Olivet The Magazine; Doing Something Good Together - Summer '25

DOING SOMETHING GOOD TOGETHER IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD SPOTLIGHT ON GRADUATE DEGREES

OLIVET NAZARENE UNIVERSITY SUMMER 2025

CAMPUS AND PARK IN ONE

Olivet Nazarene Univeristy’s 275-acre campus is a beautiful place to stroll, play a round of disc golf or even tie up a hammock. In 2022 ONU joined the ranks of over 700 arboreta across 40 countries as an internationally accredited arboreturm. The Level I Certification was granted through Illinois’ Morton Arboretum.

DEAR FRIENDS,

In the words of St. Francis of Assisi, to live in community, “What we need is a cup of understanding, a barrel of love, and an ocean of patience.” These words capture the essence of what we’re building together at Olivet.

From our close-knit campus to the century-long support of our neighbors in Bourbonnais, Kankakee County and beyond, we witness something special. We celebrate the people in our neighborhood — the educators, health care professionals, farmers, businesses, artists, public servants, clergy and congregations who make our community thrive. We’re thankful for each of you.

We all need to belong, and we belong to something greater than ourselves — both as people of God and members of the Olivet family. Our community, inspired by Christ’s love and empowered by the Holy Spirit, creates bonds that transcend geography and circumstance. This summer, we see lives transformed through friendship, generosity and doing good together.

As we enter the community phase of our Strength & Hope Campaign, we’re grateful for the overwhelming support from our churches, friends, family and neighbors. Your prayers, presence and generosity have created a foundation of hope for generations to come.

As we begin this academic year, let’s commit to doing something good together. In these pages, you’ll discover stories of connection, service and God working through ordinary moments to create extraordinary impact. This is our invitation — to lean in, serve, pray, give, belong and be part of Olivet’s continuing story of faith meeting calling.

Helen Keller said, “Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.” May this inspire us as we move forward in faith and community.

With hope and gratitude, The Editorial Team

OLIVET THE MAGAZINE is published quarterly by the Office of Marketing and Engagement under the direction of the vice president for institutional advancement.

VOLUME 94 ISSUE 3 (USPS 407-880) (ISSN 2325-7334) Copyright ©2025

Olivet Nazarene University One University Avenue Bourbonnais, IL 60914-2345

800-648-1463

PRESIDENT Dr. Gregg Chenoweth ’90/M.A./Ph.D.

VICE PRESIDENT FOR FINANCE AND CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

Matt Foor ’95 CPA/MSA

VICE PRESIDENT OF OPERATIONS

Rob Lalumendre ’12/’14 MBA

VICE PRESIDENT FOR ENROLLMENT MANAGEMENT

Dr. Mark Reddy ’95/’08 MOL/’24 Ed.D.

VICE PRESIDENT FOR STUDENT DEVELOPMENT

Dr. Jason Stephens M.A./Ph.D.

VICE PRESIDENT FOR INSTITUTIONAL ADVANCEMENT

Dr. Brian Allen ’82/’05 Litt.D.

VICE PRESIDENT FOR ACADEMIC AFFAIRS

Dr. Stephen Lowe ’88/M.A./Ph.D.

EDITORIAL BOARD

Dr. Brian Allen ’82/’05 Litt.D.

Erika Moeschke ’12/’19 MBA

Dr. Brian W. Parker ’93/’11 Ed.D. for 989 Group

George Wolff ’93 for 989 Group

Susan Wolff ’94/’06 MBA

Erika Moeschke ’12/’19 MBA

ART DIRECTION

George Wolff ’93 for 989 Group

DESIGN

Donnie Johnson Matt Moore ’96 for 989 Group

PHOTOGRAPHY

Mark Ballogg, Jones Foto, Image Group, Skyler Blanton ’23, Dennis Freeman ’74, Joe Mantarian ’16, Gabe Meinert ’26

Kyle Petersen ’24, Noah Sears ’23

Additional photography submitted

EDITORIAL SUPPORT AND DESIGN

Adam Asher ’01/’07 MOL for 989 Group

Lauren Beatty ’13, Raquel Gonzalez ’24

Alicia (Gallagher) Guertin ’14, Rebecca Huber

Caroline Mueller, Andrew Perabeau ’20

Hannah Priest ’21/’22 MBA, Noah Sears ’23, Heather (Kinzinger) Shaner ’98, Laura Warfel for 989 Group

Periodicals postage paid at the Bourbonnais, Illinois, post office and at additional mailing offices. Postmaster, send address changes to: Editor, Olivet The Magazine

Olivet Nazarene University One University Avenue Bourbonnais, IL 60914-2345

FROM THE PRESIDENT

We’re not just earning diplomas; we’re becoming disciples who happen to be learning.

Gregg Chenoweth ’90, Ph.D., is the 13th president of Olivet Nazarene University. He earned his Ph.D. in organizational communication from Wayne State University and is the author of Everyday Discernment: The Art of Cultivating Spirit-Led Leadership (The Foundry Press, 2021).

This article is adapted from a message Dr. Chenoweth presented to the Olivet community in Centennial Chapel.

When I look across our campus today, I’m struck by something extraordinary happening — something that transcends the typical university experience. At Olivet, we’re not just building an institution; we’re cultivating a community that reflects the very heart of our Christian calling.

A Shared Identity

Our campus represents a beautiful tapestry of humanity. Students arrive from 28 countries, representing varied backgrounds, economic circumstances and life experiences.

Some students arrive from families of considerable means, while others come from households where every dollar is carefully counted and college tuition looms like a constant cloud of concern. Some carry the weight of financial stress, while others navigate the complexities of being the first in their family to attend college. We have students of every ethnicity, political affiliation and denominational background, each carrying their own story.

On the surface, these differences might seem like an obstacle to unity. But I’ve witnessed something remarkable: When we ground our community in Christ, these differences become strengths rather than divisions. As Jesus prayed in John 17:21, we find our hope in the prayer that “all” of us “may be one.” This isn’t uniformity; it’s unity rooted in our shared identity as beloved children of God.

Faith-Integrated Learning

What sets Olivet apart is how we approach education itself. Unlike universities that simply offer knowledge without connection, we ask deeper questions: What is God’s interest in every field of study? How does faith inform our understanding of chemistry, music, nursing, business or engineering?

This faith integration creates what I call “discipleship across disciplines.” Like a flock of birds that maintains formation while soaring together, our academic community moves with shared purpose. We’re not just earning diplomas; we’re becoming disciples who happen to be learning. This transforms everything — from our motivation for service to how we navigate ethical dilemmas and, ultimately, how we define success.

Who We Are

Our identity as “Olivet Nazarene” carries profound significance that shapes our community. Mount Olivet — the Mount of Olives — represents one of Christianity’s most sacred spaces. It’s a place of triumphal arrival, where Jesus entered Jerusalem amid celebration. You, too, arrived here with hope and dreams for your future.

Mount Olivet is also a place of support during hardship. In the Garden of Gethsemane, Jesus experienced profound grief, yet He wasn’t alone: His friends surrounded Him in prayer. Similarly, our Olivet community stands ready to support you through financial stress, social and familial challenges, or academic pressure. You don’t have to navigate your “Garden of Gethsemane” alone.

Finally, Mount Olivet represents anticipated victory. The Bible tells us Christ will return through this same path, reminding us that our present struggles aren’t the end of the story. At our Olivet, we operate with this same hopeful victory, trusting in God’s sovereignty over every concern.

A Vision Made Visible

Recently, four life-sized sculptures were installed in our Quad — figures walking from Benner Library to Centennial Chapel, representing the journey from knowledge to worship. These sculptures depict Jesus talking with students while a professor guides them, all wearing graduation robes. This image captures our aspiration: diploma and discipleship, credential and calling, walking together.

This is what makes Olivet more than a university. We’re a community rising with Christ and with each other. We’re not just attending college; we’re participating in a community that transforms lives, shapes character and sends graduates into the world as agents of hope and healing. This is the Olivet way: better than a university — a true community of faith.

Sincerely,

Gregg Chenoweth, Ph.D. University President

LET’S GET SOCIAL

JOIN US IN PRAYER

As we swing into the fall semester, we extend three invitations to the entire Olivet community of alumni, friends, fans and family.

ARE INVITED

First, we invite you to join us in prayer on Sunday, Sept. 14, for A Day of Prayer for Olivet. This special day will mark the opening Sunday of fall revival services with our campus congregation at College Church University Avenue. We are asking every Olivet alumnus, friend and family member, along with every congregation across the Olivet field, to agree with us in prayer on this significant day. Please lift up our students, faculty and staff in prayer, asking that God will be with us in a wonderful way during these revival services and fall months. There is power when we unite our hearts and voices in prayer across distances and time zones.

Second, we encourage you to engage with the Wake-Up Call by Seedbed this fall. This global movement of spiritual awakening invites participants to “Come walk with Jesus — day by day, chapter by chapter — through the Gospels. This daily journey is shaped in Scripture, rooted in community, and alive with the Spirit’s work in us. Let’s wake up to His love together.” Many members of the Olivet family are already benefiting greatly from this transformative spiritual discipline. Whether you’re a student beginning your academic journey or an alumnus continuing your walk with Christ, this is an opportunity to deepen your faith alongside believers worldwide. More information can be found at seedbed.com.

Third, be watching for an exciting new feature called “Within These Halls” at Olivet.edu and on Olivet’s social media pages. This new initiative will highlight inspirational and life-changing messages from University chapel services and College Church, bringing the spiritual richness of our campus worship experiences to our extended community. Whether you’re unable to attend in person or simply want to revisit these powerful moments, “Within These Halls” will help you stay connected to the heart of spiritual life at Olivet.

These three invitations represent our commitment to encouraging the spiritual vitality that has always been at the center of the Olivet experience. We believe that prayer, engagement with Biblical texts and the truths of Christianity, and shared worship are essential elements that bind us together as one community, regardless of where we are in the world.

Thank you for being part of the Olivet family. May this fall semester be marked by spiritual awakening and growth as well as a deeper walk with Christ for all of us.

ONU IN THE NEWS

From Ukraine to Olivet to Chicago

Mary Balashova ’25, a Ukrainian student who came to the U.S. in 2018 as a teenager, overcame significant challenges to graduate from Olivet Nazarene University with a computer science degree. After living with an American host family and attending high school in Missouri, she decided to pursue higher education in the U.S. Following financial issues at her first college, she transferred to Olivet, where she excelled academically while competing in track and field and working nearly full time.

During her junior year, Mary faced a critical moment when she discovered a $24,000 balance on her student account, threatening her ability to continue.

Through the advocacy of Olivet staff, an anonymous donor paid her entire balance, allowing her to complete her degree. She graduated in May with her Ukrainian mentor present, as her biological family couldn’t attend.

Now working as an IT specialist in Chicago, Mary is applying her technical skills while also planning to pursue a master’s degree and to transition into a coding-focused role. Throughout her journey, Mary has credited her faith and the support of her mentors, particularly professor Jeffery Rice ’99/’03 MBA.

Theatre Deptartment Hosts

Inaugural Professional Theatre Conference

This past spring, Olivet Nazarene University hosted its first Professional Theatre Conference, inviting students to learn from accomplished actors, including alumnus George Andrew Wolff ’93 and James Harms. The event featured a panel discussion, student performances and live feedback sessions.

