FaithSearch Partners is pleased to announce that its client, Northwest University, has appointed Dr. Jeremy Johnson as its next President, effective August 18th. Northwest University (NU) is a regionally accredited Christian university located in Kirkland, Washington. With a commitment to academic excellence, spiritual vitality, and cultural engagement, NU offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs designed to prepare students to pursue their passions with excellence and a deep sense of purpose.
“As a proud Northwest University alum, I am truly honored and excited to return to my alma mater to serve as its next leader,” said Dr. Johnson. “NU played a pivotal role in launching my ministry career, and this is a profound full-circle experience that I’m truly honored to embrace. This is more than a position—it’s a calling. With Jesus at the center of all we do, I’m committed to leading NU into a future where we will equip the next generation to think with clarity, serve with compassion, and lead with courage—carrying the call of Jesus around the world.”
Dr. Johnson is an experienced pastor, church, and community leader, bringing more than 15 years of experience in executive leadership at complex organizations. He is known for revitalizing mission-driven, faith-based organizations through visionary leadership, intentional culture-building, and a deep commitment to community service, including the development of strong, collaborative partnerships.
Most recently, Dr. Johnson served as the lead pastor for 13 years at North Point Church in Springfield, MO, overseeing ministry operations, staff development and strategic initiatives. Concurrently, he served as an executive leader for Springfield Dream Center, a nonprofit community hub, that he helped launch in 2017 to bring vital resources to one of the city’s most underserved neighborhoods.
Dr. Johnson began his educational pursuits at Northwest University, earning a bachelors in church ministries and later completing a doctoral degree in organizational leadership from Southeastern University.
Jacqueline Gustafson, VP of Higher Education with FaithSearch Partners, shared “Dr. Johnson was recommended by the Presidential Search Committee from a very strong group of candidates, following an extensive national search. An energetic and innovative leader with proven grit, Dr. Johnson returns home to his roots to guide the university into a bold new era of growth and transformation. His passion for excellence and deep connection to the community will inspire students, faculty, and alumni alike.”
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Founded in 2007, FaithSearch Partners is a premier executive search firm in the U.S. focusing exclusively on serving faith-based educational institutions, healthcare organizations, nonprofits, ministries, and faith-oriented businesses. Based in Dallas with locations in Houston, Los Angeles, Atlanta, Nashville, Birmingham, Durango, Redding, and Rochester, FaithSearch is able to serve faith-based clients in all regions.
