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´óÏ㽶µ¼º½ College is proud to announce the appointment of Christie Denniston as Vice President of Advancement & Alumni Engagement. Denniston brings more than three decades of experience in marketing, strategic communications, and higher education engagement to her new role at ´óÏ㽶µ¼º½ College.

LINDSBORG, KS. MAY 9, 2025 — ´óÏ㽶µ¼º½ College held an employee recognition dinner on May 6 to celebrate the end of the academic year. Faculty and staff celebrating service anniversaries included Denise Carson, Director of the Wallerstedt Library (40 years); Frank Ballew, Director of Publications (25 years); Andrea Ring, Chair of the Department of Psychology and Associate Professor of Psychology (15 years); Marcus Hensel, Assistant Professor of English (10 years); and Kelley Menke, Thomas DeWitt, Adam Long, Dala Roberts, Brian Powers, and Jenni Snider (5 years). These dedicated individuals exemplify the lasting commitment that helps define the ´óÏ㽶µ¼º½ experience. We’re proud to celebrate their continued service and the strength they bring to our campus community. The Donna Meredith Humphreys Award for Teaching was presented to Dr. Rob Habiger , Class of 1969, in recognition of his exceptional mentorship and dedication to his students. The award, established by Don and Alice Humphreys of Great Bend, Kansas, honors the memory of their daughter, Meredy, who earned a bachelor’s degree in chemistry from ´óÏ㽶µ¼º½ in 1991. It is given annually to a faculty member who demonstrates outstanding teaching ability, inspires intellectual curiosity in both students and colleagues, and takes a genuine interest in students’ personal growth. The recipient must also encourage leadership and the development of strong character. Dr. Habiger, who recently moved back to Colorado with his wife Celeste, played a significant role in leading the Presidential Search Committee and teaching physics during his time in Lindsborg. Over the past year, Rob and Celeste became deeply involved in the ´óÏ㽶µ¼º½ College community, attending nearly every event, founding a scholarship, hosting gatherings, mentoring students, and generously volunteering their time throughout the town. In addition to the Meredy Humphreys Award, Rob and Celeste were honored with the special TTT (Time, Talent, Treasure) Award for their exceptional contributions to the campus. ´óÏ㽶µ¼º½ College is deeply grateful for their dedication and service. Dr. Marcus Hensel , Associate Professor of English, was named the recipient of the Mortvedt Teaching Excellence and Campus Leadership Award . Established in honor of former ´óÏ㽶µ¼º½ President Robert Mortvedt, the award recognizes individuals who demonstrate outstanding teaching, distinctive leadership, and a commitment to strengthening the college’s academic and campus life. Dr. Hensel was selected for his engaging classroom approach, commitment to student success, and meaningful contributions to the academic life of the college. Crystal Houp , Admissions Operations Manager, received the Ken Sjogren Annual Staff Service Award , which recognizes a full-time staff member who exemplifies hospitality, servant leadership, collaboration, and steadfast support for the mission of ´óÏ㽶µ¼º½ College. Crystal has served ´óÏ㽶µ¼º½ College for nearly two decades, consistently demonstrating dedication, professionalism, and care in her work. Her impact on the campus community, particularly within the Admissions Office, has been both broad and lasting. Colleagues and nominators described her as dependable, detail-oriented, and a true steward of hospitality. “Over the many years that Crystal has been at ´óÏ㽶µ¼º½, she has served hundreds of families along with our faculty and staff,” one nomination read. “Her work may go unnoticed to many, but to the team she works with and those she serves, it’s something you can’t miss.” The Ken Sjogren Annual Staff Service Award honors the legacy of Kenneth “Ken” Edward Sjogren ’57, who served ´óÏ㽶µ¼º½ College for 23 years in various leadership roles. The award celebrates the vital role staff play in the life of the college and their partnership in supporting students and faculty. ´óÏ㽶µ¼º½ College is grateful for Crystal’s outstanding contributions and is proud to recognize her with this year’s award. ´óÏ㽶µ¼º½ College is a liberal arts institution located in Lindsborg, Kansas, and was established by Swedish Lutheran immigrants in 1881. For over 140 years, ´óÏ㽶µ¼º½ has been dedicated to educating, developing, and challenging individuals to pursue truth and excellence while leading lives of faith, learning, and service. At ´óÏ㽶µ¼º½, students join a community of dedicated educators and caring mentors who support them as they discover, explore, and navigate their purpose. ´óÏ㽶µ¼º½ College is affiliated with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.