Seventeen student acts were selected from video auditions, with three receiving one-on-one coaching. Organized by ONU Theatre Director Kelsie Davis ’19/’22 MBA, the conference aimed to bridge the gap between college and professional theatre. With nearly 50 attendees from multiple academic disciplines, the event emphasized that all students — regardless of major — could gain valuable insight into the world of performance.

Ferris Named Director of Entrepreneurship Program

Daniel Ferris ’90/’01 MBA has been named the director of Olivet Nazarene University’s entrepreneurship program. Professor Ferris, who brings decades of leadership experience and has a deep family legacy at ONU, will lead the entrepreneurship major and minor, the Createur Conference & Pitch Competition and the new Crawford Startup Studio.

“I’m excited to help students build business plans and discover their calling,” he said. “Walking alongside them as they gain confidence and clarity is a great joy.”

Dr. Glen Rewerts, dean of ONU’s McGraw School of Business, added, “Daniel brings both entrepreneurial expertise and a heart for student mentorship — professionally and spiritually. We’re blessed to have him leading this program forward.”

High School Prospects, College Football Programs Converge

More than 200 high school football players and college coaches representing more than 30 programs from across the country attended the inaugural 2025 Avante Mitchell Football Mega Camp this past June at Olivet Nazarene University.

The mega camp model allowed coaches to see large numbers of student athletes all at once, evaluate talent and make recruiting connections. Players had an opportunity to make an impression on college coaches as well as recruiting services such as 247, Rivals and Prep Redzone. Throughout the day, the high school students built relationships with Olivet’s football staff and experienced Olivet’s sports facilities.

“This is the first of many to come,” said head coach Avante Mitchell. “We’re going to grow the camp here. We’re going to invite more student athletes and more colleges to come to connect with one another and be exposed to Olivet.”

‘All

In. All Together.’ for Annual Day of Giving

The Olivet Nazarene University community came together in April for the ninth annual Day of Giving. In just 24 hours, more than 2,200 donors helped raise over $570,000, surpassing the University’s goals.

The theme “All In. All Together.” was chosen to reflect the passion and unity that define the Olivet experience. The day generated support for over 50 initiatives, including academic programs, athletic development, student life enhancements, ministry and mission opportunities, and the first-ever studentvoted project.

“Our goal is to creatively support the people and programs that make Olivet special,” said Austin Brown ’19, director of the Olivet Fund. “This year’s results reflect the Olivet community’s deep belief in our mission.”

The first-ever student-voted project, a hammock park and fire pits, was fully funded, along with 12 other projects that included the Shalom Project ministry trips and men’s baseball equipment needs.

Looking ahead to 2026, Olivet will celebrate the 10th Annual Day of Giving on April 15 with the goal of raising $1 million and engaging the wider community through a campus event and surprises throughout the day.

“We look forward to building on our success together next year,” Austin said.

Summer Renovations Improve Iconic Features of Decker Quadrangle

Olivet Nazarene University broke ground this spring for a significant campus improvement: a redevelopment of the Decker Quadrangle, known to the campus community as “The Quad.” The project, which was fully underwritten by an unsolicited gift from an Olivet alumni couple, will renovate and expand the iconic outdoor plaza that connects inner-campus buildings.

The central area on campus, surrounded by Benner Library, Ludwig Center, Nesbitt Hall, Williams Hall and Hills Hall, has long been a meeting point for students, faculty and staff. Plans for the renovation include new brick pavers; community fire pits; a hammock

park; increased tables, chairs and benches for casual hangouts; a redesigned area optimized for hosting food trucks and pop-up vendors; and enhancements to the landscaping.

The expanded area has been named the Brian and Lynda Allen Plaza. The Allens have spent the majority of their careers serving the University. Dr. Brian Allen ’82 is the vice president for institutional advancement, and Dr. Lynda Allen ’82/’88 MBA is a faculty member in the McGraw School of Business.

News, events and feature stories are added each week at Olivet.edu

WHEN IN

ROME

John C. Bowling '71/'72 M.A., Ed.D., president emeritus, served ...

John C. Bowling ‘71/’72 M.A., Ed.D., president emeritus, served as president of Olivet Nazarene University from 1991 to 2021. An Olivet alumnus and Harvard University Fellow with two master’s degrees and two earned doctorates, Dr. Bowling is a bestselling author and prominent national speaker. He is internationally recognized as an outstanding leader in higher education and the Church. His most recent books are Lake Cora Haiku (Fulton Books, 2024) and My Cup Runneth Over: A Lenten Journey in Jerusalem (The Foundry Publishing, 2024).

John C. Bowling

Last May, Jill and I flew to Rome for the election of the new pope. It was an impulsive decision which was, at first consideration, a bit odd because we are not Catholic. Nonetheless, we recognized this as a historic event that was drawing international attention. So off we went!

Our plan was simple: Stay within walking distance of St. Peter’s Square, and wait, for however long it took, to be there when the white smoke appeared, signaling the election of the pope. Then, watch and listen as the new pope made his first appearance on the papal balcony overlooking the square.

This turned out to be an amazing experience — a once-in-a-lifetime moment. We arrived on May 6, the day before the papal conclave was to begin. After finding our hotel, we walked to St. Peter’s to survey the arrangements being made to host the massive crowd.

The next morning, at about 9 a.m., we made our way back to the square and took our places among the thousands of others gathering to wait and watch. By 9 p.m. that evening, there was no election — only black smoke. The following morning, we returned to wait once more.

Throughout the day, we had a series of conversations with people from all over the world. We were different in so many ways (culture, language, politics), yet we soon realized we were also united — each hoping for the new pope to be a voice for compassion, reconciliation, redemption and the oneness of humanity. It was an E Pluribus Unum moment.

Finally, as early evening approached, it happened. Suddenly, white smoke appeared from the chimney of the Sistine Chapel, and the massive bells of St. Peter’s Basilica began to ring. The crowd erupted with cheers and tears. Pope Leo XIV had been elected.

Following the election, we happened to be interviewed by Seth Doane for the CBS Sunday Morning show. He asked why we, as non-Catholics, would make a special trip to Rome and stand for hours to be there for the election. And he wanted to know our reaction to the experience. We said that the overarching thing that struck us was the sense of community that had developed throughout the square during those many hours of waiting. People were considerate of each other, making way for wheelchairs and offering water, along with other expressions of kindness.

We live in a fragmented country and a fractured world. Many things divide us. However, this experience in Rome helped demonstrate the power and joy of shifting our focus from our differences to those things that

unite us. The word community is a combination of two terms: common and unity. Community is built not on our differences but on our common human identity and shared desires. Together, our differences create a tapestry of belonging.

The Gospel is certainly expressed in terms of common unity: “There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called; one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all” (Ephesians 4:4–6) and “There is one body, but it has many parts. But all its many parts make up one body. It is the same with Christ” (1 Corinthians 12:12, NIRV).

In the same way, Olivet Nazarene University is a place of community — a community of faith, living and learning. Students come from various traditions and backgrounds, and yet at Olivet, they find a common unity — a “community” where they belong. It is transformational.

Of course, the Olivet community extends well beyond the campus. It encompasses the greater Kankakee area and reaches to the uttermost parts of the earth in the lives and influence of alumni, parents and friends who see the value of an “Education With a Christian Purpose.” Olivet is not a Catholic university … but it is a “catholic” place. A place for all to belong.

TRADITION AND HONOR

COMM WEEK

Olivet Nazarene University’s 112th Commencement Ceremony celebrated the academic accomplishments of 813 new graduates.

ENCEMENT END CELEBRATION

In anticipation of completing their undergraduate experience at Olivet Nazarene University, members of the class of 2025 spent the last week of April completing their final papers, exams, projects and presentations before celebrating with senior week activities, which included a Chicago baseball game, free movie tickets to a local theatre and coffees and ice cream treats in the nearby village of Manteno.

Throughout the week, academic departments and programs, including the Department of Social Work and Criminal Justice, Department of Mathematics and Computer Science, School of Education, School of Nursing, McGraw School of Business and University Honors Program, hosted award, pinning and commissioning ceremonies to honor the accomplishments of graduating seniors.

At the Baccalaureate Service, two outstanding graduate candidates, Savannah White and Anthony MataBolandi, shared their testimonies of how their lives were impacted by an Olivet education. Savannah majored in pastoral ministry, and Anthony doublemajored in entrepreneurship and business administration.

“Wherever it leads you, let your life be marked by service,” he said. “Real service — the kind that changes lives — is rooted in love. To the class of 2025, when you walk out of here tomorrow, don’t just carry your diploma, but carry your purpose. Let your life be marked not just by what you accomplished in your life but by who you lift, who you include and who you love. Real love doesn’t discriminate; it doesn’t wait for comfort or convenience. It reaches across race, across borders, across religions. But, most important, it listens, it serves and it sacrifices. … The world is in good hands, because I see that love in each one of you tonight.”

During the Commencement Ceremony, guest speakers included Esther (Thomas) Tueck ’97, mother of graduate Cole Tueck, who gave the invocation; Tiffany (Hardy) Greer ’97, Ph.D., mother of graduate Heidi Greer, who read Mathew 6:19–33; and Angel Colón ’90, head of diversity, equity and inclusion at Designer Brands, who gave the Commencement address.

“There’s nothing wrong with success, but living a life of significance impacts people eternally,” Angel said. “Wherever life takes you,

I hope you remember the blessings of your time here, the people who have made a difference in your life, the success you have achieved today and the lessons you have learned. ... I challenge you to pursue your dreams, strive for success, but most importantly, walk into a life of significance that will live beyond your years.”

For more photos and the full Commencement story, go to Olivet.edu/News

RAVING FANS

CONSTANT IN THE CHANGES

Steve Krampitz

Transition is challenging. Steve Krampitz ’89 credits his education at Olivet Nazarene University for anchoring him in his Christian faith and making him a transition expert.

As a teenager, Steve’s first connection with Olivet came through his second foster parent couple, Don and Beverly (Burton) Johnson, who met while they were Olivet students. Don grew up in Kankakee County and attended Bradley-Bourbonnais Community High School. Don’s parents, Oscar and Bertha Johnson, were charter members of College Church of the Nazarene in Bourbonnais.

Don and Bev had five children of their own, and all but one of them attended Olivet. They were also foster parents to more than 200 children during their 20 years of caring for young people in challenging family situations. They were wonderful parents for Steve at a transitional time in his high school years.

“I remember attending Homecoming activities on campus with Don and Bev for the first time in 1983,” Steve recalls. “I had no idea back then that I would ever become an Olivet student, much less an Olivet graduate someday.”

Don and Bev — whom Steve called Mom and Dad because he had lost both of his biological parents at a young age — took him to the Homecoming basketball game and to a play at Kresge Auditorium during that first visit.

Finding His Anchor at Olivet

When Steve came to the Johnson family, he had already attended seven different schools. During his last two high school years, the Johnsons helped him grow in his faith, get more involved in their Nazarene church family and get more connected with the church youth group.

“My only biological sister was already enrolled at a public university, and I enrolled there during my senior year in high school,” Steve says. “But following an impactful sermon from my youth pastor — at the very last minute, in fact — I switched my enrollment to Olivet instead. Even though I had very few resources of my

“Being part of the Olivet community is one of my greatest joys.”

own, God worked out His plan for me to start classes at Olivet in August 1985. The staff truly cared about me and helped me find the funding I needed to get my degree.”

Steve was one of the first students to cover a portion of his tuition by working at the radio station on campus. This job turned out to be a life-changing step for him.

