OU Marks New Chapter with Convocations at Multiple Growing Campuses

September 25, 2025

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Olivet University officially launched the 2025–2026 academic year with convocation ceremonies held across its campuses in San Francisco, St. Louis, and Orlando. These gatherings brought together students, faculty, local community leaders, and ministry partners to dedicate the new academic season to the Lord through worship, prayer, and reflection.

Each ceremony reflected the heart of Olivet’s mission: to raise servant-leaders who are grounded in Scripture, led by the Spirit, and equipped to advance God’s Kingdom through scholarship and service.

To demonstrate their wholehearted support for the university community, Dr. Jonathan Park, President of Olivet University, and Dr. Nathanael Tran, Chairman of the Board of Trustees, personally traveled to each campus and participated in the convocations. Their presence encouraged students and faculty alike, reinforcing the sense of unity and shared mission across all campuses.

A special highlight of this year’s convocation season was the attendance of Dr. Randall Bell, Director Emeritus of the Commission on Accreditation of the Association for Biblical Higher Education (ABHE), who joined the Orlando campus ceremony. Dr. Bell’s heartfelt benediction served as a powerful reminder of the university’s calling and legacy, and his presence was received as a sign of renewed hope and momentum.

At the San Francisco campus, distinguished faculty members — Dr. Merrill Smoak, Dr. Tom Cowley, Dr. Ray Tallman, and Dr. Walker Tzeng — offered messages of encouragement and spiritual direction, reminding students that theological education is not merely academic, but transformative and mission-driven.

Olivet University St. Louis opened the 2025–2026 academic year with its Convocation service on September 20 at the OU St. Ann Campus.  The program included special remarks from distinguished guests. Amy Poelker, Mayor of the City of St. Ann, expressed her support through a video message, congratulating OU St. Louis on the start of the new academic year. Reverend Mark Spisak of Olivet Assembly USA and M.Div. student Derrick Watson Jr. also offered reflections, encouraging the community to remain steadfast in faith and service.

With hearts lifted in praise and minds set on the calling ahead, the Olivet University enters the new academic year strengthened in faith and unified in vision, trusting that God will guide and bless every step.

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