Purpose Takes Shape Along The Way
Dr. Sarah Miller (’09, MSN ’10) never set out to become a university dean.
A Caring Welcome: Introducing MNU’s New First Lady, Faith NorthÂ
When Faith (Palmer ’92) North stepped onto MidAmerica Nazarene University’s campus as a student in the late 1980s, she couldn’t have imagined that one day she would return as the university’s First Lady. Yet the path that began with her own college experience—deep friendships, personal and spiritual growth, and preparation for a career in nursing—has come full circle.
Following the Light: Dr. Brady Braatz’s Journey of Purpose
Dr. Brady Braatz, MNU chaplain, is leading students toward more purposeful lives.
Rachel Marlow’s Purposeful Journey from Student to Kansas Teacher of the Year
Each time Rachel Marlow (MEd ’15) enters her music classroom at Central Elementary in Olathe, she brings not only instruments and lesson plans but also a vibrant commitment to inclusion, compassion, and purpose.
Purpose Beyond Position
When Dr. Nancy Damron (’95, MEd ’98) first stepped onto MidAmerica Nazarene University’s campus, she wasn’t sure what she was searching for.
Breaking Cycles, Building Futures: Justin Pickens Inspires Future Educators
When Justin Pickens (’10) stood before 300 high school students considering a career in education, he shared a message profoundly personal and powerfully hopeful.
A Purpose-Driven Path to Justice
Andrew Speicher (’98) lives out MNU’s mission daily as a husband, father, attorney, and community leader. His faith journey began at church camp, where he committed his life to Christ—a decision that shaped his education and led him to MNU.
Purposeful Lives In Action
Audrey Weaver, Shawn Evans and Abby Kovalcik are MNU’s 2025 Alumni Award Recipients.
Dr. Jeff DeGraffenreid Honored with Michael Copeland Civic Leadership Award
MidAmerica Nazarene University is proud to announce Dr. Jeff DeGraffenreid (’96, MEd ’99) as the 2025 recipient of the Michael Copeland Civic Leadership Award.
Paying It Forward With Purpose
Apa Visinia, Jr. (’23, MBA ’25) is living out his purpose in a rewarding job that allows him to help those who are in the same situation he once experienced.