A P U B L I C A T I O N O F B E T H E L U N I V E R S I T Y , I N D . VOL UME 35 35/1 I SSUE one Spring 2025 1 SPRING 2025 A Job Faithfully Done
2 BETHELUNIVERSITY.EDU/MAGAZINE The Bethel Magazine is published each year for alumni and friends of the university. Please send correspondence and address changes to the editor. BETHEL MAGAZINE 1001 Bethel Circle Mishawaka, IN 46545 Email: Lissa.Diaz@BethelUniversity.edu Phone: 574.807.7384 Website: BethelUniversity.edu/Magazine Founded in 1947 by the Missionary Church, Bethel University is an accredited Christian university offering associate, bachelor’s and master’s degrees in more than 50 areas of study. At Bethel you will find a community of nearly 1,160 learners. Our mission is to challenge the mind, enlarge the vision and equip students for lifeong service. To learn more, visit BethelUniversity.edu. PRESIDENT Barbara K. Bellefeuille, Ed.D. VICE PRESIDENT FOR ACADEMIC SERVICES Abson Joseph, Ph.D. VICE PRESIDENT FOR ENROLLMENT & MARKETING Amanda Slaughter VICE PRESIDENT FOR ADMINISTRATION & FINANCE AND CFO Pamela Campbell, Ph.D. INTERIM VICE PRESIDENT FOR INSTITUTIONAL ADVANCEMENT Rich Cummins, CFRE VICE PRESIDENT FOR SPIRITUAL LIFE & UNIVERSITY AFFAIRS Shawn Holtgren '95, '97, Ph.D. VICE PRESIDENT FOR STUDENT DEVELOPMENT & SUCCESS Julie Beam, Ph.D. EDITOR Lissa (Grashorn) Diaz '07 ASSITANT COPY EDITORS Erin J. Hollister '07 Karis Bagley '23 CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Aaron Charles '15 Lissa (Grashorn) Diaz '07 Melyssa Geever ’23 Luke Schrock GRAPHIC DESIGNER Brianna Haessig PHOTOGRAPHERS Brianna Haessig Adam Raschka Peter Ringenberg '03 Emily (Rogers) Sherwood '99 COVER PHOTO Adam Raschka A PUBLICATION OF BETHEL UNIVERSITY, IND. VOLUME 35, ISSUE 1 A LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT Dear Alumni and Friends, I have been deeply blessed. Finishing a nearly 50-year education career as president of an intentionally Christ-centered university is beyond what I could have imagined. I grew up outside of Detroit in a blue-collar family. My sisters and I were first-generation college students with no governmental aid yet in place. Becoming a middle school teacher was already a dream come true. So, to have been granted God’s grace in moving into the world of higher education and opportunities for leadership is simply a testament of God’s kind mercy. The cherry on top is finishing my career at THE Bethel University. I am grateful for the unwavering support since 2012. Four years ago, I began imagining what my short tenure as president could accomplish for this wonderful institution and God impressed on me the idea of faithfulness. This began the early thinking for the three-year Faithful Campaign. Bethel has in these years multiplied its efforts to ensure everyone knows our purpose as a Christ-centered institution. We have also spent energy and money caring for our people and the places around campus that needed attention. Praise God for the generous gifts that have enabled us to use $4 million to repair, replace and replenish many areas around campus while also reinforcing our solid biblical foundation. Living close to Notre Dame, we often see people touch or refer to the sign “Play Like a Champion Today!” But at Bethel it's different. I walk into my office area to the sign “Faithfulness First, Flourishing Follows!” (Thank you, Miriam Wertz, for making that sign). I don’t touch it, but I do agree and pray daily for God to bring flourishing to Bethel. I will cherish finishing my career as a Bethel Pilot, but knowing Christ remains at the helm is the most rewarding. Barbara K. Bellefeuille, Ed.D. President
ANSWERING A CALL TO SERVE A group of Bethel students give up their fall break to serve in an area of Tennessee devastated by Hurricane Helene. 04 FROM REFUGEE TO CHILD OF GOD New Vice President for Academic Services Abson Joseph, Ph.D., focuses his role around developing people. Alumna Olga Petrosyan ’06 shares about her journey to Bethel and the true story of her family that inspired the feature film “Between Borders.” 09 24 CAMPUS NEWS 07 MISSION MINDED 06 THE ARTS 10 ALUMNI NEWS 20 COVER: Dr. Barb Bellefeuille walks through a celebratory crowd on her way to her first chapel as president in 2022. Read a reflection on her presidency on p. 14. 4 6 24 SPORTS 16 FORMING LIVES OF IMPACT GIVING BACK 13 3 SPRING 2025
4 BETHELUNIVERSITY.EDU/MAGAZINE Last fall, a group from Bethel gave up their fall break (Oct. 9-13) to serve on a disaster relief trip to East Tennessee, in an area devastated by Hurricane Helene. With an overflowing trailer of supplies donated by St. Mark Missionary Church, the team of six (five students and Missionary-in-Residence Jeremy Tice) set off from campus at 3 p.m. and arrived in Tennessee at 3 a.m. Though the trip was put together last-minute in response to prompting by Bethel’s president and cabinet, things worked out providentially. They worked with the Missionary Church network within East Tennessee to identify the need. “The church [where we stayed] was about an hour away from a distribution center in the mountains,” Tice says. “When we got [to the distribution center] Thursday morning, almost immediately they were passing out the supplies we brought.We were meeting an immediate need.” The first day, the Bethel team helped clean out a home devastated by the hurricane. The owner was a woman named Ruby who was living what Tice describes as a “Job story.” The day before the Bethel group arrived, she had lost her husband. Two of her children had passed away a few years ago; the third was addicted to drugs, so she was raising her 10-year-old granddaughter. And last year, she spent 28 days in the hospital and was still recovering. When Hurricane Helene ripped through Tennessee, it destroyed her home. The Bethel team was in the right place at the right time to serve in love. They mucked out rooms, removing wet and moldy items, carpeting and drywall. The next morning, they had the chance to meet Ruby. “Through tears, she shared her story.We had no words but asked if she would accept hugs, and all melted into each other’s arms,” Tice says. “It was heartbreaking to throw all of her belongings away, having been destroyed by the flood, then the following weeks of molding.” The Bethel team was able to clear the home, making it possible to dry out and rebuild. Miraculously, the one photo book Ruby was praying for survived with no damage. The students had BY: Lissa (Grashorn) Diaz ’07 Answering a Call to Serve