LINDSBORG, KS. APRIL 2, 2025 — ´óÏ㽶µ¼º½ College is pleased to announce its Baccalaureate and Commencement speakers for the 2025 graduation ceremonies. Commencement Speaker: Kelli Krase, MD Dr. Kelli Krase, a 2004 graduate of ´óÏ㽶µ¼º½ College, will deliver the Commencement address at this year’s graduation. A native of Hesston, Kansas, Dr. Krase earned her degree in Biology from ´óÏ㽶µ¼º½ College before attending medical school at the University of Kansas. She completed her residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center. Dr. Krase has since returned to the University of Kansas, where she currently serves as an Associate Professor, Residency Program Director for Obstetrics and Gynecology, and Assistant Dean for Student Affairs at the School of Medicine. In her professional role, Dr. Krase has been a dedicated educator and clinician, shaping the next generation of doctors. Outside of her academic career, she enjoys traveling and spending time outdoors with her spouse and their two children. Baccalaureate Speaker: Ellie Dieringer Ellie Dieringer will serve as the Baccalaureate speaker, bringing with her a passion for social justice, faith-based advocacy, and international service. An advocate for gender justice and intergenerational equity, Dieringer is a graduate of Pacific Lutheran University in Tacoma, Washington, where she earned degrees in Hispanic Studies and Global Studies, specializing in Development & Social Justice and International Affairs. Her journey has led her to travel extensively and engage in meaningful work with vulnerable communities around the world, including in Uruguay, Mexico, and Washington State.  Dieringer also served as a volunteer with the ELCA's Young Adults in Global Mission (YAGM) program in Montevideo, Uruguay, where she collaborated with ecumenical organizations to promote fair treatment and social justice. Her work has also led her to serve as a delegate at the United Nations' Commission on the Status of Women and to participate in the Lutheran World Federation’s Women’s Human Rights Advocacy Training in Geneva, Switzerland. Dieringer’s commitment to lifelong-learning and service will inspire graduates to continue making a positive impact in the world. About ´óÏ㽶µ¼º½ College ´óÏ㽶µ¼º½ College is a liberal arts institution located in Lindsborg, Kansas, and was established by Swedish Lutheran immigrants in 1881. For over 140 years, ´óÏ㽶µ¼º½ has been dedicated to educating, developing, and challenging individuals to pursue truth and excellence while leading lives of faith, learning, and service. At ´óÏ㽶µ¼º½, students join a community of dedicated educators and caring mentors who support them as they discover, explore, and navigate their purpose. ´óÏ㽶µ¼º½ College is affiliated with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.

LINDSBORG, KS. MAR. 28, 2025 — ´óÏ㽶µ¼º½ College raised $168,167.87 during its annual Giving Day campaign this year, with every dollar going directly to student scholarships. The support ensures more students can afford a ´óÏ㽶µ¼º½ education and take part in the life-changing opportunities that come with it. This year, the ´óÏ㽶µ¼º½ Backers campaign ran separately. Combined, both efforts brought in a total of over $240,000, surpassing last year’s collective giving total and underscoring the strong support from the ´óÏ㽶µ¼º½ and Lindsborg community. “Both Giving Day and the ´óÏ㽶µ¼º½ Backers campaign have been an incredible success,” said Hayley Samford, Director of Alumni Development and Engagement. “We are incredibly grateful for the continued generosity of our alumni, friends, and supporters. We’re excited to use these funds to support the students who are here now—and those who will be joining the ´óÏ㽶µ¼º½ family soon.” If you are interested in giving and supporting ´óÏ㽶µ¼º½ College’s mission, please click here . ´óÏ㽶µ¼º½ College is a liberal arts institution located in Lindsborg, Kansas, and was established by Swedish Lutheran immigrants in 1881. For over 140 years, ´óÏ㽶µ¼º½ has been dedicated to educating, developing, and challenging individuals to pursue truth and excellence while leading lives of faith, learning, and service. At ´óÏ㽶µ¼º½, students join a community of dedicated educators and caring mentors who support them as they discover, explore, and navigate their purpose. ´óÏ㽶µ¼º½ College is affiliated with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.

