Bethany Magazine - Winter 2026

WINTER 2026

THE MAGAZINE OF BETHANY LUTHER AN COLLEGE

100 Years of Blessings

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Praise, gratitude for last 100 years THE YEAR 2026 MARKS THE BEGINNING OF A MULTI-YEAR CELEBRATION OF BETHANY LUTHERAN COLLEGE’S 100TH anniversary—a time set aside to remember, to give thanks, and to reflect on the Lord’s faithfulness for our beloved college across generations. A centennial is more than a date on a calendar; it is an invitation to pause and consider how God has sustained this college from its earliest days to the present, often through the quiet courage of faithful people willing to step forward in trust.

One of the key moments we will commemorate during this Centennial comes on Founders’ Day in June 2026, when we will honor the approximately fifty pastors and laymen who formed the Bethany Lutheran College Association. At a time when the Norwegian Synod (today’s Evangelical Lutheran Synod - ELS) was not yet prepared to commit to purchasing and operating the college, these individuals acted decisively. They pledged personal resources, assumed financial responsibility, and secured the property and building that would become Bethany Lutheran College. In doing so, they provided the foundation upon which everything that followed was built.

Their decision was neither cautious nor convenient. It required faith in God’s promises and confidence that Lutheran higher education—rooted in Scripture and centered on Christ—was worth the sacrifice. Before there was institutional certainty, there was conviction. Before there was synodical commitment, there was a group of believers willing to act for the sake of future generations.

Bethany’s story begins not with programs or buildings, but with faith expressed through action.

That same pattern continues today. While Bethany is now firmly established as a ministry of the ELS, the College continues to be sustained through the shared support of the Synod, alumni, congregations, donors, and friends who believe in its mission. Each generation has answered the call in its own time— through prayer, service, leadership, and generosity—ensuring that Bethany remains faithful to its mission.

As we begin this Centennial celebration, we do not look back with nostalgia alone. We look forward with confidence, trusting that the same Lord who guided those early founders continues to bless Bethany’s work today. May this anniversary deepen our gratitude for the past, strengthen our resolve in the present, and prepare us faithfully for the years yet to come.

Gene R. Pfeifer, Bethany Lutheran College President

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TABLE OF

CONTENTS T H E M AG A Z I N E O F B E T H A N Y LU T H E R A N CO LLEG E

Editor, Writer Lance Schwartz ’86 Design, Photography David Norris ’91 Please direct all correspondence, letters, news, corrections, and comments to: Bethany Lutheran College Bethany Magazine 700 Luther Drive Mankato, MN 56001-6163

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Email: editor@blc.edu Phone: 507-344-7000 Bethany Magazine is produced semi-annually by the Bethany Lutheran College Office of Institutional Communication and distributed free of charge to alumni and friends of Bethany Lutheran College. All contents © Copyright 2026 Bethany Lutheran College. Articles, images or photographs may not be reproduced without written permission.

Mission: Bethany Lutheran College is a Christian liberal arts college owned and operated by the Evangelical Lutheran Synod and committed to the teachings of the Bible as expressed in the statements of faith known as the Lutheran Confessions. Bethany Lutheran College provides Christian higher education in a challenging academic environment where personal mentoring guides students to pursue knowledge, truth, and discernment for productive and fulfilling lives.

Bethany Lutheran College prohibits unlawful sex discrimination in all education programs and activities that it operates. Concerns or questions may be directed to the Title IX Coordinator. View the College’s full Notice of Nondiscrimination at blc.edu/policies-and-notices.

Featured Articles 10 A Partnership That Still Plays On BLC Studios marks 25 seasons of broadcasting MSU Maverick Hockey

A window into the Bethany classroom

31 Distinguished Alumni Award

Dr. Benjamin Kwashi addresses the Global Church

How Bethany internships shape students for careers rooted in service and vocation

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30 Exceptional Service to Bethany

The association that preserved Bethany Lutheran College

24 Learning for Life’s Work

Department/Faculty/Staff News

28 A Growing Global Family

16 Before the Vote

19 Bearing Witness

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34 Athletic Hall of Fame inductees 36 Summer Camps at Bethany 38 Alumni News

Connect with us: @bethanylutherancollege

@bethanylutheran

Bethany Lutheran College

ON THE COVER: A century in images—moments from Bethany’s first 100 years.

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The Big Picture A soft veil of frost crowned the trees around Old Main as morning broke early one December day.

Photo by David Norris

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Bethany Magazine | Winter 2026

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Benjamin Faugstad (Music) served as guest conductor for the Minnesota River Valley Wind Ensemble at its September 28, 2025, concert.

The ensemble performed Faugstad’s first original composition for band, Octavius, marking the sixth different band to perform the work including The Mankato Area Community Band performance of the piece at its June 24 concert in Sibley Benjamin Faugstad Park (Mankato), where Faugstad also served as guest conductor. Throughout the summer, Faugstad participated in numerous professional activities. As a member of the Evangelical Lutheran Synod’s (ELS) Board for Youth Outreach, he coordinated the Lutheran Youth Honor Choir from June 14–18 on the Bethany campus and presented at the Lutheran Youth Association held July 24–27 at Eastern Washington University.

John Gunderson (Spanish, Study Abroad) presented at the Christian Study Abroad Conference held at Biola University in La Mirada, California. He introduced his Mary and Martha Framework for Faculty-Led Study Abroad Programming, a model emphasizing servant leadership and strengthening the role of service learning in international education. Gunderson John Gunderson also traveled to Siena, Italy, to conduct research for his PhD dissertation examining how service learning impacted language acquisition and cultural development.

Robert Hanna (English) continues to receive international recognition for his scholarship on Charles Dickens. The Dickensian published a review by Dominic Rainsford, Professor of LiteraRobert Hanna ture in English at Aarhus University and editor of Dickens Quarterly, highlighting Hanna’s two-volume reference work, Charles Dickens’s Nicholas Nickleby: An Annotated Bibliography. In addition, Edinburgh University Press invited Hanna to provide the sole endorsement for The Verse of Charles Dickens, the first complete collection and critique of Dickens’s poetry. Both works prominently identified Hanna’s affiliation with Bethany Lutheran College, extending the College’s reach into academic and literary circles worldwide.

Jeff Lemke (Admissions and Marketing) shared his expertise at conferences across the country. In June 2025, he presented “Ten Administrative Plans to Move Your Organization Forward” at the National WELS Education Conference. Later in the year, Lemke spoke at the Men of His Word Conference on “Faith, Football, and the Ultimate Game Plan.”

In January 2026, he presented “Communicating Your Mission with Clarity—Branding, Messaging, Jeff Lemke

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Faculty & Staff

NEWS and Community Connection” at the Lutheran Leadership Conference in Chicago, Illinois, exploring branding and institutional identity in ministry and education.

Don Moldstad (Religion) participated in a full slate of outreach activities during the summer of 2025,. His work included preaching and presenting on Bethany at the annual Volksfest gathering in Goodhue, Minnesota; leading a seminar on Christian marriage and preaching at King of Grace Lutheran Church in Waukon, Iowa; and speaking at a parents’ and teachers’ conference at Mt. Olive Lutheran Church in Mankato.

Moldstad also taught Christian art at Mt. Olive’s Vacation Bible School Art Camp,, served as a teacher and mentor at two ELS summer camps in July, and attended the ELS Youth Convention in Spokane, Washington, alongside BLC Vice President of Student Affairs Ted Manthe.

Ted Manthe Thomas Rank (Religion) presented the essay “Historical Context and Contemporary Significance of Formula of Concord Article X: Church Practices” at the ELS General Pastoral Conference held October 1–3, 2025. The presentation prompted fraternal discussion on adiaphora—those things neither commanded nor forbidden in Scripture—and their relevance to contemporary worship practices within confessional Lutheranism.

Jonathan Stadler (Psychology) presented three talks as part of the Bethany In-Depth Series, drawing from his sabbatical research on integrating the Christian faith with psychology. His September 8 presentation, “What Does It Mean to Be Human? A Modest Proposal,” outlined areas of agreement and tension between psychology and Christian theology in addressing Jonathan Stadler human identity. On September 29, Stadler delivered “Celebrating Diversity and Promoting Unity: A Christian Case for Diversity,” exploring how Christian faith grounded both diversity and unity on campus, within the Church, and in the broader community. He concluded the series on October 20 with a “Last Lecture,” connecting his academic work with personal reflections, favorite films, and selected writings of C. S. Lewis.

Shawn Stafford (Religion) marked 25 years of service as co-director of Camp Indianhead in Minnesota, a youth ministry that has shaped the faith journeys of countless ELS students.

Department News Athletics Athletic Co-Director Pat Garvin reported that 296 students participated in athletics during the 2025 fall semester, representing 43 percent of Bethany’s student body. With the addition of esports and clay target, more than half of Bethany students were engaged in activities supported by the Athletic Department.

Music Bethany faculty members and students participated in an organ crawl hosted by the Sioux Trails Chapter of the American Guild of Organists on Saturday, September 13, 2025. The group visited organs at St. George Catholic Church in St. George, Minnesota; the Cathedral of the Holy Trinity in New Ulm; and Martin Luther College in New Ulm. The organ at St. George, built in 1904 by Vogelpohl and Spaeth of New Ulm, was among the instruments featured.

Pictured during the organ crawl event were Bethany students Mathias Barents, Ellie Mittelstadt, Nathan Nikoley, and Ryan Samek, along with Prof. Mark DeGarmeaux, Rebecca DeGarmeaux, Elisabeth Urtel, and Tom Andrews, organist at the Cathedral of the Holy Trinity.

On Saturday, November 8, 2025, the Music Department welcomed 101 high school band students representing 19 different schools. Participants spent the day in rehearsals, enjoyed a campus tour, and attended a performance by the Bethany Lutheran College Concert Band. The event concluded with a public concert for families and guests.

The Music Department also hosted its first Piano and Organ Camp on Saturday, October 4,2025, welcoming twenty students to campus. Participants learned from Bethany instructors and experienced playing the Dobson Organ and Steinway pianos. The day concluded with a recital featuring selected camp participants as well as current Bethany students Hannah Caauwe and Jack DePrey. The event highlighted both the enthusiasm and discipline of these young musicians.

High school band students from 19 different schools took part in the Honor Band Concert held on November 8, 2025.

