If you have called or visited the Mission Office recently, you have most likely become acquainted with the smile and pleasant personality of our newest employee, Audrey Garrison. The front desk can occasionally be the hub of a flurry of activity, yet she has done a great job of warmly greeting and assisting those she encounters.

So let’s get to know her a little better!

Tell us how and when you came to the Mission Office and what your role is.

When I was dating my now-husband, I learned about BBFI and the Missions Organization through his father Brian. I thought this would be an awesome place to work because I would be able to use what I have learned and pursue my desire to serve in missions by working alongside missionaries. 

As my graduation from College of the Ozarks approached, Brian told me that the Office was hiring a receptionist. I applied, interviewed, and was offered the position. I joined the Mission Office in February of this year. As the receptionist, I greet guests, direct incoming calls to the appropriate office personnel, update missionary records, coordinate apartment reservations, and apply Accounts Receivable payments. 

Tell us about your family and your connection to missions.

My family lives in the small town of Eminence, Missouri. I have an older brother (24) and a younger sister (19). We were raised by my wonderful, hardworking father. My brother works for the Park Service and my sister is currently in nursing school. Since marrying Chandler Garrison, I now have a father-in-law, mother-in-law, brother-in-law, two sisters-in-law, and a nephew. We have an even larger extended family. I love all of them dearly. 

Since Eminence was so small, there was not an abundance of missionaries that would come into town. The most prominent memory of missions from my childhood was from the pastor of my hometown church. He and his wife were missionaries to Malawi and frequently shared stories about their time there. 

Fast forward to graduating high school, moving to College of the Ozarks, and dating Chandler, I quickly learned much more about missions as his family is one full of missionaries and those who work in ministry. Through his family, I became more connected to missions.

What did you do before coming to work at the Mission Office?

Before coming to the Mission Office, I was a student at College of the Ozarks until December of 2022 when I graduated with my bachelor’s degree in Biblical and Theological Studies. While at C of O, I worked in the Keeter Center, Lyons Memorial Library, and the Dean of Students Office.  

Tell us about the most thrilling adventure you have ever been on.

If you ask anyone close to me, they will tell you I am not much of a thrill seeker, but do love a good adventure. I would have to say that the most thrilling adventure I have ever been on is walking the Angel Palace Trail at Kodachrome Basin State Park. When you get to the end, there is an itty bitty walkway you can walk out onto to get to the edge of a cliff (pictured below). The panoramic view was amazing, but I was absolutely terrified. 

What indoor/outdoor activities bring you the most enjoyment?

My favorite outdoor activities are fishing, sitting by the lake and reading, going on walks, and hunting/camping during deer season with family. My favorite indoor activities are family game nights, reading, and watching the Chosen. 

What dish is your favorite to prepare?

That’s a tie between parmesan crusted chicken & egg drop soup!

What do you like most about working in the Mission Office?

The highlights so far have been meeting the missionaries that come into the office and talking with missionaries either on the phone or through email. I have really enjoyed fellowshipping with my coworkers and praying each morning as an office for specific situations and for our missionaries as a whole. 

If you would like to send your greetings to her, you may do so at agarrison@bbfimissions.com.

-by Jill Wolf