Special Olympics Returns to PLNU for 23rd Year
Jennifer Niethammer is a native of Chicago, IL who earned her B.S. in Biology from Illinois State University and her M.S. in Biology from Point Loma Nazarene University. She comes with 9 years of teaching experience in a variety of settings.
Melchor Carrillo is an associate professor of music at Point Loma Nazarene University where he conducts the University Concert Choir and teaches courses in music education. Prior to his appointment at PLNU, he served for 20 years as the choral director at Redwood High School. Choirs under his direction have performed at the 2026 California All-State Music Educators Conference, the 2017 California American Choral Directors Association State Conference, and the 2016 American Choral Directors Association Western Division Conference.
Dr. John David Cope is an Assistant Professor of Music at Point Loma Nazarene University, where he teaches courses primarily in Music Theory, Composition, and Commercial Music. He is an active composer, theorist, and percussionist dedicated to creating entertaining, enlightening, and innovative musical experiences. His work spans a diverse array of media, from large-scale orchestral narratives to intimate chamber works and electronic compositions. Through his music, he seeks to provide an engaging experience for audiences and performers alike.
Professor Harden has been a member of Point Loma Nazarene University’s Ryan Library faculty since 2025. Prior she worked as a Library Assistant at the San Mateo Law Library and the Stanford Graduate School of Business Library. Professor Harden teaches information literacy and research practices and is the library’s liaison to: Business, Nursing, College of Health Sciences, and the Education department. Her scholarly interests include information seeking behaviors of students, mental health and wellness, and diversity, equity and inclusion.