Issuu

2026 OLIVET.EDU/HC

Thursday–Sunday, October 22–25

YOUR WEEKEND SCHEDULE THURSDAY, OCT. 22

7:00 PM Women’s Volleyball Home Match / McHie Arena 9:30 PM Throwback Thursday Student Pancake Feed / Ludwig Dining Hall RSVP Required

FRIDAY, OCT. 23

8:00 AM Homecoming Purple & Gold Visit Day / Admissions Center RSVP Required – Olivet.edu/Visit —— A M A I N E V E N T ——

10:00 AM Homecoming Chapel / Centennial Chapel

12:00 PM University Archives Open House / Benner Library 1:00 PM Ovid Young Memorial Organ Recital / Centennial Chapel Ticket Required 1:30 PM School of Theology and Christian Ministry Alumni Gathering Burke 3rd Floor Cafe / RSVP Required 2:00 PM History & Political Science Mixer / Burke, Room 307 / RSVP Required

Shine.FM Open House / Shine.FM, Lobby Alumni Lecture Series with Dr. Kent Olney: “Why Your Marriage is at Risk and What You Can Do About It” / Weber Center, Room 104 2:30 PM Planetarium Show / Strickler Planetarium / Ticket Required 3:00 PM School of Nursing Homecoming Tea Reception Wisner Hall for Nursing, Rooms 159 & 160 / RSVP Required

Alumni Lecture Series with Dr. Jay Martinson: “Can You Hear the Memories? A Journey Through the Technologies of Recorded Music” Weber Center, Room 104

If you need assistance, visit the Homecoming Hospitality Center in the lobby of the Perry Center or call 815-939-5258. Tickets will be emailed to you. You may receive help printing them off at the Homecoming Hospitality Center. Families are welcome to enjoy the field house and lower level of the Perry Center as an indoor place to have fun.

SCAN FOR TICKETS & INFORMATION

3:30 PM Planetarium Show / Strickler Planetarium / Ticket Required 4:00 PM Phi Delta Lambda Open House / Benner, Room 007 / Ticket Required

Interior & Architectural Design Alumni Reunion Weber Center, Room 204 / RSVP Required

Research Poster Session / Reed Hall of Science, Atrium STEM Alumni Gathering / Reed Hall of Science, Atrium / RSVP Required 5:00 PM Johnson Gallery & Research Awards / Reed Hall of Science, Atrium —— A M A I N E V E N T ——

5:15 PM Women’s Basketball Game / McHie Arena / Ticket Required 5:30 PM Catalyst Banquet / Reed Hall of Science, Room 330 / RSVP Required 7:00 PM Women’s Basketball Reception / Birchard Gymnasium RSVP Required

ONU Tiger Hockey / Ice Valley Centre, Kankakee / Ticket Required — Available Online or at the Door

ONU Theatre Fall Play: “Metamorphoses” / Sims Black Box Theatre Ticket Required

—— A M A I N E V E N T ——

7:30 PM Men’s Basketball Game / McHie Arena / Ticket Required

OLIVET.EDU/HC

—— A M A I N E V E N T ——

8:30 PM 5th Quarter Fair / Perry Center, Fieldhouse / Ticket Required

SATURDAY, OCT. 24

9:00 AM Alumni Swim Meet / Perry Center, Pool / RSVP Required 9:00 AM Future Tigers Training / College Church, Kids Zone / Ticket Required —— A M A I N E V E N T ——

9:30 AM Purple & Gold Reunion / College Church, Christian Life Center Ticket Required —— A M A I N E V E N T ——

Class Reunions / Chalfant Hall / Ticket Required 10:00 AM Shine.FM Open House / Shine.FM Lobby

Table of Contents

—— A M A I N E V E N T ——

11:00 AM Family Fun Zone & Tailgate / Warming House, Lawn and Patio (Rink)

Women’s Basketball Alumni Game / McHie Arena / Ticket Required Players Required to RSVP

Women’s Soccer Alumni Game / Bahr Soccer Facility, Concessions Area / RSVP to bbahr@olivet.edu

—— A M A I N E V E N T ——

1:00 PM Homecoming Football Game / Ward Field / Ticket Required

Guest Artist Exhibition (Online Experience Available until October 31) Victorian House Gallery

2:00 PM ONU Theatre Fall Play: “Metamorphoses” / Sims Black Box Theatre Ticket Required 3:00 PM Planetarium Show / Strickler Planetarium / Ticket Required

ResLife Reunion / Perry Center, Room 222 / RSVP Required Computer Science Alumni vs. Students Capture the Flag (CTF) Cyber Challenge / Reed Hall of Science, Rooms 211 & 212 RSVP Required

3:30 PM ONU Tiger Hockey / Ice Valley Centre, Kankakee / Ticket Required — Available Online or at the Door

Women’s Volleyball Alumni Game / McHie Arena / Perry, Room 100 RSVP to jostem@olivet.edu

4:00 PM Varsity Women’s Soccer Game / Bahr Soccer Field 5:00 PM Missionary Reunion / College Church, Room 100 / Ticket Required

Planetarium Show / Strickler Planetarium / Ticket Required —— A M A I N E V E N T ——