made it their mission to find it and were shocked to discover the binder and pictures were clean, despite everything else on the floor being ruined. When they handed it to Ruby, she broke down crying and praising God. The next day, the Bethel group joined another team that was working to plant a church in the town of Hampton, Tenn. Together, they removed mud-saturated drywall and paneling, where flood waters had reached three feet. They left the house ready to receive new life, while expanding this church planting team’s presence in the community. The Bethel group worshipped with their host church Sunday morning and returned to campus around 11 p.m. that evening, exhausted but filled with gratitude. “I think when disasters happen, people think ‘I want to help, but I don’t know how.’ This is perspective-changing for us. To know we can be used to help people come out of the depths of despair was just really impactful,” Tice says. “I think when disasters happen, people think ‘I want to help but I don’t know how.’ This is perspective-changing for us. To know we can be used to help people come out of the depths of despair was just really impactful.” - Jeremy Tice Page 4: The Bethel team stands in front of a townhouse they helped clear after Hurricane Helene. They are (left to right) church planter Ryan Vernon; Bethel students Owen Ransom, David Setka, Nathan Kropiewnicki, Abraham Guernsey, Zak Shaffer; and Missionary-in-Residence Jeremy Tice. Page 5, top: The Bethel team mucks out a townhouse devastated by Hurricane Helene. Middle: Zak and David search for Ruby’s beloved photo album. Bottom: The Bethel team sets out from campus with the trailer of supplies donated from St. Mark Missionary Church. 5 SPRING 2025
6 BETHELUNIVERSITY.EDU/MAGAZINE When President Bellefeuille announced her decision to retire from Bethel University at the end of the 2024-25 academic year, the Bethel Board of Trustees acted quickly to form a presidential search committee. The first task for this group, comprised of trustees, alumni, faculty, staff, administrators and the president of the Missionary Church, was to identify a search firm to assist with a nationwide search. They chose FaithSearch Partners (FSP), an expert providing lasting solutions and championing faith-driven leaders. Since November, they’ve been working with this firm to help identify a pool of qualified candidates for Bethel’s next president. “FaithSearch Partners is one of the most respected faithfocused executive search firms in the U.S.,” says Brian Habegger, Chair of the Bethel Board of Trustees. “They have given us the support and expertise we need in this incredibly important process to help assess, guide and secure candidates for Bethel University’s next president.” One of the first tasks for FSP was to develop a presidential profile, outlining the qualities Bethel needs in its next president. They did this through extensive background work, talking with numerous key stakeholders, including faculty, staff, trustees, students, alumni, community members, local pastors, donors, Missionary Church leaders, as well as the search committee. Unlike a typical job search, this wasn’t posted to job boards. Rather, potential candidates were sought out or referred to FSP. “Bethel’s story of spiritual vibrancy, long-standing mission fidelity, and historical presence in the CCCU attracted a strong pool of candidates – and that reputation is what drew so much interest,” says Kimberley Wiedefeld of FaithSearch Partners. “Missional alignment was absolutely critical.” From December through February, FSP was tasked with identifying candidates and following up on referrals. Then, from January through March, they spent countless hours reviewing and interviewing more than 100 candidates. “FSP researched and pursued individuals from a broad group of more than 1,060 prospects, responded to inquiries, conducted detailed interviews and narrowed the list to a group of qualified candidates, which the committee discussed with FSP over spring break. Collectively, the committee narrowed it further to a select list of candidates, which the search committee will interview in person,” said Daryl Pannabecker, committee chairman, in a March 2025 interview. The Presidential Search Committee is currently in the process of interviewing finalists, with a candidate expected to be selected by summer 2025. The committee urges the Bethel community to continue to remain in fervent prayer about this important decision. Updates will be posted to our website at BethelUniversity.edu/President. Mission Minded: A Search for Bethel’s Next President BY: Lissa (Grashorn) Diaz ’07 Nov. 2024-Jan. 2025: FSP chosen and key stakeholder meetings held to develop Presidential Profile Dec. 2024-March 2025: FSP identifies candidates March-May 2025: Search committee selecting the president July 2025: New president to start* *Tentative and contingent on individual hired Presidential Search Timeline
