Jake Secrist is Monmouth College's new director of development and legacy giving
Monmouth, IL (08/13/2026) — A Billtown Bomber with a diverse resume has joined the staff of Monmouth College as its director of development and legacy giving.
Jake Secrist, a graduate of Williamsfield High School, started his position on Aug. 3.
"I'm looking forward to continuing the good work that's been done by this group," said Secrist of a development department that raised more than $11 million during the last fiscal year. "Estate planning will be a big part of my role, and I'll also be working with alumni from the west coast and Illinois."
Secrist comes to Monmouth after more than three years in a related role at Knox College, where he served as a major gift officer.
Secrist began his college journey in Galesburg at Carl Sandburg before earning a religious studies degree, cum laude, at Arizona State University, as he considered a possible path toward law school.
Prior to Knox, Secrist worked in sales and marketing for Mid-Century Communications. Some of his other professional stints have included working as a finance manager at a car dealership, driving a Pepsi truck and a diesel truck, and working at an auction house.
"I've known about Monmouth for a long time, as my best buddy, Kyle Gibbs ('06) came here, so I've been to campus several times before," said Secrist. "This opportunity was too good to pass up, as I've seen firsthand the value of a Monmouth education."
"We're excited to welcome Jake to Monmouth and to our development team," said Hannah Maher, the college's vice president for development and college relations. "He brings a genuine passion for development work and a strong appreciation for the kind of personal, transformative experience a place like Monmouth provides. I know he will serve the college well by building meaningful relationships with our alumni and donors and connecting their interests with opportunities to make an impact here."
Media Attachments
JAKE SECRIST: The new staff member was educated nearby at Williamsfield High School and Carl Sandburg College before earning his bachelor's degree at Arizona State University.
Monmouth College
Barry McNamara 309-457-2117, mcnamara@monmouthcollege.eduShare this Story
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