Summer 2006 Bethany Report

SUMMER 2006

Bethany report

the magazine of bethany lutheran college

7 Community, student collaboration 10 Athletic Hall of Fame inductees 14 Bethany graduates honored for work

from the president

Community integration

B

ethany Lutheran College takes its role seriously as an active member of the Greater Mankato Community. Learning does not just take place in the classroom. Co-curricular activities and practical work-related experiences such as internships and community service projects prove to be powerful partnerships with classroom learning. When coupled, these experiences all play an integral role in preparing students for the world beyond the campus. In this issue of the Bethany Report, you can read about a partnership created by one of our recent graduates that benefits both our students and a publishing company producing children’s books right here in Mankato.

The college regularly works hard to find opportunities for students to, not only become competent in their chosen fields of study, but also link their expertise to support and build the communities in which we live. The monthly taping of the television show “Between The Lines” is one such example.

This show, taped in our Communication Studio and aired across the state on many cable systems, is produced and directed entirely by students and faculty at BLC, and features lawmakers from throughout Minnesota talking about issues at the State Capitol. This is a tremendous opportunity for aspiring journalists and producers to work on such an important program that directly gives back to the broader community.

President Dan Bruss Another innovative program that has its origins at Bethany joins our students and Minnesota State University students with local business people. The “Collegiate Leadership Series” hosts monthly meetings and affords our students the opportunity to learn firsthand about business issues and connect with business leaders. These connections have facilitated internship placements for our students at associations like the Greater Mankato Chamber of Commerce, the Greater Mankato Economic Development Corporation, and at a variety of nonprofit organizations. We are not surprised that we regularly receive unsolicited feedback from the local community about how pleased they are with the high level of professionalism of our students and the solid Christian values they bring with them.

These are just a few examples of ways our students serve and learn from local practitioners, put their education into practice, and realize the importance of volunteering in their community. This is liberal arts education at its best. As Bethany moves forward we are eager to build on these experiences and expand the opportunities we can provide our students to directly connect the classroom with the workplace and the community.

Bethany report editor | Lance Schwartz design, photography | David Norris proofreaders | Sarah Harstad Jon Kovaciny Elayne Luiken Shannon Reichel Tami Tillman

contributors | Don Westphal Shannon Reichel Please direct all correspondence, letters, news, corrections, and comments to: Bethany Lutheran College Bethany report 700 Luther Drive Mankato, MN 56001-6163 Email: alumni@blc.edu | www.blc.edu 507.344.7000 | 800.944.3066 FAX: 507.344.7417 ISSUE: CVI The Report is published quarterly by the Bethany Lutheran College public relations office and distributed free of charge to the college’s students, faculty, staff, alumni, and friends.

All contents © COPYRIGHT 2006 Bethany Lutheran College. Articles, images or photographs may not be reproduced without written permission.

Mission: Bethany Lutheran College, owned and operated by the Evangelical Lutheran Synod, is a private, residential, liberal arts college committed to the teachings of the Bible as set forth in the Lutheran Confessions. Bethany provides studies culminating in a bachelor of arts degree.

The college serves Lutherans and others by offering a challenging, student-centered approach to education that fosters spiritual development, intellectual and creative growth, self-understanding, and responsible citizenship.

In keeping with its heritage, Bethany aspires to produce students with a clear understanding of Christian vocation, which calls for people to make the most of their Godgiven talents in whatever walk of life they pursue.

Bethany Lutheran College Board of Regents: Rev. John A. Moldstad, Sr., Chair Harold A. Theiste, Vice Chair Rev. Kenneth V. Schmidt, Secretary Willis Anthony, Ph.D. Rev. Mark Bartels Jon C. Bruss Paul T. Chamberlin Rev. Herbert C. Huhnerkoch James Minor Roland Reinholtz Rev. J. Kincaid Smith, D.Min. Rev. Joel Willitz Advisory Members: Pres. Dan R. Bruss, Ph.D. Rev. Lawrence A. Burgdorf Lyle Fahning Rev. John A. Moldstad, ELS President William Overn

On the cover: The annual Young Michaelangelo Art Camp gives students in grades 5–12 an opportunity to receive instruction in drawing, painting, and cartooning.

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report | summer 2006

from the chapeL July 5, 2006 Psalm 25, selected verses: 1 To You, O LORD, I lift up my soul. 2O my God, I trust in You; Let me not be ashamed; Let not my enemies triumph over me.

6 Remember, O LORD, Your tender mercies and Your lovingkindnesses, for they are from of old. 7Do not remember the sins of my youth, nor my transgressions; according to Your mercy remember me, for Your goodness’ sake, O LORD. 11For Your name’s sake, O LORD, pardon my iniquity, for it is great. 16Turn Yourself to me, and have mercy on me, for I am desolate and afflicted. 17The troubles of my heart have enlarged; Bring me out of my distresses! 18Look on my affliction and my pain, and forgive all my sins.

The verse of Scripture which states the theme for this third week after Trinity is found in the historic Gospel from Luke 15. It is the complaint of the Pharisees concerning Jesus. They said about him: “This man receives sinners and eats with them.”

These words were, of course, intended to be a devastating negative criticism of Jesus.

They represent an attempt at Rev. Mark Harstad establishing guilt by association. His critics were saying, “Just look at the kind of people this Jesus of Nazareth hangs around with!

Isn’t it awful? And some contend that he is a great prophet or spiritual teacher. Impossible! Just look at the facts. Look at the people he associates with; known sinners and social outcasts of every type and description. No true prophet or teacher could possibly allow himself to be associated with such low-lifes and riffraff.”

But those words of the Pharisees, “This Jesus of Nazareth receives sinners and eats with them,” have become for the faithful of every age words of comfort and hope. They were intended by those who first spoke them to lay down the Law with all its condemning force. In fact, they have become one of the most precious proclamations of the Gospel that you can find in Scripture.

Those words provided Jesus with a great teaching moment. He seized the moment to tell three parables, the parables of the lost sheep, the lost coin, education that lasts beyond a lifetime

and the lost (or prodigal) son. All of those parables teach how a loving God seeks out, associates with, and saves lost sinners.

The Psalm which has long been associated with that Gospel text from Luke 15 is Psalm 25. And this Psalm is a very good fit for the theme of the week concerning how the Savior receives sinners. By means of its words the faithful acknowledge that they are among those who deserve to be included in the category of sinners. By using the words of this Psalm we place ourselves among the lost ones, the lost sheep, the lost coin, the lost son of Jesus’ parables.

The Psalm writer, King David, piled up expressions acknowledging the problem of the human condition in alienation from God. The Hebrew language has many synonyms for sin. David uses many of them here. He confessed the sins of his youth. He confessed his many transgressions. He confessed that his iniquity was great.

Because of the magnitude of his sin he described his condition in these terms: He was desolate and afflicted. His troubles were enlarged. Distress, affliction, and pain characterized his existence.

He made no excuses for himself, sought no extenuating circumstances in his environment, blamed nobody else, made no attempt to say that he was better than somebody else, presented no case for himself on the basis of any alleged good character, or on account of wonderful things he had done for other people. None of that. We find here just confession of sin and lament of the consequences of sin in his life.

And yet, he is bold to address God. On what basis?

He makes that very clear. “Remember, O Lord, your tender mercies and your lovingkindness.” He makes his appeal to God on the basis of qualities in God, not in himself. The term lovingkindness refers to the covenant love of God, that love by which he bound himself to his people, not because they were good in themselves, but because God, out of his mercy, had made them his own, and promised not to leave them or forsake them.

