On September 22, 2025, Olivet Theological College & Seminary (OTCS) Orlando Campus held its 2025 Fall Convocation Ceremony, bringing together students, faculty, alumni, and distinguished guests for a meaningful celebration to mark the beginning of a new academic year.
The ceremony opened with a welcome address giving thanks for God’s blessings and prayed that the new academic year would be sanctified and fruitful through the work of the Holy Spirit. A faculty member of Olivet University, Dr. Sarah Park offered the Invocation Prayer, dedicating the school, its faculty, and students to Christ’s service and the advancement of God’s Kingdom.
In his address, Dr. Jonathan Park, President of Olivet University, emphasized the importance of dedicating the first step of the new academic year to God. Recalling his own first day at Olivet, he reminded the community that the university belongs to God and was founded according to His will. Dr. Park encouraged students to persevere through challenges, noting that perseverance produces character and hope, preparing them for future ministry.
Special remarks were also delivered by Mark Li, CFO of Olivet University, who reflected on his experiences as part of the first class of Olivet University in San Francisco. He shared how youthful zeal matures into deeper faith that trusts in the Holy Spirit’s leading, and he encouraged the community to meet this generation’s thirst for truth with conviction and hope.
Dr. Nathaneal Tran welcomed students to the new semester, drawing on 1 Corinthians 3:6 to remind them that while we plant and water, God brings the growth. Using the image of tadpoles growing into frogs, he urged students to mature in faith, serve actively, and boldly live for Christ.
The student address was given by Rani Reid, who shared how God redirected her path to Olivet through Scripture. She testified to the importance of being grounded in theology for mission and evangelism and encouraged students to remain teachable and prayerful throughout their studies.
The benediction was pronounced by Dr. Randall Bell, Director Emeritus of the Commission on Accreditation, who reflected on Isaiah 6 and the recent memorial service for Charlie Kirk, reminding the community that each person is created with a divine purpose. He prayed that Olivet University would stand firmly in truth, equip students for faithful witness, and inspire them to live with vigilance and hope in the last days.
The convocation concluded with announcements, a group photo, a reception, and a campus tour for guests.