Hello, Kankakee County and friends from near and far! In this inspiring episode of the Kankakee Podcast, our host Drew Raisor sat down with the multi-talented Dr. Neal Woodruff—Dean of the School of Music at Olivet Nazarene University (ONU), lifelong Kankakee resident, and a beloved mentor to countless music students in our area. From the buzzing halls of Olivet to the majestic peaks of Mount Olympus, Dr. Woodruff’s story is a testament to the talent, heart, and hometown pride that define Kankakee’s musical community.
Homegrown Roots & Harmonies
Dr. Woodruff’s journey began right here in Kankakee—born in St. Mary’s Hospital, a Bourbonnais schools graduate, and eventually a student at Olivet. Reflecting on his decision to stay local, Dr. Woodruff shared:
“I really kind of prayed about it and felt like Olivet was the right fit for me. And looking back on that, I really think that was the right decision.”
Not only did Olivet become his alma mater, but, over time, a hub for his dynamic career as a teacher, conductor, and now administrator.
From Kankakee to Greece (and Beyond): Music as a Universal Language
Dr. Woodruff isn’t just a local legend—he’s also a global ambassador for music in Kankakee. Under his direction, the Olivet choir “Concert Singers” has toured the world, sharing music and service everywhere from South Korea to Brazil, and most recently, Greece.
“There is something about going to a different country, especially on a mission-type trip where it’s like you’re going to serve. The real reason you’re there is to serve.”
In Greece, the Concert Singers partnered with the Evangelical Church of Katerini, cleaned up Bible campgrounds, prepared sports ministries, and, of course, shared songs—sometimes in Greek, sometimes in English, always in harmony.
Tradition & Transformation: Ensembles That Shape Lives
A hallmark of Dr. Woodruff’s tenure is his commitment to both excellence and inclusivity in Olivet’s ensembles. From traditional Orpheus Choir to the lively Gospel Choir, and from contemporary worship to jazz, he champions the unique “personality” of each group.
“Each of them kind of takes on their own character, sort of based around the music that they’re doing, and I think that’s a good thing.”
Perhaps more importantly, Dr. Woodruff has fostered a spirit of camaraderie, not competition:
“There’s not so much a sense of competition… as it is, we’re all here to do this to the best of our ability to glorify God, you know, in whatever group we’re in.”
Favorite Kankakee Haunts
No Kankakee Podcast is complete without a nod to our local icons! Dr. Woodruff’s top picks?
- Yanaki’s: “You get the, you know, still kind of the drive-in feel.”
- Aurelio’s Pizza: A favorite for both host and guest!
- The Arts: Enjoying the Kankakee Valley Theater or Symphony is “something to take in.”
School of Music: A Well-Kept Kankakee Secret
Dr. Woodruff is passionate about expanding opportunities at Olivet’s School of Music, not just for ONU students but for the whole region—through summer music camps, innovative curriculum, and performances like Sounds of the Season.
“I think that Olivet’s School of Music is maybe kind of an untapped secret in the Kankakee area… there’s an awful lot of good music that happens on campus.”
With four choirs, a massive marching band (“the third largest in the state!”), orchestras, combos, and jazz bands, there’s something for everyone—plus scholarships for all skills and interests.
Embracing Fun: From “It’s a Thing” to T-Shirts
Dr. Woodruff’s impact goes beyond music—he’s become a campus legend for his catchphrases like “Groovy” and “It’s a thing.” So much so, students have even made T-shirts emblazoned with his sayings!
“I don’t go into it with the idea that people are going to pick up on those…But they started making T-shirts. Things like, ‘God likes right notes’ or ‘Wrong notes are a result of the fall.’”
Looking Ahead: Camps, Performances, and Tradition
If you’re a young musician, check out Olivet’s summer music camp—an immersive experience for elementary through high school, featuring everything from instrument lessons and music theory to Broadway scenes, recording arts, and more. As Dr. Woodruff emphasizes, it’s the perfect way to instill passion and plant the seed for future ONU stars.
And mark your calendars for performances like “Sounds of the Season” and “Messiah”—rich Kankakee traditions that bring the community together.
Closing Notes: Heart, Harmony, and Hometown Pride
Dr. Woodruff’s story is a celebration of dedication—to his faith, his students, and his hometown. Whether he’s conducting a concert halfway around the world or encouraging a shy singer to say “I’m at peace with that,” his influence resonates deeply here in Kankakee.
If you enjoyed this look behind the curtain of one of our community’s greatest musical ambassadors, subscribe to the Kankakee Podcast and follow us for more local inspiration.
Here’s to the enduring power of music—and to the people and places that make Kankakee County so special.
