An “Endowed Chair” is the name given to a position in the university which is made possible through a generous financial gift, invested in order to provide ongoing financial support for the work of that person, and for the sake of a particular area of study.
The Chair
The Reverend Dr. Fay Quanstrom Endowed Chair in Pastoral Ministry at Olivet Nazarene University was established in 2011 through a generous gift from Dr. Fay and Dr. Walter Quanstrom. The purpose of this particular gift is to provide support to a person who is engaged in preparing both women and men to follow God’s call into ministry with special emphasis on the training and encouraging of women in ministry.
Upon recommendation by the Dean of the School of Theology and Christian Ministry, the President of the University, in consultation with the Vice President for Academic Affairs, will appoint a faculty member as the recipient of the position for a period of two years.
Criteria
The criteria for selection includes a demonstrated interest in the preparation of men and women for pastoral ministry along with:
- A record of strong and effective teaching
- Evidence of scholarly activities in a field of study that enhances the role of pastoral ministry
- Active participation in a local congregation
- Continuing record of academic and institutional citizenship
- Clear support for the mission and ministry of Olivet Nazarene University
Dr. Fay Quanstrom
Fay grew up on a farm in eastern North Dakota, the oldest of six children. She made an early commitment to Christ during Vacation Bible School. She is a graduate of Southern Nazarene University, where she met and married Walter Quanstrom.
She earned a master’s and a doctorate degree at Northern Baptist Seminary. Ordained in the United Church of Christ, she has served in pastoral ministry for many years. Her career includes service as a Visiting Minister at Westminster Central Hall in London, England. She was also an adjunct professor in Olivet’s School of Theology and Christian Ministry.
Dr. Walter R. “Wally” Quanstrom
Walter was born in Gary, Indiana. He holds a bachelor’s degree from Southern Nazarene University and is a recipient of its Centennial Medal to recognize outstanding graduates. He also holds a doctorate degree from the University of Oklahoma. In addition, he is a graduate of Northwestern University’s Executive Development Program and Harvard Business School’s Advanced Management Program.
He has served as a professor at Olivet, and as a professor and division chair at Northwestern Nazarene University. During his long, successful career with Standard Oil Company (later Amoco Corporation), he rose to vice president positions. He has been recognized as one of the company’s top 35 executives. At Northwestern University’s Kellogg Graduate School of Management, he developed and taught an elective M.B.A. course in environmental management.