“We navigated a lot of transition while I was employed at the station from 1985 to 1989,” he says. “We changed our location on the radio dial. Had a power increase to 35,000 watts. Changed our call letters. Even changed our music format. By the time I graduated in August 1989, the station had entered the digital age.”

Charting a Career Course

Steve was one of the first DJs to open up the microphone for WONU (formerly known as WKOC and broadcasting only in a small radius beyond the campus). Soon, they began getting phone calls from listeners in Chicagoland.

When the radio station tower was struck by lightning in 1987, Steve was one of the first to enter the studio after the storm.

“We could still smell the burnt wiring and equipment,” he says. “I helped evaluate the equipment to determine what was still working and what needed to be replaced.”

Steve was also greatly influenced by his experiences while singing in Orpheus Choir for four years. Dr. George Dunbar ’58 directed and conducted the choir at that time, and he became a powerful mentor for Steve. One of Steve’s fondest Olivet memories is the trip the choir made to sing at the National Music Educators Conference in Anaheim, California, in 1986.

“We chose our airplane seat locations by lottery, and God seated me between two Olivet giants, Dr. Dunbar and Dr. Harlow Hopkins,” Steve says. “When the flight attendants realized they had a choir on board, they asked us to sing the national anthem as we were flying over the Rocky Mountains. That was my very first airplane flight. For so many reasons, I will never forget it.”

Postgraduation Successes

Steve’s radio and fine arts experiences launched him into two successful careers. He worked at a variety of radio stations in Illinois, Iowa and Michigan until jobs became so scarce and low paying that he needed to find another career. Today, he works in customer service for Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois. His on-air broadcasting experiences plus the discipline and poise needed in musical performances are combining to make him an effective and valued employee.

Keeping memories of Olivet alive is one of Steve’s passions, as he continues to collect historical information and memorabilia from all decades of the University’s life. His collection includes more than 100 volumes of the Aurora yearbook; a large Olivet Nazarene College-branded round wall thermometer from 1978; and Dr. Dunbar’s miniature Nazarene hymnal from 1972 with Dr. Dunbar’s signature on the front, given to him by Linda (Luttrell) Dunbar ’59, Dr. Dunbar’s wife. He also has many CD, vinyl LP and cassette recordings of Olivet choirs and music groups, which he often shares on his YouTube channel and his Live365.com free streaming radio station.

A Word for Prospective Students and Parents

“Olivet has done a great job of adding more majors, strengthening and growing departments, adding more graduate studies, and all with a Christian focus and foundation,” Steve says. “Shine.FM has grown to become a major broadcasting network for Christian music. Being part of the Olivet community is one of my greatest joys.”

Steve adds, “Higher education is expensive, no matter what school a student chooses. My message to students and their parents is: Don’t let money be the obstacle. If Olivet is where God wants you, He will make a way and put you there.”

Learn more about Shine.FM and Olivet’s history at Olivet.edu

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT

Three Stories of Perseverance and Inspiration

Lauren Beatty

Sosuo Anigboro ’24 immigrated from Nigeria to Indiana at 15, repeating high school years she had already completed. She embraced this challenge, earning 35 college credits through AP classes. At Olivet Nazarene University, she double-majored in accounting and finance while participating extensively in campus activities. Despite graduating summa cum laude in three years, she learned that success required both technical knowledge and relational skills, leading to her current role as a staff auditor at Ernst & Young in Virginia.

Scan here to read the rest of Sosuo’s story.

Olivet Nazarene University’s School of Education prepares teachers with strong academic foundations and Christian purpose. Graduate Jacob Hildenbrandt ’19 exemplifies this mission, transitioning from elementary teacher to dean of students at Thompson Crossing Elementary School in Indianapolis. His Olivet experience, including mentorship from faculty like Dr. Kelly Brown ’92 and leadership roles, shaped his career philosophy. As an administrator, he emphasizes supporting students, staff and parents while maintaining Christian values of joy, fairness and encouragement through daily educational challenges.

Scan here to read the rest of Jacob’s story.

Vincent Giuliano ’24 overcame Tourette syndrome through athletics, discovering sports helped reduce his symptoms. At Olivet Nazarene University, he became an exceptional studentathlete, breaking eight school records and earning NAIA AllAmerican honors five times. Despite struggling academically initially, he maintained dean’s list status while pursuing kinesiology. After graduation, he found success at Grand Valley State University, earning his master’s degree with a 4.0 GPA while competing on championship relay teams.

Scan here to read the rest of Vincent’s story.

REACH FOR THE STARS

On average, Strickler Planetarium hosts 70 shows per year for the campus community as well as regular field trip opportunities for local school children — giving a yearly average of 3,200 people the unique chance to become more familiar with the sky and its celestial objects.

With so many ways to connect with Olivet Nazarene University, you’re never far from meaningful conversations. Events like Homecoming Weekend, athletic contests and theatrical performances give students and alumni the opportunity to share experiences that foster the kind of fellowship that lasts a lifetime.

JOIN THE CONVERSATION

WE BELIEVE YOU BELONG THERE, TOO

Study Abroad in Oxford, England

Stephen Case

At Olivet Nazarene University, opportunities for scholarship and academic rigor extend beyond the Bourbonnais campus. For students looking to expand their academic horizons, Olivet’s study-abroad program in Oxford, England, offers the chance to complete courses for their degree overseas in an international cultural context. The Oxford Scholar Semester, the oldest and most well established of Olivet’s several study-abroad options, gives students an experience of the rich academic environment of Oxford alongside peers from other Christian universities across the U.S.

At Oxford University, the tradition of learning stretches back nearly 1,000 years. Students in the Oxford Scholar Semester follow in the footsteps of medieval scholars as well as recent academic luminaries such as C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien. In the program, built around the traditional tutorial model of instruction in which scholars work individually with an Oxford professor, students take specialized courses in their disciplines as well as weekly field trips exploring the history of Christianity across England. A semester abroad at Oxford combines the best of the Olivet experience with the history and tradition of Oxford University.

This past semester, Olivet faculty had a chance to visit the program and learn more about what it has to offer.

“The Oxford Scholar Semester is a unique studyabroad program focusing on scholarly, academic engagement,” explains Dr. Mark Mountain ’97, University registrar and study-abroad coordinator

“It’s an excellent opportunity for our students to be challenged academically through a one-onone tutorial with a scholar in their discipline [and] an excellent opportunity for students seeking to engage their learning through a model beyond the typical classroom.”

Dr. Ryan Himes, professor in the Department of Biology, agrees: “The rigorous nature of the tutorial format, where students meet one-on-one with Oxford dons each week, has the potential to be transformational. For students who crave knowledge and want to be challenged to think deeper than they ever have before, I think it will be life-changing.”

For Dr. Beth Schurman ’03/’05 MAE, chair of the Department of English, Oxford offers a unique combination of community and academics.

“If the appeal of immersing yourself in the shelves of the Bodleian Library or traversing the streets and sights isn’t enough to convince you, then the community of scholars and research will,” she says. “For students who are serious thinkers and scholars, Oxford is where they belong. I cannot think of another undergraduate experience that will challenge or stretch students more than this program.”

Besides academics, the program is characterized by community, Dr. Schuman notes.

“What stood out to me the most was the feeling of community from everyone involved in the program,” she says. “It was a feeling of a family of scholars where everyone has a seat at the table and a voice in the conversation. Put simply, this program will not just teach you; it will transform you as a thinker, scholar and person.”

For students who want a taste of Oxford but are not able to spend an entire semester, a summer option is also available. Anna Shoup ’25 decided this would be the best fit for her.

“The program itself was incredibly open,” Anna explains. “Because it was largely independent study and research due to the tutorial system, the days were mostly my own to do what I wanted with. There was plenty of work to do, but I had the opportunity to go do it in whatever scenic new coffee shop or library my heart desired. Because of this freedom, there was a whole lot of adventure and spontaneity built into the experience. … The opportunity for adventure made it an ideal summer program for me.”

Anna recommends the program to students who are interested in research, academia, history or a fun challenge. Personal highlights included visiting as many Harry Potter filming sites as possible and Friday field trips with the whole cohort.

“Every Friday the entire group goes on a day trip to historic places,” she says. “It is a wonderful break and a way to see the country. My favorite was Salisbury Cathedral. Another highlight was the community built during our time there. The leaders and other students are wonderful, and it is really an opportunity to make lifelong friends and make unforgettable memories with them in a once-in-a-lifetime place.”

For more information about studying abroad at Oxford, visit scio-uk.org. Students who plan to make a semester abroad part of their college experience should contact Dr. Mark Mountain at 815-928-5794 or mcmountain@Olivet.edu

In the

Lauren Beatty

THE TALK OF THE TOWN

Olivet Nazarene University is uniquely situated in the middle of three small cities. As a student, you might move to a Bourbonnais address, but you’ll find it very difficult to avoid encountering the great things Bradley and Kankakee have to offer too. With very little effort, you’ll also experience beauty found in Herscher, Limestone, St. Anne, Aroma Park, Manteno, Peotone, Momence, Grant Park, Beecher and beyond.

In contrast to other similar-sized universities that are either smooshed into a large city or inconveniently located 30 minutes from the nearest superstore, the neighborhood in which Olivet is located is large and diverse enough to appeal to city dwellers and manageable and charming enough to not overwhelm small-town folk. There are a plethora of nonprofit organizations, churches, park districts, commercial ventures, restaurants, athletic complexes and health care organizations, plus plenty of big-box superstores to choose from. But access to all of those things isn’t necessarily what makes this neighborhood so great.

A Kankakee County “lifer” reflects on her evolving relationship with Olivet and the surrounding communities.

For my entire life (minus the one year I spent in Paris for a master’s program), I’ve lived in the tri-city area. I grew up in Kankakee, attended college at Olivet in Bourbonnais and then, following my master’s program, moved back to the area and have lived in Bradley for the past nine years. I used to begrudge the fact that I not only still live in my hometown area, but I’ve also been “stuck” in my college town. Fortunately, I’ve come to really respect and appreciate this neighborhood in which I get to live and work.

Neigborhood

My expert opinions about the Olivet neighborhood come from having a multitude of connections with the University throughout my life. To start, I’m a third-generation alumnus. After my parents (Steve ’82 and Constance ’81/’87 M.A./’13 M.A.) graduated, they got married, found jobs and established roots in Kankakee County. When my grandpa (Charles Beatty ’58) retired, he and my grandma moved back to this area to be close to family and because they knew that the health care, assisted living and eventual long-term care options in this area were exceptional. They would all tell you that while this area may not be the absolute most interesting place to live, it’s stable, safe and full of opportunity.

Despite my family’s high opinions of the neighborhood, to be completely honest, I didn’t want to attend Olivet. Perhaps I shouldn’t include that detail in a marketing piece on behalf of the University, but I think there is value in admitting that I wasn’t born a raving fan. It wasn’t that I thought Olivet was a bad school — there was nothing wrong with it — I just wasn’t convinced it was the right fit for me. From my naive perspective, the community was too familiar, the neighborhoods too boring. I thought I knew everyone, had gone everywhere. I was, of course, very wrong.

I could write a book about my experiences as a student. ... They were overwhelmingly good for me and my academic, emotional, mental and spiritual development.