“According to your mercy remember me, for your goodness sake.” It can’t be made any clearer than that. God’s mercy and goodness: Here is hope for Chapel continued on page 5 3

campus news

on campus

By Lance Schwartz Director of Marketing and Public Relations

T

he Bethany campus is abuzz with activity during the academic year, but did you know the campus is also a very busy place during the summer months?

Photos by David Norris

Above: Volleyball Camp participants took part in drills to sharpen their playing skills.

Right: Playing as a team was emphasized during one of the many basketball camps.

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Beginning in June, the Sports and Fitness Center becomes the epicenter for several events. Basketball and volleyball camps keep both gymnasiums filled with grade school through high school agedathletes. The College also hosts a summer basketball league for varsity and junior varsity high school teams from southern Minnesota. The Athletic Department holds soccer and baseball camps each summer at the Bethany Athletic Complex on the College campus. Hundreds of aspiring young athletes attend these popular camps.

The Bethany sports camps alone attracted 951 participants during the summer months of 2006.

The Sports and Fitness Center also plays host to the annual convention of the Evangelical Lutheran Synod (ELS). The 2006 convention was held June 19-22.

The convention, attended by nearly 350 delegates and ELS pastors, is one of the largest events to take place on the campus each year.

Camps are not limited to athletics alone.

For those who think that the Ylvisaker Fine Arts Center indulges in extended “slumber� for the summer months, a walk

down the hallway during June would quickly correct that impression. For two weeks, June 12-16 and June 19-24 this year, Professor William Bukowski stirred the creative juices of ninety-six students in his Young Michelangelo Art Camp.

The camp welcomes young people from grades 5-8 in the mornings and opens to high school artists in the afternoons.

Bukowski has been offering the camp since the summer of 1988, including instruction in drawing, painting, and cartooning for all students as well as an opportunity to experience oil painting for the high school artists.

June 18 – 23 brought an additional twenty-eight high school students to the campus for Honor Choir Camp directed

by Professor Dennis Marzolf. These singers were joined by six current Bethany College choir members who functioned as counselors as well as mentors for the week. Honor Choir is held in conjunction with the annual convention of the Evangelical Lutheran Synod each summer and provides several opportunities for performance during convention services.

report | summer 2006

Photos by David Norris

The Honor Choir Camp culminated in a performace in Trinity Chapel.

In addition to rehearsals and vocal study the students learn a great deal about the history of Lutheran music as well as enjoying a variety of activities in Mankato and the Twin Cities. Honor Choir is open to students currently in high school and is a residential camp with meals and housing provided on the Bethany campus.

To add to the general air of excitement and activity for the week of June 1924, Peter Bloedel and Matthew Caron (theatre) directed Theatre Bible School (TBS) for children in grades 3-8. TBS was organized and operated in cooperation between Mt. Olive Lutheran Church and Bethany. Over forty students prepared and presented three Bible story

plays, all written for TBS by Bloedel and Caron. Performances were done for a local preschool, ELS conventioneers, parents and families, and an audience of invited preschool and elementary children.

Finally, the Science Department held the second annual Science Camp in June.

Camp participants performed a wide array of experiments. Everything from exploding balloons with hydrogen and oxygen, investigating simulated crimes scenes and learning how to check toothbrushes for evidence, shooting potatoes from a homemade cannon, and even performing the now-famous (thanks to the Internet) Diet Coke and Mentos experiment.

If you would like to be included on the mailing lists for any of these camps you may call the following numbers: Young Michelangelo or Honor Choir • Contact Lois Jaeger at Lois.Jaeger@blc.edu or call Bethany at 800-944-3066 ext. 365 Athletic Camps • Contact Melissa Hofland at Melissa.Hofland@blc.edu or call 800-944-3066 ext. 859 Science Camps • Contact Glenda Williams at Glenda.Williams@blc.edu or call 800-944-3066 ext. 736

Top: Theatre Bible School students performed three Bible story plays.

Lois Jaeger, Fine Arts Director, contributed to this story.

Above: Science Camp students used a potato gun as part of their experiment.

cast all our sins into the depths of the sea.

You will give truth to Jacob and mercy to Abraham, which You have sworn to our fathers from days of old.

Such a description of God invites faith.

To such a gracious God we are invited to say along with David: “To You, O Lord, I lift up my soul; O my God, I trust in You.” Through his Son in human flesh God addresses us: “Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick. I did not come to call the righteous, but sinners, to repentance.”

He has done all for the redemption of sinners: He made himself the sin offering, the sacrifice of atonement by which our redemption was won. He instituted the sacred Means of Grace, the Gospel in Word and Sacrament, by which He gives forgiveness, and by which the Holy Spirit creates the miracle of faith in the hearts and minds of sinners.

We have a Savior who receives sinners, associates with them, eats with them.

Blessed are you in the knowledge of this Savior. Amen.

Chapel continued from page 3

sinners. The God who reveals himself to us in the Scriptures and in his Son in human flesh, Jesus of Nazareth, is the God who receives sinners and eats with them. The Prophet Micah describes the God of the Bible to us in these terms: Who is a God like You, pardoning iniquity and passing over the transgression of the remnant of His heritage?

He does not retain His anger forever, because He delights in mercy. He will again have compassion on us, And will subdue our iniquities. You will education that lasts beyond a lifetime

5

students

Hartwig wins Hollywood internship

By Amanda Dyslin Staff Writer for the Mankato Free Press Originally published July 26, 2006

MANKATO—Jon Hartwig was sure he’d be fetching coffee and pushing papers when he arrived in Los Angeles a couple of weeks ago to begin his internship with the Filmmakers Alliance.

But after meeting with the president of the organization, the Bethany Lutheran College senior realized he was actually going to learn a few things during his stint in Hollywood.

“He said, ‘I’ve got some stuff for you to edit,’” said 21-year-old Hartwig, who was more than surprised.

Edit? As in hands-on filmmaking experience?

Yes and yes, said Jacques Thelemaque, the president and co-founder of the Alliance dedicated to supporting independent filmmaking. The company works as a go-between among various indie filmmakers.

“It’s almost like a match-making service,” Hartwig said.

Some filmmakers might not have access to good editors or cinematographers. The Alliance sets them up with who or what they need.

And Hartwig and his partner, former Bethany student Christopher Poetter, have found themselves playing important roles in the process, including doing editing work on a featurette of behindthe-scenes footage for the DVD release of Thelemaque’s film “The Dogwalker.”

The film is being shown at various film festivals.

“I’m kind of the go to guy,” Hartwig said.

Other filmmakers approached Hartwig and Poetter at a social mixer following a meeting and asked if they could do work on their films. So the pair have work lined up through the first part of August, including on-set production work for

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Photo courtesy of Jon Hartwig

Christopher Poetter (left) and Jon Hartwig.

David Kim’s upcoming dramatic comedy short about the lives of two women.

They may do lighting and prop work, but they won’t know until they start.

Regardless, the job will give Hartwig, an aspiring filmmaker, the opportunity to learn a great deal about the industry.

Here’s something he learned right away: “Back in Minnesota, if you walk up to somebody and they ask, ‘What do you do?’ and you say film, they say, ‘Oh, wow, really,’” he said. “Here they say, ‘Oh, yeah, me too.’ The world’s a bigger place than I thought it was.”

Hartwig also learned living in L.A. is terribly expensive.

As for practical and applicable

knowledge, Hartwig did learn that most filmmakers are using Final Cut software to edit their films, so he’ll be learning it, too.

