Olivet The Magazine; The Parent Issue - Autumn '24

THE PARENT ISSUE

Unpacking the Mission of Olivet

Choosing the Right College

Understanding Financial Aid

OLIVET NAZARENE UNIVERSITY AUTUMN 2024

FROM THE PRESIDENT

Dear Parents,

Welcome to the 2024 Parent Guide, a special issue of Olivet The Magazine published by Olivet Nazarene University. It wasn’t too many years ago that my wife and I were helping our own son gain insight into his Olivet future. I’m not just a president; I’m a parent. I know what you’re going through.

This magazine is designed specifically to assist you in navigating the college search process alongside your student and to provide information that will help you evaluate all aspects of university life.

Choosing the right college or university is a very important decision. The college search process can be vast, complicated, time-consuming and even stressful at times, so we hope you find this issue informative, useful, inspiring and reassuring. We also hope you embark on this journey with a sense of excitement for what you’ll soon encounter.

We believe Olivet can partner with the good work of parents not only in the logistics of admission but in shaping a student toward a worthy life. Our hope is to provide more than a professional credential. We also created an ecosystem for students to encounter God while at Olivet and discern His calling on their lives. While we don’t require a profession of faith to enroll, and not all students have fully sorted out their faith, you and they will discover a winsome message and environment to make eternal choices while preparing for temporal professional ones. I pray for you — along with a dedicated team of faculty, staff and administrators — every Tuesday, for an hour, in Kelley Prayer Chapel.

I hope you schedule a time to visit our campus this fall for either a personalized campus visit or for one of the many Purple & Gold Days events.

Please don’t hesitate to reach out if I can be of any assistance. No matter where you are in the process, the entire Olivet community is with you in spirit and available to you should you have questions at any point.

Sincerely,

Gregg Chenoweth, Ph.D. University President

Gregg Chenoweth ’90, Ph.D., has been president of Olivet Nazarene University since 2021. As an Olivet alumnus, former faculty member, former dean, former vice president for academic affairs and parent of an alumnus, Dr. Chenoweth implicitly understands the value of Christian higher education. He has published works in more than 30 media outlets and is the author of Everyday Discernment: The Art of Cultivating Spirit-Led Leadership, published by The Foundry Press

Olivet has fans in every corner of the globe. A great way to stay connected is through Olivet social media channels such as Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn, YouTube and Twitter. We even have a special Facebook group devoted to parents.

OLIVET THE MAGAZINE is published quarterly by the Office of Marketing and Engagement under the direction of the Vice President for Institutional Advancement.

VOLUME 93 ISSUE 4 (USPS 407-880) (ISSN 2325-7334)

Copyright ©2024

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/M.S.A.

VICE PRESIDENT OF OPERATIONS

Rob Lalumendre ’12/’14 MBA

VICE PRESIDENT FOR ENROLLMENT MANAGEMENT

Mark Reddy ’95/’08 M.O.L.

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.

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

Matt Moore ’96 for 989 Group

Donnie Johnson

PHOTOGRAPHY

Jones Foto, Image Group, Mark Ballogg

Joe Mantarian ’16, Noah Sears ’23

Kyle Petersen ’24, Skyler Blanton ’23

Dennis Freeman ’74, Gabe Meinert ’26

Additional photography submitted

EDITORIAL SUPPORT AND DESIGN

Adam Asher ’01/’07 M.O.L. for 989 Group

Raquel Gonzalez ’24

Alicia (Gallagher) Guertin ’14, Rebecca Huber

Caroline Mueller, Andrew Perabeau ’20

Jackson Thornhill ’20, Noah Sears ’23

Heather (Kinzinger) Shaner ’98

Lauren Beatty ’13, Hannah Priest ’21/’22 MBA

Laura Warfel for 989 Group

STUDENT SUPPORT

Emma Corbus, Loren Martin ’25

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

Reproduction of material without written permission is prohibited. News, events and announcements are printed at the discretion of the editorial board. Opinions expressed in this magazine do not necessarily represent Olivet Nazarene University policy. Unless otherwise noted, Olivet The Magazine quotes Bible passages from the New International Version.

OLIVET NAZARENE

The Largest Class in Olivet History

Olivet Nazarene University’s Office of Admissions is making preparations for the largest class in Olivet history. The office recently hosted a record-breaking 1,800-plus guests for Orientation 2024 in advance of the fall 2024 semester.

Students and families in attendance represented 37 U.S. states and several countries, including areas across the Pacific Rim. While on campus, they were introduced to academics and campus life. There was also time for them to get acquainted with one another and life at ONU.

Students and their families heard presentations by University President Gregg Chenoweth ’90; Dr. Amber Residori ’93/’17 Ed.D., dean of the School of Professional Studies; and LaMorris Crawford ’06/’12 M.O.L., Alumni Board member, inspiring them to learn the culture, build relationships and make an impact for their future during their time on campus. Dr. Chenoweth challenged students to step into their God-given calling at ONU.

There was also ample time for fun. Students had the opportunity to connect informally at a late-night student celebration on the Weber Center lawn. They enjoyed live music, a special pizza delivery, lawn games, s’mores and lots of conversation.

Concluding the event was the supportive cheer from faculty and staff gathered on the sidelines as the students and families departed. They represented “the great cloud of witnesses” encouraging these new students to work harder, go further and make a difference for God’s Kingdom.

“Orientation is a special time for the University to welcome incoming students,” said Luke Franklin ’11/’23 MBA, executive director of traditional enrollment for ONU. “We consistently hear from students who attended Orientation, saying they cannot wait to come back to campus and start their Olivet experience.”

The Arts 2024–2025: Messiah Reunion, Tuck Everlasting and Sounds of the Season

Each year Olivet Nazarene University students have opportunities to share their gifts and talents in creative ways. This academic year’s ONU Theatre mainstage productions will include the fall play, 33 Variations, written by Moises Kaufman and the spring musical, Tuck Everlasting: The Musical, which is based on the novel by Natalie Babbitt. Green Room Theatre Company will feature a collection of student productions, including Broadway Revue, the Winter Workshops student showcase and the spring play, These Shining Lives, written by Melanie Marnich.

Beloved Olivet music traditions will also be welcomed back to the stage for the greater community to enjoy. On Oct. 26 the School of Music will present Messiah:

The Reunion Concert, featuring a 250-voice alumni choir along with student musicians and choir members. Before the end of the fall semester, on Dec. 6 and 7, the School of Music will celebrate the start of the Christmas season with the Sounds of the Season concert.

For more information about these performances, visit Olivet.edu/events.

Celebrating Olivet: Accolades and Awards

This past year saw Olivet Nazarene University achieve a series of distinguished accolades and awards that underscore the University’s commitment to academic excellence, innovation and dedication to the campus community.

The University was once again honored by the third-party endorsement association Colleges of Distinction for its unwavering commitment to providing an exceptional undergraduate education. For the 10th consecutive year, ONU was also recognized as a 2024–2025 Illinois College of Distinction and as a 2024–2025 Christian College of Distinction.

For the fifth consecutive year, ONU’s McGraw School of Business, School of Nursing, School of Education, and Walker School of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics each received recognition for departmental excellence.

The Colleges of Distinction organization has consistently recognized ONU for being at the forefront of American higher education. With a modern, student-centered approach to teaching, Olivet offers a unique learning environment and academic programming that engages students with small class sizes, practical clinical experiences,

volunteer projects, global learning opportunities, interdisciplinary programs, collaborative projects, and hundreds of undergraduate research and internship opportunities.

Adding to its accolades, ONU’s McGraw School of Business Master of Business Administration (MBA) program was recognized as the ninth best in the country by Forbes, a leading global media company. This recognition places Olivet among the top institutions offering accelerated online MBA programs, underscoring the University’s commitment to providing a high-quality education in a fast-paced business world.

“We are thrilled to receive this recognition from Forbes,” said Dr. Steve Lowe ’88, ONU’s vice president for academic affairs. “Our MBA program is designed to provide a rigorous yet flexible learning experience that meets the needs of today’s professionals. This ranking is a testament to the hard work of our faculty and the continued success of our students.”

ONU IN THE NEWS

On the Bookshelf

Dr. Stephen Case ’05, a professor in Olivet Nazarene University’s Department of Chemistry and Geosciences, is renowned for his extensive contributions to both writing and research. As director of Olivet’s Honors Program, he integrates his passion for writing into his teaching. His latest achievement is the publication of his science fiction short story, “Sisters of the Flare,” which graces the cover of the July/August 2024 issue of Asimov’s Science Fiction magazine. The story marks his 45th published short story and his second sale to Asimov’s

Alongside his fiction work, Dr. Case has published two notable essays this summer: “Learning to Love Monsters,” exploring cultural debates on wind turbines, in Aeon Magazine and “Sealed Rooms of the Past: Theology and the B-Theory of Time,” which discusses new theories of time, in Fare Forward. Dr. Case is also a respected author of books on John Herschel, with Creatures of Reason set for release in fall 2024.

To learn more about these publications, read the full story at Olivet.edu/news.

We Worship Together

With students returning, the campus community is anticipating a fall semester of spiritual growth and development, whether it is through campus ministry groups, conversations with friends or faculty members, or weekly chapel services.

Scheduled chapel speakers for the fall semester include John Bevere, Tara Beth Leach ’05, Dr. Carla Sunberg, LaMorris Crawford ’06/’12 M.O.L., Kevin Jack, Dave Ferguson and others who will share on the semester theme, “Blessed.”

To learn more or to stream chapel services live or on demand, visit Olivet.edu/chapel.

ONU IN THE NEWS

OIivet Athletics: Fall Preview

After securing its 15th consecutive All-Sports Cup in the Chicagoland Collegiate Athletic Conference (CCAC) and another top-20 finish in the NAIA Learfield Directors’ Cup standings in 2023–2024, Olivet Nazarene University’s Department of Athletics will set out for another year of excellence as it begins the new academic year with the fall slate.

The ONU football team will begin its next chapter under first-year head coach Avante Mitchell after a successful season last year, when the Tigers posted winning overall and conference records. The Tigers will open the season on the road at Concordia University Ann Arbor before playing their home opener under the lights against Taylor University with a “whiteout” at Ward Field on Sept. 7 at 7 p.m.

Head coach Kyle Rago ’07 will look to keep the ONU men’s and women’s cross-country teams in the conversation as top teams in the NAIA after both posted top-25 finishes at the 2023 national championship meet. The Tigers will open their schedule at the Flyer Invite before hosting the Midwest Classic at the Aspen Ridge Golf Course on Sept. 20.

After taking the ONU women’s volleyball team to the semifinal round of the CCAC Tournament in his first year at the helm, head coach Jacob Ostema will continue to build momentum into the 2024 season. The Tigers will start the year with three out-of-state tournaments before opening CCAC play in McHie Arena against Governors State University on Sept. 5.

Head coach Jon Forsythe and the ONU men’s soccer team will look to continue the Tigers’ reign of dominance over the CCAC, as they will vie for their fourth consecutive conference regular-season and tournament crowns. The ONU women’s soccer team will also be building off yet another successful season under head coach Bill Bahr ’96/’02 MBA/’14 M.A.R., using their opening-round victory in the NAIA National Tournament as a spark for the upcoming season. Both teams will open their home slates during the first week of classes.

For more information and to follow Tiger Athletics all year long, visit ONUTigers.com.

ONU IN THE NEWS

Olivet’s Nursing Program Boasts 100% FNP ANCC Pass Rate

“Achieving a 100% pass rate is absolutely fantastic because it speaks to many things,” says Dr. Suzanne Phipps ’16 Ed.D., director of Olivet Nazarene University’s Master of Science in Nursing (M.S.N.) program, which includes the family nurse practitioner (FNP) track. Under her leadership, Olivet’s nursing students have reached an incredible milestone by achieving a perfect pass rate on the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) exam.

The ANCC exam is a national certification required for family nurse practitioners. It is one of the two primary certifying bodies, with the ANCC being recognized internationally. This recognition is crucial for FNPs who aspire to work globally, including in mission work. The other certifying body, the American Association of Nurse Practitioners, is nationally recognized within the United States.

Dr. Phipps oversees three key graduate nursing tracks: education, family nurse practitioner and transformational leadership. During her nine years of service at Olivet, she has dedicated herself to the success and growth of the program and its students.

“To achieve a 100% pass rate speaks to the dedication and hard work of our students and faculty,” Dr. Phipps said. “It’s multifactorial. It has to do with the students’ passion and their desire to achieve. God led them to this, so that’s confirmation for the individual, for the student.”

