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2019–2020 Bethany Lutheran College
Theatre Season
theatre.blc.edu
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TABLE OF
CONTENTS STUDENT ACTIVITIES ____________________________
4 FROM THE PRESIDENT We are up to the challenge
20 STUDENT SHORTS
FACULTY & STAFF ____________________________
Student internship and athlete honored
6 UPDATES AND NEWS
21 IN GOOD COMPANY
8 BRUSS LEAVES LEGACY
ATHLETICS ____________________________
Broadcast crew nominated for award
Department news with student accomplishments Kathy Bruss retires after helping build study abroad, grow Spanish program
22 UMAC CHAMPIONS X2 Softball, baseball win big, plus post-season honors for spring
CAMPUS NEWS ____________________________
24 ALL-DECADE TEAM
UMAC honors Bethany athletes with all-decade team spots
10 ENGLISH DEPT. LUNCHEON Alumni bond at new event
25 TURF TIME
11 THEATRE PARTNERSHIP
Artificial turf soccer field taking shape
Graduate and current professor develop new take on old story
ALUMNI ____________________________
15 TAKING THE LEAD
Glen Taylor shared advice and stories with students about leadership
26 DISTINGUISHED ALUMNUS
16 GAME(R) TIME
28 ALUMNI NEWS
1960 graduate Darwin Beck honored News and updates from our alumni
Bethany kicked off its esports program
31 RETROSPECT
18 PATIENT EDUCATION
Fire in the amphitheater!
Nursing receives full accreditation, acknowledges first graduates
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ON THE COVER: Professor Dean Shoop retired at the end of the 2019 academic year. Story on page 12. Photo by David Norris
BETHANY AT THE BALLPARK Event brings Bethany Family and friends to new home of baseball team.
zine
Maga ISSUE: 143
All contents Š COPYRIGHT 2019 Bethany Lutheran College. Articles, images or photographs may not be reproduced without written permission. The Bethany
Magazine is published three times yearly by the Bethany Lutheran College Office of Institutional Communication and distributed free of charge.
editor, writer | Lance Schwartz designer, photographer | David Norris Please direct all correspondence, letters, news, corrections, and comments to: Bethany Lutheran College Bethany Magazine 700 Luther Drive Mankato, MN 56001-6163 Email: editor@blc.edu Phone: 507.344.7000 | 800.944.3066
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.
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PRESIDENT BY G E N E PFE I FE R • PR E S I D ENT, B E TH A N Y LU TH ER A N CO LLEG E
We are up to the challenge Do you ever have a challenging day? Don't misunderstand me, I love being here at Bethany, and thoroughly enjoy the work of supporting Bethany's mission. But there are, at times, some challenges. How do you deal with or work through challenges? In the case of my work at Bethany, I look upon God's blessings for our school over the past 92 academic years. Throughout those 92 years, God has abundantly blessed Bethany with the tangible resources it has needed—in leadership; in a faithful group of supporters; in dedicated and talented faculty and staff who are well-equipped to carry out their duties with a mindset for personal mentoring of our cherished students; without which, Bethany doesn't have a group of people to serve. God has given this College a mission and purpose around which we and all Bethany supporters can rally—a mission established by our Lord himself to proclaim to the next generation The One Thing Needful—the message of a Savior, Jesus, who by faith, has taken away the punishment for all sin. Doesn't that give you, me, and all who cherish Bethany a purpose for our lives and reason to face the challenges of each new day? As we closed our academic year just over a month ago, it was overwhelming to review the many blessings provided by our Lord:
6 Our international student population has grown exponentially in the past three years. Today, 59 Bethany students (that's 10% of our student body) come from 19 countries representing five continents—providing the opportunity to share with them the message of God's love for us through Jesus.
1 We recently conferred our first bachelor of science in nursing degrees to a senior cohort of four students. It was an historic and blessed graduation day. The program will continue to be blessed with more and more new students.
7 In August, we'll welcome our second cohort of students from an intentional urban initiative to attract American students of color to Bethany.
2 We awarded the bachelor of arts in engineering sciences degree to our second cohort of three seniors. The major now numbers 28 declared students, plus several freshman seeking application to the program. What our sainted colleague Peter Kjeer envisioned and developed is now taking shape.
8 Our three-year-old dual credit online learning program continues to grow to the point of now serving about 120 online high school students.
3 New majors in biochemistry, computer science, graphic design, legal studies, and special education are beginning to take hold; as well as our paralegal certificate program.
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4 Athletic success included the baseball team winning the Conference Tournament and advancing to the NCAA National Tournament for the second consecutive year, the softball team claiming the regular season UMAC title, and women's basketball winning the UMAC Conference Tournament and advancing to the DIII National Tournament. 5 In the fall of 2018, God wonderfully blessed Bethany with a large first-year class of 225 students—the largest in our 92-year history.
9 The students who come to Bethany are staying at higher rates than seen before. Our retention rates for the three most recent freshman classes are consistently 80% or higher, which is on par with the top private colleges in Minnesota.
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10 As a result of these new majors, online programs, intentional urban recruitment, and record retention, Bethany's full-time enrollment over the past four years has increased by 22%, and our total enrollment by 41%. This is truly God-blessed news. When I have the occasional privilege to visit with prospective students and their families, I like to talk about Bethany's "secret sauce." It's a recipe that truly equips graduates for productive and fulfilling lives. Our graduates' unique, Christ-centered identity is that "secret sauce." It's an attribute missing in many of society's graduates today, but it's what makes Bethany graduates well-prepared for meaningful lives in society; is attractive to employers; and most importantly keeps them in the Christian faith until Christ's return. While we might be tempted to take credit for these victories, it's really not our work, but rather it's the work of the Holy Spirit. And I've been privileged to see this work firsthand. I've had the awesome opportunity to witness eight baptisms of young people on the Bethany campus. These eight souls came to Bethany for an education—and they received it—but they got so much more—by faith they have a Savior in Jesus who provides them and us with the assurance of eternal life. What a gift! After our students' years on campus, our desire is that Bethany graduates are firmly grounded in Christian faith and teaching so that they reflect Christ's love in their daily lives with integrity, character, and unshakable values. And while a focus on Christ is our greatest desire for Bethany alumni, we have other aspirations for our students. We aim to provide excellence in academic scholarship in an atmosphere of personal mentoring between faculty and students. We also aspire to provide our students with the opportunity to explore and develop their God-given gifts and talents through a broad range of academic, athletic, music, art, media, theatre, speech, and leadership opportunities typically only available at much larger institutions. And, finally, we envision that all of this happens at Bethany within the environment of a caring, Christian academic community that includes all of you—from a host of alumni over 10,000 strong, to our numerous supporters and friends.
My prayer is that Bethany remains a strong and vibrant college community in order to ensure The One Thing Needful never ceases to be shared on this campus for the generations of students yet to come. Thank you for your prayers, your time, your positive testimony about Bethany among your families and in your communities and congregations, and your financial support. We need you to continue to partner with us now more than ever. It's because of supporters like you that Bethany is able to continue to carry out its mission to proclaim The One Thing Needful through excellence in Christian higher education grounded in the liberal arts.
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CIDR Competition
Several students submitted their work for the Rosa J. Young Award Competition which honors the work of Dr. Rosa J. Young, who established a number of Lutheran schools, including a college, throughout Alabama. The Young Award Elli Gifferson Madelaine Cordes is sponsored by the Center for Intercultural Development and Resources. Those who were selected for awards include: Elli Gifferson ('20) was the winner in the writing competition with her essay, Has Islamic Discrimination Since 9/11 been an Issue of Religion or Race. Madelaine Cordes ('19) was the winner Amber Murry Lyla LaMay of the visual art competition for her digital painting, Naturalization. Honorable Mentions were awarded to: Amber Murry ('21) for her essay Conscientious Writing: Lessons Learned from a 'Failed' Poem; and to Lyla LaMay ('21) for her digital painting Composition.
