Shane Pruitt, a 2005 graduate of Criswell College with a Bachelor of Arts in Biblical Studies, currently serves as the National Next Gen Director for the North American Mission Board (NAMB). In this role, he leads evangelism and discipleship efforts aimed at students and young adults across the United States. With over two decades of ministry experience—including roles as a church planter, lead pastor, and student pastor—Pruitt is a passionate advocate for equipping the next generation to live out their faith.
Pruitt’s journey to ministry began in his teenage years. At 16, he started attending church and prayed a prayer of salvation alongside his parents. However, it wasn’t until he was 21 that he truly understood the gospel, repented of his sins, and placed his faith in Jesus Christ. This transformative experience ignited a deep desire to share the message of salvation with others.
His time at Criswell College provided a solid theological foundation and practical ministry training. The college’s emphasis on scriptural authority and real-world application equipped Pruitt with the tools necessary for effective leadership and evangelism. He has remained connected to Criswell, participating in events such as the Next Gen Pastors’ Network Roundtable, where he engages with young pastors on ministry challenges and leadership development.
Beyond his role at NAMB, Pruitt is a sought-after speaker and author. He has written two books: 9 Common Lies Christians Believe: And Why God’s Truth Is Infinitely Better and Calling Out the Called: Discipling Those Called to Ministry Leadership. In his writings and teachings, Pruitt emphasizes the importance of recognizing and nurturing one’s calling. He states, “Students connect to stories, so share your story about how God called you into ministry.”
Pruitt and his wife, Kasi, reside in Texas with their children. Their family life, particularly their experience with adoption and raising a child with cerebral palsy, has profoundly impacted Pruitt’s faith and ministry perspective. He shares, “Besides salvation itself, there have been three major life shifts for me that have shown me different impacts of the gospel: becoming a husband, becoming a father, and becoming an adoptive father.”
Through his leadership, teaching, and personal testimony, Shane Pruitt continues to inspire and equip the next generation to live out their faith boldly. His dedication to ministry and his alma mater, Criswell College, exemplify the impact of a life committed to the gospel.