The program’s curriculum is designed to be comprehensive and aligns with what students need to know for the exam. However, Dr. Phipps believes that the relationships developed between faculty and students are what truly drive their success.

“Our faculty’s passion about their role in sharing their knowledge and expertise from the clinical setting and bringing that to the classroom is crucial,” she said. “Their influence is very significant.”

Olivet’s School of Nursing was recently named to the 2024 Best Bachelor of Science in Nursing Programs list from U.S. News and World Report

WORLDVIEW

While there is much to be learned in the classrooms right here on campus, one of the best parts of the Olivet Nazarene University experience is the lessons learned when students step into cultures and communities around the world.

WORLDVIEW

Samuel Moreheart and Savannah White Tanzania

Reflecting on her experience in Tanzania, senior Savannah White says, “Everything that we did on this trip had to be through the guidance and intervention of the Holy Spirit, or else none of it would have worked — not the lessons, preaching, moments with children and no translator, or the moments without words. But the Holy Spirit did show up in countless ways, and I am forever changed by witnessing His power.”

Led by Dr. Leon Blanchette, professor and director of the Center for Faith & Family, and University Chaplain Antonio Marshall ’13/’16 M.A., the trip gave Savannah, senior Samuel Morehart, junior Braden Sackkett, sophomore Amy Jebsen, sophomore Gracie Miller, sophomore Hannah Price, sophomore Julianna Halbreiter, junior Leigha Pardee, junior Mia Mungai and junior Morgan Gulley the chance to serve in Tarime and Mwanza. While there, they focused on ministry training for pastors and sharing the Gospel with children in the community while connecting through soccer, games and songs.

“This group of people was like no other; the amount of care and intentionality that each person poured into not only the group but into everyone we met was amazing to watch,” Samuel says. “Having the opportunity to work within the Church and witness the power of the Lord in such unique ways has opened my eyes to powerful faith in different environments around the world.”

WORLDVIEW

Hayley O’Vell

Blue Ridge Mountains, Tennessee and North Carolina; Southern Indiana

Dr. Charles Carrigan ’96, associate professor of chemistry and geoscience, often gives his students memorable learning experiences off campus. He recently led a group on an exploration of the Valley Ridge and foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the high country of the Great Smoky Mountains to get an in-depth look at how the classic mountain chain was formed. For Carrigan and his students, including junior Hayley O’Vell, the trip allowed for deeper appreciation and knowledge of their classroom experience.

“The hands-on nature of the trip to Blue Ridge helped to deepen my learning by putting textbook content into its real-life context,” Hayley says. “It was incredible to see how the geology of the mountains, everything from the specific minerals making up small rocks to the huge changes in elevation I experienced, reflected what I had been learning in class.”

Later in the spring semester, Dr. Carrigan took a group of students and professors to southern Indiana to experience the total solar eclipse.

WORLDVIEW

Gabriel Meinert

Netherlands and Germany

Technology can connect people across the world through photos, videos and storytelling. It can also be a powerful tool for sharing the Gospel. Led by Brian Utter ’81, Shine.FM station manager, and Dr. Heather McLaughlin, Department of Communication chair, a team of Olivet students had the opportunity to teach podcasting, photography and videography to members of the Church of the Nazarene in the Eurasia region as they grow in their communication and multimedia strategy with their churches and congregations. The team included junior Clair Ott; senior Ella Kestner; senior Kaylie Spry; Maori Brown ’23, a graduate assistant; senior D’Jaliana Herring; junior Gabe Meinert; senior Jaasiel Stauthammer; junior Cabot McLaughlin; sophomore Graham Brown; and junior Nicolas Spry.

“It was eye-opening to see how everyone was able to bond with one another through the shared goal of using multimedia to share the good news of the Gospel despite our unique cultural backgrounds,” Gabe says.

“This trip gave me a new perspective on the impact a small-town American kid like me can have when they simply take a step outside of their comfort zone.”

WORLDVIEW

Lauren Gadbois and Gideon Adams

Seville, Spain

For seniors Lauren Gadbois and Gideon Adams, a recent semester abroad in Spain offered cultural immersion and understanding.

Lauren knew that her goal was to grow in her Spanish-speaking abilities and improve her fluency, comprehension and pronunciation while also gaining new perspectives abroad.

“After struggling to adjust in a new culture, my professor challenged me to look at life in Spain through a new lens and explore what the Lord had in store for me,” she shares. “Being able to communicate with another group of people I wouldn’t have been able to before has been the most rewarding part. Embrace the opportunity, step out of your comfort zone and make the most of every moment abroad. You never know how the Lord will use you to grow His Kingdom.”

Gideon echoed the challenges of acclimating to a new environment but said he ultimately found a strong sense of community and belonging with those he encountered.

“I felt that God gave me the strength to break out of my shell,” he explains. “I met so many people, learned a lot and saw God move through them and through me as I interacted with them.”

WORLDVIEW

Lucy Martinson

Papua New Guinea

The trip, led by Dr. Mike Pyle and his wife, Nancy, both retired professors; Dr. Nicole Vander Schaaf, assistant professor of biological sciences; and Dr. Michael Wade, assistant professor of engineering, gave seniors Lucy Martinson and Jolie Archer and Abigail Lynn ’24, Tori Orton ’24, Ellie Thompson ’24 and Carley Goetsch ’24 a unique opportunity for research application while connecting with the community in Papua New Guinea.

For Lucy, it was a chance to continue the research she had started under the direction of Dr. Vander Schaaf. In partnership with the doctors and staff at Kudjip Nazarene Hospital, they created, optimized and validated an accurate and cost-effective way to test for cervical cancer through HPV testing.

“Thanks to funds and grants received for my research, we were able to purchase some of these tests for the hospital so that they could start testing women for HPV for the first time ever in that province,” Lucy says. “I am so thankful to have gone on this trip. It was so amazing to see the ways God is working at the Nazarene Hospital. He is truly there, using amazing people to minister to so many patients and their families.”

“I

am so thankful to have gone on this trip. It was so amazing to see the ways God is working at the Nazarene Hospital. He is truly there, using amazing people to minister to so many patients and their families.”

a visit to Olivet

Visiting Olivet Nazarene University is a crucial step in the college selection process. While there is endless information available online, visiting in person is the ideal way to see all that Olivet has to offer.

We offer a holistic educational experience that nurtures not only the intellect but also the spirit. Our diverse range of academic programs caters to various interests and career goals.

Our faculty, known for their expertise and dedication, foster a supportive learning environment that encourages critical thinking and innovation.

Our beautiful campus is a microcosm of the world, with students from different backgrounds and cultures. Visiting allows you to experience this diversity firsthand and understand how it enriches the learning environment.

Olivet is deeply committed to service and leadership development. By visiting, you can learn about the various opportunities we provide for students to make a positive impact on society.

We also understand the importance of extracurricular activities in shaping a wellrounded personality. Our athletic teams, clubs and organizations offer numerous avenues for students to pursue their passions outside the classroom.

A visit gives you a glimpse of our residential and spiritual life. You can explore our modern facilities, interact with current students, worship alongside students in a chapel setting, and get a feel for the camaraderie that defines the ONU experience.

WE BELIEVE YOU BELONG HERE

Nothing replaces the campus visit experience. Stepping on campus allows students the opportunity to get a taste for life at Olivet. It is a wonderful time to build relational equity with faculty and staff at Olivet.

DID YOU KNOW?

- Olivet hosts campus visits five days a week.

- Personalized campus visits are customary for every high school senior.

- Group visit days like Purple & Gold Days, Summer Visit Days and Experience Days allow students to meet other like-minded high school seniors as part of their process.

- We host nearly 2,000 high school students each year for campus visits.

- Students from around the world visit Olivet during the recruitment cycle.

To schedule a campus visit, scan here or go to Olivet.edu/visit

FIRST PERSON

Warren W. Rogers III ’98/’09 M.A.R.

Looking in the rearview mirror, Warren Rogers clearly sees how God used Olivet Nazarene University to change his life. His Olivet journey began by his wanting to step out of his father’s shadow and into a place where he could learn more about himself and God’s calling on his life. He carried with him the grief of having lost one of his younger brothers, who was hit by a car and died at age 9.

“My father is a retired Nazarene pastor, and our family moved many times during my childhood,” Warren says. “I was born in England. I attended preschool in Los Angeles, elementary school in Mississippi, middle school in West Virginia and high school in Iowa. For college, my choice was ONU.”

As an Olivet student, Warren majored in communication and worked at Shine.FM, the campus radio station.

“Professors like Dr. Jay Martinson and Dr. Beth PatrickTrippel helped shape my undergraduate experience,” he says. “Dr. Martinson saw potential in me and encouraged me. When I was a senior, he helped me step into my dream internship at FOX32 in Chicago during the reign of the Bulls and Michael Jordan.”

Warren holds a bachelor’s degree in communication and a Master of Arts in Religion degree from ONU. Today, he is blessed to work for ONU as an advancement officer and nurture relationships with donors who give to help this current generation of ONU students flourish.

During his freshman year at ONU, Warren met Jeena (Samuel) ’98. They married six years later and are the parents of four children. Their two older children are ONU students. Maya is a senior majoring in architectural interior design. Warren IV is a sophomore majoring in international business. They are hoping that their two younger children will choose ONU, too.

“I’ve been extremely fortunate to watch Maya and Warren IV flourish at Olivet,” Warren says. “Both are involved in student life activities and fully embrace the Olivet college experience. They participated in a Shalom Project ministry trip to Nicaragua with other ONU students. The trip bonded them closer as siblings and allowed them to partner with locals to impact the community with Christ’s love.”

Recently, Warren experienced once again ONU’s commitment to living out “Education With a Christian Purpose” — this time, as a parent.

“Maya texted me and asked me to send her one of our favorite devotionals,” he recalls. “She wanted to share it with her architectural drafting class when she led their class devotion time. No matter what class the students are taking, God is part of their education. ONU is an exceptional Christian university, preparing the hearts and minds of students to carry out the Lord’s restoration work in this world.”

Two of Warren’s passions are helping people live a generous life and helping college students step into their future.

“I am diligently cultivating a personal relationship with Jesus,” he says. “That causes me to step out in faith every day. The more I learn about generosity, the more I’m changed. I hope I’m teaching that to others every day.”

“ONU is an exceptional Christian university, preparing the hearts and minds of students to carry out the Lord’s restoration work in this world.”

The Rogers family, from left to right: Warren ’98/’09 M.A.R.; Maya, a senior at Olivet; Ruby; Jeena (Samuel) ’98; Ava; and Warren IV, a sophomore.

Dr. Stephen Case

WORD& SPEECH

In the beginning was the Word.

What a remarkable way to begin an account of the revelation of Jesus Christ! John’s gospel emphasizes the identity of Christ as the narrating Word of Creation. For John, Christ is identified with God’s holy, animating speech: the power and wisdom of intelligent communication and creation. The Gospel, in turn, spread through the written word, and it was the Gospel of a God Who spoke — a Christ Who was somehow Word itself.

The act of speaking and writing — the word — remains fundamental to the educational endeavor. In a world of noise and of words that mislead or control or manipulate, our mission as Christians remains bound to the word and to Christ, the Word. Our words must not only be true, but they must also

be life-giving, clear and filled with grace. To learn to speak and write with quality and fidelity isn’t simply a ticket to job security and advancement; it’s essential to fulfilling our purpose as co-creators in God’s redemptive act in the world.

My wife and I were reminded of this on a recent trip. During breakfast we met two young women traveling with college friends. For the moment, both were living in New York City, where one of them worked as a software manager. I asked whether she had studied IT. “No,” she explained. “I started as an IT major but eventually switched to English.” She smiled. “Because, of course, you can do anything with an English major.” It turned out she had specialized in technical writing, started at her company writing grants and was very quickly moved into a managerial position.

My takeaway from this conversation was not simply that liberal arts majors like English are still centrally relevant in today’s job market — though they are. But as any Olivet student will tell you, writing and speaking are central to the general education experience across all fields of study, from engineering to English to business administration. The importance of the word goes beyond job preparation alone.

