In the Faces of Olivet series, we share snapshots of the personal experiences and careers of some of our extraordinary students, faculty, staff and alumni. This article focuses on Lily Jarzabkowski, the newly elected student body president at Olivet Nazarene University.
Lily is a senior, studying political science and philosophy with a minor in legal studies. During her time at Olivet she has been involved in many activities around campus including playing with the University Orchestra, working for The Center for Law and Culture, and serving as the club leader of the Law and Politics Society. Lily has also served as a class representative and the executive officer for student relations within Olivet’s Associated Student Council (ASC). These positions allowed her to build relationships with people around campus and work closely with other student leaders.
In fact, the community at Olivet is what drew Lily to enroll at the University. For someone who is an enneagram two and identifies with the hospitable Mrs. Potts from Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, this is no surprise. She says, “There is an overwhelming support system of faculty and staff members that push their students toward success. In my experience, staff and students alike are oriented toward developing relationships. Whether you are sitting in a coffee shop, hammocking by Weber, or spending hours in a practice room, there is always an opportunity to make a new friend or catch up with an old friend.”
Lily found that studying at Olivet has developed her outlook on her ability to serve others through even the smallest of actions. “A common joke about the University is, ‘Once you go to Olivet, you will never open another door for yourself.’” She continues, “Hearing this joke always makes me laugh, but I also think about how true it is. A highlight of being a student at Olivet is not just the focus put toward excellent learning and professional development, but also the attention placed on growing closer to Christ and serving one another in kindness.”
Like many students, Lily anticipates being back on campus with her friends and the rest of the Olivet community this fall. She can’t wait to enjoy homemade guac from Isidros, movie nights with friends and meeting new people. She says, “If you see me around campus, please stop me and tell me your favorite pun. I love a well-placed pun.”
Although she will be busy preparing to go to law school following graduation, Lily is ready to fully invest in her senior year at Olivet. As she takes on her new role as student body president, her motivation is building relationships. She is particularly looking forward to continuing projects that were cut short due to an abbreviated spring semester of on-campus activities. She also hopes to facilitate deeper collaboration between different student leadership groups, including strengthening the relationship between Multiethnic Student Services and ASC.
“Olivet is truly a wonderful environment in order to sharpen your leadership skills,” Lily says. “I am thankful for the countless opportunities for students to lead within different departments and interest groups, and I am completely honored to serve in the position of student body president this year. I am excited to partner with and lead our class councils toward effective representation and advocacy for all students!”
To learn more about leadership opportunities within ASC and other campus clubs, organizations and ministries, contact the Office of Admissions at admissions@olivet.edu or 800-648-1463.
Published 6/5/20
HRI