Mark DeGarmeaux

Doyle Holbird

Dennis Marzolf

Don Moldstad

Thomas Rank

Shawn Stafford

Religion At the summer 2025 Evangelical Lutheran Synod Convention, several members of the Bethany Lutheran College clergy community were recognized for milestone anniversaries of their ordination. The College gives thanks to God for their many years of faithful service to the Church and to the Bethany campus community.

Those recognized for 40 years of ordained ministry included Rev. Prof. Mark DeGarmeaux, Rev. Dr. Doyle Holbird, Rev. Prof. Dennis Marzolf, Chaplain Don Moldstad, and Rev. Prof. Thomas Rank.

Rev. Prof. Shawn Stafford was recognized for 25 years of ordained ministry.

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Angie Johnson in Ada Stokes

From left: Dr. Brian Klebig, Angie Johnson, and Jason Jaspersen were among many professors who contributed articles for the Amid the Trees series.

A window into the Bethany classroom

By Lance Schwartz ’86

SCAN & READ Amid the Trees Articles

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HAVE YOU EVER WONDERED WHAT IT WOULD BE LIKE TO SIT IN ON A Bethany Lutheran College class? Or found yourself curious about the ideas, questions, and discoveries that animate conversations in Bethany classrooms each day? Perhaps you’re simply looking for a thoughtful pause amid the busyness of life—an opportunity to engage with subjects that stretch the mind and enrich the spirit.

Amid the Trees, a series of short scholarly articles, written by Bethany professors, invites readers into the academic heart of the College.

Each piece reflects the expertise, curiosity, and careful scholarship of Bethany’s faculty, offering a glimpse into the disciplines they teach and the questions they explore alongside students. From mathematics and chemistry to music, communication, and beyond, the series highlights the depth and variety of Bethany’s academic life.

More than a collection of essays, Amid the Trees connects faces, names, and classrooms.

Readers are introduced to the professors

Bethany Magazine | Winter 2026

themselves—who they are, what they teach, and how their scholarship informs their vocation as educators. These writings mirror the classroom experience at Bethany: thoughtful, rigorous, and grounded in a commitment to truth, clarity, and meaningful inquiry.

While scholarly in nature, the articles are intentionally approachable. They are designed not only for academics, but for alumni, parents, supporters, and friends of the College who value learning and lifelong curiosity. Whether revisiting a favorite subject or encountering a new field of study, readers are invited to engage, reflect, and rediscover the joy of learning.

In a world that often rushes past depth and reflection, Amid the Trees offers a moment to slow down—to listen, to learn, and to reconnect with the intellectual mission that has long defined Bethany Lutheran College. It is an invitation to step into the classroom once more and experience the enduring strength of a Bethany education.

Continuing Postsecondary Enrollment Options

By Lance Schwartz ’86

Students enrolled for PSEO or online college classes at Bethany: From Minnesota

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Beyond Minnesota

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BETHANY ’S PARTICIPATION IN MINNESOTA’S POSTSECONDARY ENROLLMENT OPTIONS (PSEO) program continues to serve as an extension of its Christ-centered mission—welcoming students into a community where the Gospel is proclaimed and lived. Through its academic programs, campus life, and student support, Bethany remains committed to sharing the message of salvation in Christ while forming young people for lives of faith, service, and vocation. That mission remains unchanged, even as broader conversations about religious freedom and education unfold at the state level.

In August 2025, a federal court struck down a Minnesota law that had restricted Christian colleges from participating in PSEO if they required a statement of faith for enrollment. The law, passed in 2023, was successfully challenged by the University of Northwestern–St. Paul and Crown College, with the court affirming the First Amendment rights of Christian institutions. While Bethany does not require students to sign a statement of faith, the College does ask all students to uphold conduct standards aligned with its Christian mission—creating an environment where the Gospel can be clearly shared. This fall, 45 Minnesota high school students were enrolled through PSEO at Bethany, including eight who are living on campus and fully immersed in campus life.

Beyond Minnesota, approximately 150 high school students from other states—many from Lutheran schools—are also taking Bethany courses. Over the years, participation in programs like PSEO has opened doors for meaningful Gospel outreach, with some students being

baptized during their time at the College. The recent court decision affirms that Christian colleges may continue to serve students without compromising their confession, strengthening protections for institutions like Bethany as they carry out educational programs grounded firmly in their Christian identity and mission.

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A Partnership That Still Plays On BLC Studios marks 25 seasons of broadcasting Maverick Hockey, a collaboration defined by opportunity, excellence, and service

By Lance Schwartz ’86

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OR A QUARTER CENTURY, THE ELECTRICITY OF MAVERICK HOCKEY HAS BEEN MATCHED by another Mankato tradition: Bethany

Lutheran College students producing some of the region’s most dynamic collegiate sports broadcasts. What began as a modest student effort has grown into a nationally respected, Division I–level broadcast operation—one that has shaped generations of students, served a devoted fan base, and become a staple of Bethany’s broadcast studio and media arts program.

This season, BLC Studios celebrates 25 years of partnership with Minnesota State University, Mankato producing and broadcasting Maverick men’s and women’s hockey at the Mayo Clinic Health System Event Center. It is a milestone made possible by many hands over the years—but guided by a shared vision that has endured through considerable changes in technology, athletics, and higher education.

One person has witnessed—and supported—every step of that journey: Don Westphal (’87), Director of the Bethany Fund, has been the primary play by play announcer with the broadcasts since their inception and remains the only individual to have served across all 25 seasons.

A partnership built on trust and early faith When Bethany students first began producing Maverick Hockey broadcasts in the early 2000s, the operation looked very different than it does today. Equipment was minimal. Workspaces were improvised. Expectations were high, but resources were limited.

“Students literally carried every piece of equipment into the booth for each game,” Westphal recalled. “Compared to today’s state-of-the-art on-campus studio, the transformation has been remarkable.”

Play-by-play announcer Don Westphal has been with the hockey broadcast program since its inception in 2001.

Left: Bethany students work each preseason to produce an intro 'hype' video shown before each home game in the Civic Center.

Bethany students cover the action in the game and in that stands as fans reacted to a goal.

Westphal’s connection to broadcasting long predated the partnership. As a college student at the University of Minnesota, he worked on Gopher telecasts—an experience that gave him an appreciation for both the technical demands of live sports production and the formative impact it can have on students.

“For a guy whose boyhood dream was to be a TV sports broadcaster,” Westphal said, “the fact that I’ve been able to merge that interest into part of my lifelong commitment to Bethany is a true blessing I’ve never taken for granted.”

From the outset, the partnership with Minnesota State was built on trust—trust in Bethany students, and trust in the College’s commitment to preparing them well.

SCAN & WATCH MSU Men's Hype Video

MSU Women's Hype Video

A learning lab under the lights Today, Bethany students are not observers inside the arena—they are the production crew. They manage cameras, replay, graphics, audio, directing, and storytelling elements that define the Maverick Hockey experience for fans in the arena and viewers watching remotely.

“For years, our students have been blessed with a high-impact, experiential opportunity to apply their learning to a real-life, fast-paced setting,” said Dr. Jason Lowrey, vice president for academic affairs. “Bethany students from a variety of majors contribute meaningfully to bring Maverick Hockey to life on TV for the Mankato, regional, and even national stage.”

Lowrey emphasized that while students are developing and showcasing broadcast talent, the experience extends far beyond technical skill.

“While they are able to showcase their broadcast talents, they are also providing high-quality soft skills of collaboration, dedication to a polished final product, and continued pursuit to display a nationally ranked Division I hockey CONTINUED ON PAGE 12

Photo by Abby Santos

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The broadcast technology has changed dramatically over the years.

Gone are the days of having an equipment trailer that was hauled to each production (right), to a broadcast control room located in Bethany's Honsey Hall (below) and connected to the hockey arena over fiber network.

Students have had opportunities in many aspects of production. Here, alumnus Ryan Kastenschmidt ('17) interviewed former Mankato Free Press sports reporter Shane Frederick.

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program,” he said. “To say we’re proud of our broadcast team would be quite the understatement.”

For Greg Vandermause (’06), director of BLC Studios, the hockey broadcasts sit at the center of the Bethany Studio and Media Arts program’s educational mission.

“The hockey broadcast is at the heart of what we do in our whole media program,” Vandermause said. “We storytell and we problem-solve. To be able to do that in a live setting creates tremendous experience for students.”

Vandermause emphasizes preparation as the foundation of that experience.

“It lays a great foundation for whatever career path you go down,” he said. “It’s all about preparation. I always like to say, ‘Are we set up for success?’ Now, some crazy things might happen like a restart of a championship game or technology gremlins, as we call them, but are we set up for success? And then we can handle when things go out of our control.”

First-year learners to seasoned leaders One of the most powerful aspects of the Maverick Hockey partnership is the visible transformation of students over time. First-year students may begin learning camera basics or assisting behind the scenes. By their senior year, many are directing broadcasts, managing crews, and making real-time decisions that shape the entire production.

“I’ve seen a remarkable transformation in the sophistication and expectations of delivering a top-level production.

And with it, the quality of the broadcast has certainly developed into a high-end network level ,” Westphal said.

“As expectations have gone up, the talent and commitment of our students has met that challenge.”

Vandermause agrees. “By senior year, students are leading full Division I broadcasts. That kind of responsibility changes them.”

As partners with Minnesota State, students also learn that their work represents more than themselves.

“We are responsible for how people view the Minnesota State program,” Vandermause said. “Whether they’re watching online, in the arena, or engaging on social media, we have a responsibility to showcase them well. That pressure is good. It brings out the best in us.”

Where careers are forged Over 25 seasons, the broadcast booth has become a launching pad for Bethany graduates entering the media industry—and beyond. Alumni who once worked long weekends inside the arena now hold positions with national networks and professional sports organizations,

He credits the Maverick Hockey broadcasts with preparing students for a rapidly changing industry.

“Training young men and women to learn and adapt— that’s the legacy of the hockey program,” Hardin said.

“Those skills are still being taught today, and that’s why the program continues to be successful all these years later.”

Hardin also pointed to the relational impact of the experience.

“I’m immensely proud to have been part of Maverick Hockey at Bethany alongside some of my closest friends,” he said.

Isaac Rice (’13), also now with ESPN, echoed that sentiment. “You can learn the theory of television anywhere.

