Let’s take a moment to learn a little bit more about Indiana Wesleyan University. I had the fortunate opportunity to sit down for a special conversation with President Dr. Jon Kulaga. We talked about what makes IWU so unique, the students who inspire him, and his vision for the future of this Christ centered University. Check it out. I’ve heard you say it many times, like unapologetically Christ-centered. Can you share a little bit about that?
– Yeah. Well, yeah, it’s our way of sort of differentiating ourselves from schools that have been religious or were formerly religious. They had historical denominational ties, but they’ve sort of left that, and we’ve stayed true to that. We are, we say, unapologetic. We don’t talk about religion; we actually talk about Jesus Christ. We wanna be focused on the Word of God and the work of Christ and everything we do, and we’re unapologetic about it. So it impacts our hiring practices, but then it also extends way beyond just the classroom. We have a whole center for calling for students who don’t know what their major is, but they do wanna go to college, and we have a way to walk through that whole process with them. It impacts our lifestyle commitments, and it impacts who plays on our athletic teams. I mean, it literally goes from the classroom to the tennis courts, and we’re just bold about it, and we’re just kind of upfront about it.
– It’s everywhere here.
– Yep.
– You feel it. It’s amazing. When you sit back and have time to just reflect and just think it inspired, what inspires you about these students, you know, inside and outside the classroom?
– You mean hypothetically if I sat back and had time to reflect?
– Yeah. Yeah, exactly.
– Yeah. Yeah. If I actually had that time, it’s the thing about the Indiana Wesleyan students, and it’s true whether you’re talking about our campus or our online students or our seminary students, is not only what they’re being educated to become in terms of their career, they have great ideas for their careers, but it’s the people they’re becoming. It’s actually who they are becoming. And you see that from the moment they walk on campus. Our students serve in the community. They love on the least the last and the littlest on campus. They’re always looking for a way to walk out and to be actually Jesus with skin on, and they’re thinking about that long term. They are here for a career, but they’re really pursuing a calling, and that’s lifelong.
– It’s amazing to watch and you can see why this institution is flourishing in this time from a lot of these like, you know, principles that you’ve seen true to. It’s really cool. When you think of the future student, what do you say to ’em about this institution?
– Yeah, I mean, I did this thing, right? I had four kids, so we did the college tour and everybody would use the phrase, “What colleges are you looking at?” And I try to encourage parents, don’t just look at a school, look through a school, look to the other side. See if that school is gonna pull your student through the other side with internships, with opportunities, alumni network. We have over 115,000 alumni, so we can connect them with apprenticeships, job shadowing. Don’t just look at a school, but look through a school, but still look at a school because the environment in which your child learns, whether it’s the athletic team or the classroom, the faculty member who’s mentoring, so definitely look at the school, its values and its environment, but also look through the school and see if that school is actually gonna be able to pull your student through to the other side and launch them.
– Well, I just wanna say, I mean, thank you for opening your doors here to the college tour.
– Our pleasure.
– You can see that the leadership and everything that you just said, you can see it, and it’s really fun to just watch this come alive here.
– Yeah, it was great to have you on campus.
– Dr. Kulaga, it was an honor speaking with you. It’s clear that IWU is more than a campus. It’s a Christ-centered community, equipping students to change the world. Thank you for sharing your heart and your vision.
Let’s meet Jamie, a senior strategic communication major from Indianapolis, Indiana. IWU’s close-knit Christ-centered community has been the center of Jamie’s experience. From his time as a resident assistant to leading a student-led fundraising group, he has found belonging and purpose and friendships, mentorships, and service. Tell us all about it, Jamie. Take it away.