Education at the college level is more than simply learning information. The real point is learning what to do with that information: learning how to think. Knowledge is like bricks, but critical and creative thinking is building things with those bricks. But how does one learn to build with knowledge? How does one learn to think? It’s not by passively absorbing information or sitting in an ivory tower somewhere thinking lofty thoughts. Instead, as the history of education since the ancient Greeks has shown, one learns to think primarily by speaking and writing

This is a paradigm shift that students encounter at college. For years many have been conditioned to consider writing as the thing that comes after thought, as though the ideas for a paper or essay are fully formed in one’s head and then simply transferred to paper. We often feel the same way about speaking — and with some wisdom: think first, then speak. But in the safety of the classroom, we realize that writing and speaking are ways of thinking. I can’t count how many times I’ve worked out a thought — or been surprised by a revelation

— only discovered in the act of writing itself. And, likewise, some of the greatest moments in teaching are those during a class discussion when a student has that “aha” moment in the midst of voicing a question or trying to verbally articulate an idea. Writing and speaking aren’t simply signs of intelligence; they’re intelligence at work.

We want our students to have the skills to create with the knowledge they have — to build steadily, diligently, but also creatively and daringly — for the Kingdom of God. At Olivet we cultivate the Christian labor of writing and speaking. What’s at stake is our very ability to fulfill our God-given purpose in the world. In every essay, every response prompt, every sermon or speech, we are invited to commune with a God Whose nature is Word.

And the Word was with God.

And the Word was God.

Stephen Case ’05, Ph.D., is the director of the University Honors Program and a professor in the Department of Chemistry and Geosciences. He holds degrees in physics and the history and philosophy of science and teaches courses in astronomy, physics, history of science, and science and theology. He is the author of Making Stars Physical: The Astronomy of Sir John Herschel (University of Pittsburgh Press, 2018) and co-editor of the forthcoming Cambridge Companion to John Herschel (Cambridge University Press, 2024).

CHOOSING THE RIGHT COLLEGE THE PARENT GUIDE

“The liberal arts are the arts of communication and thinking. They are the arts indispensable to further learning, for they are the arts of reading, writing, speaking, listening, figuring.” —Oliver DeMille

There is no shortage of options when you’re trying to help your child choose where to pursue higher education. The real challenge is finding the right place — the college or university where your student will thrive. Our 2024 Parent Guide serves as a handy guidebook, providing specifics about the Olivet Nazarene University experience, and the distinctions of an “Education With a Christian Purpose.”

THE ARTISTIC JOURNEY

Nurturing Creativity as an Artist and Mentor

Jon Seals

Relationships are central to making works of art. Consider the construction of a lifelike pencil portrait, a serene landscape photograph or an attention-grabbing package design. The relationship of parts to the whole matters whether working traditionally or with a new media piece; the formal and informal arrangements of elements and principles of art often make the difference between a work of significance versus the result of a weekend hobbyist. Of course, it is the relationships beyond the canvas or the screen that are of the most consequence.

The world of art thrives on the symbiotic relationship between seasoned artists and their apprentices. Throughout history, from Renaissance workshops to contemporary ateliers, mentorship has played a pivotal role in shaping artistic careers and nurturing creativity. In today’s ever-evolving world, this tradition remains relevant as artists not only excel in their craft but also embrace the role of mentor to guide the next generation.

At Olivet Nazarene University, students have the opportunity to discover mentors who dedicate their lives to serving God and their community through the Department of Art and Digital Media. The faculty occupy a unique position: They value a liberal arts education and how it can enhance artistic pursuits by fostering an environment of mentorship; they also hold advanced art degrees from a variety of public and private institutions. Professor Mary Beth Koszut studied at the University of Denver and the School of the Art Institute of Chicago; professor Scott Dombrowski in Georgia at the Savannah College of Art and Design; and Bill Greiner, professor emeritus, studied at the University of South Dakota. These diverse backgrounds offer unique perspectives in the classroom and aid in helping students prepare for and reach varied artistic goals beyond Olivet.

Artistic apprenticeship has a rich history dating back centuries, when young artists learned from established masters in an intimate setting. The apprentices

observed, imitated and gradually developed their own style under the guidance of their mentors. This traditional approach allowed aspiring artists to acquire technical skills, learn about artistic principles and gain exposure to the art world.

Today, while the structure of apprenticeships may have evolved, the essence of mentorship remains intact at Olivet. Established artists understand the importance of sharing their knowledge and experiences to inspire and guide young artists. Through mentorship, they provide valuable feedback, critique and practical advice that help budding artists navigate the complexities of the art industry and find their unique voice.

Olivet is a Christian liberal arts university that provides fertile ground for nurturing artistic talent, regardless of whether students are formally studying art. The interdisciplinary nature of liberal arts encourages students to explore various subjects, fostering creativity and critical thinking skills that greatly enhance their artistic pursuits.

By studying a broad range of disciplines such as literature, philosophy, history and science, students gain a multifaceted understanding of the world. This knowledge informs their art, allowing them to develop unique perspectives and create work that is meaningful. The ability to draw inspiration from diverse sources contributes to the richness and depth of their artistic expression. Professors at Olivet walk alongside students, sharing their wisdom to help them apply new technical skills and knowledge rooted in a Christian worldview.

Moreover, a liberal arts education fosters collaboration and the exchange of ideas among students from different majors. Artists benefit from interacting with individuals pursuing various disciplines, gaining fresh insights and broadening their creative horizons. This cross-pollination of ideas often leads to innovative and thought-provoking artistic endeavors.

At Olivet, where the student-to-faculty ratio is 14:1, the intimate class setting provides a conducive environment for mentorship to thrive. The term pracademic aptly describes the professors at Olivet

who blend practical experience with academic expertise. This combination enables them to mentor students effectively, fostering a close relationship that goes beyond the traditional student-teacher dynamic.

The benefits of a small class setting extend beyond formal art instruction. Students from various majors can access close mentorship from professors who possess a wealth of knowledge and experience in their respective fields. These pracademic professors serve as valuable guides, helping students navigate their chosen paths and providing insights into the practical aspects of pursuing their artistic passions.

As chairman of the Department of Art and Digital Media, I have a unique view of this process as it unfolds at Olivet. Having graduated from Olivet’s art program as an undergraduate, I can attest that the mentorship I received changed the course of my life. Working as an art educator with both high school and college-aged students over the past 20 years while simultaneously pursuing advanced degrees in art, I oscillated between being a student and a teacher, and between mentee and mentor, and I am immensely grateful for the experiences of both. Today a great joy in my life comes from instructing and mentoring college art students!

Good mentors invite others to join in the creation process. Motivated artists and educators, driven by their passion for creating, inspire others to create as well. The best mentors provoke creativity in others and challenge students to take measured and spontaneous risks. Both academia and making art involve calculated risks and the willingness to embrace one’s calling.

The art professors at Olivet encourage students to challenge the status quo, to imagine new and exciting ways to respond to the world around them, and to bring others along in the discovery. That is the kind of art education we can all learn from.

Jon Seals ’03 is a conceptual artist, teacher and curator. He holds a Master of Arts in Religion degree from Yale Divinity School and Yale Institute of Sacred Music and a Master of Fine Arts degree in painting from Savannah College of Art and Design. His essays, reviews and works of art have been published in ArtPulse Magazine, Letters Literary Art Journal, Palimpsest Magazine and Reflections Magazine. Professor Seals has exhibited his artwork in solo and group art exhibitions in galleries and at colleges throughout the United States. He curates exhibitions at Victorian House Gallery and for the Yale Institute of Sacred Music. His artistic practice is organized around exploring the ways in which identity relates to memory, loss and redemption in visual culture. He joined Olivet in 2018 and serves as chair of the Department of Art and Digital Media and as galleries director.

LEARNING LEADERSHIP AND DEFINING SUCCESS ON AND OFF THE COURT

Lauren Glenn

What does it mean to be a Tiger?

When I started coaching, I strongly believed I was a transformational coach. I did what was best for my players and told myself winning wasn’t the most important thing. The problem is, I’m very competitive. Anyone who has played, coached, watched or is emotionally invested in sports knows that winning and losing can create visceral reactions that send us into momentary highs and lows. Sports can bring out the best of us and the worst of us. Ultimately, I came to ask myself, “How do I define and measure success?”

In this world, we’re surrounded by a culture that defines us by our wins and losses. This is only amplified in athletics, where records and stats are put out for the entire world to evaluate you. But it’s also true for a student and businessperson, engineer or teacher. It’s displayed when someone asks you how you did on an exam or a presentation. These measurements can be a helpful evaluation tool in their rightful place, but the world can define us by these physical measurements — which can become scary if we put our identity in these things.

Fortunately, that isn’t how Jesus defines us. It’s not what we do that defines us but what He has done for us. When we put our identity in Him, we can experience a freeing joy. This foundation of JOY (Jesus, Others, Yourself) helps us keep things in perspective in athletics and life. When we can rely on and put Jesus first as our rock and Savior through all highs and lows, put others second by serving and caring for their needs, and then take care of our own needs, we can experience true joy.

Now, 16 years after starting my coaching stint here at Olivet Nazarene University, I’m still just as competitive. I strive daily after the athletics mantra that you can see hanging in McHie Arena: “Winning Championships. Developing Champions.” But I have a renewed perspective on success that’s developed over time. In our program, success is now defined by these core values: Team first. Talk it out. Integrity. Grit. Go the extra mile. Enthusiasm. Respect. Responsibility.

These values aren’t just lived out in our program. You’ll experience some version of these demonstrated across campus because they are Biblically based.

Lauren Glenn ’09 M.O.L. is the head women’s basketball coach, the senior woman administrator for athletics and an adjunct professor in the Department of Exercise and Sports Science. Since becoming the head coach at Olivet, she has taken her teams to nine NAIA Tournaments, including second-round finishes in 2014 and 2021 and a quarterfinals appearance in 2016. Coach Glenn is a seven-time Illinois Basketball Coaches Association NAIA Coach of the Year. Her teams run a fast-paced offense that has led the nation in scoring nine times. She and her husband, Justin, director of athletics at Olivet, have a son, Nash.

I’ve seen our admissions team serving prospective students with a team-first mentality. I’ve seen resident directors and assistants talk out difficult situations with students who came out stronger on the other side. I’ve seen integrity from a student-athlete who admitted the ball went out of bounds, and that changed an official’s call. I’ve seen the grounds crew gritting it out at 4 a.m. after a snowstorm so the campus is clear for the first student who goes to class that morning. I’ve seen professors go the extra mile setting up a lab for a student who had to miss due to an athletic contest. I’ve seen the enthusiasm of our Sodexo dining team passing out cookies on Warm Cookie Wednesday. I’ve seen the respect between departments across campus as we try to leave both people and things better than we found them. I’ve seen the responsibility

our counseling services office has taken to care for the mental health of our students — so much so that they’ve proactively reached out to be a resource for students and coaches. The best part is there is an underlying joy you’ll experience in these interactions with others around campus at Olivet.

In athletics and across campus, our success is defined by how we invest in and develop people. In 20 years, we’ll know we’ve been successful when these men and women are people of grace and integrity who are loving husbands, wives, dads, moms, professionals and leaders in their community.

That’s what it means to be a Tiger.

‘HE WHO SINGS, PRAYS TWICE’

Dr. Marvin Jones Reflects on Leading the Proclamation Gospel Choir

There is something special about being a part of a community that loves what you love, does what you do and pushes you to be better than you are.

Music has always been an integral part of my life. Especially choir. I was made to sing in choir beginning in the sixth grade by my mom. When the music teacher sent my mom a notice that they would be auditioning students for sixth grade choir, I vehemently opposed the idea. I mean, boys didn’t sing in choirs. My mom had other ideas.

After joining, I discovered that I liked it — not only at school, but I even joined the church choir at Saint James Baptist Church called The Voices of Hope. What a great experience. Not only did we sing at our church, but we also traveled to other churches to sing. Our director, George Taylor, made sure we had a good time and that we had a great repertoire of music to sing. I continued singing in choirs through high school, and I’m still in touch with some of the friends that were made back then. That was 50 years ago. Wow! Fifty years.

It seemed only natural for me to continue in music as a career path. Though there were many detours along the way, music remained at the forefront of everything I did. Especially directing choirs. At one of the churches I served, we were able to grow the choir from 15 singers to over 60 singers and a 25-piece orchestra. While at that church, I began directing a gospel choir at a local university. At that point, choir took on a whole new dimension for me. We had the opportunity to sing with Carrie Underwood, Sara Evans and LeAnne Rimes at the Country Music Association (CMA) Awards and the CMA Christmas show. The students loved it. I didn’t mind it either.

Eventually my path led me to Olivet. I’d heard about Proclamation Gospel Choir before I ever arrived here. I’d actually heard them several times before arriving at Olivet, and I was always blown away with their energy and sound.

