Josh Samarco

Biography

I am originally from Ypsilanti, MI. (Two hours east of Grand Rapids) I am one of five siblings. A huge part of my story is overcoming adversity, trauma, and mental health struggles. I am a first-generation student, one of the first in my family to go to college and finish college. I obtained a Bachelor of Arts in 2010 from the University of Pikeville and a Master of Arts in Ministerial Leadership from Wesley Seminary in 2017.

In college, I was fortunate to play basketball. At the University of Pikeville, I was an All-American. I once scored 41 points in a game to upset our rival, Georgetown. I hold the record for most three-pointers in a game with eight and most in a season with 99. In 2019, I was inducted into the UPike Hall of Fame. Great times!

Before joining the staff at Calvin, I spent 11 years serving in pastoral ministry, primarily youth and family ministry. I have worked with, served alongside, and spoken to thousands of teens and families.

When I am not at Calvin, I am somewhere planning a trip with friends, exploring the world’s best coffee, trying to master latte art at home, hanging with my daughter, Adeline, and spending time with my lovely bride, Jasmine, of ten years.

Lastly, in the fall of 2021, I launched Merch That Matters to remind people that their lives and stories matter. You and I can use our stories to impact others on the path God has set for us. I am currently working on finishing my first book, hoping to launch in 2025.