Our many traditions are a special part of the Olivet experience. These time-honored activities and events become a part of us. They define us as Olivetians. What's more, they are a ton of fun!
Olivet students enjoy a wide variety of traditions and special days throughout the year, including:
Fall Semester
Jump Start (New Student Conference) — Hosted by The Center for Student Success, this three-day conference is designed to introduce new students to college life — and life at Olivet. Highlights include a panel of current Olivet students; a Sunday night small group event; challenging messages from Dr. Bowling and leadership expert Dr. Tim Elmore; door prizes, giveaways, food and much more.
Ollies Follies — Annual class competitions held on the first two weekends of the fall semester. The first weekend includes athletic competition in various sports such as softball, sand volleyball, frisbee football, and flag football, as well as relay games to raise morale and the competitive spirits of all students. The second weekend highlights student talent through the annual variety show.
Fall Revival — A time of spiritual renewal is scheduled each semester. A special speaker and musician lead worship in morning chapel and evening services.
Broadway Revue — This annual student-led production, hosted by Green Room, is an evening filled with Broadway show tunes and musical selections from past and present.
Give Your Life Away Week — Chapels, special events and a missions fair provide students with many opportunities to put their faith into action and become global-minded Christians.
Orpheus Variety Show — In one of the most anticipated weekend events of the fall semester, the choir puts on their own skit and talent show for the campus.
Costume Fest — At the height of the fall season, a costume party is hosted by ASC’s Social Committee. The party features a costume contest, live jazz music and food. This annual event has become one of the most popular all-school events.
Homecoming — Students, alumni, faculty, staff and guests enjoy a weekend full of exciting events, including sports games, coronation, concerts, chapel, powder-puff football, 5K run, class reunions, open houses and social gatherings.
Fall Play — ONU Department of Communication productions feature ONU students from a variety of majors performing classic stage plays under the direction of Professor Jerry Cohagan.
Handel’s Messiah — Held in Centennial Chapel, this annual presentation by the Department of Music features the University Orchestra, combined choirs, and student and guest soloists.
Sounds of the Season — A cozy, Christmas concert featuring favorite Christmas selections by the vocal and instrumental ensembles of the Department of Music, this is a highlight of the Christmas season that you won’t want to miss!
Late Night Study Break — Sponsored by Sodexo Dining Services and Residential Life, the Christmas-themed event provides holiday snacks, games and other temporary diversions from your study schedule!
Spring Semester
Winter Revival — A time of spiritual renewal is scheduled each semester. A special speaker and musician lead worship in morning chapel and evening services.
Mr. ONU — Male competitors are chosen by their respective classes to run the creative skit and talent gauntlet with the goal of claiming the crown of Mr. ONU. Hosted by ASC’s Women’s Residential Life.
Band Winter Showcase — Have you ever heard of Blue Man Group, Stomp or Blast? This is so much better! Don’t miss out on this high-energy stage performance by ONU student musicians.
Spring Musical — The Department of Music partners with the Department of Communication to bring Broadway or operatic productions to life on the Olivet stage.
Spring Play — Sponsored by Green Room, the spring play is directed by a student each year.
Night of Jazz — The Department of Music hosts the annual Night of Jazz, which features the ONU Jazz Band and a guest artist.
ONU’s Got Talent — A night celebrating diversity within the performing arts, hosted by the Multi-Ethnic Relations Club (MERC).
Senior Banquet — Seniors on campus are invited to their class banquet to celebrate their nearing graduation with friends.
Commencement Concert — The top performers from the Department of Music provide a final concert of the year.
Baccalaureate Service — A worship service for all graduates and their families, Baccalaureate includes music from Orpheus Choir and an inspiring message from Dr. Bowling.
Graduation — If weather permits, graduation takes place outdoors amidst the blossoming trees of May. Otherwise, the ceremony is held in the Betty and Kenneth Hawkins Centennial Chapel.
