2022 Alumni Award Winners Announced

September 22, 2022

Bethany College will be honoring eight exceptional Alum at the All-Alumni Awards Brunch at 10:00 am on Saturday, October 22nd, during Homecoming weekend at the J.O. Sundstrom Building at 102 N. Main Street in downtown Lindsborg.  Reserve your tickets today!

Gold Award

Gold Award is presented to graduates of the last two decades who have made outstanding contributions to society, and whose achievements to date demonstrate a person who shows promise, has high aspirations and has made a difference in the lives of people around them. The first presentation was made in 1992.

Kylie (Schrader) Lofdahl ‘04

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Tyler and Molly (Rishel) Johnson ’05 and ‘06

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Kylie (Schrader) Lofdahl ‘04

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Tyler and Molly (Rishel) Johnson ’05 and ‘06

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Gold Award

The Gold Awards go to Kylie (Schrader) Lofdahl '04, Tyler '05, and Molly (Rishel) Johnson '06. This award represents graduates of the last two decades who have made outstanding contributions to society and whose achievements demonstrate a person who shows promise, has high aspirations, and has made a difference in the lives of people around them.  


Kylie Lofhahl has just begun her 19th year in education, teaching 3rd grade for 13 years and her 6th year in 4th grade at the Smoky Valley School District. Besides helping her husband, Terry, with their family farm, she also volunteers her time with the Smoky View 4-H Club and the Lindsborg Swedish Folk Dancers. Since graduation, she has supported Bethany in numerous ways. She currently serves as the Class Agent for 2004 and is integral in coordinating the host family program for the Women's Basketball Team.   

After graduation, Molly Johnson worked in the Bethany College Athletics office for two years, then served as Director of Alumni Relations for several years. In 2017, Molly was part of the Ad Hoc Business Group, the Lindsborg CVB Board of directors, the Hyllningsfest Committee, and the City of Lindsborg Planning and Zoning Board. She and Tyler Johnson served on the Broadway RFD boards and helped start the children's camp. Tyler also served on the Lindsborg Art Council and the community safety board. Molly and Tyler purchased The Good Merchant in downtown Lindsborg, sang in the Messiah Chorus for ten years, and volunteered their time as directors and organizers of the 4th of July program for 15 years. 

Merit Award

Alumni Award of Merit to graduates of more than 20 years who have exemplified distinguished service in their professional lives while maintaining an interest in Bethany College. Recipients are nominated by former classmates or friends and selections are made by a vote of the Alumni Council. The first presentation was made in 1952.

Lisa (Mooney) Simmelink ‘02

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Mark Carlson ‘73

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Lisa (Mooney) Simmelink ‘02

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Mark Carlson ‘73

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Merit Award

The Alumni Award of Merit goes to Lisa (Mooney) Simmelink '02 and Mark Carlson '73. This award represents graduates of more than 20 years who have exemplified distinguished service as professionals while maintaining an interest in Bethany College.   


Lisa Simmelink teaches music at McPherson Elementary, is in her second year as a seminarian at Luther Seminary in St. Paul, MN, and is serving as a part-time intern at Messiah Lutheran Church in Lindsborg. Simmelink, and her "Swedeheart" Brandon Simmelink ‘01, continue to support Bethany College through their gifts of time, talents, and service.  

Mark Carlson was the director of the Lutheran Office of Public Policy – California (LOPP-CA). He was responsible for interpreting ELCA social policy with church members, the public, and government bodies from 1985 until 2019. LOPP-CA became a primary source of trusted information on California's many ballot measures, including anti-hunger, social justice, and civil and human rights. LOPP-CA also created legislation protecting LGBTQ+ students, California's landmark climate change, and human right to water laws. In retirement, Carlson is active in Lutherans Restoring Creation, the Sierra Pacific Synod Hunger Team, the Brady Campaign, and California Interfaith Power & Light steering committee. He participates at St. John's Lutheran Church in Sacramento in its Care for Creation, Racial Justice, and Action on Homelessness teams. Carlson had a parallel seasonal career for 29 years as a firefighter with the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection.    