– Alex, thank you so much for the introduction. Growing up in the hustle and bustle of a major city, finding a university with a warm, Christ-centered academic community was a top priority for me. When I stepped foot in the student center at Indiana Wesleyan University, I knew this was a place that I would call home. From conversations over coffee to attending campus events, it’s the people I get to do life with that make the IWU campus community feel special. As a former RA, I created a culture of fun and hospitality in my unit. We shared meals, made memories, and showed up for each other when it mattered. Beyond the residence halls, there are several ways to get involved and engage with other students. The Student Activities Council and many other groups across campus host events making it easy for students to connect. There’s also Ignite, our student-led fundraising organization, which gives us a chance to look beyond ourselves and serve the surrounding communities. As the current leader of Ignite, I work with my classmates and professors to raise thousands of dollars each year to support pediatric healthcare. In my time here, I’ve met people who feel like family in and outside of the classroom. IWU is a friendly melting pot of people from across the globe with unique experiences, but at our core, we’re bold about our desire to love Jesus Christ and become more like Him. There’s intentional focus on mentorship, small groups, and prayer, which creates an authentic faith-based culture where students feel seen and supported. At IWU, I’ve learned so much about myself and built meaningful friendships that feel like family. What I expected to be just another college campus in the middle of Indiana became the landmark of my story, shaping me into a leader and preparing me for my future career. But that’s enough for me. Back to you, Alex.
– Well done, Jamie. Your story shows exactly why IWU feels like home. This is clearly a community where students are known, supported, inspired to love, and serve like Christ, and equipped for their future careers. Wonderful job on your fundraising efforts to serve your local community. Keep up the amazing work, Jamie. Thanks again.
Okay, everyone, we cannot wait for you to meet Wyndham, a junior from Michigan who’s majoring in social work and honors humanities. Wyndham’s story is all about discovery and how IWU’s exploratory program, life calling classes, and supportive professors helps her find her purpose and choose a major that matches her passion for serving others. Take it away, Wyndham.
– Thanks, Alex. Hey, guys. Growing up, I always knew that I wanted to attend college. I heard far too many stories from my parents’ college days to miss out on furthering my education. My only problem, I had no idea what to study. At first, law seemed like the right path, but as I got older, I realized I wanted to pursue a helping profession. Indiana Wesleyan University’s exploratory program gave me the freedom and resources to figure out my strengths, weaknesses, and desires. With smaller class sizes and professors who cared, I felt encouraged to ask questions and choose a major that actually fit me. Pretty quickly, I knew social work was where I belonged. Since then, I’ve loved learning and getting equipped to make a difference in the world. One year, I served as a peer educator for one of our life calling classes and loved serving students. Through having conversations, organizing activities, and offering advice, many of our students chose their major within the first year. IWU makes it easy to navigate such a stressful decision and instills its students with Christ-centered faith and knowledge. I’m so thankful for the faculty and students within our faith-based life calling program. With resources like career fairs and on-campus life coaches, IWU’s exploratory program makes it easy for students to find what they love and pour to campus accordingly. During my first year, I poured my energy into working on campus as a barista and singing in our university chorale. Now, I see all the fun my parents are talking about. IWU has given me the confidence to make informed decisions about my future, whether it be my major, my career path, or what kind of coffee I want in the morning. Oh, hey, look, it’s life calling. I gotta take this. Back to you, Alex.
– Thank you, Wyndham. Your journey is a great example of how IWU helps students explore their options with confidence and faith. It’s clear Wildcats aren’t just choosing majors, they’re discovering their God-given calling in a Christ-centered community. Thank you again for sharing your story with us, Wyndham. Take care.
Let’s check in with Fabrizzio, an international student athlete from Peru who is majoring in business. As a record holding swimmer at IWU, Fabrizzio knows firsthand that Wildcat Athletics are more than just the scoreboard. With 22 varsity teams and over 20 intramural sports athletics at IWU build faith, character, and lifelong friendships. Fabrizzio, tell us more. Take it away.
– Thanks, Alex. What’s up, guys? I’m an international student athlete from Arequipa, Peru. Indiana Wesleyan University give me the chance to grow in my sport, academics, and most importantly, my Christian faith. I’m part of the IWU men’s swim team specializing in backstroke. I actually hold the school record in the 200 back. Being on the team has taught me push myself in and out of the pool and really value the people around me. We don’t just compete together, we encourage each other, build friendships, and share life as a Christ-centered community. That’s one of the things I love most about IWU. Athletics here aren’t just about performance. They’re also about character and discipleship. Beyond swimming, I’m also an ambassador with IUW’s Intercultural and Global Office, or IGO. Being from Peru, I’m able to share my culture while learning about so many others. It’s been amazing to see how our different backgrounds reflect God’s creativity. One of the best parts of my IWU experience has been the Christ-centered community. Whether it’s in chapel, small groups, or just everyday conversations, I’m able to share my story and hear the testimonies of others. Those faith connections give me encouragement and friendships that I know will last. IWU has challenged me to think outside the box, to grow as a leader and to prepare for my future career. I have learned to approach by choosing a problem and solving it in my own unique way. My dream is to use my engineering and business knowledge to make the difference whatever God leads me. IWU… That’s my line here at IWU. Driven it back to you, Alex.