National Recognition for Bethel University For the 21st consecutive year, Bethel University has been recognized by U.S. News on their annual Best Colleges list. For 2025, Bethel is ranked among the Midwest’s Best Regional Universities and listed as No. 23 for social mobility, which ranks schools based on their ability to graduate lower income, Pelleligible students. Bethel was also ranked for its School of Nursing. Bethel University has also been named to Money Magazine’s “Best Colleges 2024,” ranked by value, and Washington Monthly’s “2024 Best Bang for the Buck” list, which rates schools based on how well they help non-wealthy students attain marketable degrees at affordable prices. Bethel has been ranked No. 1 in Indiana and the nation for BSN NCLEX (National Council Licensure Examination) pass rates. This ranking comes from the National Council of the State Boards of Nursing, following the second year in a row that Bethel nursing graduates reached a 100% pass rate for the NCLEX. Bethel University Hosts 2025 NAIA Swimming National Championships at Elkhart Health & Aquatics Center Bethel University was selected to host the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) Swim and Dive National Championships for 2025 and 2026 at the Elkhart Health & Aquatics Center in Elkhart, Ind. The initial term of the agreement is for two years. The bid process opened in early 2024 as the NAIA’s term with the Columbus, GA Sports Council — who previously hosted the event —was nearing an end. The first event was held March 5-8, 2025, bringing 325 athletes, plus coaches, staff and hundreds of spectators to the region. Learn more on p. 17. Bethel Hosts Fourth Annual Starting Small Summit Bethel University hosted the fourth annual Starting Small Summit April 2, 2025. Moderated by business alumnus Cameron Nagle ’22, founder and host of Starting Small Podcast, this year’s summit featured entrepreneurial stories from Suze Dowling, founder of Pattern; James W. Keyes, former CEO of Blockbuster and 7-Eleven; and Alex Douzet, founder of Ollie and Pumpkin. The summit was filmed for an upcoming documentary featuring Nagle and debuted his new book, “Starting Small: The Raw Truth Behind Entrepreneurship and the American Dream,” focused on his podcast. To learn more, visit BethelUniversity.edu/StartingSmall. Bethel Celebrates Former Indiana Governor with Birthday Bash at Bowen Museum on Campus (1) Bethel University celebrated the birthday of former Governor of Indiana Dr. Otis R. Bowen at the “Bowen Birthday Bash” on Wed., Feb. 26, 2025, in the Bowen Museum, located in the Otis and Elizabeth Bowen Library building on Bethel’s campus. The event, primarily for Bethel students, was designed to generate interest in the Bowen Museum, which houses artifacts from Dr. Bowen’s life – from his early years, to his career as an obstetrician, to his tenure as governor of Indiana (1973-1981) and Secretary of Health and Human Services under President Ronald Regan (1985-1989). Dr. Bowen passed away on May 4, 2013. This year would have marked his 107th birthday. Students enjoyed cake and punch, tried on replicas of Doc Bowen’s iconic horn-rimmed glasses and toured the museum. “Broadway Love Letters” at Bethel University (2) Theatre veterans and Bethel University alumni Jennie Sophia ’02 and Shawn Holtgren ’95 brought Broadway stories to life through some of the most unforgettable songs ever written in “Broadway Love Letters.” This event was presented Feb. 14, 2025, in the Everest-Rohrer Auditorium on Bethel’s campus. A “Sweet & Greet” reception, was held prior to the show at in the Everest-Rohrer Rotunda. Alumni and friends enjoyed cookies, cupcakes, sodas and more, plus a Polaroid photo booth. CAMPUS L I FE CAMPUS NEWS 1 2 7 SPRING 2025
Career Fair Held on Campus Bethel University hosted a career and internship fair on Thurs., Feb. 6, 2025, in the Goodman Gymnasium on Bethel’s campus. Representatives from more than 40 employers in a variety of industries – including Patrick Industries, Lake City Bank, WFRN, The Mishawaka Police Department, Oaklawn and nine local school districts, among many others – were on hand to talk about available jobs and internships. The event was free, and students had the opportunity to get a professional headshot. Bethel Holds 4th Annual Lighting of the Pilot Lights (3) On Nov. 25, 2024, President Bellefeuille hosted the 4th annual Lighting of the Pilot Lights around the ponds. Students, faculty and staff enjoyed carols, cookies, lights and Christmas cheer. Bethel Partners with Lake City Bank for Annual Service Day 2024 (4) Bethel University’s 35th annual campus-wide Service Day took place on Tues., Oct. 1, 2024, sponsored by Lake City Bank. Bethel students, faculty and staff served together throughout Michiana at more than 20 local sites. The day wrapped up around 2 p.m., with students, faculty and staff receiving lunches on location to serve longer. All classes before 6 p.m. were cancelled so students and faculty could participate. A variety of locations were served this year, including Center for the Homeless, City of Mishawaka – Parks Department, Food Bank of Northern Indiana, Hello Gorgeous!, Hope Ministries, Humane Society of St. Joseph County and Unity Gardens, among others. Bethel Hosts Go2BU Immersive Campus Visit Experience Oct. 17-18, 2024, Bethel University is hosted Go2BU, a 24-hour immersive campus visit experience for high school juniors, seniors and transfer students. Students had the chance to discover what it’s like to be a Bethel Pilot by staying overnight at Bethel University, attending chapel, observing class and participating in Tip-Off Madness, our annual kick-off to basketball season. Learn more about this year’s event at BethelUniversity.edu/Go2BU. Bethel Hosts Pastors for 12th Annual Prayer Walk August 23, 2024, pastors gathered at the helm to pray corporately, before splitting into groups to cover various locations around campus in prayer. Afterward, pastors joined students, faculty and staff for the first chapel of the semester, followed by lunch in the Presidents’ Dining Room. Music and Theatre