Grant Provides Critical Resources to Enhance the Student Experience and Institutional Growth
LINDSBORG, Kan. July 31, 2026 - Bethany College is pleased to announce it has received a $65,000 grant from the Julia J. Mingenback Foundation to support critical renovations to Presser Hall, one of the College's most iconic academic and performance facilities and the heart of its renowned music program.
The renovations come at a time of remarkable growth for Bethany's music department. Choir enrollment under the direction of Dr. Troy Robertson has more than doubled in the past year, with projections indicating continued growth in both ensemble participation and voice majors over the next three years.
The grant will help to fund essential improvements to the building's third-floor choral rehearsal space, including roof replacement, drywall and paint restoration, and mold remediation caused by water intrusion. These upgrades will ensure a safe, inspiring learning environment while preserving a space that serves both Bethany students and the broader central Kansas community.
“On behalf of Bethany College, I extend our deepest gratitude to the Julia J. Mingenback Foundation for its generous investment in the future of music education and the arts," said Dr. Laura Crawley, President of Bethany College. “This grant allows us to preserve a treasured campus landmark while strengthening opportunities for students, faculty, and community members who gather in Presser Hall to learn, perform, and celebrate the transformative power of music.”
Presser Hall serves as the centerpiece of Bethany College's distinguished music tradition and hosts academic instruction, rehearsals, festivals, concerts, and community events throughout the year. The facility welcomes thousands of visitors annually and plays a vital role in supporting the College's expanding choral and vocal music programs.
Beyond serving Bethany students, Presser Hall is home to programs that enrich the town of Lindsborg and communities throughout Kansas. The internationally recognized Messiah Festival of the Arts, which is performed in Presser Hall, recently celebrated its 146th consecutive performance of Handel's Messiah, the longest continuous performance in North America. The College also hosts Real Men Sing, an annual event that welcomes more than 500 young men from 40 to 50 Kansas schools to campus for a day of music-making, mentorship, and performance.
”These initiatives reflect Bethany College's longstanding commitment to expanding access to music and the arts while strengthening Lindsborg's reputation as a vibrant cultural destination,” President Crawley said. “The relationship between Bethany College and Lindsborg nurtures an incomparably rich artistic culture that benefits students, faculty, staff, and the region as a whole. Thanks to the support of the Julia J. Mingenback Foundation, Bethany College can continue to support the musical arts for all.”
Construction is expected to begin this summer, with renovations completed in time to support the upcoming academic year and future community programming.
“The Julia J. Mingenback Foundation has been an invaluable partner in advancing educational opportunities throughout our region," said Crawley. “Their continued generosity ensures that future generations of students and community members will continue to learn, create, and be inspired within the walls of Presser Hall.”
For more information about Bethany College’s fine arts programs, visit www.bethanylb.edu.
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