Coming in as the new director was intimidating to say the least, but I quickly found out this group was a special group, and we began a great journey together. I fell in love with the students and was overwhelmed with the thought of becoming a faculty member at Olivet.

Proclamation Gospel Choir has also had several privileges over the past few years. We were awarded the Kingdom Image Award in Columbus, Ohio, for the best large choir in the country; we were privileged to sing with the incomparable CeCe Winans in concert; and we were selected to be a light in the darkness by singing at Disney World in Orlando, Florida.

All of that is wonderful, but nothing takes the place of singing together as a choir family and sharing the Gospel through song, together, wherever we go. The School of Music at Olivet, in my opinion, set a standard for excellence in music that has stood the test of time. Being a faculty member of such an outstanding school of music was way beyond anything I could have ever imagined for myself.

There is something special about being a part of a community that loves what you love, does what you do and pushes you to be better than what you are. That has been special for me as a part of the faculty at Olivet.

When I arrived at Olivet, I was in a dark place. To be honest, I was ready to throw in the towel on everything, including my faith. God had other things in mind. He put me in a department with a group of ladies and guys who loved Jesus and, over time, loved me back to a right standing with Jesus. They displayed love for the Lord in everything they did, and they loved one another. I couldn’t have asked for a better environment to be in.

My colleagues and students have stretched me musically and spiritually, and I’m better for it. Being a part of something that is bigger than yourself is a blessing, and I wouldn’t change it for the world. I thank God for the School of Music at Olivet Nazarene University.

Marvin Jones, Ed.D., joined Olivet’s full-time faculty in 2017. He teaches courses in church music, worship and worship leadership. He is also the director of Proclamation Gospel Choir. Dr. Jones has served as worship leader for three Nazarene General Assemblies as well as three Millennium conferences. He serves as the assistant worship leader at College Church University Avenue in Bourbonnais. Dr. Jones earned a bachelor’s degree in church music, Master of Arts in Religion degree and Doctor of Education degree from Trevecca Nazarene University. He and his wife, Paula, have two children: Sheldon ’03/’07 M.O.L. (wife, Wendi; son, Davis; and daughter, Raegan) and Nikki (son, Caden).

A STORIED LIFE

Dr. Beth Schurman

“At Olivet, the English Department belongs to readers, writers, and thinkers. Faculty and students alike love the literature that connects us to the perspectives and experiences of people across diverse times, cultures, and places. We acknowledge and endeavor to harness the transformative power of language in its myriad forms. And, in all our many pursuits, we strive to expand and deepen our capacity to understand, analyze, and explore. …”

So starts the Department of English mission statement at Olivet Nazarene University and, I’d imagine, the essence of countless liberal arts programs across the country — an intentional emphasis more on who we hope to create than what we hope to do. When we sit as a group and discuss our purpose and our goals, the overarching theme is this: We hope to feed our students’ souls. Simply put, we hope to take our students’ passions for reading, writing and language and help them find ways to share these God-given talents and abilities to make the world a better place. A bit lofty, yes, but it doesn’t make it any less true.

Ever since I was a little kid, I’ve loved stories. As a child, my dad read us the Dr. Seuss books so many times that my three younger sisters and I would chant the lines of his verse by memory. When we were little, Theodor Geisel taught us the simple truths of the consequences of hate and persistence in the face of adversity, and those truths became more complex, nuanced and contextualized when I later engaged with Fitzgerald, Steinbeck, Hurston, Alexie and many others. These authors and stories were my companions, my mentors and my friends. They challenged my thinking on things like power and greed, love and forgiveness, mercy and justice, and helped me make meaning of the world in which I lived.

But stories aren’t only important in the world of fiction and make-believe — they make us who we are. They influence our perspectives, our actions and even what we spend our hard-earned money on. Want a practical example? Disney World sells stories to the tune of $10,000 for a weeklong vacation, and it’s not because their rides are bigger or better; it’s because each ride tells a story.

Even in tech fields, it’s the humanities folks who help create meaning and purpose for products. Michael Litt, co-founder and CEO of a tech startup, says that the “funny thing” is that he is “still hiring more humanities majors than STEM grads,” noting that developers make up only 15–25% of the company’s workforce. He explains that the “making part was relatively easy” but that it was the “figuring out what people want part that was hard.” He emphasizes the A, for arts, in the company’s “STEAM” focus because of the need for “instinct, critical thinking, and a deeply contextualized understanding of human nature.” This is exactly what our majors do and what the humanities offer: an understanding of people and places, needs and desires.

Stories also tell us how to feel and what to value. Jayson Stark, an award-winning sportswriter, summed it up well when he commented in response to a compliment from Joe Maddon, former Major League Baseball manager, on his craft, “Information is important. Writing, period, is important. … There is always going to be a need in our world — I hope — for unique thinking, perspective and information.” Stark doesn’t just write about sports; he makes us feel, understand and hope.

Beth Schurman ’03/’05 M.A., Ph.D., has been teaching at Olivet since 2007 and is currently serving as chair of the Department of English and director of the Writing Center. Her area of passion and expertise is in English education, and she holds a Ph.D. in language and literacy from Purdue University. When not teaching, she enjoys adventuring with her husband, Jeff, and four children.

As the chair of the English department here at Olivet, I should also tell you some other stories — true stories about the reality of English majors who are employed and fulfilled in their jobs. This is good news for us and our students for sure. We certainly do care about our students being employed, happy and successful, which is why we’ve made some major changes to our program over the last five years such as an internship option, the addition of a writing major and a reduction of hours to allow for double majoring in order to help create a clearer pathway between students’ interests and abilities and their future careers.

However, our students aren’t simply data points, which is why we work closely with each of our majors to help guide them to courses and programs that will best prepare them for the future and why I’d like to leave you with two final stories of recent graduates. The first is of Kylie, one of our students who started at Olivet with an English major and, through a trip to Burkina Faso, Africa, and a summer internship with the Rafiki Foundation, realized that she was being called to teach English overseas. She currently serves

in Ghana. Another graduate, Michaela, started as an engineering major with the hope of being a Disney “Imagineer,” but her love of literature and writing soon landed her with an English major, which she used to prepare for a law program.

Make that three final stories: Like me, my daughter Faith loves stories. At 12, she hopes to be a writer someday. I don’t know yet what God has in store for her life — if her writing will take her in the direction of novels, poems, sportswriting or marketing. I do know, however, the type of person she will become with a humanities degree: someone who doesn’t just think well but thinks carefully, critically and creatively; someone who is aware of the complexities of life and the intersection of history, culture and politics; and someone whose heart is keenly attuned to the lives of others. Whether she is called into the literary world, a library, a classroom or the business world, I know she will be equipped. And I hope that the stories she will tell, real or imagined, just might feed people’s souls.

future, where great writing matters.” The Athletic

Footnotes

Blumenstyk, G. (2019, July

Dr. Kent R. Olney

PILLARS

Unpacking the Mission of Olivet Nazarene University

With more than 4,000 universities in America, does it really matter which one a student chooses to attend? Preparation, development and pursuit of one’s life passion can occur regardless of where one earns his or her degree, right? These questions are worth careful consideration. At Olivet Nazarene University, an education flows from three pillars, or central ideas, that lie at the heart of our educational mission.

Our students leave us competent in the language of their chosen field of study and versed in the language of God.

PILLAR 1: PROFESSIONAL READINESS

Professional preparation at Olivet consists of (1) classroom and book learning; (2) practical application through real-life experience; and (3) opportunities to encounter the God of all creation through knowing His Son, Jesus Christ. Those who embrace these three emphases leave Olivet professionally ready to enter the world.

Employers are looking for young people who have a first-rate education that has prepared them to adapt to a marketplace that is rapidly changing. Of course, all universities promise such an education.

What makes us unique at Olivet is that our professional readiness includes that third element wherein we prepare students to represent God in their world. Stated another way, our students are prepared to be “interpreters” for God. This is not new. Long ago, God used Joseph to interpret for Pharaoh in Egypt. He used Daniel to interpret for King Nebuchadnezzar in Babylon. God still seeks qualified interpreters who are strategically placed and used for His purposes among world leaders. Today He finds many of those interpreters at Olivet — individuals professionally prepared to represent both their discipline and God.

Having grown up between two deaf siblings, I worked for 20 years as a professionally certified sign language interpreter. In that role, I interpreted in classrooms, courtrooms, hospitals and churches. I have interpreted for Billy Graham, four state governors and even at the White House.

Those experiences taught me that the most fundamental principle to becoming an effective interpreter is to know two languages well. In a sense, that is our mission at Olivet: We strive to teach two languages. Our students leave us competent in the language of their chosen field of study and versed in the language of God. Professional readiness at Olivet means knowing both languages, or both worlds, well.

A fair question, then, is this: How are we doing? Are we having success in professionally preparing our students? The following alumni have returned to speak on campus in recent months. Each illustrates Olivet’s remarkable track record:

Suzanne Bell ’98 is the lead researcher for NASA’s Behavioral Health and Performance Laboratory. David Horton ’84 enjoyed a long career with the IRS overseeing a $225 million budget and providing tax assistance to nations around the world.

Teresa Woodruff ’85 was named interim president of Michigan State University.

Angel Colón ’90 served as the senior director of diversity and multicultural development at Kroger, our nation’s largest chain of supermarkets.

Jessica Swanson ’06 served as a senior research fellow at Georgetown University’s Edunomics Lab in Washington, D.C., exploring how finance decisions impact our nation’s schools.

All are professionally prepared interpreters, and there are many others like them.

Jesus had this to say on the topic of interpreters in Luke 12:56: “You know how to interpret the appearance of the earth and sky [i.e., you have mastered arts and sciences]. [But] how is it that you don’t know how to interpret this present time?” Our mission stretches beyond mastering the arts and sciences. We point to the Creator of those arts and sciences and seek to interpret Him through every academic discipline, in every corner of the world.

Corporate offices, educational institutions, performance stages, research laboratories, churches and mission fields, professional athletic teams, medical facilities, political offices and civic organizations have all welcomed professionals who received their foundational preparation while at Olivet. Individuals with an Olivet education serve as God’s interpreters in this world.

PILLAR 2: PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT

Olivet’s second pillar is personal development. As a Christian university, we intentionally seek to foster deep piety along with strong scholarship.

Making such a statement begs the question: What is a Christian university? Extremes exist across the higher education landscape. An overemphasis in one direction — Christian — implies more interest in pursuing halos than academic excellence. That approach too often produces firm beliefs but minimal influence in the marketplace. Emphasis in the other direction — university — risks developing shallow Christians who are conversant in the latest educational buzzwords but who know little of God’s enduring Word.

Olivet seeks to avoid these extremes. When we speak of a Christian university, we value what each distinct word emphasizes. Consequently, we believe the following:

We believe all truth is God’s truth; He is the Source of all knowledge.

We believe we can pursue devotion to God and practice excellence in our academic disciplines.

We believe a relationship with the Creator enhances rather than diminishes intellectual development. It is God Who kindles inquisitive and creative minds.

We believe with the Apostle Paul that Christ, not culture, is our Master. Therefore, “Whatever [we] do, [we] work at it with all [our] heart … working for the Lord, not for men” (Col. 3:23).

We believe learning entails lifelong development with eternal consequences.

The best in higher education is always shaped by faith. That is how we define a Christian university.

Such a university is committed to personal development. Let me illustrate with an unusual phone call that came to Olivet in August 2022.

Jim (not his real name) called the University, said he was dying and asked to talk to a dean. The call was transferred to my office. I quickly learned four things: (1) Jim was in poor health with a bad medical prognosis; (2) over 40 years ago, he had been an Olivet student; (3) he had been kicked out of the college twice for his behavior — the last time permanently; and (4) he now wanted to apologize and set things right. His language was rough, and his emotions were raw as he wept into the phone; his voice was filled with regret. I prayed with Jim and assured him of our and, more importantly, God’s forgiveness. Jim expressed his thanks and then wistfully said, “I loved my professors at Olivet. They were so good to me, even though I was a rebel.”

That initial call has now become a weekly call between the “rebel” and the dean. If he doesn’t call me, I call him. Jim’s health has stabilized, and more of his story has unfolded. One poor decision after another resulted in years of heartache and misery. Yet Jim could never forget Olivet. Now that the end looms near, he is reaching out to her again. It may sound strange, but Jim and I — the rebel and the dean — continue to have mutually encouraging conversations. When life turned dark and the future looked bleak, Jim was drawn back to his alma mater, Olivet, to his professors who “were so good to [him], even though [he] was a rebel.”

