At Olivet Nazarene University, they make it a purpose to ensure that students feel that they belong while finding and honing their calling. I have had the opportunity to gain a little insight into the theatre department through two graduating seniors to find out just what that looks like for them through their journeys at Olivet.
Cabot McLaughlin, Senior, 22, is a one of the many that are graduating from Olivet this spring, fully pushing out into his respective field. McLaughlin has participated in many productions at the Sims Theatre. Recently, he has participated in the show “Newsies.” Over his time at Olivet, it was evident to him that he was able to feel the welcoming aspects of community at Olivet, especially with productions.
“Just the atmosphere and community aspect,” were two of the things that were constantly said by McLaughlin.
McLaughlin has committed to continuing to find himself within the community as he plans on being involved in leading worship in his plans after college.
Featuring Lauren Neel
On the other end of the scene is Lauren Neel a graduating with a major in Theatre Peformance and Production at Olivet Nazarene University. In her time within the program, Neel has taken up the passion for directing. Neel says community is a big part of what made the experience while at Olivet.
“The sense of community we had, it all just feels like one big family,” Neel said.
Community is what created the atmosphere in which she was able to flourish along with her classmates. In the theatre program she was able to hone her passion for leading others to common success. Neel made many references to seeing her father lead a band when she was young. This is a part of what inspired her pursuit of bringing that community together.
As reported in Studies in Higher Education article, the authors note that “positive connections between students and their teachers may improve students’ engagement in learning and foster their motivation and persistence.” Read the full article here.
This has been one of the biggest motivations for the seniors in the department. When asked about future plans, Neel intends on returning to Olivet as a graduate assistant within the theatre department.
“I just love directing students and encouraging people in their passion for the arts,” she said when addressing her long-term goals. Neel intends to gain plenty of experience in productions as well as hone her skills of creating belonging during her time at ONU.
In short, the community has been a driving factor for the theatre students at ONU. To learn more about the Communication Department at Olivet, our team has featured other majors within the department. To read another article, click here.
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