Two hundred students earn academic honors, demonstrating the strength of Bethany’s liberal arts tradition and culture of achievement
LINDSBORG, Kan. May 21, 2026 — Bethany College today announces its Spring 2026 President’s List and Dean’s List, recognizing 174 students for outstanding academic achievement. The President’s List honors 48 students who earned a 4.0 grade point average during the semester, reflecting exceptional academic excellence. The Dean’s List recognizes 126 students who achieved a 3.5 grade point average or higher, demonstrating strong commitment, discipline, and success in their academic pursuits.
“Our President and Dean’s List students exemplify the very best of Bethany College and the transformative power of a liberal arts education,” said Dr. Laura Crawley, President of Bethany College. “Their achievements reflect not only remarkable dedication and perseverance, but also the strength of a learning community grounded in exceptional faculty mentorship and a deep commitment to intellectual and personal growth. At Bethany College, academic excellence is measured not solely by achievement in the classroom, but by the preparation of graduates to lead with wisdom, integrity, and compassion in service to their professions, their communities, and the world around them,” shared Crawley.
The students on the Spring 2026 President’s List and Dean’s List reflect the many backgrounds and experiences shaping the Bethany College community. Forty-nine percent of Bethany students recognized this spring for academic achievement are Kansans; five percent are international students from countries such as Sweden, Jamaica, and Costa Rica; and 37 percent come from small towns across Kansas, the Great Plains, and beyond.
Bethany College asks students to bring real grit to their work. They read carefully, think critically, and keep showing up for themselves and for one another. Grounded in the Lutheran tradition of higher education, Bethany connects intellectual curiosity with learning in community, where students are challenged and supported.
“Our President’s List and Dean’s List students have shown remarkable focus and persistence,” said Dr. Tash Smith, Academic Dean. “Their accomplishments reflect not only academic talent, but also the habits that matter in life and leadership: curiosity, responsibility, follow-through, and care for others. Those are the strengths of a liberal arts education, and they are exactly the qualities our communities need from the next generation of graduates.”
Students named to the Spring 2026 President’s List and Dean’s List come from a wide range of academic programs and backgrounds, united by their pursuit of academic excellence and their contributions to the Bethany community. Bethany College congratulates all honorees on this significant accomplishment and looks forward to their continued success.
For a full list of students honored for their academic achievements this spring, please visit bethanylb.edu/presidentdeanslist.
About Bethany College
Bethany College (bethanylb.edu) is a higher educational institution located in Lindsborg, Kansas. Bethany College was established by Swedish Lutheran immigrants in 1881. For more than 140 years, Bethany College has been dedicated to educating, developing, and challenging individuals to pursue truth and excellence while leading lives of faith, learning, and service. At Bethany College, 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.
CONTACT:
Christie Denniston, APR
Vice President of Strategic Engagement
303-827-5164
Bethany College
335 East Swensson Street
Lindsborg, KS 67456






