For some students, Ottawa University will change from their place of education to their place of employment after they graduate.
Amy Piersol, director of Alumni Programs, said alumni that return have a lot to share.
“It shows a loyalty and a strong affinity for the organization,” she said.
For Wendell Smith, head golf coach and assistant football coach, the tradition of OU brought him here for his education. Not only did his parents meet while students at OU; he had an aunt and sibling that attended as well.
“I always knew about Ottawa,” Smith said. “I could be involved in a lot of things: Football, choir, jazz band. It is a participatory place.”
During his time at Ottawa, Smith met his wife, Developing Resources Coordinator Rachel Smith. Three weeks before he graduated, Wendell Smith was approached to interview for a position as an admissions representative.
After working for Seaton Van Lines in Olathe, Rachel Smith returned to OU.
“My husband worked here coaching and we lived a few blocks away,” Rachel Smith said. “It just made sense to make the move.”
Rachel and Wendell Smith said that Ottawa University prepared them for a variety of aspects in the work force.
“My time at Ottawa really prepared me for the rigors and problem solving needed to work outside of the college environment,” Rachel Smith said. “As students leave it is important they remember to use the resources that Ottawa University has given them and offers them after they graduate. The time here is a blessing.”
Wendell Smith reflected on how his time at Ottawa prepared him more than he realized while he as attending.
“Senior Core was the first class I used when I graduated,” Wendell Smith said. “While you’re in the process it’s hard to see the value of the class but when I left I felt well-rounded and prepared.”
Wendell Smith said that his wife returning to campus has spoiled the couple.
“It was a strain to not see my family,” Wendell Smith said. “Our kids can be involved in the campus experience, even if it’s just walking around the track during practice while I coach. They can begin to see the value and importance of their education.”
While Rachel Smith said she enjoys her work on campus, she remembers a time when she could not wait to graduate and move on.
“It goes by fast,” Rachel Smith said. “Even though you want it to be over, there’s no place like here. It is important to cherish it because there are so many amazing opportunities and this is the only time in your life you get to live like this.”
Today, the pair works together to advise the Fellowship of Christian Athletes .