Distinguished Graduate

Floyd Thompkins, 1984 Bethany College Graduate

The Bethany College Distinguished Graduate Award goes to Floyd Thompkins '84. This graduate award represents outstanding achievement and service to society. As CEO of the Justice and Peace Foundation, Thompkins is conducting a research project among African American Churches in the areas of grief, trauma, and ministry. This project also covers initiatives in African American spirituality and mental health, advances the dialogue surrounding the reform and reimagining of policing in the US, and has initiated the Talk Truth Project. As Dean of Religious Life, Rev. Thompkins has served at two world-class institutions, Stanford University and Princeton University. He serves as the Pastor of St. Andrew Presbyterian Church in Marin City, California, and is a significant participant in the national conversation concerning race and social justice in the Presbyterian Church. He also serves on the task force to develop the Spiritual Guidelines of the American Psychological Society.  

Lifetime Achievement Award

The Bethany College Lifetime Achievement Award was established in order to recognize outstanding achievement and service to society by a graduate who has provided “unique and significant service” to the college over his/her lifetime, the Alumni Council of this institution may bestow the Alumni Lifetime Achievement Award annually to one recipient. Recipients are nominated by former classmates or friends and selections are made by the Alumni Council. 

Clair and Jerrine (Palmquist) Oleen

The Bethany College Lifetime Achievement Award goes to Clair '77 and Jerrine (Palmquist) Oleen '78. This award represents outstanding achievement and service to society by a graduate who has provided "unique and significant service" to the college over their lifetime. Jerrine was a runner-up for the Governor "My Favorite Teacher" award and has received the Bethany College Athletic Association Award of Merit. Her 3rd graders were pen pals with the Bethany College Men's Basketball team for over 20 years, and she served as a second mom to many of the players. She cooked meals after every home game serving more than 5000 meals over the years.  


After a short stint teaching and coaching in Clay Center, Kansas, Clair coached 38 total seasons of men's and women's basketball at Bethany College and has the longest coaching tenure in Bethany's history. He has 10 NAIA and District 10 Playoff appearances and spent 42 years employed at Bethany serving in the Advancement Office after he retired from coaching. Clair and Jerrine are highly involved in their community and serve the Falun Lutheran Church in many capacities.  

New 2+2 Criminal Justice Agreement Between Bethany College and HutchCC

March 6, 2025
LINDSBORG, KS. MAR. 6, 2025 — Bethany College has announced the expansion of its partnership with Hutchinson Community College (HutchCC) through a new 2+2 articulation agreement in Criminal Justice. This agreement provides students with a seamless pathway to earn an Associate of Arts in Criminal Justice Administration from HutchCC and transfer to Bethany College to complete a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice. This structured, cost-effective program equips students with the necessary skills and academic foundation for law enforcement, corrections, public safety, and legal studies careers. Bethany College Interim President Steve Eckman emphasized the importance of this partnership for students and their families. "Bethany College is committed to providing students with clear and accessible pathways to a meaningful career. This agreement with Hutchinson Community College is another example of how we are working to make a high-quality education affordable and achievable for students and their families. Criminal Justice is a field that offers stability, purpose, and opportunity, and we are proud to partner with HutchCC to help students take the next step toward a successful and service-oriented career." In December, the institutions announced a similar 2+2 pathway in Digital Arts, allowing students to complete the first two years of their education at HutchCC and earn an Associate of Arts in Animation. Students can then transfer to Bethany College for the remaining two years to pursue a Bachelor of Arts in 3D Computer Animation. The growing collaboration between Bethany College and HutchCC reinforces both institutions' commitment to providing students with accessible, affordable, and career-focused education. Bethany College Registrar Mark Bandré, who played a key role in finalizing this agreement, highlighted its impact, "Having this agreement in place provides Professor Rande Repp, Professor Laura Hultquist, and all involved in recruitment with another valuable tool to assist students in achieving their academic and professional goals. This collaboration ensures that students can transition smoothly between institutions, maximizing their education while minimizing costs." Both institutions will provide academic advising, guidance, and student support services to help students navigate their coursework and career aspirations. Bethany College and HutchCC will also promote this agreement to prospective students, parents, and educators. With a long-standing tradition of excellence in education, Bethany College continues to position itself as a leader in preparing students for meaningful careers. The college's Criminal Justice program focuses on hands-on learning, ethical leadership, and real-world applications, preparing graduates for diverse roles in the justice system. Bethany College is a liberal arts institution located in Lindsborg, Kansas, and was established by Swedish Lutheran immigrants in 1881. For over 140 years, Bethany has been dedicated to educating, developing, and challenging individuals to pursue truth and excellence while leading lives of faith, learning, and service. At Bethany, students join a community of dedicated educators and caring mentors who support them as they discover, explore, and navigate their purpose. Bethany College is affiliated with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. Learn more at www.bethanylb.edu .

