John Witvliet Named Commencement Speaker for Calvin University’s Class of 2026
On Saturday, May 9, Dr. John Witvliet will return to his alma mater to give the Commencement Address to the more than 750 students who are part of the Class of 2026. Witvliet is chief officer for university missional initiatives and a professor of theology, worship, and the arts at Belmont University.
“It’s a deep honor to be asked. I look forward to this day of celebration, and the opportunity to convey words of encouragement and blessing to the graduates and their families,” said Witvliet, who notes that his remarks will draw on the tender, prophetic poetry of the Servant Songs of Isaiah.
Making an investment in Calvin
Witvliet is no stranger to the Calvin community having served at Calvin from 1997-2025. He was the founding director of the Calvin Institute of Christian Worship (CICW) and a professor of worship, theology, and congregational and ministry studies at both Calvin University and Calvin Theological Seminary. He remains a consultant for the CICW.
During his 28 years at Calvin, Witvliet taught and mentored hundreds of Calvin students in theology classes, choirs, and worship-related programs, and was a principal author of a number of important institutional documents related to faith formation, academic freedom, arts-related funding, and university structure. Under his leadership, CICW sponsored more than 150 conferences and seminars, published 140 academic and resource publications, and awarded over 1,200 grants to congregations and teacher-scholars who serve them. He’s also a sought-after speaker who has engaged academic and lay audiences all over the globe.
Earning global respect
While his accolades are extensive, his approach is why he is seen as a respected voice across many denominations and Christian traditions. Witvliet models and fosters receptive ecumenism—the idea of being firmly rooted in one own’s tradition while being open to learning from others. This posture has helped Calvin build a global reputation for openness and collaboration across many different Christian traditions.
“I am delighted to welcome John back to campus to address the Class of 2026 in this historic 150th anniversary year,” said Greg Elzinga, president of Calvin University. “Over the years, John has collaborated on work that has contributed to the flourishing of communities and congregations around the world. In his teaching, writing, and speaking, he models what it looks like to bridge divides and practice radical hospitality—characteristics and qualities we hope are evident in all of our Calvin graduates.”
Witvliet, his wife Charlotte, and their four children are all graduates of Calvin University. Witvliet also holds a master’s degree in theology from Calvin Theological Seminary, a master’s degree in music from the University of Illinois, and a doctorate in liturgical studies and theology from the University of Notre Dame.