What set Bethany apart was actually doing the work— cameras, audio, graphics, replay, producing, directing. That experience really sets you up for the future.”

Bethany alumni Cody Hardin (left) and Isaac Rice worked together on a production for ESPN in December 2025. Photo courtesy of Cody Hardin

carrying with them lessons learned under pressure.

“I simply would not have the career I have without my time on Maverick Hockey,” said Cody Hardin (’11), now with ESPN. “That experience taught me how to be part of a broadcast crew—learning the concepts and workflows of every position, understanding how each role connects to the next, and figuring out how to communicate clearly when the stakes are high.”

Mikel Lauber ('05), Director of Innovation Strategy at WOWT Television (Omaha), credits the program with shaping both his career path and professional confidence.

“When I transferred to Bethany, I got involved with the Maverick Hockey program as a way to try something new and meet some friends,” Lauber said. “I couldn’t have imagined it would become the launchpad for what has been a 20-year career in an industry I’ve loved.”

Lauber emphasized that the experience extended far beyond technical training.

“The Maverick Hockey program provided the tools and encouragement we needed to be successful, but more importantly, it trusted students to make decisions, be creative, and learn from our mistakes,” he said. “Because of that, I came away with a set of skills that prepared me thoroughly for a career that demands much—and never stops changing.”

Hardin emphasized that the value of the experience extended far beyond technical skills.

“It was never about the gear or equipment, but it was learning how to be on a broadcast crew, learning the concepts and workflows of each position and role, learning how to communicate with each other and how to execute in high pressure situations.”

Recognizing service behind the scenes As Bethany and Minnesota State celebrate the 25-year milestone, Minnesota State University also recognized Vandermause with the Jim Schaffer Service Award, honoring behind-the-scenes contributions to Maverick Athletics.

The award reflects Vandermause’s leadership since returning to Bethany in 2013—but also the continuity of a partnership sustained by many hands who’ve been involved with the broadcast for the past quarter of a century.

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Bethany alumnus Michael Lauber was the commencement speaker for the class of 2018.

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Videographer Ben Stelter ('23) gathered promotional video for Hockey Day Minnesota 2022, held at Blakeslee Stadium at Minnesota State University, Mankato CONTINUED FROM PAGE 13

For Vandermause, the recognition underscores the shared nature of the work.

“It’s been a great partnership and such a blessing for Bethany for all these years,” he said.

Looking ahead with gratitude The media landscape has changed dramatically over the past 25 years. Technology has evolved. Distribution models have shifted. Expectations have risen.

Yet through every change, the partnership between Bethany Lutheran College and Minnesota State University has remained steady.

“Bethany’s partnership with Minnesota State has been a blessing for our students and for the wider Mankato community,” said Dr. Gene Pfeifer, President of Bethany Lutheran College. “For 25 seasons, our students have gained real-world experience in one of college hockey’s most exciting environments. We’re proud of the role Bethany plays in producing these broadcasts and preparing students for a variety of meaningful vocations.”

As BLC Studios looks ahead, innovation continues—new technology, expanded student leadership, and evolving storytelling approaches. But the heart of the program remains the same.

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Twenty-five seasons in, one thing is clear: BLC Studios is not just broadcasting Maverick Hockey. It is forming students, serving a community, and—through faithful stewardship across generations—building the next generation of storytellers, creators, and leaders, one game at a time.

Daniel Mundahl, Bethany senior vice president for administration (left), and Greg Vandermause, Bethany studio director, are pictured following Vandermause’s recognition

by Minnesota State University for his behind-the-scenes contributions to Maverick Athletics and the hockey program. Mundahl was instrumental in establishing the partnership between Bethany and Minnesota State in 2000. Photo courtesy of Greg Vandermause

Learning through

Art & Imagination

By Lance Schwartz ’86

EDUCATION MAJORS IN THE INTEGRATING THE FINE ARTS CLASS WELCOMED ABOUT thirty young learners to the Bethany Lutheran College campus for a hands-on exploration of art, language, and imagination. Held on Wednesday, October 22, 2025, the experience invited children to discover the creative styles of artists Claude Monet and Georges Seurat before expressing their own ideas through watercolor, paint, and oil pastels.

The activity helped children see how storytelling and art connect—a key principle in fostering curiosity and creativity at an early age. Guided by Bethany’s education students, the young participants experienced the joy of creating something uniquely their own while also learning about color, texture, and design.

Research supports what teachers witness firsthand: engaging in the arts builds new pathways for learning. Art encourages imagination, fine-motor development, and emotional awareness while strengthening children’s ability to think critically and express ideas beyond words.

“The arts give children a powerful way to express ideas, explore emotions, and make connections to the world around them,” said Dr. Carrie Pfeifer, professor of education at Bethany Lutheran College. “When our education majors design and lead these kinds of experiences, they learn how to nurture creativity in their future classrooms while helping children see learning as joyful discovery. It’s a blessing to watch both groups—college students and young learners—grow together through art.”

Bethany’s teacher-preparation program emphasizes the integration of creativity and faith across all subjects.

Experiences like this allow future educators to practice teaching methods that reach the whole child—mind, heart, and soul—while also reflecting the beauty and order of God’s creation.

Peyton Nikoley worked with a student during the hands-on portion of the day.

Bethany students assisting with the art classes, Arinn McGee (above) and Allison Rygh.

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Before the Vote The association that preserved Bethany Lutheran College

By Lance Schwartz ’86

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HE PATH TO BETHANY LUTHERAN COLLEGE’S FOUNDING IS MORE THAN A BIT TWISTED AND FULL OF ROADBLOCKS. Professor Emeritus Erling

Teigen outlines the winding road in his forthcoming Bethany history book High Amid The Trees.

In the spring of 1926, Bethany stood at a pivotal moment in its history. Ownership of the college had not yet been assumed by the Norwegian Synod (ELS), and no formal synodical action had been taken to secure its future. Yet a group of pastors and laymen recognized the urgency of the situation and acted decisively to preserve the institution for confessional Lutheran higher education.

Early correspondence reflects the growing momentum behind the idea of forming an educational association within the Synod. Pastor A. J. Torgerson wrote to Synod President G. A. Gullixson affirming support for the plan, calling it “a very good one” and encouraging immediate action. Torgerson also reported that representatives of the Norwegian Lutheran Church of America indicated that approximately $100,000 remained from the sale of the Synod owned Red Wing Ladies Seminary property—funds that suggested the financial feasibility of acquiring Bethany.

On March 4, 1926, Pastor J.W. Pieper, a Wisconsin Synod pastor from Stillwater, Minnesota, outlined a concrete proposal in a letter to then Bethany Ladies College President Holden Olsen, detailing how the Norwegian brethren could purchase the college. The plan included an initial payment followed by annual installments, demonstrating that acquisition was not only possible but Holden Olsen achievable through coordinated effort.

Momentum increased the following day when the Iowa Pastoral Conference of the Norwegian Synod unanimously resolved to join with other conferences to organize an educational association. While not committing to any single institution at that time, the conference supported collaboration and recommended a general meeting to be held later that month in Minneapolis.

That broader conversation culminated on April 15, 1926, with a meeting at Bethany College in CONTINUED ON PAGE 16

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Mankato. Representatives from across the Synod attended, including pastors from Chicago, Minneapolis, Iowa, Albert Lea, Norseland, Madison, and several Minnesota communities. One layman was present as well—Oscar Swenson, a Norseland, Minnesota, farmer and longtime member of the Minnesota Legislature. Pastors Pieper and Winter, a former pastor in Stillwater and now at Mankato's Immanuel Lutheran Church, and a representative of the Mankato Chamber of Commerce attended as guests.

According to the official minutes recorded by Rev. Norman A. Madson, the group adopted a resolution to organize an association “of fifty men or more” who would assume responsibility for Bethany. The Bethany College Corporation agreed to deed the institution to this association for a purchase price of $60,000, with $20,000 to be paid as soon as possible and the remaining $40,000 financed through a loan arranged by the Bethany board. Copies of the resolution were sent to pastors throughout the Synod, inviting participation in this shared responsibility.

S. C. Ylvisaker The significance of that moment was later recalled

by Bethany President Dr. S. C. Ylvisaker in a 1947 article marking the College’s twentieth anniversary. As discussions stalled and some participants prepared to leave, Ylvisaker proposed a simple but decisive course of action: each member would return home and personally recruit support for an association committed to buying and operating Bethany. If fifty members could be secured, the school would be preserved—not only for the Norwegian Synod but for the broader mission of confessional Lutheran higher education.

The financial support that made this effort possible came through the newly established Bethany Lutheran College Association. Association leaders agreed to form the association and contribute so that the effort would proceed.

The Association treasurer recorded total contributions of $8,965, which—together with a bank loan—was sufficient to make the down payment for the College. Adjusted for inflation, this amount would equal approximately $162,000 in 2025 dollars. While several gifts reached one hundred or two hundred dollars, the majority were contributions of fifty or twenty-five dollars, along with a few smaller amounts. At the 1926 synod convention, the Association formally offered the college to the synod.

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1928 Evangelical Lutheran Synod Convention held at Bethany.

While the synod did not act immediately, it adopted a resolution declining the offer at that time, encouraging further discussion throughout the synod, and expressing support that left open the possibility of reconsideration the following year.

For the 1926–27 academic year, Bethany Lutheran College was owned and operated by this association of pastors and laymen—before the Norwegian Synod formally voted to purchase the institution. Their willingness to act, assume financial responsibility, and govern the college during a time of uncertainty ensured Bethany’s continuity and positioned it for its future as a synodical institution.

In later years, the college formally honored the members and pastors of the Bethany Lutheran College Association through the dedication of the Bethany Memorial Library.

Both the original Memorial Library building, constructed in 1967, and the current Memorial Library, dedicated in 1998, stand as lasting tributes to those who stepped forward in 1926 to secure Bethany’s future.

Bethany Lutheran College owes its existence at this critical juncture to God’s work through the foresight, faith, and commitment of those individuals who stepped forward when formal structures had not yet caught up to the need.

Their leadership laid the foundation upon which the Synod would later build—and upon which Bethany continues to stand today. These early supporters of Bethany Lutheran College will be recognized this coming June at a Founders' Day event during the Evangelical Lutheran Synod Convention.

