Formed at MNU
Many of his friends simply know him as “Wally,” but when Jerry Wallentine (’95) arrived at MidAmerica Nazarene University in 1991, he brought with him a deep Nazarene heritage, a football scholarship, and a willingness to immerse himself in campus life. What followed was four years filled with leadership and service — from class president to yell leader alongside his future wife, Lisa (Lesslie ’94), to singing in the collegiate quartet that traveled across the educational region on behalf of MNU.
“I think I did just about everything but basketball,” Jerry laughs.
Each role deepened his faith and sharpened his understanding that a life of purpose means putting God’s calling first. Even as a student, Jerry learned that saying yes to opportunities of service — whether on a stage, an athletic field, or in a ministry assignment — was training for a future he couldn’t yet see. MNU, he says, gave him mentors, friendships, and experiences that shaped a lifelong commitment to use his gifts for God’s kingdom.
Called to Law through Ministry
Though Jerry began as a music major before shifting to business, his path after graduation led to ministry. He served in full-time ministry for nearly a decade and planted the Nazarene church in Raymore, Missouri as the senior pastor. He is often reminded of God’s call on his life: “If you’re where I want you to be today, then you’ll be where I want you to be tomorrow,” he states.
That posture of obedience eventually opened the door to law school at the University of Kansas. There, Jerry discovered the same principles of faith and perseverance applied to his second calling. After gaining trial experience as a Johnson County public defender, he launched his own firm in 2007. Mentors, both spiritual and professional, continued to guide him as he built a practice grounded not only in skill but also in service.
Living Out His Purpose
Today, Wallentine Injury Law is recognized across Kansas City — with the familiar “You Need Jerry” ads showing up even during Chiefs football games. The firm has grown to 14 employees with offices in Olathe and Kansas City, Missouri, with a third set to open soon in Topeka. Yet, behind the branding is a lawyer who views his work as a ministry. Plus, he continues in pastoral service with the Church of the Nazarene and recently led Topeka First Church as its worship pastor for six years.
“We don’t put a sign out that says we’re a Christian law firm,” Jerry explains. “But when a client is hurting, sometimes the most important thing we can do is stop and pray with them.”
His firm helps people stand up to powerful insurance companies and find healing after an injury. Beyond his practice, Jerry and Lisa continue to invest deeply in MNU — sponsoring athletics and performing arts, hiring Pioneer graduates, and supporting campus initiatives, including the new football stadium. For Jerry, it all flows from the same source: faithfulness to God’s call.
“The law firm isn’t mine,” he says. “The profits aren’t mine. Everything is the Lord’s — to be used to build His kingdom.”
Extending a Family Legacy
Lisa and Jerry Wallentine celebrating their 30th wedding anniversary.
Jerry is proud to be an MNU alumnus and supporter, continuing the legacy he says his father began.
Growing up in intense poverty, Jerry’s father was forced to forgo his education after sixth grade, working long hours to help support his family. Despite never having the opportunity to attend MNU himself, he became one of the school’s earliest regular supporters. As a young boy with almost no money to give, his father still faithfully contributed what he could — driven by his excitement to help build the Kingdom.
That spirit of sacrifice and vision left a lasting mark. Today, Jerry is committed to carrying forward the legacy his father began and Jerry’s mother fostered, ensuring that the mission of MidAmerica continues to thrive for generations to come.
Read more profiles of purpose at mnu.edu/purposeful-lives.
