Kylee Garber Creates a Learning Environment Where Students Belong
For Kylee (Stevens ’25) Garber, teaching is about more than lessons, assignments and test scores. It is about creating a classroom where every student feels safe, loved and capable of succeeding.
That commitment helped the 2025 MidAmerica Nazarene University graduate stand out during her first year at Prairie Creek Elementary School and be nominated for the Kansas Horizon Award. The honor recognizes exemplary first-year PreK-12 teachers for their work in instruction, student assessment and classroom management.
Advancing His Purpose By Answering God’s Call
For Dr. Addison Lucchi (MBA ’19), purpose has never been confined to a classroom, library or campus office. Instead, it has grown through years of faithful service, cross-cultural relationships and a deep conviction that God can use stories to transform lives.
Purposeful Lives Start Here: Prof. Pam Burrus (’72)
For Professor Pam Burrus, purpose was never about position—it was about people.
“I never sought those things out,” she says of her decorated career as a teacher, principal, and national award-winning educator. “I just wanted to help take care of God’s children.”
MNU BSN Graduate Strengthens Her Purpose Through Nursing Program
Brittney Thompson’s dream of becoming a nurse felt out of reach, but on May 2, she received her degree at MidAmerica Nazarene University.
Purpose Found In Faith, Family And Folks
Sam Riley’s life is proof that transformation doesn’t always come quietly.
MidAmerica Nazarene University To Honor Drs. David and Donna Spittal with Lifetime Achievement Award
MidAmerica Nazarene University is pleased to announce that Drs. David and Donna Spittal have been selected as the recipients of the 2026 Lifetime Achievement Award, the university’s highest honor.
Purpose Found Through Unexpected Detours
Trey Larimer arrived at college with a clear plan—and a problem. He wanted to help people, and he believed the medical field was the best way to do that.
Student Leaders Day At Kansas State Capitol
KICA invited student leaders from its institutions to attend Student Day at the Kansas State Capitol February 25, 2026.
MNU Alum Helps Bring World Cup Soccer to KC
Yann Passet was part of the executive committee representing Kansas City’s successful FIFA World Cup 2026 bid, sharing the city’s vision with FIFA officials.
Purpose Recognized As Alum Named 2026 Horizon Award Recipient
Cordelia Hanger ’24 is living out her purpose in her elementary school classroom, and the state of Kansas has taken notice.