“And I’ve definitely learned to stick my nose out, kind of make a scene almost — let the people know you’re available,” he said.

The networking aspect has been a huge boon. He’s meeting L.A. people his age, who will be in the industry when Hartwig graduates from Bethany in spring 2007 and possibly moves to L.A., although he might attend graduate school first. He’s also formed relationships with various filmmakers.

Hollywood continued on page 9

report | summer 2006

community

Students review books for publisher

By Lance Schwartz Director of Marketing and Public Relations

I

magine being an aspiring elementary school teacher given the opportunity to contribute on the ground level to a collection of new nonfiction books to be used in elementary schools. Then add into the equation the fact that you’ll receive a small stipend for your input and after reviewing up to eighteen books, they’re yours to keep. That’s the scenario twelve students in Professor Polly Browne’s Children’s Literature course were offered during the spring semester of 2006.

Kendra (Bryant) Christensen, a 2005 communication graduate of BLC, is a member of Mankato-based Capstone Press’ editorial team and she saw a valuable opportunity to include future teachers as part of the public evaluation of this new set of books being produced. The Capstone Editorial Awards were created to give the company’s editors tangible recognition for quality work. Kay Olson, Capstone’s Senior Editor says of the process, “Capstone’s book production process puts many demands on the way any individual title is created. Books must meet specific reading level and curriculum requirements. They must be marketable to libraries in general and school libraries in particular. A few of our books are reviewed by ‘We are happy that outside sources each season, Bethany will again but otherwise editors get very little specific feedback from be teaming with us sources.” on our new season of outside Seeing an opportunity for awards.’ outside advice, Capstone - Kay Olson created the Editorial Contest, Senior Editor, Capstone where editors are encouraged to choose the best of the books they have edited for a season to be reviewed by others. Because the selection process begins with the editor, these individuals scrutinized their own work and chose their personal best. Capstone then chooses outside judges to look at the books, “because we want to look at the work separate from marketing concerns,” said Olson.

Bryant pitched the idea of asking Bethany Lutheran College education students to help review the books to Olson and all agreed that the project was worth pursuing. All tolled, twelve Bethany education students reviewed 216 books for Capstone.

A few of the students had the opportunity to read the books to classes during their clinical experiences in Mankato-area schools.

Olson was pleased with the results of the first-time collaboration, “I was very pleased with the judging Bethany students did

education that lasts beyond a lifetime

Photo by David Norris

Student book reviewers included (back row from left) Rachel Gregor, Regina Langhorst, Martin Boucek, (front row from left) Katie Wiechmann, Amber Schreiner, Matthew Anderson, and Juliane Olson.

for our Capstone Press Editorial Awards Contest. We had a wide range of winners, which was especially gratifying to the editors who work on the very emergent-reading level books. In the past, books for upper level elementary students more or less swept the awards. But this past season awards also recognized deserving books for first graders. We are happy that Bethany will again be teaming with us on our new season of awards.”

Professor Browne called the opportunity, “Extremely valuable for the students because in doing these critiques, the education students were able to take ownership in a ground floor venture and were able to critically evaluate various types of non fiction books.” Senior education major, Amber Schreiner agreed, “I was really excited to be a part of this project. In fact, I think I had them all critiqued in a matter of just a few days. It was a great learning experience in addition to being a lot of fun.”

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athletics

Spring sports

By Adam Holtz | Assistant Sports Information Director

Baseball The Bethany baseball team made the best of many opportunities in 2006.

While a 17-24 record might appear to be contradictory to that, the Vikings definitely made their presence felt this year.

After a slow start to the season, Bethany took two of three games from Central College, a team that ended up winning a share of its conference championship.

“That weekend was key for our confidence,” said second-year head coach Ryan Kragh. “I think it helped propel us into our conference schedule.”

Indeed, the Vikings ended the Upper Midwest Athletic Conference (UMAC) season in third place, going 12-9 against conference foes, and finishing third in the season-ending conference tournament.

A major highlight of the year was the program’s first senior class. Six players – Josh Anderson, Andy Dollerschell, Luke Hagen, K.C. Johnson, Jake Krier, and Jon Mielke – all were part of Viking history this season.

After the season, individual awards abounded for Bethany players. Anderson, Dollerschell, and junior Brady Grohs were named to both the UMAC all-conference and National Christian College Athletic Association (NCCAA) all-regional first teams. Johnson was also named to the all-UMAC first team, and Krier joined sophomore Tyler Carlson on the honorable mention all-conference team. Brad Hillesheim and Ben Rubenking were named to the academic all-UMAC team.

Kragh knows that experience is going to be key in pursuing championships in future years. So recruiting will be key to establishing that experience. “We are really excited about the solid recruiting class that’s coming in this fall,” he said. “I really think that the student-athletes we are bringing in all believe in our program and in the mission of the college. Things are definitely headed in the right direction.”

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report | summer 2006

Men’s Tennis Sometimes, progress and positive results are not always visible to everyone.

That could certainly be said of the Bethany men’s tennis team in 2006. While a 1-9 record might not signal a successful season, head coach Adie Harstad knows otherwise.

“We were very competitive with every team in the conference but one this year,” Harstad said. Indeed, the Vikings took points against three of the four UMAC opponents this spring.

The season’s high point was undoubtedly on April 9, when the team garnered the program’s first ever National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) victory—a 5-4 decision over MinnesotaMorris.

Another high point for the team was at the season-ending conference tournament, when junior Brandon Londgren captured the UMAC Championship at #6 singles. Sophomore Ryan Latterman was also honored by the UMAC with an academic all-conference selection.

Harstad is excited that there are a number of points to build on from this year. “There was a lot of participation, especially from eager freshmen looking to contribute. Our team confidence is growing, and we are beginning to realize that we don’t have to back down from competition, we can be a competitive team.”

Women’s Tennis Just like with the men’s team, Bethany’s women’s tennis team experienced some successes as well in the 2006 season, despite a 1-9 season record.

The ladies also collected the program’s first-ever NCAA victory this year, with a 6-3 triumph over Minnesota Morris on April 21. Harstad agreed that the women were just as competitive in the UMAC as the men – perhaps more so.

Freshman Heather Goossen led the team with five singles victories, while education that lasts beyond a lifetime

sophomores Rachel Mellon and Ashley Schmidt paired up for doubles victory five times. Mellon was named to the UMAC’s all-conference and academic all-conference teams as well.

Harstad knows that next year can be a breakthrough season for women’s tennis at Bethany. “We had some talented freshmen come in this year, and we’ll have more of the same next year. Pair that talent with our experience and leadership of the upperclassmen, and this season’s momentum should definitely carry over to next spring.”

Softball A number of bright spots in 2006 signaled that the softball team is coming together as an NCAA program. While a 6-24 record might not seem too exciting, there were a number of highlights during the season.

Head coach Tina Hopp recalled some of the highlights of the season. “We were competitive with most of the teams in our league, and beat some solid programs in the UMAC and other conferences.”

Often times, the experience of other teams proved to be the deciding factor in many games. With just three seniors – the first seniors in program history – Bethany often found itself on the short end. But the schedule was highlighted by wins over Minnesota-Morris, Crown, Martin Luther, North Central, and Bethel during the season.

Outstanding individual efforts also made the season memorable. Senior captain Jill Yost was honored by the UMAC with selections to the academic all-conference team and the honorable mention all-UMAC team. Junior Christina Madson was named first team all-UMAC, and juniors Katie Wiechmann and Renee Tatge were also named academic all-conference.

