THE PRESIDENT’S DINNER for FACULTY, STAFF and RETIREES
THURSDAY, AUGUST 22, 2024
OLIVET NAZARENE UNIVERSITY
Welcome
Tammy and I welcome work colleagues and their spouses to this 74th President’s Dinner! Once again, we gather together as a campus community to celebrate the mission of Olivet and rededicate ourselves to this place, this work, and these people. Our hope for the night is that you drive home feeling seen, known, and appreciated.
The theme of the evening is “I See You.” Some universities only look at each other; some even look away, leaving students to their whims. But imagine Olivet as a “seeing” place. We can learn from folks in southern Africa who speak Zulu. They greet each other by saying, “Sawubona” — literally, “I see you.” This is more than politeness. It recognizes the worth and dignity of each person. It says, “I see the whole of you — your experiences, your passions, your pain, your strengths and weaknesses, and your future. You are valuable to me.”
We take pause, not only to see one another but to give thanks that we are seen by El Roi — the God who sees us (Genesis 16:13).
Our special thanks to our Director of Human Resources Tom Ascher, who hosts our program, to our Resident Assistants for serving the meal, to our Media team for their production of tonight’s program, and to Sodexo for the meal we enjoy together. Additionally, thank you to our special guests, with special thanks to spouses who support their loved one’s valuable service to our great cause at Olivet.
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GREGG AND TAMMY CHENOWETH
WELCOME Tammy Chenoweth First Lady
SPECIAL MUSIC ................................ Luke and Amber Olney
“His Eye is on the Sparrow”
RECOGNITION OF SPECIAL GUESTS AND INTRODUCTION OF NEW FACULTY AND NEW STAFF ... Tom Ascher Director of Human Resources
PRESIDENTIAL RECOGNITIONS ......................... Tom Ascher Years of Service Awards
Staff Member of the Year Dr. Gregg Chenoweth Faculty Member of the Year University President
PRESIDENTIAL ADDRESS ........................ Dr. Gregg Chenoweth
“I See You,” Gen. 16:13
PASS THE PIN ........................................... Alyssa Phelps
Associate Director of University Relations & Engagement
MENU ___
SALAD COURSE
Assorted mixed baby greens served with fresh berries, roasted beet root, herb-crusted goat cheese with a honey-balsamic dressing
MAIN COURSE
Chicken Florentine served with a garlic Parmesan whipped potato and roasted carrots
SPECIALTY PLATE
Tri-color quinoa cake topped with a cannellini bean and spinach and tomato ragout
STROLLING DESSERT BUFFET
Churro bites, donut holes, rice krispy treat squares and cheesecake balls served in bamboo cones; Toppings to include caramel, chocolate, cinnamon cream and tropical fruit sauce
Chocolate dipped sugar cones filled with cannoli filling and garnished with chopped pistachios and mini chocolate chips
House made gluten free/dairy free waffle cone filled with assorted fruit
Your servers this evening are the Resident Hall Assistants.
PRESIDENT’S SPECIAL RECOGNITION
2024 FACULTY MEMBER OF THE YEAR
Dale Hathaway, Ph.D.
Professor and Associate Dean of the Martin D. Walker School of STEM
I BELIEVE THAT WHEN GOD created the universe, the mathematical structure was put in place,” says Dr. Dale Hathaway, professor of mathematics and associate dean for the Martin D. Walker School of STEM. “As we find out more about that structure, we’re finding out more about what God has put in place for us.”
Having devoted more than 40 years of professional pursuits to the study of mathematics, Dale implicitly knows (and loves) that math touches everything; thus, indicating an intentionality of the handiwork of God. His inherent passion for solving problems developed when he studied math at Eastern Nazarene College and deepened during his master’s and doctoral studies at Boston University.
that there is always more to discover about the subject, and therefore, life.
“Mathematicians say that there really is a beauty about math,” Dale says. “But it is also full of logic and facts. My goal is to share my enthusiasm for and excitement about that duality of math with my students.”
His impact on students has been immense, despite his self-proclaimed extreme introversion. In 2004, Dale was the student-nominated recipient of the Second Mile Award, and in 2011, he received the Samuel L. Mayhugh award for Scholarly Excellence.
“I would never want to step into a role in which I didn’t teach,” he notes, “but the fact that I make my living getting in front of people and talking has to be from God.”
In 1989, Dale and his wife, Heather, moved to the Midwest to begin his teaching career at Olivet, where he has since taught courses ranging from Statistics to the Senior Seminar in Mathematics. Outside of the classroom, Dale has contributed to scholarly articles (particularly on the topic of the “Birthday Problem”); presented at professional conferences; and written two books. One, a mathematical devotional book; the other, a textbook that is used on campus and whose royalties help support an ONU foundation scholarship that was initiated by Dale to specifically benefit mathematics majors.
Over the years, Dale has also mentored multiple Pence-Boyce and University Honors Program capstone projects. The ability to follow the tangential nature of research has provided a fresh perspective on mathematics, reinforcing the fact
Since 2022, Dale has also served as the associate dean of the School of STEM. The administrative work provides its own unique set of problems to solve, but also, new opportunities to connect with and advocate for more than 30 faculty and staff members who collectively represent six academic disciplines..
“The areas of study offered by the School of STEM address how we can try to understand this world that we have. I hope that our students leave Olivet knowing that Christianity and science can, and do, go hand-in-hand. Scientific study is about the how, Christianity is more about the why — but both questions are valid and should be explored.”
Dale and Heather live in Bourbonnais. They are the proud parents of three adult children Lauren ’13, Lindsay ’16 (Jordan) and David ’18.
Dale, for your loyal commitment to academic excellence, passion for solving problems, ability to see the beauty in mathematics, and faithful service to our Lord, we salute you as the 2024 Faculty Member of the Year.
PRESIDENT’S SPECIAL RECOGNITION
2024 STAFF MEMBER OF THE YEAR
Brian Utter ’91
Executive Director, Olivet Media Group and associate professor
WHEN YOU TURN ON A microphone, you have six seconds to connect before the audience disengages,” says Brian Utter ’91, executive director of the Olivet Media Group, and associate professor in the Department of Communication. “So, make sure you always have something to say that matters.”
There is no discernable difference between career and calling for Brian, who graduated from Olivet with a degree in broadcast communications and marketing. He immediately pursued a master’s degree in missiology from Nazarene Theological Seminary, before working as an on-air radio personality for New Life Media. For the next 20 years, he worked for World Mission Broadcast before returning to Olivet in 2013 to serve as managing director of Shine.FM. A few years later, he was offered the opportunity to share his wealth of practical knowledge by teaching multimedia and broadcast classes to undergraduate students.
Shine.FM, which is why what we say matters so much. The audience has to trust you first before they’ll be receptive to listening to the Gospel.”
Such is the enduring relevance of Christian music broadcasting. The FM radio frequency at Olivet was started in 1967, and has continuously broadcast Christian music and uplifting programming ever since. Today, Shine.FM is still owned by Olivet, but the station is self-funded. Annual listener-supported fundraising campaigns and business impact partnerships make up the operating budget for a station that serves 1 million people each month in three regional areas through live radio broadcasts and on-demand streaming.
“I am a builder by nature, so I love teaching,” Brian notes. “Every fall I get new, raw material. Over the course of four years, I get to help students build themselves. It’s so great to celebrate who they become and what they do.”
Utilizing years of international experiences, Brian frequently leads students on global mission projects to encourage the development of local multimedia centers like podcast and production studios. But despite his range of technological expertise, broadcast radio remains his preferred form of media.
“When you don’t have visual elements, radio triggers the brain to create imaginative, emotionallystimulating visuals,” Brian explains. “That emotional connection is a huge part of the ministry of
In addition to Brian’s duties of managing the budget, facilitating a departmental culture which consistently leads the University in the Best Christian Workplace survey, and co-hosting “The Afternoon Adventure” on air, he leads a team of 12 employees and around 25 student workers. His goal as the station director is for his team to focus less on what they do and more on the why behind the content creation and distribution. In 2024, Olivet’s student-run radio station, Spark HD was awarded the University Station of the Year by Christian Music Broadcasters, validating the academic preparation that Brian and his colleagues provide.
“At Shine we’re all about a value system, and shared values create community,” he says. “People desire authenticity and transparency in the media today. Radio is just the platform we use to point people to Christ.”
Brian and his wife, Lynne, live in Bourbonnais. They are the parents of Jacob ’23 (Julianna) and Michael.
Brian, for your strategic leadership, communication excellence, investment in global ministry, and faithful service to our Lord, we salute you as the 2024 Staff Member of the Year.
SEPTEMBER 2023–AUGUST 2024
New Staff
Names listed are those that were hired to full-time positions since the last President’s Dinner.
