Olivet Nazarene University
Bourbonnais, IL
Quick Facts
Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education
About Olivet Nazarene University
A Christian institution with a century-long legacy of growth and diverse academic excellence.
Olivet Nazarene University (ONU) stands as a vibrant Christian institution with a rich history dating back to 1907. What began as Miss Mary Nesbitt's Grammar School in Georgetown, Illinois, quickly evolved, embracing the Wesleyan-holiness tradition before being given to the Church of the Nazarene. Its journey has been marked by resilience, overcoming challenges like bankruptcy and a devastating fire, which led to its pivotal move in 1940 to its current Kankakee County campus, then renamed Olivet Nazarene College (ONC).
The university's transformation in recent decades under President John C. Bowling has been remarkable. Renamed Olivet Nazarene University in 1986, ONU has broadened its appeal, attracting a more diverse student body from various Christian denominations and embarking on significant construction projects to accommodate its expansion. This period of dynamic growth reflects its commitment to a broader vision and an inclusive Christian community.
Today, Olivet Nazarene University offers a comprehensive educational experience, structured across seven distinct academic units. These include the College of Arts and Sciences, McGraw School of Business, Martin D. Walker School of Engineering, School of Education, School of Life and Health Sciences, School of Theology and Christian Ministry, and the School of Graduate and Continuing Studies. This diverse academic landscape provides prospective students and their families with a wide array of programs designed for intellectual and spiritual growth within a supportive, expanding university environment.
Key Highlights
- ✦Traces its roots to 1907, beginning as Miss Mary Nesbitt's Grammar School.
- ✦Given to the Church of the Nazarene in 1912, inheriting one of the most populated Nazarene regions.
- ✦Moved to its current 42-acre campus in 1940, establishing Olivet Nazarene College.
- ✦Renamed Olivet Nazarene University (ONU) in 1986, reflecting its comprehensive university status.
- ✦Comprises seven distinct academic units, including schools for Business, Engineering, and Theology.
- ✦Successfully appealed to a more diverse set of students from different Christian denominations.
- ✦Underwent several construction projects, marking significant growth and expansion.
Timeline
Schools & Colleges
7 notable schools within Olivet Nazarene University
College of Arts and Sciences
Offers a broad range of programs in humanities, sciences, and social sciences.
McGraw School of Business
Focuses on developing business leaders and entrepreneurs.
Martin D. Walker School of Engineering
Provides comprehensive engineering education.
School of Education
Dedicated to preparing future educators and leaders.
School of Life and Health Sciences
Explores various fields related to biology, health, and wellness.
School of Theology and Christian Ministry
Prepares students for ministry and theological studies within a Christian framework.
School of Graduate and Continuing Studies
Offers advanced degrees and flexible learning options for adult learners.
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