Hopp knows that the program has potential to be a contender. “With more leadership and strong play from returning upperclassmen and more incoming talent next fall, the program should take another step forward in 2007.”

Hollywood continued from page 6

“If you want to be in this business, you’ve got to be in L.A.,” he said. “Things aren’t available in the Midwest.”

Hartwig was supposed to be finished with his internship Aug. 5, but he’s staying at least part way through August to be part of VisionFest, an annual film festival presented by the Directors Guild of America, among other events.

Afterward, he’ll return to Bethany where he’ll continue film work mostly for school and pursue his degree in communications with an emphasis in film and television. So far he’s done half a dozen short films for assignments, contests and festivals, and he’s written about a dozen scripts.

One of Hartwig’s short films, “Fall From Grace,” won the Best of Festival award in the small college category in April at the national Broadcast Education Association convention, said Chris Johnson, studio director at Bethany.

The organization has more than 1,400 individual and institutional members dedicated to teaching and researching electronic media and multimedia.

The seven-minute film is about relationships, focusing on a couple who has a fight and gets back together.

Johnson, Hartwig’s internship coordinator, helped Hartwig get the job in L.A. Another student from Bethany worked with the Filmmakers Alliance a couple of years ago, and the connection helped make Hartwig’s name stand out.

When Hartwig does venture back to L.A. with a degree and high hopes of fame and fortune, he wants to make movies he calls the “surreal realism” genre—movies that take real issues or life events and put a child-like wonderment spin on them. Examples are “Donnie Darko” and “American Beauty.”

“If I’m not (in L.A.) next summer, I’ll be disappointed,” he said.

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2006

Athletic Hall of Fame Inductees O

n August 23, Bethany Lutheran College announced the 2006 inductees into its Athletic Hall of Fame. The class of six includes four athletes, one coach and one administrator who were inducted at banquet on Saturday, September 23, during Bethany’s annual Fall Festival.

Heidenreich

Meyer

Rohrrman

Sorenson

Westphal

Woods 10

Bob Heidenreich was a member of two nationally ranked Bethany basketball teams from 1960-62 — both of which participated in the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) national tournament. After a four-year stint with the Army where he also played and coached at different levels, Heidenreich finished out his collegiate career at the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire in 1967. Over a 19-year high school head coaching career in Wisconsin at Colfax (three years) and Hudson (16 years), Heidenreich compiled a 386-106 record. In 1998, Heidenreich was inducted to the Hudson High School Hall of Fame, and on September 30 of this year, he will be inducted into the Wisconsin Basketball Hall of Fame.

Heidenreich now lives in Mankato, Minn.

Dr. Marvin Meyer was a valuable member of the Bethany community from 1960-2002. Meyer was Bethany’s Athletic Director from 1967-77, and its Dean of Students from 1976-82. He then served as Bethany’s President from 1982-2002 before retiring. As president, Meyer was instrumental in the purchase of the Bethany Athletic Field (1985) and the construction of the Sports and Fitness Center (1994). A long-time supporter of Bethany athletics, Meyer was inducted into the Minnesota Community College Conference (MCCC) Hall of Fame in 1999.

Meyer now lives near Brainerd, Minn.

Jeff Rohrman was a two-time NJCAA AllAmerica men’s soccer player from 1982-84, earning team MVP honors as a sophomore. After Bethany, Rohrman attended the University of WisconsinMilwaukee, where he was an all-state player, captain, and team MVP his senior year. He also played on a Minnesota men’s amateur team that won the 1990 national tournament. After his playing days were over, Rohrman came back to Bethany as its head men’s coach in 1990 and 1991. He then was an assistant coach at the University of Maryland from 19962002, when the Terrapins won the ACC

championship in 1996 and went to the NCAA Final Four in 1998. Rohrman has been the head men’s soccer coach at the University of Wisconsin-Madison since 2002.

Kris (Van Eps) Sorenson earned All-Southern Division, All-MCCC, All-Region XIII and NJCAA All-America honors while playing volleyball at Bethany from 1988-89. She was also Bethany’s team MVP in 1989. At the time she completed her Bethany career, Sorenson was the NJCAA national leader for career kills (1,011) and service aces (165). She led Bethany to its first-ever NJCAA national volleyball tournament in 1989. Sorenson now lives in Caledonia, Minn., where she works for Business Objectives.

Art Westphal has served Bethany for over 20 years as an admissions counselor, head baseball and men’s basketball coach, and athletic director. Westphal began his coaching career at Bethany in 1984 when he resurrected the college’s baseball program. He soon turned it into a perennial power in the NJCAA — winning the 1990, ’91 and ’92 Region XIII Coach of the Year awards. In 14 years as head coach, his baseball teams went 307-157, winning eight Southern Division, two MCCC state, and three regional titles.

Westphal became Bethany’s men’s basketball coach in 1986, compiling a 262-169 record. Over 17 seasons, Westphal led his teams to six Southern Division championships and 12 MCCC tournaments, winning the title in 1997. He was honored as the 1992 MCCC Coach of the Year. Westphal took over the athletic director duties in the fall of 1994. While he was the athletic director, Bethany athletic teams won 26 Southern Division, 18 MCCC and 16 Region XIII titles. Westphal lives in Mankato, where he is the Director of Advancement for Bethany.

Mark Woods played for the Bethany men’s basketball team from 1977-79, being voted team captain his sophomore year. As a freshman, Woods was the MVP of the Anoka-Ramsey and Blue Waters Classic basketball tournaments. The following year, he was named to the All-Region XIII team and honorable mention NJCAA All-America. Woods is now a college professor of humanities at Essex County College in Newark, N.J., and Kean University in Union, N.J. report | summer 2006

alumna profile: Laura Harstad, Class of ’00

Harstad volunteers in Nicaragua

By Lance Schwartz Director of Marketing and Public Relations

R

ecently, I had the opportunity to talk with Bethany alumna, Laura Harstad. If the Harstad name sounds familiar to you, you shouldn’t be surprised. The Harstad family has been connected to the College since its earliest days and Laura’s father, Mark Harstad, is a professor of History and Religion at BLC. Laura, herself, might also be known as the first Bethany billboard face. You see, when the College first began to advertise in southern Minnesota, Laura’s face was on a BLC billboard located on U.S. Highway 169 near Le Sueur, Minnesota.

Since her days on the Bethany campus, Laura has earned two degrees and is now a physician’s assistant in Baytown, Texas.

What years did you attend Bethany?

1998-2000 Where did you attend school after earning your A.A. from Bethany?

I earned a nursing degree from Marquette University in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, (proud contemporary of Dwayne Wade). (Editor’s note: Dwayne Wade is a member of the National Basketball Association’s Miami Heat. He was the 2006 NBA Finals MVP.) I also earned my medical degree from Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, Texas.

When did you decide to pursue a career as a physician’s assistant?

I decided during the fourth year of my undergraduate program, which resulted in having to take a fifth year to complete prerequisite coursework. My nursing education helped solidify my interest and desire to pursue a career in medicine.

How do you feel Bethany prepared you for the rigors of nursing and medical school?

Bethany offered a challenging transition from high school, and I believe it was there that I developed strong study habits and a desire to learn which proved to be

education that lasts beyond a lifetime

Photo courtesy of Laura Harstad

Laura Harstad traveled with a volunteer medical team to help those they could in Nicaragua.

invaluable as I was presented with new challenges academically. With hard work, courses I had feared the greatest became the ones I enjoyed the most, providing further opportunities.