Bearing Witness

Rev. Dr. Benjamin Kwashi

Dr. Benjamin Kwashi addresses the global Church

By Lance Schwartz ’86

REV. DR. BENJAMIN KWASHI, RETIRED ARCHBISHOP OF THE ANGLICAN CHURCH in Nigeria, was welcomed to the Bethany Lutheran College community on October 22, 2025, for an evening that offered both sobering insight and thoughtful reflection on the global Church.

Speaking to students, faculty, staff, and guests in Trinity Chapel, Dr. Kwashi shared firsthand perspectives on the persecution faced by Christians in Nigeria—realities shaped by political instability, religious extremism, and persistent violence directed at Christian communities. His presentation also addressed ongoing challenges within his own church body, particularly the struggle to uphold the inerrancy of Scripture amid internal theological pressures.

Presented in a free conference context and sponsored by the ELS Center for Apologetics and Worldviews, the event invited listeners to engage thoughtfully with issues that extend far beyond Bethany’s campus. Dr. Kwashi’s remarks encouraged careful consideration of what it means to confess faith faithfully in difficult circumstances and to remain anchored in Scripture when cultural and

institutional forces push in other directions.

SCAN & For many in attendance, the WATCH evening served as a reminder that the Church is both global and deeply interconnected. While the challenges described were geographically distant, the themes of perseverance, confession, and faithfulness resonated close to home. The event aligned closely with Bethany’s commitment to Christian higher education that is rooted in truth, attentive to the world, and shaped

by Scripture.

Dr. Kwashi’s visit offered more than information; it provided an opportunity to listen, reflect, and grow in awareness of the lived experiences of fellow Christians around the world—an experience that continues to inform and strengthen Bethany’s academic and spiritual community.

For those interested in seeing Dr. Kwashi’s presentation—you many watch the full recording online by scanning the QR Code or visit apologeticscenter.org.

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A Century of Blessings Bethany Lutheran College prepares for a joyful Centennial Celebration

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By Lance Schwartz ’86

WHEN BETHANY LUTHERAN COLLEGE MARKS THE TWO-YEAR-LONG COMMEMORATION of its

continue through 2027 as the College and Synod mark a full century of shared ministry.

100th anniversary in June 2026, it will do so with a deep sense of gratitude—and with a celebration worthy of the faithful visionaries who founded the school. In 1926, a small band of pastors and parishioners from old Norwegian Synod congregations stepped forward in faith, pooling their own resources to purchase the hilltop campus that would become Bethany Lutheran College. Their generosity opened the doors for the first students that very fall. One year later, in 1927, the Norwegian Synod (Now Evangelical Lutheran Synod) officially purchased the college, formally establishing Bethany as a school of the Synod and setting its mission firmly on Christ-centered education.

This twofold beginning now becomes the joyful framework for a two-year centennial celebration—one that will begin with honoring the founders in June 2026 and

A year of anticipation (2026)

Bethany Magazine | Winter 2026

Bethany’s centennial journey begins quietly in early 2026 with meaningful preparations designed to engage the campus, alumni, and community. January brings the release of the official Centennial Logo—an emblem that will appear across campus, publications, apparel, and commemorative items in the months ahead. By spring, anticipation builds when video interviews begin, capturing memories and reflections that will help tell Bethany’s story in the voices of those who lived it. May marks the launch of the Centennial website, a digital home for news, stories, archival features, and event details that will carry the celebration forward.

Honoring the founders (June 2026)

A gala for the century (March 2027)

The heart of the centennial celebration begins where Bethany’s own story began—on Founders' Day. In June 2026, during the annual ELS Synod Convention, the campus community and convention attendees will gather to recognize those whose sacrificial giving made Bethany possible. Special recognition and historical reflections will mark the day. New Centennial light-pole banners will adorn the campus, and the striking Centennial Medallion will make its debut as a keepsake honoring this once-in-a-lifetime milestone.

One of the most significant events of the centennial takes place in Spring 2027 with the Centennial Gala. This elegant evening will celebrate Bethany’s enduring mission and look ahead to its future. The Gala also marks the public launch of the Centennial Campaign, an opportunity for alumni and friends to support the next 100 years of Christ-centered education at Bethany.

Season of reunion, creativity, community (Fall 2026)

Summer of remembrance and recognition (June 2027)

The momentum continues into August with the Centennial Edition of the Bethany Sports Classic Golf Tournament—a spirited start to a season filled with fellowship and celebration.

September ushers in one of the signature events of the centennial: a Centennial-themed Fall Festival scheduled for September 25–27. This beloved weekend will take on special significance as alumni return to campus, families gather, and the campus welcomes neighbors and friends. Fine Arts will join the celebration with a 1920s-themed theatre production, paying tribute to the era in which Bethany was founded. Music, art, and theatre alumni will return for reunion performances and exhibits, transforming the campus into a living showcase of Bethany’s artistic gifts.

Throughout the fall, campus history will come alive as a permanent display is installed in Honsey. Centennial apparel, including commemorative T-shirts, will help students and alumni wear their Bethany pride throughout the year.

October brings a campus-wide Day of Service, inviting students, faculty, staff, alumni, and community members to give back in Christlike love—embodying the very mission that guided Bethany’s founders 100 years earlier.

December rounds out the year with the release of individual building history displays and the arrival of the Centennial Christmas Ornament—another treasured keepsake for the Bethany family.

Bethany on the road (2026-2027) Recognizing that Bethany’s alumni network stretches across the country, the College will host a series of “Bethany on the Road” gatherings. Beginning in late 2026 with events in the Twin Cities and Madison, these celebrations expand in winter and spring 2027 to Fort Myers, Phoenix, Milwaukee, Seattle, Sioux Falls, Des Moines, and Denver. These gatherings offer alumni and friends an opportunity to reconnect, reminisce, and share in the joy of Bethany’s milestone year—no matter where they live.

A special Reunion Weekend, scheduled alongside the 2027 ELS Synod Convention, will include a banquet, historical reflections, a book signing by Centennial author Erling Teigen, and the presentation of official commendations and governmental recognitions honoring Bethany’s century of service.

Celebrating, sharing and looking ahead (Fall 2027) The centennial celebration concludes in fall 2027 with a series of events designed to connect Bethany to the broader Mankato region. A Greater Mankato Growth community event will bring local business leaders, partners, and neighbors to campus, and regional business spotlights will highlight the ways Bethany alumni contribute to economic and community life.

A celebration rooted in gratitude Across these two years, Bethany Lutheran College will do far more than commemorate dates or unveil displays.

The Centennial will be a celebration of the College’s foundation in faith, place in the community, and the countless lives shaped by the College’s unwavering mission. It will honor the courage of those who founded and sustained Bethany, celebrate those who continue its work today, and inspire those who will lead it into the next century.

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Where Faith Fe

By Lance Schwartz ’86

THERE ARE MOMENTS IN LIFE THAT MARK BOTH AN ENDING AND A BEGINNING. Sending a son or daughter off to college is one of them. For students, it is a step toward independence. For parents, it is an act of trust. And for families connected to Bethany Lutheran College—whether for the first time or for decades—it is often a moment filled with memory, meaning, and hope.

“Going to college and moving away from home is a huge deal,” Bethany freshman Lydia Bursch shared. “It’s a huge transition in life.”

The emotions are familiar to generations of Bethany families. There is excitement, yes—but also the quiet ache of change. “It’s going to be strange to just not have Lydia at home,” Katie Bursch admitted. “But I feel super excited that she gets to come to Bethany. She’ll get that Christian aspect.”

That confidence rests on something deeper than programs or facilities. It rests on faith.

For many families, choosing Bethany is about continuity—about knowing that the Christ-centered foundation nurtured at home will be supported and encouraged during college. “We want him to obviously learn a lot,” Scott Roeber said about his freshman son Leo. “But we also want his faith to continue to grow. That was a big part of why he chose to go to school here— and we’re happy that he did.”

Parents often speak of reassurance once they step onto campus. “Being on campus with him right now has helped ease my mom heart,” Katie (’95 Browning) Roeber shared. “To know that he’s in a great place.”

That sense of peace is not new to Bethany.

Alumni recognize it immediately. It is the same feeling they remember—the same chapel doors, the same conversations, the same steady emphasis on Christ at the center of learning and life.

Lydia Bursch

“Going to college and moving away from home is a huge deal. It’s a huge transition in life.”

- Lydia Bursch

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eels Like Home “When Lydia started looking at colleges, I was open SCAN & to her going anywhere,” Tom WATCH Bursch reflected. “But as it got closer to her choosing, I Video really started to feel strongly featuring the that I wanted her to go to a students and Christian college.” parents in Students understand that this article. choice, too. “One of the most important values my parents instilled in me from a young age is keeping my faith at the center of everything I do,” Lydia Bursch said.

“You can tell when a family has God at the center of it—and that goes really far,” noted Leo Roeber.

College brings new responsibilities and independence—sometimes as simple as doing

one’s own laundry—but it also brings growth, friendships, and discovery. At Bethany, those experiences are shaped within a community that takes faith seriously, not as an add-on, but as the heart of campus life.

“I’m really excited to make new friends here,” shared Lydia, “and to experience independence and new things with them.”

For parents, Bethany offers confidence. For students, it offers belonging. And for alumni, it offers reassurance that the place they remember—the place that shaped them—remains faithful to its mission.

Choosing Bethany Lutheran College is not just about the next four years. It is about entrusting a community to walk alongside students during a formative season of life, grounding independence in faith and growth in Christ.

At Bethany, faith doesn’t simply continue. It still feels like home.

Leo Roeber

“We want him to obviously learn a lot. But we also want his faith to continue to grow. That was a big part of why he chose to go to school here—and we’re happy that he did.”

- Scott Roeber 23

Learning for Life’s Work Aliya Kehler, a psychology major with minors in communication and Spanish, is completing a fivemonth internship at Mankato’s Holland Center, where she is gaining hands-on experience as a behavioral therapist working with children ages 2–18 on the autism spectrum. Through applied behavior analysis (ABA), she supports skill development and improved communication.

How Bethany internships shape students for careers rooted in service and vocation

By Lance Schwartz ’86

INTERNSHIPS REFLECT A BROADER UNDERSTANDING OF EDUCATION AS PREPARATION for a life of purpose and service. Rather than serving as a final requirement before graduating from Bethany Lutheran College, internships are approached as formative experiences—intentional opportunities for students to apply their academic learning within the context of real work, real responsibility, and real service to others.

