Alumni Stories

Alumni Stories

Read about what's new with Greenville University alums as they share their Greenville College/Greenville University experience and talk about how they carry out GU's mission of character and service in the world. 

University News

A legacy of healing and faith: Dr. Tracy Hall’s journey from Greenville University to community-centered medicine

For Dr. Tracy Hall, Greenville College Class of '85, life has been a continuous blend of faith, perseverance, and service. With a degree in biology...

Liz Dowell  |  January 07, 2025

University News

From music to ministry: Dan Damon’s lifelong journey of faith and song

A soft melody blends into a jazz-like tune as Dan Damon plays his rendition of I Saw Three Ships from his recently released Christmas album....

Liz Dowell  |  December 17, 2024

University News

Lynn Adams: Pioneer in women's athletics at Greenville University

From the early 1970s to the early 1990s, Lynn (Simpson ’69) Adams coached several sports and taught a full load of classes at Greenville College....

Dave Bell  |  December 13, 2024

University News

Robyn Florian returns to Greenville University as director for alumni relations

For Robyn (Jaenke ‘88) Florian, Greenville University has always been more than just a school; it has been a home—a place of growth, healing, and...

Liz Dowell  |  December 05, 2024

University News

Captive Portal to creativity: Zach Bridier reflects on music, memories, and Greenville University’s impact

Now a music producer and the creative force behind Captive Portal, Zach Bridier’s story intertwines passion, persistence, and innovation. Zach a 2014 Greenville University graduate, recently...

Liz Dowell  |  December 03, 2024

University News

Greenville University alum Jill Winslow: a life of faith, family, and fostering

A GU LOVE STORY AND A FAMILY OF NINE Jill (McDonald ‘97) Winslow met her husband, Rodney, at Greenville University (formally Greenville College). A shared faith...

Liz Dowell  |  November 26, 2024

University News

Paris Grimmett: Empowering Youth Through Education and Community Leadership

Paris Grimmett, a Greenville University Class of 2016, is passionate about uplifting youth in his hometown of East St. Louis, Illinois, through his nonprofit, First...

Liz Dowell  |  November 19, 2024

University News

Dewayne Neeley: Embracing a New Role, Same Love for Greenville University

After five years splitting his time between Director of Alumni and Church Relations at Greenville University (GU) and Major Gift Officer, Dewayne Neeley, Class of...

Liz Dowell  |  November 07, 2024

University News

Strobel publishes book about his ties to Native Americans

In his latest book of poetry called East Rock (Finishing Line, 2024), Greenville University alum Paul Strobel reflects on his connection to Native American history...

Dave Bell  |  November 06, 2024

University News

KK Mathews: building bridges of service and faith

Kim Kendall Mathews, also known as “KK” Mathews, graduated from Greenville University in 1985 with a degree in social work. He's back for his second...

Liz Dowell  |  November 05, 2024

University News

GU basketball legend Johnny Branch returns for Homecoming

Johnny Branch graduated from Greenville College in 1991 after a record-setting career as a Panther basketball player. He returned to campus in 2006 to be inducted...

Dave Bell  |  November 01, 2024

University News

Sarah Holiday's unexpected path to monastic life

After graduating from Greenville University in 2001, Sarah Holiday embarked on an unconventional and spiritually enriching journey: She became a nun. AN EVOLVING FAITH JOURNEY After graduation,...

Liz Dowell  |  October 31, 2024

University News

Jason Fisher: a journey of faith from Greenville University to ELCA leadership

When Jason Fisher arrived at Greenville University, he had a clear plan: study youth ministry and serve the church. Yet, like so many, his journey...

Liz Dowell  |  October 28, 2024

University News

GREENVILLE UNIVERSITY ALUMNI GATHER FOR BUSY HOMECOMING

GREENVILLE, IL – Perfect fall weather and a jam-packed lineup of activities produced a memorable Homecoming for Greenville University alumni and friends last weekend. Throughout...

D. Bell  |  October 28, 2024

University News

Alum Ben Kesler’s Journey from Greenville University to NPower Missouri

Ben Kesler, a 2002 Greenville University alumnus, former employee, and current executive director of NPower Missouri, is a living testament to the transformative power of...

Liz Dowell  |  October 25, 2024

University News

Greenville Alum Spearheads Development of the Global Methodist Church

Liz Fink, a 2010 Greenville University alumna and a key player in forming the Global Methodist Church (GMC), is deeply rooted in her family’s and...

Liz Dowell  |  October 21, 2024

University News

Greenville Alumna Shelli Altopp-Miller's novel weaves faith and culture

Shelli Altopp-Miller, a 1993 graduate of Greenville University, recently published Where Your Treasure Lies (West Bow Press 2024), a captivating novel set in the Appalachian...