Tell us about your position in Baytown, Texas.

I have a position in a Walk-In/Urgent Care setting within a medium sized multi-specialty group. I work closely with five family practice physicians. I diagnose and treat a wide array of problems including various infections, asthma, injuries, and many other medical problems across all ages.

You’ll be visiting Nicaragua as a medical volunteer soon. How did this opportunity present itself and what did you experience as a volunteer in a third world country?

I am currently attending a church that has strong ties to a remarkable Lutheran missionary in Nicaragua, Pastor Sandor Arguello, and every year church members volunteer to work on building projects, teach bible classes, and provide medical care. Our medical team will consist of

two physicians and myself. I have not yet left at the time of this writing, but can already anticipate the frustration of short term medical care; sadly we will not be able heal those with chronic problems that require long term management.

But unlike my job here, I will be able to encourage these people in their faith, placing these earthly needs in perspective.

If you could wish for one or two things for BLC in the coming years, what would it be?

Naturally, I am thrilled about the new science building, anatomy lab, and the development of the basic sciences. I hope to see Bethany graduates become strong applicants for medical and graduate programs. There will always be a need for Christian health care providers and scientists, especially with the ethical dilemmas surrounding the promise of cures for presently incurable diseases.

Bethany Lutheran College congratulates Laura Harstad on her academic and professional successes and for her commitment to providing health care with a Christian emphasis.

11

travel

Experiencing Photos by Tami Tillman

During the two-week trip to China, Angie Nissen experienced the culture first-hand.

By Angie Nissen, Ed.D Communication

O

n May 13, 2006, twenty-four members of the Bethany community departed for a two-week trip that would alter their perspective of an intercultural exchange. Over fourteen days, the group was able to visit Beijing, Xian, Guilin, Yangshou, Suzhou, Zhouzhuang, and Shanghai, China. While the group had the opportunity to visit famous sites including the Great Wall, the terracotta warriors, Tiananmen Square, and the Li River, the travelers also had the opportunity to engage with the Chinese people; visiting local villages, local markets, and eating authentic Chinese food.

The group had many opportunities to learn about Chinese history, economics, and the culture as they toured the country.

According to the official pedometer the group walked eighty plus miles, biked fifteen, and flew some 10,000 miles.

This was Prof. Angie Nissen’s third trip to China. China’s rapid transformation makes each trip a new experience.

As the upcoming host of the 2008 Olympics and the 2010

12

report | summer 2006

World Expo, China is on the fast track for change. Nissen said of the trip, “It is exciting to share the experience and introduce my friends in China to my friends from Bethany.” Nissen’s contacts have provided her the opportunity to offer a fantastic trip for a very reasonable price. Nissen adds, “The tour guides are so much more than guides, they are friends. They are committed to answering questions and teaching you about the language, the people, and the customs.”

Nissen explained how one guide shared his experience as an adult living through the cultural revolution. Another shared her experience from a teenager’s experience.

As China continues to transform, it offers many opportunities for the Bethany travelers to interact with people in China, encouraging students to challenge paradigms and stereotypes they may have held about China, and the Chinese. Very few in China speak English, so students had to find creative ways to communicate just to find directions, exchange money, and try and buy goods at the market.

Chris Johnson, Bethany’s studio director, was the star, participating in the Tang Dynasty performance in Beijing and the Acrobatic show in Shanghai. Prof.

Judy Kuster was warmly welcomed by the Chinese communication disorders community, presenting on two occasions, and attending a banquet given in her honor. The group had the opportunity to perform at a rural school, and visit the Children’s Palace and interact with the children in song, dance, and playing basketball. Several members had the opportunity to climb the six waterfalls of Gudong National Park. More formally, students were treated to multiple cultural performances and the delicacy of a Peking Duck dinner.

The overall assessment of those that traveled identified an extremely satisfied experience. People in the group had the following to say about the trip: “I thought Peter, Rebekah, and Christine (a few of our tour guides) offered the best experience in understanding the education that lasts beyond a lifetime

The group from Bethany was able to perform a play derived from the book “The Rainbow Fish” for children at a rural school.

culture and history of China, which I think should be an important goal of the trip.”

“I would recommend the trip to anyone. I was especially grateful for the flexibility you provided me, and support in being able to have probably two of the most professionally satisfying exchanges in my life.”

Students actively engaged in the Chinese market system, toured residential areas experiencing real Chinese hospitality, and experienced the true beauty of the Chinese country while biking through the villages and mountains. They also witnessed how important the family unit is in China.

Yet, there is one thing missing in most everything they experienced—Christ.

Students gained a true appreciation for how much work we have to do to bring the saving grace of Christ to one of the world’s largest countries.

The Bethany students participating on the trip were part of a new course— Topics in Intercultural Communication. As part of the class, students kept a guided journal and their final project required them to “communicate” China through their eyes. The final projects will be on display in the fall and presented at a Bethany Series in Scholarship Seminar on

Chris Johnson not only watched but was invited to participate during a cultural performance in Guilin, China.

the BLC campus.

The next trip to China is planned for May 2007. Nissen hopes to offer the China experience every other year. If you are interested in participating in the 2007 trip, please contact Angie Nissen at anissen@blc.edu. More information will be provided in the future. The estimated cost of the trip, including air, hotel, transportation and most meals will be $2950.

The deadline and $500 deposit will be due in December 2006.

13

alumni

Bethany bond is picture perfect

By Sarah Harstad Coordinator of Annual Giving

J

ohn Schwertfeger always knew that Bethany would leave a lasting impression on him. He spent six years as a Bethany student during the days when BLC was a high school and college and holds those memories close to his heart. He also saw two of his children attend BLC and recently looked to Bethany graduates as he expanded his company, New Generation Studio Inc. It started out as a hobby. A soft-spoken, laid-back, photography and yearbook teacher at Mankato West High School with a love of horses put two and two together and began Equine Photos in 1975. By the end of the 70s, wedding photography was in high demand and Schwertfeger found himself christening his new company—Custom Weddings.

In 1994, eldest son, Mike (’91), joined his dad assisting at weddings. He brought a different approach to his work—a photojournalistic style. Word spread about the unique stylings of the Schwertfegers and the decision was made; John would retire from teaching and build a studio. One year later in 1998, after much hard work and sweat equity, Custom Weddings was a full time enterprise.

In 2000, Mike joined the company full-time and the duo realized it was time for some changes. A new name, New Generation Studio Inc. home of Custom Weddings, reflected the company’s ability to offer more than just wedding photography. Senior and family portraits were a 14

Photo by David Norris/New Generation Studio

New Generation Studio: (back row from left) John Schwertfeger (’62), Mike Schwertfeger (’91), (front row from left) Melissa Vandermause (’05), Jill Schwertfeger (’03), and Mandy Lamprecht (’06).

natural addition to the family of services.

The growing family business needed more help and 2003 brought the addition of daughter, Jill (‘03). She fulfilled a much-needed role during the transition from film to digital format and followed in brother Mike’s footsteps capturing moments at weddings in the photojournalistic style. She also proved instrumental in assembling photo albums and office management.

John realized that while the future was looking bright, the studio could use one more photojournalist as Mike had now moved into full-time traditional photography. He knew a graphic artist would be helpful to truly define New Generation’s

style and give them the edge to stand out from the competition. With immediate family resources depleted, John looked this time to the Bethany family to fill the studio’s need. And so in 2005, Melissa (Missy) Vandermause was hired immediately after graduation from BLC to join the New Generation Studio team.

