Fuller Appoints Lauren Yamaoka and Dasha Thomas to Key Leadership Roles

Pasadena-based Fuller Seminary and the Fuller Foundation announced the appointment of two new administrative leaders, Lauren Yamaoka and Dasha Thomas, effective January 1, 2024. This move reaffirms Fuller’s commitment to women in leadership roles, the Seminary said.

Lauren Yamaoka, the new senior vice president of advancement, will be responsible for strengthening development efforts, foundation relationships, and alumni affairs. She succeeds Ken Erffmeyer, who completed his service as senior vice president this past summer.

Dasha Thomas has been appointed as the new chief development officer. Her role includes supporting the seminary president’s development efforts, stewarding principal donors, and growing the planned giving program.

Bob Ceremsak, chairman and interim executive director of The Fuller Foundation, expressed confidence in the direction that Lauren and Dasha will provide to help donors further invest in Fuller Theological Seminary’s programs for students and learners.

Fuller Seminary has a long history of welcoming women equally into all its programs. In 1966, Fuller invited women into every one of its degree programs out of a conviction that women are equally called to ministry. The Fuller Foundation, a faithful partner to Fuller Seminary since 1987, is excited to support Fuller’s commitment to women in leadership through these two new appointments.

Jody Vanderwel, a member of The Fuller Foundation Board of Directors and a trustee for Fuller Theological Seminary, chaired the Search Committee. She praised Lauren Yamaoka and Dasha Thomas as skilled leaders who have added tremendous value to various institutions and to The Fuller Foundation.