The Summer 2025 issue of Olivet The Magazine, themed “Doing Something Good Together,” showcases the powerful symbiotic relationship between Olivet Nazarene University and the greater Kankakee County community.
This compelling issue explores how Olivet’s presence extends far beyond its 275-acre campus in Bourbonnais, creating ripples of positive impact throughout the region. From economic benefits to spiritual enrichment, the magazine reveals how the University and its surrounding communities have flourished together since the college moved to Bourbonnais, more than 85 years ago.
Highlights include an in-depth look at Olivet’s significant economic impact on Kankakee County, generating millions in value through employment, student spending and business partnerships. The issue features inspiring stories of alumni who’ve chosen to plant roots locally, including entrepreneurs, health care professionals and ministry leaders who are transforming their communities.
Readers will discover how local businesses partner with Olivet through innovative scholarship programs, including Riverside Healthcare’s new nursing scholarships, which support students who have the goal to “Start Local, Finish Local.” The magazine also spotlights community members like the Barry and Gayle Huebner, who’ve opened their home to Olivet students for nearly two decades, embodying the spirit of hospitality that defines the region.
Special features include coverage of Olivet’s thriving arts programs that enrich cultural life throughout Kankakee County; updates on graduate programs serving ministry professionals; and a glimpse into exciting international opportunities like the Oxford Scholar Semester.
University President Gregg Chenoweth’s message emphasizes how Olivet is “more than a university — [it’s] a true community of faith,” where diverse students unite around shared values and purpose. This issue beautifully illustrates how Olivet and its neighbors are indeed “better together” in creating a vibrant ecosystem where education, faith and community service intersect to transform lives.
Additional Highlights:
- Economic Impact Study Update: New 2025 findings reveal Olivet’s presence brought an estimated $21.2 million in value to Kankakee County through induced economic effects alone
- Campus Transformation: Major renovation of the iconic Decker Quadrangle includes new fire pits, hammock park and enhanced gathering spaces funded by generous alumni donors
- Record-Breaking Giving: The 2025 Day of Giving raised over $570,000 from 2,200+ donors in just 24 hours — surpassing all goals for this annual event
- Graduate Success Stories: Three ministry professionals share how Olivet’s graduate programs renewed their calling and transformed their leadership approaches
- Student Perseverance: Inspiring profiles of students who overcame significant challenges, including Ukrainian immigrant, Mary Balashova ’25 whose entire school balance was paid by an anonymous donor
- Fine Arts Excellence: Annual performances of Handel’s Messiah and Sounds of the Season draw thousands from the community, showcasing Olivet’s cultural contributions
- Athletic Outreach: The Inaugural Avante Mitchell Football Mega Camp brought 200+ high school athletes and 30 college programs to campus
- Oxford Scholar Semester: Students share transformative experiences studying at Oxford University through Olivet’s prestigious study-abroad program
- Strength & Hope Campaign: Community phase focuses on local scholarships, Chalfant Hall improvements and fine arts program support
Read the entire “Doing Something Good Together” issue and all previous magazines here.