Music
The Bethany Concert Band, under the direction of Benjamin Faugstad, performed a series of concerts during Spring Break. Their first stop was a performance at Alden-Conger Public School in Alden, Minnesota, followed by a shared concert in Eldora, Iowa, with the South Hardin High School Band. Their third performance was at Gethsemane Lutheran Church in Davenport, Iowa. Organ students from Bethany and other area colleges played an all-student organ recital on Tuesday, April 23, 2019, in Trinity Chapel. The student performers were from Bethany, Martin Luther College, Gustavus Adolphus College, and one private student. The event was sponsored by the local Sioux Trails Chapter of the American Guild of Organists (STAGO). Bethany will host three STAGO noontime recitals in Trinity Chapel on Tuesdays in July 2019 (9, 16, and 23).
Science and Mathematics
The Division of Science and Mathematics hosted their annual Science Symposium on Thursday, March 28, 2019. The 2019 theme was flight, and the key speaker was Colonel Kevin Sullivan (USAF, ret.), a senior engineer with the Boeing Company. He serves as the lead flight test engineer on the F22 fighter program, 412th Test Wing, Edwards AFB, California. Sullivan presented on his research and experiences as a flight test engineer.
Speech Team
Bethany's Speech Team competed at the Minnesota Collegiate Forensics Association Speech and Debate Tournament held February 15-17, 2019, 6
Emily Kjeer
Caleb Helmen
Noella Wigtil
at Southwest Minnesota State University in Marshall, Minnesota. Bethany was represented by sophomore Emily Kjeer ('21), and seniors Caleb Helmen ('19) and Noella Wigtil ('19). Kjeer was named the fifth best debate speaker at the tournament. Helmen was the eighth best. Emily and Caleb were semifinalists in the parliamentary debate category, narrowly missing advancing to the final round. Overall, the performances of the three combined to earn Bethany third place in the limited entry division of the State Tournament.
Theatre
Bethany's Children's Theatre Troupe toured and performed an original play at five southern Minnesota schools: Lafayette Charter School (Lafayette), Mt. Olive Lutheran (Mankato), Risen Savior Lutheran (Mankato), Trinity Lutheran (Nicollet), and Trinity Lutheran (Belle Plaine). The group traveled and performed for over 300 school children and their teachers.
Professional Updates
Associate Professor Andy Krueger (Business Administration) recently attended the 30th annual Teaching Economics Conference hosted by Robert Morris University in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. He was able to network with other professors, learn new delivery Andy Krueger techniques, economic modeling, and more. A highlight of the conference was spending time with the lead author of the course text used at Bethany for economics classes, Sean Flynn. Flynn is a professor at Scripps College in California, and also a top researcher on health care reform on which he did a keynote presentation. David Norris and Lance Schwartz (Institutional Communication) attended the Conference for Publications Professionals SponDavid Norris Lance Schwartz sored by the Council for Advancement and Support of Education (CASE) in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, on April 30-May 2, 2019.
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Taking the Lead Photos by David Norris
BY L ANCE SCHWARTZ • DIREC TOR OF INSTITUTIONAL COM MUNICATION
Glen Taylor is probably one of the most well-known Minnesota citizens. He's a successful entrepreneur, sports franchise owner, and philanthropist. A gift from Taylor in 2002 was the catalyst to start the Taylor Leadership Institute at Bethany Lutheran College. The Taylor Leadership Institute is a comprehensive program that occurs during three-year series of projects and lectures. It is open to students beginning with their sophomore year at Bethany. The curriculum is designed to strengthen the student's leadership skills, community awareness, and prepares participants for leadership roles on campus and after graduation. The goal is to connect students with community leaders while learning leadership strategies throughout the series. Topics include leading through vocation, leadership challenges, service, advocacy, ethics, and communication strategies. Taylor visits Bethany yearly to speak to the students both participating in the Leadership Institute and in business classes. The discussion is lively and interesting. Students learn about Taylor's personal story that took him from college student with $50 to his name to a highly successful business person. He covers a variety of topics including his first job, the purchase of his first business—Carlson Craft (a commercial wedding invitation printing business), his time in politics, and sports franchise ownership. He explained that success depends a lot on your own personal approach and attitude.
Glen Taylor spoke with students to share advice and stories of his business and personal growth.
The formula he follows isn't complex: • Learn how to solve problems • Be to work on time • Get a great education, but don't let your degree determine what you do in life • Do what you enjoy—you'll be so much better at your job • Listen to others One of the final questions for Taylor from a student in the packed classroom probed a little deeper into the recipe for becoming a successful business person. Taylor paused briefly before answering. "I can't take credit for my success, it's a gift from God. And God gives each of you a gift. You have to ask yourself, 'What am I going to do with that gift?'" 7
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Kathy Bruss leaves legacy of growth Kathy Bruss ('79) retired at the close of the 2018-19 academic year after sixteen years of service to Bethany. Bruss helped to build and grow both the College's Spanish and Study Abroad programs. Bruss came to Bethany at the same time as her husband, President Emeritus Dan Bruss. Before arriving at Bethany, she worked as the Director of International Studies and taught Spanish at Central College in Pella, Iowa. Her experience was both beneficial and critical to Bethany during a time of growth. The Study Abroad Program grew and flourished under Bruss' guidance. During her time as Study Abroad Coordinator, Bethany students studied in five continents, and 25 countries. And while the College does not have a Spanish major the popularity of the minor has also grown. Bruss commented about her work, "I've always viewed the goal of my work teaching Spanish and sending students to study abroad as the same. Because the goal is to expand the student's world, I've always met with students on an individual basis, to help them meet their own personal goals and fit in with their own situation." Studying abroad is a terrific character building experience for students. Those students who study abroad typically show excellent confidence, flexibility, and are more able to take on a challenge. Bruss noted these are skills employers highly value.
"It gives you skills for the rest of your life," Bruss said. Kathy and Dan Bruss will take that love for learning and travel with them as they both settle into a retirement routine. They plan to live abroad for a while in Latin America, eventually settling in the slightly warmer-than-Minnesota climate of southern Iowa, where they will spend time gardening and connecting with their grandchildren. Contributions by Nathan Dawson, Scroll Staff Writer
Bruce Gratz hired as Development Officer Bruce Gratz ('84) recently joined Bethany's Advancement Department full time. Gratz most recently served on the College's controlling board, the Board of Regents. He'll be working with a variety of supporters of the College, identifying and developing relationships with alumni and friends. Gratz, originally from rural Fairmont, Minnesota, attended East Chain High School. He chose to attend Bethany because it was a, "small school which mirrored my high school, and for the opportunity to experience a Christian-based college education." Gratz played basketball for the Vikings, was a member of the College Choir, and participated in intramurals while at BLC. After earning his associate in arts degree at Bethany, Gratz attended and earned a bachelor of science degree in commercial economics and agricultural business from South Dakota State University, Brookings (SDSU). He's also attended the Graduate School of Banking at the University of Wisconsin, Madison, earning his Certificate of Executive Leadership—the 8
highest-level certificate available through the Wisconsin School of Business. Gratz had been in the banking industry his entire professional career with responsibilities including client portfolio management and branch office and personnel administration. Most recently, he was the senior vice Bruce Gratz president of commercial lending in a community bank. Gratz is excited to work for his alma mater for a variety of reasons. "It's really about the people and the mission. When I consider all the individuals that have dedicated their careers to Bethany, I am overwhelmed with the commitment to the mission. You won't find this in the corporate world. I'm also thrilled to be sharing the good news of all the great work already being done on campus that honors our Lord Jesus Christ, and exploring the work yet to be done."
