Even a casual environmental scan reveals sweeping changes and challenges taking place throughout society — and in higher education, in particular. Economic pressures, added competition, unstable and shifting funding sources, along with the rapid pace of technological changes and the rise of “for profit” colleges and universities, all create an uncharted course for the future. Yet, as American architect and engineer R. Buckminster Fuller advised, “We will not fight the forces of change. We will use them.” The challenge is to have the will and confidence to shape the future, not just to wait for it. During the last two academic years, Olivet, led by its Administrative Team, conducted a searching and forward-looking inquiry into its strengths, needs and opportunities going forward. The process was rooted in the University’s mission statement, gave rise to the development of a set of University values, re-embraced the school’s founding vision statement, and yielded a strategic plan for the next chapter of the University’s development. This June, at Olivet Nazarene University’s Alumni and Friends Breakfast held in Indianapolis, I introduced Vision 2022. It charts the course for Olivet from July 1, 2013, through June 30, 2022. This will be a decade of unparalleled possibility. The Olivet Vision is centered on three broad priorities: (1) strengthen the core functions of the University, including academics, student development, spiritual life, financial management and institutional advancement; (2) complete the Campus Master Plan; and (3) achieve financial sustainability, continuing to augment the financial profile and resiliency of the University. Expressive of these priorities, the plan focuses on four strategic initiatives: Broaden the University’s global reach. We will equip, empower and connect the thousands of Olivet Nazarene University graduates around the globe into a unified force for good. Elevate the Olivet experience. We are committed to the whole student — body, mind and spirit — and to provide an enriched student experience where hope, faith, excellence and service are nurtured. Advance academic excellence and scholarship. We will strengthen the academic core, focusing on teaching and mentoring, innovation and preparation, while providing an exceptional education to every student, in every area, every day. Lead and develop leaders. Whatever the circumstance, whatever the opportunity, Olivet Nazarene University will lead and empower a new generation of leaders. These priorities and initiatives define an ambitious future for Olivet as one of the nation’s leading universities recognized for quality academics, a vibrant student development program, a rich spiritual life, strong financial management, innovative programs and meaningful traditions housed on a beautiful and functional campus. More than a plan, the vision sets forth a call to action to all who believe that higher education should have a higher purpose. Olivet has a great future. This is a golden moment, a divine moment of promise and possibility. Our future belongs to God. May we seek His will as the overarching vision for Olivet, as we extend the reach and influence of Olivet Nazarene University to the next generation and beyond.
Dr. John C. Bowling serves as the 12th president of Olivet Nazarene University. An Olivet alumnus and Harvard University Fellow with two master’s and two earned doctorate degrees, he is a best-selling author, a prominent national speaker, and is internationally recognized as an outstanding leader in higher education and the Church. His most recent book, Revision, from by Beacon Hill Press, provides “Thirteen Strategies to Renew Your Work, Your Organization and Your Life.”
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