Rob & Celeste Habiger Support Higher Education in Kansas with a Gift to the Bethany College ‘Path to Your Purpose’ Initiative

July 18, 2022

Rob and Celeste (Bohman) Habiger, ‘69 are no strangers to supporting higher education in Kansas. Their commitment to championing the value of education is well-known both at Bethany College, where Rob and Celeste became “Swedehearts” and graduated with bachelor’s degrees in 1969. Rob went on to receive his master’s and doctorate degrees in physics at Kansas State University. They have traveled the world during their careers and contributed both time and treasure to humanitarian and educational efforts across the globe. The Habiger’s, now residents of Littleton, CO, have never forgotten their beloved Bethany community and the liberal arts education they received at Bethany. 



The Habigers have given back to their alma mater in numerous ways over the years. Celeste serves as a class agent for the Class of 1969, and Rob serves on the Bethany College Board of Directors. In 2017 – 2018 academic year, Rob held the position of Visiting Professor of Physics and Celeste volunteered in the Alumni Office. Together they received the 2018 Bethany College Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of their service in and beyond the Bethany community. During the Fall of 2021, the Habiger’s $28,000 gift to Bethany College’s Path to Your Purpose initiative enabled current Bethany students to deepen their educational experience through paid internships as part of a pilot program for Bethany College’s new Pathways Internship initiative. This most recent gift is a further extension of their legacy of supporting innovative educational programs across the state of Kansas. 


Chad Moore, Director of Path to Your Purpose at Bethany College explains, “I’ve had the privilege of talking with Rob and Celeste over the past year. It’s been continuously evident that they are curious, compassionate people committed to demonstrating their Christian faith through acts of love, service, and continual learning. Rob and Celeste believe in the life-changing power of a challenging and fearless liberal arts education, and they know that student learning is greatly enhanced through hands-on work experiences outside the classroom. Their support of the Path to Your Purpose program this spring enabled us to pilot a new internship model at Bethany, the Pathways Internship Program, which is already paying dividends in the lives of our students. I’m deeply grateful for Rob and Celeste’s support of this initiative.” 

The Pathways Internship program is a new experiential education model at Bethany College that combines opportunities for vocational reflection in a classroom setting with paid internship opportunities created in partnership with local businesses and non-profit organizations. During their Pathways Internships, students contribute to the missions of the organizations with which they are working while simultaneously discerning their own sense of purpose through a vocational research project conducted in collaboration with their internship supervisor and the Director of Path to Your Purpose. 


Bethany College junior, Kylie Jacobs of Freemont, California was part of the inaugural class of Pathways Interns. Jacobs worked in the immigration services office of Catholic Charities of Northern Kansas alongside her Pathways Guide and internship supervisor, Yessenia Baquera, Catholic Charities’ Immigration & Hispanic Services Specialist. With Baquera’s guidance, Jacobs gained first-hand experience with the legal intricacies and complex systems that immigrants to the U.S. must navigate in order to receive residency and citizenship. Jacobs reported that this experience helped her gain perspective on the difficulty of immigrating to the United States. Jacobs was inspired by the compassion, courage, and hope that characterized the clients with whom she interacted. “Not only was I able to learn about immigration law from this experience,” Jacobs reported, “but I was also able to learn how nonprofits work and how their services help those in communities such as Salina. Being able to sit in on appointments where people shared their immigration stories and seeing how grateful they are to stay in this country, really puts into perspective the importance of understanding immigration law.” Jacobs is currently studying for the LSAT and plans to attend law school after graduating from Bethany. 


The Habigers’ support was crucial in providing the finances necessary to create this paid internship opportunity via the Pathways Internship initiative. "Bethany’s program of helping students discover and develop their path to a life and career of purpose resonates strongly with us, especially the emphasis on service to others,” Rob & Celeste explained. “We believe God calls all of us to serve others using the talents and skills we are given. As alumni and supporters, we are proud of Bethany for helping students discern and nurture that calling of service to their communities." 


