ROCKLIN, CA — Jessup University Athletics is proud to announce the hiring of Laura Gustafson as the new Head Coach for the Cross Country and Track & Field programs. Gustafson, a seasoned coach with a mission-driven approach to athlete development, brings over seven years of experience at NCAA Division II and NAIA institutions. Her background is highlighted by a commitment to the holistic growth of student-athletes in faith, character, and competitive excellence.

"We are thrilled to welcome Laura Gustafson to the Jessup Athletics family," said Farnum Smith, Senior Associate Athletic Director and Sport Administrator over Cross Country and Track and Field. "Laura's coaching philosophy aligns perfectly with our university's core mission. She is a proven leader with a strong record of developing successful athletes both on and off the track. Her commitment to mentorship and discipleship, combined with her extensive administrative and coaching expertise, makes her the ideal person to lead our programs into the future."

Gustafson joins the Warriors after serving as the Assistant Track & Field Coach and Director of Operations at Trevecca Nazarene University. During her three seasons at Trevecca, she guided athletes in sprints, jumps, hurdles, and multi-events to numerous achievements, including multiple NCAA provisional qualifying marks, conference championships, and over 20 school records. Her resume also includes coaching roles at Menlo College, Colorado Christian University, and the University of South Dakota, where she earned a Master of Arts in Sport Management.

Regarding her path to becoming a head coach, Gustafson commented, "I've been lucky enough to work for several head coaches who gave me the opportunity to fail and gave me the guidance to get back on track. I have also had the fortune to be a part of programs that demonstrated both the pursuit of high performance and spiritual formation working in concert. Particularly in my most recent role at Trevecca, I juggled the day-to-day administrative tasks with event group training and recruiting, and managing the facility needs of a program that did not have their own—preparing me uniquely to take over a program like Jessup's."

A former collegiate student-athlete herself, Gustafson is deeply passionate about the spiritual dimension of coaching, viewing it as a "ministry" to model Christlike leadership and instill purpose. Her experience is fortified by a comprehensive approach to athlete development, including certifications as a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) and USATF Level 1. Her administrative skills, which include managing travel logistics, overseeing budgets, and ensuring compliance, are a perfect match for the operational needs of the head coach position.

"I am honored and excited to join Jessup University and lead the Cross Country and Track & Field programs," said Gustafson. "Jessup's emphasis on whole person development and community excited me, as well as the potential Jessup has to become a real powerhouse in athletics. The university's dedication to integrating faith with athletic and academic achievement deeply resonates with me. I look forward to building on the foundation of this program and walking alongside our student-athletes as they strive for excellence and prepare to impact the world for Christ."

Looking ahead to the season, Gustafson added, "I am most looking forward to launching the first NCAA DII campaign with the track & field program. The program has several athletes that have the ability to make a statement and make the national list in this first year of post-season qualification, and I am excited to watch and participate in the whole team's progress and growth! I am also excited to start new traditions as we step forward into a new era while honoring the things that have worked well and made Jessup Cross Country and Track & Field what it is today."

Gustafson will begin her duties immediately, preparing the teams for the upcoming season. Jessup University is a member of the National Collegiate Athletics Association (NCAA) Division II and the PacWest Conference. For additional information regarding Jessup Athletics, visit www.jessupathletics.com; visit www.jessup.edu for more information on Jessup University. Follow Jessup Athletics on social media: Jessup University Athletics (Facebook) and @JessupAthletics (Instagram & X).