Name: Jeffery Portmann
Graduation Year: 2016
Major: D. Min.
Current Position: Church Multiplication Director for AG USA
City and State: Springfield, MO
Tell us about your career and what you do now.
My wife, Joanne, and I served as youth pastors for 10 years in the northwest region of the US. We then served the Northwest Ministry Network as network youth directors for 10 years and then transitioned to become church planting directors for two years. In 2014 we planted newhope, a multi-site church with five campuses located in the Puget Sound region. I now have the privilege of serving as the director of the Church Multiplication Network. Our vision is to have a healthy spiritually and numerically growing church in every community.
What is your favorite memory from AGTS?
My favorite memory from my AGTS journey was our class visit to England, which included some time at Oxford. The relationships built throughout my cohort’s time together is a gift I cherish.
How did AGTS help you identify/develop your calling?
Like many, I aspire to be a life-long learner and AGTS exposed me to people, principles, and processes that strengthened my faith in Christ as well as my ability to lead and equip others in their ministries.
How did your experience at AGTS prepare you for life after graduation?
The practical nature of our classes allowed for real-time application which fostered growth while in class and continued fruit following graduation.
What advice would you give a current student preparing for the workforce?
Surround yourself with people who love Jesus, have a burden for lost people and are committed to ongoing development.
What would you look for if you were in a position to hire new graduates from AGTS?
I hire people who have a clear sense of their divine design, understand team ministry and are willing to work their tails off!