7:30 PM Homecoming Concert: “Music from the American Songbook” featuring Olivet’s School of Music / Centennial Chapel / Ticket Required 9:15 PM “Homecoming Alumni Comedy Show” by Spoons 4 Forks Wisner Auditorium / Tickets Sold at the Door

WELCOME FROM DR. CHENOWETH

4–5

HOMECOMING CHAPEL, YOUNG ALUMNI AWARDS

6–8

CLASS REUNIONS

HOMECOMING CONCERT

16–17

“O” AWARDS

20–22

PRESIDENT’S PRAYER BREAKFAST

ALUMNI RELATIONS STAFF AND BOARD OF DIRECTORS

CAMPUS MAP

SUNDAY, OCT. 25

30–31

—— A M A I N E V E N T ——

8:00 AM President’s Prayer Breakfast / Chalfant Hall / Ticket Required 10:30 AM Homecoming Church Service / College Church University Avenue

From the University President

DEAR ALUMNI AND FRIENDS, Tammy and I are delighted to have you back to Olivet Nazarene University. We hope that you feel at home again during your time here for Homecoming and Family Weekend. These are exciting days at the University and I trust you will sense the Holy Spirit at work while you are here. Perhaps you never miss Homecoming, or maybe this is your first time back on campus in 50 years. Either way, you will see renovations on campus, new faculty members and new students — but we know that you will recognize the tried and true Olivet. Our aim is to provide a high-quality education that develops students personally, professionally and spiritually through an “Education With a Christian Purpose.” It is a privilege to serve as President and I take seriously the responsibility to make Olivet the best it can be. I want Olivet to thrive, not just for you and me, but for the next generation of Olivetians. We have an important part to play in the world and there is a great need for Olivet people in every industry. Thank you for making a difference in the world around you. Welcome home! Sincerely, Gregg Chenoweth, Ph.D.

10 a.m. | Friday, October 23 | Centennial Chapel

HOMECOMING CHAPEL

Order of Service PRELUDE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Josh Ring ’13 Assistant Professor of Music CALL TO WORSHIP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Proclamation Gospel Choir Marvin Jones, Director; Professor of Music WELCOME. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Susan (Hendley) Wolff ’94 Associate Vice President for Institutional Advancement PRAYER . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ryan Green University Chaplain CONGREGATIONAL WORSHIP YOUNG ALUMNI AWARDS AND . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Erika Moeschke ’12 SCHOLARSHIP PRESENTATIONS Senior Director of Alumni Relations and University Advancement YOUNG ALUMNI AWARD RECIPIENT. . . . Sarah (Throneburg) Wollerman ’21 YOUNG ALUMNI AWARD RECIPIENT. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Demetri Morris ’20 CLOSING COMMENTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Erika Moeschke ALMA MATER. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Neal Woodruff ’91 Associate Dean, School of Music POSTLUDE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Josh Ring After Homecoming Chapel, there is more to see and do including open houses, theatre performances, athletic competitions and the 5th Quarter Fair. 6

Young Alumni Awards Since 2011, Olivet Nazarene University’s Alumni Association has proudly presented two Young Alumni Awards during Homecoming to alumni who have demonstrated exemplary leadership in their careers within 10 years of graduating from the University.

SARAH

DEMETRI MORRIS

(THRONEBURG)

WOLLERMAN

’20

’21/’22 MBA

“My grandfather, Jesse Morris, was my first-ever investor in my dreams,” says Demetri Morris. “He made sure my ship was sailing.” That unwavering support launched Demetri into many adventures and successes.

Sarah Throneburg grew up on a farm in central Illinois. She had two dreams: a Christian college education and a career with the American Red Cross. While in high school, Sarah researched colleges to visit, and Olivet Nazarene University kept coming up in her searches. So, she decided to visit Olivet, just to make sure she could cross it off her list. When she attended Purple & Gold Days, she knew immediately that Olivet was where she belonged.

He pursued his interest in business and branding at Olivet, where he found much more than he expected. “Elijah Decker was my RA sophomore year, and he’s been one of my best friends ever since,” Demetri says. “I’ve made connections at Olivet that have lasted.”

continued, next page

YOUNG ALUMNI AWARDS Sarah Wollerman, continued

Demetri Morris, continued

“Education at Olivet is not just about grades, not just about faith,” Sarah says. “Olivet is committed to helping students grow into better people. Olivet has everything students need to prepare them for life.”

A turning point came at a job fair sponsored by the McGraw School of Business, where Demetri met Dr. Jeff Williamson, a professor and entrepreneur, who became his mentor. “I’ve had mentors who took risks on me, and that taught me to take risks on myself,” he says. “You’ve got to bet on yourself and block out the noise.”

Sarah earned her bachelor’s degree in Social Sciences Education with a minor in Business and her Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree at Olivet. In 2021, she also earned her Private Pilot License from the Federal Aviation Administration

Demetri adds: “As a Management Information Systems major at Olivet, I learned about mentorship, accountability, confidence, staying on the right path. I found people who genuinely care about me.”