Prince-Alex Ayo-Ola Department of Athletics, Football
Keith Beckham Department of Athletics, Football
Karli Byrd School of Business
Dalton Byrne Graduate and Continuing Studies
Emily Byrne Office of Admissions
Stephen Chase Department of Athletics, Men’s Soccer
Dillon Dahl Department of Athletics, Volleyball
Lance Delbridge Office of Development
Victoria Dokter Department of Public Safety
Tracy Doolin Office of Advising
Jenna Durbin Department of Athletics, Women’s Soccer
Justin Flowers Building Services
Amy Forbes Counseling and Health Services
Carolyn Forsythe Office of Student Development
Jon Forsythe Department of Athletics, Men’s Soccer
Derrick George Office of Admissions
Raquel Gonzalez Office of Marketing & Engagement
Mitchell Greer Department of Public Safety
Lauren Handson ROTC
Lauren Herlihy Department of Athletics, Softball
Nick Hermann Information Technology
Kassidy Hewett Shine.FM
Khalid Hill Office of Admissions
Mary Keswick Building Services
Mark Logan Department of Athletics, Swim
Jillian Long Office of Admissions
Carissa Lundmark School of Business
Nick Mansell President’s Office
Barb McKenzie Department of Accounting
Tyler McLean Office of Admissions
Trina Meyering Student Financial Services
Timmy Miller Media and Technical Support
Avante Mitchell Department of Athletics, Football
Caroline Mueller Office of Marketing & Engagement
Robert Murphy Department of Biology
Brian Porter Department of Athletics, Swim
Ron Prindle Facilities
Colton Punches Department of Athletics, Baseball
Lily Roberson Graduate and Continuing Studies
Grace Rose Office of Admissions
Mikaylee Ruff Office of Admissions
Lauren Rybolt Office of Admissions
Jeannie Schwartzkopf Building Services
Cameron Screeton Department of Athletics, Baseball
Justin Seiberlich Office of Advising
Jon Smith Advancement Services
Carla Strominger Advancement Services
Harley Taber Department of Athletics, Football
Jacki Tamez Office of Student Development
Heidi Taylor Department of Accounting
Chandler Tiarks Building Services
Michelle Tong Library
Aaron Wheeler Counseling and Health Services
Terrance Wilson Department of Athletics, Football
Alex Wolfe Office of Admissions
New Faculty
Tina Burton
Associate Professor, School of Business
B.A.S. in Management, Olivet Nazarene University, 2001
M.S. in Computer Information Systems, University of Phoenix, 2006
M.A. in Professional Counseling, Olivet Nazarene University, 2011
Joshua Johnson
Assistant Professor, Communication Department
B.A. in Interpersonal Communication/ Rhetoric, Biola University, 2019
M.A. in Interpersonal Communication, Purdue University, 2021
Ph.D. in Family Communication, Purdue University, 2025 (expected)
Parry Kietzman
Associate Professor, Biology Department
B.S. in Biology, Wheaton College, 2009
Ph.D. in Entomology, University of California at Riverside, 2015
Joseph Trendowski
Assistant Professor, School of Business
B.S. in Business Administration, Alfred University, 2004
M.B.A., Alfred University, 2005
Ph.D. in Strategic Management, Old Dominion University, 2012
Michael Watson
Associate Professor, School of Business
B.A. in Economics, Indiana University, 2010
Ph.D. in Economics, George Mason University, 2023
Jeffrey Williamson
Associate Professor, School of Business
B.A. in Communication, Olivet Nazarene University, 1984
M.A. in Communication, Ball State University, 1987
Ed.D. in Educational Leadership, University of Sarasota, Florida, 2002
YEARS OF SERVICE RECOGNITIONS
5 YEARS
Faculty
Dr. John Adams
Sonya Comer
Dr. Anne Figus
Freddie Franken
Queen Kisoso
Scott Ragan
Dr. Kyle Robinson
Dr. Nick Troendle Staff
Allison Borop
Mackenzie Brown
Emily Case
Justin Glenn
Vicki Gomez
Alicia Guertin
Andrew Harrison
Daneli Hentschel
Brittany Huddleston
Scot Kraemer
Lori Latham
Drew Leman
Ashley Luft
Carmen Lynn
Erika Moeschke
Kelly Murphy
Brianna Murray
Kevin Norden
Stephanie Reynolds
Kimberly Strickland
Adam Thiele
10 YEARS
Faculty
Dr. Paul Kenyon
Dr. Elyse Lamszus
Dr. Chad Maxson
Dr. Heather McLaughlin
Dr. Matthew Stratton
Susan Enfield Staff
Rochelle Brock
Andy Corbus
Kim Daugherty
Laura Knol
Bob Mitchell
Stacey Moore
15 YEARS
Faculty
Dr. Nancy Bonilla
Dr. Justin Brown
Dr. Jonathan Pickering
Lauren Glenn Staff
Drew Benson
Barb DeVore
Kathy Heck
20 YEARS Faculty
Dr. Charles Carrigan
Scott Dombroski
Dr. Kevin Lowery
Dr. Kevin Mellish Staff
Corey Bell
Trisha Campbell
June Hacker
Andrea Lawrence
Nick Lingo
Craig Manes
Tiffany McCann
25 YEARS Faculty
Rev. Bill Bahr Staff
Thane Moore
30 YEARS Faculty
Dr. Beth Patrick-Trippel Staff
Derek Ferris
Mike Mangino
Susan Wolff
35 YEARS Faculty
Dr. Dale Hathaway Staff
Rev. Woody Webb
45 YEARS Staff
Rev. John Mongerson
Zach Ackerman
Staff Recognitions
• Completed Olivet Nazarene University Leadership Institute, 2023.
Brittany Armstrong
• Completed Olivet Nazarene University Leadership Institute, 2023.
Nick Birkey
• IBCA NAIA Coach of the Year.
Jacki Blomquist
• Completed Olivet Nazarene University Leadership Institute.
Austin Brown
• Completed Olivet Nazarene University Leadership Institute, 2023.
Karli Byrd
• Launched new podcast for the Entrepreneurship Program in the McGraw School of Business, “The Creatuer Podcast.”
• Helped develop and unveil the new Crawford Studio on first floor of the Weber Center (incubateur for entrepreneurship students).
• Co-hosted the second annual Createur Conference and Pitch Competition.
Emily Case
• Earned degree, Master of Business Administration, Olivet Nazarene University, 2024.
April Clark
• Completed Olivet Nazarene University Leadership Institute, 2023.
Braxsten Cook
• Completed Olivet Nazarene University Leadership Institute, 2023.
Wayne DeBoer
• Achieved Veritus Scholar Certification in Mid-Level Fundraising through Veritus Group Academy, 2024.
Jill English
• Renewed CompTIA Security+ Certification, 2024.
• Worked with Dr. Jeff Rice and student leaders of WiCyS to provide a 7-week program at the 2nd Cyber Defense Institute in Spring 2024.
• “Police Officers’ Perceptions Regarding their Interactions with the Disabled in Kankakee County” published in ONU ELAIA journal. Faculty mentor, Dr. Shelly Stroud, 2024.
Sherry Kurtz
• Earned degree, Master of Business Administration, Olivet Nazarene University, 2024.
• SHRM Certified Professional.
Keri Langan
• Completed Olivet Nazarene University Leadership Institute, 2023.
Drew Leman
• Earned degree, Master of Arts in Religion, Olivet Nazarene University, 2024.
Mike Lingle
• Completed Olivet Nazarene University Leadership Institute, 2023.
Nick Lingo
• Completed Olivet Nazarene University Leadership Institute, 2023.
Teresa Mathews
• Completed Olivet Nazarene University Leadership Institute, 2023.
Erika Moeschke
• Achieved Veritus Scholar Certification in Mid-Level Fundraising through Veritus Group Academy, 2024.
Kelly Murphy
• Completed Olivet Nazarene University Leadership Institute, 2023.
Ann Nagi
• Achieved Veritus Scholar Certification in Mid-Level Fundraising through Veritus Group Academy, 2024.
Kyle Olney
• Received three FEMA Nonprofit Security Grants ($150,000 each) for the University to make security upgrades in Benner Library, Centennial Chapel, and Larsen.
Tonya Peterson
• Completed Olivet Nazarene University Leadership Institute, 2023.
Courtney Sauerbier
• Completed Olivet Nazarene University Leadership Institute, 2023.
Scott Smith
• Earned degree, Master of Business Administration, Olivet Nazarene University, 2024.
Zachary Tamez
• Ordained in the Church of the Nazarene, 2024.
• Presented at the Association for Christians in Student Development Conference, 2024.
Houston Thompson
• Professional Leadership:
– Co-chair - Grant Professionals, Church of the Nazarene Global Education. Global Ministry Center, Lenexa, Kansas.
• Professional Development:
– Developing an Online Course, Center for Online Learning and Innovation, Olivet Nazarene University, Bourbonnais, Illinois.
– Skills School - Generational Giving, Indianapolis District Church of the Nazarene, Indianapolis, Indiana.
• Community Service: – Lead five-week study on Generational Differences and the Church, Southwest Church of the Nazarene, Indianapolis, Indiana.
Brian Tiarks
• Completed Olivet Nazarene University Leadership Institute, 2023.
Brian Utter
• Attended the CMB University Conference in Nashville, Tennessee with multi-media students, November 10–12, 2023.
• Attended Radio Summit in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, January 10–13, 2024.
• Consultant with ANU Communications Department in Nairobi, Kenya. Guest lecturer in numerous classes and spoke in chapel, March 11–15, 2024.
• Panelist for the CMB Webinar, “The Next Generation of Broadcasters,” March 13, 2024.
• Lead facilitator for the “Designed to Communicate” conferences in Guatemala, El Salvador and Honduras, May 13–17, 2024.
• Attended the CMB Momentum Conference in Orlando, Florida. Spark HD student radio station on the CMB University Station of the Year award, May 29–June 1, 2024.
• Co-lead the Shalom Project Media team to Europe with the Eurasia Regional “Designed to Communicate” camp in The Netherlands and constructed a podcast studio at the regional office in Germany, July 3–14, 2024.
Lynne Utter
• Completed Olivet Nazarene University Leadership Institute, 2023.
Woody Webb
• Certificate earned, “Certificate in Fund Raising Management,” Indiana University Lilly School of Philanthropy.
• Completed requirements for recognition as a Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE).
Mindy Williamson
• Completed Olivet Nazarene University Leadership Institute, 2023.
John Adams
COLLEGE OF ARTS AND SCIENCES FOR 2023–2024
Faculty Recognitions
Recent Scholarship Grant Recipients
• Communityworks Grant from Community Foundation of Kankakee River Valley, for “Let’s Ketchup,” an initiative supporting area public school children. $7,500.
Daniel Allen
• Blessing Our Community Grant from Church of the Nazarene, USA/Canada Region, to research church and community relations. $3,000.
Charles Carrigan
• McGraw STEM Student Engagement Grant to organize the Earth & Space Sciences Program and travel to southern Indiana for the total solar eclipse in April 2024.
Willa Harper
• Mentored a student who received a Pence-Boyce fellowship for summer research.
Daniel Kender
• McGraw STEM Student Engagement Grant to help fund our Technology Praxis Outreach program.
Elizabeth Lamszus
• Samuel L. Mayhugh StudentFaculty Scholarship to fund eight students who attended the Sigma Tau Delta (English honors society) International Convention in St. Louis, Mo., April 2024. $2,800.
Jeremy Lyle
• Pi Mu Epsilon (mathematics honor society) problems grant.
Madeline Shepley
• McGraw STEM Student Engagement Grant for the April 2024 solar eclipse trip to southern Indiana.
Nicholas Troendle
• Hippenhammer Grant to conduct research on tropical bark beetle DNA metabarcoding.
Nicole Vander Schaaf
• McGraw Fellowship for project with Lucy Martinson on “HPV testing in Papua New Guinea.” $1,277.50.
• Hippenhammer Grant for “HPV Testing & Thermal-Ablation Treatment for Enhanced Control of Cervical Cancer at Nazarene General Hospital - Jiwaka.” $4,380.
• Pence-Boyce Research Fellowship for project with Lucy Martinson on “Screening for High-Risk HPV in Papua New Guinea and the Validation of a Low-Cost, High-Risk HPV Assay.” $1,340.
Kristian Veit
• Council for Christian Colleges and Universities (CCCU) Initiative Grant, working with a team that also includes Alison Young Reusser, Lisa Gassin, and Jonathan Case on a research project that asks, “Does grace to the undeserving have social costs?” $30,000.
• Lilly Endowment Grant, working with a team that also includes Leon Blanchette, Mark Frisius, Lisa Gassin, and Lance Kilpatrick that focuses on how families share their faith with their children and Christian parenting. $1M and $250K.
Michael Wade
• McGraw STEM Student Engagement grant for Aginno engineering senior design project. $900.
• Hippenhammer Grant for Aginno paddle wheel aerator. $650.
Scholarship Projects (Completed)
John Adams
• Article published: Martin, K., & Adams, J. (2023). “Investigating the Motivational Differences for Healthy Eating in Men and Women.” Journal of Applied Disciplines.
• Article published: Monterastelli, A. J., Adams, J., Eastman, C. I., & Crowley, S. J. (2024). “The forbidden zone for sleep is more robust in adolescents compared to adults.” Frontiers in Sleep.
Aram Agajanian
• Mentoring: “Tube ConveyorPeddinghaus” Senior Design project, which also entered in the NCEES national competition, May 2024.
Daniel Allen
• Article published: F. Carson Mencken, Kyra N. Neill, Jesse L. DeDeyne, Daniel M. Allen and Amanda C. McGowan. 2024. “Religiosity and Fear of Crime Victimization.” Sociological Focus.