Rooted in Bethany’s Christian liberal arts mission, the College’s internship program invites students to connect knowledge with purpose through meaningful, real-world experience. Students are encouraged to consider how their God-given gifts, academic preparation, and personal values intersect with the needs of the world around them.

Purposeful growth, expanding opportunity In recent years, Bethany’s internship program has experienced steady growth. Student participation has

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increased as more academic departments now require an internship for graduation, encouraging students to engage earlier and more thoughtfully in the process. This shift has resulted in stronger placements, clearer vocational direction, and deeper partnerships with employers.

Internship opportunities now span Southern Minnesota, the Twin Cities, and a growing number of out-of-state locations. Students pursue placements across a wide range of fields, including business, marketing, creative media, music and the arts, health care, human services, technology, law, education, athletics, engineering, manufacturing, public service, and ministry. Employers in these sectors—particularly nonprofits, schools, creative organizations, arts groups, and small businesses—have consistently shown strong interest in Bethany students.

Preparing students for more than a job Behind each successful internship is careful preparation.

Bethany students receive individualized career coaching through the Career Development Office, including

guidance on identifying appropriate opportunities, refining résumés and cover letters, and practicing interview skills.

Students are supported throughout the internship search and registration process, ensuring placements align with academic requirements and professional goals.

In addition, students complete a Vocational Seminar course designed to help them synthesize Bethany’s Institutional Objectives and apply them to lives of Christian vocation. Through reflection on their liberal arts education and coursework within their major, students develop a deeper understanding of how their Bethany experience prepares them for vocational pursuits in both work and life. The course culminates in a portfolio project that brings together these elements as students transition from academic study to professional endeavors.

This holistic approach reflects Bethany’s mission-driven, understanding of vocation as more than employment.

Rooted in the conviction that all work is a calling from God, students are encouraged to recognize their gifts and use them in service to their neighbors, practicing faithful stewardship in every aspect of life. In this way, Bethany prepares graduates not only to enter a profession, but to navigate adulthood with confidence, faith, and a deep sense of purpose.

What employers consistently notice Across industries and locations, employer feedback has been remarkably consistent. Supervisors frequently describe Bethany interns as dependable, prepared, eager to learn, and capable of producing high-quality work with minimal supervision. They praise students for strong communication skills, initiative, creativity, and the ability to solve problems independently while contributing positively to team goals.

What often stands out most, however, is character.

Employers regularly comment on interns’ humility, integrity, teachability, and respect for workplace culture. Many note that Bethany students do not simply complete assigned tasks—they elevate the environment around them, demonstrating maturity, professionalism, and a genuine commitment to serving others.

These observations help explain why so many organizations continue to welcome Bethany students semester after semester. Over time, internship relationships mature into trusted partnerships, and supervisors come to expect that a Bethany intern will arrive ready to listen, learn, and contribute. In a workplace culture that often prizes speed and self-promotion, employers frequently describe Bethany students as teachable, steady, and respectful—traits that make teams stronger and the learning environment healthier.

Angie Phares, Director of Career Development, works with students to secure internships .

From internship to employment For many students, internships become a direct pathway to employment. Employers frequently invite interns to extend their placements, return for additional terms, or transition into part-time or full-time roles. These outcomes affirm both the readiness of Bethany students and the effectiveness of the College’s mission-driven approach to professional preparation.

Even when internships do not result immediately in job offers, they often clarify students’ vocational direction, expand professional networks, and provide valuable insight into the environments where students thrive. A student may discover a new interest, confirm a calling, or realize that a particular setting is not the best long-term fit. In each case, the experience becomes a meaningful step forward—grounded in real work and real feedback— rather than a theoretical guess about the future.

Ongoing support and meaningful reflection Internship success is supported through ongoing relationships and thoughtful evaluation. The Career Development Office maintains communication with internship sites throughout the semester, oversees documentation, and serves as a resource for both students and supervisors if questions or concerns arise.

At the conclusion of each internship, supervisors complete a formal evaluation that provides structured feedback on the student’s performance, professionalism, communication, and growth. These evaluations are shared with academic advisors and used alongside assigned coursework to assess learning outcomes and guide future CONTINUED ON PAGE 26

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Braden Greenberger, an engineering sciences major, is completing an internship at Blue Star Power Systems in Mankato, where he is gaining hands-on experience with a power generation systems integration specialist that manufactures complete diesel and gaseousdriven generator sets ranging from 20 to 2,000 kWe. CONTINUED FROM PAGE 25

development.

When challenges occur—as they naturally do in any real-world learning experience—the emphasis remains on growth rather than perfection. Students receive guidance to reflect on expectations, communication, and professional habits, using feedback as a tool for continued improvement and vocational clarity. In this way, internships become both a proving ground and a classroom—one where students learn to receive feedback with humility and to respond with maturity.

Looking ahead: Strengthening connections As the internship program continues to evolve, Bethany is focused on expanding paid internship opportunities, strengthening alumni-driven partnerships, and broadening access across all academic majors. One initiative already underway is Viking Careers: Jobs & Internships, a new platform developed in collaboration with Alumni Relations.

The initiative provides a dedicated space for Bethany alumni to share job and internship opportunities connected to their workplaces, creating direct pathways between alumni and current students. By strengthening professional networks within the Bethany community, the initiative reinforces a culture of mentorship, generosity, and shared investment in student success.

A program rooted in gratitude and calling For Angie Phares, Director of Career Development, the work of guiding students through internships is deeply meaningful—both professionally and personally.

“On a personal level, I feel truly blessed each semester 26

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to walk alongside students as they discover their strengths, grow in confidence, and take meaningful steps toward their vocations,” Phares said. “This work is never done alone. It happens through the faithful support of faculty, staff, advisors, and internship supervisors who pour into our students with guidance, encouragement, and care. Together, we help create opportunities that shape futures, open doors, and allow students to see how God may be calling them to serve through their work.”

She notes that the most encouraging moments are often the simplest: an employer who reaches out unprompted to praise a student’s professionalism, a supervisor who asks if an intern can stay longer, or a student who returns from a placement with clearer confidence and direction. Those moments underscore the value of the program not only for students, but also for the organizations and communities they serve.

“Every time a student succeeds or an employer celebrates their contributions, I am reminded why this program matters— and why it is an honor to be part of it,” Phares added.

Preparing Students for Faithful Service At its heart, Bethany’s internship program reflects a deeply held conviction: that education prepares students not only for careers, but for lives of faithful service. Internships become spaces where faith meets practice, where classroom learning becomes lived experience, and where students begin to discern how their strengths and passions can be used for the good of others.

Through thoughtful preparation, meaningful opportunity, and strong relationships, Bethany continues to equip students to serve with excellence—wherever God may call them next.

Preparing Students for Lives of Purpose

By Lance Schwartz ’86

AT BETHANY LUTHERAN COLLEGE, PREPARATION FOR LIFE AFTER GRADUATION has always meant more than helping students find a job. Rooted in the Lutheran understanding of vocation, Bethany encourages students to see their lives—both professional and personal—as lived in faithful service to God and neighbor. This conviction shapes how students learn, how faculty teach, and how experiences such as internships are understood and valued.

“This work is ultimately about students,” said Julie Kjeer, dean of faculty at Bethany Lutheran College. “When vocational reflection is woven throughout their education, students are better able to see how their learning connects to a life of purpose and service.”

In recent years, Bethany has been especially intentional in strengthening this vocational focus across the curriculum. Through a faculty development initiative supported by the Network for Vocation in Undergraduate Education (NetVUE), the college engaged in a year-long effort to deepen and align faculty understanding of vocation as it is grounded in Lutheran theology and expressed in Bethany’s mission. This work included a focused faculty retreat, an ongoing Faculty Learning Community, and a series of faculty mini-grants designed to encourage thoughtful integration of vocational reflection into teaching and advising.

“This initiative allows us to be more intentional about vocation by strengthening and aligning work that is already central to who we are,” Kjeer said. Rather than introducing something new, the initiative helped faculty develop a shared language and common framework for vocation that moves beyond career placement and toward a more holistic understanding of calling.

The goal of this work was to help students connect their academic studies to a larger sense of purpose. Faculty

explored how coursework, mentoring, and experiential learning could invite students to reflect on their God-given gifts, responsibilities, and opportunities for service—both during college and throughout their lives.

That focus continues to shape Bethany’s internship program today. Internships are understood not simply as professional requirements, but as formative experiences where students practice responsibility, integrity, and service in real-world settings. Faculty and staff help students reflect on what they are learning about themselves, their neighbors, and the ways their work can contribute to the common good—an extension of Bethany’s mission to educate students for lives of service in their homes, churches, and communities.

Bethany has long prepared graduates not only for

Bethany Lutheran College’s vocational initiatives have been supported by the Network for Vocation in Undergraduate Education (NetVUE), a program of the Council of Independent Colleges, with funding from Lilly Endowment Inc.

When vocational reflection is woven throughout their education, students are better able to see how their learning connects to a life of purpose and service.

– Julie Kjeer, Dean of Faculty

successful careers, but for lives marked by purpose, confidence, and faithful service. By investing in a deeper, shared understanding of Christian vocation, the College continues to ensure that experiences like internships are integrated meaningfully into a Bethany education— preparing students to navigate adulthood with clarity, resilience, and a strong sense of calling.

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Shortly before classes began in fall 2025, 71 first-year international students arrived on campus for orientation sessions.

A Growing Global Family International enrollment reaches historic levels

By Lance Schwartz ’86

OVER THE PAST DECADE, INTERNATIONAL ENROLLMENT AT BETHANY LUTHERAN College grew steadily and intentionally, shaping a campus community that reflected both the global reach of the Church and the College’s commitment to Christ-centered higher education. By fall 2025, that long-term focus resulted in historic levels of international enrollment—placing Bethany among national leaders in international student growth.

At a time when many colleges and universities across the United States experienced stagnation or decline in international enrollment, Bethany’s trajectory told a different story. The Bethany International Office reported the arrival of 71 new first-year international students in fall 2025. In a typical year, the College welcomes approximately 45 new international students, making the increase more than 50 percent above average.

Overall, Bethany enrolled approximately 150 international students from 35 countries, representing about 20 percent of the total student body. By comparison, international students comprised about five percent of enrollment at private colleges statewide, according to the Minnesota Private College Council.

