GU alumni Nicholas Morrow to speak at Greenville University Commencement

Published: May 01, 2026

Greenville, Ill. — Greenville University (GU) will welcome Nicholas Morrow, a standout alumnus, as the commencement speaker for the Class of 2026 on Saturday, May 9, at Hogue Lawn.

For more than 130 years, the University’s commencement ceremony has honored graduates whose achievements, innovation, and character reflect the institution’s enduring mission.

“It has been an honor to be part of the Greenville family since 2013. I'm excited to return to a place I call home, not because I was born here, but because it's a place that allowed me to fail, learn, and grow. I look forward to sharing in the moment with the next generation of graduates who will carry the brilliance of GU out into the world,” said Morrow.

Morrow was born in St. Louis, Missouri, and grew up in Huntsville, Alabama. He attended GU from 2013-2016, where he majored in biology and was on the Dean’s list, while playing football for the Panthers. During his time at Greenville, Morrow developed into an All-American performer and became the first player in school history to reach the NFL.

In 2017, Morrow signed with the Oakland Raiders as an undrafted free agent. He went on to establish himself as a standout linebacker, spending time with the Raiders' franchise, the Chicago Bears, Philadelphia Eagles, and Buffalo Bills. His journey in the League culminated in a championship ring in the 2024 season when he rejoined the Philadelphia Eagles and was part of the team that won Super Bowl LIX.

Morrow married his wife Megan in 2023, and has two daughters: Naomi, who is 2, and Isabel, who is 1.

Greenville University honored Nicholas’ impact by retiring his jersey in 2023, celebrating both his athletic achievements and his exemplary witness as someone who embodies Christ-like character and service.

Alongside the conferring of degrees, President Suzanne Davis will recognize exceptional achievements by presenting three of the University’s highest individual honors: President’s Award for Character and Service, President's Citation Award, and the W. Richard Stephen’s Award.

ABOUT GREENVILLE UNIVERSITY

Greenville University is an accredited Christian liberal arts university with over 1,000 students, including traditional undergraduate, graduate, gap program, and adult degree completion students. Founded in 1892 and affiliated with the Free Methodist Church, the University is in Greenville, IL, 45 miles east of St. Louis, Missouri. Greenville University’s mission is to empower students for lives of character and service through a transforming Christ-centered education. At Greenville University, students are seen, known, and inspired as global citizens fueled by immersive experiences, innovative learning, and a deeply connected community, anchored in a transformative relationship with God. For more information, visit www.greenville.edu.