present "The Sound of Music" The Department of Music & Theatre presented the beloved musical “The Sound of Music,” music by Richard Rodgers, lyrics by Oscar Hammerstein II, book by Howard Lindsay and Russel Crouse, March 28-29 and April 4-5. Special accommodations included an interpreted show, a sing-along and a sensory-friendly morning show. Music Gala Fundraiser Held on Campus A music gala was held on Sat., March 15, 2025, featuring the University Choir, BU Voices and the Bethel Worship Collective. The event included a dinner followed by a concert. Proceeds from the gala supported touring costs and new equipment for the music department. Third Annual Festival of Jazz and Jim Pickley Memorial Concert Bethel’s Third Annual Festival of Jazz was held Feb. 15, 2025. Throughout the day, six area high school jazz bands gathered to perform, learn and improvise with some of the greatest professionals around. The event culminated with the Jim Pickley Memorial Concert. “Gloria” Celebrates Christmas The Bethel University Music Department presented its annual Christmas concert, “Gloria,” December 6 and 7, 2024, featuring the Percussion Ensemble, BU Voices, Chamber Orchestra with Wind Ensemble, University Choir, Piano Ensembles and Bethel Worship Collective. The concert premiered a live performance of the full orchestration of “Treasure in a Manger,” a Bethel Worship Collective original. Continued from p. 7 3 4 Learn more at BethelUniversity.edu/News 8 BETHELUNIVERSITY.EDU/MAGAZINE
The day before Dr. Abson Joseph’s interview for Bethel University’s Vice President for Academic Services (VPAS) position, he and his wife, Larisa, were walking through campus. They both felt that something was different about this place. “There was something that grabbed a hold of my heart,” says Joseph. That “something” was the people – particularly the students. Joseph became the VPAS at Bethel in July 2024. Now almost a year into the role, his passion for this community has only grown. “It matters to be a good person who [for instance] happens to do nursing… [or] happens to be a businessman,” says Joseph. “Bethel cares for what happens to the heart.” Joseph sees his role as a true ministry – one that God has revealed on a path that has taken some unexpected turns. From Joseph’s first year on this earth – when four different tragedies threatened his life – God formed him for this moment. In the aftermath of those tragedies, Joseph’s parents promised that, if God spared him, they would dedicate him to God’s service. That call has led Joseph around the world through 18 years of higher education experience in both faculty and administrative roles. His varied background allows him the unique perspective necessary for the current moment at Bethel. “I am in a position where I have received and have given in multiple contexts,” Joseph says. “This allows me to serve the students well because I understand what they are going through.” Joseph’s experience as a father of two daughters has catalyzed the importance of the four years that Bethel faculty have with the students who come to campus. “The things that we do within those four years [bear impact] five, six, ten years downstream. This is a big responsibility.” Joseph reminds himself daily of the purpose behind his work. It is the same purpose that stirred within him and his wife on their visit to campus and has now become his mantra: forming lives, not buildings. [My focus is] to build systems, policies, structures and procedures that allow us to touch the student’s heart and bring about that transformation.” Forming Lives of Impact New VPAS Focuses on People 9 SPRING 2025 BY: Aaron Charles ’15
Via Crucis – Art Helps Us Experience Christ’s Passion 10 BETHELUNIVERSITY.EDU/MAGAZINE BY: Melyssa Geever ’23 Chad Jay, Assistant Professor of Art at Bethel University, prefers that the subjects of his paintings reflect people or images he has seen in real life. This can be clearly seen in his new exhibit for Via Crucis, a series of 15 paintings depicting the stations of the cross. Early in 2023, Jay and Becki Graves, Director of Worship Arts, were looking for a way to engage students in art across multiple disciplines. They wanted to create a project that would highlight topics that bring Christians together. “What connects us all across so many denominations?” Jay asks from his seat in the Weaver art gallery on campus, where his paintings are currently showcased. “The Passion story.” Soon after starting to collaborate, Jay and Graves discovered a unique funding opportunity to make their project come to life. Graves applied for and was awarded a Vital Worship Grant from Calvin University. With the funding in place, they agreed to launch a project called Via Crucis, or “The Way of Suffering”. The entirety of the project features art from multiple disciplines including choral arrangements, original music written and produced by the Worship Arts class and Jay’s series of paintings. “Creating this body of work was a deeply personal and moving experience.” Jay says. “My hope is that Via Crucis will not simply be viewed but prayerfully experienced, drawing viewers into the mystery of Christ’s Passion and Resurrection in a way that resonates with their own journey of faith.” Bethel students and the community have been invited to engage with the Via Crucis paintings by walking through the gallery and leaving notes about their experience, which Jay has been pleasantly surprised to see more of every day. The exhibit, along with choral music and original poetry, was presented to the public at St. Paul’s Memorial Church in South Bend on April 11, 2025. People throughout the community were able to experience the central story of the Gospel through art. While Jay’s paintings reflect specific people from his life, his hope is that we can all see ourselves in Jesus’ story.
