OFFICE OF ADMISSIONS
J.E. and L.E. Mabee Welcome Center
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785.227.3380 x 8113
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The Path to Your Purpose
BETHANY COLLEGE ANNOUNCES UPDATES IN RESPONSE TO COVID-19 PRECAUTIONS
March 20, 2020
LINDSBORG, KANSAS, MARCH 20, 2020: Bethany College officials announced an extended Spring Break, starting at the end of classes, March 13, 2020. Classes are scheduled to resume March 30. Previously, the College intended to make a formal announcement March 25 but because this situation has changed so fast, is doing so at this time. Please understand, the fluid changes in the local and state health guidelines, make timely communication difficult. The college website will be used to provide the most current information, so please visit www.bethanylb.edu/coronavirus/ for updates.
Although spring break started one week early, Bethany College students have had the opportunity to stay in residence halls through the two-week break. Campus administrative offices and residence halls remain open and most services, such as counseling, tutoring, student life, and health are available for the duration of the spring semester. Library services and classrooms are slightly modified for the time being. In regard to academics, students who don’t wish to return, will be able to continue their spring semester learning through a virtual classroom option as of March 30, or as soon thereafter as possible.
Any student, faculty or staff member who has traveled will be subject to all local and state health guidelines in effect upon their return. Individual arrangements will be necessary for self-quarantine as Bethany College is not in a position to assist with such requirement. Dr. Van Dusen, Dean of Student Development, communicated by email to all students the preliminary details about gathering personal property from campus, safety precautions for returning to campus, and more, but because the procedures are subject to health guidelines they are likely to change.
Fortunately, class sizes at Bethany rarely exceed 25, and while all students will have the option for virtual attendance, some students may have the opportunity (subject to health guidance such as social distancing etc.) to resume face to face classes.
While administrative offices are open at this time, please refrain from coming to campus unless a physical visit is absolutely necessary. Most, if not all, business can be conducted by phone or email. To locate phone extensions or emails visit https://www.bethanylb.edu/directory/.
Currently, the College is prohibiting the use of the student union “Pit” area (Pihlblad lower level), and other common areas, even if the building is open. Hahn and Stroble Gibson gyms, and the cardio and weight rooms are closed.
At this time, there are no cases of COVID-19 on Bethany College campus or in McPherson County. In understanding our role and responsibility, campus leadership has learned that if a test for COVID-19 was to be completed, the state agency, Kansas Department of Health and Environment communicates with the McPherson County Health Department and it is the procedure of health officials that dictates the release of information and/or results as deemed appropriate. It is imperative that Bethany College cooperates with all health officials and remains mindful of HIPAA and other protocol to ensure the privacy and safety of campus and the larger community.
Campus leadership acknowledges that several questions remain unanswered and will work diligently to find answers despite the fluidity of the situation. In this unprecedented time, decisions must be made in accordance to health guidelines, and in deference to the health and safety of all and we appreciate your support and understanding.
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 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.
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.