Olivet Nazarene University announced the appointment of Ryan Green as the university’s new chaplain on 3 September 2025. Green brings extensive pastoral leadership experience, military service background, and a passionate commitment to spiritual formation that aligns with Olivet’s mission to provide a Christ-centered education.
Green comes to Olivet with 17 years of local church ministry experience, most recently serving as lead pastor of City First Church in Eugene, Oregon, for the past eight years. Under his leadership, the church experienced significant transformation characterized by multicultural worship, unity across generational and economic lines, and innovative discipleship initiatives.
A visionary servant leader known for his infectious energy and clear vision, Green is passionate about making disciples who are immersed in God’s presence and committed to following Jesus’ teachings. His ministry experience includes developing in-depth leadership initiatives, creating comprehensive discipleship systems, and leading city-wide initiatives designed to reflect Jesus in everyday life.
Before entering vocational ministry, Green served six years in the United States Navy, bringing valuable leadership experience to his pastoral calling. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Ministry with double majors in Bible & Theology and Pastoral Ministry from Nazarene Bible College, as well as a Master of Divinity from Portland Seminary.
Green is deeply committed to helping young adults encounter and abide in the presence of Jesus, be transformed through that relationship, and be empowered by the Holy Spirit to live out their callings with what he describes as “risky faith, bold courage, and contagious joy.”
“I am honored to join the Olivet community and contribute to the spiritual formation of these incredible young adults,” said Green. “My prayer is that together we will create an environment where students can deeply encounter Jesus, be transformed by his presence, and discover how to make a meaningful difference in this world.”