“Bethany has been intentional about international

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enrollment for more than a decade,” said President Gene Pfeifer. “We focused not only on students interested in a Bethany education, but also on retention, support, and making sure these students truly felt at home here. We are deeply thankful for the students who enroll at Bethany from around the world and for the perspectives, talents, and faith they bring to our campus community.”

That intentionality extended beyond recruitment numbers. College leaders emphasized that international enrollment was never pursued simply as a strategy for growth, but as a reflection of Bethany’s mission—to serve students through a Christ-centered education grounded in academic excellence, community, and care.

Nick Cook, Director of International Partnerships in Bethany’s Admissions Department, noted that Bethany’s success was built on relationships, consistency, and trust.

Rather than rapid expansion, the College prioritized sustainable growth and student support, allowing international students to thrive academically, socially, and spiritually.

Out of more than 900 students enrolled in the fall, international students formed a vibrant and visible presence across campus. They are represented in academic

Moulaye Sidibe represented his home country of Mali during the International Festival held at BLC on October 4, 2025.

programs across disciplines, compete in athletics, serve in leadership roles, and contribute to campus organizations, worship life, and service opportunities.

That global presence was especially evident during the BLC International Festival, hosted by the Bethany Psychology Department on Saturday, October 4, 2025.

The free community event brought together students, faculty, families, and local schools to celebrate the cultures represented on campus.

As part of a service-learning project, students in the PSYC230 Cross-Cultural Psychology course collaborated with members of the Bethany World Club to create cultural nation booths highlighting traditions, history, and everyday life from countries around the world. The event invited students to apply classroom learning in meaningful, outward-facing ways while welcoming the broader community to campus.

Students and families from Mt. Olive, Risen Savior, and St. Paul–New Ulm grade schools attended the festival. K–8 students received a “passport” that was stamped at each nation booth they visited. Once completed, the passport could be exchanged for a prize—an activity that encouraged curiosity, conversation, and exploration.

For many community members, the International Festival served as a first introduction to Bethany Lutheran College.

For Bethany students, it was an opportunity to share their stories, celebrate their heritage, and engage in service that reflected the College’s values.

Bethany’s international engagement also extended well beyond the campus and the Mankato community. During the week of October 13–17, 2025, Cook traveled to Brazil, visiting high schools and meeting with guidance counselors in four cities. The trip focused on strengthening existing partnerships and exploring new opportunities to serve

students interested in studying in a Christian environment in the United States.

“Throughout the trip, I encountered a growing Christian culture and a strong interest in connecting faith with academic study,” Cook said. “That intersection was something Bethany is uniquely positioned to offer.”

Bethany has welcomed many outstanding students from Brazil over the years, including two who went on to serve as Student Body Presidents, a testament to both the quality of students drawn to Bethany and the supportive environment they encountered once on campus. The College expresses anticipation for welcoming additional Brazilian students in the years ahead.

As international enrollment continues to grow, College leaders emphasized that Bethany’s focus remained unchanged: to provide a Christ-centered education where students from every background are known, supported, and prepared for lives of service in their vocations and communities.

“Our international students are an integral part of the Bethany family,” Pfeifer said. “We give thanks for the way God brings them here—from across the country and across the world.”

Anastasia Aleawobu studied in Honsey Hall, surrounded by flags representing the home countries of students from around the world.

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EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE TO BETHANY AWARD

Born, Overn named 2025 recipients

SCAN & WATCH Award Presentation Video

Bethany Lutheran College Professor Emeritus Silas Born and the late Mr. William (Bill) Overn were named the 2025 recipients of the Exceptional Service to Bethany Award.

This prestigious honor, selected annually by the Bethany Alumni Board, recognizes individuals or groups who have made significant contributions to the mission and well-being of Bethany Lutheran College and the former Bethany Lutheran High School.

Professor Emeritus Silas Born dedicated more than six decades to Lutheran education. His service included calls to St. John’s Lutheran School in Sparta, Wisconsin; Holy Cross Lutheran School in Madison, Wisconsin; and Skola Martina Luthera in Plzeň, Czech Republic, along with a period of substitute teaching in Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin. He spent more than twenty-five years at Bethany Lutheran College, where he was a foundational member of the Education Department. His roles included professor of education, education major coordinator, director of the Student Success Center, and ELS Director of Christian Education. Even after his formal retirement, Born continued to teach and mentor students, most recently serving as an adjunct professor and student teacher supervisor until 2023. A humble servant, he consistently redirects recognition to the Lord, expressing gratitude for opportunities to share the “One Thing Needful.”

Born earned a bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Martin Luther College in 1963 and a master’s degree in curriculum and supervision from the University

Professor Emeritus Silas Born during the award presentation.

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of Wisconsin–Milwaukee in 1970. He also pursued doctoral studies in rehabilitative psychology and special education at the University of Wisconsin–Madison. He resides in Mankato with his wife, Mary, and together they had two sons, John ’90 and Peter ’92, both Bethany alumni.

Even in retirement, Born remains an active resource to Bethany and other Lutheran schools.

Mr. William Overn served on the Bethany Board of Regents for an extraordinary forty-four years, from 1969 to 2013, including thirty-six years as vice chair. His tenure spanned the leadership of six college presidents William Overn and included pivotal milestones in the College’s history, such as the transition from a two-year associate’s institution to a four-year bachelor’s college, the addition of numerous academic programs, and the construction and expansion of ten campus buildings.

A veteran of World War II, Overn served in the Army Air Corps and completed engineering training at Yale University in 1944. He later earned a degree in electrical engineering from the University of Minnesota and worked at Remington Rand/Univac/Sperry, where he received several patents in computer science. He also co-founded the Twin Cities Creation Science Association and the Bible Science Association. A member of Heritage Lutheran Church in Apple Valley, Minnesota, Overn passed away in 2020. He and his wife, Anne Marie, shared sixty-three years of marriage before her passing. The couple were blessed with two children, Jane (Overn ’76) Van Norstrand and Matthew (’80), both Bethany alumni.

President Dr. Gene Pfeifer led the award presentation.

Special remarks were offered by Mr. Lyle Fahning, longtime Board of Regents member, colleague, and friend of William Overn, and by Mr. Greg Griffin, a nearly seventy-year friend of Born, a former member of the ELS Board of Trustees for thirteen years, and the father of four Bethany alumni—Sherri, Cindy, David, and Beth. Professor Emeritus Silas Born was present to receive his award and share brief remarks. The award honoring Mr. William Overn was accepted posthumously by his children.

Distinguished Alumni Award recipient Joel Meyer addressed the December class of 2025 graduates.

Joel Meyer recipient of 2025 Distinguished Alumni Award BETHANY LUTHERAN COLLEGE AWARDED JOEL MEYER (’82) WITH THE 2025 DISTINGUISHED ALUMNI AWARD. Meyer was honored during the Fall Commencement Ceremony on Friday, December 5, 2025, where he also addressed graduating seniors and guests.

Meyer began his academic journey at Bethany Lutheran College, earning an associate in arts degree before completing a bachelor’s degree in mathematics education at Minnesota State University, Mankato, and a master’s degree from the University of Minnesota–Twin Cities. He devoted the first part of his professional career to education, teaching, and coaching at Glenwood and Litchfield High Schools in Minnesota from 1985 to 1999. During this time, he also served as head wrestling coach and football coach, shaping the lives of countless students and athletes.

In 1999, Meyer transitioned into business and entrepreneurship, founding The Meyer Group and investing in Papa Murphy’s Take ’N’ Bake Pizza franchises. Under his leadership, the business grew to more than fifty locations across the Midwest and employs hundreds of people. His successful move from education to business reflects both versatility and strong leadership.

Service to others is a hallmark of Meyer’s life. He's held leadership roles with organizations including Thrivent Financial for Lutherans–Meeker County Chapter, The Lutheran Home Association, and the Papa Murphy’s Franchise Advisory Board. His connection to Bethany remains

active and impactful, ranging from coaching and alumni board service SCAN & WATCH to supporting multiple campus campaigns and initiatives. In recognition of his contributions to Bethany Award athletics, Meyer was inducted into Acceptance Video the Bethany Athletic Hall of Fame in 2024.

“Joel has shown a thoughtful dedication to his work, his community, and to Bethany,” said Bethany Lutheran College President Gene Pfeifer. “His career reflects a strong sense of responsibility and purpose, and we are pleased to recognize him with this honor.”

Meyer and his wife, Jane, reside in Litchfield and East Gull Lake, Minnesota. They have two children, Kjerstin and Nic (’18), and one grandson. The Meyers worship at Gloria Dei Lutheran Church (ELS) in Cold Spring, St. Paul’s Lutheran Church (WELS) in Litchfield, and Christ Lutheran Church (WELS) in Baxter. Meyer is the son of Bethany President Emeritus Marvin Meyer (’59), who received the Distinguished Alumni Award in 2002, and the late Pat (Salomon ’59) Meyer.

Bethany Lutheran College congratulates Joel Meyer on this well-deserved recognition and thanks him for his steady example of leadership, service, and support of Christian higher education.

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GO Fall Athletics Highlights Bethany Lutheran College student-athletes concluded a strong fall season with conference honors, postseason success, and historic milestones across multiple programs in the Upper Midwest Athletic Conference (UMAC).

Cross Country Bethany cross country earned multiple All-Conference honors following impressive performances at the UMAC Championships. Campbell Amundson was named First Team All-UMAC and earned Women’s Rookie of the Year recognition, while Andreas Guessregen received Second Team honors.

Amundson led the Vikings with an eighth-place finish, recording a personal-best time of 24:16.4. Her performance ranked fifth in program history. Guessregen paced the men’s squad with an 11th-place finish, crossing the line in a personal-best 28:19.6, which ranked seventh in program history.

Gracelyn Malecek and James Younge were recognized with All-Sportsmanship honors.

Golf The Bethany men’s golf team placed second at the UMAC Championships, continuing a strong postseason showing. Senior Keaton Ginter finished as the individual runner-up for the second consecutive season.

Ginter earned All-Conference recognition on the men’s side, while sophomore Lydia Schmid was selected All-Conference for Bethany’s women’s program.

First-year golfer Tyson Wicklund earned Honorable Mention honors. Schmid was also named to the All-Sportsmanship Team, while first-year August Waxin represented the Vikings on the men’s All-Sportsmanship Team.