Additional contributions for helping students discern, discover, and navigate the path to their purpose would help solidify and expand this program. This type of project-based learning is unique to a liberal arts education and has always been a hallmark of the Bethany College experience. These monies ensure the future of experiential education opportunities for our students. To give, please contact the Office of Advancement and Alumni Engagement at alumni@bethanylb.edu or 785-227-3380 ext. 8270. You may also send a check to: Bethany College 335 E. Swensson St. Lindsborg, KS 67401. 


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 Honors Faculty and Staff for Service and Achievement

May 9, 2025
LINDSBORG, KS. MAY 9, 2025 — Bethany College held an employee recognition dinner on May 6 to celebrate the end of the academic year. Faculty and staff celebrating service anniversaries included Denise Carson, Director of the Wallerstedt Library (40 years); Frank Ballew, Director of Publications (25 years); Andrea Ring, Chair of the Department of Psychology and Associate Professor of Psychology (15 years); Marcus Hensel, Assistant Professor of English (10 years); and Kelley Menke, Thomas DeWitt, Adam Long, Dala Roberts, Brian Powers, and Jenni Snider (5 years). These dedicated individuals exemplify the lasting commitment that helps define the Bethany experience. We’re proud to celebrate their continued service and the strength they bring to our campus community. The Donna Meredith Humphreys Award for Teaching was presented to Dr. Rob Habiger , Class of 1969, in recognition of his exceptional mentorship and dedication to his students. The award, established by Don and Alice Humphreys of Great Bend, Kansas, honors the memory of their daughter, Meredy, who earned a bachelor’s degree in chemistry from Bethany in 1991. It is given annually to a faculty member who demonstrates outstanding teaching ability, inspires intellectual curiosity in both students and colleagues, and takes a genuine interest in students’ personal growth. The recipient must also encourage leadership and the development of strong character. Dr. Habiger, who recently moved back to Colorado with his wife Celeste, played a significant role in leading the Presidential Search Committee and teaching physics during his time in Lindsborg. Over the past year, Rob and Celeste became deeply involved in the Bethany College community, attending nearly every event, founding a scholarship, hosting gatherings, mentoring students, and generously volunteering their time throughout the town. In addition to the Meredy Humphreys Award, Rob and Celeste were honored with the special TTT (Time, Talent, Treasure) Award for their exceptional contributions to the campus. Bethany College is deeply grateful for their dedication and service. Dr. Marcus Hensel , Associate Professor of English, was named the recipient of the Mortvedt Teaching Excellence and Campus Leadership Award . Established in honor of former Bethany President Robert Mortvedt, the award recognizes individuals who demonstrate outstanding teaching, distinctive leadership, and a commitment to strengthening the college’s academic and campus life. Dr. Hensel was selected for his engaging classroom approach, commitment to student success, and meaningful contributions to the academic life of the college. Crystal Houp , Admissions Operations Manager, received the Ken Sjogren Annual Staff Service Award , which recognizes a full-time staff member who exemplifies hospitality, servant leadership, collaboration, and steadfast support for the mission of Bethany College. Crystal has served Bethany College for nearly two decades, consistently demonstrating dedication, professionalism, and care in her work. Her impact on the campus community, particularly within the Admissions Office, has been both broad and lasting. Colleagues and nominators described her as dependable, detail-oriented, and a true steward of hospitality. “Over the many years that Crystal has been at Bethany, she has served hundreds of families along with our faculty and staff,” one nomination read. “Her work may go unnoticed to many, but to the team she works with and those she serves, it’s something you can’t miss.” The Ken Sjogren Annual Staff Service Award honors the legacy of Kenneth “Ken” Edward Sjogren ’57, who served Bethany College for 23 years in various leadership roles. The award celebrates the vital role staff play in the life of the college and their partnership in supporting students and faculty. Bethany College is grateful for Crystal’s outstanding contributions and is proud to recognize her with this year’s award. 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.