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Bethany at the
BALLPARK It was a great evening to be at the ballpark on Saturday, May 4, 2019. For many, it was the first chance to see the Bethany Vikings baseball team in action at their new home, Franklin Rogers Park in Mankato. Last year, the City of Mankato and private backers invested 4.5 million dollars into a renovation project at the 58-year-old ballpark. Included were new dugouts with attached locker rooms, concession stand, restrooms, new and expanded viewing areas down the first and third base lines, a new 10x16 foot scoreboard in left field, and an impressive 20x50 foot video board in right field. Also, the park now boasts a new artificial turf playing surface allowing the Vikings and other teams the opportunity to play more games during rainy and colder weather. In the summer months, the field is home to the Mankato MoonDogs of the Northwoods League, a wood bat, collegiate amateur league where talented players across the nation are invited to play. Over 450 Bethany alumni, students, parents, and friends came out to see the new home of Bethany Baseball and a great time was had by all with perfect weather, delicious food, and great baseball.
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Photos by Hannah Bockoven
BY JESSICA WE RRE • CL A SS OF 201 8
Clockwise from top left: Professor Lars Johnson, Kara Plocher ('18), Eleonore Mumme ('17), Michael Lillienthal ('11), Anna Wiechmann ('17), and Eileen Heintz ('14).
Window of Opportunity English program alumni bond over luncheon Many Bethany alumni share fond memories of the years spent learning alongside classmates and professors. But all too soon comes graduation day. After that, so often it can be easy to lose touch with departments and fellow alumni. It was for this reason the English Department hosted its first alumni luncheon this past April. The idea for the event was originally hatched by recent English
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alumnae Hannah Bockoven ('18) and Eleonore Mumme (’17). Upon graduation, Bockoven was hired to serve as International Student Activity Coordinator at Bethany. Her inspiration was driven by a desire to nurture a connection between the English Department and English alumni of all graduation classes. "Working at Bethany often gives me access to professors I hold very dear. So, I wanted to create an event that would similarly allow alumni to connect with familiar faces," says Bockoven. "I owe so much to the English Department. Their kindness and concern for their students and love of teaching and text allowed me to grow as a writer, thinker, and employee." The luncheon, hosted by Alpha Rho Tau, Bethany's chapter of Sigma Tao Delta, was held on Saturday April 27, 2019, in Honsey Hall. Despite threatening snow, a total of twenty-five alumni were counted in attendance. As attendees dined, they were treated to updates on recent English Department activities which included the chapter's trip to the Sigma Tao Delta convention in St. Louis, Missouri. "Lars [Johnson] told a really funny story," Gabrielle Emmons ('17) shares. "They tried to find Mark Twain's house but ended up in a deserted parking lot in a sketchy part of town." Emmons is set to complete her master of arts in history from University of Northern Iowa this December. Michael Lilienthal ('11) was thrilled to learn about new opportunities for current English students. "I love the efforts, getting students involved, and the collaboration with other departments. I came away proud of our English Department, faculty and students, and excited to see what comes next." Lilienthal attended Bethany Lutheran Theological Seminary and now serves as pastor of Our Savior's Lutheran Church in Albert Lea, Minnesota. Details on future English Department events are yet to be determined, but English alumni are advised to keep a look out. "I'd encourage you to make every effort to come, because it is worth it," says Lilienthal. "I'd like to hear what you've been up to, and to encourage you in your efforts, writing, reading, or whatever! The whole English Department—past, present, and future— wants to encourage you in that."
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Familiar Story Retold
Through Letters Photo by Benji Inniger
BY L ANCE SCHWARTZ • DIREC TOR OF INSTITUTIONAL COM MUNICATION
Actors in a scene from Letters to Anne of Green Gables from left: Daylin Paulson as Anne, Hailey Dick as Diana , and Erin Kelly as Ava.
The Sigurd Lee Theater on the Bethany Lutheran College campus was the site of a world premiere play on Friday, April 5, 2019. The production, Letters to Anne of Green Gables was co-written by alumna Lydia Lonnquist ('18) in fulfillment of her senior thesis for a theatre major. Lonnquist, who also majored in English, collaborated with Associate Professor Benji Inniger ('06) to write the new adaptation. Lonnquist explained the origin of the project, "This whole crazy process started when Professor Inniger asked me what I was planning on doing for my theatre senior thesis the spring of my junior year. I had put very little thought into it, and instead was stressed that I had to complete my English thesis at the same time." Inniger suggested that Lonnquist consider an adaptation of Lucy Maud Montgomery's classic Anne of Green Gables, but with a new perspective. Inniger had some history with the play. "Anne of Green Gables was the first play I'd ever acted in as part of youth community theatre." Recalling that "first," Inniger had previously contemplated a new adaptation and recognized Lonnquist's talent. The combination of Inniger's ideas and Lonnquist's writing became the new work, Letters to Anne of Green Gables.
"I wanted just about every character in Letters to Anne of Green Gables to tell Anne's story, except for Anne."
- LY D I A LO N N QU I S T ( ' 1 8)
"We strived to present an adaptation that tells such a frequently told story from a new, and hopefully enlightening perspective, while still maintaining the charm, nostalgia, and enduring spirit of the original," said Inniger. Lonnquist offered a unique piece of information about her experience with Anne of Green Gables as well. "I had never picked up any of the books, nor had I watched any screen adaptations. I knew very little about the series, and absolutely nothing about the author." The unfamiliarity with Anne of Green Gables wasn't an issue for Lonnquist, in fact, it may have helped shape the new story. During Lonnquist's senior year at Bethany, she read the first three books of the Anne of Green Gables series. "No adaptation of Anne had yet been written through letters," explained Lonnquist. "I wanted just about every character in Letters to Anne of Green Gables to tell Anne's story, except for Anne. "I chose those books since I wanted to reach out to the audience that would be the first to see the show. I found that these books could be used as a pivotal point for our audience of college students. That's because college students still reflect on their childhood, the happy carefree times with some bumps and bruises along the way, that built them into the people they are today." 11
Photo by David Norris
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INVESTING IN FUTURES After thirty-eight years of teaching business courses and guiding students, Professor Dean Shoop retires BY LANCE SCHWARTZ DIRECTOR OF INSTITUTIONAL COMMUNICATION
ad you attended Bethany sometime during the past thirty-eight years, whether you were a student in one of Professor Dean Shoop's courses or not, you've most likely taken part in a casual conversation with him. And if you're one of the many who have learned in his classroom, it's likely you picked up much more than just economic theory or business knowledge from him. Shoop is a people person, and getting to know his students is an endearing part of his nature. Before Bethany ever considered becoming a baccalaureate campus, Shoop was teaching and mentoring students in his own personal and meaningful way. Shoop's interest in his students' well-being goes beyond the lecture hall. He has their respect in the classroom, but he's a friend outside of it. He's one of those faculty members former students and alumni always ask about. Long before we actively talked about the mentoring atmosphere at Bethany, Dean Shoop was carrying it out. If a student had a tough time grasping a concept, Shoop would make sure it was addressed. If the whole class was needing some extra study time,
Shoop would schedule an after-class session. It's a genuine caring that goes beyond the subject matter, and you'd be hard-pressed to find a Bethany graduate that doesn't have a story about Shoop's love for the classroom and his students. Shoop gets to know the students in his classes in a way that stays with them. It's an honest approach, never about the professor's knowledge, always about the student's ability to understand the subject. And there are examples of that caring attitude beyond the mentoring that is part of Shoop's routine. Take for example the business department textbook fund he started in 2000. Even eighteen years ago, the average cost of a college textbook was approaching $300 for a single class. Shoop came up with a forward-thinking way to help keep the cost of textbooks lower for students in Bethany's upper-division business classes. He worked with alumni and foundations to start an endowment fund that buys textbooks for students. Shoop explained the plan for an article that appeared in the March 2013 issue of the Bethany Report magazine. CONTINUED ON PAGE 14
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File photo by David Norris
Shoop worked with alumni and foundations to start an endowment that buys department textbooks for students. The endowment has been going since 2000.
