Turlock Citizen of the Year Shirley M. Pok has been named the new Vice President for Advancement at California State University, Stanislaus.
Previously serving more than 12 years as Vice President of Development at Emanuel Medical Center in Turlock, Pok led a team of employees and volunteers who raised $22 million for critical services and facilities.
Recently, the Turlock Chamber of Commerce honored Pok as Citizen of the Year. The Yosemite Chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals also named her Outstanding Fundraiser of the Year in 2012.
Having worked previously at CSU Stanislaus as a Director of Development from 1998 to 2000, many faculty members at the university are excited to have Pok rejoin the campus community.
“I am thrilled that Shirley Pok is rejoining us at CSU Stanislaus,” said CSU Stanislaus Interim President Joesph Sheley. “She brings a deep understanding of the Stanislaus community and a history of excellent relationships in our region. Shirley will be a true asset in building and strengthening our partnerships with businesses, groups and individuals.”
Pok also expressed excitement about returning to CSU Stanislaus.
“CSU Stanislaus attracted me to Turlock nearly 15 years ago, and I never lost my connection to the campus,” said Pok. “I am very excited to work with President Sheley, as I have already developed a profound respect for his strong involvement in the community.”
Pok began her fundraising career at Fresno State University in 1982, spending17 years as an assistant to the executive director of the Bulldog Foundation. During that time she helped develop the foundation into one of the nation’s largest in terms of athletic fund development by a group of volunteers.
As the Vice President of Advancement at CSU Stanislaus, Pok will oversee a team of professionals who are dedicated to fundraising and external relations functions, including development, alumni relations, communications, and public affairs.
For more information, please visit www.csustan.edu/universityadvancement.
