Former Governor John Carlin Speaks to Bethany Education Students

March 27, 2025

LINDSBORG, KS. MAR. 27, 2025 — Students in Professor James Baker’s Elementary Social Studies Methods class had a unique opportunity to hear from distinguished guest speakers, the Honorable John Carlin and Bethany College alumnus Ryon Carey '95, during a recent session focused on history, government, and education.


The event brought together students from both Professor Baker’s course and Dr. Rana Razek’s class for an engaging discussion on the branches of government, the role of the U.S. Department of Education, and the importance of civic understanding in the classroom.


Governor Carlin, who also served as the Archivist of the United States following his tenure as Kansas Governor, offered students a personal perspective on his career in public service and shared insights into the responsibilities of preserving key national documents such as the U.S. Constitution and the Bill of Rights. His reflections underscored the value of historical records in shaping democracy and educating future generations.


Ryon Carey, a 1995 Bethany graduate, also contributed to the discussion, offering his perspective on leadership and public service. “It was a privilege to welcome Governor Carlin and Ryon Carey to speak with our students,” said Professor James Baker. “Opportunities like this deepen our students’ understanding of the material and remind us all of the importance of connecting real-world experience to classroom learning. I’m incredibly grateful to both of our speakers for sharing their time and insights.”


You can learn more about our Education Department at bethanylb.edu/education.


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.



Banner depicting Dean Coughenour with the words Dean Coughenour Trust Scholarship
August 25, 2025
Bethany College today announced the establishment of the Dean Coughenour Endowed Scholarship in Business. The scholarship will be awarded annually to returning Bethany College business majors to support their continued studies and internship opportunities.
Banner depicting faculty with students in a classroom, with a quote from a Bethany alum
August 20, 2025
Bethany College (bethanylb.edu) is proud to highlight the pivotal role its faculty play in sustaining and developing local education programs. Through direct involvement in teacher preparation and community partnerships, Bethany College faculty are shaping the future of education in Kansas.

Banner depicting Patricia Smith’s headshot with her title of Sideline Cheer Coach
July 25, 2025
Bethany College is proud to announce the return of sideline cheer, launching with the 2025–26 academic year. Leading the program is newly appointed head coach Patricia Smith, an experienced educator and cheer coach. Sideline cheer will return to Bethany’s home football and basketball games.
More News