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"I just wanted to find a way to help the students. This seemed like a great option. It really was an effort made possible by the donors. And it's been gratifying to see that the students who've benefited from the program are now loyal contributors to the fund." Considering Shoop's student-first approach, it's probably not a surprise to learn about his own low-key approach to retirement. No big party. No fanfare. No nonsense. Yet, when sitting down to discuss his decision to retire, it was apparent that the decision wasn't easy. When asked what he'll miss the most about Bethany after leaving the classroom, with a hint of emotion in his voice but without hesitation Shoop said, "The students, for sure the students, and we've had some very good ones at Bethany." And then it was on to the next chapter. Shoop is certain that now is the right time to retire. As much as he loves the classroom and his students, he's indeed a family guy at heart. He, and his wife LuAnn ('75), are looking forward to time with their twelve grandchildren (number thirteen coming soon). They also have a list of things they want to try including a ballroom dance class this coming fall, traveling (Shoop loves to get in the car and go where the road takes him), and attending some great concerts. But to fully understand Dean Shoop's Bethany story you need to go back to 1973 when he arrived on the campus after being recruited to play basketball for Coach Ron Younge. And even though his older brother also attended Bethany and played basketball for the Vikings, the younger Shoop wasn't completely convinced that Bethany was the place for him. "I was a little concerned that Mankato might not have enough to do." Today he'll tell you, "I probably had some growing up to do when I [arrived at Bethany]." Shoop will also tell you Christianity wasn't part of his life when he arrived in Mankato. Although he grew up Methodist, he willingly mentions, "I was an atheist when I started at Bethany." But little by little Bethany, and her mission, started to change the way Shoop looked at the world. "It probably occurred to me first when I went home to visit. I began to understand that my Bethany friends were different than friends I had back home."
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And the Holy Spirit went to work on Shoop. The daily chapel services, a girlfriend (and future wife) who encouraged him in his faith, and the exposure to The One Thing Needful all played a part. It's not an understatement to say that Bethany truly changed Dean Shoop's life, and he's grateful for the experience. "I love Bethany. I love the people. That's why I came back to teach. That's why I never left." Shoop earned his associate in arts from Bethany in 1975 and continued his education at Augsburg University where he earned a bachelor of arts in 1977. He taught high school business courses in Andover, Minnesota, for four years before returning to Bethany where he literally was the business department for many years. His broad training (master's in economics from the University of Wisconsin, Madison, and an MBA from Minnesota State University, Mankato) allowed him to be a versatile business professor covering a wide variety of courses and topics. At least ten different courses to be exact including micro and macroeconomics—the fundamental business requirement where so many students got to know him. So, after thirty-eight years of service to the students of Bethany Lutheran College, Dean Shoop is not going to worry about leading another 8 a.m. economics lecture. To say he'll be missed on campus, is an understatement. Alumnus Adam Holtz ('04) perhaps said it best from a student's point of view. "Professor Shoop‌ taught students for decades how to be good stewards of the gifts they are given by God. [He] will leave a legacy at Bethany, but his real legacy will be away from the campus, where the students to whom he has taught economics, accounting, finance, and investments have gone into the world to successfully manage their businesses, clients, and lead their families, all while prioritizing The One Thing Needful." Vice President of Academics Jason Lowrey said, "Dean's history here at Bethany has been instrumental to so many graduates who have gone on to successful careers in the business world. And more importantly, students have been truly impacted by Shoop's honesty, integrity, and personal attention to their needs. There's no doubt that when people think of Bethany, and our commitment to personal mentoring, they think of Dean Shoop. We thank God for Dean Shoop's thirty-eight diligent years of service to our campus."
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Bethany archives photo
Photo by FJ Gaylor
Purely by coincidence did these photos bear a striking similarity from Shoop teaching in the mid 1980s (left) to leading students in 2016.
Bethany archives photo
Dean Shoop (holding trophy) after Bethany won the Blue Waters Classic in 1975.
"I love Bethany. I love the people. That's why I came back to teach. That's why I never left." - DEAN SHOOP
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BY L A N C E S C H WA R T Z • D I R EC TO R O F I N S T I T U T I O N A L COM MU N I C AT I O N
Coaches and members of Bethany's esports team.
Vikings esports team set to compete in fall
President Gene Pfeifer gave remarks at the official kickoff event for varsity esports.
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Bethany made its entry into the world of competitive computer gaming official on Tuesday evening April 23, 2019, with an exciting kickoff for its new varsity esports team. Bethany is taking its new esports program to the highest level possible by joining the premier collegiate sanctioning organization— the National Association of Collegiate Esports (NACE). The College is currently recruiting new students interested in becoming part of the esports team. The director of the program is Lucas Fricke, who also teaches in the languages (German, Spanish) department, and the team's head coach is Seth Grabow, Production Studio Specialist at Bethany. Participation scholarships are available for esports team members with the value similar to other activity scholarships already being awarded in areas such as art, journalism, and music. The scholarships are part of the student's overall financial award package.
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Lucas Fricke, Bethany eports Program Director, answered questions from those in attendance at the official kickoff event, Tuesday, April 23, 2019, in Honsey Hall.
The official esports logos were unveiled at the event.
At the kickoff event, Vice President for Student Affairs, Dr. Ted Manthe, explained that the team will share the same structure as other varsity team sports at the College. "Just like any student athlete, [esports competitors] will be mindful of their academic success…and Bethany as a liberal arts college has a number of employees who are poised and ready to make this happen."
Bethany President Gene Pfeifer participated in the event and noted that the addition of esports might prove to be a catalyst to broaden Bethany's already successful media and broadcast programs. Pfeifer explained, "In launching an esports program [our intent] is to link Bethany's unique niche in media arts broadcasting such as our Maverick hockey broadcasts with esports. And I'm pleased to note that a Bethany graduate is one of the most visible world-wide figures in esports gaming. I had the pleasure of visiting with Bethany alumnus Erik (DOA) Lonnquist in Los Angeles, and experienced first-hand the competitive and collaborative environment of professional gaming." Lonnquist is a 2006 Bethany graduate, and is a professional commentator for the internationally popular Overwatch League. He participated in the kickoff event via a pre-recorded video, also noting that Bethany's history of producing well-qualified graduates in communication and broadcast will be a distinctive aspect of the esports program. Lonnquist commented, "Bethany is uniquely positioned to become a leader in training future esports broadcasting talent and crew because of the College's ability to let students get hands on with sports production through live broadcast capabilities and excellent facilities. Honsey Hall is also a great place to host aspiring esports pros, and I wouldn't be surprised to see some great players emerge from the student ranks over time!" Program Director Lucas Fricke also spoke about the notable academic component to esports participation. He explained, "Esports create and promote marketable skills. I've heard it said, nobody cares how hard you can throw a ball or if you can kick it through a goal, but if you can compete in a team environment at the highest level while using technology, that is marketable." Students interested in learning more about esports are encouraged to speak with Director Fricke by calling him at 800-944-3066 or by sending an email to esports@blc.edu. 17
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PATIENT
EDUCATION
Photo courtesy of Sara Traylor
BY L ANCE SCHWARTZ • DIREC TOR OF INSTITUTIONAL COM MUNICATION
From left: Associate Professor Deborah Matzke-Lewis, Brian Heintz, Meagan Bixby, Liz Markel, Katie Bockoven, Assistant Professor Emily Goetzke, and Director of Nursing Sara Traylor in the nursing classroom after the 2019 Spring Commencement Ceremony.
Nursing program receives full accreditation
Photo by David Norris
Meagan Bixby spoke on behalf of the graduating students at Bethany's first nursing pinning ceremony.