A Degree 55 Years in the Making

May 6, 2025
LINDSBORG, KS. MAY 6, 2025 — As Bethany College celebrates the accomplishments of the Class of 2025, one graduate's walk across the stage represents an unfinished dream now fulfilled more than five decades later. In 1970, Marilyn Allen Peterson was just one class away from earning her degree in elementary education from Bethany College. But when her husband, Dr. Thomas Peterson (Bethany Class of 1968), was called into military service during the Vietnam War, the couple relocated to Arizona with little notice. In the midst of the move, Marilyn was unable to complete her final requirement: a single science elective. Earlier this year, Dr. Peterson contacted Bethany College to share his wife’s story and asked a simple question: Could she still finish what she started? Thanks to the efforts of faculty and staff who dug into old catalogs, found the transcripts stored on microfilm, and brainstormed creative solutions for completing that final requirement, we are proud to say: yes, she could—and she did. With her final credit completed, Marilyn became eligible to receive her degree. At age 76, Marilyn Allen Peterson officially joins the Bethany College Class of 2025. During Commencement, she was recognized with heartfelt applause from the entire Bethany community. "Marilyn, on behalf of Bethany College, we celebrate your dedication, your patience, and your enduring Swede spirit," said Dr. Laura Crawley, President of Bethany College. "Let this moment remind us all that it’s never too late to finish what we start, and that some of the most meaningful victories are the ones that take a little longer to reach." Marilyn’s story is not only a tribute to personal perseverance, but also a testament to the lifelong bonds formed at Bethany College and the value of returning to one’s roots to complete the journey. The full Commencement Ceremony is available to view online at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V0Dee6oUH3k Photos from the event can be found at: https://jimturner.zenfolio.com/bethanygraduation2025 Learn more about our Baccalaureate and Commencement speakers here: https://www.bethanylb.edu/bethany-college-baccalaureate-and-commencement-speakers The full graduation press release can also be found on our website at: https://www.bethanylb.edu/congratulations-2025-graduates 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.

Congratulations 2025 Graduates

May 6, 2025
LINDSBORG, KS. MAY 6, 2025 — Bethany College conferred degrees upon 104 students in Presser Hall Auditorium on May 3, 2025. The ceremony recognized students who earned Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Music, and Bachelor of Music Education degrees during the 2024–2025 academic year. Summer, fall, and spring graduates were honored during a Baccalaureate service at 10:30am, followed by the Commencement ceremony at 2:00pm in Presser Hall. Campus Pastor Melissa Woeppel led the Baccalaureate service, with Ellie Dieringer, an advocate for gender justice and intergenerational equity, serving as the featured speaker. Dr. Kelli Krase, a 2004 Bethany alum, delivered the Commencement address. She currently serves as an Associate Professor, Residency Program Director for Obstetrics and Gynecology, and Assistant Dean for Student Affairs at the University of Kansas School of Medicine. The Commencement Ceremony was marked by several special moments, including a welcome address from Dr. Laura Crawley, Bethany College’s 16th President, who officially began her tenure just three days prior. Senior remarks were delivered by Carson Finke and Kort Sjogren, this year’s recipients of the Spencer Bartlett Senior Respect Award. Their speeches reflected on personal growth, the challenges they overcame, and the journey that led them to graduation. Both shared heartfelt stories that moved many in the audience to tears, while offering thoughtful advice and congratulations to their fellow graduates. Adding a powerful artistic moment to the ceremony, graduate Aubrey Larson performed “Defying Gravity” from Wicked by Stephen Schwartz. The event also featured a moving degree conferral for Marilyn Allen Peterson, whose Bethany journey began in 1970 and culminated with her official graduation this year at age 76. Her story of perseverance and dedication has resonated deeply within the Bethany community and beyond. Learn more about Marilyn Peterson's story here: https://www.bethanylb.edu/a-degree-55-years-in-the-making The full Commencement Ceremony is available to view online at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V0Dee6oUH3k Photos from the event can be found at: https://jimturner.zenfolio.com/bethanygraduation2025 Learn more about our Baccalaureate and Commencement speakers here: https://www.bethanylb.edu/bethany-college-baccalaureate-and-commencement-speakers
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