Shane Pruitt to join Southwestern as student ministry instructor

Southern Baptist student ministry leader Shane Pruitt has been named student ministry instructor at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in the Jack D. Terry School of Educational Ministries, the seminary announced Nov. 25.

In the spring of 2025, Pruitt, who serves as National Next Gen director for the North American Mission Board, will team teach all student ministry courses virtually while Richard Ross, senior professor of student ministry, will be in person, providing support for on campus students.

“I’m incredibly honored and excited to be a part of the teaching team at Southwestern Seminary,” Pruitt said. “One of the most important tasks we have as leaders is to equip, educate, and empower current and future leaders to ‘proclaim the mighty works of God to the next generation’ (Ps. 145:5). I pray that the Lord will use me to just be a small part of encouraging students to be healthy leaders, because I believe healthy leaders are more apt to lead healthy ministries.”

Shane Pruitt joins Southwestern as student ministries instructor in the spring.

Each of the student ministry courses are available to students pursuing certificates in student ministry leadership and master’s degrees, including the Master of Divinity. Students may also audit the courses. Those interested in taking these courses still have time to complete their application and register for classes at the SWBTS website.

“Shane and I are so excited about teaching together,” Ross said. “Hopefully, I can infuse students with timeless biblical truths and principles of student ministry that have stood the test of time. Without a doubt, Shane will bring fresh thoughts and fresh approaches that will propel student ministry leaders into the future.”

While this is a somewhat unique arrangement, Chris Shirley, dean of the Jack D. Terry School of Educational Ministries, said he believes Pruitt’s experience as a national speaker, his work with NAMB, and his involvement in the Southern Baptist Convention will be of great benefit and will provide a generational connection between Pruitt and Ross, who he referred to as two of the most recognizable names in student ministry from the past and present.

Shirley said this is a case of “the best of generations coming together for the sake of giving the best training to our students,” adding that Southwestern is always looking towards the future of student ministry, with the goal of recognizing the next generation of leaders in that field who Southwestern can help learn, grow, and then themselves instruct others.

Southwestern was the first seminary to offer instruction in student ministry and has continued to provide that training without interruption since 1949.

Pruitt lives in Texas with his wife, Kasi, and their five children. He has been involved in a variety of ministries for over 20 years, including church planter, lead pastor, student pastor, author, and speaker. He is also one of the hosts of The Gensend Podcast. He will continue in his role with NAMB.