Kent Olney
chairman, department of behavioral sciences
B.A., 1977, Asbury College
M.Div., 1979, Asbury Theological Seminary
M.A., 1985, Gallaudet University
M.S., 1995, University of Oregon
Ph.D., 1999, University of Oregon
kolney@olivet.eduDr. Kent Olney serves as chairman of the Department of Behavioral Sciences and professor of sociology. He is also an ordained minister in the Church of the Nazarene. After working several years as a pastor and professor at a state university in Oregon, Dr. Olney and his family joined the Olivet family in 1995.
Dr. Olney teaches introduction to sociology, social problems, marriage and the family, and human sexuality. He has a passion for strengthening families, helping young couples develop healthy relationships and applying Biblical principles to family life. He and his wife Beth are often asked to speak on these issues at events both on and off campus.
The deaf community and sign language are significant parts of Dr. Olney’s life. Not only did he grow up with deaf siblings, but he has been active in deaf ministry, education, research and sign language interpreting. Dr. Olney has more than 20 years of experience as a sign language interpreter, and has frequently interpreted events such as weddings, Promise Keepers and various Billy Graham Evangelistic Association meetings. He periodically teaches a class called sociology of the deaf community, and has done extensive research on the historical role of religion in the deaf community.
Dr. Olney has lived and studied on the East coast, the West coast and in the Midwest. He and his wife have two young adult sons. Dr. Olney enjoys jogging, sports, traveling, table games and studying and teaching Scripture.