– Wow, Fabrizzio. It is awesome to see the ways you’re staying connected to your culture. It’s clear that IWU Athletics does an incredible job of combining faith, excellence, and accountability, which helps student athletes become stronger disciples of Christ, preparing them for life and a career. We are all wishing you the best as you try to change the world. Fabrizzio, we know you will. Take care.
Meet Addison, a sophomore nursing major from Demotte, Indiana. This Wildcat is a first generation college student whose story shows how IWU’s Christ centered environment foster spiritual formation. from chapel, small groups, worship teams, mission trips, discipleship groups, and local ministry, Addison has discovered how faith and calling intersect. Addison, please share your journey with us. Take it away.
– Hey, thanks for the intro, Alex. What’s up, everyone? As a first generation college student, I wasn’t sure what to look for in a university, but I knew I wanted a place that shared my passion for nursing and was rooted in my Christian faith. When I visited Indiana Wesleyan, their priorities were clear and I instantly felt at home. At IWU, faith and learning go hand in hand. For me, nursing isn’t just a career, it’s a calling. I wanna serve people in developing countries by providing healthcare, education, and resources that equip them to thrive. IWU shares that vision preparing us with a world changer mindset. Spiritual formation here means connecting my faith to my calling and letting God shape me through community, service, and discipleship. IWU creates many opportunities to walk with Christ, like attending chapel right here on campus. You can also join a worship team, start a small group, or serve on a mission trip. My first year, one of my ministry classes connected me to a group that led Bible studies in the community. I met so many women who have lived varying lives, and I was able to see how every one of them longed for a good, healthy community. IWU fosters an environment that brings people together, creating meaningful connections. The people I just said hi to in passing quickly became those that I shared my life milestones with. I know I can rely on my community here, and I know they’ll support me in my efforts to become a nurse on mission. Senior year, I plan to study abroad with my nursing classmates, living and working alongside a completely different culture. Here at IWU, I found a Christ-centered university where faith and learning come together. It’s a place that strengthens your faith and prepares you for your future career. That’s all for me. Back to you, Alex.
– Thank you, Addison. Your story is a reminder that IWU is more than a university. It is a place where faith, community, and calling come together to shape world changers who keep Christ at the center. Addison, your story is inspiring. Thank you for sharing it with us, and take care.
Say hello to Daniella, a junior biochemistry and pre-healthcare sciences major from right here in Marion, Indiana. Daniella has been part of IWU science community since high school. And today she’s thriving in research labs, honors humanities, and pre-healthcare courses. Her story shows how IWU combines academic rigor with Christian faith. And we can’t wait to hear more, Daniella. You are up. Please take it away.
– Thank you, Alex. From a young age, I was surrounded by Indiana Wesleyan University. I basically grew up on this campus, which show me how faith and learning can go together. One summer I went to a science camp that sparked my interest in the natural sciences. My senior year of high school, I took a chemistry course at IWU and knew that no other program could compare. My biochemistry and pre-med courses have truly prepared me for career in healthcare and science. In my lab classes, I’m putting my critical thinking and problem solving skills to the test. One of my favorite memories was when we competed to design a battery out of scraps of metal. My partner and I created the strongest battery and beat all the other sections. Hands-on learning at IWU equips us to be world changers in science, pursuing excellence and innovation. Our professors make classes educational and engaging while integrating faith in a really intentional way. They encourage us to see God’s hand at work in the science that we study, and help us understand what it means to be a Christian scientist. We explore topics such as stem cell research and learn how to thoughtfully engage with difficult conversations. IWU has amazing opportunities for research on campus. I’ve been part of Dr. Dan Jones’ lab since my freshman year and spent a summer working full-time as a research assistant as part of the Hodson Research Institute. This intensive program challenged me and gave me real life experience as a scientist doing hands-on research, which propelled me further in my career. All of my experiences have prepared me for a career in healthcare and science, but beyond that, IWU has given me meaningful relationships with my professors and peers. I know I’ll carry those connections with me and continue to receive support as I go along on my journey. Back to you, Alex.