What would cause a man to make such a phone call? Jim remembered the virtue that marked Olivet. He remembered Jesus was there, among his faculty and classmates. He remembered a place of love and forgiveness. Then he prayed that what he remembered had not changed over the years. Jim communicates two sentiments to me nearly every time we talk: first, how proud he is that Olivet continues to develop Godly students and, second, how amazed he is that a dean takes the time to talk to a rebel.

But that is who we are. Whether interacting with current students, distinguished alumni, outside constituents or a rebel from the past, our mission is the same. We are focused on professional readiness for a career and personal development for a life in this world and the next. As a Christian university, who we are and how we treat others matters.

Thomas Obadiah Chisholm, a Methodist hymnwriter from Kentucky, penned these well-known lyrics 100 years ago: “Great is Thy faithfulness, Lord, unto me!” Chisholm went on to note that the same faithful Lord gives “strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow.” Our students — past, present and future — are counting on us to point them to the source of that strength and hope for their personal development. We dare not disappoint them.

PILLAR 3: LIVES OF SERVICE

The third and final pillar that distinguishes our work at Olivet is encouraging students to engage in lives of service. Our professionally prepared and personally developed students head out in search of more than just good jobs. They want to serve, knowing that is the ultimate measure of their success.

In some ways, the task has never been more challenging. Our culture exhibits a curious mix of victimization, individual rights, fragile egos, anxiety, fear and depression. The CDC reports a sharp rise in “deaths of despair”: deaths due to suicide, drugs and alcohol. This trend is particularly seen among millennials, identified as young adults between the ages of 18 and 34, and is contributing to the lowest U.S. life expectancy rates in the past 100 years.

What accounts for what we are witnessing? The late French sociologist Émile Durkheim, in his 1897 classic Suicide, pointed to the power of community life. Suicide rates, according to Durkheim, are elevated when social ties are weak. On the other hand, communities rich with vibrant social relationships tend to have lower suicide rates. Community life matters.

Ironically, social analysts tell us that today’s young adults are the most socially connected generation ever, with their iPhones and social media accounts creating stimulating, 24/7, online communities. We’re discovering, however, that not just any community will do. Communities that make a difference are rooted in deep, meaningful, enduring and sacrificial relationships.

That elevates the value of a place like Olivet Nazarene University. Olivet provides more than geographical community on a campus, physical community in dorms, social community through organizations and athletic teams, and spiritual community via chapel and ministry programs. It also provides service opportunities that build and sustain another kind of community — that which is borne out of giving one’s life away for the benefit of others.

Jesus, the One Who “did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life” (Matthew 20:28), is our model here. We encourage students to follow His example. Nothing lifts one’s sights and spirits more — nothing combats despair and discouragement more — than service to others. Genuine community, built on sacrificial service, gets formed in the process; such community is a defining feature common to Olivet graduates. Durkheim was right all along.

Following are some alumni from the past two decades who illustrate well what we mean by lives of service:

Nick Shelton ’02 and Anthony Deutsch ’17 both turned their dreams and hard work into careers with the U.S. Secret Service, where their lives of service protect the U.S. president, vice president and other dignitaries around the world.

Simone Twibell ’06 came to Olivet from South America, graduated, married and prepared for the ministry. After walking through “the valley of the shadow of death,” upon the loss of her husband due to brain cancer, she has embraced a life of service as an Olivet faculty member who influences students.

Ben Kayser ’02 went from being a top baseball prospect to a military officer to a life of service with the Navigators. He now disciples soldiers at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, modeling what it means to follow Christ and leading them in battle against the enemy of their souls.

Amanda Choi ’07 turned some dark days of pain and loss into a life of service in Jerusalem with Bridges for Peace, winsomely introducing Jews to their Messiah, Jesus.

LaMorris Crawford ’06 left Chicago’s South Side housing projects, poverty and violence to attend Olivet. Upon graduation he embarked on a life of service that has included being an NFL chaplain, pastor and speaker.

Grace Pelley ’18 has overcome physical challenges and entered a life of service that includes writing, editing and coaching others to do the same.

Josh Adams ’04 went on to medical school after Olivet and then joined the military, all in preparation for a life of service as a family doctor in Idaho.

Raechel Myers ’05 founded an organization known as She Reads Truth, adopting a life of service that encourages believers to open and read their Bibles in order to discover the truth and relevancy found there.

All of these — some overcoming pain, adversity and obstacles — have pursued lives of service and represent scores of other alumni. The result is twofold: Recipients of the service benefit, and strong community ties are formed that sustain and spread goodwill.

EDUCATION WITH A CHRISTIAN PURPOSE

Yes, Olivet seeks to send out graduates who are professionally prepared, personally developed and committed to lives of service. These three pillars make up our mission. The motto engraved in stone at the entrance to our campus reads, “Education With a Christian Purpose.” We contend that this noble mission, and nothing less, is what it means to engage in higher education. The decision of where to pursue a college education really does matter after all.

Nothing lifts one’s sights and spirits more — nothing combats despair and discouragement more — than service to others.

Genuine community, built on sacrificial service, gets formed in the process; such community is a defining feature common to Olivet graduates.

Kent R. Olney, Ph.D., has served as the dean of the College of Arts and Sciences at Olivet since 2021, following 26 years as a professor of sociology. Dr. Olney graduated from Asbury College in 1977, earned a Master of Divinity degree from Asbury Theological Seminary and a Master of Arts from Gallaudet University, and completed a Ph.D. from the University of Oregon. Dr. Olney and his wife, Beth, are the parents of Kyle and Luke ’10/’12 M.O.L., parents-in-law to Amber (McKean) ’08/’13 M.O.L. and Amber (Leffel) ’14, and the proud grandparents to five grandchildren.

WHAT TO DO SENIOR YEAR

The best way for your student to prepare for college is to make the most of senior year. Your daughter or son should dig into classes. Good study habits, focused determination and solid grades are the best preparation. She or he should invest in extracurricular activities that highlight athleticism, musical talent, leadership or public service. It will be a busy year, and graduation will be here before you know it. These steps, written for your student, will help your family navigate the enrollment process and get a head start on the college experience.

ASK THESE QUESTIONS

Does the college offer your major? Are there ample areas of study (in case you change majors)? Are the professors accessible in and out of the classroom? Are the professors renowned in their fields? Are the academic programs rigorous? After financial aid is awarded, how affordable is the school? How many students are in each class? Does the college have strong internship and study-abroad opportunities? What is the weather like? What defines the classroom experience? Are there added-value opportunities and services? What is the campus city or town like? Does the college provide a multicultural experience? How important is

distance from home? Is the campus near additional internships, jobs and culture? Does the college have on- and off-campus guidelines for living? Do you value institutional policies regarding residential life? What arts opportunities are available? Are there sports teams to cheer for? What are all the on- and off-campus dining options? Are there fitness activities for students? Does the college offer off-campus living? What are some alumni success stories? Are academic tutoring and career counseling readily offered? What clubs, intramural sports, ministries and volunteer activities exist? Is the college a good fit for you?

FALL

Visit! Fall is a great time to look at the schools on your college list. The perfect time to connect with students and professors is when classes are in session. Even sit in on a class or two.

Olivet Nazarene University’s Purple & Gold Days events are ideal for experiencing campus firsthand or virtually. Finalize a short list and rank those colleges. Use information gathered from campus visits, interviews and research to determine where to apply. Stay on track with grades and activities. Colleges look at senior year, so stay focused on classes and maintain commitments to extracurricular activities.

Take standardized tests. Register for and take the ACT, SAT or SAT Subject Tests as necessary. Add Olivet’s school code (001741) so test scores are automatically sent to Olivet. Keep track of deadlines. It’s important to know what is due when. Make a calendar showing the application deadlines for admission, financial aid and scholarships. Connect with your guidance counselor. Be sure the counselor knows where to send transcripts, score reports and letters of recommendation. Give the guidance counselor any necessary forms much earlier than the actual deadlines. Complete applications for colleges on your short list. Make sure the guidance office has sent all necessary materials, including test scores, recommendations, transcripts and application essays. Plan to get all this done before winter break so you won’t be rushed.

File the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Filing for the following school year starts on Oct. 1 of the current year. File as soon as possible to ensure access to eligible state and federal aid as well as priority status for scholarships. Some state programs have limited resources and are first-come, first-served. Continue your scholarship search.

Apply for scholarships with approaching deadlines and keep searching for more scholarship and grant opportunities. Using free online scholarship search tools is a great way to find potential aid. Ask colleges about their scholarship opportunities. Be sure to take this information into account when making a short list. A college’s sticker price can fluctuate greatly after financial aid and scholarships are applied. Talk with a financial aid representative at Olivet to discover how scholarships and financial aid change your bottom line.

WINTER

Follow up on applications. Verify with the guidance counselor that all forms are in order and have been sent. Send midyear grade reports. Ask your guidance counselor to send these reports to colleges on your short list. Remember, colleges will continue to keep track of grades, so it’s important to keep working hard throughout senior year. Review college financial aid packages. Though finances should never be the only factor in a decision, consider each package carefully, as not all colleges use the same format.

SPRING

Prepare! Take any last standardized tests and ACT/ SAT retakes (statistically, students improve their score on the second or third attempt). Take Advanced Placement tests or College-Level Examination Program tests to earn college credit as senior year winds down. Be sure to discuss these options with an enrollment adviser at each college on your short list, as every school awards college credit and academic scholarships differently.

Make the final college decision. Notify all schools of your intentions by May 1. If still undecided, schedule campus visits. Send the enrollment deposit and ask your guidance counselor to send a final transcript upon graduation. Submit any other required paperwork. Follow up on financial aid information. Be sure you have received a FAFSA confirmation and offer letter. If necessary, explore and apply for loans. Maintain contact with the financial aid adviser to discuss the best options for paying for college. Interact with future classmates. Attend college events, check out class pages on social media and finalize roommate selection.

SUMMER

Attend new student summer orientation. Finalize course selections, choose a dorm room, meet freshman classmates, interact with faculty and staff, and begin the exciting experience of the next four years.

UNDERSTANDING FINANCIAL AID

The college choice will be heavily influenced by how you and your student perceive cost and the financial aid process. Be sure to make decisions based on accurate information. You don’t want to rule out schools based on sticker shock when financial aid could bring those schools within reach.

What can we do to make college more affordable?

File your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), and file it as early as possible.

The FAFSA is the gateway to state and federal financial aid, and universities use this information to determine your student’s offers. The FAFSA can give access to grants as well as loans that tend to have lower interest rates with the most advantageous payback schedules. Some state grants have limited resources, so it’s important to file as soon as possible.

When can we file the FAFSA?

The 2025–2026 FAFSA form will be available for testing to a limited group of students and institutions starting on Oct. 1, 2024. The application will be available to all students on or before Dec. 1, 2024. The phased rollout is intended to identify and resolve system errors before the application opens to everyone.

After filing the FAFSA, what’s next?

The FAFSA allows your student to select up to 20 schools to automatically receive your family’s FAFSA information. Each school that has accepted your student for admission will then send a financial aid offer letter outlining the federal, state and institutional aid for which your student is eligible.

What role do standardized test scores play?

It’s important to find out how each admissions office handles test scores, as each school is different. If your student takes the ACT or SAT more than once (not required but permitted by both testing organizations), know that some universities take the highest score, while others take an average. A higher test score could improve an academic scholarship by thousands of dollars per year. Olivet Nazarene University is a test-preferred institution (standardized test scores not required as part of the admissions process).

Are there other scholarships available?

Some schools offer only academic scholarships. Most have additional opportunities. Like academic scholarships, these opportunities are provided on the basis of merit and/or participation. At Olivet there are scholarships for athletics, music (including Tiger Marching Band and University Orchestra), art, ministry and ROTC.

Is money available from sources other than the university?

YES! Students should seek out local and national scholarships. Consider organizations your student has been a part of, businesses you frequent and your employer. Many offer scholarships. For national scholarships, register at reputable websites such as fastweb.com, bigfuture.collegeboard.org or scholarships.com and begin applying as soon as possible. Never pay for scholarship searches. The reputable sources are always free.

What if we have a remaining balance?

The reality for most college students is that scholarships and government assistance alone do not fully cover tuition expenses. The remaining portion can be covered by parent loans, student loans or payment plans. There are many federal and private loan options. You should know that student loans require a cosigner. Payment plan options are unique to each institution. Financial aid isn’t a “one-size-fits-all” process, so work with your financial aid adviser to explore your best options.

What is a parent’s best resource for information?

