Some of the 40 buses deployed for the FIFA World Cup parked on the campus of MNU.
This summer, MidAmerica Nazarene University is serving as a home away from home for a group of transportation professionals helping support one of the world’s largest sporting events.
Forty professional drivers and 10 road supervisors from Transdev are staying on MNU’s campus while providing transportation services for Johnson County Transit during the FIFA World Cup. The team operates a fleet of 40 buses dedicated to helping residents and visitors move throughout the region during the event.
The operation is the result of nine months of planning and collaboration among Transdev, Johnson County Transit, and MNU. Drivers traveled from 17 states to participate in the assignment and were selected for their experience, safety records, customer service excellence and interest in serving during a major international event.
While supporting a global event is exciting, spending six weeks away from family can be challenging. According to Transdev leaders, MNU’s campus and community have helped make that transition easier.
“Our drivers have shared overwhelmingly positive feedback about their stay,” Transdev representatives said. “Many have commented on how welcoming the MidAmerica Nazarene University campus feels and how much they enjoy the surrounding community.”
For Transdev, the success of the operation depends on more than transportation logistics. Great drivers bring professionalism, a commitment to safety, strong customer service skills and a passion for serving their communities. Those qualities become even more important when transporting passengers during an event of this magnitude.
The reward, company leaders say, is helping welcome visitors from around the world while contributing to a once-in-a-lifetime experience for the Kansas City region.
Matthew Leinen, operational performance manager for Transdev, expressed gratitude for the hospitality shown by the university.
“In the greatest challenge comes the opportunity to find a new community you would have never likely discovered,” Leinen said. “I would like to say thank you to all at MidAmerica Nazarene University for the wonderful community we have found in this great challenge. You all have truly made us feel we are a part of it.”
As the world turns its attention to the region this summer, MNU is playing a small but meaningful role—providing a place of rest, welcome, and community for those helping keep the event moving.
Check the Johnson County United website to learn about bus routes and how to get around the area for FIFA World Cup games.
