Campus Ministry- Brandon Cheeks

Background…

Brandon Cheeks is a Kansas Wesleyan University graduate who married his college sweetheart, Rolita Cheeks. They have six children. He is an elementary school principal at Sunset Elementary and an assistant Pastor at St. John’s Missionary Baptist Church in Salina. He also serves as the Community Outreach Coordinator. He helps plan and implement campus ministry opportunities for students.

“It’s a privilege to pour into the lives of young people, both in the church and on the college campus.”

How did you get involved in Campus Ministry?

“I first became involved by speaking at FCA (Fellowship of Christian Athletes) and MNL (Monday Night Live) events. Some college students expressed a desire to attend church services, so I began transporting them to church on Sundays. Over time, my involvement grew into a more dedicated role, especially in supporting students at Sunset Elementary.” 

What is your mission?

“The mission that I have, is to build up believers and connect them with the community while helping them grow in their faith and relationship with Christ. My aim is to make disciples who will go out and spread the message of Christ in their communities. As Matthew 28:19-20 says ‘Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you.'” 

How has your faith grown since joining Campus Ministry?

“My faith has grown tremendously through the relationships I’ve built with students, staff, and others involved in campus ministry. Seeing students take ownership of their faith and grow spiritually has deepened my trust in God’s work. I’m reminded daily that we can do nothing apart from Christ.” 

What inspired you to serve in Campus Ministry? 

“I’ve always had a heart for young people and a passion for seeing them come to know Christ and grow in their relationship with Him. I feel called to serve in campus ministry because I believe this is a critical time in their lives when they’re making decisions that will impact their future and their walk with God.”

A memorable experience that deepened your faith on campus?

“One powerful moment was during MNL, and I felt the holy spirit moving. I have experienced some great worship experiences during praise and worship. We also have had some amazing experiences with many speakers who have had powerful messages.”

A testimony or life that has been changed through your ministry?

“I recall one student who had been attending campus events, but their life seemed disconnected from what they were learning. After a few months of meeting regularly, this student gave their life to Christ during a prayer time. They shared how they finally understood God’s unconditional love for them. The student stated that they were going to focus on improving relationship with Christ. It was a powerful reminder that, as 2 Corinthians 5:17 says, “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has passed away, behold, the new has come.” I have also seen many students come to church and give their life to Christ.”

What are hopes & goals for the future of Campus Ministry?

“My hope is that the campus ministry will continue to grow, reaching more students and providing them with opportunities to deepen their faith. I always aim for students to develop a strong spiritual foundation and to represent Christ in all they do, as Colossians 3:23 encourages us, “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.”

Upcoming events/ projects…

“I’m looking forward to the final MNL of the semester and praying that the Lord will continue to open doors for more opportunities on campus. I trust that He has great plans ahead, as Jeremiah 29:11 reminds us: “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.”

For more about Brandon Cheeks click here.

For more Campus Ministry Spotlights click here or here.