Those who know me personally know that last fall I exited full-time pastoral ministry and resumed employment at my alma mater, Olivet Nazarene University, this time as Director of Church Partnerships for ONUplus. I’ve had many friends and family members ask me what this new program is all about. So here we go:

ONUplus is Olivet Nazarene University’s innovative initiative designed to expand educational opportunities and enhance the learning experience for students beyond the traditional classroom setting. I will explain the specifics of what ONUplus is all about in a minute, but a brief description would be that students take Olivet classes online, while also being connected to a local church or faith community that provides spiritual support and community. At first glance, the ONUplus initiative might seem like a big shift away from what Olivet has done well for so long. But having been a part of this program for nearly a year now, I am convinced more now than ever, that ONUplus is a continuation of the mission and motivation that has been a part of the Olivet story since day one.

The story of Olivet Nazarene University is closely tied to the history and values of the Church of the Nazarene. Looking at what motivated the early Nazarene church members who started and backed the institution helps us understand how ONUplus is deeply rooted in Olivet’s mission.

A Dedication to Holiness and Education

The Church of the Nazarene, which was founded in 1907, emerged from the Wesleyan-Holiness movement that focused on personal holiness and a strong commitment to living a life devoted to God. Education was seen as vital in fostering these values. Early Nazarene leaders believed that a Christian college would be crucial in offering a well-rounded education that merged academic rigor with spiritual development.

For these trailblazers, education wasn’t just about grades; it was about preparing individuals to live out their faith in all areas of life. They envisioned a place where students could expand their minds, deepen their faith, and gear up for lives of service and leadership within their communities and beyond.

Meeting a Growing Need

In the early 20th century, there was a rising need for institutions that could provide more than a secular education. Many parents and church leaders were worried that public universities did not provide the right environment for spiritual formation. They wanted an environment where Christian values would be upheld and where students could strengthen their faith while receiving a high-quality education.

This need for a faith-based educational setting was a major driving force behind the founding of Olivet Nazarene University. The founders aimed to establish a haven of learning that upheld the principles of the Church of the Nazarene and offered a safe space for spiritual and intellectual growth.

Emphasizing Community and Sacrifice

The early days of Olivet were marked by significant community involvement and personal sacrifices. The founding families and church members were devoted to the idea of creating a Christian college and were willing to invest their time, resources, and labor to make it happen. This collective effort showcased their strong faith and belief in the transformative power of Christian education.

Despite facing financial challenges and other hardships, these early supporters never wavered in their commitment. They believed that their investment in the college would yield lasting rewards for not just their generation, but for countless future generations of students.

A Focus on Service

Service was at the core of the early Nazarene movement, and this principle was central to the creation of Olivet Nazarene University. The founders wanted to equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to serve their communities effectively. Whether in ministry, education, healthcare, or other fields, graduates were expected to embody Christ’s love and service in the world.

Establishing Olivet was seen as a way to carry on this tradition of service. By offering a Christian education, the founders aimed to produce graduates who were not only academically prepared, but also spiritually equipped to make a positive impact in their communities and beyond.

The Olivet Story – A Video History

What is the Plus in ONUplus?

ONUplus embodies Olivet’s original spirit to provide an “Education with a Christian Purpose”. So let me share a bit more about ONUplus and what I’ve been up to as part of this team.

Flexible Learning Choices

Students can take advantage of a variety of online courses through ONUplus, giving them the freedom to pursue their educational goals on their own schedule. Whether juggling work, family, or other commitments, students can access top-notch education that works for them. These online courses are designed to be just as challenging and engaging as traditional classroom settings to ensure students receive a high-quality academic experience.

Personal Growth

ONUplus isn’t just about career and academic advancement; it also caters to those interested in personal growth. With all the elements of a liberal arts education, individuals can explore new interests on their journey to pursue their calling. This focus on personal growth aligns with Olivet’s mission to nurture a love of learning and self-development.

Easy Access and Support

ONUplus makes sure students can easily navigate and access the resources they need with its user-friendly platform design. Additionally, the platform offers robust support services including academic advising, financial aid assistance, and student success services to ensure students make the most of their educational experience.

Connects with Traditional Programs

ONUplus utilizes the same courses as the students in the university’s traditional programs, allowing students to shape their educational experience to meet their needs, whether that means the coursework is online, in-person, or a combination.

Building Community and Engagement

This is the most exciting area of ONUplus. Despite being online, ONUplus prioritizes community and engagement among students. The key to the ONUplus experience is the local site. So while the students coursework is online, a local church or faith-based organization creates an environment for these students to gather, study, worship, socialize, and serve. The students form a small group or cohort at their local site in which they not only engage with each other, but there are opportunities to connect with the students at the other ONUplus sites. This sense of community is key to maintaining the supportive, faith-enriching atmosphere that Olivet Nazarene University is known for.

---

I could go into a lot more detail, but I’ll wrap up with the idea that ONUplus demonstrates Olivet Nazarene University’s commitment to meeting the evolving needs of students and the community at large. By providing flexible, accessible, and diverse educational opportunities, ONUplus ensures that learners from all backgrounds can achieve their academic and professional goals. This innovative platform reflects Olivet’s dedication to offering education that serves a higher purpose, helping individuals grow intellectually, spiritually, and personally.

ONUplus is more than just an online education – it’s a comprehensive educational experience that embodies Olivet Nazarene University’s belief that education is a valuable part of a Christian’s faith development.

I plan on sharing some more posts from my experiences with ONUplus. The world is changing – Universities and churches can play a role in shaping how young adults are educated and discipled in this new world. I’m excited to be a part of this new program and want to share some of the ways I see God at work.

Subscribe

Sign up to receive Tanner’s writings via email and never miss a post.

---

Support