Alumni Spotlight - Cameron Herrick, '03

December 9, 2021

Cameron Herrick graduated in 2003 with a degree in Mathematics. 


When asked why he chose Bethany, Cameron replies, “the deciding factors for me were, the available academic programs, the opportunity to participate in sports, and all the social groups.”


Cameron was especially motivated by his physics professor Dr. Brian Adrian who Cameron says, “had the ability to find ways to convey complex subjects so everyone in his classes could understand. He was invested in what students planned career path was and would tailor the instruction to include examples of what one might encounter in their future profession.” 


Cameron adds, “the Bethany math and science department prepared me well for the critical thinking and problem solving I use in my daily job environment. The instruction I received has served me well as it established the solid foundation for my postgraduate education and gave me tools to navigate my profession.” 


Cameron was a member of Pi Sigma Chi fraternity, lettered in Track and Field, and helped Bethany win the KCAC football championship in 2000. 

“I learned that great things come in small packages. The intimate family-like setting at Bethany and the education offered are unparalleled.” Cameron adds, “Don't take your time in Lindsborg for granted. Take in all the experiences and absorb the culture.” 


Shortly after graduating from Bethany, Cameron attended Wichita State University and received his MS in Aerospace Engineering. “While attending evening classes I was hired as a grad assistant at NIAR (National Institute for Aviation Research) as part of the Aging Aircraft Laboratory. There we were given contracts by local industry to dismantle old aircraft and inspect for damage that would help the fleet adjust their routine inspections to maintain flight safety. This working relationship within the aviation industry allowed me to get employment after graduation with Cessna Aircraft (now Textron Aviation). From there I've worked my way around the company to support various engineering functions (production line support, fleet sustainment, advanced design, new product development, and field repair)” says Cameron.


Cameron currently works for Textron Aviation as their Sr. Specialist - Metal Fatigue. Cameron states,  “As a member of the advanced design group for Cessna Aircraft, I designed, analyzed, and certified a new generation of business jet cabin windows that have been implemented on the latest jet models the company offers. These new cabin windows reduce installation time, cost, and serviceability in the field.” 


As a  final bit of advice, Cameron encourages students to, “seek out and take advantage of co-op and intern programs within the industry you are interested in. The advantages of getting a foothold in your field before graduation is priceless.”

Fun fact, Cameron is a thrill-seeker. He’s been a certified scuba diver since the age of 12. He has bungee jumped and would like to try skydiving. He is also working toward his private pilot’s license.


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.
Bethany College Hosts Over 500 Young Men for
January 30, 2025
Bethany College hosted over 500 young men from nearly 40 schools across Kansas on Jan. 30 for the annual Real Men Sing vocal workshop. This celebrated event provides an inspiring opportunity for students in grades 4-12 to explore choral music in a supportive, all-male setting, fostering confidence, camaraderie, and a love for singing.
January 24, 2025
This semester, the department continues its tradition of offering a wide variety of performances, from student and faculty recitals to large-scale ensemble concerts. These events provide opportunities for the Lindsborg community and surrounding areas to experience the vibrant cultural and artistic contributions of the college.
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