white line

MNU to Honor the J.E. and L.E. Mabee Foundation with 2025 Passion to Serve Award

 |
Carol Best

MidAmerica Nazarene University (MNU) is honored to recognize the J.E. and L.E. Mabee Foundation of Tulsa, Oklahoma, with its 2025 Passion to Serve award. The award will be presented at the 13th annual President’s Honors gala on April 11, 2025, as a tribute to the foundation’s transformative impact on MNU’s students, faculty, and campus.

For decades, the Mabee Foundation has been a steadfast supporter of MNU’s mission, providing more than $7 million in capital challenge grants and gifts. These contributions have played a crucial role in expanding and enhancing the university’s facilities, ensuring that students receive an exceptional Christ-centered education in spaces that best serve student needs.

“The generosity of the Mabee Foundation has been instrumental in shaping the MNU experience,” said MNU President David Spittal. “Their commitment to higher education and their belief in our mission have helped us create opportunities that change lives and prepare students to serve with purpose.”

Established in 1948 by John and Lottie Mabee, the Mabee Foundation has provided over $1.6 billion to non-profit, health, and educational institutions across the central United States. Its challenge grants have encouraged donor participation and propelled capital projects to completion, making a lasting difference in the communities it serves.

MNU’s President’s Honors gala, the university’s premier fundraising event, celebrates philanthropy and excellence in service. In its first 12 years, generous donors have contributed nearly $8 million for student scholarships. The Passion to Serve award recognizes individuals and organizations whose generosity and dedication exemplify MNU’s mission to transform lives through Christ-centered higher education.

Whether in attendance at President’s Honors or online, you can support scholarships in the silent auction beginning April 7. For more information, visit presidentshonors.org.

Jul
13
MWROC Festival 2026 - The Mark Wood Experience and Matt Vanacoro
Bell Cultural Events Center
7:00 pm

8:00 pm
Jul
14
MWROC Festival 2026 - Greg Byers and Robb Janov
Bell Cultural Events Center
7:00 pm

8:00 pm
Jul
15
MWROC Festival 2026 - The Chuck and David Show, starring Dr. David Wallace and Dr. Chuck Bontrager
Bell Cultural Events Center
7:00 pm

8:00 pm
Jul
16
MWROC Festival 2026 - Matt Bell, Haydn Vitera, and Dr. Felicia Rojas
Bell Cultural Events Center
7:00 pm

8:00 pm

Featured News

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...
MNU BSN Graduate Strengthens Her Purpose Through Nursing Program
Higher Learning Commission Reaffirms MNU Accreditation with All Criteria Met
The Higher Learning Commission (HLC) has reaffirmed MidAmerica Nazarene University’s accreditation following a comprehensive institutional review process that...
Higher Learning Commission Reaffirms MNU Accreditation with All Criteria Met