Today, Sarah serves as a Community Disaster Program Manager for American Red Cross of Nebraska and Southwest Iowa, based in Omaha, Nebraska. She manages a team of 140 volunteers and oversees 3 Nebraska counties and 18 Iowa counties. Her Olivet education, including Enactus and the mentorship of Dr. Lynda Allen ’82/’88 MBA, provided her with the skills she needed to step into this challenging position so early in her career. In 2024, Sarah received the Employee of the Year Award for her region.

Today, Demetri leads MORR, which helps brands and creators find their voice and build ecosystems around what they do. Its mission is helping ambitious brands become more human. From strategy and creative to marketing and technology, MORR brings it all together so every piece drives growth. In 2025, Demetri was named to the Forbes “30 Under 30” for his work with more than 150 clients, including Adidas, Uber and Chick-fil-A.

Travel is one of Sarah’s greatest joys. In 2025, she and her college roommate, Allison Winter ’22, did the five-day hike to Machu Picchu in Peru.

“There is a difference between operating from fear and operating with God at the center,” Demetri says. “Building this hasn’t been a cakewalk, and I’ve faced plenty of rejection. But I’ve learned that rejection is your protection. Every closed door has pointed me where God wanted me to go. God created us to create, and the future awaits those with the courage to create it.” ■

Sarah married her high school sweetheart, Nicholas, in 2022 while they were teaching at Donovan High School. He is continuing his teaching career. They are now the parents of their first child, Myles, born in 2026. ■

BE PART OF WHAT MAKES OLIVET GREAT! Olivet recognizes those who lend their influence as alumni, family and friends who think, speak and act on behalf of the University in their workplace, church and community. The Office of Alumni Relations would like to help you advocate on behalf of Olivet.

YOU MAKE A DIFFERENCE! Your influence helps us celebrate the good things happening on campus and invite others into the Olivet experience. We have many resources designed to equip you to share and strengthen connections within our community. Scan the QR code to find ways to get involved!

Visit Olivet.edu/Advocacy

ENGAGE WITH THE GREATER OLIVET COMMUNITY ON OUR EXCLUSIVE SOCIAL MEDIA PLATFORM! Visit OlivetConnect.com to create your account and connect with alumni, family and ONU friends.

Create your account at OlivetConnect.com

with previous classmates as well as • Re-connect expand your professional network. students and receive Olivet gifts • Recommend while extending the reach of Olivet. 9

PERRY CENTER LOBBY OCTOBER 23–24 FRIDAY, 11 A.M.–2 P.M. and 4–9 P.M. SATURDAY, 8 A.M.–2 P.M. @OLIVETALUMNI

A limited-time collection of curated pieces offered only at Homecoming & Family Weekend featuring alumni artisans, designers and entrepreneurs.

April 14, 2027

9:30 a.m. | Saturday, October 24 | Chalfant Hall

UNDERGRADUATE CLASS REUNIONS

Breakfast for the Classes of 1966–2021 begins at 9:30 a.m. in Chalfant Hall. Following breakfast, each reunion class will go to their breakout location.

Breakout

Locations

P&G Alums — go directly to the College Church CLC for breakfast and programming beginning at 9:30 a.m.

Class of 1966

College Church CLC with P&G

Class of 1971

McHie Arena, Room 100

Class of 1976

Weber Leadership

Class of 1981

Tiger Den

Class of 1986

Ludwig Center, President’s Dining Room

Class of 1991

Weber Center, Rooms 305 & 306

Class of 1996

Weber Center, Room 304

Class of 2001

Weber Center, Room 207

Class of 2006

Weber Center, Room 301

Class of 2011

McHie Arena, Room 104

Class of 2016

Perry Center, Room 222

Class of 2021

Warming House

Order of Service W E LC O M E A N D P R AY E R . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Lisa (Schnicker) Garvin ’90 President of the Olivet Alumni Association P R E S I D E N T I A L R E M A R K S . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dr. Gregg Chenoweth ’90 University President C LO S I N G R E M A R K S . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Erika Moeschke ’12 Senior Director of Alumni Relations and University Advancement A L M A M AT E R After your reunion, enjoy a full day of Homecoming festivities. See pages 2 and 3 for the complete list. 12

LCOME TO

OCTOBER 24, 2026 A Night to Honor the Generosity of Leadership Society, Heritage Society and Founders Society Members

W ELCOME & PR AY ER Dr. Brian Allen

DINNER PA N E L P R E S E N TAT I O N

From My Seat: Your Generosity and Impact

A M E S S A G E O F G R AT I T U D E Dr. Gregg Chenoweth

The Homecoming Concert: Music from the American Songbook, featuring Olivet’s School of Music, begins at 7:30 p.m. in Centennial Chapel.

FOR OUR DONORS We appreciate your support of Olivet Nazarene University and its students — today and into the future.

LEADERSHIP SOCIETY members make annual gifts of $1,000 and greater to Olivet Nazarene University. Partnership in this way creates increased mission momentum and strengthens the Olivet experience for all students. Platinum Level Gold Level Silver Level Bronze Level

$25,000+ $10,000+ $5,000+ $1,000+

HERITAGE SOCIETY members include dedicated trustees, alumni, faculty, staff and other special friends who demonstrate their commitment by investing now for long-term impact. We commend them for their vision and generosity. The invested financial support of Heritage Society members secures the future so the Olivet experience can continue to shape lives.

