UMO Celebrates 74 Years of Christian Higher Education at Founders Day Ceremony
November 19, 2025
Contact: Rhonda Jessup, Director of Public Relations
The University of Mount Olive community gathered on Tuesday in Southern Bank Auditorium to celebrate 74 years of Christ-centered education during its annual Founders Day event. The ceremony honored the University’s rich heritage, highlighted outstanding achievements, and reflected on the faith-filled beginnings that continue to guide UMO today. Special music for the occasion was provided by The Worship Collective and Carolina Sound.
This year’s keynote speaker was the Reverend Johnny Sullivan, Senior Pastor of Rains Crossroads Original Free Will Baptist Church and a 1983 graduate of Mount Olive College. Sullivan delivered a message titled Founded in Faith, Thriving Toward the Future, inviting the audience to consider the divine threads that have shaped both his life and the life of the University. Before speaking, Sullivan performed a moving medley of piano pieces centered on the theme of “greatness,” honoring the greatness of God and His work in our lives.
Sullivan spoke about growing up in a home grounded in Christian faith, nurtured by the church, and influenced by leaders who would later help shape Mount Olive College. He recalled the early patriarchs of the University who visited his childhood church and shared how their leadership left lasting impressions on his spiritual journey. “On the journey of life, God offers not only opportunities, but also divine moments of grace that shape our destiny,” Sullivan said. “Looking back, God had a plan, and this University and these remarkable people have abundantly blessed my life.”
Throughout his message, Sullivan identified five pillars he believes must continue to anchor UMO’s mission: Divine Purpose, Unwavering Focus, Strength and Endurance, Divine Protection, and Commitment to Excellence. He encouraged the University family to remain grounded in Christ, to seek God’s direction in all endeavors, and to remember that UMO’s earliest beginnings were rooted in faith, prayer, and only $6.17 in the bank. “May this University, our University, God’s University, continue to be founded in faith, thriving toward the future,” he concluded.
The event also included recognition of senior student-athlete Caroline Sheaffer, who received the 2025 Founders Leadership Award for her exemplary Christian character, leadership, and dedication to excellence on and off the volleyball court. UMO President Dr. H. Edward Croom noted that Sheaffer’s influence and integrity reflect the spirit and mission envisioned by the University’s founders.
The University additionally acknowledged employees celebrating milestone years of service, honoring their ongoing commitment to students, colleagues, and the institution’s mission.
The University of Mount Olive is a private institution rooted in the liberal arts tradition with defining Christian values. The University was founded by the Convention of Original Free Will Baptists. For more information, visit www.umo.edu.