“The Lord brought her to the studio,” Mike Schwertfeger comments, “There is a great atmosphere created by knowing each others background and being on the same page.” Vandermause adds, “You can talk about so much more and on so many more levels than just Picture continued on page 15 report | summer 2006

advancement

Scholarship honors Borns, Orvicks

By Lance Schwartz Director of Marketing and Public Relations

O

f the many reasons why someone donates funds to begin a scholarship at Bethany—gratitude for something that happened at BLC often comes to mind.

We don’t take this honor lightly at Bethany Lutheran College. Someone entrusting the college with a gift of thousands of dollars is indeed a privilege and every day we thank God for the many individuals who choose to support Bethany with their prayers and financial gifts.

Bethany was recently blessed to receive funding to begin a scholarship that was in part a gift of thankfulness from parents who sent four children to Bethany. Greg and Carol Griffin, of Madison, Wisconsin, have always been pleased that their three daughters (Sherri, ’83; Cindy, ’85; and Elizabeth, ’94) and their son (David, ’88) attended Bethany. The Griffins cite the top-notch education their children received at BLC as motivation to endow a scholarship at Bethany. They also note that many students wishing to attend Bethany are capable of the rigors of a collegiate education but are in need

of financial assistance to pay for the cost of attending BLC. And these reasons are certainly valid and worthy, but they aren’t the primary reason for the establishment of the Griffin Scholarship at BLC. In fact, you need only look to the official name of the scholarship and you’ll learn much about the role that Christian mentors play in the lives of so many.

The Griffin Scholarship (Honoring George and Ruth Orvick and Silas and Mary Born) was a gift of love from the Griffins for the service of the Orvicks and the Borns at Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Madison, Wisconsin, (where the Griffins attend) and as faithful servants to the Evangelical Lutheran Synod. Both the Orvicks and Borns have served the Synod in so many ways for many years. According to Greg Griffin, this scholarship honors the “Christian leadership and their examples of selfless work for the church.”

The Griffins established the scholarship as a way to honor both couples for their work in a way that will continue forever.

Those that are called to serve the Lord as pastors and teachers play an important role in the lives of so many. The fact that

the Orvicks and Borns are honored by this Scholarship Fund comes as no surprise to those who know them. Bethany Lutheran College thanks the Griffins and the Orvicks and Borns for their support and dedicated work for BLC.

and traditional photos used to tell a story, to the Minnesota Professional Photography Association (MPPA). The MPPA is a member of the Professional Photographers Association, the premier trade association for professional photographers across the nation. The Company earned multiple state and regional awards as a result of this submission including the Haga Wedding Award for Outstanding Wedding Presentation and another for Distinguished Photography, Wedding Album Division 2006, along with a Fuji Masterpiece award and Kodak gallery awards.

The graduates employed at New

Generation are quick to credit Bethany’s liberal arts emphasis and excellent faculty for aiding their success. Vandermause commented, “You not only have the skill to draw a box but you know why you would want a box there in the first place; it’s problem-solving” John Schwertfeger now leans back in satisfaction and watches the fruit of his labors grow. It’s easy to see that keeping it “all in the Bethany family” has allowed this company to thrive. Having one goal, similar backgrounds, and being one in faith is at the heart of New Generation Studio’s success.

Photo by David Norris

Clockwise from back left: Mary Born, Silas Born, George Orvick, and Ruth Orvick.

Picture continued from page 14

work.” Everyone seems to agree that “it’s enjoyable coming to work knowing that we are one in faith.”

In 2006, John retired and Mike purchased New Generation Studio, Inc. When he found they were still turning away weddings, he had no problem turning to the Bethany family once again.

Mandy Lamprecht, a 2006 studio arts Bethany graduate joined the team rounding out the all-Bethany employee roster.

It’s obvious that the business has thrived from this grouping. Under Vandermause’s impetus, the group submitted a Fine Arts album, a combination of photojournalist education that lasts beyond a lifetime

15

alumni news

alumni

news 1929 Eda (Swenson) John is retired and has been residing in Arizona since 1978.

1947 Florence (Schedler) Hayakawa’s husband passed away on January 9, 2005.

Since then, Florence recently won silver at the Singles State Bowling Tournament and enjoys traveling to California.

1948 Patricia (Thalacker) Meier has been married to Herb for fifty-six years in July 2006. They have three granddaughters, two of which are twins.

1949 Eileen (Trygstad) Anderson is keeping busy these days with her thirteen grandchildren, four great grandchildren (including twin girls) and baking pies for her daughter’s three restaurants.

1951 Eloise (Redmann) Peterson’s husband, Al, passed away in February 2006. Before his passing, the couple spent much of their retirement traveling and camping with friends. Eloise keeps in touch with her former roommates Phyllis (Huechert) Kaul (’50 and ’52) and Lorene (Meyer) Rector (’52).

Marilyn (Kurzweg) Kostick’s husband, Frank, died on February 23, 2006. She resides in Buffalo, Minnesota.

She is employed as an at-home medical transcriptionist. She also is an organist, choir accompanist, and praise service accompanist at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Buffalo.

1953 Arthur Schulz retired after fifty-three years in the ministry. He and his wife, Olaila (Hanson ’59), celebrated their 16

forty-fifth wedding anniversary in July 2006. Olaila is employed as a home care aide, assisting the elderly and disabled persons. Arthur and Olaila reside in Black River Falls, Wisconsin.

1958 Melvin Fadness (’58) retired from Lockheed Martin as a staff engineer after more than twenty-two years. He continues to visit his grandchildren in Tampico, Mexico, and loves to support them! Mel’s wife, Carol, is looking forward to retiring in a couple of years.

Joan (Weisenburger) Molnar has six children and five grandchildren. She recently retired from the health care field.

Ellen (Bobholz) Wolfrath and her husband, Dalton (’57 and ’58), celebrated their forty-fifth wedding anniversary in the summer of 2006. They have resided in Appleton, Wisconsin, for the past forty years. Dalton is employed parttime for the Community Blood Center and Ellen is employed part-time for Eternal Love Lutheran Church. They have three children: Terryl, Lana, Stephen and nine grandchildren ages five through fourteen.

1960 Orville Gierach (’59 and ’60) is retired from the United States Postal Service.

He is an avid cross country skier and is involved with his church as an elder. He and his wife, Anne Marie, are also ethnic performers of Bavarian dance and sing in their church choir.

1966 Dennis Malenke (’66 and ’68) retired from West Bend, Wisconsin, Public Schools after thirty-four years of teaching. He and his wife, Sandra (Narges ’67), have four children: Tasha, Tania, Talia, and Dion. Tasha (’91) is married to Joseph Wall (’91). Tania (’93) is married to Marcus Mumm. Tania and Marcus are expecting a baby boy in June 2006. They also have a two-year-old boy, Eli. Talia (’99) married Chad Bloedel

(’01) in September 2005. Their wedding was a “Bethany Family Reunion.”

Dennis and Sandra’s son, Dion, attends Winnebago Lutheran Academy in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin. He is a drummer in the Lutheran Vanguard traveling band.

Dennis, his three brothers: Bruce (‘71), Mark, Paul, and Dion were treated to an Alaskan wilderness float in the summer of 2005 by the Gary and Gail Lillo (’65 and ’67) family.

David Walther (’66), is pictured with his wife, Kathleen, and their six grandchildren. Front row left to right: Benja-

min Barnack, Samuel Barnack, Nicholas Lofacinski, Caitlyn Lofacinski, Alexander Lofacinski and Daniel Barnack. Benjamin, Samuel and Daniel are sons of Rebecca (Walther ‘95) and Tony Barnack.