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There were just four students in Bethany’s first bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) class of graduates in May 2019. That shouldn’t be surprising to anyone. After all, these students were pioneers when they entered a program that didn’t yet have a graduate, hadn’t offered a class, and was not yet accredited. But just a short month after these first nursing graduates walked across the stage to receive their BSN degrees, both their futures and that of the program were solidified with the announcement that Bethany’s Nursing Program has received full accreditation from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). CCNE is the premier, nationally-recognized accrediting agency for baccalaureate, graduate, and residency programs in nursing. Acknowledged by the United States Secretary of Education, CCNE serves as the official accreditation arm of the American Association of Colleges of Nursing. The CCNE Board uses four standards for accreditation status. Three standards are categorized under the theme of Program Quality and include: Mission and Governance; Institutional Commitment and Resources; and Curriculum and Teaching-Learning Practices. There is one category under the theme Program Effectiveness which monitors Assessment and Achievement of Program Outcomes. The Board
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determined that Bethany’s program meets all four accreditation standards, and also determined there are no compliance concerns with respect to the key elements. Dr. Sara (Merseth ‘96) Traylor was appointed Director of Nursing at Bethany in July 2014. During the past five years, Traylor has worked with the College administration, state, and national agencies to satisfy all of the requirements related to the development of the nursing program. The process began with the College producing a letter of intent for the Minnesota Board of Nursing which summarized why Bethany should be considered worthy to offer a nursing program. The initial state approval process was a three-phase program required to develop the BSN program.
Benchmarks for the state and national processes • October 2015 - The State of Minnesota accepted Bethany’s document of intent for the development of a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) program. • August 2016 - The Minnesota Board of Nursing completed campus and clinical site visits and granted formal approval for the launch of the BSN program. • August 2017 - Bethany offered its first bachelor of science in nursing courses and began clinicals for nursing students. • September 2018 - The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) visited the Bethany campus. • June 2019 - The CCNE Board of Commissioners granted accreditation to the baccalaureate degree program in nursing at Bethany Lutheran College for five years.
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Photo by David Norris
From left: Liz Markel, Brian Heintz, Katie Bockoven, and Meagan Bixby at the nursing pinning ceremony held in Trinity Chapel.
The significance of all this work clearly came into focus on May 9, 2019, when the Class of 2019 participated in the first-ever nursing pinning ceremony in Bethany’s Trinity Chapel. A pinning ceremony is a time-honored nursing school tradition. It is a separate celebration from receiving a diploma. The pinning ceremony tends to be more intimate and involves new nursing graduates and their families as well as nursing faculty members. For nursing graduates, the pinning ceremony can be just as meaningful as receiving their diploma at the graduation ceremony. For these first-ever Bethany nursing graduates, there is no doubt it was a special experience. The nursing pin is worn by nurses to identify the nursing school from which they graduated. The pinning ceremony symbolizes the graduate’s achievement of completing the educational requirements and marks their transition into the profession. Some ceremonies dictate that family members pin the new graduates, while others have nursing school faculty members place pins. Most pins have symbolic meaning, often representing the history of that school of nursing. In the case of Bethany Lutheran College, the pin was designed to represent Bethany’s philosophy behind the baccalaureate nursing program. The pin is embossed with the Nightingale Lamp set atop caring hands to signify the lamp of learning and the care that nurses bring to their profession and work. A cross behind the lamp and hands symbolizes Bethany’s foundation of Christian faith. At the bottom of the pin are the letters BSN, to identify the degree offered at Bethany Lutheran College.
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STUDENTSHORTS
Sam Shubert ///////////// Recent Bethany media arts graduate Sam Shubert ('19) spent a semester studying at the Los Angeles Film Studies Center (LAFSC) in California. LAFSC is a member of the Council for Christian Colleges & Universities (CCCU), which Bethany Lutheran College joined in 2017. LAFSC specializes in film production. Students learn to shoot and edit while being guided by faculty who are working professionals and highly regarded experts in their field. Part of the sixteen-credit semester at LAFSC is a required internship. Once students are accepted into the program they work with the coordinator to find an internship. Shubert interned at AbelCine in Burbank, California, a film production rental house where he gained experience with some of the top film cameras in the industry. In addition to the internship, Shubert had a full slate of courses which included a Hollywood production workshop, a narrative storytelling class, and a faith and artistic development course, which focused on how faith can play a role in your development in the industry. Shubert spent his first three years at Bethany involved with the Minnesota State hockey broadcast program, an experience that helped prepare him for LAFSC. "A lot of the terminology and equipment knowledge I've gained through the broadcast was very helpful in learning the film side," he explained.
Bethany Production Studio Manager Greg Vandermause sees more opportunities like Shubert's on the horizon for students. "We are looking further into building a semester off campus into the media arts program for students looking to specialize in film." After extending his college career by one semester as result of his time at LAFSC, Shubert earned his bachelor of arts from Bethany in May 2019. Upon graduation from Bethany, Shubert accepted a position as corporate videographer with Cambria Corporation of Le Sueur, Minnesota.
MacKenna Hinz ////// Perhaps the most important individual award from the Upper Midwest Athletic Conference (UMAC) is its Scholar-Athlete Leadership Award. Through this award, the UMAC recognizes the role athletics plays in developing leaders by rewarding athletes' excellence in the classroom as well as service to the community. The award is given annually to one male and one female graduating senior from UMAC member-institutions. This year, Bethany Lutheran College senior MacKenna Hinz ('19) was the 2019 female award recipient. Hinz graduated in May 2019 with a major in biology, minors in chemistry and Spanish, and earned Magna Cum Laude distinction. She made the Dean's list in every semester of enrollment and was a four-time UMAC Academic All-Conference member. In the summer of 2018, Hinz was chosen as an intern for the Health Partners Neuroscience Center where she worked as a research assistant for three months. At the conclusion of her internship, she was a contributor to a published article in the journal Spinal Cord Series and Cases. For the 2018-19 school year, Hinz served as the president of Bethany's Scholastic Leadership Society, an organization that handles volunteerism and post-graduation opportunities. 20
In addition to her academic accomplishments, Hinz demonstrated great leadership ability as well. She was the 2018 volleyball team captain. She also played key roles on Bethany's Student Athlete Advisory Committee for three years including secretary and president. Finally, she also demonstrated leadership in her role as a resident assistant where she planned and ran campus events. Hinz was a member of the BLC volleyball team from 2015-2018 and the track and field team in 2016 and 2017. As a volleyball player, she eclipsed the 1,000 career digs mark, received UMAC Defensive Player of the Week honors, and received the UMAC Sportsmanship Award in 2018.
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S TU D E NT AC TI V ITI E S
IN GOOD COMPANY Photo by Anthony Miller
BY L ANCE SCHWARTZ • DIREC TOR OF INSTITUTIONAL COM MUNICATION
Bethany students and staff pictured at the WCHA Championship hockey game in Mankato, Minnesota, on March 23, 2019.
Broadcast crew nominated for national award Bethany Lutheran College's award-winning production studio (BLC Studios), was nominated for a College Sports Media Award (CSMA) for their work directing and producing Minnesota State University Maverick Hockey broadcasts. The Sports Video Group (SVG) and the National Association of Collegiate Directors of Athletics (NACDA) support the award and together recognize the best in sports production from college and university campuses across the country, and the staff that makes them possible. Winners were selected by a panel of judges and announced at the 11th-annual CSMA ceremony on May 31, 2019, during the SVG College Summit at the Omni Hotel at CNN Center in Atlanta. The CSMAs are comprised of 20 categories for entry in four divisions: Professional; Collegiate Conferences and Governing Bodies; Collegiate Athletics; and Collegiate Students. With over 300 colleges and universities represented, Bethany's student-run production was nominated in the Outstanding Live
Game Production category in the Collegiate Student division. There are roughly 20-23 Bethany students who produce the games from the College's 30-foot mobile production trailer. The students also produce graphics for and run a state-of-the-art Daktronics video board in the Mankato Civic Center arena. Bethany Lutheran College has been broadcasting Minnesota State University hockey home games for the past 18 seasons. This marks the second time the program has been nominated for an SVG College Media Award—the other nomination was in 2014. Greg Vandermause, BLC's Production Studio Manager and Executive Producer, oversees the entire production. "This is a great honor," said Vandermause. "I am very happy for our students. They worked extremely hard this past season and it is great to have their work recognized on a national level."
