Jason Meadows ’03 serves as associate dean for student engagement at The University of Olivet. He originally came to campus as a first-year student and launched his career at the College shortly after graduation. Jason has a deep passion for student life, holding positions like hall director, director of student activities and multicultural director prior to becoming the associate dean. He always has and always will have one top goal — creating a fun and safe learning and living environment for Comets.
Why do you love OC?
The University of Olivet mission and Compact are tenets that align with my personal beliefs on the importance of education and the value of diversity and inclusion. Those principles and ideas can make a positive impact when we use them in our sphere of influence.
What is your favorite memory from your time at OC?
Some of my favorite memories of my time at The University of Olivet are rooted in the campus life experience with student clubs and organizations. I made some impactful, lifelong friendships at the College. Also, I explored some of my creative artistic endeavors as a student which lead to various leadership opportunities. I was a member of the Free Yo’ Mind Poetry Organization, and we started an after-school mentoring program at the Willard Library in Battle Creek. I was a part of the Alpha Omega campus organization, and I had a radio show on WOCR for two years. In my senior year, I became a resident life adviser, which led to my start in the field of student affairs.
Where does your passion for working in student life stem from?
It comes from knowing that education and exposure are some of the foundational keys for personal liberation. The college experience can have a positive and transformative impact on a student’s intellectual and personal development. I want to help create a campus culture and environment, through educational and social programs and leadership opportunities, where students can gain meaningful information in a safe, positive living and learning campus experience. College students need to be supported and encouraged by dedicated staff and faculty that desire to see them grow as responsible leaders. I strive to encourage students to apply the The University of Olivet Compact principles in their lives and become their best selves.
What’s the average day in your role, or some of the unique things you are responsible for?
In my current role, I work with both students and staff, student clubs and organizations and the residence life department. Also, I help create various social, educational and multicultural programs for the campus community. My days are filled with different opportunities to help students with life issues and experiences. I often work in the evenings with campus programs or the residential life team.
Why do you encourage students to attend OC?
Olivet provides a unique context where students can focus on their academic endeavors and explore their interests and passions without the distractions of a large town. Students will be able to grow with the support of a caring community that will encourage them to live the Compact and learn the divine art and science of doing good to others.
What do you look forward to in your role?
I look forward to Welcome Week, Homecoming and Commencement every year.
What is an interesting or little-known fact about yourself?
I enjoy the outdoors and traveling internationally. Currently, I am also a Ph.D. student at the John Wesley School of Leadership at Piedmont International University.
Learn more about The University of Olivet by contacting the Office of Admissions at 800-456-7189 or admissions@uolivet.edu.
Menu