Olivet Nazarene University smoothly welcomed the student body back for the spring 2021 semester. Student athletes began moving back January 4, swiftly followed by student leaders and the rest of the student body. With great energy throughout, it was clear that everyone was ready to start the new semester.
Within the first few weeks of the semester, the University implemented a lot of exciting things, with many more to come in the coming months.
“The spring semester seems to have brought a heightened sense of excitement and expectation” says Director of Recreation Services, Matt Smith.
Safety First
After effectively navigating the fall semester and maintaining in-person classes until the very end, the faculty and staff continue to implement appropriate precautions and procedures so that life at Olivet can remain as vibrant as possible. One of the new procedures being implemented is weekly saliva testing for everyone on campus. In conducting these tests, Olivet hopes to catch signs of early cases so that they can keep positive case numbers down. Within the first two weeks of testing this proved to be an effective initiative.
“This is encouraging news for us both for now and the prospects of maintaining health throughout the semester.” says Dr. Dan Sharda, professor and chair of Biological Sciences at Olivet.
Masks, social distancing and maintaining a small circle will remain very important throughout the semester.
Classes Coming Together
The Associated Student Council (ASC) has created monthly events unique for each grade, specifically engineered to foster fun while keeping everyone safe. Class events that have already taken place included the freshman class pajama party, a junior class nerf war, and sophomore and senior coffee social.
“Despite the restrictions that COVID has brought, our staff and student leaders have done an incredible job of creating a fun environment while keeping safety at the forefront,” says junior class president, Natalie Cook.
Study, Hangout, Play!
The community atmosphere created through residential life, campus events, clubs, and student ministries are a crucial part of life at Olivet. Both Rec Services and ASC have continued to find creative ways to encourage students to fellowship with one another.
Building off the success of programming at The Plex during the fall semester, ASC and Rec Services developed REC CITY “neighborhoods” in Chalfant Hall and Perry Center.
These safe and fun environments provide students a place to study, hang out and play board games, work out, and spend time with friends.
Rec City is open to students Monday-Friday 9-10 a.m. and Saturday-Sunday 2-10 p.m.
Called to Be One
Spiritual life still remains a priority on campus. In the fall, student ministries adapted to follow mitigations and protocols set by both the state and university.
This semester, while many of the precautions remain the same, Olivet is excited to host weekly in person chapel services. Every Thursday at 9:30 a.m., Centennial Chapel will be open for 500 students to attend. The service will also be livestreamed.
This semester’s theme is “Called to Be One” and will feature Chaplain Mark Holcomb, class chapel services with Dr. Bowling, and renowned guest speakers.
Celebrating a Legacy
Throughout the semester, Olivet will celebrate the 30 years of leadership from University President Dr. John C. Bowling. To help commemorate the legacy he will be leave on campus, Life at Olivet has created fun ways for students to show their love through the “We Love Dr. B” appreciation station, as well as fun throwback Thursday social media posts.
For more information about life at Olivet, contact the Office of Admissions at admissions@olivet.edu or 800-648-1463.
Published 2/9/21
HRI
