United Nights brings together churches, generations, and a growing legacy of servant leadership
Five years ago, a handful of Bartlesville youth pastors shared a simple vision: unite students from different churches and denominations under the name of Jesus.
That vision continues through United Nights, an annual gathering designed to help students recognize fellow followers of Christ in their schools, encourage one another, and live as one body.
Each gathering rotates among local churches, giving students the opportunity to worship together while experiencing the unique expressions of faith within their community.
This gathering was hosted by First Church of the Nazarene, with former Bruins Women’s Basketball Coach Justyn Shaw serving as the evening’s speaker. OKWU also sponsored the night’s Silent Disco, adding another opportunity for students to connect and celebrate together.
A Legacy Still at Work
As students gathered from across Bartlesville, another meaningful part of the evening was found in the many leaders who gave their time to serve and invest in them.
Among the youth pastors and leaders helping host the event were six Oklahoma Wesleyan University alumni: Nathan Wall ’14, Aubrie Haskell ‘21, Ben Bender ’21, Joseph Pena ’22, Kaleb Haskell ’22, Kylie Anderberg ’24, and Nathanael Anderberg ’25. Current OKWU students, including Brooks Hofen, Grace Colaw, Mia Veale, and others, also served throughout the evening.
Together, they offered a picture of something OKWU hopes will extend far beyond graduation: servant leadership that continues to multiply.
A Mission in Motion
The university’s mission is to “develop and send servant leaders to advance the Kingdom of God.” Seeing alumni now investing in students, building relationships across churches, and helping the next generation follow Christ is a tangible expression of that mission in action.
For the university, being part of that work is both an honor and a source of joy. OKWU’s role may have been to sponsor one portion of the evening, but the deeper connection is found in watching alumni live out the calling they were equipped to pursue. And through gatherings like United Nights, that influence continues to reach another generation.
The Legacy Continues
The story of OKWU has always been about preparing students to reach beyond themselves and make a difference for Christ. Today, alumni across Bartlesville are living that story and helping write the next chapter.
Learn more about the mission and history of Oklahoma Wesleyan University: OKWU Mission & History.
