Staff

Madeline Shepley, Planetarium Director

Madeline Shepley

Planetarium Director

Madeline is an alumna of Indiana University and Ball State University where she studied astronomy and physics. It was through these two institutions that she first got to work at planetariums and share her love of astronomy, science, and the night sky. When not teaching class or in the planetarium, you might find her reading, writing, stargazing, watching sports, or plotting her next international excursion.

Tina Bruner, Administrative Assistant

Tina Bruner

Administrative Assistant

Tina is an Olivet alumna who has served as an administrative assistant with the planetarium for 38 years! She has been married to Greg Bruner, the ONU Director of Financial Aid for 38 years and has 4 children. Tina loves traveling both internationally and domestically and has visited 49 different states. She loves to garden and dreams of starting a regenerative farm in Tennessee when she retires.

Rebecca Barak

Operator

Rebecca is a senior at Olivet studying public relations with a minor in criminal justice. When not at the planetarium, she can be found engaging in one of her many creative hobbies or marveling at the universe's vastness and beauty.

Andrew Fund

Operator

Andrew is a sophomore at Olivet studying Earth and space sciences and math. When not in the planetarium, you might find him baking or being awed by black holes.

Tori Herndon

Operator

Tori is a sophomore at Olivet studying secondary education with an emphasis in Earth and space sciences. When not in the planetarium, you might find her engaging in bowling.

Elizabeth Kooyenga

Operator

Elizabeth is a junior at Olivet studying zoology and biology. When not in the planetarium, she is often involved with Zoology Club, the Animal Care program, and Equestrian Club.

Katie Kunzer, Operator

Katie Kunzer

Operator

Katie is a sophomore at Olivet, studying geology. When not in the planetarium, she is an avid fan of all things Green Bay Packers.

Hayley O'Vell, Operator

Hayley O'Vell

Operator

Hayley is a junior at Olivet studying geology and chemistry. When she's not in the classroom or planetarium, she enjoys appreciating the beauty of nature by learning more about how it works and sharing that information with others.

Rachel Stropes, Operator

Rachel Stropes

Operator

Rachel is a junior at Olivet studying psychology. She's very excited to learn more about constellations and their stars, and when she's not in the planetarium, you are highly likely to find her dancing.