Olivet Nazarene University Head Football Coach Recognized by NFL’s Black College Football Hall of Fame

Mitchell Selected for Prestigious Ozzie Newsome GM Forum and Quarterback Coaching Summit
Adam Asher headshot

Adam Asher

June 18, 2025 Athletics

ONU Head Coach Avante Mitchell talks with football players in the locker room. Coach Mitchell was selected by the Black College Football Hall of Fame for the Ozzie Newsome GM Forum and Quarterback Coaching Summit

Olivet Nazarene University Head Football Coach Avante Mitchell has been recognized by the National Football League’s Black College Football Hall of Fame and selected to participate in the exclusive Ozzie Newsome General Manager Forum and Quarterback Coaching Summit.

This honor places Mitchell among the most promising coaches on the offensive side of the game.ONU Head Coach Avante Mitchell, selected by the Black College Football Hall of Fame, cheers on his team during football practice.

“This recognition speaks to Coach Mitchell’s exceptional leadership and his potential to impact football at the highest levels,” said Justin Glenn, Olivet Nazarene University Athletic Director. “We’re incredibly proud to see him selected for this prestigious opportunity.”

The Ozzie Newsome GM Forum was established in 2021 to connect current and aspiring football personnel executives. Named after the legendary Baltimore Ravens executive and Hall of Fame tight end, the forum provides a platform to identify, educate, and prepare football personnel for advancement in their careers.

During the two-day summit, Mitchell will have the opportunity to build relationships with NFL executives, gain personal insights, and be exposed to emerging trends and innovative practices used by football industry leaders. The program focuses on game administration, offensive philosophy implementation, and player development strategies.

The Black College Football Hall of Fame, which partners with the NFL on this initiative, is dedicated to recognizing, elevating and providing opportunities for minority coaching candidates and aspiring football personnel executives. The organization assists participants in preparing for roles as head coaches, offensive coordinators, quarterback coaches, offensive assistants and club executives.

“The summit is part of ongoing efforts to break mobility barriers, establish a cultural norm of opportunity for all and an unwavering commitment to identifying and developing the most talented workforce in football,” according to the NFL’s program description.

Mitchell’s selection for this elite program highlights his growing reputation in collegiate football and among the coaching ranks. The experience will provide valuable insights and connections that will benefit both his personal career development and the continued growth of Olivet Nazarene University’s football program.

The recognition underscores Olivet’s commitment to excellence in athletics and the caliber of leadership within the university’s athletic department.

For more information about Olivet Nazarene Unniversity Athletics, click here.

Adam Asher headshot

Adam Asher

Adam Asher ’01/MOL ’07 is a Partner and Managing Director with 989 Group. Adam lives in Manteno, IL with his wife Kristin ’05 and sons David and Lincoln.

Student on main campus wearing pink sweater and holding water bottle.

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