1967 Dan Powell retired in May 2002 after twenty-nine years as a social worker and highway transportation department employee for Dane County, Wisconsin. Dan and his wife, Ann, have been married for thirty years. They are proud grandparents of a baby girl, Bryn Elise, born February 16, 2006, to Dan’s son, Brad and daughter-in-law, Kelly.

1969 Lou Ann (Piepenbrink) Oppitz has been married to Mark Oppitz for thirtyfour years. They have resided in Inver Grove Heights, Minnesota, for the past twenty-five years. They have three sons: Christopher (wife, Rachel and child Cascade, 5 years old) residing in Billings, Montana; Ben (’97, fiancé, Heidi) residing in Inver Grove Heights and Josh who also resides in Inver Grove Heights. report | summer 2006

alumni news In August 2006 Lou Ann will begin her seventeenth year at the Inver Hills Community College Learning Center.

Mark owns and operates a painting and wall papering business. He also plays the organ, directs the choir, and supervises the Sunday school program at Grace Lutheran Church in South St. Paul, Minnesota

1991 MaryKate Perry and her husband, Don Chartock, announce the birth of a

In memoriam 1942

1970 Lynn (Schurke) and Nile (’68, ’70, ’77) Merseth recently moved to a small acreage near Somerset, Wisconsin.

“No sirens, no trucks, no freeways, no airplanes—and the seven grandchildren love to visit.”

1985 Mary (Vanstrom) McCullough and her husband, Rick’s, daughter, Lauren, represented Minnesota as one of only four artistic gymnasts at the first Special Olympics National Games this summer in Ames, Iowa.

1990 James Bjornlund and his wife, Keri, hosted a birthday party for James’ parents,

baby girl, Margot Rose Perry Chartock, on April 10, 2006. MaryKate also has a three-and-one-half-year-old girl, Phoebe Frances.

1992 Becky (Marquardt) Palmer married Pat Palmer on April 5, 2006, in Mason City, Iowa. Becky is employed by IC System in the client services department and Pat is a store manager with Midwest Wireless and has a home-based computer repair business. Becky and Pat reside in Hampton, Iowa, with three “spoiled” cats. Becky would love to hear from her BLC friends. You can contact her at looneybin90@yahoo.com

1994 Jeremy Holmen is starting a new job in anesthesia in Watertown, South Dakota. He and his wife, Heather, have two daughters: Bryn (2) and Olivia (9 mos).

Robert and Nancy (Bogeskov) Bjornlund (’66) in Coon Rapids, Minnesota, on May 13, 2006. Bethany alumni attending this “special event” were: Front row left to right: Norman Teigen (’60 and ’62), Judy (Tostenson) Teigen (’66), and John Branstad (’68). Middle row left to right: Laurel Severson (’67), Nancy (Bogeskov) Bjornlund (’66) and Wendy (Bogeskov) Branstad (’70).

Back row left to right: James Bjornlund (’90) and Robert Bjornlund (’66).

education that lasts beyond a lifetime

the birth of a baby girl, Sophia Marie Boettcher, born January 20, 2006. They reside in Chanhassen, Minnesota.

1995 Laura (Frederick) Albers announces the birth of a baby girl, Katherine Alice, born April 11, 2006.

1998 Kristy (Robinson) Langworthy and her husband, Patrick, announce the birth of a baby boy, Elijah Andrew Langworthy, on May 25, 2006, in Mankato, Minnesota.

1999 Daniel Boettcher married Sara Palmerscheim in June 2005. They announce

Paul Lowell Munson passed away June 15, 2006, at Oakwood Village in Madison, Wisconsin. Paul was born April 4, 1922, to Thomas W. and Anna (Robinson) Munson. He attended Bethany for one year in 1942 before transferring to the University of Iowa where he earned his B.A. degree. He then entered the United States Navy.

In 1944, while on leave, he married Geraldine Anderson. After three years of service, Paul was discharged from the Navy and earned an M.B.A. from the University of Michigan. After twenty years of being employed in sales, he began working for Research Institute of America, retiring in 1987.

Paul was a member of the Rotary Club in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, and the Lion’s Club in Glendale, Wisconsin. He was a lifelong member of the American Legion and held various offices in the churches he attended during his lifetime.

1948 Lawrence E. Lillegard passed away July 9, 2006, at Lakeland Regional Medical Center in Lakeland, Florida. Lawrence was born May 4, 1929, in Boston, Massachusetts, to George Oliver and Agnes Bernice (Onstad) Lillegard. He graduated from Bethany Lutheran College in 1948.

He later graduated from Northwestern College in Watertown, Wisconsin, with a B.A. degree. After serving three years in the United States Army, he continued his theological studies at Oberursel, Germany. In 1958, Lawrence returned to the United States and earned his bachelor of Divinity degree at Wisconsin Lutheran 17

alumni news Seminary in Thiensville, Wisconsin. He married Velma Gerenscer on July 30, 1960. He was employed as a pastor for twelve years, serving congregations in Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Missouri before returning to Benton Harbor, Michigan, to become an insurance agent for the past thirty years.

Lawrence was a past president of St. Matthew’s Lutheran Church, served on the board of elders and the board of education. He loved singing in the church choir, playing board games with his children and grandchildren, and enjoyed crossword puzzles and golfing.

1949 Wilhelm Juuhl Nelson passed away March 22, 2006, at Life Care Center of Attleboro, Massachusetts. Wilhelm was born on March 17, 1929, to Wilhem J. and Betty (Haugland) Nelson. He graduated from Bethany Lutheran College in 1949 and later graduated from Northeastern University. Wilhelm served in the United States Army from November 27, 1955, until his honorable discharge on November 5, 1957. He married Carol (Nygren) Nelson on May 23, 1964. Wilhem was employed at Northeastern University in Boston for thirty-four years prior to his retirement in 1991 as the assistant athletic director.

Wilhelm was a member of the Evangelical Covenant Church in Attleboro, where he served as a Sunday school teacher. He enjoyed traveling, reading, studying and enrolling in various curriculums with his daughter, Britt.

1980 Jane Susan (Wicks) Cameron passed away in May 2006 at the age of forty-five.

Jane and her husband, Kevin (’79) resided in Deephaven, Minnesota. She was a strong and faithful servant of the Lord her entire life, 18

especially throughout her illness and journey with cancer.

College Friend Walter Schneider died Wednesday, July 26, 2006. He married Emma Frankson at Spring Valley on July 10, 1934. In 1939 he purchased the Albert Lea hatchery from Jack Boote and changed the name to Schneider’s Hatchery. Through the years, he was open for business from 9:30 to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday until he sold the hatchery to Subway Restaurant. Even though he closed his business at the end of July 2005, he continued repairing sewing machines and vacuum cleaners in a small shop on the

back porch of his home. The last repair job was picked up by a customer the day after his death.

He was an active member of Our Savior’s Lutheran Church in Albert Lea, serving as deacon for many years. He also served as president, was a member of the building committee, a choir member and on other committees. He also served on Bethany Lutheran College Board of Regents.

Walter is survived by three children: Carolyn Harstad (’56) (Peter, ’53, ’55) of Lakeville, Joan Harstad (’62) of Spanaway, Wash., and David Schneider News continued on page 19

Former BLC choir director dies

A

t the time of his passing in April, 2006, Dr. Alfred Fremder hadn’t directed the Bethany Lutheran College Choir in nearly fifty years, yet his impact on the tradition and history of the storied Choir is known to all of those singers who sang under his direction, as well as to those who were choir members after him.