I wasn’t forced to enroll at Olivet, but I was encouraged to at least apply. When I moved into room 415 of Williams Hall on a very humid morning in August 2009, I was unenthusiastic about my circumstances. But, fortunately, within 24 hours, my attitude had changed significantly. In my four years as a student, I served as a resident assistant, played violin in the University Orchestra, double-majored in international business and political science, worked at Benner Library, managed Ludwig Information Desk, played intramural volleyball, choreographed for Ollies Follies and conducted research in the University Honors Program. Those are just the things that made up my life at Olivet. Off campus, I taught dance at a Christian dance studio with other Olivet alumni, volunteered to teach 2-year-olds at church and did some marketing projects for the Salvation Army.

I could write a book about my experiences as a student. They weren’t always good, but they were overwhelmingly good for me and my academic, emotional, mental and spiritual development. I was supported by classmates, faculty, staff and administrators to succeed not just on campus but also as I planned and prepared to start my career.

But, beyond my wealth of experiences as a student and employee, my life doesn’t actually revolve around the University. Olivet is an institution, and I’m an individual just living my life in Kankakee County. However, wherever I go in this area, I seem to interact with other Olivet connections who are using their exceptional talents to contribute in their own neighborhoods.

Just a few examples of this: I can’t sit at any of our great local coffee shops (or go grocery shopping) without running into at least five Olivetians whom I personally know. In one afternoon outing, I might chat with Lauren Glenn ’09 M.A., head women’s basketball coach; Amber (Leffel) ’14 and Luke Olney ’10/’12 MOL, worship leaders at College Church and the vocal directors of a community theatre production of Godspell this summer; Sonya (Yates) Comer ’95, piano professor at Olivet and co-owner of the local FASTSIGNS franchise; Jeff Williamson ’84, marketing professor and owner of Converge Group coaching and consulting; Jennifer (Hasselbring) Shride ’91, Zumba instructor and volunteer extraordinaire; and Melissa (Leatherman) Hyma ’03, physical therapist at River Valley Physical Therapy.

I don’t have space to write the name of every Olivetian I know in this area.

As an Olivet employee for nearly a decade, I’ve worked in the offices of Admissions, Alumni and University Relations, and Marketing. I’ve also taught as an adjunct professor in the Department of Communication and Digital Media for five years. In short, I’ve seen the professional sides of Olivet from both the staff and faculty perspectives.

It has been my job (and privilege) as a staff writer to highlight the excellent pursuits of current students and our illustrious alumni. In the past 24 issues of Olivet The Magazine, I’ve had the pleasure of conducting interviews with and sharing the stories of hundreds of students, families, faculty, staff, administrators, alumni and friends of the University. So, if my own lived-in experience isn’t enough of a testament to how wonderful Olivet and the surrounding communities are, at least allow that it’s unlikely so many people would continue to speak of the institution’s positive and long-lasting influences on their lives.

If I want a bit of an adventure, I can drive through beautiful farmland to get a fresh-baked pastry from Tiffany (Dietrich) DeRocco ’12 at her coffee shop, The Mill, in St. Anne. Or, if I want to stay closer to home, I can easily walk down the street from my office to Connect Roasters, which has hosted two of my solo art shows. The owner, Caleb Benoit ’06, and half of his staff are alumni or current students. The local Chick-fil-A is owned by the Klavohn family, and I would be surprised if there aren’t Olivet students employed by every other food service establishment around town.

Every time I turn on my car, the uplifting music of Shine.FM plays over the radio. On midday commercial breaks, the voice of the host is one of my former communication students, Abby Bennett ’23, who transitions the music with an encouraging word. Regular spots on Shine.FM highlight a local church of the week, reminding me how special it is to live in a community that supports and is supported by a vast

We probably don’t say it enough as an institution, but Olivet needs this community.

network of believers. An extraordinary number of local pastors and staff attended Olivet. Just at my home church, GatheringPoint, almost the entire staff either attended Olivet or are parents of University alumni.

Even the yoga studio I teach at is owned by an Olivet alumna. Although she didn’t complete her degree here, Emily (Throop) Subach credits Olivet professors with helping her navigate a particularly difficult season of life with grace and kindness.

As I check students in, I greet current Olivet staff members, parents of prospective students and some of my former classmates. We’re all there to practice yoga, but there are common values woven into our conversations, our attitudes and our interactions that I attribute to the Olivet ethos by which we’ve been influenced.

I don’t have space to write the name of every Olivetian I know in this area because, in general, the local school systems, health care institutions and emergency service departments are staffed disproportionately high with gifted Olivet alumni. These teachers, principals, nurses, administrative support staff, EMTs, managing directors, doctors, surgeons, anesthesiologists, police officers, firefighters, etc., work tirelessly to educate, treat, protect and support our community. Beyond that, hundreds of Olivet graduates work for multinational companies that have a large presence in the area, including CSL, Peddinghaus, Nucor, Federal Signal and FutureCeuticals. Multiple franchises and small businesses are also owned, operated and/or managed by Olivet alumni.

In my many years of working for the marketing team, the theme that comes up the most about what people remember about Olivet is community. To be sure, alumni frequently mention professors, staff and classmates who had an impact on their lives — but just as often, they mention things like an off-campus business that employed them, a church that accepted them, an internship that stretched them or a local family that hosted them for home-cooked meals.

You probably get the picture by now: I’m a strong advocate for this neighborhood and its amazing residents. If I expanded the neighborhood perimeter to include surrounding counties, the results would really be overwhelming. On more than one occasion, I’ve run into an Olivet connection while visiting Chicago for the day, or I’ve spotted someone wearing an Olivet hoodie as I rushed through O’Hare International Airport. In northern Illinois, it’s rather hard to avoid connecting with at least some of the vast network of Olivet’s nearly 9,800 alumni who live in greater Chicagoland.

We probably don’t say it enough as an institution, but Olivet needs this community, and I know we’re forever grateful for the support of individuals, businesses, churches, nonprofits and governmental institutions that have continued to partner with us in creating a beautiful place to live and work. The neighborhood in which Olivet exists is full of life and opportunity for everyone — permanent and temporary residents included. And whether the community realizes it or not, the lasting impact of Olivet is pervasive and impactful.

In this neighborhood, we’re better together.

IT’S ABOUT TO GET PERSONAL

“We Believe. You Belong Here.” That’s not just a catchy saying; we truly want to help you succeed. At Olivet Nazarene University, integrating into community life starts with a personalized visit that can include any number of curated events. Once you enroll, you’ll select your unique academic path from more than 140 areas of study. When you graduate, you’ll be prepared to follow your dreams.

Olivet’s mission and degree programs are vital for today’s world and for Kankakee County.

Since 1939, Kankakee County and Olivet Nazarene University have been intertwined in all areas of economic, cultural, personal and professional growth. In this connection, both are experiencing exponential benefits while sharing resources and support.

TOGETHER ACROSS THE DECADES

Kankakee County grew from a settlement in the Kankakee River Valley in the 1820s to a thriving community just 50 miles south of metro Chicago. Olivet began in 1907 with the mission of “Education With a Christian Purpose” and continues today as a premier institution of Christian higher education. The University is consistently recognized as a College of Distinction and a Best Christian Workplace and is regularly ranked in the U.S. News & World Report Best Colleges annual report.

From 1940 to 2023, Kankakee County experienced a 74% increase in population. Today, the county is home to more than 105,000 residents in more than 17 communities. During that same time period, Olivet grew to today’s enrollment of more than 3,500 students from more than 40 states and 20 countries.

On the 275-acre campus in Bourbonnais, Olivet now includes 25 major buildings. Bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees are offered. There are more than 140 areas of study and more than 90 clubs and organizations. The Tiger athletic program includes 23 intercollegiate teams for men and women. The Roaring Tiger Battalion is one of the top ROTC programs in the nation.

Many athletic, cultural and Christian events at Olivet are open to the public, and Kankakee County residents participate often and enthusiastically. During the days of the Chicago Bears training camp at Olivet (2001−2019), local businesses were staunch supporters of the event. Fans from area communities joined in the excitement.

Shine.FM — one of the top Christian music networks in the country — is a ministry of Olivet, broadcasting 24/7 on air and online. The network also includes Brilla.FM, Spark HD and Shine Worship. Kankakee County residents were the first beyond the Olivet community to receive and enjoy Shine.FM’s programming via radio broadcasts.

The Grove in Bourbnonnais has become an ideal location for community and Olivet to cross-brand their shared love for events, recreation and community.

DOING SOMETHING GOOD TOGETHER

Since 2021, Riverside has given two $1,000 scholarships to two ROTC students who are pursuing careers in nursing or biology. Riverside is a Military Friendly-designated organization. This is one way Riverside demonstrates its commitment to investing in young military service men and women.

WORKING TOGETHER FOR THE GREATER GOOD Olivet students come to Kankakee County from around the world. Many graduates put down deep roots and touch multiple facets of community life: education, entrepreneurship, health care, spiritual formation and much more.

PARTNERSHIP WITH RIVERSIDE HEALTHCARE GROWS

Two new two-year tuition scholarships are designed to benefit Kankakee County, Riverside Healthcare and Olivet students. These scholarships, funded by a generous donation from Riverside, will be available for Olivet’s junior and senior nursing students starting in fall 2025. Tuition can vary based on other scholarships a student may have. This scholarship will cover any remaining tuition for the junior and senior years, including full tuition if the recipient has no other scholarships. Recipients agree to work at Riverside in their junior and senior years, minimally, on a temporary relief basis (two eight-hour shifts monthly) until graduation. In addition, recipients agree to work at Riverside for three years postgraduation.

“This is a lead partnership toward Olivet’s local scholarship goal,” said Susan Wolff ’94/’06 MBA, Olivet’s associate vice president for institutional advancement. “Making these connections with our local community is a top priority for the University.”

As the many connections between Olivet and Kankakee County businesses and residents continue to develop, the Christian service connections are growing, too. Olivet students, faculty and staff — and often their family members — have provided and will continue to provide countless hours of volunteer service in local communities. Projects include community music performances, assistance with tax return preparation, cleanup of parks and recreational areas, mentoring local youth, providing marketing assistance to local small businesses, English/Spanish interpretation services and so much more.

In addition, Olivet students are enjoying the benefits of dynamic internship and shadowing opportunities with local businesses. Students work alongside professionals in the police department, schools, health care agencies, athletics and many other places.

And what about economic impact? Internships, scholarships, employment, business start-up opportunities and an active chamber of commerce are some of the many benefits available to Olivet >

students and graduates in Kankakee County. Local business leaders continue to benefit from the wealth of education and business services available to them through the University, including advanced degree programs.

Olivet students and graduates are working alongside Kankakee County professionals in almost every area of business and service, including nursing and health care, social work, education and ministry. They are starting local businesses and bolstering nonprofits, buying houses and shopping retail, dining out and ordering in, and attracting attention to the economic opportunities in Kankakee County.

MOVING FORWARD TOGETHER

With the goal of building new connections while continuing and strengthening connections already built, Olivet is partnering with local businesses and residents in creating leaders for the future.

A strong and vibrant Olivet Nazarene University is critical for the health and longevity of communities, churches and families and also for the future of our country and our world.

Specifically, the focus of this initiative is on funding three areas of Olivet’s educational mission:

1. Establishing more scholarships to encourage students to “Start Local, Finish Local” for completing their degree programs at Olivet, including transfer students from Kankakee Community College — Total Goal: $500,000.

2. Improving and updating Chalfant Hall on Olivet’s campus in Bourbonnais — Total Goal: $250,000.

3. Continuing to enrich community life, fuel creativity and expression, and lift the human spirit through Olivet’s fine arts program — Total Goal: $250,000.

ONU instilled in us a commitment to purpose and community, and staying in Kankakee County allowed us to carry that forward.