Retirements Reg Klopfenstein, D.M., (1) professor of music, will retire after 29 years of service to Bethel University. During his storied career, he served as director and founder of the Bethel University Percussion Ensemble (1996-present) and Jazz Combo (1997-2018). He was director of Jazz Ensemble (1996-2018) and established and directed the Jazz Coffeehouse Concerts (1999-2018). Earlier in his career, he also served as director of the Flute Ensemble and co-director of the Pep Band and Concert Band. He has served as percussionist for the Bethel University Faculty Jazz Trio and planned and directed Bethel University Jazz Tours (2004-2018). From 1982-1991 Reg held the position of Associate Principal Timpanist and Percussionist of the Honolulu Symphony Orchestra. Gisela Schmidt, Ph.D., (2) associate professor of nursing, will conclude her 44-year career as a nurse educator this spring. The last four of those years were spent at Bethel. Schmidt began teaching in Argentina in 1981 and came to the United States to teach at Andrews University (2003-2021). Erwin Sucipto, Ph.D., (3) professor of physics, has served at Bethel University for 23 years, teaching physics for engineering, science and non-science majors, developing courses, laboratories and programs. He’s also provided academic advising, mentored students and engaged in institutional and community service. A key contribution to Bethel was matching curriculum for the 3-2 Engineering program with Notre Dame. Prior to coming to Bethel, Sucipto served as Physics Instructor at University of Arizona. He began his career in 1979 as a faculty member at Bandung Institute of Technology in Indonesia and was involved in training the Indonesian team for the International Physics Olympiad in 1999. He was honored by colleagues and students as the 2006 and 2024 Bethel University Professor of the Year. He is also the recipient of the 2024-2025 Indiana Physics Teacher of the Year award. Promotions Amy DeCelles, Ph.D., (4) was promoted to Professor of Math for Fall 2025. DeCelles previously served as Associate Professor of Math and has been at Bethel since 2021. Theo Williams, Ph.D., (5) chair of the department of literature and language studies, was promoted to Professor of Communications for Fall 2025. Williams previously served as Associate Professor of Communications and has been at Bethel since 2006. CAMPUS LIFE FACULTY & STAFF NEWS 2 6 3 7 4 8 1 5 11 SPRING 2025
Elizabeth McLaughlin Published in “Communicating for Life” Elizabeth McLaughlin, Ph.D., (6) professor of communication, recently wrote a chapter for “Communicating for Life: Christian Stewardship in Community and Media.” This updated and expanded edition of the book by Quentin J. Schultze was published in 2024 by Foundations, a division of Integratio Press. McLaughlin’s contribution is,“Response to Chapter 11: Authentic Communication in the Imago Dei,” focusing on seeing the image of God in others and how all people share sacred worth and dignity within that core identity. Bethel Names Vice President for Academic Services Abson Joseph, Ph.D., (7) was appointed Vice President for Academic Services (VPAS) for Bethel University, and began his new role on July 15, 2024. Joseph brings 18 years of experience in higher education to the role, as a faculty member and administrator. He has served the last 12 years at Indiana Wesleyan University (IWU), most recently as dean of academic services for Wesley Seminary, where he previously served as vice president for academic affairs and academic dean at the seminary. Joseph has a diploma in theology from Caribbean Wesleyan College (Jamaica), a master of divinity from Asbury Theological Seminary (Wilmore, Ky.) and a doctor of philosophy from Brunel University/ London School of Theology (London, United Kingdom). He also earned a certificate in fundraising management from Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy. Read more about him on p. 9. Bellefeuille Announces Retirement, FaithSearch Partners Named as Search Firm for Next Bethel President Bethel University President Barbara K. Bellefeuille, Ed.D., (8) announced her plans to retire in June 2025, after serving the university for 13 years (four in the highest leadership role). Her retirement decision comes after fulfilling her commitment to Bethel’s Board of Trustees. In preparation for Bellefeuille’s departure at the end of the school year, the Bethel University Board of Trustees formed a presidential search committee and identified FaithSearch Partners (FSP) as the executive search firm partner of the national search for Bethel’s next president. Learn more on p. 6. Continued from p. 11 World Partners invites you to join in the harvest by signing up for our new initiative, Harvest-Ready Partners™. It’s your inside track to the work Jesus is doing through the global family of World Partners. Be inspired by all the Harvest-Ready resources we’ve designed to help you connect, engage and learn directly from our missionaries and partners about becoming more harvest-ready. Enhance your mission readiness and actively support disciple-making around the world and around you! wpartners.org | 260.747.9439 | info@wpartners.org Jesus promised a global harvest. We trust Him to do it. Join us! World Partners is the Missionary Church family participating together in Jesus’ global disciple-making promise. Come find your place in the promise! The harvest is ready. Are you? Visit www.Harvest-Ready.app to learn more and register today. Harvest-Ready P A R T N E R S Next time you’re on the Bethel campus, visit the World Partners Office for Global Engagement led by our missionaries, Jeremy and Mindie Tice.
