MEET THE TEAM
Our office in Bloomington, Minnesota is passionate about its mission to build relationships with Daystar supporters in the U.S.and for Daystar University to advance the education of Christ-centered servant-leaders to transform Africa and the world.
Alan Cooke
CEO
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
Allison Ayapantecatl
Quickbooks Expert
Math Geek | Amateur Artist
I left the corporate world to build my own bookkeeping firm when my 3rd child was born and have enjoyed building relationships and learning about the many small businesses and organizations that I have come to serve. I enjoy supporting Daystar US in their mission and being a part of educating future generations.
My husband, Alberto, and I have been blessed with 5 children, and our favorite activities are going to the movies and attending concerts.
Favorite dessert: Apple pie
Favorite book: The Giver (Quartet)
Jan Korbel
Communication and Admin Coordinator
Hospitality Artisan | Cultural Learner
I lived and ministered in Nairobi in the mid-1990s for 4 years, then in 2009 I got a chance to go back to Nairobi with Daystar U.S. My job at the time was to help out with communication between the Daystar U.S. office and all the departments at Daystar University that we assist. During the following two years I assisted with visiting donors, scholars, and students to Daystar. I sat on the financial aid committee. I fielded questions from those who were preparing to come without any concept of living in East Africa. I made sure guest rooms were ready, and organized transportation for our visitors. I helped with the cultural preparation of the second Afrizo team. When I returned to the US in 2011 I traveled with the next Afrizo team, staying with and meeting many of our donors. It was another cultural thrill to see the America through the eyes of our Daystar students, and meet so many faithful supporters of Daystar University.
Now I return, not to Nairobi, but to Daystar U.S. to help out in the office. It’s so incredibly gratifying to know I am again helping to strengthen the future of Africa through its most valuable resource: bright African students.
Favorite cake: Deep Dark Chocolate
Favorite current verse: The Lord your God is in your midst, a mighty one who will save; he will rejoice over you with gladness; he will quiet you by his love; he will exult over you with loud singing. Zephaniah 3:17