Vanguard University

Brenton Fessler ’02, DTM, an ordained minister with the Assemblies of God, serves as the pastor of formation and administration and brings nearly 25 years of hands-on ministry experience to his relationships with Vanguard students, staff, and faculty. As the founding pastor of RefugeOC in Orange, he focuses on reaching college students and young families. Brenton is passionate about helping the next generation engage with Scripture with clarity and conviction. He earned his undergraduate degree in pastoral leadership from Vanguard, a master's in theology from Fuller Theological Seminary, and a Doctor of Theological Ministry from Northern Seminary.

How did Vanguard shape you into who you are now?
Vanguard formed me in ways I didn’t fully understand until much later. It wasn’t just the classroom learning, though I’m deeply grateful for the biblical and theological foundation I received. It was the environment: faculty who knew my name, and mentors who challenged me to step into leadership before I felt ready. 

This was a place where calling was not just talked about: it was cultivated. I learned how to think deeply about Scripture, how to serve with humility, and how to see ministry not as a stage but as a way of life. My worldview was shaped here. My sense of belonging in the Kingdom took root here. Vanguard didn’t just educate me—it formed me as a disciple and as a pastor. 

My friendships from Vanguard became lifelong, including my wife (Rachel ’01), groomsmen in my wedding, professors I still seek out for wisdom and counsel, and friends I continue to reach out to for big life moments and prayer. 
 
How has campus changed from when you were a student? 
The biggest change: buildings. Catalina Hall was just opening when I was leaving, and my classmates never had access to the Heath Academic Building, or the Waugh Student Center, or the Freed Center for Leadership. 

Next biggest change: people. Some staff and faculty are still around from my era, but I’m also encouraged by so many new faces and stories that are helping to shape Vanguard into its future. There is also a greater awareness of student support systems and formation pathways than when I first showed up. 

Yet what has not changed is the heart. Vanguard still feels like a community that cares. Faculty still know students by name. The campus still feels warm, relational, and centered on Christ. 

What excites you about Vanguard?
What excites me most is the hunger I see in students today. Even in a world of distraction, uncertainty, and noise, there is a deep longing to encounter God, to live with purpose, and to join God’s mission in the world. 

As a member of the campus pastoral team, I get to watch formation happen in real time—students rediscovering prayer, finding community, wrestling with Scripture, discerning calling, serving the city, and stepping into leadership that blesses the world. I’m excited because Vanguard is still a place where God is shaping the next generation of pastors, teachers, artists, leaders, and innovators with a vision for the Kingdom. 

As I often say, 55 Fair Drive in Costa Mesa is holy ground. And I’m grateful to be standing here again—this time on the other side of the journey—walking with students the same way others once walked with me.