• Report: Allen, Daniel M., Jessica Brown, Lilah Chavez, and Rebecca Christy. 2024. “Are We Blessing Our Communities? A Study Assessing Nazarene Church Involvement in Local Communities.” Report for the Church of the Nazarene, USA/ Canada Region.
• Presentation: Burtt, Jason J. & Daniel M. Allen. 2023. “A Fresh Look at Flourishing: A Case for Positive Sociology.” Annual meeting for the Society for the Scientific Study of Religion, Salt Lake City, Utah.
• Reviewer for Journal for the Scientific Study of Religion.
Jeffery Bell
• Composition: Original choral anthem for Orpheus Choir, performed on and off campus.
• Conducted: Co-conductor for ONU’s Handel’s MESSIAH.
• Conducted: choirs & orchestra for ONU’s Sounds of the Season.
• Clinician for Kankakee County student singers auditioning for ILMEA Chorus.
Mary Beth Koszut
• Completed a series of surreal/ fantastical artworks based on the ideas of turning metaphorical and literal spills into something beautiful. These mixed media drawings documented personal experiences of motherhood, displayed in Benner Library, fall 2023.
Nick Boros
• Presentation: “Reduce: Little to No-Cost Ways to Save Money and Be More Environmentally Friendly,” ONU Scholar Week, April 2024.
• Presentation: “Increased Healthspan from Exercise,” ONU Scholar Week, April 2024.
Wilfredo Canales
• Project: Sponsored by Council for Christian Colleges and Universities (CCCU). “Protest Music in Latin America: Intersection of Politics and Faith for Social Change,” April 2024.
• Book Review: “Misión, Economía y Desarrollo humano: Desafíos latinoamericanos avanzando el siglo 21” [Mission, Economy, and Human Development: Latin American Challenges in the 21st Century], in Journal of Latin American Theology, Vol. 19, 2024.
Charles Carrigan
• Project: “Aerial Mapping of the Swanberg Sanctuary Conservation Land using a small Unmanned Aircraft System and ground-based GPS,” research with senior Geography major Zach Hall.
Stephen Case
• Feature article: “John Herschel’s Reform of Science,” in Physics Today, June 2023. This article was then translated and published in the French magazine Pour la Science, April 2024.
Sonya Comer
• Performance: Faculty recital, fall semester 2023.
• Completed several graduate courses toward the DME degree (Doctor of Music Education).
Kelsie Davis
• Productions: Directed both “Alice in Wonderland,” fall 2023; and “Beauty and the Beast,” spring 2024.
• Supervised the student-directed Green Room Theatre Co. productions and events.
Freddie Franken
• Performance: Recording project with renowned French artist, Marielle LaRocca-Serra, Feb. 2024.
• Performance: International guest at a concert for a Jazz Appreciation Day in Aruba, April 2024.
• Clinic: Jazz guitar clinic, King Music, Bradley, Ill., April 2024.
Lisa Gassin
• Presentation: Gassin, E. A., Jacques, D., Case, J., Young Reusser, A., & Veit, K. M. “Fanning the flames of the dumpster fire: How people contribute to online conflict.” American Psychological Association Annual Convention, Washington, D.C., August 2023.
• Article: Young Reusser, A. I., Veit, K. M., Gassin, E. A., & Case, J. P. “Responding to online toxicity: Which strategies make others feel freer to contribute, believe that toxicity will decrease, and believe that justice has been restored?” Collabra: Psychology, 10(1), 2024.
• Presentation: Pickering, J., Frisius, M., & Gassin, E. A. “Program prioritization: Year two of a qualitative and quantitative approach,” Higher Learning Commission (HLC) Annual Meeting, Chicago, Ill., April 2024.
• Symposium participant: “Qualitative research in the study of online conflict: Findings and functions.” Symposium topic was Responding with Kindness to Toxicity Online, at the Association for Psychological Science Annual Convention, San Francisco, Calif., May 2024.
Willa Harper
• Mentored two students who presented research at ACCA (The Associated Colleges of the Chicago Area) student symposium, Lewis University, April 2024.
Andrew Hoag
• Presentation: the TYGR Student Art and Literary magazine, ONU Scholar Week, April 2024.
• Presentation: Roundtable discussion highlighting the English Department spring trip to the U.K., ONU Scholar Week, April 2024.
Matthew Jacklin
• Performance: RePercussions
Duo Recital with Illinois College Percussion Professor Tyler Carpenter in the Music under the Dome Series, Jacksonville, Ill.
CONTINUED
ARTS AND SCIENCES
Scholarship Projects (Completed)
• Performance: Multiple performances in the Sunport Serenades Concert Series, Albuquerque, N.M.
• Performances: numerous performances at ONU, including the Faculty Jazz performances in fall 2023 and spring 2024.
Paul Kenyon
• Performance: Solo Piano Recital of Scarlatti, Beethoven, and Sibelius, the Fine Arts series at Windsor Court Community, Carol Stream, Ill., Sept. 2023.
• Performance: Solo Piano Faculty Recital featuring the music of Scalatti, Beethoven, Chopin and Sibelius, ONU’s Kresge Auditorium, Sept. 2023.
• Performance: Concert of music by Franck, Rachmaninoff, Williams and Kern with violinist, Jessica Platt, at Memorial Presbyterian Church, St. Louis, Mo., Oct. 2023.
• Performance: Solo Piano Recital at Illinois Wesleyan, Bloomington, Ill., Nov. 2023.
• Presentation: “Improving Student Performance through Self-Recording,” at Illinois State Music Teachers Association Annual conference, Northern Illinois University, DeKalb, Ill., Nov. 2023.
Karen Knudson
• Presentation: “Narrative Direct Address and Poetic Word Pairings for Audience Appeal in The Middle English Metrical Paraphrase of the Old Testament,” at the International Congress on Medieval Studies (session sponsored by the Society for the Study of the Bible in the Middle Ages), Western Michigan University, May 2024.
• Presentation: roundtable discussion and presentation on, “Using Cultural Values Assignments to Integrate Medieval Literature into a General Education Literature
Course.” Same conference as above, May 2024.
Heather McLaughlin
• Presentation: “Great Creative Pedagogical Ideas for Theatre, Film and Multi-Media,” National Communication Association Convention. National Harbor, Md., Nov. 2023.
Scott Ragan
• Paper Accepted: “Determining Tornado Velocity for Tornado Force Coefficients for a Thin-Cylinder Structure and Comparison to ASCE 7,” the 10th Forensic Congress of the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE). Seattle, Wash., Nov. 2024.
Jeff Rice
• Presentation: “I’m not your podiatrist: But let me tell you about your Achilles heel,” 2023 Everyday Cyber Conference, Bourbonnais, Ill., Oct. 2023.
Kyle Robinson
• Project: Prepared a public history exhibit of 300 pieces of Victorian British ceramics related to John Wesley and the British Methodist movement, archived at Olivet.
• Presentation: “Word and Image: Exhibiting the Holiness Legacy of Adam Clarke,” ONU Scholar Week, April 2024. The related display can be seen in Olivet’s Holiness Reading Room through spring 2025.
Beth Schurman
• Presentation: “Crafting an Institutional Response to Artificial Intelligence” HLC co-presenter, April 2024.
Jon Seals
• Exhibition: “Transitions and Transformations.” Curated by Carmen Flores, Catapult Gallery,
Richmond, Texas, 2023.
• Exhibition: “Voices of the Midwest,” Fine Line Creative Arts Center, St. Charles, Ill., May–June 2024.
• Presentation: Speaker at ONU Sculpture Dedication, “Credential and Calling.” Olivet Nazarene University, Oct. 2023.
• Article: “The Artistic Journey: Nurturing Creativity as an Artist and Mentor.” Olivet The Magazine, Parent Guide, summer 2023.
Dan Sharda
• Mentored honors student Abigail Lynn and her project entitled: “The neuroprotective effects of anthocyanins against oxidative stress in SH-SY5Y cells.”
Madeline Shepley
• Master’s Thesis: “Investigating the Effects of Planetarium Experiences on Introductory College Astronomy Classes.”
Matthew Stratton
• Performance: Faculty Recital, duet with Matt Jacklin, fall 2023.
• Performance: Directed the Marching Band at five football games, fall 2023.
• Performances: numerous other performances at ONU.
Kristian Veit
• Article: Young Reusser, A. I., Veit, K. M., Gassin, E. A., & Case, J. P. “Responding to online toxicity: Which strategies make others feel freer to contribute, believe that toxicity will decrease, and believe that justice has been restored?” Collabra: Psychology, 10(1), 2024.
• Presentation: Young Reusser, A. I., Veit, K. M., Gassin, E. A., & Case, J. P. “Countering online toxicity with benevolence: Findings from Reddit, interviews, experiments.” Paper presented at the Association for Psychological Science Annual
Convention, San Francisco, Calif., 2024.
• Mentored two students who presented at the 2024. Midwest Psychological Association’s Annual Meeting.
• Mentored three students who presented at ONU’s Scholar’s Week, April 2024.
Aggie Veld
• Presentation: with four students at the National Science Teacher Association National Conference, Denver, Colo., March 2024.
Michael Wade
• Article: Hongwan Li, Chenyang Bi, Atila Novoselac, Kerry A. Kinney,
Richard L. Corsi, Michael Wade, Ying Xu, “Semivolatile organic compounds in U.S. high schools: Concentrations and associations with building characteristics and seasonal variations,” Building and Environment, Volume 254, 2024.
• Mentored senior design project for an Aginno Mission Project, finalizing the design on a mechanical aerator.
Neal Woodruff
• Performance: Tenor soloist with the KVSO, 4th of July concert.
• Performance: School of Music Faculty recital soloist.
• Performances: numerous other performances at ONU and in the
wider community.
• Clinician for the Bishop Mac musical cast.
• Conductor: Olivet’s Homecoming, MESSIAH, Sounds of the Season, Beauty & the Beast, and Commencement Concert.
• Presentation: roundtable discussion for Christian College Music Executives, at the annual meeting of the National Association of Schools of Music.
• Presentation: “Basics of the Voice: Developing Voice in Ensembles,” at the Illinois Music Educators Conference.
• Adjudicator for the National NATS competition and for the NATS Central region competition.
Advanced Degrees Earned
Lucas Henderson, Ph.D., Analytical Chemistry, Indiana University, Bloomington, Ind., summer 2023. Wilfredo Canales, Ph.D., Latin American Studies, Universidad Católica del Maule, Chile, summer 2024.
Madeline Shepley, M.S., Physics, Ball State University, Muncie, Ind., summer 2023.
Professional Leadership
John Adams
• Let’s Ketchup (Local school initiative), board member
• Topics in Spinal Cord Rehabilitation, statistical editor
Aram Agajanian
• IEEE Student, faculty advisor.
Mary Beth Koszut
• Fall Art Symposium, organizer and director.
Justin Brown
• ACCA (The Associated Colleges of the Chicago Area), mathematics division chair
• Reviewed an article for “Mathematical Reviews.”
Wilfredo Canales
• Serves as editor for Synergy Ministries, a Spanish-English translation and publishing service for evangelical churches in the
United States and Canada.
• Church of the Nazarene, international projects with Hispanic populations in the USA-Canada region.
• Kankakee First Church of the Nazarene, Associate Pastor for Hispanic Ministries.
• Olivet’s Master of Ministry program in Hispanic Ministry, School of Theology and Christian Ministry, coordinator.