FOUNDERS SOCIETY recognizes alumni and friends for the cumulative impact of lifetime giving — including current, deferred, and planned gifts from your estate. You achieve Founders Society membership through your giving at the following levels, joining the legacy of those whose namesake buildings on campus stand as a lasting tribute to vision and faithfulness: Centennial Level Burke Level Chalfant Level Birchard Level McClain Level Nesbitt Level Chapman Level Williams Level 15

$25,000,000+ $10,000,000 - $24,999,999 $5,000,000 - $9,999,999 $1,000,000 - $4,999,999 $500,000 - $999,999 $250,000 - $499,999 $100,000 - $249,999 $50,000 - $99,999

7:30 p.m. | Saturday, October 24 | Centennial Chapel

HOMECOMING CONCERT OLIV ET’ S S CHOOL OF MUSIC PRESENTS

Music from the American Songbook

TONIGHT’S PERFORMANCE NARRATED BY DR. KENT OLNEY PRE-CONCERT MUSIC BY JAZZ BAND UNDER THE DIRECTION OF JERRY LUZENIECKI

“The Superman March,” by John Williams. . . . . . . . . . . . . University Orchestra W E L C O M E A N D P R E S E N TAT I O N O F “ O ” AWA R D S P R E S E N TAT I O N O F C O L O R S N AT I O N A L A N T H E M – Orpheus Choir “Once to Ev’ry and Nation,” arranged by Ovid Young. . . . . . . . . Orpheus Choir “This is America,” arranged by David Clydesdale . . . . . . . . . Combined Choirs, University Orchestra “Patriotic Medley” . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Luke Olney ’10/’12 MOL, Amber (Leffel) Olney ’14, Jasper Taylor ’10/’12 MOL “The Magnificent Seven Overture,” by Elmer Bernstein. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . University Orchestra “Richard Rodgers in Concert,” arranged by Mac Huff & Paul Murtha . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . George Wolff ’93, University Orchestra, Concert Singers “Make Them Hear You” from RAGTIME, by Stephen Ahrens & Lynn Flaherty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Jasper Taylor, University Orchestra, Concert Singers “Can’t Help Lovin’ that Man,” from SHOWBOAT, by Jerome Kern & Oscar Hammerstein. . . . . . . . . . . Amber Olney, Luke Olney “Carry the Banner/Seize the Day,” from NEWSIES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ONU Theatre’s 2026 NEWSIES Cast, Concert Singers, University Orchestra “Tomorrow,” from ANNIE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Parker Birkey, Dr. Paul Kenyon “You’ll Never Walk Along/Climb Ev’ry Mountain,” by Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein. . . . . . . . . University Orchestra, Combined Choir “If My People,” by Marvin Winans. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Proclamation Gospel Choir “Amazing Grace”. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . George Wolff, Dr. Paul Kenyon “Let Freedom Ring,” arranged by David Clydesdale. . . . . . . . . . . George Wolff, Jasper Taylor, Luke Olney “Battle Hymn of the Republic,” arranged by Peter Wilhousky. . . . . . . University Orchestra, Combined Choirs “Stars and Stripes Forever,” by John Philip Sousa . . . . . University Orchestra

ST UD ENT MUS IC IA NS AND VOCAL ISTS UNIVERSITY ORCHESTRA DR. NEAL WOODRUFF ’91 Flute Zachary Mannebach Shannyn Stanford Ashley Salazar (piccolo) Oboe Cameron Raymer Kendall Allen Clarinet Jadyn Koehl Abigail Williams Kieran Cook Naiah Loy Sophia Willyerd (bass clarinet) Bassoon Angie Dempsey Horn Chase Sanderson June Eddy Lexie Shea Julia Janopoulos Trumpet Isa McCleskey Madison Greene Mollie Hines Trombone Jayce Riggle Emalie Myrum Trent Evans Tuba Daniel Marklund Percussion Evan Surdey Camdanh Allen Nathan Taylor Max Sullivan Ben Johnson Michael Neel Piano Louis Fournier Dr. Paul Kenyon Nathan Taylor Ethan Vigil Harp Violet Roberson Gabe Mau

Violin 1 Megan Wilkinson+ Ethan Vigil Beth Litwiller Sophia Metille Erika McBeath Akemi Hori Amelia Chastain Mattie O’Keefe Violin 2 Maddie Luft Emory Ragan Aims Adamson Maddie Ferguson Savannah Ray Avyn Hilt Maryssa Flynn Abi White Hope Duckworth Christian Sadulla Elijah Curry Viola Haley Wedster Gwyn Stanford Noah Peterson Rebekah Black Elizabeth Wroblewski Cello Jonas Porter George Wedster Rilee McDonald Jesse Payne Sadie Wood Bass Kent Gieselman Baylor Case +Concertmaster

CONCERT SINGERS DR. NEAL WOODRUFF ’91 Livi Bryant Annika Callan Carter Cheek Ash Cook Abby Diaz Shawn Emmerson Noemi Figueroa-Salinas Louis Fournier Jace Hunt Brianna Kanable Grant Kauffman Melody Kinder Sydney Lang Emma Morton Zach O’Haver