This process can be overwhelming, so don’t be afraid to lean on financial aid advisers. They will work with you to find financial aid solutions based on your needs. Ask the tough questions and stay informed. The more involved you are, the easier it will be.

ASK THE EXPERTS

Olivet’s Office of Admissions is a great resource for families in every stage of the financial aid process.

Kimberly Strickland klstrickland@Olivet.edu

“It’s my pleasure each day to assist students and their families with their award packages. The options are almost limitless.”

Luke Franklin lfrankl1@Olivet.edu

“From afar it seems like a puzzle. But when we get into it, the facts come alive and paint a pretty clear, affordable picture.”

Scot Kraemer skraemer@Olivet.edu

“I love being able to walk with students through their financial aid offers and see the excitement as the next adventure unfolds in their lives.”

Tyler McLean tmclean@Olivet.edu

“It is such a privilege to help students and families, providing individualized attention and care as they explore their financial aid. Every situation is different, and I love sharing their excitement as we work together to create an affordable path to Olivet.”

Olivet’s financial aid team is available to answer your questions. Call 800-648-1463 and ask for a team member by name, or reach out via email.

TRANSFER CENTRIC

Each year more than 100 students transfer to Olivet Nazarene University to complete their college education. The Office of Admissions has a dedicated team of professionals who work exclusively with prospective transfer students to provide a smooth transition from one college experience to the next. Olivet offers competitive transfer scholarships, and students find that most of their credits transfer to the University.

Olivia Guban

Hometown: Elk Grove Village, Illinois

Major: Psychology

“Before Olivet, I attended [Harper College] in Palatine, Illinois, where I completed an [associate degree] in applied health science. I heard about Olivet through my pastors, who are ONU alumni, and through their shared experience, I decided to pray and ask the Lord if Olivet was where I was supposed to be. I considered transferring because I knew I wanted a private Christian school that was close to home and valued education from a Christian perspective. What drew me in was getting to talk to all of the professors on my tour and seeing how welcoming and passionate they were about what they do.

“Transferring to Olivet was easier than I thought it would be. The transfer counselors were always there to help me, which further confirmed the peace I felt about coming. I knew Olivet was the right fit for me after talking with some of my friends about their transfer experiences and how they felt ONU was a top-tier education with a Christian purpose. The newstudent programming was also a pivotal part of my transfer experience. It eased me into the chaos that comes along with being at a new school.

“I’ve connected at Olivet by joining the ONU dance team, which has been a family I never knew that I needed. Every Sunday I look forward to worshiping the Lord through dance and connecting with my Kingdom family. Another highlight from my ONU experience is the relationships I’ve built with professors. They have given me Godly wisdom through challenging moments in my life as a young 21-year-old.

“I would tell someone who is considering transferring colleges to soak in every moment, don’t take yourself too seriously, and rely on God for wisdom and guidance. You’ll never have these moments back, and college is a pivotal time for your personal growth and development.”

Josiah Johnson

Hometown: North Palm Beach, Florida

Majors: Economics/Finance-Applied Economics and Marketing-Management

“My college journey has been a little unique, to say the least. I previously attended Trinity International University (TIU) for two years. In February 2023, TIU announced they would be closing their undergraduate in-person program. I had two years left and knew that I wanted my years to be in person for the full college experience. I knew that I also wanted to find a school where I could add finance as a major. My soccer coach at Trinity recommended I look into Olivet.

“Olivet made the transfer process so easy. They made sure transfer students knew the important things from both an academic and social perspective through newstudent Orientation. When I got to Olivet, the first thing I noticed is that whenever you are walking around, people always say ‘hi.’ All of this support from faculty, staff and students helped me feel right at home from day one.

“One of my favorite memories at Olivet has been joining the football team. I joined at the end of my first semester, and it has been incredible. I had never played football, but the coaches saw that I had the potential to be a kicker.

“My advice for students who are considering transferring is to visit schools you’re interested in. Make sure to ask the professors in your area about the program and the potential outcomes after you graduate. If you are a student-athlete, make sure you interact with the team and coaching staff. These are the people you will be spending a lot of time with. As a student-athlete, you also need to make sure that you can see yourself at the school even if you never play your sport again. Injuries happen, so it is crucial to find a place [where] you can thrive academically and socially.”

Karen Villasenor

Hometown: Las Vegas, Nevada

Major: Multimedia Communication-Journalism

“I had a hard time figuring out what major felt right for me when I attended my local community college. I changed my major six times. When it was time for me to transfer to a four-year university, I was lost. I did not want to attend the local university and longed for a Christian environment that would help me grow. I was looking for universities when I remembered my pastor’s family always raved about ONU.

“The transfer experience was great! It was terrifying to come all the way to Illinois from Las Vegas, but my transfer counselor, Spencer, was wonderful. When I came for a visit, meeting with professors and walking around campus helped me know that the small community was a perfect fit for me.

“Connecting with the community at Olivet has been so easy. I am naturally a little shy, but everyone was so welcoming. I’ve been able to dive into the college experience because I felt truly accepted, which made me want to contribute back to the great community. I have never experienced so much Christ love from others before.

“My professors have shown me so much love, patience and genuine care for my education — particularly the entire communication department! When I was looking through the course descriptions of the classes and opportunities, the multimedia major felt like exactly what I should be doing. I have always loved to write, create and tell stories, but I didn’t know how to package it all together into a career. My major really excites me about my future profession. On campus I have my own radio show for Spark 89.7, our student-run radio station, and I work with Access ONU. All of those opportunities have really affirmed for me that I am in the career, the major and the place I should be.”

For more information, visit Olivet.edu/admissions/transfer-students

CHOOSING A MAJOR

So, you’re still exploring what to do with your life. You’re not alone. Each year about 17% of students entering college haven’t declared or decided on a major. Around 15% of Olivet Nazarene University’s incoming students are unsure of their exact field of study. Considering that nearly 50% of all college students change their major (at least once), why worry?

At Olivet higher education is focused on the liberal arts — where you get to explore all areas of knowledge and understanding: literature, science, religion, mathematics, health and the arts.

The Center for Academic Excellence strives to create a both a culture and climate that encourage students to explore all their educational and academic interests and assists students in identifying their specific career or calling. Not every student has a simple answer when asked the unavoidable question “What’s your major?” Welcome to the perfect place to explore all the possibilities that question presents.

PathwayU

Get free access to four assessments that help you learn more about your values, workplace preferences, interests and personality.

Catalog

Consult Olivet’s online course catalog for a list of available majors and requirements for each.

Imagine the Future

Review Olivet’s 140 areas of study. List careers you might want to pursue. Consider the majors that will help you get there.

CliftonStrengths

This assessment helps you discover the one true you. Find out more about what you naturally do best. Use the results to live your best life.

JumpStart Course

This course is a series of modules designed to be started before classes begin and continued through the first few weeks of the semester. The modules cover many of the resources and tools needed to thrive at Olivet.

JumpStart Conference

This two-day conference brings new students together before the beginning of classes to introduce you to college life and jump-start your Olivet experience. The conference begins on Sunday night with a worship service and continues on Monday morning.

JumpStart Mentors

Sophomore, junior and senior students will serve as mentors for you as you arrive on campus. The mentors will help you move in; attend the JumpStart Conference with you and your freshman or transfer group; and support you throughout your first semester at Olivet.

Career Coaching

Meet with a career coach or faculty adviser to work through the rewarding process of choosing your major.

Introductory Courses

Take the first course in up to two areas that interest you. Sample before committing.

Shadowing Experiences

Learn more about the careers that interest you. Reach out to professionals in those fields. Arrange to interview them or shadow them on the job.

Prayer

Ask God to direct you in your decisions. Listen for His answers.

ASK THESE QUESTIONS:

What is most important to me in a career?

In which areas do I naturally excel?

What do I most enjoy doing?

Which majors fit best with my personality?

What do I most think about regarding the future?

For which issue or cause am I most passionate?

If I could do anything I wanted and knew I would be successful, what would I do?

What is God’s dream for me?

THEN, FIND THE ANSWERS HERE:

Academic Support

Peer educators help students working toward mastery of course content or looking to build academic skills. Tailoring each session to the needs of the learner helps to create purposeful and intentional pathways toward academic achievement. Students develop greater understanding, improve critical-thinking skills and learn the value of independent scholarship, empowering them to persist in their studies.

Career Development

Students explore careers and employment opportunities using a variety of resources. Assistance with résumés, cover letters, the job search process and interviewing skills sets students apart in the professional world. Job fairs give potential employers opportunities to meet students. The Handshake platform connects employers with job seekers and job seekers with employment.

Counseling Services

When stresses build, professional counselors are available to help students grow and succeed. Students’ well-being is the top priority at Olivet.

Health and Wellness Services

Being healthy physically benefits students as they pursue their education and prepare for their future careers. Students have access to personalized, quality health care and counseling services.

A COMPASSIONATE PLACE TO LEARN AND GROW

Dr. Jason Stephens, Vice President for Student Development

Each fall Olivet Nazarene University welcomes hundreds of first-year students to our beautiful campus. Many come from Nazarene homes, are children of alumni, or have been to campus frequently and feel excited about now being an Olivet student. Others might be the first in their family to attend college, come alone without friends, or have other fears about what the next four years might hold.

I came to college knowing no one. No one from my high school came, no one from my church came, and I was not the child of alumni. While both of my parents went to college, my mom went to a large state school and lived at home throughout, and my dad was an adult learner and graduated when I was in high school. I was nervous about what college might hold. Little did I know that these four (in my case, five) critical years would allow me to develop deep friendships, be mentored by amazing faculty and staff, and experience God in unique and dynamic ways. These experiences set me on a path to be the person I am today.

At Olivet we recognize that students take different journeys to campus and might be uncertain about the path ahead. We aim to stand as a beacon of compassion and support for them. More than just an institution of higher learning, Olivet is a community where students not only gain knowledge but also find a place where they can truly learn and grow, know they matter, and cultivate a sense of belonging.

At the heart of Olivet’s ethos lies a deep commitment to nurturing the holistic development of students. The University’s compassionate approach is evident in every aspect of campus life, from a dedicated faculty and staff to a vibrant student body.

One of the key pillars of Olivet’s compassionate environment is an emphasis on supportive relationships. Professors are not just educators but mentors who take a genuine interest in their students’ well-being. They create a nurturing learning environment where students feel comfortable seeking guidance and support, both academically

and personally. This personalized attention fosters a sense of belonging and empowers students to reach their fullest potential.

Beyond the classroom, Olivet offers a myriad of support services to ensure that every student thrives. From academic advising and tutoring to counseling and career guidance, the University provides comprehensive support systems designed to address the diverse needs of the student body. No matter the challenge, students have a network of caring individuals ready to assist them every step of the way.

Olivet is also deeply committed to creating a campus community where every student feels valued and respected. The University celebrates an increasingly diverse student body. Through various cultural events, student organizations and initiatives, Olivet encourages dialogue and engagement across different backgrounds, fostering a rich tapestry of perspectives and experiences rooted in Christian community.

In addition to fostering a compassionate and supportive environment, Olivet places a strong emphasis on helping students develop into well-rounded individuals. The University offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including athletics, performing arts, volunteer opportunities and campus ministries. These activities not only provide students with valuable leadership skills and practical experience but also contribute to their personal growth and character development.

Furthermore, Olivet instills in students a sense of purpose and service to others. Rooted in the tradition of the Church of the Nazarene, the University encourages students to live out their faith through acts of compassion and service. Whether through local outreach programs or international mission trips, students have ample opportunities to make a positive impact on the world around them, embodying the University’s mission of “Education With a Christian Purpose.”

Olivet is only able to accomplish this success through a partnership with parents and loved ones. When students arrive at Olivet, they enter a community with great mentors that will become influential in their lives. Yet the campus workforce is not meant to replace the important role of parents and loved ones in the lives of students.

In partnering with parents for the holistic success of college students, Olivet fosters open communication channels, inviting parents into the educational journey. We invite parents to participate in events like athletic games, Homecoming weekend and Grandparents Day. These events strengthen the bond between the University and families. Encouraging parents to actively participate in campus activities fosters a sense of community. By aligning educational values with parental support, Olivet nurtures an environment where students can thrive academically, spiritually and personally.

I am a product of the type of community that Olivet offers. I entered college aspiring to be a chief financial officer. During my college years, I encountered God in deep and profound ways, became more confident in who He created me to be, and found a new vocation that God had placed in my life. That new vocation has led me to become Olivet’s vice president for student development, a position that helps to foster the very living and learning environments for students to have profound experiences at the University. I am proud to work at Olivet and see lives be transformed to expand God’s Kingdom.

