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.
Living His Purpose Through The Law
When Jerry Wallentine (’95) arrived at MidAmerica Nazarene University in 1991, he brought with him a deep Nazarene heritage, a football scholarship, and a willingness to immerse himself in campus life.
Purpose Continues in “Retirement”
Roxanne (Alexander ’81) Jones, RN, BSN, MA, never imagined her nursing career would take her around the world—and back again. When she transferred to Mid-America Nazarene College (now MNU) in 1978, it was a decision born of homesickness and faith.
Purpose Leads Alum Back to MNU
Growing up on MidAmerica Nazarene University’s campus, Jared Kellum (’16, ABSN ’19, MSN ’25) always felt at home among the brick paths and friendly faces.
Capt. Tammie Jo Shults: Pilot, Mentor, Woman of Faith
On April 17, 2018, Capt. Tammie Jo Shults made history by safely landing a heavily damaged Southwest Airlines Boeing 737 after a catastrophic engine failure and cabin decompression—an act of skill and composure that saved 148 lives. On April 11, 2025, the 1983 MidAmerica Nazarene University alumna was inducted into the Texas Aviation Hall of Fame.