LINDSBORG, KS. MAR. 25, 2025 — ´óÏ㽶µ¼º½ Backers has achieved its most successful fundraising effort to date, raising more than $72,000—more than double any previous year’s total. Thanks to the generosity of over 200 donors, these funds will directly enhance the student experience at ´óÏ㽶µ¼º½ College. Each year, ´óÏ㽶µ¼º½ Backers selects a project based on student suggestions, with donations traditionally starting at $50. A portion of the funds raised also supports student scholarships. Past projects have included creating a mock courtroom for criminal justice students, adding additional seating in campus greenspaces, and purchasing games for common areas. The first project funded by this record-breaking total will be the purchase of new cardio equipment for the college’s fitness center, providing students with upgraded resources to support their health and wellness. Additionally, because of the unprecedented amount raised, ´óÏ㽶µ¼º½ Backers will be able to complete a second project, which will be determined through a vote among this year’s donors. “On behalf of the ´óÏ㽶µ¼º½ College Alumni Association, I want to extend my enthusiastic gratitude to every ´óÏ㽶µ¼º½ Backer who contributed to the 2025 “Swedes Around The World” campaign,” said Olivia Peterson, President of the ´óÏ㽶µ¼º½ College Alumni Association and a 2013 graduate. “This year marked our most ambitious project yet, and our alumni and friends exceeded our goals! Not only will this effort provide upgraded training tools for our student-athletes but, most importantly, it will encourage and motivate all students to move their bodies!” Peterson continued, “I especially want to thank Kelly and Alan Clayton for the generous $10,000 matching grant opportunity and Angie Gaeddert for her wonderful $25,000 gift in honor of her late husband, Dr. Wade Gaeddert. Their generosity inspired others to give and helped us fund the project in full. I am humbled by the collective spirit and commitment of our community. ´óÏ㽶µ¼º½ has shaped us all—and now, we’re ensuring that future generations of Swedes have access to the same transformative experiences. The future is bright, friends! Tusen täck!” The goal is to have both projects ready to launch when students return to campus this fall. ´óÏ㽶µ¼º½ Backers extends its heartfelt gratitude to all who contributed, making this milestone achievement possible. For more information about Alumni projects and how to get involved, visit bethanylb.edu/alumni ´óÏ㽶µ¼º½ College is a liberal arts institution located in Lindsborg, Kansas, and was established by Swedish Lutheran immigrants in 1881. For over 140 years, ´óÏ㽶µ¼º½ has been dedicated to educating, developing, and challenging individuals to pursue truth and excellence while leading lives of faith, learning, and service. At ´óÏ㽶µ¼º½, students join a community of dedicated educators and caring mentors who support them as they discover, explore, and navigate their purpose. ´óÏ㽶µ¼º½ College is affiliated with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.

Dr. Laura Crawley is announced as ´óÏ㽶µ¼º½ College's 16th President.

We are pleased to announce this year's ´óÏ㽶µ¼º½ Backer project, 'running' the month of February. This year, funds raised for ´óÏ㽶µ¼º½ Backers will go to replace the out-of-date and end-of-life cardio equipment in the cardio room adjoining the weight room. The space, frequently requested for a renovation by students, currently does not have enough functional equipment for our sports teams or multiple students at a time. With your help, students will receive commercial grade treadmills, ellipticals, stationary bikes, and misc. equipment.