After serving faithfully for 23-½ years as our Capital Campaign Director, Jackie Phillips has not only raised millions of dollars for vital projects but has also touched countless lives with her genuine compassion and unwavering faith. We are pleased to celebrate her remarkable ministry and the profound impact she has made on our conference.
A Calling to Serve
When Jackie learned about the opportunity to work with our conference, she was already an experienced fundraiser with a passion for Christian education. The scope of her role—supporting Camp Wawona, growing the education endowment, and helping renovate Soquel Camp Meeting—aligned perfectly with her personal interests.
“I love education,” Jackie said. “My dad was a youth director, and I started working at camp when I was 14. I knew this was the work God was calling me to do.”
Highlights of Her Ministry
Jackie names the completion of Camp Wawona’s road as one of her proudest achievements, believing it was essential for launching the master plan for further development. She also treasures the recreation field project at Soquel, envisioning children and families enjoying a safe, fun place to play.
Making Christian education accessible has always been close to her heart. Through scholarships and endowments, she has helped countless students attend our schools. “I love that we can help kids go to our schools,” she said. “That’s near and dear to my heart.”
Beyond financial gifts, Jackie formed meaningful friendships with donors, often meeting them in their homes and ministering to them in a deeper way. “It’s about matching each donor’s passion with God’s plan,” she explained. “You learn a lot when you truly listen to people’s stories.”
Over the years, Jackie estimates she has helped raise about $26 million. While much of that supported the capital campaign, a significant portion also benefited local schools and other conference projects.
A Joyful Journey
Jackie’s greatest joy has come from the personal relationships she built along the way. “Each donor has become my friend,” she said. “I have wonderful memories of playing games, going on walks, and sharing quality time with so many people. Seeing how God moves in their hearts is amazing.”
A Faith-filled Next Step
Jackie’s decision to retire stems from her desire to focus on her health and spend more time with family. She has been living with cancer for six years and feels this is the right time to slow down and focus on what matters most.
“I’m at retirement age,” she said. “I want to exercise, focus on my health, and enjoy my husband, children, and grandchildren.” Jackie and her husband, Richard, also plan to volunteer in whatever ways they can, including helping build picnic tables for Soquel. “I’m not going too far, so I hope to visit often!”
Words of Gratitude and Hope
As she reflects on her years of service, Jackie is filled with gratitude. “I’ve had a wonderful experience in this conference,” she said. “I love my colleagues. It has never been anything but a joy.”
We are profoundly thankful for Capital Campaign Director Jackie Phillips—for her tireless efforts, generous spirit, and the lasting impact she has had on our conference family. May God continue to bless her with good health, joyful family moments, and new adventures in this season of rest and renewal.
Thank you, Jackie, for your faithful ministry and for paving the way for the next generation.
Written by Justin Kim
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