Bethany College Names Dr. Laura Crawley as 16th President

February 27, 2025
Lindsborg, KS. – The Bethany College Board of Trustees is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Laura Crawley as the 16th president of Bethany College. Dr. Crawley, a distinguished leader in higher education, brings a wealth of experience in academic leadership, student engagement, and institutional growth. Dr. Crawley joins Bethany College with an impressive career spanning more than two decades in higher education. Most recently, she served as Vice President of Mission, Engagement, and Innovation at Lenoir-Rhyne University in Hickory, North Carolina, where she spearheaded initiatives that strengthened student success, expanded community partnerships, and enhanced institutional mission alignment. Her leadership was instrumental in increasing student retention, securing significant endowment gifts, and developing innovative programs to support both traditional and non-traditional students. Prior to her role at Lenoir-Rhyne, Dr. Crawley held key leadership positions at the University of Georgia, including Assistant Vice President for Academic Affairs and Director of the Gwinnett Campus. She played a pivotal role in expanding graduate education, fostering economic development partnerships, and implementing strategic initiatives that positioned the university for sustained growth. Additionally, her tenure as Director of the Executive MBA Program at Georgia State University saw a marked rise in national rankings and program expansion. "I am truly excited and honored to join the Bethany College community," said Dr. Crawley. "The college's strong values of faith, service, and academic excellence deeply resonate with my commitment to supporting students and fostering growth. I look forward to collaborating with faculty, staff, students, and alumni as we build on Bethany’s proud history and look toward a bright future. I am also thrilled to become a part of the Lindsborg community, which has so much to offer in terms of culture and spirit." Dr. Crawley holds a Ph.D. and M.A. in Women’s Studies from Emory University and a B.A. with Honors in American Studies from The University of Texas at Austin. A dedicated advocate for higher education and community engagement, she has served on numerous boards, facilitated leadership development programs, and contributed extensively to academic and professional conferences. Bethany College, a distinguished liberal arts institution with a proud Lutheran heritage, has been shaping the lives of students since its founding in 1881. With Dr. Crawley at the helm, the college is poised to embark on an exciting new chapter, reinforcing its mission to educate, develop, and challenge individuals to reach for truth and excellence as they lead lives of faith, learning, and service at Bethany. Dr. Crawley will assume her new role on May 1, 2025. A formal inauguration ceremony will be held later in the year, with details forthcoming. For more information about Bethany College's Presidential Search and Dr. Laura Crawley’s appointment, please visit https://www.bethanylb.edu/presidential-search or contact Christina Highsmith, Director of Marketing, at highsmithcj@bethanylb.edu .