Jackson Page Jonas Porter Stella Ritchie Grey Roesti Benny Troxell Grant Tudor Sara Tynan PROCLAMATION GOSPEL CHOIR DR. MARVIN JONES Seth Ackerman John Adams Aimee Adamson Ellie Anderson Sarah Anderson Mikayla Arneson Maddie Antkoviak Kevon Battle Dallis Beedle Sarah Bougie Liv Burruel Lacy Buss Annika Callan Sarah Carlson Baylor Case Moriaha Colar Hannah Colburn Avah Coleman Sofia Costantini Joshua Crawford Ella de Koker Zoey DeVore Caleb Dollins Dylan Dorrance Shawn Emerson Kaitlyn Freesmeyer Andrew Fund Josiah Garret Vinnie Gincauskas Alejandra Gomez Madison Greene Nigel Grisby Cara Hancock Emma Haynes Kayla Hedger Domynic Hicke Mollie Hines Naomi Hollimon Frankie Huber Tayah Johnson Jamil Knight Julia Koerner Thor Marchio Gabriel Mau Morgan Mazeika Grace McCall Drake McPhail Abby Moore Emalie Myrum

Riley Palmer Hadley Peters Emory Ragen Jayce Riggle Hannah Rose Aubrey Rucker Joy Slattery Aiden Summers Faith Thompson Kate Tudor Liz Tyler Alex VanMatere Kazire Washington Caitlyn Watton Natalie Yoder

ORPHEUS CHOIR DR. JEFF BELL ’81 Leah Baumhauer Ava Brucker Olivia Felix Maria Gondos Gabby Phillips Savannah Ray Maya Robinson Ashlynn Scott Eliyah White Rachel Blacklock Breeze Buonicore Ashlynn Cook Abby Diaz Cassidy Hastings Akemi Hori Frankie Huber Aly Leisure Maya Spears Dexter Arens Trevor Gonzalez DJ Hicke Jack Lovelace Parker Richardson Judah Light Ella Close Jaina Dubbert Melody Kinder Evie Morris Maycee Nickle Giovanna Quilico Allison Robieson Lily Sturgell Izzy Wiley Raymond Boudreau Tobin Brown Johnny Cook Spencer Cook Konstantinos Karnezis Caleb McKnight Watson Porter Remington Schleyhahn

Ella De Koker Katie Litwiller Olivia Morris Abby Ortman Hannah Rose RyLeigh Shaul Liz Tyler Carter Cheek Andrew Drabenstot Shawn Emerson Jace Hunt Will Wiegman

SOUNDS OF PRAISE PROF. LUKE OLNEY ’10/’12 MOL Aims Adamson Greysen Alafoni Lidia Amador Ludovina Mikayla Arneson Logan Ascher Kristi Baxter Karina Cepeda Kaitlyn Clark Anna Cloninger Caleb Cloninger Avah Coleman Angela Rojas Cumana Ella de Koker Rebekah Dickey Dylan Dorrence Ethan Farr Olivia Gillett Ellie Grunden Eric Hall Declan Happel Julieta Herrarte Frankie Huber Lauren Johnson Tayah Johnson Caleb McKnight Jacob Neely Alan Ortiz Natalie Pearson Bailee Pfiffner Addie Primmer Savannah Ray Cameron Raymer Ethan Reda Carson Reed Hanah Rhoades Allison Robieson Grey Roesti Abigail Siri Maya Spears Nathan Taylor Benny Troxell Beth Warren Anna Winkel Natalie Yoder

S A V E T H E D AT E S

Olivet’s School of Music proudly presents two holiday traditions

MESSIAH

S OUN DS O F THE S EAS ON

SAT., NOV. 21, AT 7 PM

FRI., DEC. 4, AT 7 PM SAT., DEC. 5, AT 2 PM

HA NDEL’S

Emmanuel

in Hawkins Centennial Chapel

FOR TICKETS, VISIT

OLIVET.EDU/EVENTS

You can fuel creativity and foster excellence by sponsoring the Fine Arts at Olivet so that the education and programming continues to benefit our graduates and our communities. 18

NEW FOR 2026

AN OLIVET COLLECTIBLE

SEVENTH IN THE SERIES

PURCHASE YOUR OLIVET

Christmas Ornament WITH A NEW $50 DONATION TO THE OLIVET FUND WHICH SUPPORTS STUDENT SCHOLARSHIPS.

MANUFACTURED BY THE CREATORS OF THE OFFICIAL WHITE HOUSE CHRISTMAS ORNAMENT Visit Olivet.edu/Ornament or scan the code.

8 a.m. | Sunday, October 25 | Chalfant Hall

“O” AWARDS

Since 1957, Olivet Nazarene University’s Alumni Association has honored outstanding alumni through the presentation of the “O” Awards at the annual fall Homecoming celebration.

