Jennie Lyons
There was nothing that could better represent Jennie’s journey as an artist than the words in our tagline of belonging and the idea of blossoming. Not only has she fought for her art conceptually but has been an example of creating not for ourselves but our Creator. Blossoms are often featured in her work and so I knew that nothing could represent her better than how I have witnessed her growth as daughter of Christ and her confidence as an artist.
I asked Jennie a few questions about her experience here at Olivet and this is what she had to say -
What made you feel like you belonged at Olivet:
I was terrified once I got here freshman year, I was full on panicking. But my floor RA, Cinthia, is who made me feel welcomed almost immediately. She was kind of like a big sister to me. Cinthia connected everyone on our floor to each other, and pretty soon we became close friends. I am still friends with the girls from my floor, and I'll probably be friends with them forever. I knew I belonged when sometime took the time and effort to invite me into a community.
What is your favorite memory at Olivet:
I have so many! One that comes to mind was from my freshman year, it had just recently snowed, and my friends and I were walking around campus in the snow. We came upon a large group of people having a snowball fight, and although we didn't know they people well, they invited us to join. Pretty soon there was a snowball fight that stretched across the campus. Complete strangers were laughing and having a good time. It fascinated me how one snowball fight could bring together so many people in such a fun and lighthearted way.
“I knew I belonged when someone took the time and effort to invite me into a community.”
Is there a person that has impacted you and how:
This person isn't really associated with Olivet, but if I hadn't come here, I wouldn't have met her. Pastor Sherry from college church has been such a blessing in my life. She has taught me so much and has truly been a guiding light. She has taught me what it means to be follower of Christ that is unashamed of their faith and loving to all people.