The 2024 Alumni Awards were presented during Homecoming Chapel on Friday, November 8.
John and Jennifer Garrick, Class of 1992
2024 Alumnus of the Year Award
Jennifer Garrick have dedicated over three decades to ministry, leadership and service to others, spending most of their lives furthering the gospel. Their journey began with the creation of their musical album “The Message,” which they performed across the Pacific Northwest. This album laid the foundation for J & J Ministries, which grew into an international outreach initiative, partnering with notable organizations such as the Luis Palau Association. Recognizing the expanding scope of their ministry, John and Jennifer rebranded their mission as Eternal Impact, embracing the motto “LIVE IT OUT!” to inspire others to live out the gospel in their daily lives.
In 2023, after years of impactful leadership, John and Jennifer transitioned from their roles in Eternal Impact to join Standing Stone Ministry full-time, where they continue their passion for supporting pastors and Christian leaders. With over 33 years of marriage and ministry experience, together, the Garricks have served as lead pastors, church planters, associates, missionaries and leaders in the non-profit sector. Now residing in Sisters, Oregon, they offer shepherding and retreats for ministry couples, ensuring that no leader walks alone in their spiritual journey.
Reflecting on receiving this award, John and Jennifer share, “We are deeply humbled to be honored by our alma mater in this way. Our time at NNU laid the foundation for our calling, and we are grateful to be part of a community that continues to inspire and equip others to live out their faith boldly.”
Because of their commitment to living out the gospel as creative and redemptive agents in the world, exemplifying the Christian ideals of the University, NNU is honored to present John and Jennifer Garrick with the 2024 Alumnus of the Year Award.
Amy (Bloomquist) Kennedy, Class of 2009
2024 Leon Doane Young Alumnus Award
Amy (Bloomquist) Kennedy, a dedicated leader in nonprofit ministry, has made a significant impact through her work with A Christian Ministry in the National Parks (ACMNP). Serving as Co-Executive Director, Amy has played a vital role in expanding the ministry’s reach, seeing team members in national parks grow from an average of 180 to over 270 during her tenure as a college recruiter. Her passion for investing in the development of others, coupled with her expertise in nonprofit management, has made her a favorite presenter at training conferences and a beloved mentor to many.
A proud alumna of Northwest Nazarene University (NNU), Amy earned her undergraduate degree in Communications and Business while actively participating in music and the business club. She furthered her education by obtaining a Master of Nonprofit Management degree from Regis University, where she was recognized as an Opus Student Scholar and inducted into the Nu Lambda Mu international nonprofit honor society.
Amy’s journey has been marked by resilience and a deepening relationship with God, even in the face of personal tragedy. Despite the loss of her father, twin sister, another sister, nephew and mother, Amy’s faith has continued to grow, shaping her approach to leadership and service.
Reflecting on receiving the Leon Doane Young Alumnus of the Year Award from NNU, Amy shares, “I feel increasingly humbled and honored that I would be selected for such a prestigious award. I have no words that could ever express my gratitude for those who helped make this possible. This opportunity is inspiring me to continue to dream and believe in the beautiful things God has for me.”
For her commendable accomplishments in her chosen field and for living out the values of NNU in all areas of her life, NNU is pleased to present Amy (Bloomquist) Kennedy with the 2024 Leon Doane Young Alumnus Award.
Alan Crews, Class of 1984
2024 Distinguished Service Award
Alan Crews, a 1984 graduate of NNU with a degree in Engineering Physics, has been a stalwart supporter of his alma mater for nearly three decades. Over the course of 29 years, Alan has generously donated over $200,000, benefiting 46 different designations within the University. His unwavering commitment to NNU extends far beyond financial contributions; Alan is a daily presence on campus, where he actively engages with students, faculty and staff, fostering a vibrant and supportive community.
A true advocate for the power of education, Alan has established four endowed scholarships to assist students in achieving their academic and professional goals. Among his remarkable contributions are ten fully funded scholarships that continue to provide critical financial support to students across various disciplines. These scholarships include the Alan R. Crews Volleyball Scholarship, the Alan R. Crews Counseling Scholarship, the Calvin F. Crews Scholarship and the Glenda Crews Memorial Scholarship, among others.
Reflecting on this prestigious acknowledgment, Alan shared, “Receiving this award is deeply meaningful to me, as it represents the lasting connections and impact we can all make in our community. It’s a privilege to support the next generation of NNU students and to be part of a University that continues to shape lives and futures.”
Because of his heart of service to the community of Northwest Nazarene University and his outstanding service through the years, NNU is recognizing Alan Crews as the 2024 recipient of the Distinguished Service Award.
Congratulations to the 2024 Alumni Award recipients!
