We recently sat down with Dan Ferris, Executive Director of ONU PLUS — an innovative approach to higher education across the Midwest — to hear his thoughts on an exciting day in Indiana.
“What’s happening at ONU’s Anderson, Indiana, site perfectly captures the vision of ONU PLUS,” Dan shared. “Education is extending beyond classrooms and into meaningful community engagement, reflecting the DNA of the church.”
Dan’s words would soon come alive before our eyes. Jackson Thornhill ’20/’22 MBA, representing ONU’s marketing team, joined Dan for an on-site visit and relates his firsthand experience with ONU PLUS.
As I pulled into the packed parking lot that Wednesday morning, I had no idea I was about to witness the full impact of ONU PLUS in action. The program I’d heard mentioned in conversations was clearly flourishing in ways I couldn’t have imagined.
Stepping through the doors of Anderson First Church of the Nazarene, we were immediately swept up in a whirlwind of activity orchestrated by staff, ONU PLUS students and many volunteers. The building pulsed with energy — people laughing, talking and moving with purpose — while uplifting Christian music filled the café area. Some gathered around tables in animated conversation while others focused intently on laptop screens. The rich aroma of fresh coffee created an instantly welcoming atmosphere for learning and connection.
Ashley Dagostino, the ONU PLUS site director, graciously offered to show us around despite her busy schedule. “We’re proud of how our students integrate their education with hands-on ministry experience,” she explained, leading us briskly through various areas of the building.
Throughout our tour, ONU PLUS students were visibly leading and serving in multiple capacities. We glimpsed one student working diligently in the daycare area. Peeking into the youth room, we saw another ONU PLUS participant leading a sizeable group in heartfelt prayer. Education is meeting real-world application in every program.
At 11 a.m. sharp, chapel began with Ashley enthusiastically promoting the ONU PLUS program and highlighting educational opportunities. “ONU PLUS isn’t just about earning a degree,” she emphasized to the gathered crowd. “It’s about developing servant leaders who make immediate impacts in their communities while they study.” 
The worship that followed was led by Caleb, an ONU PLUS student whose academic journey clearly complemented his ministry skills. The service concluded with an inspiring message from Pastor Kevin Jack — shared via a pre-recorded segment from ONU’s campus chapel program — demonstrating the seamless connection between Olivet Nazarene University’s main campus in Bourbonnais, Illinois, and the satellite ONU PLUS locations.
After chapel, our exploration continued as Ashley showed us the dedicated ONU PLUS areas where students gather for virtual meetings, focused study time and collaborative projects. These spaces showcase how the program creates supportive learning environments within community settings.
“ONU PLUS students don’t have to wait until graduation to apply what they’re learning,” Dan said. “They’re serving in children’s ministry, youth leadership, administrative support and worship teams — all while completing their coursework.”
Throughout the church building and community center, ONU PLUS students work alongside church volunteers in applying classroom theories to practical ministry situations. From coordinating programs for the homeschool community to supporting specialized ministries for young mothers, these students are gaining invaluable experience that traditional education simply doesn’t provide.
As the day progressed, we were increasingly convinced that this educational program is creating a unique model where students can immediately implement their learning in meaningful community engagement. By launching a mid-week chapel time for ONU PLUS students, Anderson First Church has also found a whole new way to reach their neighborhood. Their Wednesday homeschool ministry has grown to welcome more than 200 people each week.
Walking back to my car, I realized I’d witnessed more than just an impressive ministry program. I’d seen the ONU PLUS vision fully realized — education transformed through immediate application, students developing as leaders while still in school, and communities being served by the next generation of ministry professionals.
For more information about the ONU PLUS program and how you can advance Christian Higher Education while making an immediate impact in local ministry, visit https://www.olivet.edu/admissions/onu-plus/ or reach out directly to Dan Ferris at dvferris@olivet.edu.