2026 Ministerial “O” Award

REV. PHIL KIZZEE ’83 When Phil Kizzee first stepped onto the Olivet Nazarene University campus, he was a high school student coming to attend a Tiger basketball camp. Today, Phil is in his 40th year of full‑time ministry and serving as an adjunct professor in Olivet’s School of Theology and Christian Ministry. Along the way, God has surprised him with many blessings and much learning. Phil accepted Christ as his personal Savior when he was 11 years old. Growing up in a Nazarene parsonage in Ohio, he accepted God’s call to ministry when he was a senior in high school. Much of what he learned about serving the Lord came from watching his dad, Wendell ’55, as a pastor for more than 45 years and his mom, Vivian (Bates), lead in the worship and music ministry. When Phil enrolled at Olivet, he knew only two students who were already on campus. One of them introduced him to her roommate, Brenda Frey, during his first week on campus. Phil and Brenda began their lifelong commitment to each other and the Lord. “As a freshman, I auditioned for Orpheus Choir and was accepted,” Phil recalls. “I didn’t realize the impact this would make on my life. One of my favorite 20

memories is singing with Orpheus Choir at Bill Gaither’s Praise Gathering with major Christian artists of the day.” During his years as a Christian Education and Church Music major, Phil verifies that he learned a lot in the classroom. He credits Olivet’s professors and staff for all the learning that took place for him beyond the classroom. Because of their mentoring and direction, he learned how to serve more effectively, lead and live. He learned and practiced leadership skills through his involvement with Orpheus Choir and student government. “At Olivet, I learned to strive for quality and excellence,” he says. “I learned that depth of relationships is critical. Because of those who poured so much into me when I was a student, I do my best to connect with others and pour God’s love into them.” Phil went on to earn his Master of Divinity degree from Nazarene Theological Seminary. He was ordained as an elder by the Church of the Nazarene in 1990. In his career, he has served on staff at four Nazarene congregations — with roles including worship/music, administration and education — serving with two congregations over the last 35 years. “God continues to bless me with opportunities to pastor and serve alongside people from all walks of life,” he says. “That has been one of my life’s greatest privileges.” Phil has served as executive pastor

A lay recipient and a ministerial recipient are chosen from nominations submitted to the Alumni Board. Qualified individuals represent the ideals of the University and have distinguished themselves in their professional fields.

to Susan (Fleming) ’07; Austin ’09, who is married to Elizabeth (Voss) ’10; and grandparents of eight grandchildren. Phil’s younger sister, Joy (Kizzee) DeVries ’85, is also an Olivet alumna, along with nine of his nieces and nephews. An avid football fan (Cleveland Browns, The Ohio State Buckeyes), Phil has coached high school and youth football. He and Brenda enjoy taking road trips together and visiting friends and family. Phil continues to see the impact of Olivet and its mission in the lives of students and alumni. “I’m seeing students I have in class who really understand what ‘Education With a Christian Purpose’ means,” he says. “I’m encouraged to see grads, both recent and more seasoned, leading strong and purposeful lives, living out the vision of their Olivet education.” ■

at Chicago First Church of the Nazarene in Lemont, Illinois, since 2014. His responsibilities include staff and vision development, finance, business and administrative operations, plus pastoral work. He was staff lead for two major building renovations and several facility updates. Phil is currently a member of the Finance and Properties Board of the Church of the Nazarene’s Chicago Central District. He served as an Olivet trustee from 2021 to 2024. In 2024, Phil began teaching “Minister as Leader and Administrator” in Olivet’s School of Theology and Christian Ministry. “I want students who are going into ministry to better understand the operational side of ministry,” he says. “That’s what is going to take up much of their time each week as a pastor.” Phil and Brenda married in 1983. They are the parents of Andy ’07, who is married

2026 Lay “O” Award

SHERRY (FORTADO) SHERWOOD ’91 Sherry Sherwood has consistently experienced answered prayer through her relationship with Olivet Nazarene University. From God’s provision to attend ONU in 1987 to the creative partnership with Olivet that is changing the trajectory of many lives in this community, Sherry continues to

see how God is using Olivet in her life. As a young child, Sherry learned about Jesus through the persistent love of her neighbors, Ron and Donna Pate. They invited her family to the Nazarene church in Bloomington, Indiana. After some resistance, Larry and Dora Fortado gave their lives to Jesus during a revival led by Dr. Ted Lee of Olivet. This was just the beginning of Olivet’s influence on Sherry’s life. Years later, Sherry became the first member of her family to attend a Nazarene university and the first woman in her family continued, next page

“O” AWARDS Sherry Sherwood, continued to earn a bachelor’s degree. At the Nazarene Youth Conference in 1987, Sherry surrendered to God’s call into full-time ministry. “I spent the next two years seeking clarity for that calling,” Sherry says. “With the support and spiritual counsel of my professors, I switched my focus from Accounting to Psychology. Feeling the support of the Olivet community, I grew in confidence while a student and enjoyed getting involved on campus.” Because of the impact Olivet had on Sherry, she was given the opportunity to make an impact while at Olivet. Some of the highlights of her senior year include serving as class president, her return to Williams Hall as a Resident Assistant, and the honor of being the 1991 recipient of the Maggie Sloan Crawford Award. “Some of my favorite memories at Olivet were spent around a table in Ludwig or gathered with friends in the dorm,” Sherry recalls. “Olivet will always hold a special place in my heart because this is where I fell in love with my NWIL District friend, Scott Sherwood. And this is where I watched all three of our girls thrive as each wrote her own Olivet story.” Sherry went on to earn her Master of Social Work (MSW) degree at the University of Iowa. In 1994, she began her clinical counseling career in Kansas City at The LightHouse, a home for teen girls and women in unplanned pregnancies. She had found God’s calling on her life — to come alongside women on their pregnancy journey. In 2004, Sherry became the Director of the Pregnancy Resource Center in Bloomington, Illinois. Five years later, she was appointed as CEO of Living

