Olivet Nazarene University has announced that Luke Ward has been named the university’s next Athletics Director. Ward will officially begin his new role on October 1, 2026.
For Ward, the appointment represents a return to the university that helped shape him as a student, coach, and leader.
“Luke is an Olivetian. He was shaped by this place and knows what it takes to make ONU special,” said Dr. Jason Stephens, Vice President for Student Development. “He also brings meaningful experience from Trinity International, Oral Roberts and Indiana Wesleyan to this role. He spent over a decade as a head coach from NAIA to D1 level; but also had administrative experiences that can help lead our athletic department.”
Ward graduated from Olivet Nazarene in 2009 with a bachelor’s degree in K–12 Physical Education and was a four-year starter on the university’s men’s club volleyball team. He later returned to ONU as an assistant volleyball coach from 2012–15, helping the Tigers reach three consecutive Chicagoland Collegiate Athletic Conference tournaments, including the 2014 championship match and a berth in the NAIA Tournament.
Following his time at Olivet, Ward spent eight years at Trinity International University, where he served as head women’s volleyball coach and later head men’s volleyball coach. During his tenure, he transformed the women’s program, leading the Trojans from three wins in his first season to a 30–9 record and an NCCAA national championship in 2022. That same year, Ward was named the AVCA National Coach of the Year. He also served as Acting Director of Athletics at Trinity, gaining valuable experience in athletic administration.
Ward then spent two seasons as head women’s volleyball coach at Oral Roberts University before joining Indiana Wesleyan University in 2025 as Associate Athletic Director for Facilities & Recreation. His administrative experience has included facilities and recreation, program development, student-athlete support, and the broader operation of collegiate athletics.
“Olivet has been an important part of my story.” Ward said. “From being a student and beginning my coaching career here to meeting my wife and building a life shaped by the relationships and experiences I had at ONU. To have the opportunity to return and serve this University in this capacity is incredibly meaningful.”
Ward’s experience also includes owning and directing First Contact Volleyball Club in Bourbonnais, where he oversaw coaches and athletes while emphasizing character development and athletic excellence. He holds a master’s degree in Coaching and Athletic Administration from Concordia University Irvine.
“Luke understands that collegiate athletics at Olivet is about much more than competition,” Stephens said. “He knows we are on a mission of Winning Championships and Developing Champions. Luke brings a deep understanding of discipleship, development and support to his teams. I am excited to see Tiger Athletics thrive under his leadership!”
Ward and his wife, Erin, have four children. The family will relocate from Tulsa, Oklahoma, to Bourbonnais in the coming weeks.
As Director of Athletics, Ward will provide leadership for Olivet Nazarene’s 22 varsity sports and the university’s broader intercollegiate athletics program. He succeeds Justin Glenn, who recently accepted a position at Arizona Christian University.
For more information about the athletics program, visit ONUtigers.com
To view all Tiger Athletics news, click here.
— Republished from ONU Athletics 8/31/2026 —
