Olivet University invested its 6th President, Dr. Jonathan Park, in a combined inauguration and commencement ceremony.
The ceremonial investiture began with an introduction from Olivet University's former 3rd President, Dr. William Wagner. Wagner provided an inspirational speech that welcomed Dr. Park and encouraged him to lead the school into a new era of development.
Chairman of the Board, Dr. Nathanael Tran, was then invited to share his remarks and lead the investiture ceremony. Tran reflected on his experience working together with Dr. Park in past years and the leadership qualities that the Board saw in him for the President position. Olivet University Board members were present on stage as Dr. Jonathan Park was sworn in with an oath and presented with the President's plaque, signifying his new position.
Guests in attendance included students, alumni, local community leaders, and past and current school leaders, including former Olivet University presidents and the board of trustees, to witness the historic event.
“We are so grateful for President Gebhardt’s long-standing and ongoing commitment to the university, and I look forward to working with him and the rest of the Olivet University community in this new capacity,” said Dr. Park. “For 20 years, Olivet University has helped students put their faith into action and spread God’s word across the world. We are thrilled to grow that important work over the next 20 years.”
Outgoing President Dr. Matthias Gebhardt was given a heartwarming tribute as the Board of Trustees expressed their gratitude on behalf of the University for his dedication and service over the past four years.
Dr. Park will be assuming his new leadership duties for the next school year. He is a graduate of Olivet University and worked as a Program Director at the university. He is returning to the school after pastoring a church in St. Louis, MO.
About Olivet University
Olivet University is an institution of biblical higher education dedicated to training ministry-bound men and women as biblical scholars and leaders and to equipping them with the practical skills to serve in mission and ministry. Olivet University offers bachelor’s degree programs and certificates in nine colleges for freshmen and transfer students. Students may choose from majors in theology, art, music, journalism, IT, language, business, agriculture, or engineering, as well as graduate degree programs that provide students with the opportunity to expand their qualifications for many related vocations. Olivet University students come from a wide range of age groups, geographical areas, educational backgrounds, and cultural heritages. Learn more at Learn more at Olivetuniversity.edu