• Nazarene Theological Seminary, Kansas City, Mo., collaborator and as visiting professor.
Stephen Case
• Christian Higher Education, editorial board member and editor for faith integration (science).
• Dissertation committee member for Buddy Stark, an Olivet alumnus completing his Ph.D. in science education at Western Michigan University.
Sonya Comer
• Kankakee Valley Music Teachers Association, president.
• Organizer for Monster Concert hosted at Olivet in partnership with King Music, featuring over 80 students and several local music professionals.
Freddie Franken
• Leads and performs in a local jazz group, FFG (Freddie Franken Group), and a commercial rock band called, Full Throttle.
David Hoekman
• Ground beetle Technical Working Group (TWG) for the National Ecological Observatory, chair.
• Au Sable Institute of Environmental Studies, member of the Academic Programs Committee.
• Au Sable Institute of Environmental Studies, taught a
COLLEGE OF ARTS AND SCIENCES
three-week Insect Ecology class, May–June.
• Wheaton College Science Station in the Black Hills, South Dakota, taught a four-week Field Ecology class, June–July.
David Johnson
• Tau Theta, the local chapter of the international English honor society Sigma Tau Delta, serves as sponsor and oversees finances.
Paul Kenyon
• Curated, directed, and performed the “Music at College Church Concert Series,” presenting five programs of both solo and collaborative works with ONU colleagues and guest artists.
Elizabeth Lamszus
• External reader and reviewer for the English department at Trinity Christian College, summer 2023 and April 2024.
Karen Leonard
• Serves as a reviewer for the Modern Language Journal.
Professional Leadership
Jeremy Lyle
• Referee for Discrete Applied Mathematics project, entitled: “Bound for the $k$-Fault Tolerant Power Domination Number.”
• External reader for an honors project at Oklahoma Baptist University, entitled: “Dynamics within the torus and the Klein bottle.”
Heather McLaughlin
• Los Angeles Film Studies Center, board member and primary consultant.
Scott Ragan
• Olivet’s ASCE student group, faculty sponsor and mentor.
Jon Seals
• Art Galleries Director for multiple exhibits in multiple venues across Olivet’s campus.
• The Victorian House Gallery, the primary curator of exhibits that included four off-campus guest artists this year.
Dan Sharda
• American Association of
Immunologists pedagogy group, working to champion advance pedagogy in this specialized field.
Matthew Stratton
• Cavaliers Drum and Bugle Corps, brass consultant.
Nicole Vander Schaaf
• The Biophilic (Biology) club, faculty co-advisor.
• Co-leader of the summer 2024 Papua New Guinea missions trip with six Olivet students.
Kristian Veit
• APA (American Psychological Association), committee member of its Society for IndustrialOrganizational Psychology (SIOP) with responsibilities for reviewing submissions and planning a portion of the APA Annual Convention.
Aggie Veld
• Board member of His Most Excellent Way, an organization formed to meet the needs of the marginalized in Pembroke and Hopkins Park.
Community Engagement and Recognition
John Adams
• Co-founder and board member of “Let’s Ketchup,” a nonprofit that addresses childhood food scarcity and lack of resources in Kankakee County schools.
Aram Agajanian
• Supports the Armenian Apostolic Church ministry and its community.
• Serves as a knight of the Knights of Vartan (KOV) organization which provides student scholarships and responds to various needs within the Armenian community.
• Assists the Armenian Mekhitaryan Catholic High School organization that supports hospitals, schools, nursing homes, and provides scholarships for advanced studies.
Daniel Allen
• Volunteers in the Children’s Ministry program, College Church of the Nazarene, Bourbonnais, Ill.
Jeffery Bell
• Part-time staff member (music), College Church of the Nazarene, Bourbonnais, Ill.
• Weekly volunteer at Center of Hope food pantry, Kankakee, Ill.
• Provided two concerts (singing and piano) at Westwood Oaks Retirement Living Center, Kankakee, Ill.
Mary Beth Koszut
• Volunteer service hours at St. Paul’s Lutheran School, Bourbonnais, Ill., for a variety of events.
• Served as judge for the Celebrate Life Student Art Exhibition, ONU, May 2024.
Nancy Bonilla
• Volunteer Kindergarten teacher during worship service, College Church of the Nazarene, Bourbonnais, Ill.
• Organized senior night for BBCHS cross-country team.
Nick Boros
• Leads the “Garden Ministry” at the Manteno Church of the Nazarene, providing produce to local food pantries and soup kitchens in Manteno, Bradley and Kankakee.
Justin Brown
• Contributes regular hours toward the Manteno Church of the Nazarene garden ministry, growing vegetables for several local food pantries.
Charles Carrigan
• Serves as Secretary of the Board, College Church of the Nazarene, Bourbonnais, Ill.
• Provided leadership for the Kankakee River clean-up day.
Stephen Case
• Appointed commissioner to city of Kankakee’s planning board.
• Serves on the “mission and planning” strategic group for Wright in Kankakee’s Museum Alliance Program’s self-assessment.
Sonya Comer
• Plays piano/keyboard, GatheringPoint Church of the Nazarene, Bourbonnais, Ill.
• Facilitated Achievement in Music Testing for local piano teachers and students.
Kelsie Davis
• Choreographed “Cinderella” for Acting Out Theatre Co. production, summer 2023.
• Assisted with Acting Out Theatre Co. dance auditions and other community performances.
Freddie Franken
• Participates in local church worship band.
• Offers free guitar lessons to various community individuals.
Lori Fulton
• Organized a thank-you-note writing campaign for a Vietnam Veteran for the Honor Flight Chicago Organization.
Lisa Gassin
• Teaches teen Sunday School class at local church.
• Co-led a grief workshop (with Rachel Guimond) for staff at Momence High School after a student died.
Dan Green
• Participated in multiple local high school math competitions, writing questions and coordinating judges.
Willa Harper
• Works with a group of Catholic sisters, serving on the affiliate board and the affiliate retreat planning committee. Will be presenting at the fall retreat.
Dale Hathaway
• Completed the Michigan Titanium Half-Iron Man Triathlon in Grand Rapids, August 2023, raising money for clean water for World Vision.
Bruce Heyen
• Participant in Kankakee Valley Community Theater for two productions: vocal director for “Little Shop of Horrors,” fall 2023; and role as Mr. Mayor in “Seussical,” spring 2024.
Ryan Himes
• Presentation to the Manteno Rotary Club on solar energy and Olivet’s solar arrays.
• Presentation to Shabbona Elementary School second grade classroom on science and human health.
• Chaperone for the Church of the Nazarene Chicago Central District SuperStart Youth Conference.
• Led an Earth Day trash cleanup with Kankakee Public Library.
• Served as a board member, musician, and children’s church volunteer at Manteno Church of the Nazarene.
Andrew Hoag
• Participated in GatheringPoint
Church meal-packing service project.
• Volunteered as a “buddy” for GatheringPoint’s Night to Shine event for disabled individuals in Kankakee County, Feb. 2024.
David Hoekman
• Participated in the Kankakee River clean-up day.
• Volunteers at Asbury United Methodist Church, including service on the Small Groups team, as a liturgist during worship services, and helping with meals to community people.
David Johnson
• Volunteer coach for kids quizzing, Kankakee First Church of the Nazarene.
• Camp counselor, Chicago Central District kids camp, summer 2023.
• Serves on the church board, Kankakee First Church of the Nazarene.
• Volunteers at the local Pregnancy Resource Center, Kankakee, Ill.
Marvin Jones
• Taught two worship workshops this past year: (1) Celebrate Life (It’s Easy to Get it Right: Getting the Right Key for Congregational Singing) and (2) NWIL Team Day (What Worship Leaders Wished Their Pastors Knew).
Daniel Kender
• Participates in a local church program, called Motivating Minds, designed to offer free tutoring for students in several subjects.
Paul Kenyon
• Provided music and spoke at Illinois District Prime Time Day, Oct. 2023.
• Accompanied the High School Choir for the Association of Christian Schools International music festival hosted by ONU, May 2024.
• Arranged six performances with students and colleagues at Westwood Oaks Senior Living, Kankakee, Ill.
COLLEGE OF ARTS AND SCIENCES
Community Engagement and Recognition
Elizabeth Lamszus (Elyse)
• Serve as an usher and in the nursery at my local church.
• Joined Team World Vision in March 2024, anticipating running in the Chicago Marathon in October to raise funds for clean water.
Seok Lew
• Supports a Chicago-based homeless ministry, HOPAN (House of Prayer for All Nations), helping the ministry establish future goals.
Jeremy Lyle
• Served as judge for regional and state math competitions: at Beecher High School, at Grace Christian, and for the state ICTM (Illinois Council of Teachers of Mathematics) competition.
• Volunteers for the Manteno Church of the Nazarene garden ministry, growing vegetables for several local food pantries.
Heather McLaughlin
• River Valley Christian Fellowship, children’s ministry and media ministry volunteer.
• Smoothie business (with husband) for local schools and farmer’s market.
Kent Olney
• Speaker at Family Strong Night, Bradley Community Schools, January 2024.
• Speaker at Westside Church of the Nazarene, Indianapolis, May 2024.
Scott Ragan
• Faculty mentor for a senior design project to improve the Nazarene Campground, Logan, Ohio.
Darl Rassi
• Leading a group of curriculum writers for the Apostolic Christian Church to write Sunday school, with a target release date of December 2025.
Jeff Rice
• Serves as reviewer for LACCEI (Latin
American and Caribbean Consortium of Engineering Institutions).
• Serves as member of the KCC IT Program Advisory Committee.
• Serves on the Deacon Board, Grace Baptist Church.
• Supports the Philippines school computer praxis project.
Kyle Robinson
• Serves as Vice President of the Kankakee County Historical Society.
• Serves as Board Member of the Kankakee County Museum.
Beth Schurman
• Serves on the education committee at Kankakee Trinity Academy.
Jon Seals
• Adjudicated the visual art submissions for Nazarene Regional Celebrate Life, hosted by Olivet, May 2024.
Dan Sharda
• Participated in several clean up outings at Olivet’s Swanberg Biological Sanctuary.
• Volunteers for the Manteno Church of the Nazarene garden ministry, growing vegetables for several local food pantries.
• Volunteered for numerous field trips and other community/school events with his children.
Madeline Shepley
• Served as moderator for the Inkwells and Anvils writing group on Discord.
• Work with a local church deacon on serving the parish’s young adult group.
Matthew Stratton
• Leads annual community service events for the marching band, one in fall and one in spring.
Nicholas Troendle
• Serves on the Kankakee River Basin Commission as ONU’s representative.
• Provides outreach events through the Olivet Animal Outreach program,
teaching community members about reptiles and amphibians.
• Hosted the 5th Annual Olivet Animal Extravaganza, April 2024.
David Van Heemst
• Oversees student internships in a variety of community and national organizations and political offices.
Nicole Vander Schaaf
• Volunteers at Community Cup Church of the Nazarene where roles include: work with the “Youngest Worshippers” ministry, participation on the Worship Arts team, directing the Hospitality program, and serving as NMI president.
• Completed role as a therapeutic mentor for a foster teen through Hephzibah Children’s Association.
Kristian Veit
• Serves as an external evaluator for a Federal Drug Court Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) Grant, for Kankakee County.
