The University of Olivet proudly celebrated the 14th graduating class of the President’s Leadership Institute (PLI) on March 18, 2026, recognizing a group of students committed to leadership, service and growth.
The evening honored students who have dedicated themselves to developing the skills and character needed to lead both on campus and beyond. The PLI continues to play a vital role in shaping students into thoughtful, engaged leaders prepared to make an impact in their professions and communities.
This year’s ceremony featured keynote speaker Edric Miller ’13, an underwriting manager at West Bend Insurance Company. An alumnus of the inaugural PLI, Miller shared insights from his career and reflected on how his experiences at Olivet helped shape his leadership journey. His message encouraged graduates to embrace opportunities, lead with purpose and continue growing long after their time at Olivet.
Family, friends, faculty and mentors shared in the celebration.
President’s Leadership Institute – Class of 2026 (Alphabetical)
Kaylee Byrnes — Criminal Justice
Hailey Cameron — Major not listed
Alissa Casey — Sociology
Brady Crabtree — Exercise Science
Brayden Craig — Media Production & Communications
Richard Davis — Exercise Science
Kaitlin Dyer — Psychology
Taylor Facca — Health Science
Maci Gardner — Biology
Isaac Henry — Exercise Science
Janie Hill — Biology Pre-Med
Braeden Jones — Media Production & Communications
Ty Keeler — Insurance & Risk Management
Sophia Lawson — Psychology
Deegan Shebster-Bodell — Criminal Justice
Austin Straub — Ecology & Organismal Biology
Bethany Stowell — English
Jack Webb — Media Production & Communications
As these students join a growing network of PLI alumni, they carry forward a shared commitment to leadership, service and community. Their experiences in the program have challenged them to grow, step forward and invest in others in meaningful ways. Their time in the program reflects the kind of leadership Olivet is known for—rooted in community, shaped by experience and carried forward into what comes next.