Bethany Oratorio Society Announces 2025 Messiah Festival of the Arts Soloists

February 10, 2025
LINDSBORG, KAN., FEB. 5, 2025 — The Bethany Oratorio Society is excited to announce the soloists for the 2025 Messiah Festival of the Arts. Since its founding in 1882, the Oratorio Society has performed Bach’s The Passion According to St. Matthew and Handel’s Messiah every year, and this year’s festival promises another spectacular celebration of these works. Featured soloists for this year’s performances include Claire Herzog, coloratura soprano; Michelle Rice, soprano; Maxwell Ary, tenor; and Ian Schipper, bass-baritone. These talented artists will bring their expertise and passion to the stage in performances of The Passion According to St. Matthew and the Messiah.  Additionally, these soloists will perform a free recital at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, April 10, 2025 , at Messiah Lutheran Church on the campus of Bethany College. They will also perform at the ticketed events: The Passion According to St. Matthew at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, April 11, and Handel’s Messiah at 3 p.m. on Sunday, April 13, in Presser Hall Auditorium. Tickets for these performances can be purchased at messiahfestival.org or by calling Bethany College at (785) 227-3380, ext. 8235, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Claire Herzog, Coloratura Soprano A versatile coloratura soprano from Springfield, Missouri, Claire Herzog is equally passionate about teaching and performing. She has appeared in operatic roles with the Ozarks Lyric Opera and is an active performer with various choral groups. Herzog holds degrees from Missouri State University and is currently on the vocal music faculty at Evangel University. In addition to her vocal expertise, she enjoys composing and collaborating with other musicians, with recent projects including an album of original songs and Heart on the Wall performances with the Missouri Philharmonic Orchestra. Michelle Rice, Soprano Praised for her “tones of pure gold” (Washington Post), Michelle Rice brings a rich timbre and intense performance to the stage. Throughout her career, Rice has performed a wide range of roles, including Brangäne in Tristan und Isolde and Mrs. Grose in The Turn of the Screw. As the Artistic Director of Seven Sisters Productions, she has premiered new works, including the opera The Queen, My Lord, Is Dead. Rice’s performances span opera, concert, and recital, and she has sung with major ensembles across the U.S., including the Berkeley Symphony and Washington Concert Opera. Maxwell Ary, Tenor A versatile performer and educator based in San Francisco, Maxwell Ary is renowned for his wide-ranging voice, which spans genres from classical to jazz, musical theatre, and pop. Ary, who teaches at the Ruth Asawa San Francisco School of the Arts, has performed with prestigious ensembles, including Seraphic Fire and Voces8. He has appeared in operas such as The Rake’s Progress, L’elisir d’amore, and recently performed in the baroque opera La Flora with Ars Minerva. Ary’s 2025 performance schedule includes Lamplighters Musical Theater and Pocket Opera engagements. Ian Schipper, Bass-Baritone A dynamic performer known for his commitment to classical and contemporary music, Ian Schipper has appeared in operas such as Die Zauberflöte and Cosi fan tutte. He has sung in choral groups across the U.S., including the Oregon Bach Festival Chorus and the Los Angeles Master Chorale. Schipper is also passionate about new music and has collaborated with composers through his work with St. Olaf College’s Spiritus Novus. He recently performed the role of Cardinal Rottweiler in the world premiere of The Grand Hotel Tartarus. Join us for these unforgettable performances as these talented soloists join the Bethany Oratorio Society in bringing two of the most cherished works in the choral repertoire to life. For more information, including ticket purchases, please visit messiahfestival.org . Bethany College, established by Swedish Lutheran immigrants in 1881, is a college of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. The mission of Bethany College is to educate, develop, and challenge individuals to reach for truth and excellence as they lead lives of faith, learning, and service. At Bethany, students join a community of dedicated educators and caring mentors who walk alongside them as they discover, explore, and navigate the path to their purpose. Bethany College is online at bethanylb.edu and is located in Lindsborg, Kansas, the fine arts and crafts capital of the state.
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