– Thank you, Daniella. What an incredible glimpse into IWU’s academics from hands-on research to professors who integrate faith into the classroom, Wildcats are prepared to excel and to lead with Christ-centered integrity in their careers. Best of luck on the rest of your journey, Daniella, we’re all rooting for you.
Okay, picture rows of glowing computer screens and the hum of high tech labs. That’s where you’ll find Gage, a computer information systems major from learning cutting edge cybersecurity skills to leading as vice president of the Student Leadership Council, Gage’s proving that OTC is where technology meets leadership. Gage, show us what you’ve been working on, we cannot wait to hear your story.
– Hey everyone. Thanks Alex for our introduction. Growing up, I knew I always wanted to do something with computers. Obtaining a quality education that was close to home was also one of my goals, and Ogeechee Tech checked all those boxes. As our world changes and evolves and our reliance on technology and the internet increases each and every day, information technology and cybersecurity are at the forefront of education. Not only does cybersecurity protect us, but computer science supports every aspect of modern life, from communication and entertainment to transportation and healthcare. One of the best parts of my experience here at Ogeechee Tech were the instructors. They’re not only teachers, they’re mentors who generally care about your success. Mr. Collins, an instructor at OTC, made everything a smooth transition to college. He cares about all of his students and their success. You can tell they want you to succeed not only in school, but in life. They keep us up to date about the most important innovations in the industry. The college overall is just an awesome place to be. Not only does the campus feel like home, but there is always something going on. There are many different events that are hosted by the Student Leadership Council and open to students, faculty, as well as staff. Having the opportunity to serve as the vice President of the Student Leadership Council has really been an honor. Not only has it helped me grow leadership skills and gain confidence to join the local workforce upon graduation, but also to grow as part of this community I’ve come to love. Whatever major you may desire. You’ll not only learn it, you’ll distinguish yourself while getting experience doing so. That’s my story. Back to you, Alex.
– Gage, your story shows how technical expertise and leadership go hand in hand. From mastering cybersecurity to creating a welcoming campus environment through student events, you’re making your mark both in and outta the classroom, and we cannot wait to see how you’ll shape the tech world. Keep going strong Gage, and thanks again for sharing your story.
Up next is Kelly, an OTC alum whose journey proves you can go anywhere from here, even all the way to a doctorate. After starting at Ogeechee Tech, as a busy mom of two, Kelly transferred to Georgia Southern University, earned her bachelor’s and is now a third year doctor of physical therapy student. Kelly, please share with us how OTC launched your career.
– Hey y’all. Thanks for the introduction, Alex. So growing up, I always knew I wanted to serve other people, but I had no idea what that was gonna look like. As a teen mother, college initially wasn’t in the cards, so my journey to get here looks a lot different than most, but my story gave me the life experience, motivation, and grit to be here today. After a long time away from education, I took a leap of faith with the drive to pursue something I would be passionate about and landed on being a physical therapist. In my research on how to achieve that future, I found that OTC had small classes and a great program that was not intimidating for someone who was never a great student and who now had two children in tow. Upon beginning my journey at OTC, I had a devastating accident breaking both of my arms. That’s right. At the same time. I thought it was over before it even began. But my professors really worked with me to make sure I had everything I needed to succeed. They went above and beyond to ensure my success was still possible despite my circumstances. The environment as a whole is an empowering and invaluable resource for those that have taken the roadless travel, just like me. From the encouraging bookstore staff to the incredible professors my time at OTC is a huge contributor to my future success as a doctor of physical therapy, thanks to OTCs articulation agreement with Georgia Southern, I transferred and completed my bachelor’s preparing me for the next level course load and eventually a full-time doctoral program. I couldn’t have done it without Ogeechee Tech. If you’re ever looking for a pick me up, head on over to the bookstore and you won’t leave without a smile on your face. That’s all folks. Back to you, Alex.