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BY DON WESTPHAL • DIREC TOR OF ATHLE TICS
SOFTBALL CLAIMS UMAC CHAMPIONSHIP The Bethany Softball team claimed their first-ever regular season Upper Midwest Athletic Conference (UMAC) championship with a sweep of the UW-Superior Yellowjackets. The Vikings and Yellowjackets battled late in the regular season, each owning a 12-0 conference record, with the Vikings coming out on top and earning the top seed in the UMAC tournament. The team entered the tournament with a 15-1 conference record and set a record for most wins in a season (27). INDIVIDUAL AWARDS: • Shelby Bloemendaal (Freshman) Pipestone, Minn., UMAC All-Defensive Team • Zoe Kinakin (Freshman) Victoria, British Columbia, UMAC Rookie of the Year, First Team All-Conference • Taylor Kottke (Sophomore) Maple Grove, Minn., UMAC Sportsmanship Award • Bria Majeski (Junior) Rockford, Minn., First Team All-Conference • Kaylee Mork (Sophomore) Brandon, S. Dak., UMAC All-Defensive Team • Haylee Sobrero (Junior) Paradise, Calif., First Team All-Conference • Courtney Williams (Freshman) Fairmont, Minn., All-Conference Honorable Mention
BASEBALL WINS CONSECUTIVE POST-SEASON TITLES The Bethany baseball team was the UMAC regular season runner up (13-3) and the team swept through the conference tournament to claim their second consecutive title. The UMAC championship gave the Vikings an automatic bid to the NCAA Regional for the second time in program history, making it back-to-back appearances for the Vikings. INDIVIDUAL AWARDS: • Ben Boran (Senior) Waterville, Minn., UMAC Player of the Year, First Team All-Conference, D3baseball.com All Midwest Region, Third Team All American • Grant Becher (Junior) Wells, Minn., First Team All-Conference, D3baseball.com All Midwest Region Second Team • Ross Beumer (Sophomore) Northfield, Minn., First Team All-Conference, D3baseball.com All Midwest Region Second Team • Nick Caldeen (Senior) Blaine, Minn., First Team All-Conference. • Adam Fjerstand (Sophomore) Hayfield, Minn., First Team All-Conference • Dallas McBroom (Sophomore) Elysian, Minn., First Team All-Conference • Logan Nissen (Junior) Olivia, Minn., Honorable Mention All-Conference • Cody Ulfers (Junior) Waseca, Minn., Honorable Mention All-Conference • Eric Westphal (Senior) North Mankato, Minn., UMAC Sportsmanship Award
MEN’S TENNIS The Bethany men’s tennis team posted a conference record of 3-4 and an overall record of 5-8. Three seniors earned Upper Midwest Athletic Conference honors. INDIVIDUAL AWARDS: • Carter Dahl, Albert Lea, Minn., All-Conference, UMAC Sportsmanship Award • Laine Larson, Long Prairie, Minn., All-Conference • Dalton Werckman, Foley, Minn., All-Conference
WOMEN’S TENNIS The women’s tennis team finished the season with a 3-4 record in the Upper Midwest Athletic Conference and 6-10 overall. INDIVIDUAL AWARDS: • Taylor Bolduan (freshman) New Ulm, Minn., All-Conference • Shoshana Bruner (freshman) Mankato, Minn., UMAC Sportsmanship Award
TRACK & FIELD The Bethany women’s track team tied for fourth place at the UMAC Outdoor Championship and the men earned sixth place. INDIVIDUAL AWARDS: • Keegan Rich (freshman) Mount Pleasant, Iowa, UMAC Outdoor Rookie of the Year, All-Conference • Stefan Prince (senior) Prior Lake, Minn., All-Conference and UMAC Sportsmanship Award • Brianna Soutthivong (senior) Mountain Lake, Minn., UMAC Sportsmanship Award
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VIKINGS MAKE UMAC
ALL-DECADE TEAMS FRELIX
HALLAHAN
PEDERSON
PIPENHAGEN
SANDIN
SCHWECKE
BY SAR A QUINNE LL • UM AC A SSISTANT COM MISSIONER AND DON WESTPHAL • B E THANY DIREC TOR OF ATHLE TICS
Bethany Lutheran College is a member of the Upper Midwest Athletic Conference (UMAC) for all sports. The UMAC completed its 10th season as an NCAA Division III member in 2017-18. The Conference recently honored individuals and teams with All-Decade awards. The individuals represent the top student-athletes in each sport. Six Bethany graduates were named to these All-Decade Teams. In just two seasons of basketball at Bethany, Brandyn Frelix ('18) (Minneapolis, Minn.) helped the Vikings become a contender in the UMAC. Frelix was a two-time All-UMAC First Team selection and was named UMAC Player of the Year in 2016-17. In that same season, Frelix was also an NABC All-Region First Team pick and D3Hoops All-Region Third Team honoree. As a junior, Frelix averaged 20.2 points (4th) and 6.2 rebounds (10th) in conference play. His senior season, he averaged 17.8 points (4th) and 7.9 rebounds (5th). Cody Hallahan ('11) (Silver Lake, Minn.) was an impact baseball pitcher for the Vikings in his two seasons on the mound. During that span, he was twice named All-UMAC First Team and was selected as the 2010 Pitcher of the Year as he led the Vikings to a 16-4 conference mark with 102 total strikeouts. Hallahan ranks second in Vikings history for career earned run average (2.47) and strikeouts (161) and is tied for third for career wins (14). Golfer Jon Pederson ('15) (Waseca, Minn.) competed for the Vikings from 2011-14, boasting four all-conference honors and two runner-up finishes at the UMAC Championship including a career-best 230 (+14) as a senior in 2014. As a junior, Pederson helped Bethany to a conference title and an NCAA tournament appearance the following spring. In three of his four seasons, Pederson led the UMAC in stroke average including a career-best 74.9 in the fall of 2014. One of the most dominant pitchers in the first decade of UMAC play,
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Anna Pipenhagen ('18) (Elk River, Minn.) was a fourtime All-UMAC First Team selection, a three-time UMAC All-Defensive Team pick, and was also named Rookie of the Year in 2015. Pipenhagen also holds numerous Viking career pitching records including the top spot in earned run average (3.08), wins (40), complete games (63), shutouts (12), and strikeouts (656). Haley Sandin ('19) (Zimmerman, Minn.) was a key component in the Vikings four-year climb to their first UMAC title in 2019. Individual awards and accolades for Sandin started coming in after her first season when she was named UMAC Freshman of the Year in 2015-16 and was a four-time All-UMAC First Team selection. Sandin holds numerous Viking career records, including points (1,951), field goals made (602), free throws made (643), assists (410), and steals (290). One of the top baseball players in UMAC history during the NCAA era, Justin Schwecke ('10) (Buffalo Lake, Minn.) was named All-UMAC First Team and was the Player of the Year in both 2009 and 2010 after leading the Vikings to runner-up conference campaigns. He is one of just two players to twice earn Player of the Year at the NCAA level. Each of those seasons he led the UMAC in hits. During his four Viking seasons, Schwecke set program records for career runs (148), hits (192), doubles (47), triples (16), RBI (150), total bases (310), and stolen bases (43).
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TURF TIME BY L ANCE SCHWARTZ • DIREC TOR OF INSTITUTIONAL COM MUNICATION
An aerial photo is combined with an artistic rendering of the new soccer field being constructed in the location of the old baseball field.