We saw real potential here — in the people, the partnerships and the opportunity to build something meaningful. That decision has fueled both the growth of our businesses and a deep sense of connection to the place we’re proud to call home.

Joe Mantarian ’16

B.S., Multimedia Studies-TV/Video Production Photographer and Videographer, Joe Mantarian Creative

Michaela (Maris) Mantarian ’16/’18

B.A., Christian Education; M.A., Christian Ministry Florist

ABOUT THE STRENGTH & HOPE CAMPAIGN

The Strength & Hope Campaign is a bold step of faith to equip the next generation of Christian leaders in business, health care, education, media, communication, government, the sciences, the arts, the Church and every aspect of life. Now, more than ever, Olivet’s mission is to provide an “Education With a Christian Purpose.”

Olivet’s mission and degree programs are vital for today’s world. From the expansive academic curriculum to a commitment to nurturing Christian faith alongside knowledge, Olivet is dedicated to empowering students to succeed and make a difference in the world.

Olivet has a particular brand of higher education: dedication to loving God and loving students. This is not only crucial for our world but also a cultural counterpoint. Olivet’s optimistic, winsome, grace-andtruth approach to university life and higher education is not easy to find. A strong and vibrant Olivet is critical for the health and longevity of communities, churches and families and also for the future of our country and our world.

Learn more about Olivet’s history, degree programs and community connections at Olivet.edu.

2025 UPDATED ECONOMIC IMPACT STUDY

Dr. Paul Koch, professor emeritus in Olivet’s McGraw School of Business, is currently conducting an intense and comprehensive study of the economic impact of Olivet’s presence in Kankakee County. Results of this study are scheduled to be released in September 2025.

IMPLAN is the software tool making this possible. IMPLAN is the leading provider of economic impact data and analytical applications for researchers, policy makers, decision makers, advocates, business leaders, governments and more. Originally created by academics for the U.S. Forest Service, IMPLAN has been redefining the field of economics for over 40 years.

Dr. Koch is defining parameters and gathering data about expenditures by Olivet faculty and staff members for goods and services in the community and the direct and indirect effects on the local economy. IMPLAN builds the model, and Dr. Koch inputs the data. IMPLAN adds data gathered from 19 different governmental sources, including the U.S. Department of Labor and Department of Commerce.

Early findings based on 2023 census data show that Olivet’s presence continues to make a significant impact in Kankakee County. One key area of measurement is the induced effect, which captures what happens when Olivet employees — as well as the businesses that supply the University and their suppliers — spend their earnings in the local economy. This spending flows through households and businesses, fueling activity across many industries. This study is already showing that in 2023 alone, this type of economic ripple effect brought an estimated $21.2 million in value to Kankakee County.

“The key theme is value added,” Dr. Koch says. “We are looking for the local multiplier effect. For every dollar spent by those employed by Olivet, directly and indirectly, what is the resulting additional amount of economic activity, production of goods and services? The IMPLAN software is helping us discover that information.”

This is the third economic study Dr. Koch has done for Olivet. The first was in 2000 and was part of a capital campaign to raise funds for the Admissions Center and Weber Center on Olivet’s campus. The second was in 2015, coinciding with Olivet’s 75th anniversary of locating in Kankakee County.

RIVERSIDE AND OLIVET WORKING TOGETHER

A dynamic connection between Olivet and Riverside Healthcare continues to benefit many students, professors, medical personnel and patients in Kankakee County. Take a look at some of the recent highlights:

Olivet is partnering with Riverside to provide social work and nursing students with the internships and clinicals they need to complete their degree programs.

“This is a long-standing, fruitful relationship that benefits Olivet students greatly and often results in students getting hired for jobs locally,” says Dr. Amber Residori ’93/’17 Ed.D., dean of the College of Professional Studies. “Our nursing program leaders and I meet with Riverside’s leadership team, typically on a quarterly basis, to ensure we are maintaining a strong relationship. We also want to gain feedback on how our students are performing in practice and enhance our curriculum, if necessary.”

The Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) Immersion course at Olivet was born out of these meetings. Riverside provided helpful feedback on skills that FNP graduates could enhance. Dr. Suzanne Phipps ’16 Ed.D., professor and director of Olivet’s MSN/ FNP program, took that feedback and created an immersion course. At this two-day, in-person course, FNP students get hands-on practice with live models and return demonstrations to enhance their technical skills.

Riverside Healthcare’s partnership with Olivet’s Biology Department and Exercise and Sports Science Department is providing a three-tier experience in the realities of healthcare careers for biology majors pursuing pre-med.

“We want to find more ways for Olivet students to experience a variety of areas within the hospital and get firsthand experiences in their areas of interest,” Dr. Residori says. “We’re investing in Olivet students with the hope that they will remain in Kankakee County or return here after earning advanced degrees.”

Scholarships for Local Olivet Graduate Students

Employees of Olivet’s local business partners are now eligible for a 20% tuition discount on bachelor’s and master’s degree programs through Olivet. They can also receive a 10% discount on the Doctoral of Ethical Leadership (Ed.D.) degree program.

Local business partners of Olivet include:

• Cigna Healthcare

• CSL Behring

• McDonald’s

• NUCOR Steel

• Ozinga Bros., Inc.

• Waste Management

• Riverside Medical Center

• The Salvation Army

• Bishop McNamara Catholic School

• Bourbonnais Elementary School District 53

• Bradley-Bourbonnais Community High School

• Herscher Community Unit School District 2

• Grant Park High School

• Grace Christian Academy

• Kankakee Area Career Center

Since the list of partners may change, employees are encouraged to check with their employers about the company’s or organization’s status as an Olivet business partner.

Also eligible are local firefighters and law enforcement officers, retired or active duty, and retired, inactive or active-duty U.S. military personnel.

THE INTERNSHIP CONNECTION

For decades, Olivet Nazarene University student internships with Kankakee County businesses and organizations have strengthened many connections. Students from a variety of majors — including communication, social work, nursing, education, ministry and engineering — have been welcomed by professional teams to learn more about their future careers. In the process, students grow, and professionals regain some of their enthusiasm for their work.

Erin Fagan ’25 holds a bachelor’s degree in public relations and strategic communication from ONU. While a student, she did an internship with United Way of Kankakee & Iroquois Counties in the summer of 2024. She continues to appreciate the many professional connections she made during that time.

“I learned how to engage with the community and also with people personally during my internship with United Way,” Erin says. “My confidence in myself and in my personal actions with people grew tremendously. The United Way staff — including Mariah Vail, Tammy Marcotte and Melina Pizano — and their purposeful and passionate approach to serving people helped me grow as a professional. I learned a lot from them about how to connect with real people and real situations in our community.”

Since graduation, Erin has pursued her goal of becoming a public librarian. She works at the Clarendon Hills Public Library in Illinois. In fall 2025, she will begin her master’s degree program in library and information science while continuing to work at the library.

“Because of my internship at United Way, I know so much more about how to serve my community well,” Erin says. “The skills I learned there will serve me well in my future career.”

CONNECTING KANKAKEE COUNTY WITH EXCELLENCE IN THE FINE ARTS

Olivet is committed to presenting the best in performance and visual arts through its fine arts curriculum. Each year, the University invites area residents to attend a wide variety of music and other cultural offerings, including theatre, music, visual arts and digital arts.

Dr. Don Reddick ’79 and Dr. Dena Reddick ’82 are leading a new emphasis to continue this excellence through support from Friends of the Fine Arts at Olivet.

“Olivet changed my life and Dena’s life, first as students and then professionally,” Dr. Don Reddick says. “We are thankful for all the opportunities we’ve had and all the wonderful people we’ve worked with. Most of all, we are thankful for the blessings we’ve had in seeing Olivet students succeed in and enjoy music. Through Friends of the Fine Arts, we are helping to provide opportunities for Olivet alumni and friends to fund what people rarely think about funding.”

Kankakee community leader Yvonne Chalfant ’93/’97 MBA, underscores the importance of Olivet’s fine arts contributions for enriching life in Kankakee County.

“I’m so proud of Olivet’s School of Music, especially at the holiday season,” Yvonne says. “My friends in the community want to know when the music events will be so they can make plans to come and bring their families. Sounds of the Season, Messiah and the Ovid Young Memorial Organ Recital Series have really made an impact on our community. How fortunate we are to have Centennial Chapel and to give our community access to it. For example, when the Kankakee Valley Symphony Orchestra performs in this building, they are performing in a world-class venue. All of this makes me proud of Olivet.”

I put down my first roots in Kankakee County during my senior year at ONU. My professor encouraged me to enter a Kankakee County Chamber of Commerce competition called EnterpriseU, which gave me the chance to attend classes with local entrepreneurs. As I got to know people who were developing their own businesses, I was impressed by how passionate they were about living and working in Kankakee County.

“When I had the chance to take a job here, I was excited to make Kankakee my home, too. I love that I can sit in a coffee shop for an hour and, without fail, run into at least one person I know. Many of the people from this area who helped me get started in my first year postgrad are still key people in my life and work today.

“I now serve as the executive director of United Way of Kankakee & Iroquois Counties. This is my dream job, and I can’t picture doing this work anywhere else. As the proverb says, ‘A society grows great when old men plant trees whose shade they know they shall never sit in.’ I truly believe we are building something great here, and I am excited to be a part of it.

Mariah (Garratt) Vail ’17/’19

B.S., Business Administration and Marketing; MBA Executive Director, United Way of Kankakee and Iroquois Counties

It all started in Bourbonnais, Illinois. Now, Olivet Nazarene University reaches all 50 states and six continents, with a worldwide network of more than 50,000 living alumni.

Gayle and Barry Huebner have opened their home and hearts to Olivet Nazarene University students for nearly two decades. “You get back what you invest. And we’ve received a lot,” Gayle says.

HOME AWAY FROM HOME

Gayle and Barry Huebner

Barry and Gayle Huebner both grew up in sizable families, and although they didn’t necessarily expect to have a large family of their own, their struggles to get pregnant were disappointing. They were married in their mid-20s but spent over a decade together without children. However, both Barry and Gayle were passionate about fostering a familial environment in their community. In their onebedroom house in the north suburbs of Chicago, they frequently hosted family, friends, friends of friends and, at times, practical strangers.

“We often joked that people would show up with a pile of kids and broken-down cars, which was just fine for us,” Barry reflects. “Gayle would cook a big meal, and I would fix the cars.”

Gayle adds, “At the time, it helped focus us. That was our way of expanding our borders and fulfilling those things in our life that we longed for.”

Eventually, Barry and Gayle welcomed two daughters to their family, Elizabeth ’13 and Christina ’17. They cherished the time together as a family of four, but they were still very intentional about opening their home to whoever needed a meal or a bed.

In 1996 Barry accepted a new management role within Midwest Transit and, with no prior connections to the area, the family moved to Bourbonnais and began to establish new roots. Because the Huebners came from a larger city environment, the opportunities in a much smaller community felt a little limited, but they were confident in their decision. A member from their former church suggested they check out College Church to get connected with people in the community.

“Almost right away, Gayle volunteered with children’s ministry at church, and I had the opportunity to cohost a home group for college students,” Barry says.

Through the years ...

2000–2004

2000–2004

Home groups were a unique small-group ministry for Olivet students to connect weekly with each other and local families during the late 1990s and early 2000s. After Barry co-hosted with another individual for a year, the Huebners decided to open their home for Sunday night gatherings. Gayle’s children’s ministry schedule still conflicted with the home group time, so Barry led the group of sophomores alone for a year. The Huebners didn’t know it then, but that decision would lead to 16 consecutive years of college-aged ministry.