• Serves as statistical consultant for Manteno Church of the Nazarene.
• Serves as methodological/statistical consultant and researcher-inresidence for PlasticityBoom, LLC.
Aggie Veld
• Participates in “His Most Excellent Way” ministry.
Michael Wade
• Mentors a local high school student.
Neal Woodruff
• Preached at the 50th anniversary service of Zoar Community Church, Reddick, Ill.
• Led a musical workshop at Bishop McNamara H.S., Kankakee, Ill.
• Served as commencement vocalist, Bishop McNamara H.S., Kankakee.
• Active in ministry at River Valley Christian Fellowship: preaching, teaching Sunday school, mentoring new members, and serving on the tech team.
FOR 2023–2024
Faculty Recognitions
COLLEGE OF PROFESSIONAL STUDIES
Lynda Allen
Recent Scholarship Grant Recipients
• Grants from the Sodexo Foundation and the Food Recovery Network for Enactus’ work with food recovery.
Amanda Chorak
• With the School of Education, received additional ECACE Grant funds for Child Development and Early Childhood programs for 2022–2024.
Laurie Hofman
• With Kathi Meleskie-Lippert, received Hippenhammer Faculty Scholarship grant funds to conduct research surveying online adjunct faculty.
Lance Kilpatrick
• Received Early Childhood Access Consortium for Equity (ECACE) Grant (2022–2024).
• With the School of Theology & Christian Ministry, received Lilly Endowment Grant for the Faith and Family project.
• With the School of Theology & Chrisian Ministry, received Lilly Endowment Grant for Nurturing Children Through Worship and Prayer.
• USDA Technology for Rural Communities Grant.
Kathi Meleskie-Lippert
• With Laurie Hofman, received Hippenhammer Faculty Scholarship grant funds to conduct research surveying online adjunct faculty.
Glen Rewerts
• The Business/Economic Fund.
• McGraw School of Business Fund.
• Student Investment Fund.
• Weber Leadership Fund.
Dawn Schwarzkopf
• Recipient of the PNC Grow Up Great Grant for $25,000.
• With the School of Education, received additional ECACE Grant funds for Child Development and Early Childhood programs for 2022–2024.
Shelly Stroud
• Recipient of $15,000 grant from Norfolk Southern to purchase a Virtual Reality System that allows students and community first responders to be trained in emergency scenarios.
Scholarship Projects (Completed)
Matt Adamson
• Completed dissertation: Reforms and Illinois Police Officers Perceptions: A Multiple Regression Analysis.
• Scholar Week Presentation: Reforms and Illinois Police Officers Perceptions: A Multiple Regression Analysis.
Kelly Brown
• Helped plan the Illinois Association of Colleges of Teacher Education Conferences (fall 2023 and spring 2024).
• Submitted two-weeks of devotions to The Foundry for publication summer of 2024.
Amanda Chorak
• Scholar Week Presentation: Co-Hosted Child Development Career Spotlight & Alumni Network Panel Presentation.
• Collaborated with Project Sun of Kankakee County to develop and implement Play to Connect: A Parent Education Curriculum.
Hillary Cole
• Completed and submitted Social Work Program Self-Study to the Council on Social Work Education for accreditation program review.
• Served as Primary Contact for the social work program’s CSWE
Re-affirmation of accreditation.
• Guest Lecturer at the University of Kentucky’s Doctor of Social Work Program.
• Co-presented with Lisa Gassin at the Honor’s Symposium: Can AI Be Used for Improving Mental Health?
Amy Flynn
• Facilitated Imago Dei Seminar: How Do We Interact with People with Disabilities? where students learned about models of disability and how perceptions shape interactions with disabled individuals.
Pam Greenlee
COLLEGE OF PROFESSIONAL STUDIES
___
Scholarship Projects (Completed)
• Article accepted for publication in December 2024: Johnston, A.S., Hathaway, D. K., Hugo, A., Marcukaitis, M. W., & Greenlee, P. S. (2024). Strategies for retaining Generation Z student employees. The Christian Librarian, 67(1).
• Reviewed: Greenlee, P. (2023). [Review of the book Bear knight, by J. R. Hannibal]. The Christian Librarian, 66 (1), 8.
• Reviewed: Greenlee, P. (2022).
[Review of the book The prince and the prodigal, by J. E. Smith].
The Christian Librarian, 65(1), 25.
David Hathaway
• Article accepted for publication in December 2024: Johnston, A.S., Hathaway, D. K., Hugo, A., Marcukaitis, M. W., & Greenlee, P. S. (2024). Strategies for retaining Generation Z student employees. The Christian Librarian, 67(1).
Laurie Hofman
• Perceptions of University Culture and Community among Online Adjuncts submitted to Christian Higher Education and accepted for publication pending copy-edit review.
• Scholar Week Presentation: Perceptions of University Culture and Community among Online Adjuncts.
Ann Hugo
• Article accepted for publication in December 2024: Johnston, A.S., Hathaway, D. K., Hugo, A., Marcukaitis, M. W., & Greenlee, P. S. (2024). Strategies for retaining Generation Z student employees.
The Christian Librarian, 67(1).
Ann Johnston
• Article accepted for publication in December 2024: Johnston, A.S., Hathaway, D. K., Hugo, A., Marcukaitis, M. W., & Greenlee,
P. S. (2024). Strategies for retaining Generation Z student employees. The Christian Librarian, 67(1).
April Kamba
• Completed dissertation: Effects of a 12-week Guided Exercise Program in Adults with Intellectual Disabilities.
• Scholar Week Presentation: Effects of a 12-week Guided Exercise Program in Adults with Intellectual Disabilities.
Lance Kilpatrick
• Administration of the ECACE project and grant.
• Completed Parts I and II of the Title II Federal Education Report for United States Department of Education.
• Completed the Illinois Annual Program Report for the Illinois State Board of Education.
• Completed the 2023–2024 ECACE Program Reports.
• Completed the 2023–2024 ECACE Periodic Financial Report.
• Completed a portion of the Lilly Endowment Grant Proposal for the Center of Faith and Family: Nurturing Children Through Worship and Prayer.
• Completed a portion of the Lilly Endowment Grant Proposal for the Center of Faith and Family: Outcomes, Indicators, and Scope and Sequence for the Nurturing Children Through Worship and Prayer Initiative.
• Scholar Week Presentation with Josh Riley, Beth Schurman and Regan Hayes: General Studies Capstone Project Presentation.
Paul Koch
• Scholar Week Presentation: The Big Bills Are Still There: What Stands Between Credentials and Calling?
Kimberly Lynch
• Lynch K (2023). Obesity in
adults: Pharmacologic options for successful management. American Nurse Journal, 18(9), 06-12.
• Peer Reviewer: The Nurse Practitioner: Osteoporosis Management in Primary Care, Manuscript Number NURSEPRACT-D-23-00047.
Matt Marcukaitis
• Article accepted for publication in December 2024: Johnston, A.S., Hathaway, D. K., Hugo, A., Marcukaitis, M. W., & Greenlee, P. S. (2024). Strategies for retaining Generation Z student employees. The Christian Librarian, 67(1).
• Leddin-McMaster, T. (2024, May 25). 25,000 issues and counting: Kankakee Library, Olivet Digitizing Daily Journal Archives. T he Daily Journal.
Kristin Mathews
• International Education Week Presentation: Importance of Building Community with International Students.
• Scholar Week Presentation: Culturally Responsive Teaching as a Missional Framework.
• Spring Golden Apple Scholars: Led Discussions on the Importance of Addressing Bias when Engaging with Diverse Student Populations.
• Golden Apple Summer Institute Presentation: Culture, Bias, and Positionality in Teaching.
Kathi Meleskie-Lippert
• Presentation for Scholar Week: Perceptions of University Culture and Community Among Online Adjuncts.
• Illinois State Board of Education 2024 Comprehensive Literacy Plan Roundtable Discussion Participant.
Mary Nehls
• Scholar Week Presentation with DeAnna VanKuren and Shelly Stroud: Interdisciplinary Collaborative
Teaching/Learning Session for Criminology and Nursing: Working on Disaster Management and Planning with Nursing and Criminal Justice Students.
• Completed six-week course: My Piece of the Puzzle: Creating Steppingstones Towards Racial Healing in Kankakee County.
• Completed Sim to Grow Super User Training for Simulation Lab Medication Cart.
• Scholar Week Presentation with Brooke Piper and DeAnna VanKuren: Can Exam Anxiety Be Reduced Through Targeting Nursing Students Learning Styles? (Part 2).
• Presentation for Kankakee County Teen Conference with DeAnna VanKuren and Brooke Piper: Sense of Self.
Tonya Peterson
• National Academic Advising Association Scholarly Paper Presentation: Advising as a Tool for Social Justice for Students with Disabilities.
Suzanne Phipps
• The Illinois APRN Preceptor Tax Credit Initiative documents were created by our students and assisted in the development of two bills. In collaboration with the Illinois Society of Advanced Practice Nursing (ISAPN), Olivet MSN/ FNP students and students from Illinois State, Rush, University of Illinois at Chicago, Southern Illinois, and St. Xavier helped create SB2707 and HB2374.
Brooke Piper
• Scholar Week Presentation with Mary Nehls and DeAnna VanKuren: Can Exam Anxiety Be Reduced Through Targeting Nursing Students Learning Styles? (Part 2).
• Presentation for Kankakee County Teen Conference with Mary Nehls and DeAnna VanKuren: Sense of Self.
Amber Residori
• Jump Start Presentation: The Importance of a Liberal
Arts Education.
• Training for Municipal Bank Leadership Team: Benefits of Leading.
• Presentation for Olivet’s Leadership Institute: The Importance of Relational Leadership
• Training for Municipal Bank Leadership Team: Conflict Management & Effective Communication.
• Presentation for Olivet Orientation: Welcome to Our Family: Ready, Set, Go.
• Presentation for The North American Association of Christians in Social Work: Online Video Presentation offered nationally online, Ethics and the Office: Swimming in Deep Waters.
Josh Riley
• Plenary Presentation: AI Implications in Higher Education.
• Co-hosted with Kevin Mellish a Plenary break session: Philosophical and Ethical Concerns of AI.
• Hosted AI Webinar series with Kevin Mellish and Scott Dombrowski: Philosophical and Ethical Concerns of AI.
• Plenary Presentation: AI Student Survey Results and Next Steps.
• Presented with Brandon Arbuckle at the Honors Symposium: Can You Create a Mind?
Yvette Rose
• NAACP of Kankakee County in Partnership with KCCSI Health Seminar and Food Presentation: Rethink Your Drink.
• International Network for Doctoral Education in Nursing, Inc. Annual Conference Presentation: Barbershop Talk: Grief and Bereavement in Black Fathers After the Loss of a Spouse/Partner.
• International Families and Fathers Conference Presentation: Barbershop Talk: Grief and Bereavement in Black Fathers After the Loss of a Spouse/Partner.
Lauren Rouse
• Completed capstone project: Proposal for Addressing Instances of Mental Health Disorders in Higher
Education Institutions: The Campus Stakeholder Model.
Dawn Schwarzkopf
• Scholar Week Presentation: Hosted a teacher panel, principal panel, and student-teacher panel.
• Hosted eight-week, fall and spring semester PNC Parent-Child Interactive Workshops.
