Alan Cooke
Executive Director
Life-long Learner | African Heart

I first fell in love with Africa and Daystar University in 1996. My dad invited me to come along on the trip, and even offered to pay the airfare – thanks dad! I currently serve with great co-workers in the Daystar U.S. office and at Daystar University.  I am very grateful to God and those around me.

I am married to my best friend, Sheila, and we have been blessed with six children. 

Favorite cupcake: Carrot cake

Favorite Book: Ben Hur

Current Life Verse:  "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding.  In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths." Proverbs 3:5-6

Mailou Her
Executive Assistant and Scholarship Coordinator
Creative | Photo Storyteller

I enjoy traveling and hiking with my husband, Stanley. Exploring and seeing more of His beautiful creation is a joy of mine. My husband is a big foodie and I enjoy trying out new foods with him but nothing beats eating PHO! Outside of the office, I enjoy growing in my photography.

Favorite fruit: Mangoes

Favorite books to read: Poetry

Nancy DeCamp
Finance Manager
Creativity Extraordinaire | Analytical Sherlock Holmes

I moved to DC and worked in an office furniture dealership for 12 years. I was privileged to see the insides of many buildings and offices not open to the general public and gain a better understanding of the history of our country firsthand. I've been back in Minnesota for over 20 years and have honed my accounting skills in many industries including manufacturing, radio, marketing, computer, and nonprofit. 

My dream was to find a Christian, nonprofit organization that I could call my home and Daystar U.S. has answered that prayer. In the nearly seven years I have worked for this organization the students and faculty at Daystar University have touched my heart and I feel bless to be a part of this great organization.

Favorite cake: Ice cream cake

Favorite book: God is an Englishman

Liz Otu
Administrative and Scheduling Coordinator
Tender-hearted | Brave

From a young age I have had a fascination with other cultures. My parents would say that if ever I couldn’t be found at a gathering to look for the more culturally diverse people in the room and I would be with them. Along the way I developed a more specific love for Africa. This was further deepened when I had the chance to live in Ghana for 2 years and experience the culture from the inside. I’m excited to be part of an organization that furthers the cause of Christ by raising up leaders in Africa to bring about change in their nations, from within.

Personal Hero: Elisabeth Elliot

Favorite Fruit: Pineapple

Favorite Bible Verse: “But He said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you. For my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses so that the power of Christ may rest upon me.”
2 Corinthians 12:9, ESV