Men’s Soccer Bethany men’s soccer concluded its season with a 2–1 overtime loss to the University of Wisconsin-Superior in the UMAC playoff championship match. The Vikings finished the year with a 12-7-2 overall record.

Seven Bethany players earned All-Conference recognition.

Ted Tendaie, Jamie van Wijland, and Miguel Goncalves were named First-Team All-UMAC. Santiago Rios, Diogo

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Bethany Magazine | Winter 2026

VIKINGS! Cavalcanti, Guilherme Gancho, and Goncalo Nolasco earned Second Team honors. Senior William Shade was recognized with All-Sportsmanship honors.

Women’s Soccer The Bethany women’s soccer season concluded in the UMAC semifinals with a 3–0 loss to the University of Wisconsin-Superior. The Vikings finished the season with a 9-8-2 overall record.

Elena Luján Rubio was named Offensive Player of the Year, while head coach Ryan Nichols earned Co-Coach of the Year honors. Reese Moorad and Arayah Ryan Nichols Baker joined Luján Rubio as First-Team All-Conference selections.

Mia Johnson, Riley Ping, and Katelynn Bills were named to the Second Team, while Roxy Rehberg earned Honorable Mention recognition.

Volleyball Bethany volleyball concluded its season in the UMAC semifinals with a 3–0 loss at the University of Wisconsin-Superior. The Vikings finished the year with a 16-12 overall record, reaching the 16-win mark for the first time since 2007.

Laura Evans

Elena Luján Rubio (senior, Alborache, Spain) was named Offensive Player of the Year in Women's Soccer.

Head coach Laura Evans was named UMAC Coach of the Year, while five Bethany student-athletes earned All-Conference honors. Abby Distad, Lilly Mehrkens, and Maddie Meyer were selected First Team All-Conference. Kylie Smidt and Lexiss Trygg earned Second Team honors. Ella Blazina was recognized with All-Sportsmanship honors.

Evans became the first Bethany volleyball coach to earn UMAC Coach of the Year honors since 2004. In three seasons leading the program, Evans guided steady improvement—from an 8-18 record in 2023 to 14-15 in 2024 and a 16-12 finish this season—marking Bethany’s first winning volleyball season in 18 years and its first postseason appearance in three seasons.

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ATHLETIC HALL OF FAME

Class of 2025 inductees B

ethany Lutheran College recognized the Class of 2025 Athletic Hall of Fame Inductees at the annual Hall of Fame banquet Friday, Sept. 19, 2025, in the Ron Younge Gymnasium. The class includes former student-athletes and longtime contributors whose achievements and service have left a lasting mark on Bethany Viking athletics.

Kay (Guse) Gottschalk

(1983–Present) - Volleyball, Basketball, Coach, and Athletic Staff Gottschalk competed in volleyball and basketball during the 1983–84 season, earning All-MCCC honors in both sports. Her promising athletic career was cut short by a diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis, but her impact on Bethany athletics was only beginning. She transitioned into athletic support roles, becoming a longtime statistician, scorer, and assistant coach. Since 1984, Gottschalk has served as the official scorer for Bethany volleyball and, since 1991, for both men’s and women’s basketball— providing more than four decades of dedicated service.

Robert Schweim (1994–96) - Basketball

A dominant power forward, Schweim led the Vikings and the conference in rebounding during both of his seasons at Bethany. He was a team captain and helped guide the Vikings to a combined 39–11 record. Schweim earned All-MCCC, All-Southern Division, and All-Region XIII honors and was named to the All-Region XIII Tournament Team. He later continued his collegiate basketball career at St. Olaf College, where he was also named team captain and All-Conference.

John Baumann

(1997–Present) - Athletic Staff Since his sophomore year as a Bethany student, Baumann has been a constant presence at Viking home contests, serving as scoreboard and shot-clock operator for nearly every sport. For 28 years, he has fulfilled this role with exceptional professionalism, earning recognition as one of the region’s top scoring-table personnel. Though sought after by other programs, Baumann has consistently made Bethany his top priority, exemplifying quiet, faithful service.

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Bethany Magazine | Winter 2026

2025 Athletic Hall of Fame inductees from left: Derek Laliberte, Kasey (Schlicker) Walker, Robert Schweim, Kay (Guse) Gottschalk, John Baumann, and Tommy Saffert.

Derek Laliberte (1998–99) - Soccer

A two-year captain, Laliberte led the Vikings in scoring both seasons and finished his Bethany career with 37 goals and 19 assists. He was a two-time All-MCCC and All-Region XIII selection and earned NJCAA Honorable Mention All-American recognition. Laliberte went on to become a two-year Division I starter at Indiana University Fort Wayne.

Kasey (Schlicker) Walker (2002–04) - Basketball and Golf

Walker was a standout two-sport athlete, earning All-Conference, All-State, and All-Region XIII honors in basketball, along with NJCAA Third Team All-American recognition. She was part of championship-caliber teams and received the NJCAA Region XIII Service and Achievement Award. In golf, Walker qualified for the NJCAA National Women’s Golf Tournament. She later continued her basketball career at the University of South Dakota.

Tommy Saffert

(2006–10) - Basketball One of the most accomplished players in program history, Saffert ranks among Bethany’s all-time leaders in scoring, assists, steals, and three-point field goals. A threetime First Team All-UMAC selection, he was named UMAC Player of the Year in 2009–10 and left a lasting mark on Viking basketball.

SCAN & WATCH Athletic Hall of Fame Inductions Video

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Summer at Bethany Camps that inspire, challenge, and grow young minds

By Lance Schwartz ’86

E

ach summer, Bethany Lutheran College’s campus comes alive in a special way.

Classrooms, studios, athletic facilities, and residence halls fill with energy as young learners—from elementary students to high schoolers—arrive to take part in Bethany’s wide range of summer camps.

While Bethany has long been known for its strong tradition of athletic camps, the College now offers an increasingly diverse slate of summer experiences designed to spark curiosity, build skills, and encourage confidence in a Christ-centered environment.

A strong tradition in athletics Athletics remain at the heart of Bethany’s summer camp offerings. Led by Bethany coaches and student-athletes, sports camps provide participants with high-quality instruction, skill

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Bethany Magazine | Winter 2026

development, and a positive team atmosphere.

Throughout the summer, Bethany hosts camps in basketball, volleyball, soccer, golf, cross country and track and field, tennis, and more. Volleyball camps are offered at multiple levels—from Young Vikings to advanced and positional camps— allowing athletes to learn and grow alongside peers at a similar stage. Basketball, soccer ID, golf, and tennis camps give participants the opportunity to sharpen fundamentals, gain game insight, and experience collegiate-level facilities firsthand.

For many young athletes, these camps are not only a chance to improve their skills but also to build confidence, discipline, and friendships that last well beyond the summer months.

Exploring creativity, technology, and the sciences Beyond athletics, Bethany’s summer camps invite students to explore new interests and possible career paths through hands-on, engaging experiences.

Creative and technology-focused camps such as Art Camp, Game Design Camp, Video Game

Designer Camp, VR Camp, 3D Printing Camp, Engineering and Computers, and Esports Camp encourage imagination and problem-solving while introducing participants to cutting-edge tools and concepts. These camps reflect Bethany’s growing strength in media arts, engineering, and technology-related fields.

Students interested in healthcare can participate in Nursing Camp, gaining early exposure to one of Bethany’s respected academic programs, while language learners can immerse themselves in Spanish Camp, combining education with fun and interaction.

Together, these offerings give students a chance to discover new talents, explore future possibilities, and learn in an environment that values both academic excellence and personal growth.

2026 Summer Camps Camp

Grades

Dates

Virtual Reality

(2-6)

June 8-9

Girls Basketball

(K-4)

June 15-17

Girls Basketball

(5-8)

June 15-17

Girls Basketball

(9-12)

August 2

Boys Basketball

(K-4)

June 8-11

Boys Basketball

(9-12)

June 8-11

Boys Basketball

(5-8)

June 15-18

Game Design

(6-12)

June 10-12

3D Printing Camp

(6-12)

June 15-16

Video Game Designer Camp

(6-12)

June 17-19

A campus that feels like home

Girls Soccer ID Camp

(10-12)

June 25

Held on Bethany’s beautiful Mankato campus, summer camps offer more than just instruction—they provide a glimpse into college life and the supportive Bethany community. Campers learn from dedicated faculty, coaches, and staff who are passionate about mentoring young people, while also experiencing the welcoming, faith-focused atmosphere that defines Bethany Lutheran College.

Whether stepping onto the court, into a lab, or behind a computer screen, campers are encouraged to do their best, support one another, and grow as individuals.

For many students, a Bethany summer camp is more than a fun week—it’s the beginning of new interests, new friendships, and lasting memories.

Art

(5-8)

June 22-26

Art

(9-12)

June 22-26

Volleyball (Intermediate 1)

(4-8)

July 6-8

Volleyball (Advanced)

(8-12)

July 6-9

Volleyball (Young Vikings)

(K-4)

July 9-10

Volleyball (Positional)

(6-12)

July 20-22

Girls Volleyball (Intermediate 2)

(4-8)

July 20-22

Golf

(K-6)

July 27-28

Golf

(7-12)

July 29-30

Cross Country/Track

(K-5)

July 28-31

Cross Country/Track

(6-8)

July 28-31

Cross Country/Track

(9-12)

July 28-31

Tennis

(K-5)

August 3-7

Tennis

(6-8)

August 3-7

Tennis

(9-12)

August 3-7

SIGN UP

*Dates subject to change. Check our website for the most current information.

Scan to see camps and register

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from our

alumni 1950s

Eunice (Huseby ’52) Meyer’s obituary notice in the summer 2025 issue of Bethany Magazine listed an incorrect date of her passing. Eunice passed away on August 9, 2025. We regret the error and apologize for the mistake.

1960s Vivian (’60) Weseloh and her husband, Larry, announce the birth of their fifth and sixth great-grandchildren, twin girls Daphne and Quinn Weseloh, born August 25, 2025.

1970s

1980s

Jon Wroge (’88), a special education teacher and baseball coach at Central Public Schools for 27 years, was inducted into the Coaches Hall of Fame by the Minnesota State High School Baseball Coaches Association. He was recognized during a Minnesota Twins game on September 21, 2025.