Shelly Stroud
• Reviewed, critiqued, and evaluated the Veteran’s Treatment Court of the 21st Judicial Circuit to assist in their six-year recertification process.
• Scholar Week Presentation with student Riley Kaufman: Effectiveness of Canines in Law Enforcement.
• Scholar Week Presentation with Mary Nehls and DeAnna VanKuren: Interdisciplinary Collaborative Teaching/Learning Session for Criminology and Nursing: Working on Disaster Management and Planning with Nursing and Criminal Justice Students.
Brad Thomas
• Received Microsoft 2023 Outstanding Educator in Illinois designation.
• Became Microsoft Excel 365 Associate Certified.
• Became Microsoft Excel 365 Expert Certified.
DeAnna VanKuren
• Scholar Week Presentation with Mary Nehls and Shelly Stroud: Interdisciplinary Collaborative Teaching/Learning Session for Criminology and Nursing: Working on Disaster Management and Planning with Nursing and Criminal Justice Students.
• Scholar Week Presentation with Mary Nehls and Brooke Piper: Can Exam Anxiety Be Reduced Through Targeting Nursing Students Learning Styles? (Part 2).
• Presentation for Kankakee County Teen Conference with Mary Nehls and Brooke Piper: Sense of Self.
• Diakonia Social Work Advancement Training Presentation: Sense of Self.
Matt Adamson
COLLEGE OF PROFESSIONAL STUDIES
• Advisory Board for the Kankakee Community College Law Enforcement Program.
• Eastern Illinois Law Enforcement Association Board Member.
• Conviction Integrity Unit for Kankakee County at the request of the States Attorney.
• Proctored the wrote test for new recruit hiring for the Kankakee Police Department.
• Rewrote the Detective Test for the Kankakee Police Department.
Kelly Brown
• Treasurer for Illinois Association of Colleges of Teacher Education.
• Olivet’s Ed.D. Director.
Amanda Chorak
• ECACE Scholarship & Grant Program Development Team Member.
• Child Development Program Coordinator.
• In collaboration with Deb Kimberlin, co-chair of the Kappa Omnicron Nu National Honor Society for Human Services local Olivet Chapter, Kappa Delta Rho.
Hillary Cole
• Association of Baccalaureate Social Work Program Directors Nominations Committee.
Susie Enfield
• Sigma International Discussion Board Facilitator.
• Sigma International Nurse Leader Review Board Member.
John Fightmaster
• Academic Liaison for Athletics.
• Faculty Athletic Representative.
___
Professional Leadership
Anne Figus
• SUFACS Club Advisor.
• ASID Student Chapter Advisor.
Tiffany Greer
• Secretary for the Illinois Association of Colleges of Nursing.
• Worked with Illinois American Nurses Association on an Education Project to review a new bill that became law and a part of the Nurse Practice Act that pertains to Education.
Rachel Guimond
• RISE Program Director.
• With Lisa Gassin, offered presentation on Self-Care and Indirect Trauma following student death at Momence School District.
Lance Kilpatrick
• Director of the ECACE Project.
• Co-Director of the Teacher Education Program with Tonya Peterson.
• Chair, EPP Committee.
Deb Kimberlin
• Kappa Delta Rho Faculty Adviser.
Kimberly Lynch
• Governance Committee Member-Kappa Sigma.
Tricia Mills
• General Tax Consultation to the community.
Mary Nehls
• Uplifted Care Board Member.
Doug Neilson
• Oversee School of Business Investment Club.
Tonya Peterson
• Director of Academic Advising.
Suzanne Phipps
• Program Director Special Interest Group, National Organization of Nurse Practitioner Faculties (NONPF).
• National Association of Family Nurse Practitioners (NAFNP) Founding Member.
• National Association of Family Nurse Practitioners (NAFNP) Co-chair, Awards and Recognition Committee.
Brooke Piper
• Leadership Succession Committee Member - Kappa Sigma.
Amber Residori
• Provide weekly License Clinical Social Work (LCSW) supervision to a local social worker and Olivet alumni.
• Offer ongoing mentorship and consulting to community leaders from various organizations.
Yvette Rose
• Nursing Diversity and Inclusion Chairperson.
• Mu Zeta Sigma Alumnae Chapter, Sigma Gamma Rho Incorporated Vice President.
Dawn Schwarzkopf
• Director of the Early Childhood Education program.
• Chapter Counselor for the Nu Beta Chapter of Kappa Delta Pi Educational Honor Society.
Karen Smith
• Lead Selah: Olivet’s Nurses Christian Fellowship.
Advanced Degrees Earned and Professional Development
Matt Adamson, Ph.D. in Criminal Justice from Capella University.
Tiffany Greer, District Minister’s License.
Ann Johnston, Mental Health First Aid Certification.
April Kamba, Ph.D. in Leadership: Health and Human Performance from Concordia University Chicago.
Todd Reid, Ed.D. in Global Sport Leadership from East Tennessee State University.
Lauren Rouse, Master’s degree in Health & Wellness Education from the American College of Education.
Community Engagement and Recognitions
Matt Adamson
• Lead the Missions Committee at Calvary Bible Church.
• Lead the Men’s Ministry at Calvary Bible Church.
Jacki Blomquist
• Volunteer with Feed My Starving Children.
• Religious Education teacher.
Kelly Brown
• Provide pet therapy services with dog, Riley, at a local nursing home and schools.
Amanda Chorak
• United Way Success by Six Steering Committee & Coalition Member.
• United Way Strong Neighborhood House Program.
• Healthy Families of Illinois Advisory Board.
• Theraplay County Planning Committee.
• Outcome Measures Subcommittee Member for Living Alternatives [Pregnancy Resource Center(PRC)] and ONU Child Development Initiative.
• Kiwanis Member.
• Kankakee School District 111 Early Childhood Education Policy Council Member.
• Birth to Five Action Council Member.
April Clark
• Volunteer at Night to Shine event.
• Power of the Purse volunteer.
Hillary Cole
• Volunteer at Bishop McNamara Catholic School.
• Life Story Project conducted with social work students in partnership with older adults at Riverside’s Senior Life Communities in Bourbonnais and Kankakee.
Cathy Dillinger
• Medical Team Lead at A Night to Shine event.
• Power of the Purse volunteer.
John Fightmaster
• Volunteer with the senior high youth group and media team at GatheringPoint Church.
• Volunteer with the BBCHS baseball program by holding multiple camp days throughout the summer/fall to help their athletes.
Anne Figus
• Vice-Chairperson of the Board of Directors for Maternity BVM Credit Union.
• Led interior design students who created blankets for Sleep in Heavenly Peace.
• Created after-labor care packages for new moms at the Pregnancy Resource Center.
• Created book bags with school supplies for children in Kankakee County who are in need.
Amy Flynn
• Worship Leader Lemont First Nazarene Church.
• Hope and Friendship Foundation volunteer.
• Abide in Me volunteer.
Tiffany Greer
• Member of the Project SUN Advisory Board.
• Kankakee County MAPP Steering Committee Member.
• Kankakee County Teen Conference Planning Committee Member.
• Youth Director at Highland Church of the Nazarene.
• Member of the District NYI Council through Northwest Indiana.
• Member of the Nazarene Youth International Council, served on the Fall Retreat committee and delegate to the Nazarene General Assembly for NYI.
Community Engagement and Recognitions
Rachel Guimond
• Journey Group Leader, Middle School Youth Sponsor, Children’s Volunteer, NYI Council, and Griefshare Co-leader for the Manteno Church of the Nazarene.
• Manteno Youth Baseball/Softball League Equipment Exchange Coordinator.
• Manteno High School Volunteer.
• Provide grief counseling to staff members of Uplifted Care.
Laurie Hofman
• Bourbonnais Public Library Board of Trustees.
• Personnel Committee Chair –Bourbonnais Public Library.
Dave Horton
• With Tricia Mills, led the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program for community members in need.
Brian Hyma
• Led Shalom Project mission trip to the Dominican Republic.
• Elder at River Valley Christian Fellowship.
Kristy Ingram
• Small group leader and host.
• Supporter for Remember Nhu in Cambodia.
• Volunteer at Khmer Support Giving Circle: Cambodian Association of Illinois.
• Volunteer at Salvation Army.
Ann Johnston
• Volunteer at the YMCA.
April Kamba
• Volunteer for River Valley Special Recreation Association.
Lance Kilpatrick
• Coach Manteno Nazarene Church softball team.
• Worship team member at Manteno Church of the Nazarene.
• Assistant director of Children’s Christmas service at Manteno Church of the Nazarene.
• Served on the Nazarene Discipleship International Committee.
• Coached 3rd–5th grade basketball team at Adventure Commons
• Direct the Men’s Basketball Outreach Program at Manteno Church of the Nazarene.
Queen Kisoso
• Volunteer at Flu Clinic at College Church of the Nazarene.
• In partnership with Ascension St. Mary Hospital administered flu, COVID and pneumonia vaccines to members of the Pembroke community.
• In partnership with Morning Star Missionary Baptist Church, provided well-checks to congregants.
Kimberly Lynch
• Volunteer with Kankakee County Health Department Clinic.
• Volunteer with Feed My Starving Children.
Kristin Mathews
• Children’s Church and VBS lead teacher at Life Compass Church in Kankakee, Ill.
• Mentor to young adults at Hope Collective Church.
Kathi Meleskie-Lippert
• School Supply Distribution at Southwest Indiana Food Bank volunteer
• Volunteer at Meals on Wheels in Northwest Indiana.
Tricia Mills
• With Dave Horton, led the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program for community members in need.
Mary Nehls
• Member of Uplifted Care Board of Directors.
• Uplifted Care Quality Assurance Program Improvement Sub-committee.
• Uplifted Care Diversity and Inclusion Sub-committee.
• Kankakee County Child & Adolescent Local Area Network #26.
• Kankakee County Mental Health Roundtable.
• Night to Shine volunteer.
Patty Nielsen
• Volunteer with Feed My Starving Children.
Joy Ogden
• Made handmade quilts for underprivileged and homeless children.
• Take blood pressures for the local senior center.
Tonya Peterson
• Taught teen youth group at Christ First Baptist Church in Minooka, Ill.
• Cancer Care Team ministry founder and director at Christ First Baptist Church.
• Mentor to new doctoral students at Governor’s State University.
Suzanne Phipps
• Volunteer for Feed My Starving Children.
• Human Trafficking Ministry at Willow.
Brooke Piper
• Volunteer for basketball and soccer at Adventure Commons.
• Volunteer with Feed My Starving Children.
Todd Reid
• Volunteer for Kankakee Valley Special Recreation.
• Volunteer in Athletics for Bishop McNamara High School.
Amber Residori
• Riverside Medical Center Executive Board Member.
• Riverside Medical Center Board Member.
• Riverside Medical Center Joint Conference Sub-Committee.
• Riverside Medical Center Ad Hoc Governance Board Member.
• Kankakee County Partnership for Healthy Communities Steering Committee Member.
• Kankakee County Partnership for Healthy Communities Education & Employment Sub-committee Member.
Glen Rewerts
• Pro bona legal work for various charitable organizations and individuals.
• Guest preacher for Cornerstone Church.
Josh Riley
• Pastor of First Baptist Church of Kankakee.
• Volunteer with Catholic Charities.
