Real Leaders. Real Impact.
It’s been encouraging to walk alongside other student pastors who understand the weight of ministry. SSM has been a steady, faithful presence when I’ve needed support.
– Jon Budd, Middletown, DE
This community has been incredibly supportive, not just in ministry but in life. If you’re looking to grow intentionally and not do ministry alone, this is the place.
– Justin Killillay, Decatur, GA
SSM has kept me connected to student ministry leaders who are passionate about shaping the next generation. The relationships have been encouraging, sharpening, and essential to staying equipped and inspired in ministry.
– Joe Merrin, Anchorage, AK
Check out a Few of our Partners:
We’re trusted by churches and organizations across the world who care deeply about the next generation.
NO TWO MINISTRIES ARE THE SAME
With over 30 years of combined experience in student ministry, we’ve dedicated our lives to equipping student pastors and ministry leaders to make a lasting impact on the next generation. Our mission is simple: Provide student pastors and ministry leaders like you with the tools, support, and resources to disciple the next generation with purpose, passion, and intentionality.
Founded BY local church leaders FOR local church leaders, Shaping Student Ministry is more than just a resource hub—we’re a growing network of pastors who share a deep commitment to seeing students thrive in their faith and volunteers be deeply developed. Whether navigating the complexities of leadership, searching for a biblical curriculum NOT written for the lowest common denominator, or looking for a community of like-minded leaders, Shaping Student Ministry is here to help.
Pastor/Co-Founder
Ian Dunaway
With nearly two decades of ministry experience, Ian helps student pastors lead with confidence, clarity, and health. As co-founder of Shaping Student Ministry, he creates practical, gospel-centered tools that meet pastors where they actually live and serve.
Ian is passionate about forming resilient pastors and ministries that last. Whether through curriculum, coaching, or community, his heart is to remind student pastors that they are not alone and their calling still matters.
Ian and his wife, Hannah, are raising two boys, Elias and Charles Haddon, and serve together at G6 Church and G6 Allies in Owasso, Oklahoma.
Pastor/Co-Founder
John Oliver
With over a decade of experience in student ministry, John helps churches disciple students with clarity, conviction, and faithfulness to God’s Word. As co-founder of Shaping Student Ministry, he brings a steady pastoral voice and a deep commitment to building ministries rooted in Scripture rather than trends.
John currently serves as Senior Pastor at FBC West Point in West Point, Mississippi, where he leads with a love for the local church and a commitment to
expositional preaching. Whether teaching, writing, or training leaders, his heart is to help students see Jesus as more glorious, the church as more beautiful, and the gospel as more urgent.
John and his wife Kristen are raising their family in Mississippi and serving faithfully together in the life of the church.