Liz Dowell  |  October 18, 2024

University News

DR. CECELIA ULMER HONORED WITH FACTORY THEATRE NAMING CEREMONY

GREENVILLE, IL — The Factory Theatre is excited to announce a ceremony to honor Dr. Cecelia Ulmer, professor emeritus and founder of the Factory Theatre....

Gret Tindall  |  October 15, 2024

University News

Jen Finley: answering God's call to leadership in the Free Methodist Church

When Jen Finley was presented with the opportunity to become the superintendent of the Wabash and New South Conferences of the Free Methodist Church, she...

Liz Dowell  |  October 14, 2024

University News

GU ALUMNI, A STORIED LEGACY: QUICK, BE PART OF THE STORY!

Greenville University's story may have begun in 1892, but its alumni and students keep adding chapters. What’s yours? GU wants to know. The University has just...

October 14, 2024

University News

Greenville Alumni Lead Relief Efforts in North Carolina from Hurricane Helene

In the aftermath of unprecedented flooding in the North Carolina mountains, communities are rallying to recover, aided by dedicated individuals like Greenville University alumni David...

Liz Dowell  |  October 10, 2024

University News

The RECORD Magazine Release: "Equipped to Influence"

The latest issue of The RECORD, Equipped to Influence, highlights Greenville University's commitment to shaping students and alumni who make a meaningful impact. This edition features...

October 09, 2024

University News

Greenville University Alum Dr. Michael Bond Joins Heart to Heart Hospice as Chief Medical Officer and National Medical Director

Heart to Heart Hospice, a leader in hospice services since 2003, announced the appointment of Dr. Michael M. Bond ’92, DO, FAAFP, as its new...

Julia Roat-Abla  |  October 04, 2024

University News

Alumna Mailee Smith: from Greenville University to advocating for labor policy reform

Mailee Smith ('00), Senior Director of Labor Policy at the Illinois Policy Institute, has forged an impactful career that has taken her from constitutional law...

Liz Dowell  |  October 02, 2024

University News

GREENVILLE UNIVERSITY TO HONOR ALUMNI AT HOMECOMING

Greenville University is pleased to announce its 2024 alumni awardees and Athletic Hall of Fame inductees. Distinguished Alumnus Dale Benson ’63 and Outstanding Young Alumnus...

October 02, 2024

University News

Dana Smith: A Guiding Influence as Area Coordinator

For Dana Smith '19, the start of the new school year isn't only about moving into a different space; it's also about embracing a new...

Julia Roat-Abla  |  September 27, 2024

University News

Greenville University Alumnus Frank Spina publishes new book reflecting on divisions within God's elect people and the Church

Greenville University alumnus Frank Spina '65 has published his latest book, Multiplying Divisions: The Fractious Nature of Israel, God's Elect People (Wipf & Stock, 2024)....

Liz Dowell  |  September 26, 2024

University News

A journey of faith, family, and Greenville University: the story of Roy and Nancy Taylor  

Greenville University has long been recognized for fostering relationships that endure beyond the classroom—whether through faith, community, or the lifelong connections forged on campus. For Roy,...

Liz Dowell  |  September 26, 2024

University News

Greenville Alumnus Will Sunderland’s journey in mental health counseling

GREENVILLE, IL – Will Sunderland’s journey in mental health counseling has profoundly shaped his perspective on serving others, particularly those who have experienced or committed...

Liz Dowell  |  September 16, 2024

University News

A Greenville Alumnus remembered for his service and love of nature

Greenville, Ill.– At Greenville University, the bonds formed during college often last long after graduation. This is especially true of Randy Bister, a late alumnus...

Liz Dowell  |  September 16, 2024

University News

Greenville University Alumnus Dustin Swarm is Recognized by NASA

GREENVILLE, Ill -- Dustin Swarm’s journey from Greenville University to the forefront of astrophysics research is a story of passion, perseverance, and purpose. A 2018...

Liz Dowell  |  September 09, 2024

University News

Q&A with St. Louis-based Worship Artist and Songwriter, Lloyd Nicks '14

Lloyd Nicks is a 2014 graduate of Greenville College, now Greenville University. He is a St. Louis-based Worship Leader and Songwriter bridging the gaps between...

May 22, 2024

University News

MORROW ACKNOWLEDGED ON ANNIVERSARY OF “NICHOLAS MORROW DAY”

GREENVILLE, IL – A year ago, Mayor George Barber declared April 22 as Nicholas Morrow Day inGreenville. In making that designation, Barber cited the many...

D. Bell  |  April 17, 2024

University News

GREENVILLE UNIVERSITY ANNOUNCES EDUCATIONAL DISCOUNT FOR ALUMNI

Greenville University is thrilled to announce an exclusive educational discount available to its esteemed alums, reinforcing its commitment to lifelong learning and academic advancement. GU...

T. Sunderland  |  October 02, 2023

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