Yvette Rose
• Volunteer at Still I Rise Health.
• Organized/attended Virtual Breast Cancer event.
• Youth Mental Health and Wellness Fest volunteer.
• Volunteer at ALIVE Literacy & Baby Talk Program.
• Volunteer at Ascension St. Mary’s Mobile Food Pantry.
• Volunteer at Merchant Street Music Fest.
• Volunteer at Women United’s Kindness Project with Mattea’s Joy.
• Organizer and Volunteer Mu Zeta Sigma Breast Cancer Stroll in Collaboration with Ascension St. Mary’s Hospital, Riverside Behavior Health, and Kankakee County Health Department.
• Volunteer at Caldwell Chapel AME Zion Church Annual Free Thanksgiving Dinner.
• Volunteer at Choices Youth Outreach & Morning Star Missionary Baptist Church.
• Volunteer at Knights of Columbus Mu Zeta Sigma Rhoer Children’s Coat Drive.
• Night to Shine Medical Team volunteer.
• Volunteer at Women United’s Annual Breakfast.
Paige Salomone
• Volunteer advisor on the Community Commission to End Domestic Violence with Harbor House.
• Provide domestic violence counseling services for Harbor House.
Dawn Schwarzkopf
• Night to Shine volunteer.
• Advisory Board for Aunt Martha’s Healthy Families Program.
• Volunteer on the Community Theraplay Committee for Kankakee County through Project SUN.
• Volunteer in the Toddlers Room, Small Group Leader, and Leadership Development Project at GatheringPoint Church of the Nazarene.
• Volunteer at the Center of Hope.
• Volunteer at Path Forward/Illinois Collaboration Literacy Action Plan.
Karen Smith
• Camp nurse at Compass Church of Naperville.
Shelly Stroud
• Collaborate with Riverside’s Emergency Preparedness Coordinator, to organize student participation in a community disaster exercise involving Herscher Fire, Riverside and St. Mary’s.
• Collaborate with Norfolk Southern Railroad to learn investigative and safety processes during railroad disasters.
• Volunteer with Free the Girls with students.
Brad Thomas
• Marketing assistant for the Bourbonnais Township Park District.
DeAnna VanKuren
• Hospitality minister at Maternity BVM Church.
Cynth Veronda
• Participation in the Success by Six Summer Event at the Kankakee Farmer’s Market.
• Participation in the Birth to Five grant program activities.
• Participation and contribution to St. George Catholic Church’s Special Projects.
Becky Vine
• Volunteer at Pioneer Park Community Day.
FOR 2023–2024
Faculty Recognitions
SCHOOL OF THEOLOGY AND CHRISTIAN MINISTRY
Recent Scholarship Grant Recipient
Chad Maxson
• Received a grant from Fordham University to attend and make a presentation at the Revelation and Phenomenology Conference.
Scholarship Projects (Completed)
Leon Blanchette
• Presented “From Proposal to Implementation: The Founding of the Center for Faith and Family” at 2024 Scholar Week with Dr. Mark Frisius and Pastor Lindsey Bush.
• Served as a panel Member with Dr. Dean Blevins on the “Christian Parenting Initiative” at the Religious Education Association conference in July 2023.
Mark Frisius
• Co-presented “Program Prioritization: Year 2 of a Qualitative and Quantitative approach,” with Lisa Gassin and Jonathan Pickering at the Higher Learning Commission Annual Conference, April 2024.
• Co-presented “From Proposal to Implementation: The Founding of the Center for Faith and Family,” with Leon Blanchette and Lindsey Bush at Olivet Nazarene University Scholar Week, April 2024.
• Podcast Presenter — Faith Together. Presented four podcasts about the theological and historical theory behind the founding of the Center for Faith and Family.
• Developed curriculum for eight video sessions with leader guides for “Foundations of the Faith” video curriculum for the Center for Faith and Family.
Kevin Lowery
• Podcast: The Happy Cynics (with Isaac Dillman) — 36 published episodes; over 45 hours (as of May 13, 2024).
Chad Maxson
• Successfully defended dissertation and had two articles accepted for publication, though the publication dates have yet to be determined.
Kevin Mellish
• Completed a series of commentaries/ expositions on Daniel 1–3, 5–7, 9 for Illustrated Bible Life curriculum.
• Completed an article on Wisdom Literature for Faith Connections curriculum.
• Finished a series of four commentaries/ expositions on texts in Leviticus — Deuteronomy for Faith Connections curriculum.
Simone Twibell
• Presented “The Promise of Prayer: A Trinitarian Perspective” during Olivet’s Scholar Week, April 2024.
• Authored “Boundary-Breaking Mission: The Gospel in a Diverse World” (Wipf and Stock, OR, 2023).
• Spoke in chapel twice.
• Presented at Historical Society at NTS.
Laura Widstrom
• Presented “Youth Ministry on the Margins: Contrasting Four Approaches to Disability and Trauma Informed Ministry” with co-author, Mike Severe at the Association of Youth Ministry Educators, Annual Meeting.
• Presented “The Intersection of Trauma and Special Needs in Children” to Olivet Group “Imago Dei” 2024.
Professional Leadership
Leon Blanchette
• Co-hosted 27 episodes for the Faith Together podcast.
• Conducted workshops and preached at two churches for Center for Faith and Family.
• Helped produce eight video curriculum lessons for Center for Faith and Family.
Kevin Mellish
• Helped lead two faculty sessions on the topic of using AI as ethical/moral beings.
Simone Twibell
• Served as a member, USA/Canada Regional Course of Study for Church of the Nazarene.
Advanced Degree Earned
Chad Maxson, Ph.D., Theological Studies, Vanderbilt University.
Community Engagement & Recognitions
Leon Blanchette
• Served as part-time children’s pastor at Kankakee First Church of the Nazarene where main responsibilities include leading children’s ministry and mentoring ministry students participating in internships.
• Served on the Board of Ministry Executive Committed for the Chicago Central District.
Eddie Ellis
• Participated with his family in Sleep in Heavenly Peace, an organization that builds, delivers, and assembles beds for children.
Mark Frisius
• Taught a Sunday School class at Kankakee First Church of the Nazarene.
• Directed the community garden at K1.
Chad Maxson
• Taught a six-week seminar at College Church on the Epistle to the Romans.
Laura Widstrom
• Coached Dynamo Youth Soccer League, July 2023–October 2023.
• Coached for Adventure Commons Youth Soccer League, January 2024–March 2024.
• Coached for Chicagoland United Youth Soccer League, April 2024–June 2024.
• Served as a Bible Quiz Coach, Kankakee First Church of the Nazarene, September 2023–April 2024.
• Volunteered with youth ministry, Kankakee First Church of the Nazarene, February 2024–present.
• Participated with Live 1:17, a local group for foster and adoptive moms.
Simone Twibell
• Spoke at International Day at Resurrection Community.
• Helped with pulpit supply (Resurrection Community).
• Served as Interim Pastor at Pompano Beach Church of the Nazarene (summer 2023).
Faculty/Staff Member of the Year Awards
2023
Dr. Lance Kilpatrick/ Mrs. Stacey Moore 2022
Dr. Tiffany Greer/ Mr. Drew Benson
2021
Dr. Dan Sharda/ Mr. Kyle Olney 2019
Mr. Gary Newsome/ Mr. Rob Lalumendre 2018
Dr. Joseph Schroeder/ Dr. Lisa Vander Veer 2017
Dr. Mike Pyle/ Mr. Jeremy Alderson 2016
Dr. David Van Heemst/ Miss Faith Newman 2015
Professor Jerry Cohagan/ Mr. Tony Fightmaster 2014
Dr. Glen Rewerts/ Mr. Marlin Wallace 2013
Professor David Wine/ Mrs. Marjorie Vinson 2012
Professor. Bill Bahr/ Mr. Thane Moore 2011
Dr. James Upchurch/ Mrs. Susan Wolff
2010
Dr. Don Daake/ Mr. Donnie Johnson 2009
All Faculty and Staff 2008
Dr. Jeff Bell/ Mrs. Dianne Schaafsma 2007
Dr. Bob Wright/ Mrs. Kathy Steinacker 2006
Dr. Don Reddick/ Mr. Greg Bruner
2005
Dr. Shirlee A. McGuire/
Mr. Brian Parker
PAST RECIPENTS
Dr. Carol Maxson/ Mr. Matt Whitis
2003
Dr. Diane Richardson/ Mr. Dan Ferris 2002
Dr. Sara Spruce/ Rev. Walter “Woody” Webb 2001
Professor Amy Golyshko/ Mrs. Mary Anderson
2000
Dr. Richard Colling/ Mr. Brian Allen 1999
Dr. Judith Whitis/ Mr. Wendy Parsons 1998
Mrs. Kathy Boyens/ Mrs. Phyllis Harris 1997
Mr. Larry Watson/ Mr. Gary Griffin 1996
Professor Mike LaReau/ Mrs. Betty Elliott 1995
Dr. Henry L. Smith/ Mr. David J. Pickering 1994
Dr. Randal D. Johnson/ Mr. Darrell W. Bellomy 1993
Rev. William Foote/ Mrs. Joyce Muhm 1992
Professor Charlotte Keck/ Mr. Donald Keck 1991
Dr. Harlow Hopkins/ Mrs. Mary Gates 1990
Mr. Allan Wiens/ Mrs. Thelma Collins 1989
Dr. Gerald Anderson/ Mrs. Connie Skinner 1988
Mr. Frank Garton/ Mr. Dennis Seymour
1987
Mr. Don Toland/ Mr. Jim Knight 1986
Dr. Gary Streit/ Mr. Doug Perry 1985
Dr. William Ellwanger/ Rev. John Mongerson 1984
Dr. Harry Westfall/ Mr. Phil Richardson 1983
Dr. Carolyn Sechrist/ Mr. Clifford Hayman and Mrs. June Hayman 1982
Dr. David Atkinson/ Rev. Gordon Wickersham 1981
Mrs. Gunnell Jorden/ Mr. Pat Duncan 1980
Dr. George Dunbar/ Mr. Richard Matheny 1979
Dr. Joseph Nielson/ Mr. James Tripp 1978
Dr. Harvey Collins/ Mr. Linford Marquart 1977
Mr. C.W. Ward and Dr. Richard Wirt/ Dr. William Hodges and Ms. Judy King 1976
Dr. Max Reams/ Dr. Ted Lee 1975
Dr. Harry Fulton/ Mr. Efton Elliott 1974
Dr. Joseph Nielson/ Mr. James Tripp 1973
Dr. William Bell/ Dr. L.A. Marquart 1972
Dr. Otho Jennings/ Rev. Norman Moore
1971
Dr. Ralph Perry/ Dr. Mervyn Goins 1970
Professor Naomi Larsen/ Mr. Roy Brown 1969
Dr. Mary Shaffer/ Ms. Esther Tripp 1968
Professor Elbert Pence/ Mr. Charles Beatty 1967
Dr. Vernal Carmichael/ Mr. William Bennett 1966
Dr. John Hanson/ Mrs. Ruth Lane 1965
Dr. Fordyce Bennett/ Dr. John Cotner 1964
Dr. David Jones/ Mr. Charles Henderson 1963
Dr. Vernon Groves/ Mrs. Gladys Corbett 1962
Dr. Billy Hobbs/ Mrs. Dorothy Swearengen 1961
Professor Gardner Walmsley/ Mr. Albert Bloom 1960
Professor Rockwell Brank/ Mr. Harlan Milby 1959
Dr. Coral Demaray/ Mrs. Emily Reeves 1958
Mr. Leonard Anderson/ Dr. Willis Snowbarger 1957
Dr. Walter Larsen/ Dr. R.L. Lunsford 1956
Dr. D.J. Strickler/ Mr. Alyn Fletcher 2004
Dr. Clarence Grothaus/ Mr. Ed Brodien 1955
Professor Leo Slagg/ Dr. Paul Schwada 1954
FROM 1907 TO THE PRESENT
Historical Markers at Olivet
Olivet Nazarene University’s origins can be traced to the first decade of the last century and to the resolve of several families in east central Illinois who were committed to providing a Christian education for their children.