Barry and Gayle did more than just open their home for a Bible study; they invited students to integrate into their family. When their first home group of students was entering their junior year, Gayle heard that most of the group would be living in campus apartments, and she was appalled at the idea that the students wouldn’t be able to eat on campus.

“I thought they’d all starve,” Gayle says with a laugh. “So, I decided to cook a big dinner for everyone when they came over on Sunday nights. The numbers quickly doubled, and it was a long time before anyone admitted that Ludwig was still an option for dinner.”

On numerous occasions, individual students would linger to chat with Barry or Gayle or come early for a quiet place to study or do their laundry — when it wasn’t free yet on campus. When Elizabeth and Christina were students at Olivet, they both brought over groups of friends for pool days, movie nights, Super Bowl parties, costume-making for the Candy Costume Party at Olivet and, of course, meaningful conversations over a delicious meal.

Sometimes, students stayed at the Huebners’ house for a month over the summer while doing a campus job. Other times, the family opened their home to individuals who were working on a master’s program at Olivet or who were starting their careers in the area and needed a long-term place to stay.

“Two of our core values are faith and education,” Barry says, “and Olivet’s mission lines up with those things perfectly. Over many years of hosting students and alumni, we saw Olivet through the eyes of the kids in our homes.”

Home groups were a unique small-group ministry for Olivet students to connect weekly with each other and local families during the late 1990s and 2000s.

2004–2008

Gayle adds, “Having Olivet students or young alumni live with us was something that just kind of started. But once people figured it out, we had people ask all the time about the possibility of living with us.”

The house rules were simple: If you were staying, you were part of the family. That meant eating dinner together, taking care of your own dishes, contributing around the house and being respectful about when you were coming and going.

“Why we continued to host people for so many years is because we saw the end result,” Gayle reflects. “We watched that first group graduate and saw the doctors-, nurses-, psychologists- and teachers-to-be cross the stage. We knew their faith would take them even further than their academic preparation.”

From students’ varying majors to their varying passions and interests, the Huebners saw it all throughout the years.

“Every four years, a different generation of kids came through our house,” Barry says. “We went from hosting the practical jokers to the social activists — and we saw how the University responded to

different situations through their perspectives. Most importantly, over time spent with each group, we got to see the kids’ faith grow.”

Barry is retired, and he and Gayle now spend a significant amount of time with their own grandchildren. But they still love to host scores of their bonus “kids” at their lake house in Michigan and during Homecoming reunion years when families return to Olivet. The first of the home group “grandchildren” has completed their first year in college, and many more are starting their college search. The Huebners anticipate that at least a few will choose Olivet and, with no firm plans in place, they are ready to open their home for another few classes of Olivet students who need a home away from home.

“It doesn’t have to be formal, and you don’t have to host 15 at a time,” Gayle says about how to invest in the lives of University students. “If you meet a student, offer to take them for lunch. It’s as easy as that. The important thing is to invest the time in people. You get back what you invest. And we’ve received a lot.”

THE ARTS AT OLIVET

Beyond the humanities courses of the liberal arts curriculum that students at Olivet Nazarene University are required to take, many students choose to engage further in the arts through rigorous academic study and/or extracurricular participation in music ensembles, art courses, and theatrical and dance performances. This wide spectrum of vibrant opportunities allows students and the community to interact with rich cultural activities in stunning campus venues.

Making a Joyful Noise Music has been a core element of both the academic and social threads at Olivet since the inception of the University in 1907. Popular ensembles such as Orpheus Choir and the University Orchestra have provided entertainment and atmosphere to enhance prominent University events such as the annual Commencement Ceremony, chapel services, and football and basketball games from the start. Proclamation Gospel Choir, Jazz Band, Concert Singers, Concert Band and Steel Drum Band round out the soundtrack to life at Olivet.

Beyond campus events, many Olivet music ensembles regularly travel throughout the United States and around the world to perform. For example, the ONU Marching Tigers have performed at prestigious global events, including the London New Year’s Day Parade for the queen of England, Inauguration Day in Washington, D.C., and the New Year’s Day Parade in Rome, Italy. The Concert Singers ensemble has sung in Greece and Paraguay, and Orpheus Choir has traveled to India and Puerto Rico.

Two annual events, Sounds of the Season and a performance of Handel’s Messiah, combine the talents of almost every voice, instrument and conductor within the School of Music to produce breathtaking performances that fill Centennial Chapel each December. These holiday season concerts are open to the public, and many families have integrated the concerts into their Christmastime traditions.

For students who are interested in studying music, the School of Music at Olivet offers seven majors, minors and concentrations, which are accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music. Throughout their college years, students in the School of Music have multiple recital and concert opportunities to showcase the progression of their talents. Seniors perform individual capstone recitals to demonstrate their musical proficiency and cultivated artistry. Scholarship opportunities are available for all incoming students, regardless of their area of study.

The Shape of Things

Engaging visual media created for and by Olivet students enhance learning and social environments all across campus. Dedicated gallery spaces in the Kevin and Judith Sims Educational Center, Weber Center, Benner Library and the on-campus Starbucks café showcase the visual media for other students, campus visitors and the general public to enjoy. Additionally, the Victorian House Gallery is used for visiting alumni and guest artists to display collections of their work.

The consistent theme that connects all facets of the arts at Olivet is a desire to create meaningful connections based on a shared experience.

Students who choose to study art may pursue a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree, with specialization options including drawing, painting, ceramics, graphic design, media arts, photography or art education, or a Bachelor of Arts degree. During their senior year, art students propose a capstone thesis project to demonstrate their creative skills, technical knowledge and ability to craft a collection based on a cohesive theme. Once the proposal passes faculty review, students present an artist statement at a reception that recognizes their hard work.

Students in any academic discipline are invited to take art classes as electives and can participate in the creation of TYGR, an annual art and literary magazine that is published by students with the assistance of faculty advisers.

All the World’s a Stage

From historical accounts that are grounded in reality to fantastical otherworldly narratives, ONU Theatre engages audiences of all ages through entertaining and thought-provoking storytelling. Under the direction of professor Kelsie Davis ’19/’22 MBA, the department each year presents a fall play, a spring musical that is co-produced by the School of Music, and a weekend of one-act plays. The rest of the annual season is supplemented by Green Room Theatre Company, a student-run organization that typically produces two to four additional shows.

Performances are showcased on stage in the Theatre at Sims, a recently renovated black box-style venue, or in Kresge Auditorium in Larsen Fine Arts Center.

Opportunities to perform, direct, choreograph, design sets, program lights, run sound, design costumes and work backstage are open to all students, regardless of their major. However, students who are interested in pursuing a theatrical career can choose to major or minor in theatre production and performance.

Two annual events, the New Works Festival and Professional Theatre Conference, provide students with settings to flex their individual creativity and honed skills in collaborative environments that encourage constructive criticism alongside networking opportunities with industry professionals.

Creative Connection

The consistent theme that connects all facets of the arts at Olivet is a desire to create meaningful connections based on a shared experience of music, visual art or theatre. Faculty in each discipline are subject-matter experts who possess a combination of academic achievement and years of dedicated personal practice and artistic exploration. They generously share their cultivated skills and knowledge with students in classroom environments, large ensemble rehearsals, group art critiques, sectionals and one-on-one lessons and mentoring sessions. In turn, students are encouraged to collaborate on projects, performances and productions that display purposeful design and professional execution in preparation for careers that reflect a Kingdom mindset.

GRADUATE PROGRAMS

Ed.D. in Ethical Leadership

Lead with purpose as you pursue this doctoral degree. Graduate in as little as 32 months, and complete your dissertation while taking your coursework. Whether you are an educator, nurse, pastor, administrator, entrepreneur, police officer, business owner or leader in any other area, Olivet Nazarene University’s online doctoral degree will open doors of significant opportunity for you.

Next cohort enrolls Oct. 27

Nursing

Advance your nursing career through Olivet’s accredited nursing school. Combining online theory courses and hands-on clinical experience, these programs create an accelerated path for nurses at any stage of their career. Olivet offers both Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN-BSN) and Master of Science in Nursing (MSN-FNP, Education and Transformational Leadership).

Nursing cohorts enroll Sept. 1, Oct. 27, March 2 and April 2

Theology and Christian Ministry

Olivet offers 10 master’s degrees for ministry professionals in two categories: Practical and Preparatory. Practical degrees prepare leaders for specific ministry contexts such as urban ministry or family ministry. Preparatory degrees provide students with a comprehensive, robust theological, Biblical and practical application.

Next cohorts begin Jan. 15

Business

Offering both the Master of Business Administration (MBA) and Master of Organizational Leadership (MOL), Olivet’s business programs provide you with your clearest path to purpose and opportunity. Affordably priced under $15,000, these flexible programs can be comlpleted in 12, 18 or 24 months — whichever is most convenient for you. You choose your specialization to customize your degree to your personal and professional goals. Choose from specializations like Corporate Communications, Healthcare Leadership, Nonprofit Management, Sport Management or Leadership.

MBA and MOL cohorts enroll Sept. 1, Oct. 27, Jan. 5, March 2 and April 27

Education

Olivet’s graduate programs in education are relevant, current and designed to meet the needs of the adult learner and the demands of your educational environment. The Master of Arts in Education (MAE) offers specializations in Curriculum and Instruction as well as Reading Specialist. Other endorsement programs include ESL, Bilingual, Learning Behavior Specialist I, Reading, and Safety and Driver’s Ed.

Education cohorts enroll Sept. 1, Oct. 27, March 2 and April 27

GRADUATE STUDIES RENEW AND REFRESH MINISTRY PROFESSIONALS

PHILLIP MODLIN ’24 M.A.

Lead Pastor

Amplify Church

Willow Spring, North Carolina

“Our church was growing so quickly, and I needed a connection point to help me determine my next level of leadership,” Pastor Phillip Modlin says. “At probably the busiest time in my life, after 20 years in ministry and with five kids at home, I enrolled in the Master of Arts in Missional Multiplication degree program at Olivet Nazarene University. That turned out to be one of the best things I’ve ever done.”

Phillip is the lead pastor for Amplify Church in North Carolina. Amplify seeks to equip people to live out their God-given purpose and amplify the beauty of Jesus to a broken world. Founded in 1939, the church relocated to a new neighborhood in 2020 — with Phillip’s leadership — and grew from 300 to 1,300 people in five years.

What are the distinctives of ONU’s degree program for you?

“This was my first experience with online learning, and I really liked it. The program is well organized and designed to pull the students together well. Dr. Jeff Stark of ONU continually challenged us as our professor. He is an academic who also serves churches in the real world. His vulnerability and ability were unexpected benefits for me.”

How has this degree program influenced your life and ministry?

“In my studies at ONU, I learned how to prioritize my responsibilities and activities, how to lead well, and how to take care of myself in the process. The rhythms I built for success in my degree program continue to be the rhythms for the other areas of my life. Now, I’m much better at leading my congregation in what we care about. I also do a better job of learning from people I don’t always agree with.”

What is becoming clearer to you as a person and a professional?

“Mission and passion to serve can outpace reality. What I want to do can overtake what I should do or need to do. Through my degree program, I learned how to make sure that what God is doing around me doesn’t eat away at what He is doing in me.”

MELONY PAULUS ’24 M.A.

