OUAZ Student Services | Ottawa University

Meet the Adawe Mentors

Chet Keizer, Adawe Center Director

Before landing in Surprise, AZ, Chet's corporate career sent him around the globe. He most recently spent 21 years with a prominent Japanese global consumer products manufacturer (fourteen of them as President of North American operations). After retiring in 2018, Chet and his wife relocated to Arizona from Wisconsin where they had lived their entire lives. Now, with some of his four children and nine grandchildren often in tow, Chet takes full advantage of the incredible Arizona weather, flying throughout the region in his small airplane.

Chet came to OUAZ in 2018. He first advised students in the Business Club as Executive in Residence. He was then asked to manage a team in Admissions. Currently, he serves as Director of the Adawe LifePlan Center. At OUAZ, Chet is fulfilling his dream of helping young people discover and maximize their true God-given gifts.

Sharon Gipe, Adawe Mentor

Sharon joined OUAZ in August 2020 after relocating to Phoenix from Denver, CO, to enjoy the mild Arizona winters. Sharon has spent many years mentoring and advising students in higher education, and is now excited to work with the OUAZ Surprise community. In the past, she worked with young people at youth camps and with Young Life, and volunteered for many years with youth and women’s ministries at her church in Denver. Sharon brings a Master’s Degree in Counseling from Colorado Christian University and a passion for helping students achieve their personal and academic goals.

When not at work, you can usually find Sharon rooting for teams across her favorite sports: baseball, football, and hockey being her top three. That’s when she’s not reading biographies or historical fiction. Sharon also greatly enjoys outdoor activities like walking and riding her bike.

Susannah Acres, Adawe Mentor

Susannah joined the Adawe Mentor Team in July 2023. She started her academic journey in Iowa, receiving a Bachelor of Science degree, in Exercise Science. She enjoyed participating in athletics such as cross country, ultimate frisbee, basketball, and other sports as well. Susannah started her career on the East Coast, working in Corporate Fitness and as an Exercise Physiologist. After moving to California, she got married and started a family. After receiving her teaching credential, Susannah taught PE, Health Education, Religion and English. She also coached volleyball and was a personal trainer.

Susannah earned her Master of Science degree, in Mental Health and Human Behavior, graduating with distinction. She is currently pursuing a PhD in Philosophy. Susannah did therapy type work for ten years while continuing to raise three children, who are currently contributing to society in marvelous ways. Susannah then proceeded to re-dedicate herself to helping young people, by providing counseling, encouragement, and helping them prepare for their futures. Our students will benefit from and be blessed by Susannah’s care and expertise.