Olivet Nazarene University’s Homecoming and Family Weekend brought together alumni, family and friends for an annual weekend of celebration. This year, with over 50 events throughout the weekend, guests were able to enjoy timeless traditions, exciting athletic competitions and great food and fellowship with friends new and old.
The weekends festivities kicked off Thursday night with the Alumni Board serving a late-night breakfast treat to the student body in Ludwig Center at the Throwback Thursday Student Pancake Feed.
Friday morning, faculty, staff, students and guests gathered for a time of worship for the Homecoming Chapel. During the service, Alumni Award recipients Alyssa Franklin ’19 and Kolton Williford ’15 were recognized and gave testimony of their faith and the impact of greater Olivet community in their lives, career and their calling.
Following the service, the festivities were moved to the center of campus for the dedication of the new Allen Plaza – an expansion of the Decker Quad named in honor of Drs. Brian and Lynda Allen. This space, intentionally created for hospitality and community, was already providing meaningful moments throughout the weekend for many from the Student Spirit Day pop-up, the ONU marching band concert, coffee conversations and catch-ups and more.
That evening, following victories from both men’s and women’s basketball teams, guests moved to the Perry Center for the 5th Quarter Fair where guests of all ages enjoyed late night, fun, food and fellowship featuring the famous 54-foot ice cream bar.
On Saturday the classes of 2020, 2015, 2010, 2005, 2000, 1995, 1990, 1985, 1980, 1975 and Purple & Gold grads (graduates prior to 1975) gathered to celebrate their undergraduate reunions.
The afternoon included an outdoor family fun zone and food trucks before the Tiger football game against Judson. The Tigers took home a 53-7 win against the Eagles in front of a crowd of purple, gold and white.
The Bahr Soccer Facility was also officially dedicated with current and former players in attendance.
Saturday evening, Olivet’s School of Music joined Christian singer-songwriter, Meredith Andrews in Centennial Chapel for an evening of worship.
Throughout the weekend, there were several opportunities to take in other athletic competitions, shows at Strickler Planetarium and gather with reconnect with other department alumni.
The weekend’s events concluded on Sunday morning, with the President’s Prayer Breakfast. Guests in attendance enjoyed a time of worship and had the opportunity to hear from Lay “O” Award recipient Mel Sayes ’73, and Ministerial “O” Award recipient, Mark Holcomb ’81/’18 D.Div as they gave testimony of the ways their stories have been impacted by the people and mission of Olivet.
To conclude the event, First Lady Tammy (Salyer) Chenoweth ’89 and student ministry leaders Chloe Ashcraft and Laney Glueck hosted a time of prayer and thanksgiving for the campus community of Olivet Nazarene University.
For more information about campus events, visit olivet.edu/events.
