Ifihan Olaoye

Director, Global Engagement

Hometown: I am from Nigeria, West Africa. My state/city of origin is Osun State, Iresi, but was born and raised in Oyo State, Ibadan, a city built on seven hills.

How would you describe yourself and your identity in Christ:  No matter the situation around me, deep within I feel secured knowing that I am the beloved of Jesus Christ and have been freely given all I need to excel and flourish. “Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in Me.” (John 15:4 NKJV). I therefore see my calling to grow and help those in my areas of influence; students and staffs alike nurture a life of total reliance and obedience to Christ and through these realize their highest potentials and excel. As excellence is Christ’s character.

What inspires me most about my work: I love that I work in such a multiculturally diverse university community and the richness that provides. I am able to boldly live out my faith in Jesus in my work and see its transformative impact in our students. I get excited at opportunities to serve and walk alongside students as well as staff for their faith to be deepened, and to discover, embrace and utilize their God-given gifts.

Outside work, what brings me most joy: Spending quality time with my son and other family members. Taking pleasure in the simple but magnificent beauty of nature: watching the sun rise and set, hearing the chirping of birds, smelling the sweet aroma of rose flowers etc. Listening to worship songs and praying take me out of this world literally.

What’s the best advice I’ve been given: Be quick to listen, slow to speak and ready to forgive. Never give up and always ask the question what can I do differently.

  • MSc Microbiology (University of Ibadan, Nigeria)
  • Ordained Gospel Minister (Pilgrim Miracle Church, Nigeria)
  • Master of Public Health (University of Illinois Springfield, USA)
  • Graduate Certificate in Community Health (University of Illinois Springfield, USA)
  • Graduate Certificate in Epidemiology (University of Illinois Springfield, USA)
  • M A Leadership – Christian Ministry and Healthcare (Trinity Western University, Canada)