In 1907 the prologue to the Olivet story began with elementary school classes taught by Miss Mary Nesbitt in a home in the community of Georgetown, Illinois. A year later, the founders of this small school acquired several acres of land in the nearby village called Olivet. There, they raised a modest building and added the secondary level of instruction. A College of Liberal Arts followed in 1909, along with the first name for this fledgling, but ambitious institution: “Illinois Holiness University.” The articles of incorporation established the school as a liberal arts institution which focused on the classics and included the study of the Bible based on the Wesleyan theological concept of entire sanctification. The first president, A.M. Hills, was appointed in 1909.
By 1912, the ambitions of Olivet’s founders outran their capacity. Nearing bankruptcy, the school was saved by 25 congregations of the Chicago District of the Church of the Nazarene, in a sum of modern equivalent to $3 million. This young denomination loved education, having established 10 schools in its first decade. In fact, the denomination was given its name by J.P. Widney, president of the University of Southern California, and a panel at Harvard on denominationally-affiliated universities concluded that the Church of the Nazarene cannot be conceived apart from its schools. That early church commitment is still being perpetuated by the more than 800 Nazarene congregations throughout Illinois, Indiana, Michigan and Wisconsin.
The school grew slowly during the next decade. There were several acting and short-term presidents and the campus of 18 acres contained only a few small buildings. The first yearbook, the Aurora, was published in 1914. A new school name followed in 1915: “Olivet University,” and in 1923, the name was changed to “Olivet College.”
Historical Markers at Olivet
The 1920s were a defining decade for the school. The world was experiencing unprecedented societal liberation following the end of World War I. However, Olivet remained steadfast in its conservative fabric. As was the case with many small church colleges at the time, Olivet’s finances eroded significantly with just 75 cents in the bank and a debt of modern equivalent of $5 million, forcing the trustees to declare bankruptcy in 1926. The then-college treasurer and Nazarene pastor, Dr. T.W. Willingham, bought the school personally at a public auction, gifted it back to the trustees, and outlined a new plan for solvency. He was elected that night as president.
A devastating fire destroyed the main campus building in November 1938, prompting the newly elected president, A.L. Parrott, and the trustees to consider locating a new campus as an alternative to rebuilding at their rural site. They found the present campus in Bourbonnais in 1939 which had been lost to bankruptcy by St. Viator’s College, who launched the 42-acre campus in 1868. Olivet made an offer that was accepted, but was short the modern equivalent of $2 million. Once again, Nazarene congregations made up the difference. Olivet moved in the summer of 1940, and “Nazarene” was added to the college’s name that same year. Four of the original 1868 buildings are still in use today: Burke Administration Building, Chapman Hall, Miller Business Center, and Birchard Gymnasium.
Receiving formal recognition and accreditation by the University of Illinois in 1939 was a major academic milestone for Olivet. The college catalogs of the 1940s reflected a School of Liberal Arts, a School of Music, a School of Religion, and a high school Academy.
Dr. Harold W. Reed, president from 1949–1975, led Olivet through a period of remarkable growth. As World War II ended, the GI Bill provided unprecedented financial support for a quickly-growing U.S. population to attend college. Olivet reaped the benefit, tripling in enrollment during the era. Dr. Reed was hugely influential in securing funding for the construction and renovation of 20 major buildings to keep pace with swelling enrollment. Intercollegiate athletic contests were added in the 1960s, beginning with men’s basketball in 1965, and expanding through the late 60s and early 70s with seven more sports including women’s basketball and volleyball.
Olivet purchased additional properties to expand the campus, some of which later became the Snowbarger Athletic Complex named for the academic dean
of the time. Also added were academic buildings including Reed Hall of Science, Wisner Hall of Nursing, Chalfant Hall and Strickler Planetarium. Notably, a destructive tornado in 1963 caused more than $1 million of damages and injured 40 students, but again, Olivet survived crisis.
Dr. Leslie Parrott continued a focus on campus expansion, development and beautification during his 16-year presidential tenure from 1975-1991, with a specific interest in the elevation of Olivet to university status. In 1986, the school’s name was changed to “Olivet Nazarene University” to reflect the diversity of academic programs and graduate studies. With a new name came other changes including the design of an official University seal, created by assistant art professor Donald Royal, and repainting the smokestack with a new acronym.
Dr. Parrott expanded intercollegiate athletics into football, led by C.W. “Butch” Ward, in 1976. He also oversaw the construction of Larsen Fine Arts Center, Hardy C. Powers President’s Home, Warming House, J.R. Tripp Maintenance Center and the Leslie Parrott Convocation Center. In 1982, to celebrate the Diamond Jubilee of Olivet’s 75 years as a college, professor Harvey Collins was commissioned to paint a mural depicting the history of the school in the dining hall of Ludwig Center.
Dr. John C. Bowling became Olivet’s longest-serving and in many ways most significant president, 1991–2021. The macro-economic and cultural mores of the nation supported an average of 60% enrollment growth across the entire 115-member Council of Christian Colleges & Universities, Olivet included. The Bowling era was notable for doubling the size of the student body; fortifying Olivet’s academic offerings and reputation; expanding varsity athletics to include 22 teams; and producing many new facilities, such as Hopkins Alumni Center, Hammes bookstore, the Bowling Admissions Center, Weber Center, Fortin Villa ROTC building, the 3,000-seat Hawkins Centennial Chapel, the Perry Student Life and Recreation Center, a 20,000-square-foot addition to Reed Hall of Science, the Sims Education Center, and more.
Consequential programmatic features added value, such as establishing Olivet’s first professional fundraising program which today consistently provides 10% of annual revenues, including a remarkable $2 million annually from the Central Region of the Church of the Nazarene’s 800 congregations. There was also the creation of a Chaplaincy; the expansion of study abroad programs and local Christian mission projects; updating all IT and computer lab services; establishing the Center for Student Success and later the Center for Academic
Historical Markers at Olivet
Excellence; an 18-year partnership beginning in 2002 with the Chicago Bears to host summer practices; Shine.fm (WONU) radio broadcasting grew to 200,000 listeners; digital sheet music and iPads contributed to the School of Music’s Apple Distinguished Program designation; the ONU Tigers Marching Band performed London and Washington, D.C. and Rome, Italy; and more. From 2000–2017, the University also experienced remarkable growth in academic programs and services to non-traditional students — peaking at nearly 2,500 enrolled students in Graduate and Continuing Studies programs.
By the mid-2010s, the “enrollment cliff” struck higher education with the challenging circumstances of decreased birth rates (drastically reducing available traditional-aged students), the lowest interest rates in 50 years, and lowest unemployment rate in 30 years (disincentivizing non-traditional student enrollment). Soon after, the worst pandemic in a century struck the world in late 2019. COVID shut down businesses, churches, and very briefly, Olivet’s campus, and imploded the economy for two years. All colleges across the state of Illinois, regardless of institution type, were impacted by significant decreases in enrollment. But God is faithful and Olivet was able to continue opening its doors to receive students who are interested in “Education With a Christian Purpose.”
In 2021, the Board of Trustees elected Gregg Chenoweth, Ph.D. as Olivet’s 13th president. Following a discernment phase with hundreds of constituents and nearly 30 faculty and staff leaders, Olivet now stewards five priorities through 2027: (1) helping students persist to record graduation rates, (2) making Olivet affordable for target populations of greatest need, (3) applying Olivet’s virtue to strengthen four moral issues of our time, (4) installing a series of operational efficiencies while raising an aspirational quantity of funds, and (5) stabilizing enrollment through niche recruitment domains.
For 18 consecutive years, U.S. News and World Report named Olivet as a top regional university in its “America’s Best Colleges” report and the Best Christian Workplaces Institute consistently qualifies Olivet among the top work cultures among its national participants.
As we begin the 2024–2025 academic school year, Olivet welcomes its largest group of new students.
OUR MISSION
Olivet Nazarene University, a denominational university in the Wesleyan tradition, exists to provide a university-level liberal arts “Education With a Christian Purpose.”
Our mission 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 seek the strongest scholarship and the deepest piety, knowing that they are compatible [and] … a Christian environment … where not only knowledge but character is sought.” (The quotation is taken from the Olivet Catalog, 1915.)
This mission provides the common ground for us as we blend our various gifts and interests together to impact each student. You will have many opportunities this year to live out this mission. Watch for those occasions, for they are moments of great possibility and reward. Through our mission, we transform lives for eternity.
OUR VALUES
Christ-Centered Christ transforms people and the entire University.
Community
Sharing life together is sacred.
Stewardship God expects a return on His provision.
Innovation
We respond quickly to needs and opportunities.
Distinction
We make extraordinary impact.
Heritage A legacy lives in heart and practice.
OUR PEOPLE PRINCIPLES
Exhibit grace.
Seek to understand rather than be understood.
Assume good intentions. Be transparent.
Support, encourage and empower.
COLLEGES, SCHOOLS & MAJORS
Undergraduate Areas of Study
AND GRADUATE DEGREE PROGRAMS
The University offers a wide variety of opportunities for students traditional, transfer and advanced degree seekers to grow personally, spiritually and professionally as they make the most of their college experience.
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 – Jazz Studies
Music – Performance
Music – Recording Arts
Music Education
Music Ministry
Olivet.edu/Academics
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 and 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
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
Interior Design
Kinesiology
Kinesiology – Exercise Physiology
Kinesiology – Pre-Athletic Training
Kinesiology – Pre-Occupational Therapy
Kinesiology – Pre-Physical Therapy
Military Affairs
Military Science
Physical Education/ Health Education
Recreation and Sport Studies –Recreation Management
Recreation and Sport Studies –Coaching & Human Performance
Social Work
Sport Management –Administration & Leadership
Sport Management – Sales & Marketing
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
Business Administration –Human Resource Management
Business Administration – Management
Business Administration –Operations Management
Business Administration –Philanthropy/Not-for-Profit
Business Administration –Public Administration
Economics
Economics & Finance –
Applied Economics
Economics & Finance –
Certified Financial Planning
Economics & Finance –
Corporate Finance
Entrepreneurship
Finance
International Business
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
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
Religious Studies
Theology
Youth Ministry
Master of Arts in Christian Ministry
Master of Arts in Family Ministry
Master of Arts in Ministerial Studies
Master of Arts in Missional Multiplication
Master of Arts in Pastoral Leadership
Master of Arts in Religion
Master of Divinity
Master of Ministry
Master of Ministry: Spanish
GENERAL STUDIES
General Studies