Top: Wyn Laidig leads a Bethel trip to Israel. Inset: Wyn and Carol Laidig. 13 SPRING 2025 For Wyn and Carol Laidig, investing in Bethel University merges their core values with a conviction to live their lives according to what the Bible says. The couple made a very large gift toward the Faithful Campaign, which is focused on Bethel’s people, purpose and place. This investment is the largest individual gift the university has ever received and makes up a significant portion of the $6.5 million capital campaign. “I hope we help keep the university on solid footing, rooted in the absolute truth of the Bible, and help equip Bethel to take steps into the future,” Wyn says. “It’s our prayer that many more will join us in this worthy endeavor.” They know Bethel is a place where their gift will make a significant impact. Already, it has been put to use to make much-needed renovations to Shupe Hall and Oakwood Hall (our freshman dorms), replace the roof on Goodman Gym, attend to deferred maintenance projects and fund positions in spiritual life and marketing. The Laidigs believe in the power of education, taught from a biblical worldview, to produce leaders with humble conviction for the cause of Christ. “As a believer, professor and someone in ministry, these things all came together at Bethel,” Wyn says. He first became connected with Bethel through board member Sam Davenport, who asked him to consider serving on Bethel’s Board of Trustees. He became further invested when he served as an adjunct professor, leading May Term trips to Israel – an experience he describes as life-changing. Though Wyn began his career as a professor of electrical engineering and physics, and Carol as a nurse, the Laidigs served for 20 years on the mission field. They raised their family as missionaries in Indonesia, which has the largest Muslim population in the world. Wyn served as a country director for 300 missionaries and worked on Bible translation through Wycliffe. Carol homeschooled their children and provided medical care in remote communities. The Laidigs returned to the United States in the early 2000s, when their children were in college and Wyn’s father was ready to sell his family business. Wyn took over Laidig Systems, Inc., a world leader in bulk material storage and reclaim, and served as president until his retirement in April 2025. Over the course of his career with Laidig Systems, the company grew exponentially. Today, the Laidigs are focused on ministry and fellowship, counseling and spending time with their grandchildren. “I hope when people look at me, they’ll say, he made mistakes but he always tried to live his life according to the word of God,” Wyn says. Learn more about the Faithful Campaign and how you can join the Laidigs in giving at BethelUniversity.edu/Faithful. Focusing their Lives on God, Family and Education BY: Lissa (Grashorn) Diaz ’07
14 BETHELUNIVERSITY.EDU/MAGAZINE A Job Faithfully Done BY: Lissa (Grashorn) Diaz ’07 When Dr. Barb Bellefeuille assumed the role of president of Bethel University, first on an interim basis in July 2021 and then officially as president in March of 2022, she committed to three years and three priorities. She set out to: strengthen Bethel’s mission through a renewed focus on the relationship between the university and the Missionary Church denomination; care for Bethel’s people through strategic hires, including building Bethel’s cabinet; and fortify Bethel spaces for the future through the $6.5 million Faithful campaign. Now, three years later, she has worked hard to advance these priorities. During Bellefeuille’s tenure, Bethel has strengthened its relationship with the Missionary Church through intentional missional alignment and key events. In 2023, two annual traditions began, including, “Bethel Day with the Missionary Church,” where churches around the country take time in their Sunday services to celebrate Bethel University, and “Missionary Church Day at Bethel,” where pastors are invited on campus to attend chapel, enjoy lunch and interact with students. Bellefeuille has supported Bethel’s presence at all four regional Missionary Church summer camps, district and leadership conferences and the SHIFT National conference. She re-established the Pastors Prayer Walk each August and worked with Enrollment to increase scholarships for Missionary Church students. “I had a goal during my presidency to increase the number of Missionary Church students on our campus by asking them to consider Bethel first in their college search. This year showed the greatest promise as Missionary Church students coming in as freshmen increased by 78% over last year,” Bellefeuille says. She has worked to care for Bethel’s people in a variety of ways. She was responsible for five cabinet hires, a faculty/staff chaplain to care for employees spiritually and the establishment of a Vice President for Spiritual Life and University Affairs. She instituted an 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. work week, with half-day Fridays in the summer, and started the annual “Lighting of the Pilot Lights” to mark the Christmas season.