Jason Stephens, Ph.D., is the University’s vice president for student development and a member of the President’s Cabinet. With more than 15 years of leadership experience in higher education, he holds a master’s degree in higher education from Geneva College and earned his Ph.D. in educational leadership from Indiana State University. A native of Pendleton, Indiana, Dr. Stephens is married to Kendra. They are the parents of Caleb and Hannah.

MAKING THE MOST OF YOUR COLLEGE EXPERIENCE

Lauren Beatty

You can go to college anywhere. That is, perhaps, a controversial thing for a university marketing department to publish. But it’s true. There are nearly 4,000 colleges and universities in the United States for students to choose from and as many areas of study as one can imagine. However, not every higher education institution offers an experience that encourages students to grow mind, body and soul. There are even fewer that focus first on spiritual development.

The mission of Olivet Nazarene University is to provide high-quality academic instruction for the purpose of personal development, career and professional readiness, and the preparation of individuals for lives of service to God and humanity. We know that in order to set up our students for success beyond the graduation stage, they need to develop a confident sense of self within a supportive community that inspires growth of their faith, their social connections, their mental and physical wellbeing, and, of course, their academic preparation.

You can go to college anywhere, but we hope you choose somewhere that will stimulate exceptional levels of growth. We believe that place is Olivet.

Focus on Faith

Olivet seeks to provide a community-centered environment in which students can find the intersection of belief and belonging. The University is founded on Christian principles and lifestyle standards, but the student body represents more than 40 denominations, religions and faith backgrounds, which bring forth diversity of thought and conversation.

Twice a week, students, faculty and staff gather in the 3,000-seat Betty and Kenneth Hawkins Centennial Chapel to participate in corporate worship and hear from renowned pastors, authors, business leaders, professional athletes, artists and other skilled guest speakers. As part of their Christian liberal arts education, Olivet students complete courses that unpack the relevance of Scripture and Christian traditions. Faculty incorporate devotionals into their curriculum and create an environment for asking questions and seeking answers.

The Office of Spiritual Development encompasses the discipleship and evangelism initiatives to engage in seven abiding habits: God’s Word, prayer, worship, fellowship, servanthood, stewardship and witnessing. Freshmen are encouraged to join a Belong Group to gain community support as they transition into college life. Huddles offer an intentional space for sophomores, juniors and seniors to delve deeper into discipleship and theological discussions as they foster accountability among their peers.

Beyond the classroom, opportunities abound for students to further their faith journeys through student ministries and community engagement projects. The Office of Spiritual Development provides programming that equips leaders who are strong in their spiritual formation and creates a vibrant campus environment in which all students feel they belong.

Many of the student spiritual life activities are wrapped into the Shalom Project, an initiative whose mission is to inspire, empower and equip the campus community in the creative act of restoring broken relationships through ministry opportunities on and off campus. Two ministry groups that cater to the campus community include Prayer Warriors, a group that empowers and encourages the campus through prayer and Scripture study, and Heart4Missions, which provides a space for students to learn more about missional service.

Off-campus volunteer opportunities include groups like Life Support, which partners with the local Living Alternatives Pregnancy Resource Center; Manna, which serves the local homeless population; Kingdom Builders, a ministry that uses building and construction projects to benefit families in Pembroke and Kankakee; and Aspire, which partners with the City Life Center to provide tutoring and mentoring for local middle and high school students. Each year the entire campus community is encouraged to participate in Serve Day to support the work of local community organizations. Students also benefit from exposure to faith in action in different parts of the country and the world on yearly mission trips. These cross-cultural encounters help to expand students’ worldviews and perspectives on how people live around the world.

Expand the Mind

A strong educational foundation sets up students for success in careers full of meaning and purpose, and Olivet is consistently ranked and endorsed as a top institution for its academic programs. The University offers more than 140 majors, minors and concentrations to undergraduate students (and an additional 20-plus areas of study for graduate and continuing studies candidates).

Most areas of study require mentored learning experiences, such as clinical rotations, student teaching, job shadowing or internships. These opportunities allow students to apply what they have learned in the classroom directly into the industry in which they are pursuing a career. Students have completed internships with industry leaders including NASA, the Grand Rapids Museum of Art, the Mississippi Aquarium, the Chicago Shakespeare Theatre, Nucor Steel and Caterpillar Inc. as well as local churches, hospitals, school districts, political campaigns, nonprofit organizations and more.

Students are encouraged to pursue research projects under faculty mentorship to deepen their comprehension of a subject as they contribute to the global knowledge base. Those who are interested in exploring internationally may spend a semester or summer studying off campus through more than 15 established partnerships with higher education institutions which promote interactive scholarship from Honduras to Uganda. As they combine travel with education, students gain insight into and appreciation for the varied cultures, languages and traditions that exist elsewhere in the world.

Body in Motion

The residential nature of Olivet facilitates ample opportunities for students to develop socially, emotionally and physically. The University offers more than 90 academic department service clubs, organizations, multiethnic affinity associations, interest groups and honor societies to cater to the wide range of interests and passions represented in the student body.

Each semester the Office of Student Development plans a full program of social activities across campus for students to have fun and build inclusive relationships. Students enjoy yearly traditions and special activities, including Ollies Follies class competitions, the Rock and Glow silent disco, an annual Christmas party, live-band karaoke, the Mr. ONU skit and talent show, plays and musicals, outdoor movies, contemporary music concerts provided by Shine.FM, and other gatherings that encourage students to connect with their peers. Students also oversee the annual publication process of the Aurora yearbook.

Athletic Activities

The Perry Student Life and Recreation Center houses a swimming pool, a four-story climbing wall, a field house, fitness facilities, weekly exercise classes, study spaces and gaming areas — all of which are available for students to use for free.

Olivet also boasts a robust intramural program with 20 sports offered at a variety of levels. On average, more than 1,400 students participate in at least one intramural sport each year.

Students who want to play sports at an intercollegiate competitive level can go through the recruitment process for any of the University’s 21 varsity athletic teams or the men’s club ice hockey team. Coed sports include cheerleading and varsity esports.

Olivet athletic teams compete nationally through affiliation in the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) and through conference play in the Chicagoland Collegiate Athletic Conference (CCAC), Mid-States Football Association and Kansas Collegiate Athletic Conference (swimming). Multiple alumni have built on their college training to compete professionally with teams including the Chicago Cubs, the New York Yankees, the Chicago Fire and USA Track and Field.

For 15 consecutive years, Olivet’s athletic program has won the CCAC All-Sports Cup, which is based on championships and rankings across CCACaffiliated sports. In addition, when it comes to success in the classroom, hundreds of Olivet

athletes are consistently named to the CCAC All-Academic Team each year. Scholarships are available for many student-athletes.

Engaging in the Arts

From its inception as a liberal arts higher education institution, Olivet has supported creative growth through performances and exhibitions that feature student accomplishments in the areas of drama, art and music. ONU Theatre produces a full season of musicals and plays ranging from Broadway favorites to Pulitzer Prize winners to original productions. Many shows are student-directed, and all productions allow for student involvement beyond the stage, including costuming, choreography, set design, set construction, sound design, lighting design and production assistant roles.

Students who are interested in artistic exploration may take courses within the Department of Art and Digital Media. Rotating exhibitions are displayed in gallery areas around campus throughout the year to showcase student work. There are also a variety of on-campus student photography, videography and graphic designer roles that allow students to gain work experience as they hone their craft.

More than 600 students are involved annually in the over 20 vocal and instrumental ensembles offered through the School of Music. Regardless of major, all students who are musically inclined are encouraged to get involved. Groups include the Tiger Marching Band, University Orchestra, Jazz Band, Wind Ensemble, Orpheus Choir, Proclamation Gospel Choir, Concert Singers, Sound of Praise and Piano Ensemble. These and many other ensembles offer some merit-based and participation scholarships.

The School of Music offers a variety of performance opportunities, including annual performances of Handel’s Messiah and the holiday favorite Sounds of the Season concert, and it partners with the

Department of Theatre to produce the spring musical. Additionally, many music ensembles travel throughout the country and around the world to minister through music. The Tiger Marching Band has performed in London, in Rome and at the U.S. presidential inauguration; Concert Singers has traveled to Greece, Paraguay, Brazil and Bulgaria; and Orpheus Choir has taken trips to Kenya and Puerto Rico.

Making the Most

Regardless of what students choose to study, there are endless opportunities for growth while experiencing life at Olivet, which has been committed to offering an “Education With a Christian Purpose” since 1907. The mission to be a higher education institution that holistically strengthens the minds as well as the physical and spiritual well-being of students has remained as the school continues to grow programs, invest in infrastructure, enhance accessibility, evolve policies and increase the capacity to care for campus and online communities.

We want our students to grow personally and professionally as they make the most of their college experience, and we know that the basis of that growth is a healthy sense of belonging within a community, which is something our students, faculty, staff and alumni constantly mention when talking about what makes Olivet a great institution. You can go to college anywhere, but we believe that you belong here.

Beatty ’13 is a freelance writer, author, editor and an adjunct professor in the Department of Communication at

She earned a Master of Arts degree in cross-cultural and sustainable business management from the American University of Paris in 2014. Her thesis explored the evolution of socially responsible business practices in America. In 2020 she co-founded Philo Collective, a small business offering Europeaninspired baked goods, yoga classes, workshops and other events.

Lauren

Olivet.

IN PURSUIT OF A CALLING: A PROCESS IN BECOMING

with Dr. Amber Residori

Society puts an immense amount of pressure on young adults to figure out what they want to do “when they grow up.” Common questions of juniors and seniors in high school center on where they plan to go to college and what they want to study — both of which imply that young adults should have their next steps perfectly calculated and planned

Perhaps a better focus should be on who they want to become, suggests Dr. Amber Residori ’93, dean of the College of Professional Studies. She frequently speaks to incoming freshmen and transfer students about spending less time fretting about picking a major and more time considering their inherent talents and abilities and how they might use those gifts to build a purpose-driven life.

“I wish I had a megaphone and permission to walk the hallways of high schools everywhere so I could tell students, ‘You do NOT need to have a major picked before coming to college,’” says Dr. Residori. “Students put a lot of pressure on themselves to have huge life decisions made before they’re even 18 years old. Choosing a career [path] is important … but it is far more important for students — especially as they make college visits — to ask questions and understand how a university will walk beside them, guide them and help lead them through a process of finding their calling than to immediately commit to a major.”

Part of the process of becoming is for students to experiment. Dr. Residori emphasizes that one of the simplest ways to figure out what the best college fit will be is to visit different campus environments.

“You don’t need to have everything figured out,” she says. “You just need to take the next step. Pay attention to how you feel when you’re on a campus, and imagine yourself growing, learning and developing beside the students, professors and staff you meet during your visit.”

It can also be very beneficial to connect with mentors, family members, coaches and friends who appear to be grounded in purposeful careers and volunteer work. Asking questions about their personal journeys can be very enlightening for young adults, but Dr. Residori cautions against idolizing their apparent successes.

“We admire the accomplishments of our role models and often want to capture their unique qualities so that we can emulate their success,” she says. “Ironically, these role models would likely explain that they have not yet fully become. Instead, their unique quality is that they have never quit becoming. They have been mindful to capture valuable life lessons that were embedded within failure and success and within the mundane and the exciting.

“You see, individuals who have truly become never settle. They stretch themselves so that they are constantly in the process of developing, improving and transforming. One of the greatest gifts we can give ourselves is ongoing learning, a commitment to stretching, and a life filled with intellectual, personal and professional growth.”

Olivet Nazarene University, a liberal arts institution, is committed to guiding students through the growth-filled process of becoming. A liberal arts education offers a comprehensive way of teaching young adults how to think — not what to think — so they become well-rounded individuals. This holistic approach exposes students to an array of academic disciplines like the arts, humanities, social sciences, mathematics and natural sciences, all of which count toward graduation requirements.

“We know that college years are a key time in students’ lives when they continue to clarify their values, morals and the lens through which they see the world.”

“Employers want to hire individuals who have strong character and can think comprehensively, communicate well, consider alternatives when solving problems and work successfully within a team,” says Dr. Residori. “A liberal arts education provides these skills and prepares students for a lifetime of becoming. We know that college years are a key time in students’ lives when they continue to clarify their values, morals and the lens through which they see the world, so where they attend college and who walks beside them matters immensely.”

