Graduation Year: 1993
Major: Bible
Current Position: TEAM USA Olympic Chaplain
City and State: Powder Springs, GA
Asif Shaikh serves as an Olympic chaplain, ministering to athletes on the world’s largest stages, including the Games in London, Rio, Paris, Sochi, and South Korea. He has also been chaplain for various athletic world championships, Pan American Games, and a FIFA World Cup.
Shaikh was born in Pakistan and came to faith in Christ at age 11. He kept his conversion private until 18, when he told his father and shared his desire to attend Central Bible College to prepare for ministry.
After graduating from CBC in 1993, Shaikh spent 15 years with CRU and Athletes in Action, ministering to college students at the University of South Florida, University of Tampa, and St. Petersburg College.
His chaplaincy work continues to expand, including opportunities at University of Florida and with professional sports teams of Atlanta, Team USA Soccer, USA Track & Field and a unique weekly chapel service via Zoom for WWE (World Wrestling Entertainment).
He and his wife, Leaha, have been married 25 years and have two daughters. One at Vanderbilt University and another in PA School at South College, both in Nashville. They live near Atlanta, GA.
Asif Shaikh still looks back on his years at Central Bible College with deep gratitude and fond memories. His time on campus shaped not only his faith but also his friendships, leadership, and calling. Reflecting on those formative years, he shared some of the moments and lessons that continue to impact his life today:
“One of my favorite memories from my time at Central Bible College was when Pastor Tim Delena came to speak during Spiritual Emphasis Week. He brought a level of fire and revival that our school wasn’t used to—his message broke barriers of race and diversity and stirred something new in all of us. That week marked a real spiritual turning point on campus and in my own life.
During my time at CBC, I had the privilege of learning under professors who truly cared—not just about what we knew, but who we were becoming. Forrest Arnold, in particular, had a lasting impact on me. He wasn’t just a professor; he was an encourager and mentor. In his Social Dynamics for Men class, he pushed us to grow in character and in how we related to others. He didn’t just teach for a grade—he taught for life change.
The friendships I built at CBC have stood the test of time. I think of lifelong friends like Brad Keller, Brad Rosenberg, and of course, the one and only Mark Batterson. Since I was from Washington, D.C., it was special that both Mark and Brad ended up taking pastoral roles there after college. Our twenties were full of ministry, laughter, and watching God grow their churches and our faith together.
Looking back, I’d tell current students preparing for the workforce: don’t hide from confrontation. If something’s bothering you, go directly to the person or your supervisor and talk it through. Holding things in only breeds resentment. Communication, honesty, and humility go a long way in any career—or calling.
And if I were hiring a new graduate today, I’d look for someone who’s F.A.T.—Faithful, Available, and Teachable. This generation sometimes struggles with that last one, but being teachable is key. A teachable person can grow, adapt, and rise to any challenge. When someone is open to learning and willing to put in the effort, they’ll do whatever it takes to help fulfill the mission of any team or organization.”