15 SPRING 2025 She cared for Bethel’s place through the “Faithful Campaign,” focused on strengthening Bethel for the future through an emphasis on its purpose, people and place. Because of this campaign, she secured the largest single gift from a living donor in Bethel’s history. This enabled many deferred maintenance projects to be completed, including renovations in the freshman dorms, Shupe and Oakwood, exterior work on the Huffman Administration Building, roofing on the Goodman Gymnasium, new HVAC systems for the Academic Center, flooring for the common areas in Sailor Hall and much more. The campaign also allowed for the hiring of several key positions, including a marketing partner to expand Bethel’s reach to prospective students. But perhaps most importantly to her personally, she helped keep campus focused on Jesus through annual themes based on scripture, including “He must increase, I must decrease” and “Speak Jesus.” “I think I’m most fulfilled by how we’ve re-centered our purpose,” Bellefeuille says. “My first chapel focused on biblical truth. During [that] chapel, we laid out Bibles signed by faculty and staff … and every single one was taken. Later I heard a story of a student reaching out to a faculty member for prayer, just because they had written in that Bible.” A lifelong educator, Bellefeuille has made herself particularly accessible to students, continuing to mentor several students as she’s served as president. She started “Barb’s Barn Bash,” an annual fall harvest party, and can often be seen at campus events, stopping to talk and laugh with students on the sidewalks. “I have felt very privileged to have had the opportunity to represent such an institution. It is an honor. As a female president, I trust I have been able to encourage future young ladies to aspire to leadership.” As Bellefeuille wraps up her 13th year at Bethel (she served as Vice President for Academic Services from 2012-2021), she looks forward to taking a spiritual retreat, enjoying a slower pace for the first few months and spending more time with the animals on her hobby farm in Granger. But she also plans to remain a good friend of the university and Christ-centered higher education. “My life has been poured into educating future generations with a biblical and Christ-centered focus. I have deeply loved my work and finishing my career as President of Bethel is something I will cherish!” says Bellefeuille. President Bellefeuille cared for Bethel University through the $6.5 million “Faithful Campaign,” focused on Bethel's purpose, people and place. Page 14: Bellefeuille with students at the inaugural Lighting of the Pilot Lights; Page 14, inset: with Rodney Arnold, president of the Missionary Church and Shawn Holtgren, Ph.D., during Missionary Church Day at Bethel. Page 15, left to right: Dr. Bellefeuille throwing the first pitch at a South Bend Cubs game; with students at her inauguration celebration; with new students and families at the President’s Picnic; speaking at commencement.
16 BETHELUNIVERSITY.EDU/MAGAZINE WOMEN’S TENNIS For the first time in program history, the Women’s Tennis team won the Crossroads League Tournament and Regular Season titles, ending Indiana Wesleyan’s 33-year streak. Bethel ended with a 12-0 record and 8-0 in the Crossroads League, with a trip to the NAIA National Tournament set for May 13-17 at the Mobile Tennis Center in Mobile, Ala. MEN’S TENNIS The Men’s Tennis team finished the fall with a 6-5 record and 4-4 in Crossroads League play. After defeating Goshen College 5-2 in the Crossroads League Quarterfinal, Bethel was swept 4-0 by Grace College in the Semi-Final. Bethel also nearly upset No. 24 Marian at home 4-3 on Sept. 26 and pulled off a quality victory over Indiana Wesleyan 4-3 at home. MEN’S SOCCER In the final NAIA Coaches Poll, the Men’s Soccer team was ranked No. 13 after a tough 5-4 record in the Crossroads League season and 13-6-2 overall record. After an early loss in the Crossroads League Tournament Quarterfinal to Marian 3-2, the Pilots overcame No. 17 Indiana Tech at Morey Field in the NAIA Second Round. They went on to the NAIA Final Site for the third consecutive season, and ended with a loss to the NAIA RunnerUp, No. 5 William Penn, 3-1 in Wichita, Kan. WOMEN’S SOCCER The Women’s Soccer team ended their season with a 7-7-7 record and 0-4-5 in the Crossroads League. The team lost to No. 11 Spring Arbor in the Crossroads League Quarterfinal 6-0, then lost to Trinity Christian 3-0 in the NCCAA North-Central Regional Championship, but made the NCCAA National Tournament off an at-large bid. Bethel defeated Asbury (Ky.) 1-0 and tied Judson 1-1 in Pool A, but lost the tie breaker to return to the NCCAA National Championship game. WOMEN’S GOLF The Women’s Golf team fell short of a four-peat of the NCCAA National Championship in Palm Coast, Fla. at the Hammock Beach Resort Beach Course. Selah Unwin and Aynslee Myer were named All American Team. Bethel won the LTU Collegiate Kickoff, Battle at Blackthorn, NCCAA North-Central Regional Championship, Rumble at the Rock and Eternal Joy Match Play Series. The Pilots took runner-up at the Stonehenge Invitational and the Saints Classic. The team will compete to make the NAIA Championship in the Spring. MEN’S GOLF The Men’s Golf team took a runner-up finish at the NCCAA National Championship at the Hammock Beach Resort Conservatory Course in Palm Coast, Fla., winning five of six tournaments leading up to it. Janah Kumfer and Earl Williams were named All Americans. The Pilots took runner-up at the Egypt Valley Invitational. MEN’S CROSS COUNTRY The Men’s Cross Country team placed sixth of eleven teams at the NCCAA National Championship and ninth at the Crossroads League Championship. WOMEN’S CROSS COUNTRY The Women’s Cross Country team placed seventh of eleven teams at the NCCAA National Championship and ninth at the Crossroads League Championship. Continued on p. 18. 1 2 3 4 5 (1) Victor Bonsergent, (2) Piero Sabroso (3) Karisa Dyer, (4) Men's Cross Country, (5) Maddy Payne. SPORTS UPDATES Kenzy Abdelaal