Fremder’s influence on the traditions of the Bethany Choir can be heard nearly every time it performs. You see, it was Fremder’s idea to use the hymn “On My Heart Imprint Thine Image” as the closing prayer for all performances of the Bethany Choir. In fact, it is Fremder’s arrangement that has been used by the Choir since 1945. By every account, Fremder was respected and beloved by all those who sang in the Bethany Choir under his tutelage. Blessed be his memory.

Dr. Alfred L. Fremder, professor emeritus at Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, died April 19, 2006 at the age of 86. A funeral service was held April 25 at Tree of Life Lutheran Church in Garland, Texas. Fremder was the choir director and professor at Bethany Lutheran College from 1945 to 1956. Fremder served as professor emeritus at Concordia Seminary from 1991 to 2006. Prior to that, he was associate professor of practical theology from 1979 to 1991, and coordinator of musical and cultural activities from 1979 to 1990.

He graduated from Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, in 1942; received a master’s degree from the University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, in 1955; and received a Ph.D. from North Texas State University, Denton, in 1970. A son, David, survives him. His wife, Ernestine, and son, Steven, preceded him in death.

report | summer 2006

alumni news News continued from page 18

(’66) (Sue) of San Jose, Calif.; 16 grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; and son-in-law Ken Lederer.

He was preceded in death by his first wife, Emma (1904-1976), his daughter Kathryn Lederer (1944-1988), his second wife, Tena (1910-1996), his parents, sisters, Bertha Schumacher, Esther Nehls, Ruth Fluegel, Alice Riggle, Edna Davidson; brothers George, Arnold, Alvin and Lothar.

We want to hear from you alumni

news

We need your personal and professional updates to include in our alumni news.

You may also submit alumni news by emailing it to alumni@blc.edu. Post your news online by visiting our Web site at www.blc.edu and click on the My Account link.

Name___________________________________________________________________________ Class year__________________ Address____________________________________________________________________________________________________ City____________________________________________ State___________________________ Zip ________________________ Phone ( _________ ) ____________________________ Email______________________________________________________ Spouse’s name __________________________________________________________________ Class year _________________

(first name/maiden or birth/current last name)

news (attach additional information and photos as necessary) ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Ringen crowned

B

education that lasts beyond a lifetime

Parents’ names_____________________________________________________________________________________________ Name___________________________________________________________________________ Class year__________________

(first name/maiden or birth/current last name) Spouse’s name __________________________________________________________________ Class year _________________

(first name/maiden or birth/current last name) [ ] Daughter’s name [ ] Son’s name____________________________________________________________________________

First Middle Last Date of Birth____________________________________ Place of Birth_______________________________________________

marriage announcement Name___________________________________________________________________________ Class year__________________

(first name/maiden or birth/current last name)

#

ecky Ringen, a 2004 bachelor’s graduate of BLC was crowned Miss Minnesota International 2006 on March 12, 2006, in St. Cloud, Minnesota. Ringen competed with other county/city title holders from across the state of Minnesota.

These women are recognized for their achievements as individuals.

Ringen’s platform was “Domestic Violence: Raise a family, not a fist.” She plans to use her title to raise awareness of domestic violence and promote healthy relationships, while encouraging those in battered relationships to realize a brighter, violence free life.

birth/adoption announcement

Spouse’s name __________________________________________________________________ Class year _________________

(first name/maiden or birth/current last name) Date of Marriage ________________________________ Current Residence __________________________________________

Cut out (or photocopy) and send to: Alumni News, Bethany Lutheran College, 700 Luther Drive, Mankato, MN 56001

19

address service requested

Non Profit Organization U.S. Postage PAID Minneapolis, MN PERMIT No. 4656

700 Luther Drive Mankato, Minnesota 56001-6163 education that lasts beyond a lifetime

Calendar of Events October 2 Peter Ostroushko in Concert Trinity Chapel, 7 p.m.

5 Organ Recital by Andrew Dewar Trinity Chapel, 7 p.m.

6 Men’s/Women’s Soccer vs. Crown, 5/7 p.m.

6 Volleyball vs. UM-Morris, SFC, 7 p.m.

7 Volleyball vs. Presentation Aberdeen, S.Dak., 1 p.m.

7 Men’s/Women’s Soccer vs. Northwestern, Noon/2 p.m.

10 PLUM #2 Debate Tourn., Home, 2 p.m.

10 Volleyball @ Martin Luther New Ulm, Minn., 7 p.m.

11 Women’s/Men’s Soccer vs. Waldorf, 5/7 p.m.

12 Art Lecture and Reception, Eric Ouren YFAC, 7 p.m.

13 Men’s/Women’s Soccer vs. Northland 5/7 p.m.

13 Volleyball vs. St. Scholastica, SFC, 7 p.m.

14 Volleyball vs. Northland, SFC, 1 p.m.

14 Men’s/Women’s Soccer vs. St. Scholastica, Noon/2 p.m.

17 Men’s/ Women’s Soccer vs. Martin Luther, 5/7 p.m.

19 Fall Open House, 9 a.m.

20 Men’s/ Women’s Soccer @ UM-Morris Morris, Minn., 1/3 p.m.

20 Volleyball @ Northwestern Roseville, Minn., 7 p.m.

21 Volleyball @ Crown St. Bonifacius, Minn., 1 p.m.

21 Women’s/Men’s Soccer @ Presentation Aberdeen, S.Dak., 2/7 p.m.

25 Reformation Prelude - Guest Lecturer Dr. David Fienen, Trinity Chapel, 7 p.m.

25 Volleyball vs. Martin Luther, SFC, 7 p.m.

27 Vocal Viking Speech Tourn., Home, 2 p.m.

27 Volleyball @ UM-Morris Morris, Minn., 7 p.m.

28 Vocal Viking Speech Tourn., Home, 8 a.m.

For more calendar events, visit: www.blc.edu

Visiting Opportunities Bethany Lutheran College is offering a number of opportunities for prospective students to visit the campus this year. Open House events will include a multi-media presentation and a tour of the campus with a current Bethany student.

Open Houses October 19, 2006 November 11, 2006 December 9, 2006

February 7, 2007 April 28, 2007

There will also be a Getaway Weekend on the Bethany campus. High school juniors and seniors will be able to experience college life in the residence halls, visit classes and attend activities. Buses will pick up students throughout Wisconsin and students from all locations are invited to attend.

Getaway Weekend October 26-29, 2006 For more information on any of these events call the admissions office at 800-944-3066 or visit the Web site at www.blc.edu/admissions.

Bethany Quick Facts Location: Bethany is located in Mankato, Minnesota, an area of approximately 52,000 residents (eighty miles southwest of Minneapolis/St. Paul).

Campus: Overlooking the beautiful Minnesota River Valley, the campus occupies fifty acres with thirteen buildings and two athletic fields.

Enrollment: While Bethany is continually growing, the average full-time enrollment is 515 students, with approximately thirty additional part-time students.

Bachelor of Arts degree: Sixteen majors and seventeen minors are offered.

For more information, please visit www.blc.edu.

Key: SFC – Sports and Fitness Center; YFAC – Ylvisaker Fine Arts Center. Dates and times are subject to possible changes.

Please call in advance to confirm dates and times of events before traveling: 800.944.3066 or 507.344.7000.

Printed on recycled paper