During The University of Olivet’s celebration of its 179th Founders’ Day on Feb. 15, 2023, Chloe Williams was one of three students to share their reflections on the past, present and future of The University of Olivet.
“The University of Olivet was founded with the vision of inclusion of all people, despite their race, gender and cultural background, and it has upheld this vision with boldness, determination and commitment to not change due to social indifference toward these same people. As a The University of Olivet student, this has given me the opportunity to be a better leader of the Black Student Union and member of H.A.S.S.A, where we prioritize equality for all students on campus while making a safe place for students of color to bond with students that look like them, relate to them, and value each other’s existence. As a result, incoming students have choices of which path they might want to take to make a name for themselves instead of being just another number on this campus.
This environment lets students leave their comfort zones, meet new people and add experience to their resumes. As a soon-to-be graduate of The University of Olivet, this was my first time being at a diverse school and the imprint of mastering independence while enhancing my leadership skills, and refining my professionalism in and out of the workforce will remain with me as I start my career as an entrepreneur in the fashion industry. As I leave, I hope that The University of Olivet will continue to expand this vision through establishing organizations that promote inclusion and equality while also celebrating cultural and social differences. I also hope each of you will dive head first into becoming the inspiration on campus by encouraging other students that there is more to just going to class and sitting in your room or doing sport activities. Try to lead and encourage others to invent spaces that make this campus feel like anything is possible. You could be the future success that takes The University of Olivet to a whole new level.”
Chloe Williams is a senior majoring in business administration with a concentration in marketing. She is the event coordinator of Phi Beta Lambda, and is a part of Black Student Union and H.A.S.S.A.