Olivet administrators and faculty members gathered at the San Damiano Retreat Center in Danville, California August 10-11 for the University's annual Leadership Retreat.

The retreat was co-presided by University President Dr. David James Randolph and Dean of Olivet Theological College & Seminary (OTCS) Dr. William Lyle Wagner. Activities included formal presentations and time for open discussions, prayer and fellowship.

"I am convinced that God is with us; when we come together we feel the Spirit of the Lord," commented Dr. William Wagner just before leading the group in a 30-minute prayer meeting on the final day of the retreat. 

"Working with everyone at Olivet is always a refreshing experience for me, and I'm delighted by the time we spent here" said Dr. Merrill Smoak, Dean and Professor of Jubilee College of Music who spoke on behalf of the school's faculty leadership. "The talks were very informative, and they helped connect the exciting work going on here in interesting ways."

This year Olivet invited representatives from the University's family of ministry affiliates to report about recent developments in each ministry, and to share plans for the upcoming year. The event also featured a special presentation about the mission and vision of Olivet Theological College & Seminary by OTCS Professor Joseph Ray Tallman, followed by a report from OTCS Professor Tom Cowley.

An ongoing theme in the discussions was "Transforming Visions" – a term used by President Randolph used to describe "the ultimate purpose of the Olivet University, which is to transform the world with the Gospel of Jesus Christ."

The annual autumn leadership retreat is an opportunity for community-building and preparation for the upcoming school year among the University's administration and faculty. Attendees have scheduled to meet in smaller groups throughout August and September to continue discussions from the retreat.