Founded in Fall 2016, Occupy Missouri State University began as an extension of a praise dance ministry originally known as God’s Chosen, founded in 2009 by Ebony Brown. In 2016, God’s Chosen—later renamed His Legacy Ministries—joined forces with Global Pastor Antwan J. Eaves and the praise dance president at the time to bring campus services to Missouri State under the name Occupy. While His Legacy Ministries and God’s Chosen did not hold traditional services, they powerfully ministered through praise dance at functions, events, and worship gatherings. Occupy marked the shift to hosting regular on-campus services, eventually becoming the name of the entire ministry.
In 2022, Occupy experienced major staff transitions due to the planting of new Texas campuses, coupled with health challenges and ministry restructuring, leading to a temporary pause in activity at Missouri State. Now, after a brief hiatus, we are returning stronger than ever with renewed passion and vision.
Our mission is simple yet powerful: to equip students in their purpose, help them discover their identity, and immerse them in an environment where they can experience the authentic presence of God.
We meet bi-weekly Monday nights at 8:00 PM in the Plaster Student Union. Every gathering features dynamic worship, a relevant word, and a life-changing atmosphere. Beyond services, we are committed to serving and building community through regular outreach events where we feed students, social activities to strengthen bonds, and opportunities to grow through retreats, conferences, and workshops.
Leadership
Pastor Trevor L. Clayton—one of Occupy Missouri State’s original founders—serves as Campus Pastor, alongside his wife, Allyssa Clayton, who serves as the Occupy Logistics Director. Together, they are passionate about fostering an environment where every student can thrive spiritually, emotionally, and socially.
Looking Ahead
Our vision for the next year is to make Occupy Missouri State an equipping place for every student on campus to encounter God in a powerful way. We want students to leave our gatherings feeling refreshed, inspired, and ready to take on the world for the sake of the gospel.