Alumni Stories

University News

Greenville University Giants: Honoring a Legacy of Service

Greenville University has long been a place where students are educated and transformed. Rooted in a Christ-centered mission, the University seeks to empower lives of...

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Greenville Alumna Moriah Summers Finds Purpose in Ministry and Writing

Faith has always been central to Moriah Summers's life. But since graduating from Greenville University in 2023, she has immersed herself in ministry in ways...

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Purpose in the Flames: Dale Benson’s Lifelong Mission of Service

On the night of April 28, 1956, fate intervened in the life of a 14-year-old boy. Unconscious and trapped in a burning bedroom, Dale Benson...

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Josh McGill, GU Class of '22, leads high school soccer team to unlikely regional title

It had been more than a decade since the Greenville High School soccer team had played in a regional final. And after the GHS squad...

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A semester like no other: live, learn, and serve in the Dominican Republic

“We want to go back,” declared participants in Greenville University’s inaugural study-abroad semester in the Dominican Republic upon their return last December. Who knew the personal...

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From the court to the courtroom: Ashely Dryden’s journey of empowerment

For some, a movie-night flick entertains. For Greenville University alum Ashley Dryden, a Netflix show inspired her service as a probation officer. Four years later,...

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GU alums reunite at I-70 Baseball Coaches Clinic

For the past 21 years, the I-70 Baseball Coaches Clinic has brought accomplished baseball players and coaches to Greenville each January to share their expertise...

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GC graduate Lloyd Nicks wins Grammy Award

At the February 2 Grammy Awards ceremony, four young songwriters rushed onto the stage after being announced as the winners of the “Best Contemporary Christian...

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From Adversity to Achievement: Thomas Kelly’s Journey at Greenville University

Thomas Kelly’s life has been shaped by pivotal moments—some marred by the darkness of human nature, others illuminated by the light of faith and resilience. A...

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Fearless Pursuit: Ansley DeVrieze's Journey from Athlete to Pediatric Therapist

Dr. Ansley DeVrieze ’13 has never been afraid to take a leap of faith. “My mom would say I was fearless,” she laughed, reflecting on...

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From youth ministry to athletics: Tori Gocey’s journey at Greenville University

For Tori Gocey, her path from student to staff at Greenville University has been shaped by faith, relationships, and a commitment to the community. Now serving...

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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...

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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....

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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....

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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...

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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...

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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...

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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...

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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...

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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...

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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...

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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...

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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,...

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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...

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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...

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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...

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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...

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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...

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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....

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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...

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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...

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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...

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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...

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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...

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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...

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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...

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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...

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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)....

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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,...

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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...

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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...

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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...

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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...

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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...

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...