Certain jobs and industries require specific educational trainings, licensing and postgraduate degrees, but Dr. Residori suggests that everyone can benefit from educational opportunities that integrate personal development into career preparedness.

“Our students become doctors, social workers, engineers, accountants, pastors and countless other careers while fulfilling dreams they may have imagined since childhood,” she says. “But, more importantly, our students become men and women who lead, who are committed to ongoing growth, and who strive to glorify God as they serve professionally and personally. Becoming is a process, and we are grateful for the privilege of walking beside students as they realize how their unique qualities were designed by God to serve His Kingdom and love His people in incredible ways.”

Dr. Amber Residori ’93/’17 Ed.D. is the dean of the College of Professional Studies and a licensed clinical social worker. She has worked extensively in residential treatment settings with youth and adolescents who struggle with emotional and behavioral disorders. She has a wide range of experience developing new programs, including outpatient therapy, transitional living and acute inpatient psychiatric hospital programs. She previously served at Olivet as a social work professor, as chair of the Department of Social Work and Criminal Justice, and as dean of the School of Life and Health Sciences.

The University Honors Program provides the opportunity for academically gifted students to develop their scholarly abilities through intensive interdisciplinary coursework, enrichment activities and a two-year mentored research project.

Over the past 14 years, the Honors Program has graduated 160 students, all of whom completed a capstone research project and thesis supervised by a faculty mentor in their respective disciplines. These significant undergraduate research experiences open the door for leadership opportunities in academia and industry.

The graduating cohort of 2024 included representatives from the fields of business administration, international business, finance, biology, kinesiology, psychology, sociology, computer science, music education and studio art. Their research projects covered such varied topics as the effects of mat Pilates on lower limb strength and

HONORS PROGRAM

agility in young adults; the therapeutic use of music for geriatric dementia patients; an evaluation of environmental, social and governance standards of fund performance in the United States and European Union; the correlation between attachment type and anxiety levels in stepfamilies; and how optimism and spirituality have an effect on burnout in educators.

To be eligible for application to the Honors Program, students must meet at least one of the following qualifications: have an ACT score of 28 or an equivalent SAT score; graduate in the top 10% of their graduating class; or have an unweighted GPA of at least 3.75 on a 4.0 scale.

Students in the program participate in a sequence of team-taught, discussion-based classes during their freshman and sophomore years that satisfy four of Olivet’s core general education curriculum requirements. These courses explore what it means to be human and expose students to the Christian liberal arts tradition.

Each cohort begins the Olivet experience with freshman Honors Program welcome weekend activities and caps coursework with a cultural excursion to Chicago during the sophomore year. In their junior and senior years, students receive funding for travel and supplies related to their research projects, and they complete their studies under the supervision of a faculty mentor of their choosing.

The culmination of students’ research is published in ELAIA: The Olivet Nazarene University Honors Journal. All volumes of ELAIA can be read online at issuu.com/Olivet. For more details about the Honors Program and application information, visit Olivet.edu/Honors.

SCHOLARSHIP AND MENTORSHIP

The Martin D. Walker School of STEM offers nationally recognized programs in engineering, biological sciences, mathematics, geology and computer sciences. Students benefit from excellent facilities, experienced faculty and numerous internship opportunities through programs that integrate a Christian worldview with education. Graduates are launched into successful careers from a community committed to excellence and innovation.

FOR PARENTS

PARENT & FAMILY NETWORK

Discover ways to keep up with and encourage your Olivet student throughout his or her academic, social and spiritual journey at Olivet. To receive quarterly communication (important dates, upcoming events and resources for parents) during the school year, sign up at Olivet.edu/parents

PRAYER GUIDE

We have created the “31-Day Prayer Guide” for parents of college students and those preparing for college. To receive your free copy for parents and families, visit Olivet.edu/parents, or scan the code.

FIRST PERSON

Jorge Bonilla, Director of Aspira Recruitment

Translated Into Spanish by Olivet Students in SPAN 450: Interpretation/Translation

Language | lan·guage | ′laŋ-gwij | The words, their pronunciation, and the methods of combining them used and understood by a community. —Merriam-Webster Dictionary

Being able to understand a conversation through words that make sense is a blessing many people take for granted when living in communities and family groups that speak the same language. Olivet Nazarene University’s Director of Aspira Recruitment Jorge Bonilla understands that implicitly.

“Language builds trust; it builds relationships,” he says. “That is so important as we recruit in new markets. Families need to understand what they’re getting into. Being that bridge for Hispanic and first-generation families has been really rewarding.”

Born in El Estado de Mexico, Jorge grew up speaking primarily Spanish. Then he met his wife, Dr. Nancy (Urbon) Bonilla ’96, while she was working at a Mexican orphanage where he was the principal of the grade school. They shared a common heart for mission work, a common faith in God and two common languages, Spanish and English.

They married in Mexico and continued mission work in the country until both felt called to move to the United States for career changes. After completing graduate work, Nancy received an offer to teach Spanish at Olivet. Soon after, Jorge took a job as the retention coordinator for Olivet’s Center for Student Success.

In his first few years at Olivet, Jorge provided counseling, advising, case management, mentoring and leadership. He was particularly drawn to helping first-generation students, Hispanic students and others who needed extra support for the rigor of a college experience.

“It was very fulfilling to provide counseling services to students in the official capacity,” he says. “I tried to add value to the students’ lives. I always told them, ‘You can make it,’ and many did. Olivet is a place you can become a leader and learn how to add value and invest back in your community after college. A lot of students have a desire to really do something for their families. To achieve that dream, completing college is often one step in that journey.”

Two years ago, Jorge took a job in Olivet’s Office of Admissions. He was instrumental in creating the Aspira Recruitment initiative with a purpose to educate and inspire first-generation Hispanic students to thrive in college. He has collaborated with colleague Daneli (Rabanalez Hernandez) Hentschel ’17/’19 MBA to translate admissions paperwork, meet with Spanishspeaking families and advocate to offer translation headsets for families during large admissions events such as Orientation.

“I’m passionate about closing the achievement gap for Hispanic students,” he says. “We have to widen the entradas — how we welcome and provide support for families. There is so much richness in the Hispanic culture. We can celebrate that at Olivet.

“To me, culture is an environment where you can feel you can be yourself. You are your culture, your family. We want you to continue to be that at Olivet — who God created you to be. That familia is right here. We want students to embrace their own culture, language, traditions while doing the same college journey together.”

Jorge Bonilla has a Master of Arts in Counseling degree from Lincoln Christian University and maintains his Illinois license for clinical counseling. Jorge and Nancy live in Bourbonnais with their four children, Alex, Abby, Aime and Eduardo.

For more information about Aspira, visit Olivet.edu/resources-hispanic -and-latino-students-and-families

Jorge Bonilla,

PRIMERA PERSONA

El Director de Reclutamiento de Aspira

Traducido por los Estudiantes de SPAN 450: Interpretación/Traducción

Lenguaje | len·gua-je | len ‘gwaxe | Facultad del ser humano de expresarse y comunicarse con los demás a través del sonido articulado o de otros sistemas de signos —Real Academia Española

Ser capaz de entender una conversación a través de palabras que tienen sentido es una bendición que muchas personas dan por sentado cuando viven en comunidades y grupos familiares que hablan el mismo lenguaje. El director de reclutamiento de Aspira Jorge Bonilla entiende eso implícitamente.

“El lenguaje desarrolla la confianza; construye las relaciones. Comprender esto es muy importante cuando reclutamos en nuevos lugares. Las familias necesitan entender en lo que se comprometen. Ser un ayuda para las familias hispanas y de primera generación me ha dado mucha satisfacción.”

Jorge nació en el estado de México y creció hablando español como lengua materna. Luego, conoció a su esposa, la Dra. Nancy (Urbon) Bonilla ’96, mientras ella trabajaba en una casa hogar en México donde él era el director de la escuela primaria. Ellos compartieron una pasión común para las misiones, una fe común en Dios y dos lenguajes comunes, español e inglés.

Se casaron en México y continuaron el trabajo de misiones en el país hasta que los dos se sintieran llamados a mudarse a los Estados Unidos para un cambio de carrera. Después de cumplir el trabajo de posgrado, Nancy recibió una oferta para enseñar español en Olivet. Poco después, Jorge aceptó un trabajo como el coordinador de retención en el Centro de Éxito de Estudiantes en Olivet.

Durante los primeros años en Olivet, Jorge proveyó el consejo, la gestión de casos, el mentoreo, y el liderazgo. Particularmente, él quería ayudar a los estudiantes de primera generación, los estudiantes hispanos y otros que necesitaban apoyo adicional para la rigurosidad de la experiencia universitaria.

“Fue una experiencia muy gratificante aconsejarlos a los estudiantes en una capacidad oficial. Yo intenté añadir valor a las vidas de los estudiantes. Siempre les decía ‘pueden alcanzarlo’ y muchos lo hicieron. Olivet es un lugar donde puedes hacerte un líder y aprender a añadir valor a tu vida e invertir de nuevo en tu comunidad después de la universidad. Muchos estudiantes tienen un deseo de cumplir algo especial para sus familias. Para realizar este sueño, cumplir la universidad frecuentemente es un paso en este viaje.”

Hace dos años, Jorge aceptó un trabajo en la Oficina de Admisiones de Olivet. Fue instrumental en crear la iniciativa del reclutamiento de Aspira con el propósito de educar e inspirar a los estudiantes hispanos de primera generación para que prosperen en la universidad. Ha colaborado con su colega Daneli (Rabanalez Hernández) Hentschel ’17/’19 MBA para traducir el trámite de admisiones, reunirse con familias hispanohablantes y ofrecer los auriculares traductores para las familias durante eventos grandes de admisiones como la Orientación.

“Estoy muy apasionado por cerrar la brecha de logros para los estudiantes hispanos. Tenemos que ensanchar las entradas – cómo damos la bienvenida y apoyamos a las familias. Hay tanta riqueza en la cultura hispana. ¡Podemos celebrar ésta en Olivet!

“Para mí, la cultura es un ambiente donde puedes sentirte en casa, donde puedes ser tú mismo. Eres tu cultura, tu familia. Queremos que continúes siendo así en Olivet– ser quién Dios te creó a ser. Esta familia está aqui. Queremos que los estudiantes acojan su cultura, lengua, y tradiciones mientras toman juntos el mismo paso de la universidad.”

Jorge Bonilla tiene una Maestría de Arte de Consejería Cristiana de Lincoln Christian University y mantiene su licencia en Illinois para proveer consejería clínica. Jorge y Nancy viven en Bourbonnais con sus cuatro hijos, Alex, Abby, Aimé y Eduardo.

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.

ATHLETICS

Home of the ONU Tigers, Olivet studentathletes compete on 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.

ACCREDITATION

Olivet 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.

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 University Marching Band and the University Orchestra); drama and musical theatre performances; intramural athletics; and community volunteer and spiritual life organizations.

CAMPUS

Olivet 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 2022 Olivet joined the ranks of 508 internationally accredited arboreta with a Level I Certification through the Morton Arboretum’s interactive community, ArbNet.

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” (University Catalog, 1915).

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 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, and the Forbes global media company ranked the MBA program 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 has received special badges for the schools of Business, STEM, Education and Nursing. Special recognition has also been awarded by WalletHub as a Top 10 Illinois College.

OLIVET.EDU

Olivet Nazarene University graduate degrees and certificates offer more than advancement; they offer real career development. Areas of study include business, education, nursing, ministry and ethical leadership — all of which keep Olivet students centered on purpose.

We offer more than 20 convenient and affordable programs and degree opportunities. Students can choose from the online M.O.L., M.S.N., RN-B.S.N., RN-M.S.N., Ed.D., M.A.E., FNP, M.Div. or the M.A. — and some can be completed in as little as one year.

APPLY TODAY!

UNDERGRADUATE AREAS OF STUDY AND GRADUATE DEGREE PROGRAMS

COLLEGE OF ARTS AND SCIENCES

Art

Art – Drawing/Painting

Art – Graphic Design

Art – Media Arts

Art – Photography

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 –Ministry Media

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

Social Science Education

Sociology

Spanish

Spanish Education

Theatre Production & Performance

Writing

SCHOOL OF MUSIC

Music

Music – Composition

Music Education

Music – Jazz Studies

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

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

Dietetics

Family & Consumer Sciences –Hospitality

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 B.S.N.

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

FINDING FRIENDSHIP

At Olivet there are so many ways for students to connect with each other through academic, social, athletic and spiritual activities. The University emphasizes community, and relationships are made to last beyond graduation.