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The Path to Your Purpose
BETHANY COLLEGE ANNOUNCES CLASSES OFFERED IN VIRTUAL FORMAT ONLY FOR SPRING SEMESTER
March 25, 2020
LINDSBORG, KS., On March 25, Dr. Mauch, Interim President of Bethany College announced that all classes for the Spring 2020 semester, to start March 30, will be held in a virtual format due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Previously, the college hoped for a hybrid approach with the return of some students, in accordance with health guidelines, and virtual attendance for others. The college monitored the ever-changing health guidelines, while simultaneously adapting plans to address the situation. After consultation with health officials, including the county health director, it was determined virtual classes would be the most prudent way to alleviate the potential for concerns such as overburdened health facilities, or the spread of COVID-19. As such, students were notified that they would not be permitted to return to campus for face-to-face classes and were given further instruction on the processes and conditions in place for obtaining personal belongings from campus. Bethany will offer student services— such as library resources lists specific to academic departments, career services, pastoral support, tutoring and counseling services—in a virtual format. The college acknowledges the question as to whether refunds will be given and is working on various considerations with plans to announce a decision in the near future.
Many college employees are transitioning to work remotely, yet some continue to work on campus as necessitated by campus needs but do so in accordance with local health guidelines. Many non-administrative campus buildings are locked and the college strongly encourages all college business to be conducted by phone or email. If absolutely necessary, entry into administrative buildings will be conditioned on compliance with local health guidelines, provisions of which are posted on the main entrance for each building. Bethany has not decided on commencement ceremonies, but all other campus or college-sponsored events have been postponed or canceled. For up to date information visit www.bethanylb.edu
Retention and enrollment will be crucial considerations following this unprecedented interruption in higher education. Bethany appreciates any and all support from surrounding communities, partners and alumni. As a campus community, Bethany will continue to unite around her core values – especially this year’s theme of integrity, as they seek knowledge, strive for understanding, aspire for excellence in all that they do, and remain faithful to Bethany’s calling to inspired learning and informed faith.
LINDSBORG, KS. MAR. 25, 2025 — Bethany 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 Bethany College. Each year, Bethany 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, Bethany 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 Bethany College Alumni Association, I want to extend my enthusiastic gratitude to every Bethany Backer who contributed to the 2025 “Swedes Around The World” campaign,” said Olivia Peterson, President of the Bethany 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. Bethany 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. Bethany 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 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.
"We are excited to welcome Coach Cockrum to the Swedes Family," said Dean of Athletics, Laura Moreno. "His experiences from being an assistant at a variety of levels, from NCAA Division 2 to NAIA to high school, have prepared him to take this opportunity head-on. "
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 .