With picture-perfect fall weather setting the scene, the campus of Olivet Nazarene University came alive as generations of Olivetians gathered for more than 50 exciting events during Homecoming & Family Weekend 2026.
Throughout the weekend, alumni, students, faculty, staff and friends came together to celebrate the traditions that make Olivet special. From department gatherings and campus visits with prospective students, to Tiger victories across the athletic competitions and opportunities to reconnect with old friends, the weekend was filled with moments that celebrated the past, embraced the present and looked toward the future of Olivet.
Festivities kicked off Thursday evening as members of the Alumni Board
served a late-night breakfast treat to students during the Throwback Thursday Student Pancake Feed. The event brought students together for food, fellowship and a fun start to the weekend’s celebrations.
On Friday morning, faculty, staff, students and guests gathered for a time of worship during the Homecoming Chapel service, celebrating God’s faithfulness throughout Olivet’s history. During the service, Sarah (Throneburg) Wollerman ’21/’22 MBA and Demetri Morris ’20 were recognized as the 2026 Young Alumni Award recipients. Both alumni shared testimonies of Olivet’s impact on their lives and reflected on God’s continued work through their careers, personal journeys and callings.
Following the service, festivities moved to the center of campus as Life at Olivet hosted Party in the Plaza. Students enjoyed fall treats and seasonal fun while student leaders passed out cider and donuts, creating a lively atmosphere for the campus community to enjoy together.
Friday evening brought excitement on the court as both the men’s and women’s basketball teams secured victories. Following the games, students and guests gathered in the Perry Center Fieldhouse for the 5th Quarter Fair, enjoying late-night activities, snacks and time together.
Saturday morning, alumni representing the classes of 1971, 1976, 1981, 1986, 1991, 1996, 2001, 2006, 2011, 2016 and 2021, along with Purple and Gold graduates, gathered for class reunions.
Saturday afternoon brought even more excitement, with an outdoor Family Fun Zone, food trucks and a special gathering honoring 50 years of ONU Football. Former Tiger football players came together to recognize the program’s legacy before the current team took the field against Judson University. The Tigers delivered an impressive 70–7 victory, marking the most points scored in a game since 2019 and adding another highlight to an exciting weekend of athletics.
Saturday evening, donors gathered for the annual President’s Dinner at Homecoming, where the University community honored their generosity and continued investment in Olivet’s mission.
The evening continued with a special concert hosted by the School of Music, Music from the American Songbook. Featuring a delightful program celebrating the American story through songs from stage and screen, the concert showcased the talents of alumni soloists and brought members of the Olivet community together for an evening of music and celebration.
Homecoming & Family Weekend concluded Sunday morning with the President’s Prayer Breakfast. Guests gathered for 
worship and reflection and heard from Lay “O” Award recipient Sherry Sherwood ’91 and Ministerial “O” Award recipient Rev. Phil Kizzee ’83. Both shared testimonies of how their lives and callings have been shaped by the people, experiences and mission of Olivet Nazarene University.
To close the weekend, First Lady Tammy (Salyer) Chenoweth ’89 joined student ministry leaders Chloe Ashcraft and Laney Glueck in leading a time of prayer and thanksgiving for the Olivet campus community. Guests prayed over specific requests submitted by students earlier in the week, offering a meaningful reminder of the University’s commitment to supporting one another through faith and prayer.
The Office of Alumni and University Relations looks forward to welcoming guests for next year’s celebration on October 21-24, 2027.
To learn more about upcoming events on campus, visit Olivet.edu/Events.
