50 years after their own graduation, 40 members of the Class of 1974 returned to the campus of Olivet Nazarene University. A tradition spanning 25 years, Olivet annually welcomes the 50-year reunion class for a weekend of nostalgia, fellowship and celebration during the University’s commencement activities.
The weekend’s events, hosted by Olivet’s Office of Alumni and University Relations began on Friday, May 10 with a reunion dinner. Attendees from the class were greeted by Senior Director of Alumni and University Relations, Erika Moeschke ’12/’19 MBA.
“Olivet has one of the most important missions of any college campus in the nation: ‘Education with a Christian Purpose.’ This mission is what binds us together as alumni,” Moeschke said. “That was our mission 50 years ago and it is the same today.”
Following Moeschke’s remarks to the class, the group welcomed Isabella Qualls ’24, a member of the graduating class whose Olivet story was deeply impacted by the generosity of those who donated to the class of 1974/1975 Jim Johnson Scholarship.
“I thank you for investing in my life and my future so that I can go out and invest in the lives and futures of others as we all continue to build God’s Kingdom together,” Qualls stated.
The 111th Commencement Ceremony on Saturday morning was a milestone moment as the Class of ’74 donned their regalia and ushered in the next generation of Olivet alumni, the graduating Class of 2024. Class representative Harvey Gifford delivered a word of encouragement and blessing to the graduates:
“[Class of] 2024, there is greatness in you,” he said. “We are counting on you to make positive change in a rapidly changing world…practice integrity, practice compassion in everything you do. You see, doing the right thing is timeless; it’s never out of style…We pray that every member of the class of 2024 will always give your utmost for His highest in all your actions and endeavors. The Class of 1974 wishes you peace.”
The Class of 1974 will be back on campus during Olivet’s Homecoming and Family Weekend, October 25-27 for their 50-year reunion.
