Each year, the Mount Vernon Nazarene University (MVNU) Alumni Association recognizes alumni who reflect the university’s values through their careers and service. The 2025 honorees have been announced, with seven individuals acknowledged for their contributions in various fields.
The Distinguished Alumni Service Award is given to alumni who demonstrate humility, compassion, service, and love throughout their lives. This year’s recipient is Dr. Ronald Keith Bolender, a 1977 graduate whose career spans business and higher education. Dr. Bolender has held roles such as Dean of the School of Graduate and Professional Studies at MVNU and now leads consulting businesses focused on business development and artificial intelligence. He remains active in ministry work, particularly within Utah’s Hispanic community.
Richie and Bethany Johns, both class of 2020 graduates, received the Outstanding Young Alumni Award for their work with Studio 523 in Nashville. Their production studio focuses on faith-based film and television projects. Richie was ordained in 2023 in the Church of the Nazarene, while Bethany oversees production efforts. Together they have produced “The Promised Land,” a comedy series described as blending elements from “The Office” with “The Exodus.” They are also working on “Still Hope,” a film inspired by survivors of sex trafficking that will be released nationwide on February 5, 2026.
Rev. Kevin Jack was named recipient of the Outstanding Clergy Alumni Award for his leadership at Church for The One in Lakeland, Florida. A 2006 MVNU graduate with further studies at Trinity Seminary, Jack emphasizes helping people find purpose through faith and hosts a podcast sharing insights from his ministry experience.
The Phineas F. Bresee Pastoral Service Award went to Rev. Kent Estep, lead pastor at South Charleston First Church of the Nazarene since 2005 and an MVNU graduate from 1987. Estep has served his church in multiple roles over decades and previously sat on MVNU’s board of trustees.
Ked and Michelle Frank were honored with the Matthew 25 Servant Leadership Award for nearly thirty years of ministry focused on serving vulnerable women and children. Ked Frank founded Refuge for Women and now leads Safe Places for Women; Michelle Frank works to empower leaders within ministry organizations.
According to MVNU officials, these awards highlight alumni whose work embodies service to others: "Join us in celebrating this year’s seven honorees."
