Jaclyn Gidley (Roorbach '12)
Director of Alumni & Church Relations
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Welcome to the February edition of the IWU Alumni Newsletter!
This month we’re excited to share that Indiana Wesleyan University is featured on The College Tour, offering viewers a glimpse into the heart of our campus and community. We’re also looking ahead to Pastor Appreciation Day next week as we celebrate and encourage those serving faithfully in ministry. Additionally, we invite you to submit nominations recognizing outstanding alumni making a difference. As always, we’re glad to share life updates from fellow alumni — a reminder of the many ways IWU graduates are living out their calling.
Thank you for staying connected with us!
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We are excited to share that the IWU residential campus in Marion, IN has been featured on The College Tour, a nationally distributed series that highlights colleges and universities through authentic student stories.
Our episode is now live on YouTube, as well as The College Tour website and it will continue to be pushed across various streaming channels. Season 16 will debut on Amazon on June 16, 2026.
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UPCOMING EVENTS & AWARD NOMINATIONS
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We are delighted to invite you to join us for our Pastor Appreciation Day, which is a special day dedicated to honoring the pastors, administrators, and staff who faithfully serve our church communities.
This special gathering is designed to celebrate the tireless dedication, spiritual guidance, and unwavering commitment that you and your team pour into the body of Christ.
Last chance to register! We would be honored to have you join us. Take a moment to secure your spot and share this invitation with anyone on your team who would be encouraged by this time of celebration and fellowship. We look forward to gathering together in gratitude as we recognize the faithful shepherds who lead with humility, strength, and steadfast devotion.
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Mark Your Calendars for our Career Fair: March 18
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Mark your calendars for Wednesday, March 18, 2026! Looking for a job change or pivoting to a new career? Or are you an employer who is looking to connect with IWU students and alumni? This is the event of the year for launching your next step or meeting your next hire! Meet with recruiters from all industries—business, ministry, community development, healthcare, government, and more. Available for all IWU-Marion students & National & Global students, & Alumni (recent grads & career changers). Alumni - no need to register, just show up to event!
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Mark Your Calendars for Homecoming: October 23 - 24
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We are thrilled to announce that nominations are now open for the 2026 Distinguished Alumni Awards and the Alumni World Changer Award. If you know an alumnus who deserves recognition, we encourage you to submit a nomination by March 2, 2026, at 5 p.m. EST.
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Mark Your Calendars for Veterans Day: November 11
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We are pleased to share that nominations are now open for the Distinguished Military Alumni Award. Do you know an IWU military alumnus worthy of this honor? Submit a nomination by March 2, 2026, at 5 p.m. EST., and help us celebrate their dedication to both country and community.
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UNIVERSITY NEWS & PARTNERSHIPS
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IWU has released its 2025 Economic and Social Impact Report, confirming the university’s role as a major contributor to Indiana’s economy. The independent analysis, conducted by Econsult Solutions Inc., found that IWU generates $649 million in annual economic activity, supports 3,510 jobs statewide, and produces $18.6 million in annual tax revenue.
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The Intercultural and Global Office has so many exciting things going on! Check out their latest newsletter.
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ALUMNI NEWS & LIFE UPDATES
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Mount Vernon Nazarene University has appointed Dr. Michaelia Black as its new Vice President for Finance and Chief Financial Officer. In this position she will oversee the university’s financial strategy, operations, and compliance as part of the President’s Cabinet. Dr. Black brings extensive experience in higher education finance and administration, most recently serving at Lee University prior to joining MVNU.
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Eric Thornbury, Director of Bands and Music Department Chair at Noblesville High School, was recently named a top Indiana music educator by the Indiana Music Education Association, marking a significant professional recognition. This honor highlights his leadership and contribution to music education in the state, reflecting his impact on students and his school’s music programs. The award is the second time in four years that a Noblesville educator has earned this distinction, underscoring the strength of the district’s music instruction.
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Emily (Jackson) Bradford '12
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Emily Bradford has been named the new Director of Community and Economic Development. A lifelong Montgomery County resident, she graduated magna cum laude from IWU with a bachelor’s degree in business administration and brings nearly two decades of county government experience to the role. Bradford began her county career in 2006 and has served as Clerk of Commission/Director of BCC Operations since 2018, leading modernization efforts that strengthened efficiency, transparency, and accountability. Her tenure with the Board of County Commissioners has given her deep expertise in statutory compliance, legislative processes, public-sector governance, and intergovernmental coordination.
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Rev. Stephen Howlett has accepted the call to serve as Lead Pastor at Swanton Church of the Nazarene in Swanton, OH beginning January 11, 2026. Coming from a twelve-year background in the Wesleyan Church, most recently at The River Church in Marion, IN, Howlett brings experience in leadership, ministry, and administration to the Northwestern Ohio team.
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Lake City Bank announced Sam Hall has been promoted to Assistant Vice President, Finance Officer. In this position, Hall supervises the accounting specialists’ workflow and provides accounting support for accounts payable, general ledger accounting, fixed assets and account reconciliation. Hall also oversees weekly regulatory reporting, prepares the call report and assists with monthly board and management reporting. He has been with the bank for four years.
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We’re excited to introduce the Wildcat Community Portal—a new way for alumni and friends of IWU to stay connected. This secure, personalized space allows you to update your contact details, opportunities to get involved, search our alumni directory, and explore our interactive job board—all in one convenient place.
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Velva (of Marion, IN) passed away in February 2026.
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Betty (of Clemson, SC) passed away in January 2026.
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Beth (of Castle Rock, CO) passed away in January 2026.
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Carl (of New Castle, IN) passed away in February 2026.
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Kimberly (of Louisville, KY) passed away in January 2026.
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Steve (of Lafayette, IN) passed away in January 2026.
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Kevin (of Fishers, IN) passed away in January 2026.
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Ed (of Warren, IN) passed away in February 2026.
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We’d love to celebrate life’s milestones with you and keep your IWU family in the loop! Whether you’ve started a new job, relocated, or added a little Wildcat to your family, be sure to update your information with us.
If you’ve recently had a baby, or have a young child(ren), let us know and we’ll send you a free IWU onesie or youth shirt to help welcome them to the IWU family!
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IWU Alumni Office | 4201 S. Washington St. | Marion, IN 46983 | 765-677-2110
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