Northwest Nazarene University has announced the appointment of Rev. Dr. Nathan Roskam as its new University Chaplain. Roskam will begin his role in March 2026.
A two-time graduate of Northwest Nazarene University, Roskam earned his Bachelor of Arts in Public Communication in 2001 and his Master of Arts in Spiritual Formation in 2009. He later completed a Doctor of Ministry at Portland Seminary. His long-standing history with NNU includes service as Campus Ministries Coordinator within the Student Government Association, where he partnered closely with the University Chaplain to support student discipleship, oversee ministry clubs and help shape campus spiritual life.
Roskam brings more than two decades of pastoral leadership within the Church of the Nazarene, most recently serving as Lead Pastor at Lakeview Church of the Nazarene in Nampa. Throughout his ministry, he has been recognized as a relational and vision-driven leader with a deep commitment to holistic discipleship and spiritual formation, particularly among emerging adults. His leadership experience also includes nonprofit executive work, global missions engagement and community advocacy around issues of housing and serving vulnerable populations.
As University Chaplain, Roskam will provide leadership for spiritual life at NNU, cultivating environments where worship, discipleship and community life foster deep formation in students.
“Nate understands that spiritual formation is not something we simply add to the student experience. It is central to who we are as a Christ-centered university,” said NNU President Mark DeMichael. “At NNU, we care deeply about the transformation of the whole person, heart, soul, mind and strength. We want to shape women and men who love Christ first, serve others well and step into the world as His redemptive agents. Nate brings a pastoral heart, theological depth and a genuine relational warmth that will help guide our students into that kind of lifelong calling.”
DeMichael added, “This is an important and meaningful appointment for our University. Nate loves NNU, and he understands both our heritage and our future. He carries a clear vision for spiritual leadership that is Christ-centered, invitational and rooted in authentic community. I am grateful for the way his life and ministry reflect the humble, faithful leadership we seek to cultivate in our students as they pursue excellence and live boldly in mission.”
Roskam’s philosophy of Christian higher education reflects a vision in which faith and learning are inseparable, where intellectual growth and spiritual transformation develop together in community. He views teaching and leadership as pastoral acts that invite students into true belonging and Christlikeness.
Roskam and his family will transition to campus leadership in the coming months as he completes his current pastoral responsibilities.
With Roskam’s appointment, Northwest Nazarene University looks ahead with anticipation to a renewed season of spiritual vitality, intentional discipleship and Christ-centered formation for its students.