1990s Rachel (Ruddat ’95) Crites was recognized on November 9, 2025, for 20 years of service as organist, music coordinator, and choir director at Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church in Anchorage, Alaska.

Ron Arneson (’75) and his wife, Barb, are retired and living in Rio, Wisconsin. They enjoy biking, fishing, and spending time with family during the warmer months.

Rev. Bernie Schey (’77) and his wife, Ingeborg, visited Iowa, Wisconsin, and Minnesota in October 2025 while celebrating his brother Gregg Schey’s 75th birthday in St. Paul. During their travels, they attended King of Grace Lutheran Church in Golden Valley, Minnesota, where they were delighted to reconnect with classmate Maggie (Tonn ’77) Slaker. On their return trip to Texas, they stopped at Bethany Lutheran College and attended a daily chapel service, reconnecting with friends Chaplain Don Moldstad, Rev. David Thompson, and Rev. Tom Rank.

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Bethany Magazine | Winter 2026

2000s

Professor Dr. John A. Maxfield (’83) published a new book, Becoming Lutheran: The Community of Brunswick from Evangelical Reform to Lutheran Culture (St. Louis: Concordia Publishing House, 2024).

The book examines the religious, social, and cultural transformation of Brunswick from the 1510s through the 1550s, tracing the emergence of a distinctly Lutheran identity.

Dr. Ryan MacPherson (’95) and his wife, Marie (Holtz ’07) MacPherson, reside in Casper, Wyoming. Ryan serves as academic dean at Luther Classical College. Marie is a homeschool mother who also coordinates children’s music ensembles and teaches art at Mount Hope Lutheran School. They have seven children, ranging in age from 3 to 19.

Wyatt Cote (’09), a Nashville-based singer, songwriter, and producer, performed on October 9, 2025, in the E. J. Halling Recital Hall at Minnesota State University, Mankato. The performance drew a strong audience, including many Bethany alumni and friends, and featured original music accompanied by stories from his career.

Briann (Jennissen attended ’09) Morbitzer lives in St. Paul with her husband, Chris, and their four children.

She works as a speech-language pathologist specializing in stuttering and owns Superior Speech Therapy.

She was recently a guest speaker on the podcast Speaking Life Into Motherhood, which explores Christian parenting, particularly in families navigating therapy and treatment.

2010s Dr. Matthew Schaffer (’10) was named the recipient of the South Dakota State Medical Association’s Outstanding Young Physician Award. He serves as chief of staff at Mobridge Regional Hospital and Clinics and provides a monthly full-spectrum obstetrics clinic in McLaughlin, South Dakota.

The award recognizes physicians early in their careers who demonstrate exceptional leadership, service, and commitment to their communities.

John Stevens (’11) and his wife, Heidi (Maunula ’11) Stevens, welcomed their son, Lucas Stevens, on June 12, 2025. He was baptized on June 22, 2025, and joins four siblings in the Stevens family.

April 2025 and recently purchased their first home together in North Mankato. Rachel and Bruce are enjoying being back in the community and are grateful for the opportunity to attend many Bethany Lutheran College events throughout the year.

Paul and Jenna (Albrecht ‘16) Elsen were married on September 20, 2025, in Loretto, Minnesota. Many of Jenna’s Bethany classmates were in attendance. The Elsens currently reside in Edina, Minnesota, where Jenna continues to work for Parametric Portfolio Associates, and Paul works as a master plumber at City View Plumbing & Heating.

Patrick (‘15) and Kate (Ruschmeyer ‘16) Ernst were blessed with the healthy birth of their daughter, Loretta Margaret, on July 3, 2025. They also have two sons: August (5) and Milo (2).

In August 2025, the family relocated from Frankenmuth, Michigan, to the Mankato area. Patrick accepted a call as an ELS home missionary serving Eagle Lake Lutheran Church in Eagle Lake, Minnesota.

Bailey (Bautch ’18) married Philip Tippett on December 6, 2025, in Rochester, Minnesota. The ceremony took place at Living Hope Church, where the couple first met.

Bailey works as an office manager at Franklin Elementary School in Rochester.

Pictured standing from left: Jon Wolfrath (‘15), Alannah (‘19 Menk) Lendt, Nadiya (‘17 Borshch) Ringen, Jenna (‘16 Albrecht) Elsen, Lauren Farquhar (‘16), Katelyn (‘15 Kowitz) Bolte, Avis Van Zomeren (‘17), Nadine Van Zomeren (‘17), Anna (‘17 Wiechmann) Vomhof, and Cynthia (‘19 Krause) Nash. Seated from left: Katie (‘16 Caflisch) Totten, Megan Maschoff (‘16), and Mike Lendt (‘15)

Jacob Duden (’19) and his wife, Jessica (Berlinger ’19) Duden, welcomed their daughter, Hannah on July 2, 2025.

Brittany (Titus ’15) Fenrich, and her husband Matthew, announced the birth of their son, Camden Lee Fenrich, on September 22, 2025. He joins his older sister, Juliet Emilie, age 2.

Rachel (Olsen ‘18) Schneider and her husband, Bruce, were married in June 2022.

After living in Cresco, Iowa, for about three years, they returned to the Mankato area in 39

Kayla (Jannsen ‘19) Strom and Derek Strom welcomed the arrival of a baby boy in September 2025.

Rea (Kuske ‘22) Mueller started a new job as a graphic designer at Comfy Cubs, a baby product company located in Miami, Florida.

2020s Ethan Becker (’21) began working as the politics and education reporter for the Mankato Free Press in June 2025.

Chad Lease (’19) and his wife, Megan (Morehouse ’19) Lease, announced the birth of their daughter, Eleanor Norma Lease, born July 27, 2025.

Kyle Kubesh (’19) and his wife, Mindy (Poehler ’20) Kubesh, welcomed a son in December 2024. Kyle works as a lab manager for Siouxland Energy in northwest Iowa, and Mindy serves as a physician assistant in family medicine.

Leah (Sonnenburg ‘21) Shult and her husband, Wade, joyfully welcomed their second son, Cooper Gary Shult, on January 26, 2026. Cooper weighed 8 pounds, 8 ounces and measured 21 inches long— matching his big brother, Mason, at birth.

Rejoicing in God’s blessings, Cooper was baptized into God’s family on January 28.

Maelyn (Duquaine ’22) Chafe married Matthew Chaffe on May 30, 2025, at King of Kings Lutheran Church in Willoughby, Ohio.

The ceremony was officiated by her father, Pastor Jeffrey Duquaine. The couple resides in Painesville, Ohio.

Deaths – Alumni, Regents, Faculty and Staff Carl Vierck (’49) passed away on September 8, 2025 Glenn Annexstad (’50) passed away on November 8, 2025 Paul Werner (’50) passed away on October 4, 2025 Joanne (Hantelman ’57) Haider passed away on October 15, 2025 David Tweit (’59) passed away on September 9, 2025 Donna (Ulrich ’62) Schultz passed away on September 7, 2025

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Bethany Magazine | Winter 2026

Elisabeth (Masrud ’23) Stay earned a master’s degree in library and information science from the University of Wisconsin– Madison in December 2025.

Hannah Rethemeyer (’24) and Tristan May announced their engagement on December 13, 2025.

Gerald Muehring (’69) passed away on September 27, 2025 Rev. Bradley Homan (’75) passed away on December 20, 2025 Paul Russow (’04) passed away on November 16, 2025 Amanda Nusser (’13) passed away on March 16, 2025 John Winch (BLC Maintenance Dept.) passed away on December 11, 2025

Student Centered.

Mission Focused.

Your Gift to The Bethany Fund Supports Our Campus in Many Different Ways...

Mission

» From weekday services in Trinity Chapel, religion classes, and various devotional opportunities, your gift will help carry out the “One Thing Needful.”

Financial Aid

» Your gift is needed to assist a new generation of

students to make Bethany an affordable possibility.

Students

» From over 30 student groups, fine arts,

communication, and NCAA athletics, your gift will assist our students outside the classroom.

Academics and Faculty Development

» With 25 majors and one graduate program on

campus, your gift will provide needed support for faculty advancement, supplies and classroom experiences.

Visit blc.edu/Bethany-Fund

1 Open camera 2 Scan 3 Learn more and donate 41

Giving Wisely: Tax-Advantaged Ways to Support Bethany DID YOU KNOW THAT NEARLY 90 PERCENT OF INDIVIDUAL WEALTH IN THE UNITED STATES is not held in checking or savings accounts? Instead, most assets are found in investments, retirement accounts, and other long-term holdings. This creates meaningful opportunities to support Bethany Lutheran College—often in ways that are both generous and tax-advantaged.

Supporters can advance Bethany’s mission and ministry through several common and effective gift options that may offer financial benefits while making a lasting impact.

One popular approach is a gift of appreciated securities, such as stocks, bonds, or mutual funds. Donating these assets may allow donors to avoid capital gains taxes while receiving a charitable deduction for the full market value of the gift.

Retirement assets also provide flexible and tax-efficient giving opportunities. For individuals age 70-½ or older, a qualified charitable distribution (QCD) from an Individual Retirement Account (IRA) can satisfy required minimum distributions while supporting Bethany. Naming the College

as a beneficiary of an IRA or other retirement account is another simple way to make a future gift that can have a lasting impact.

Some donors choose beneficiary designations on life insurance policies or other financial instruments. These gifts are easy to arrange, can be updated as circumstances change, and allow donors to support Bethany beyond their lifetime.

Others may find value in charitable gift annuities, which provide fixed income for life in exchange for a charitable contribution—combining personal financial planning with meaningful support for the College.

Each of these options reflects thoughtful stewardship, aligning financial resources with faith and a commitment to Christian higher education.

To learn more about tax-advantaged ways to support Bethany Lutheran College, please contact the Advancement Office at 507-344-7000. We would be glad to assist you as you consider your next step in support of Bethany’s mission and ministry.

Photo by Jeremy Bishop on Unsplash

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Bethany Magazine | Winter 2026

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ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED

Non Profit Organization U.S. Postage PAID Twin Cities MN PERMIT No. 90100

700 Luther Drive Mankato, Minnesota 56001-6163

fall festival

A Homecoming Weekend

Please mark your calendar and join us

September 25–27, 2026 This event includes activities for all ages and alumni reunions.

All alumni and friends are invited to be part of the weekend.

Enjoy athletic contests, live music, and more!

Visit blc.edu/fall-festival