The Bethany Lutheran College athletic fields will take on a new look with the construction of a new artificial turf soccer field during the summer of 2019. Preliminary site work began on May 6, 2019. Work is expected to continue throughout the summer. The Bethany Lutheran College Board of Regents and Evangelical Lutheran Synod Trustees authorized the changes and construction at their February 2019 meetings. Robert W. Carlstrom Company of Mankato is managing the $3 million project for the College. Other companies involved include: • FieldTurf Corporation will install the artificial turf playing surface. FieldTurf has more than 20,000 installations worldwide, including 6,500 in North America. • BLK Electric (Mankato) is the electrical contractor responsible for relocation of electrical utilities. • Holtmeier Construction (Mankato) is providing excavation services. • Musco Lighting will fit the field with new, state-of-the-art lighting. • Seating & Athletic Facility Enterprises LLC is installing new bleachers. • American Fence will put up new perimeter fencing. In addition to the field construction, site improvements on the athletic complex will also take place. A storm water retention pond will be constructed near the intersection of Division and Mulberry Streets, and a new parking lot will occupy the corner of Marsh and Division Streets. Bethany Director of Athletics Don Westphal spoke about the project's impact for the College.
"The addition of a turf field to our campus will pay immediate dividends this fall. A turfed athletic field is another element in a long line of physical plant enhancements that indicate Bethany's commitment to enrich the collegiate experience of our student body." And Westphal remarked the impact of the new field will extend beyond the athletic program. "Beyond our Viking soccer teams and other varsity sports, a turf surface will enhance our intramural program and be utilized by numerous students." Renee Tatge is Bethany's Coordinator of Student Activities and Intramurals. She explained some of the benefits for both Bethany students and the College. "Besides being a great workout and social opportunity for students, participation in intramural sports is linked to higher GPAs and overall student satisfaction. At Bethany, approximately one out of every two students participate in IMs, so I am excited about the extra space the new turf field will afford the IM Department to serve our students." Carlstrom and the sub-contractors are working with an aggressive timeline to complete the work by September 30, 2019. 25
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Photo by Jake Krier
BY L ANCE SCHWARTZ • DIREC TOR OF INSTITUTIONAL COM MUNICATION AND JAKE KRIE R • M ANAG ER OF ALUMNI REL ATIONS
Celebrating with Darwin Beck (center), were (from left) his cousin Cindy Beck, daughter Heidi Beck, his wife Sharron, daughter in-law Lisa Beck, and son Parker.
2019 Distinguished Alumnus
Darwin Beck
Darwin Beck ('60) is the Bethany Lutheran College 2019 Distinguished Alumnus Award recipient. Beck, a native of St. James, Minnesota, is an accomplished and noted economist and monetary policy expert. During his 44-year career, Beck served as economist for the United States Treasury Department and Federal Reserve System, as well as Credit Suisse First Boston. He also authored a number of articles on monetary policy for private organizations and the Federal Reserve System. Beck graduated from St. James High School (Minnesota) in 1955. During his high school days, he wrestled, participated in speech, and was a member of the Future Farmers of America (FFA). But mostly, he helped on the family farm. It was that work on the farm that kept him from enrolling in college until three years after graduating from high school. Beck chose Bethany primarily to be closer to home in order to continue to help on the farm as time permitted. He also thought a small college would help him regain his study habits after being out of school for some time. Beck discovered that Bethany gave him so much more than he anticipated or had hoped for. The experience not only helped to prepare him 26
for a very successful career in economics, but also instilled in him the importance of being strong in your faith, and keeping the Lord at the center of everything in life. Beck said the list of professors that he admired and respected at Bethany is too long to list, but they all helped shape him to lead a strong life professionally, personally, and spiritually. He cherished his time at Bethany with his classmates, and all the lifelong friends that he made. After earning his associate in arts degree from Bethany in the spring of 1960, Beck found a renewed spirit for learning, He enrolled Mankato State University (MSU) and majored in economics earning his degree in 1962. After MSU, he applied and was accepted into a graduate program at the University of Maryland (College Park), earning a master's of economics in 1966. He continued to study at Maryland, and then also at George Washington University completing all his coursework towards a PhD. Beck joined the Office of Financial Analysis of the United States Treasury Department as a general economist in his first post-graduate job. This marked the beginning of a long career in Washington D.C. focusing on economics for the U.S. Government. This office of five professional economists was responsible
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for preparing analytical evaluations of the economic and financial conditions of the United States for use by the Secretary of the Treasury and other Department officials. Beck moved on to become the Senior Economist for the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System. At the Board of Governors, he was a financial economist in the Board's Banking Sector, Division of Research and Statistics. While with the Board he served under four chairmen: William McChesney Martin, Jr., Arthur F. Burns, G. William Miller, and Paul Volcker. Most of his time was devoted to the formulation and implementation of monetary policy. He participated in the daily conference call with the Trading Desk in New York, and prepared reports, memorandum, and Board briefings on bank reserves, bank deposits, bank credit and the monetary aggregates. He supervised a staff of seven, including professionals and support staff. In 1974, he was assigned to a team appointed to provide support for the Blue-Ribbon Advisory Committee on Monetary Statistics. This advisory group consisted of two former Chairmen of the President's Council of Economic Advisors, three former U.S. Presidents of the American Economic Association, one Nobel Laureate, and other prominent members of the economics profession.
"I have always thought that attending Bethany was a great privilege and prepared me for the things that followed in life." - DA RW I N B E CK
From mid-1979 until early 1981, he attended all of the Federal Open Market Committee meetings. In 1981, Beck was hired by Credit Suisse (CS) First Boston as their Director and Economist. At CS First Boston, a top-tier investment banking firm in New York City, he was involved in short- and medium-term analysis and forecasting of monetary, fiscal, and financial market developments, and disseminating this information to CS First Boston's senior management, clients, and customers. While there, he also published Money Market Notes, a biweekly letter on the economy, financial markets, and outlook for monetary policy. In 1996, he returned to Washington D.C. as a U.S.
Photo by David Norris
Darwin Beck received the Distinguished Alumnus Award from Bethany President Gene Pfeifer during the 2019 Spring Commencement Ceremony.
Treasury Advisor for the Office of Technical Assistance. During this period, he had a number of resident and intermittent assignments in the U.S. Treasury's technical assistance program. He served as a resident advisor in the Public Debt Department, Ministry of Finance (MOF) Poland, then on macroeconomic and monetary policy at the National Bank of Ukraine, and also for the Public Debt Department MOF Republic of Moldova. He has also worked with other countries on intermittent assignments including Malawi, Liberia, Egypt, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyz Republic, Jordan, Bosnia, Morocco, Ivory Coast, and Senegal. After a 44-year career in economics, Beck officially retired in 2008. Beck, and his wife Sharron, have been married 56 years and have four children, and seven grandchildren. They make their home in both Aitkin, Minnesota, and Green Valley, Arizona. In his personal time, he enjoys gardening, reading, playing cards, fishing, watching TV, and interacting with his grandchildren. Beck is an active church member in both Minnesota and Arizona. Throughout his life, Beck has held a variety of positions in churches he's attended including elder, president, vice president, treasurer, Sunday school superintendent, building committee, and evangelism committee. When asked about his time at Bethany, and what it means to him, he responded "I have always thought that attending Bethany was a great privilege and prepared me for the things that followed in life. Bethany reinforced values that I have tried to maintain all my life and pass on to my children and grandchildren. "Receiving the award is a great honor, one I never expected and do not think I deserve. However, it is a tremendous honor, which I humbly accept, and it means so much to me."
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from our
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ALUMNI 1960s Allen ('60) and Mary (Younge '60) Hansen will become great-grandparents to #14, #15, and #16 great-grandbabies in May, June, and July 2019. Praise the Lord! Lon ('53) and Miriam (Jungemann '54) Meyer are celebrating their 65th wedding anniversary in July 2019.