Alternatives Pregnancy Resource Center (LAPRC), a faith-based non-profit with 12 clinics and 3 residential homes. Under her leadership, the ministry converted to a medical platform, adding pregnancy testing, ultrasound scans and other medical services. She began her Doctor of Strategic Leadership (D.S.L.) degree program at Liberty University in 2021. In 2022, President Gregg Chenoweth of Olivet reached out to Sherry about ways Olivet could assist LAPRC. Olivet donated the use of one of its smaller apartment buildings, and Birchwood Apartments was opened to help pregnant women plan for a different future. Over the last four years, student groups, area churches and Olivet faculty have also become involved. To create accountability, Sherry began to blog her annual journey through the Scriptures. “My Morning Coffee” is now a daily devotional read in over 100 countries each year. With Biblical truth, Sherry openly shares about her own life experiences. This includes her journey from an infertility diagnosis to the healing that has allowed her to experience motherhood and now grandchildren. She is also a photo-hobbyist and enjoys traveling whenever she can. Her favorite vacations involve a beach, a good book and her family. Sherry and Scott Sherwood ’92 were married in 1991. They live in Overland Park, Kansas, where Scott is the lead pastor at Kansas City First Church of the Nazarene. The Lord has blessed them with a growing family: Elizabeth Banchi ’19 MD and her husband, Chance, expecting a son; Madeira Hazelwood ’21 CPA and her husband, Bradley ’19, and their daughter, Sadie; Brooke Rienow ’22 and her husband, JD ’23, and their daughter, Hallie. ■

8 a.m. | Sunday, October 25 | Chalfant Hall

PRESIDENT’S PRAYER BREAKFAST

Order of Service C A L L TO W O R S H I P W I T H O R P H E U S C H O I R . . . . . . . . Dr. Jeff Bell ’81 Director, Professor of Music W E LC O M E A N D P R AY E R . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Lisa (Schnicker) Garvin ’90 President of the Olivet Alumni Association T E S T I M O N I E S . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sherry (Fortado) Sherwood ’91 2026 Lay “O” Award Recipient Rev. Phil Kizzee ’83 2026 Ministerial “O” Award Recipient P R AY E R T I M E . . . . . . . . . Dr. Gregg ’90 and Tammy (Salyer) Chenoweth ’89 University President and First Lady C O N G R E G AT I O N A L S I N G I N G W I T H C H A P E L B A N D B E N E D I C T I O N A N D P R AY E R . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ryan Green University Chaplain Homecoming Church Service begins at 10:30 a.m. at College Church University Avenue 23

Planning a Legacy of Hope Estate planning empowers you to protect what matters most — your future, that of your

loved ones, and the causes close to your heart. Olivet Nazarene University’s team has the legacy giving expertise to help you discover tax-smart strategies to support Olivet while maximizing personal benefits. We’re here to ensure your estate plan reflects your values and protects what matters most.

Let’s have a conversation!

Contact Walter “Woody” Webb, Director of Planned and Estate Giving: 815-939-5171 or development@olivet.edu. Olivet partners with PhilanthroCorp, a trusted organization that offers free, personalized estate planning guidance. Their team will walk you through your options and help you take the next step with confidence. Contact PhilanthroCorp directly and confidentially at 800-876-7958 — 24 and be sure to mention Olivet. 24

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There are nearly 700 students involved in intercollegiate athletics at ONU. Tiger Champions Club provides a unique opportunity for alumni, parents and friends to partner with our sports teams and advance their tradition of excellence. Join the club at: olivet.edu/tigerchampions

OLIVET.EDU

ADVANCE your CAREER Olivet Nazarene University graduate degrees and certificates offer more than advancement; they offer real career development. Areas of study include nursing, business, education, ministry and ethical leadership — all of which keep Olivet students centered on purpose. We offer more than 20 convenient and affordable programs and degree opportunities. Students can choose from the online M.O.L., M.S.N., RN-B.S.N., RN-M.S.N., Ed.D., M.A.E., FNP, M.Div. or the M.A. — and some can be completed in as little as one year.

APPLY TODAY!

Olivet.edu/Academics/Graduate-Programs

OLIVET IN THE FAMILY Whether you’re a parent, grandparent, extended family member, sibling or guardian, we’re here for you.

Welcome to the Olivet community!

Discover ways to keep up with your student and encourage them throughout their academic, social and spiritual opportunities. For regular news and event information, along with receiving the bi-monthly newsletter delivered directly to your email, register for the Parent and Family Network.

LOOKING FOR NEW ADVENTURES? WE’LL TAKE YOU THERE!