– Kelly, your story is a powerful example of how OTC opens doors to every level of education. From small supportive classes to earning a spot in a doctoral program, you have shown that determination plus the right start can take you anywhere and we cannot wait to see you transform lives as a physical therapist.
It’s time to meet Joe. A recent graduate of OTCs Automotive technology program. After 20 years as a truck driver, Joe made a decision to go from driving vehicles to repairing them, from mastering advanced equipment to joining the National Technical Honor Society, and even training at Mercedes in Germany. Joe’s stories about chasing opportunities. Drive it away Joe.
– Thanks Alex. Hi everyone. I’ve been a truck driver for over 20 years. I always had a passion for the automotive field. A few years ago, I decided to take a leap of fate and become an automotive technician here at Ogeechee Tech. I beginning to feel a shift in my career interest while still driving trucks, my passion for working on vehicles were becoming stronger every day. For me, the fear of failure, what held me back for so long, I was intimidated by going back into the classroom, but I was put at ease immediately by the welcoming instructors here at Ogeechee Tech. They’re not only friendly, but they teach us to use the coolest equipment every day. Between my classes and getting hands-on experience, my life is so much better now that I’m not on the road as much. Outside of our studies, OTC has a lot of different activities and clubs you can participate in. For me, I’m involved with the National Technical Honor Society. It’s a big deal for me because you have to be nominated by instructor and have good grades. Through OTCs Student Exchange program, I had the opportunity to go overseas to Germany and shadow at Mercedes. This once in a lifetime chance to see a full scale factory up close and personal was incredible. If not for OTC, it would never have happened. I know choosing to pursue my trade here at Ogeechee Tech was a great choice for me. I only wish that I was started on this path years early. There’s amazing opportunities here at OTC. Hopefully I see y’all here soon. Back to you, Alex,
– Joe, your journey shows it’s never too late to shift gears and follow your passion, from hands-on training and OTCs Auto Labs to an unforgettable experience overseas. You’ve made the most out of every opportunity. We know the road ahead is wide open for you. Keep driving towards your dream show. Thanks again.
Here’s Kiersten, a cosmetology student who turned her love for bold hair colors and beauty trends into a professional path. At OTC, Kiersten trains in a state-of-the-art salon gaining hands-on experience with real clients and expert guidance from industry professionals. Her store is all about transforming creativity into thriving future. Take it away, Kiersten.
– Thanks, Alex. Hey everyone. For the longest time, I always thought I wanted to be in medicine or a lawyer, but in high school I realized that just didn’t feel right. I’ve always been a creative person, but I never actually thought I could make a living to being artistic. When I discovered that I can actually express myself through hair, skin, and nails, my cosmetology passion took off. I’ve always been drawn to ding my hair with crazy colors and loved doing my nails. I was at a career day when I saw a cosmetology poster on an OTC table across the room and immediately jumped in. On my first day of class, I walked into a fully supplied salon and was blown away. The salon has an entire lineup to learn with, including colorful nails, makeup, skincare, and more. Right away you work with cosmetology materials and even more amazing is that we get the opportunity to practice our craft on real clients within the program salon since it’s open to the community, this experience prepares you for a career in the professional workplace and the prices for the public can’t be beat. The instructors are all top notch and many work professionally along with teaching at OTC, not only do they instruct us on cosmetology techniques, but they advise students like me who are entrepreneurially minded on how to run our businesses. I’ve learned so many things in a growing relationship with all of my peers and instructor. It feels like family. No matter what we always look out for each other and help out when needed. It just feels like a second home. Whatever major you choose, you won’t just learn about it at Ogeechee Tech, you’ll get experience doing it too. Throwing it back to you, Alex.
– Kiersten, your journey proves that following your creative spark can lead to an exciting hands-on career. From bold nail colors to professional salon experience, you’ve embraced every opportunity, surrounded by supportive classmates and instructors you are ready to make your mark in the beauty industry and we can’t wait for the world to see your artistry.