Introduction:
Nestled in the heart of Michigan, Olivet College is a small liberal arts college that prides itself on its commitment to academic excellence, diversity, and service. Founded in 1844, Olivet College has a rich history and many interesting stories to tell. In this blog post, we will explore some of the most fascinating fun facts about Olivet College.
Olivet College’s Famous Alumni
Olivet College has produced some impressive alumni, including famous actors, musicians, politicians, and athletes. One of the most well-known alumni is Terry Crews, an actor, comedian, and former NFL player. Crews graduated from Olivet College in 1991 with a degree in art. He is best known for his roles in TV shows and movies such as Brooklyn Nine-Nine, Everybody Hates Chris, and The Expendables.
Another famous alumni is Dr. Ralph Bunche, a diplomat and Nobel Peace Prize winner. Bunche graduated from Olivet College in 1927 with a degree in international relations. He went on to work for the United Nations and played a key role in negotiating the armistice between Israel and its Arab neighbors in 1949. Bunche was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1950 for his efforts.
Other notable Olivet College alumni include musician Frankie Ballard, Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer, and baseball player Zach Putnam.
The Legend of Olivet’s “Bear Den”
One of the most enduring legends about Olivet College is the story of the “Bear Den.” According to the legend, the college’s mascot, a bear named Shifty, was once kept in a small cage on campus. The cage was located near the old gymnasium, which was called the “Bear Den.” Shifty was reportedly mistreated and neglected, and his sad cries could be heard echoing through the campus.
Eventually, a group of students decided to take matters into their own hands and set Shifty free. They broke into the cage and released the bear into the wild. Legend has it that Shifty still roams the woods around Olivet College, and that his spirit haunts the “Bear Den” to this day.
While the story of Shifty the bear may be just a legend, it reflects the deep connection that Olivet College students have to their mascot and their school.
Olivet College’s Unique Curriculum
Olivet College has a unique and innovative approach to education that sets it apart from other liberal arts colleges. The college’s curriculum is based on the “Olivet Plan,” which combines traditional academic courses with experiential learning opportunities.
Under the Olivet Plan, students are required to take a set of core courses in the liberal arts and sciences, as well as courses in their chosen major. They are also required to participate in at least one experiential learning opportunity, such as an internship, research project, or service-learning project.
The goal of the Olivet Plan is to provide students with a well-rounded education that prepares them for success in their chosen careers and in life. By combining academic rigor with real-world experience, Olivet College gives students the skills and knowledge they need to make a difference in the world.
The Legacy of Olivet’s First Female Graduate
Olivet College has a long and proud history of promoting gender equality and empowering women. In 1850, the college became one of the first colleges in the country to admit women as full-time students. And in 1861, Olivet College graduated its first female student, Antoinette Brown Blackwell.
Blackwell went on to become a prominent advocate for women’s rights and one of the first women in the country to be ordained as a minister. She played a key role in the women’s suffrage movement and worked tirelessly to promote gender equality in all areas of life.
Today, Olivet College continues to honor Blackwell’s legacy by providing opportunities for women to excel in their chosen fields. The college offers a wide range of academic programs in areas such as business, education, nursing, and more. It also has a number of student organizations and clubs dedicated to empowering women and promoting gender equality.
Olivet College’s Strong Athletic Tradition
Olivet College has a strong athletic tradition, with a long history of successful sports teams and athletes. The college is a member of the Michigan Intercollegiate Athletic Association (MIAA) and competes in a wide range of sports, including football, basketball, baseball, softball, volleyball, and more.
Some of Olivet College’s most successful sports teams include the football team, which has won 14 MIAA championships, and the men’s basketball team, which has won 11 MIAA championships. The college also has a strong tradition in track and field, with several national champions and Olympic athletes among its alumni.
In addition to its success on the field, Olivet College is also committed to developing student-athletes who excel both academically and athletically. The college has a strong support system in place for student-athletes, including academic advising, tutoring, and mentoring programs.
Olivet College’s Beautiful Campus
Olivet College is located on a beautiful campus that covers more than 100 acres in the heart of Michigan. The campus features a mix of historic and modern buildings, including the iconic Kirk Center, which houses the college’s administrative offices, classrooms, and auditorium.
One of the most beautiful parts of the campus is the campus quadrangle, which is surrounded by a number of historic buildings and is a popular gathering spot for students. The quad is also home to a number of events throughout the year, including concerts, festivals, and outdoor movie screenings.
Other notable features of the Olivet College campus include the Shipherd Memorial Library, which houses more than 200,000 volumes and is one of the largest academic libraries in the region, and the Riethmiller Blackman Art Building, which features a collection of art and sculpture from around the world.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, Olivet College is a small but vibrant liberal arts college with a rich history and many interesting stories to tell. From its famous alumni and unique curriculum to its strong athletic tradition and beautiful campus, Olivet College has something to offer everyone. Whether you are a prospective student, a current student, or an alum, there is always something new and exciting to discover about Olivet College.