Founders’ Day

Annually on the 3rd Wednesday of February, we honor Olivet College’s history and founder, Reverend “Father” John J. Shipherd. Father Shipherd traveled north from Oberlin, Ohio, with 39 friends and family members to create an institution of higher learning that would benefit anyone regardless of gender, race or financial means. That mission was accomplished when Olivet College was founded in 1844, accredited through a state-granted charter in 1859, and honored its first graduating class in 1863.

The basis of Olivet’s guiding principle was established by the founders when they wrote, “We wish simply to do good to our students, by placing in their hands the means of intellectual, moral and spiritual improvement, and to teach them the divine art and science of doing good to others.” This remains at the core of Olivet College’s mission, and the motto “Be More. Do Good.” echoes across campus every day.

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