Co-Pastor

Valley Mission Church of the Nazarene Bedford, Indiana

“I wanted to pursue an advanced degree without putting a strain on my family and ministry,” says Pastor Melony Paulus, co-pastor of Valley Mission Church of the Nazarene in Indiana. “With ONU’s generous discount for pastors, I enrolled in ONU’s Master of Arts program in August 2022. I quickly became aware that Missional Multiplication was the emphasis I needed for my ministry.”

Valley Mission Church is a place where people can be more, do more, love more. As a Great Commission church and part of the global community of faith, this church takes the Good News of life in Jesus Christ to people everywhere. Melony co-pastors this church with her husband, Pastor John Paulus.

What are the distinctives of ONU’s degree program for you?

“The Master of Arts in Missional Multiplication is not offered by very many universities. In addition, I’m also simultaneously working on my M.Div. with ONU and will finish both degrees in 2026. This course of study is challenging my thought processes. Even though the program is all online, we still have face-to-face conversations, discussions and debates. Interacting with humans rather than with an electronic device is a blessing.”

“I’m passionate about reaching out to our community, and that is a gift I’ve received from this degree program. I didn’t understand the importance of that before now. Our churches need an in-filling of what it means to love well inside and what it means to love well outside and how to bring both worlds together. Every pastor should go through this program because its content is important for every ministry.”

What is becoming clearer to you as a person and a professional?

“During my time at ONU, I have learned the value of mentoring children and adults, of coming alongside people and helping them understand new ways of thinking. I currently mentor eight women in their areas of ministry. In addition, our church is in our third year offering what we call Wiggly Wednesday. During Wiggly Wednesday, we provide meals, activities and a Bible lesson. We have seen over 100 different children, with a weekly attendance of up to 50 children. Our Wiggly Wednesday has recently expanded to include tutoring for up to 25 children from our local elementary school. My studies at ONU are shaping, refining and challenging me in ways that are immensely impacting my ministry. I have a deeper understanding of the value of learning, growing and being challenged.”

DYLAN ROBINSON

Lead Pastor and Co-Founder

The Well Church

Springfield, Missouri

“I had enrolled two other times at other graduate schools, but the timing just wasn’t right for me,” says Pastor Dylan Robinson, lead pastor and co-founder of The Well Church in Missouri. “While I was at a conference, I asked God to give me a connection for pursuing my master’s degree. I met Dr. Jeff Stark at the ONU booth and called him the next week. He became my trusted source and gave me the peace I needed to start the Master of Arts in Missional Multiplication degree program at ONU.”

Planted in 2017 with Dylan and Pastor Selena Freeman as founders, The Well Church now has two campuses in Springfield and Marshfield, Missouri. A church for all people, this is a church where people are found by the grace of God, filled by the power of the Holy Spirit and freed to love like Christ. Today, there are more than 1,400 people who call The Well church their church home.

What was your motivation for pursuing this degree at this time in your life?

“I’ve gotten my education along the way during my ministry. After we planted The Well Church, I knew there was more I needed to know. I knew I needed to deepen my education and learn as much as I can.”

How is this degree program influencing your life and ministry?

“I’m applying what I’m learning in my local context with a theological framework, and I’m implementing what I’m learning. This program is more than just completing assignments and classes. We’re evaluating what we’re doing in real-life applications and getting better as we’re doing that.”

What is becoming clearer to you as a person and a professional?

“I don’t know as much as I think I do, and I haven’t done as much as I think I’ve done. God radically transformed my life when I was 16. The Holy Spirit keeps revealing to me that we need to get back to the basics and be a light to the neighbors around us. That is a surprisingly convicting process.”

ADVANCED DEGREES THAT INSPIRE

Olivet Nazarene University believes in education for ministry professionals and offers several advanced degree programs for students to pursue a graduate-level education. The graduate programming of the School of Theology and Christian Ministry exists “to educate, equip, and resource the Church and her leaders to bear faithful witness to the Kingdom of God through the work of ministry and theological reflection.” The School accomplishes this mission by providing an excellent education at an affordable price. Substantial discounts are available for pastoral and ministry leaders.

Practical

These degrees are designed to prepare leaders for specific ministry contexts while addressing pertinent cultural issues:

• Master of Arts in Pastoral Leadership

• Master of Arts in Missional Multiplication

• Master of Arts in Urban Ministry

• Master of Arts in Family Ministry

Preparatory

These degrees are designed to provide students with a comprehensive, robust theological, Biblical and practical application:

• Master of Arts in Ministerial Studies

• Master of Arts in Christian Ministry

• Master of Ministry

• Master of Arts in Religion

• Master of Ministry in Spanish

• Doctor of Education: Ethical Leadership

The Master of Divinity degree can be paired with several ONU degrees, providing an opportunity to earn two graduate degrees through study at ONU.

For more information and to enroll in ONU’s graduate degree programs, call us at 800-638-1463 or email Admissions@Olivet.edu.

SECURING THE FUTURE

The Vital Role of Endowments in Higher Education

In today’s higher education landscape, university endowments are more critical than ever before. These permanent funds provide a steady source of financial support for scholarships, faculty, facilities and mission-aligned initiatives. A strong endowment demonstrates how disciplined growth, clear priorities and donor trust can transform an institution’s future.

Why Endowments Matter

Endowments serve as financial engines for universities, powering everything from annual scholarships to program enhancements. A wellmanaged endowment generates stable, long-term revenue, enabling predictable annual support; helps fund initiatives such as programs, endowed faculty positions and student scholarships; and encourages confidence from donors and partners, reinforcing a university’s sustainability.

Most importantly, endowments ensure that a gift made today continues to support students and programs in perpetuity.

The Olivet Foundation: Fueled by Donor Support and Investment Growth

Founded in 1969, The Olivet Foundation exists to support the mission of Olivet Nazarene University through responsible management and growth of its endowed funds.

While student scholarships remain the cornerstone of endowment giving, program support continues to be an area of expanded focus — a move that enhances the University’s academic competitiveness and student experience. The most recent 12-month report ending June 30, 2025, illustrates a period of exceptional momentum.

The University has seen a transformational $2.9 million in new endowed gifts for program support, including funding for the chair of the School of Engineering, reflecting a growing interest in academic program endowments. A record $3.3 million in new

gifts has been given for student scholarships. The number of endowed accounts with over $100,000 has grown from 66 to 147 in the past decade — with nine of them exceeding $1 million. Additionally, the Foundation achieved an impressive 15% return in 2024, following a 17% return in 2023. Even amid recent market turbulence, it has maintained a 7.5% return over the past 12 months, showing consistent growth and resilience. And, over the last decade, net assets have more than doubled even after annual distributions, underscoring the Foundation’s longterm sustainability.

Donor support and strong financial performance have enabled The Olivet Foundation to make a meaningful impact on the lives of students for decades. And, for the 2025–2026 academic year, the Foundation will distribute a record $2 million-plus for scholarships and an additional $480,000 for program support.

Looking Ahead

Because of faithful ministry partners, The Olivet Foundation is well positioned to make a lasting impact for generations to come. An endowed gift is more than a financial contribution; it is a powerful expression of faith, vision and lasting generosity. Whether directed toward scholarships, academic programs or faculty positions, these investments exemplify how mission-driven stewardship can shape lives now and into the future.

To explore how you can leave a legacy through an endowed gift and further Olivet’s Christ-centered mission, contact the Office of Development at Development@Olivet.edu or 815-939-5171

Dr. Walter “Woody” Webb ’86/’88 M.A./’04 D.Litt. has more than 35 years of experience in higher education and serves as the director of planned and estate giving at Olivet Nazarene University.

ALUMNI THE CLASSES

1994L

Eric Johnson, Ph.D. ’94 was appointed to the Victor Mills Society at Procter & Gamble. The top 0.1% of research scientists receive this appointment. He has been recognized for his innovation footprint and significant impact in product development representing over $5 billion in global annual sales. He adds value through collaboration in coaching, mentoring, teaching and inspiring others. He and his wife, Ann ’95, reside in Cincinnati, Ohio, along with their son, Nathan ’22, and daughter, Sarah ’25.

2002L

Anthony “Tony” ’02 and Colleen (Baker) ’03 Mason, along with their seven children, will be joining Training Leaders International as global partners in the fall. Tony will be graduating with an M.A. in Bible and theology from Union University in August 2025. He is currently a pastor/elder at Vintage Church in Horn

Lake, Mississippi. Tony will be training and equipping local pastors and church leaders in the Hawaiian Islands while expanding Oahu Theological Seminary to the Big Island (Hawaii Island), where the Masons will live and serve.

2014L

De’Niece Harrison-Hudson ’14, community affairs director for OneAmerica Financial, was honored with the ASPIRE Excellence in Execution award, the highest honor for an associate in the company. As director of the OneAmerica Financial Pathways Program, she has led the engagement of over 3,000 youth in the Indianapolis area. The Pathways Program removes barriers and connects young adults with personal, business and community resources to help them and their families thrive. De’Niece resides in Indianapolis.

JOHNSON MASON

GARDNER

2015L

Jessica (Morey) ’15 and David Gardner Jr. ’17/’19 MDiv/’21 are thrilled to announce the birth of their third child, Henry Bradley. Henry joins a big brother, Walter, and a big sister, Madison. Just two days before Henry’s arrival, David was ordained as an elder in the Church of the Nazarene in Indianapolis.

SUBMIT YOUR CLASS NOTE to OlivetEditors@Olivet.edu or online at Olivet.edu/class-notes

2019L

John ’19 and Macy (Lemke) ’20 Richardson are excited to announce the birth of their son, Cooper Grant, born Feb. 25, 2025.

2020L

Kaitlyn Elmer ’20 earned a Ph.D. in biomedical engineering from the University of Arkansas in December 2024. She is currently serving as an adjunct professor at John Brown University while she continues as a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Arkansas.

