ROCKLIN, Calif. – William Jessup University, the greater Sacramento regions only private residential four year university announced that Gene De Young, Jessup’s Chief Financial Officer was recognized by the Sacramento Business Journal as the 2010 Best CFO of the year in the public-private organization category. The annual award program honors the important work that chief financial officers contribute to the region as corporate financial stewards.

 De Young oversees Jessup’s business office, including information technology, facility rentals, the bookstore and janitorial services. Prior to coming to Jessup, he held partner positions in both retail and real estate development entities as well as consulted in the financial services sector.

 “He is one of the rare people in finance who can do the ‘bean-counting’ component but also has vision and understanding of an institution’s mission,” said Bryce Jessup, who retired in May as William Jessup’s president.

 Credited with effectively steering the institution during turbulent economic times, De Young was noted for his creative strategies that enable WJU to build for the future. He has artfully led the institutions business and administrative affairs through a more than doubling of its size since the university first relocated to Rocklin in 2004.

 De Young continues to manage construction projects at the university including the campus’ five story award winning student apartment complex and plans to oversee the university’s next $10 million construction project that will include a new gym, cafeteria and residence hall.

 As a member of the university’s cabinet, he contributes to the overall leadership and management of the campus while continuing to lead and direct various planned giving and investment strategies.

 De Young was selected from more than 80 nominees to receive the award at the sold out event hosting over 500 attendees. Judges considered factors including a candidate’s career history, significant achievements, and contributions to the company, the financial community and the community as a whole.