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“The search committee has worked diligently over the last several months considering numerous candidates for this critical position in the life of the University. The large number of highly qualified applicants submitted positively reflects on the reputation, integrity and missional focus of our institution,” said Dr. Daniel Martin, MVNU president.

Peterson currently serves as senior pastor at Mission Valley Church of the Nazarene in San Diego, Calif. A native of Dallas, Texas, Peterson earned his B.S. in history and Christian education from Southern Nazarene University (Bethany, Okla.) and an M.A. in theological studies from Trevecca Nazarene University (Nashville, Tenn.).

Roles & Responsibilities
As chaplain, Peterson will be responsible for developing, directing and supporting MVNU’s spiritual formation efforts. This includes leading Campus Ministries staff in a variety of programs, speaking in chapel, planning for and working with chapel guest speakers, providing pastoral care and guidance to the entire campus community, counseling students and others in crisis or bereavement times, and partnering with Academic Affairs to enhance students’ character development.

Experienced Service
He brings 18 years of pastoral experience to this role in Churches of the Nazarene as senior high pastor and associate pastor of young adults at College Church in Olathe, Kansas; minister to youth at Nashville First; and minister of youth and families at Houston First. Peterson has served in a variety of leadership roles with Nazarene Youth International; has directed youth camps and missions’ trips; and has been a special speaker at numerous retreats, camps, and conventions.

Dr. Fred Fullerton, consultant to the University in the chaplain’s search, stated, “Scott is a positive, forward-looking, relationally oriented leader. I believe he can step into the University chaplain assignment with ease and grace and establish himself as a person of relevant influence in the life of the MVNU community.”

Journey to MVNU
Peterson, his wife Katie and sons Cody (14) and Zachary (11) plan to move to Mount Vernon this summer. “Following God’s call in my life has been an adventure for my entire family,” Peterson said. “We’ve benefitted from the experiences and relationships that have challenged us and allowed us to grow. During this time we’ve been able to look back and see very clearly God’s hand at work in our lives.”

When asked about the opportunity to serve as MVNU chaplain, Peterson commented, “We are excited to be a part of the MVNU community. It’s a school with a great history and bright future. We believe that God has great things in store for all of us as we journey together.”

To learn more about MVNU or Campus Ministries, call (740) 397-9000, ext. 4341.