RICHARDSON

NOTABLE PASSINGS

Lyle Schoenwetter ’58

Nov. 6, 1930–Feb. 19, 2025 Rushville, Illinois

Evelyn (Gray) Schwob ’59

July 14, 1937–April 19, 2025 Goshen, Indiana

James “Jim” Edwards ’61

Sept. 20, 1935–May 3, 2025

Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

Daniel Ingram ’61

July 28, 1938–May 19, 2025 Mt. Pleasant, Michigan

James “Dave” Stanford ’62

April 28, 1934–March 24, 2025 Beavercreek, Ohio

Delmar Lafevor ’67

Aug. 24, 1945–May 9, 2025 Sanford, Michigan

Carol Frazier ’69

March 27, 1947–May 2, 2025 Bradley, Illinois

Donna Johnson-Heiman ’70

April 28, 1942–June 8, 2024 Braidwood, Illinois

Dorothy (Cosman) Heinrich ’70

Nov. 4, 1930–March 17, 2025 Bourbonnais, Illinois

Ann (Warrington) Williams ’70

Jan. 6, 1947–April 14, 2025 Gainesville, Florida

Miriam Kane ’72/’03 MAE

June 18, 1950–Feb. 8, 2025 Bradley, Illinois

Janice (Smith) Wakeman ’72

Feb. 12, 1950–March 16, 2025 Fowlerville, Michigan

Roberta (Callahan) Maudlin ’74

May 3, 1934–May 20, 2025 Watseka, Illinois

continued, next page

ALUMNI

Harry Carpenter ’75

Feb. 3, 1943–Jan. 30, 2025 Bourbonnais, Illinois

Charles Neville ’75

Jan. 11, 1944–April 9, 2025 Fernley, Nevada

Timothy Griffy ’77

Jan. 3, 1955–March 6, 2025 Columbia, Maryland

Dave Brotheridge ’79

Feb. 20, 1957–July 27, 2024 Prospect, Kentucky

Rev. Manuel “J.R.” Chavier Jr. ’80

Sept. 11, 1952–March 12, 2025 New Bedford, Massachusetts

Marjorie (Klepfer) Stegemoller ’80

Aug. 10, 1927–March 24, 2025 Indianapolis, Indiana

Bryan Sheets ’83

Sept. 28, 1960–May 29, 2025 Washington, Illinois

William Bowen ’85

Jan. 11, 1963–Dec. 31, 2024 Greensboro, North Carolina

Rebecca (Allen) Conner ’85

July 2, 1963–Apr. 21, 2025 Sarasota, Florida

Rev. Wilson Deaton ’85

March 16, 1960–Feb. 4, 2025 Wauwatosa, Wisconsin

Joy Walker ’86

Sept. 24, 1961–June 11, 2024 Downers Grove, Illinois

Donna “Dee” (Ghere) McCollum ’87 MAE

Aug. 2, 1946–March 17, 2025 River Falls, Wisconsin

Anita (Cobb) Glynn ’92

Nov. 16, 1953–April 30, 2025 Mt. Pleasant, Michigan

Robert McLurkin III ’98 MBA

March 2, 1950–March 22, 2025 Columbia, South Carolina

Patricia (Barth) Lord ’99

Oct. 19, 1939–April 30, 2025 Peoria, Illinois

NOTABLE PASSINGS

ALUMNI

Angela (Honold) Bies ’06 MEd

May 1, 1976–Feb. 25, 2025 Burlington, Wisconsin

Katherine “Katie” (Stroh) Brzuchowski ’06

Sept. 26, 1983–June 2, 2025 Paxton, Illinois

Joseph “Joe” Blaney ’12 Nov. 21, 1990–Jan. 19, 2025 Andover, Minnesota

Philip Acquaviva ’19

Aug. 22, 1986–Jan. 17, 2024 Lemont, Illinois

FACULTY

Darcel Brady

Emerita Faculty, School of Education

March 8, 1954–April 26, 2025 Richton Park, Illinois

FRIENDS OF OLIVET

Lula Collings

July 5, 1933–June 1, 2025 Clio, Michigan

Harold “Hal” Gortner Aug. 7, 2024 Bloomington, Indiana

Michaela Miller

March 27, 1989–Feb. 7, 2025 Anderson, Indiana

Stephen Street

April 8, 1951–April 3, 2024 Bourbonnais, Illinois

SUBMIT YOUR CLASS NOTE OR OBITUARY to OlivetEditors@Olivet.edu or online at Olivet.edu/class-notes

BY THE NUMBERS

VOLUMES IN ONU BENNER LIBRARY AND RESOURCE CENTER

INTERCOLLEGIATE ATHLETIC TEAMS

500+ students in music ensembles

3,332

INTRAMURAL SPORTS AND TOURNAMENTS WITH MORE THAN 1,540 PARTICIPANTS EAH YEAR

an n ual global and local mi s sion trips

AREAS OF STUDY

UNDERGRADUATE AREAS OF STUDY AND GRADUATE DEGREE PROGRAMS

COLLEGE OF ARTS AND SCIENCES

Art

Art – Studio Art

Art Education

Communication Studies

Corporate Communication

English

English as a Second Language

English as a Second Language Education

English Education

Geography

History

Leadership Studies

Legal Studies

Literature

Multimedia Communication

Multimedia Communication –Film Studies

Multimedia Communication –

Journalism

Multimedia Communication –

Live Event Media Management

Multimedia Communication –

Radio/Audio Media

Multimedia Communication –TV/Video Production

Musical Theatre

Photography

Political Science

Political Science – Public Policy

Pre-Art Therapy

Pre-Law

Psychology

Public Relations & Strategic Communication

Social Science Education

Sociology

Spanish

Spanish Education

Theatre Production & Performance

Writing

SCHOOL OF

MUSIC

Commercial Music

Music

Music – Composition

Music Education

Music – Performance

Music – Recording Arts

Worship Arts

WALKER SCHOOL OF SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY, ENGINEERING AND MATHEMATICS

Actuarial Science

Biology

Chemistry

Chemistry – Biochemistry

Chemistry – Earth/Environmental Chemistry

Chemistry – Forensics

Computer Science –Networking & Data

Communications

Computer Science –

Software Development

Computer Science –

Software Entrepreneurship

Computing Technology

Cybersecurity

Data Science

Earth & Space Science

Engineering – Architectural

Engineering – Chemical & Biochemical

Engineering – Civil

Engineering – Computer

Engineering – Electrical

Engineering – Mechanical

Environmental Science

Geological Science

Geological Science –Geochemistry

Geological Science –Geotechnical

Geological Science – Life Science

Mathematics

Mathematics Education

Physical Sciences

Pre-Dental

Pre-Medicine

Pre-Optometry

Pre-Pharmacy

Pre-Physician’s Assistant

Pre-Veterinary

Science Education – Biology

Science Education – Chemistry

Science Education – Earth/Space Science

Zoology

COLLEGE OF PROFESSIONAL STUDIES

Criminal Justice

Criminal Justice – Criminology

Criminal Justice –Law Enforcement

Health Education

Interior Design

Kinesiology

Kinesiology – Exercise Physiology

Kinesiology – Pre-Athletic Training

Kinesiology – Pre-Occupational Therapy

Kinesiology – Pre-Physical Therapy

Military Affairs

Military Science

Physical Education

Recreation & Sport Studies

Social Work

Sport Management

SCHOOL OF EDUCATION

Child Development

Early Childhood Education

Elementary Education

Special Education

Master of Arts in Education:

Curriculum and Instruction

Master of Arts in Education:

Educational Leadership

Master of Arts in Education:

Reading Specialist

Doctor of Education:

Ethical Leadership

MCGRAW SCHOOL OF BUSINESS

Accounting

Business – Human Resource Management

Business – Management

Business – Operations

Management

Business – Philanthropy/Not-forProfit

Business – Public Administration

Business Administration

Economics

Economics & Finance –

Applied Economics

Economics & Finance –

Certified Financial Planning

Economics & Finance –

Corporate Finance

Entrepreneurship

Finance

International Business

Management

Management Information Systems

Marketing

Marketing – Commercial

Graphics

Marketing – Corporate Relations

Marketing – International

Marketing – Management

Master of Business Administration

Master of Organizational Leadership

SCHOOL OF NURSING

Nursing

Master of Science in Nursing: Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)

Master of Science in Nursing: Education

Master of Science in Nursing: Transformational Leadership

RN to BSN

SCHOOL OF THEOLOGY AND CHRISTIAN MINISTRY

Biblical Languages

Biblical Studies

Children’s Ministry

Christian Education

Christian Ministry

Christian Studies

Greek

Hebrew

Intercultural Studies

Ministerial Missions

Pastoral Ministry

Philosophy

Philosophy & Religion

Pre-Seminary

Theology

Youth Ministry

Master of Arts: Christian Ministry

Master of Arts: Family Ministry

Master of Arts: Ministerial Studies

Master of Arts:

Missional Multiplication

Master of Arts: Pastoral Leadership

Master of Arts: Pastoral Ministry

Master of Arts: Religion

Master of Arts: Urban Ministry

Master of Divinity

Master of Ministry

Master of Ministry: Spanish

AT A GLANCE

STUDENTS

More than 3,200 (2,500 undergraduates) from nearly every U.S. state, 25 countries and more than 35 religious denominations.

ALUMNI

Olivet Nazarene University has graduated many notable alumni who have given back to the University, the Olivet region, the Church and the world in so many ways. There are more than 40,000 living alumni making a worldwide impact.

ACADEMICS

More than 200 areas of undergraduate study and graduate degrees, including the Doctor of Education: Ethical Leadership, offered on campus and online through the College of Arts and Sciences, College of Professional Studies and the School of Theology and Christian Ministry. Study-abroad opportunities have included Australia, China, Costa Rica, Ecuador, England, Egypt, Honduras, Romania, Japan, Uganda, Washington, D.C., and Los Angeles.

ACCREDITATION

Olivet Nazarene University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. Specialized accreditation includes the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, the Council on Social Work Education, Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics, the National Association of Schools of Music, and the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET. In addition, the Teacher Education program is recognized by the Illinois State Board of Education as an education preparation provider.

ATHLETICS

Home of the Tigers, Olivet Nazarene University fields 23 intercollegiate teams. Olivet provides competitive athletic awards and scholarships for qualifying candidates. Varsity teams for men include basketball, baseball, cheerleading, cross country, football, golf, soccer, swimming and diving, tennis, track and field, and volleyball. Varsity teams for women include basketball, cheerleading, cross country, golf, soccer, softball, swimming and diving, tennis, track and field, and volleyball. In addition to varsity sports, more than half the student body participate in Olivet’s thriving intramural and club sports programs.

COLLEGIATE IDENTITY

University Colors: Purple and gold Tagline and Motto: “Education With a Christian Purpose” and “We Believe. You Belong Here.”

Mascot: Toby the Tiger Religious Affiliation: Church of the Nazarene School Song: “Alma Mater, Olivet” by Byron Carmony ’39 University Seal: Symbol of truth and justice; containing the dove of peace, the cross, the lamp of learning and the Holy Bible

CLUBS AND ORGANIZATIONS

More than 90 clubs and organizations representing diverse interests, including a campus yearbook and literary magazine; Enactus business club; Student Philanthropy Council; ROTC; radio broadcasting (Shine.FM); numerous choral and instrumental ensembles (including ONU Marching Band and the University Orchestra); drama and musical theatre performances; intramural athletics; and community volunteer and spiritual life organizations.

MISSION

“We seek the strongest scholarship and the deepest piety, knowing that they are thoroughly compatible ... and a Christian environment where not only knowledge but character is sought.” From the University Catalog, 1915.

CAMPUS

Olivet Nazarene University has a beautiful, park-like campus featuring 35 major buildings on 275 acres. Located in the village of Bourbonnais, Illinois, just 45 miles south of Chicago’s Loop, the campus is situated on what was once tallgrass prairie. While not much of the original habitat remains, caretakers of the University have spent the past few decades intentionally planting trees native to the area as well as diversifying the flora. In spring 2022, Olivet joined the ranks of internationally accredited arboreta with a Level I Certification through the Morton Arboretum’s interactive community, ArbNet.

SPIRITUAL LIFE

This Christian community is committed to making worship of God the central focus of our lives. Our faith in Jesus Christ cannot be separated from the educational experience, and we seek to honor God in all we learn, say and do. Through chapel services, each segment of the University community has the opportunity to join with others in worship and receive instruction in the Word and encouragement to serve. Notable and world-renowned speakers regularly address the Olivet community during chapel.

ACCOLADES

Regularly among the Best Colleges in U.S. News rankings, Olivet Nazarene University has also been a top 10 Best Value School for multiple years and has earned special recognition for Social Mobility. In 2024 Olivet was named a Four-Star College by Money Magazine, and Forbes ranked the McGraw School of Business MBA No. 9 in the U.S. in the Best MBA Accelerated Online Programs category. A recognized College of Distinction for more than a dozen years, Olivet received special badges for the schools of Business, STEM, Education and Nursing. WalletHub also ranked Olivet in its top 10 list of Best Colleges & Universities in Illinois.