1970s
amazing man from California who the Lord deliberately put in my life." Nolan, plays professional baseball, so the couple does not know where they will end up, but they currently live in Watertown, Minnesota. Shelby is billing specialist for Westwood Professional Services. They are confident that the Lord has a path and can't wait to see what He has in store for them.
p Amanda (Scharlemann '10) Quist and her husband Dan were blessed with the birth of their second child, George Marius Quist, on February 5, 2019. George was 22.5 inches long and weighed 9 lbs. 1 oz. at birth. The Quists also have a daughter, Sophie, who is now two years old.
p Trisha (Lynch '11) Perley and her husband Nathaniel welcomed Astrid Sophia on March 11, 2019. She weighed 5 lbs. 13 oz., and was 19 inches long.
p Mark ('72) and Sandra (Sampson '72) Johnson met at Bethany in fall 1970 and graduated together in 1972. The couple recently celebrated their 45th wedding anniversary. They live near Lake Washington outside of Mankato. Mark recycles old log buildings into restored log homes or park buildings under the business name Artisan Restoration LLC. Sandy has been an LPN since 1990 working in hospice, dementia, and long-term care currently for Benedictine Living Care in St. Peter, Minnesota.
1980s Mr. Jim Vinz ('81) was the 2018 Bethany Distinguished Alumnus. During a recent visit to Mankato he met with the members of the Bethany President's Cabinet. Jim is a successful CEO of a national restaurant chain. He led the Cabinet through a decision-making model and explained four major approaches. He also led a discussion with the group.
p Jon and Tanya (Niemuth '08) Homan welcomed their son Mathew Henry to the world on April 28, 2019. John Dvorak ('09) and his wife DeeDee welcomed their son, Mason on April 9, 2019. He weighed 6 lbs. 14 oz., and was 20 inches long. Mom and baby are doing well, and they thank the Lord for this wonderful blessing in their lives.
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p Shelby Sicheneder ('14) recently became Mrs. Hoff on Sept 22, 2018. She married "an 28
Daniel ('13) and Heather (Hewitt '13) Wegner welcomed a new baby boy, Judah Isaiah, on August 10, 2018. They live in Lakeville, Minnesota. Daniel is Worship Director of Northcross Lutheran Church, and Heather is a counselor for Christian Family Solutions.
p Alyssa (Gratz '14) Graif and husband, Foster, welcomed twin daughters, Kennedy Alexandra and Finley Blue, on June 11, 2018, in Minneapolis, Minnesota. They are very happily celebrating their first birthdays in Saint Paul in June 2019. In related family news, Bruce Gratz ('84) is enjoying his new status as proud grandpa.
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p Reverend Samuel ('03) and Anna (Norman '06) Gullixson are happy to announce the birth of Ezra on September 22, 2018. Ezra joins big brothers Abel, Elisha, Matthias, and Boaz. Samuel is currently the Associate Pastor at Parkland Lutheran Church in Parkland, Washington. Anna is a homemaker.
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Orla A. (Anderson '47) Petersen was a secretary at Bethany from 1962 to 1992, and passed away on March 26, 2019.
sister Val Imm Bashour (’47) of Dallas, seven grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews.
Roger Leslie Sorenson ('51) passed away on March, 29 2019.
Doreen (Larson '66) Pehrson passed away on April 27, 2019.
Harold Theiste ('55) went to be with our Savior for Christmas, 2018. A funeral was held at King of Grace Lutheran Church, Golden Valley, Minnesota, on December 21. His widow, Arlene (Eichhorst '54) and family thank God for him and continue his life of service and prayer for Bethany. The family includes current students at Bethany, granddaughter Katie ('19) and her husband Peter ('18) Bockoven, Seminary.
Lorraine (Stalheim '46) Grimsbo passed away on April 24, 2019.
James Grandstrand ('66) passed away on March 31, 2019. p Running the Boston Marathon was always a goal for Megan Sauer ('17). She ran both cross country and track for the Vikings all four years. After qualifying in her first marathon shortly after graduation, Megan continued to better her time by running another marathon in April of 2018. She ran the marathon in 3:13:59, exceeding the minimum requirement of 3:35:00. This run enabled her to register for the Boston Marathon early in September. Megan ran the Boston Marathon on April 15, 2019. She was joined on her trip by her father, Barry, and alumnae sisters Alissa Sauer ('15) and Morgan Sauer ('19). She was able to complete the marathon despite partially tearing her Achilles tendon weeks before.
In Memoriam Margaret Tjernagel Annexstad ('41) passed away in October 2018. Her Christian Funeral service was held on November 7, 2018, at Norseland Lutheran Church, Norseland, Minnesota.
Ruth (Imm ’45) Berry went home to her Lord and Savior May 1, 2019, at her home in Dallas, Texas, with family beside her. She was born March 22, 1928, to Mankato newspaper publisher and state legislator Val Imm and wife Gertrude in Mankato. Ruth was a graduate of Bethany Lutheran High School, and she also attended Mankato State Teachers College (Minnesota State University) where her interests focused on sociology. Ruth was first and foremost a fiercely loyal Christian wife, mother, daughter, sister, aunt, grandmother, great grandmother, and friend. She was an avid reader with endless intellectual theological curiosity. She loved the Word of God and unfailingly shared her convictions with those she came in contact through the years. She lived and died sowing the seeds of Biblical truth to the best of her considerable ability. She is survived by her children Barbara Berry, Robert (Bob) Berry (Kelli), Ann Hodapp (Rusty),
Sandra (Kettner '54) Grunst passed away on May 21, 2019. Kathryn (Borgschatz '64) Augustine passed away on Monday, December 10, 2018, at her home in Goodhue, Minnesota. Her funeral wa s on Sat urday, December 15, 2018, at St. John's Lutheran Church in Goodhue. She is survived by her husband, John, of 49 years, three sons, and seven grandchildren. Linda (Zawacki ‘71) Loge, age 68, of Mankato, died on June 9, 2019, after a long battle with cancer. Linda was an admissions counselor at Bethany for nineteen years (1996-2015). Her love for the College was evident in all she did to help students find and enroll at BLC. Linda earned an associate in arts degree from Bethany and went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in social work and corrections from Mankato State College. She was a member of Mt. Olive Lutheran Church, Mankato, and enjoyed reading, exercising, traveling, baking, and gardening. A funeral service was held at Mt. Olive on Thursday, June 13, 2019. Linda is survived by her two children, Lorelee (’96) Hood and her husband Philip of Lake Bluff, Illinois, and Eric Loge (’97) and his wife Sally of Finksburg, Maryland, five grandchildren, as well as many others in her large extended family.
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A LUM N I
J U LY 20 19
Alumni Gatherings Members of the Bethany Class of 1960 gathered to celebrate Darwin Beck being honored as the 2019 Distinguished Alumnus Award recipient. Back row from left: Elaine (Dunteman) Kain, Allen Hansen, Darwin Beck, Rev. Erling Teigen Front row from left: Donna (Fredrickson) Fowler, Vivian (Unseth) Weseloh, Evelyn (Schlomer) Taus, Mary (Younge) Hansen
Alumni from the classes of 1986, 1987, and 1988 gathered in Mankato in March 2019 to remember the life of Randy Kottke (’87) who passed away in January 2019. Pictured (from left) are Rebecca (Schmidt ’87) Cook, Betty (Freitag ’88) Alders, Brent Jaeger (’87), Steve Eckers (’87), Pete Meyer (’87), Kurt Sarno ’(87), Ivan Acevedo (’87), Tracey Gothard (’87), Tracey (Ferley ’87) Makela, Jeff Brudwick (’86), Lance Schwartz (’86), Chan Smith (’86), and Kim (Tobiason ’87) Caouette.
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B E TH A N Y Magazine
Bethany
RETROSPECT
Remembering a campus moment from years gone by.
ROASTING TIME: A short ways down the hill from Old Main, there was a place nicknamed 'the amphitheater' where this photo shows people roasting food. Do you recognize anyone from this photo or what year it was taken? Send your response to editor@blc.edu. Find more photos from years past on archives.blc.edu. 31
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