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College presents many new challenges that can seem as large and looming as an 8:00 a.m. lecture hall. Appalachian Wesley Foundation is helping students center themselves through God’s mercies as they navigate college life.
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Juston Smith, Appalachian Wesley Foundation Campus Pastor
“If you ask any pastor as they begin a new season in a new place what they hope to accomplish, they will tell you they want to figure out how to get people involved,” said Juston Smith, the new Campus Pastor at Appalachian Wesley Foundation. “What I am discovering here at App Wesley is that these students are really excited to be involved. The energy found in this ministry is powerful.”
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Juston recently stepped into the Campus Pastor role, which previously had been filled since 2005 by our friend, Brad Farrington. Juston, who has served in pastoral and worship leader roles in several North Carolina congregations, is directing his passion into higher education as he carries out the mission to “make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world through campus ministry.” Appalachian Wesley Foundation welcomes students from Appalachian State University and Caldwell Community College – Watauga Campus.
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“People from local churches have asked how they can support all that is happening here,” said Juston. “I want to network with churches from around the state so that freshman students know how to find us after they leave home. I want for graduating students from App Wesley to know how to plug in to church life and ministry after they complete their time on campus.”
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“I think people from the Boone community would be moved to witness the authentic worship happening here at App Wesley,” said Juston. “These students are following God, and it is inspiring.”
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Originally from Stanley, N.C., Juston earned his bachelor’s degree from Appalachian State University in Electronic Media/Broadcasting. Following graduation, he worked as a video editor with Charlotte’s WBTV and in music ministry, as well as youth ministry. After splitting his work between a newsroom and church, he made a decision to focus full-time on ministry. Juston earned a master of divinity degree from Hood Theological Seminary and is an ordained elder with the United Methodist Church.
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In his spare time, Juston remains active through swimming and fitness. He enjoys writing, web design, and plays the piano and organ.
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Please help us welcome Juston to the Boone community as he provides spiritual leadership to the students of Appalachian Wesley Foundation.
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For more information, go to booneumc.org/lets-connect/college.
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