Tour with alumni and friends of Olivet to these unforgettable U.S. destinations. DEC 10–13

Ark Encounter and Creation Museum

MAY 10–15

Amish Country, Pennsylvania: Gettysburg, Hershey

OCT 2027

Sedona and the Grand Canyon

Check out all of our trips at Olivet.edu/ TravelWithOlivet

Olivet.edu/Events

2026–2027

UPCOMING OLIVET EVENTS

28 OCT

29,30,31 OCT

9 NOV

Presented to Dr. Suzanne Bell 10 AM • CENTENNIAL CHAPEL

THU & FRI, 7 PM• SAT, 2 & 7 PM SIMS BLACK BOX THEATRE

7 PM • CENTENNIAL CHAPEL

MAGGIE SLOAN CRAWFORD AWARD

A GREEN ROOM THEATRE CO. PRODUCTION

ORGAN RECITAL: CHRISTOPHER ARP

21 NOV

20 NOV

THE CHRISTMAS STAR PLANETARIUM SHOW

4&5 DEC

HANDEL’S MESSIAH

7 PM • CENTENNIAL CHAPEL

6 & 7:30 PM• STRICKLER PLANETARIUM

SOUNDS OF THE SEASON: EMMANUEL

FRI 7P • SAT 2P • CENTENNIAL

FEBRUARY 18–20, 2027

MAY 7–8, 2027

Golf registration now open

Commencement Weekend

Play up to 90 holes as part of the Watson Memorial Golf Series to raise scholarship funds. For more information, contact Jeff Domagalski at 815-928-5455

Celebrating our graduates with diplomas, awards, pinnings, inductions and commissionings during this annual two-day event on Friday and Saturday

OLIVET OLIVET II NN VV II TAT T A T II OO NN AA LL T TH HE E 22 42 N T DH AANNNNU UA LA L

__ REGISTER AS A FOURSOME O R I N D__ IVIDUAL

Olivet.edu/Events

Olivet.edu/Events 28

The Office of Alumni Relations and Olivet’s Alumni Board welcome you to Homecoming 2026 OFFICE OF ALUMNI & UNIVERSITY RELATIONS 815-939-5258 • Alumni@Olivet.edu Olivet.edu/Alumni-Friends

Susan (Hendley) Wolff ’94 Associate Vice President for Institutional Advancement Erika Moeschke ’12 Senior Director of Alumni Relations & University Advancement

Alyssa Phelps ’21 Associate Director of University Relations & Engagement

Hannah (Iverson) Priest ’21 Associate Director of Alumni & University Relations

ALUMNI BOARD OF DIRECTORS, 2026–2027 Dr. Gregg Chenoweth ’90 University President

Spencer Cook ’11 Off Region

Dr. Brian D. Allen ’82 Vice President for Institutional Advancement

LaMorris Crawford ’06 Off Region

Erika Moeschke ’12 Senior Director of Alumni Relations & University Advancement Susan (Hendley) Wolff ’94 Associate Vice President for Institutional Advancement Lisa (Schnicker) Garvin ’90 Alumni Association President Ryan Walker ’06 Alumni Association Vice President Dr. Chris Peal ’86 Secretary and Historian Rev. Joel Heald ’08 Ministerial Trustee Representative Dr. Jim Forshee ’79 Lay Trustee Representative Curtis Besco ’95 Off Region

Morgan (Connor) Manahan ’24 Alumni & University Relations Manager

Karen (Abbott) Bontrager ’86 Educational Region Joel Christie ’99 Off Region

Eric Johnson ’94 Off Region Alison (Krock) Kelley ’01 Educational Region Hannah (Hockemeyer) Kelly ’17 Educational Region Beth (Johnson) Long ’06 Educational Region Matthew Lyle ’09 Off Region Madison (Leeseberg) McNulty ’14 Off Region Addison Newell ’15 Educational Region Randy Parpart ’94 Educational Region Michael Reddy Jr. ’90 Educational Region Dr. Robert Taylor ’77 Educational Region Missy (Luginbill) Veeck ’95 Off Region Dr. Amy (Butler) Williams ’90 Off Region

Campus Map

HOSPITALITY CENTER If you need assistance during Homecoming: • VISIT the Hospitality Center in the Perry Center lobby, or

• CALL 815-939-5258.

STAY CONNECTED! Our Facebook, Instagram and X pages offer daily information and ways to stay in touch.

Our online platform OlivetConnect.com will help you network and connect with fellow alumni. 31

Facebook.com/OlivetNazareneUniversity Instagram.com/OlivetNazarene Instagram.com/LifeAtOlivet X.com/OlivetNazarene

STEM WITH PURPOSE

At Olivet Nazarene University, we believe science and faith are complementary. In the Walker School of STEM, students explore how they intersect. Prepared for careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics, Olivet graduates are grounded not only in rigorous professional training but in a distinctly Christian worldview.

OLIVE T.E D U

JOIN US AGAIN

IN 2027

when we celebrate the Classes of 2022, 2017, 2012, 2007, 2002, 1997, 1996, 1987, 1982, 1977, and Purple & Gold Grads before 1977

October 21–24 • Olivet.edu/HC