This year, Walla Walla University is sending out 39 student missionaries (SMs) to serve around the world. Though in recent years the number has hovered around 30, this is the largest group to serve since the pandemic.

These SMs will be traveling all over the world to serve in a variety of ways. The SMs come from across campus—sophomores through graduates—representing a wide variety of majors, from theology and education to nursing, engineering, and more.

“Some years are sowing years, some years are reaping years. It’s a reaping year,” said Andrea Keele, associate chaplain for missions. Many students have been considering service for some time and felt this was the time to answer the Holy Spirit’s call.

Keele believes another factor of this year’s influx may be the return of previous SMs to campus. As they share their experiences and engage in conversations with prospective SMs, interest and confidence in their ability to serve grows.

The Student Missions team also works hard to share numerous mission opportunities and follow up with all of those who express interest. Keele said, “The goal of student missions is to give students the opportunity to share life and God’s love in practical ways in communities around the world and hopefully grow spiritually and personally along the way.”

Assignments this year range from nearby communities in Oregon, Washington, and Hawaii to placements abroad in South Korea, Micronesia, and parts of Africa. No matter the calling, wherever they may go, SMs are supported by the WWU community. To learn more about becoming a student missionary or supporting a current missionary, go to wallawalla.edu/student-missions.

Posted Oct. 8, 2025.