17 SPRING 2025 Bethel’s Men’s and Women’s Soccer teams traveled 12 miles north to Niles, Mich., in August to put on a skills clinic for the youth of Summit Soccer, a ministry of Summit Church. Summit students, led by Bethel athletes, practiced skills like dribbling, shooting, passing and scrimmaging, ahead of their season’s start. Now in its 17th year, Summit Soccer draws families from all over Michiana with its faith-focused youth league, which runs from August to October each year. “We were excited to help them fulfill their mission and purpose,” said Bethel Men’s Soccer Head Coach Thiago Pinto. “They have one of the largest programs in the Midwest with nearly 500 kids.” The clinic and partnership between Bethel and Summit Soccer were first thought of in the spring of 2024 during a meeting between Bethel and Summit. Bethel Men’s and Women’s soccer coaches Thiago Pinto and Jason Freeman, along with Professor Kent Eby, Ph.D., met with Summit Lead Pastor Dan Miller, who also currently serves as Vice President of the Missionary Church, and Summit Soccer director Nakita Walter. “Our mission [at Summit] is leading people to follow Christ. We use soccer to do that. Bethel uses soccer to share Christ around the world,” Miller said. It was that shared mission that brought the two groups together. “Now in partnership, we can learn from Bethel. We have an opportunity – almost like a feeder program for Bethel. We had parents who were very excited and wanted to come to Bethel. This is a relationship-building connection with the university and the local church,” said Miller. Walter agrees, noting that friendships were built between Summit and Bethel players at the clinic, which made students excited to come see the college athletes in action. The evening before the Summit Soccer clinic, the Bethel Men’s Soccer team had just returned from a mission trip in Mexico, where they served at an orphanage and did outreach clinics, yet they brought a magnetic energy and drew kids in on their level. “It was very touching to me – one of the kids, at the end of the [clinic], told his dad he wanted me to be his coach,” says Bethel midfielder Jovaunn Ramos, a graduate student from Belize. “I’m happy they were able to open up to me.” Beyond the clinic, Bethel coaches helped Summit Soccer by putting on a coach training seminar, and Bethel players attended Summit’s August 31 game. Then, Summit Soccer players reciprocated, attending Bethel’s September 7 men’s and women’s games. The hope for both groups is that the relationships built will extend beyond the soccer season. “This is an investment in time and relationship,” Miller said. Sharing Christ Through Soccer BY: Lissa (Grashorn) Diaz ’07 Pictured: Bethel men’s and women’s soccer players work with Summit Soccer students during a pre-season youth clinic.
For more sports updates and the latest stats, visit the official home of Bethel Pilots at BUpilots.com 18 BETHELUNIVERSITY.EDU/MAGAZINE Continued from p. 16 SPORTS UPDATES WOMEN’S VOLLEYBALL The Women’s Volleyball team, under the direction of first-year Head Coach and Bethel Volleyball alumna Erica Dregitz, finished the season 21-18 and 8-10 in the Crossroads League. Bethel lost to the Grace Lancers 3-1 in the Crossroads League Quarterfinal, but swept Judson in the NCCAA North-Central Regional Championship. The Pilots swept MACU (Okla.) and Carolina University but lost 3-0 to Columbia International to move on to the NCCAA National Tournament Semifinal, where Jessup (Calif.) swept BU. MEN’S BOWLING The Men’s Bowling team placed eighth at the Crossroads League Championship at Signature Lanes in Goshen, Ind. WOMEN’S BOWLING The Women’s Bowling team placed eighth in the Crossroads League Championship at Signature Lanes in Goshen, Ind. MEN’S BASKETBALL The Men’s Basketball team made it to the NAIA Round of 16 in Kansas City and forced overtime with a big Preston Phillips three from inside half court but fell to LSU-Alexandria in a tough game. The Pilots hosted the NAIA first and second rounds in the Gates Gymnasium for the first time in program history and won both games to advance. The Pilots ended the season with a 24-9 overall record and 14-4 in the Crossroads League. WOMEN’S BASKETBALL The Women’s Basketball team ended their season with a 13-16 record and 6-12 in the Crossroads League to improve since head coach Scott Polsgrove took the helm of the program. The Pilots made the Crossroads League Tournament and ended the season in the Quarterfinal with a 75-58 loss to No. 9 Saint Francis (Ind.). - Luke Schrock Jameir Jefferson Bethel Basketball Game Raises Funds for Local Teen with Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) Bethel University’s men’s basketball team played Indiana University South Bend in a special charity game on Sat., Nov. 9, 2024. Half of the proceeds from ticket sales went toward supporting Ella Hunt, a local teen who was diagnosed with Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) as an infant. Due to her condition, Ella has lost all muscle control and is unable to move, swallow or breathe on her own. Her mind is not affected and she has typical teenage dreams and goals, inspiring others through her positive outlook on life. A check for $1,863 was presented at the game, and $2,300 in total was raised to help the family with medical needs. You can learn more about Ella’s story on her Facebook page, EllaLanayHunt. The entire event, from start to finish, was planned and organized by Bethel’s Administration and Organization class, taught by Kiel Boynton, Assistant Professor of Kinesiology. The class voted to have Ella as the beneficiary. Her family is well connected to Bethel: her brother Noah graduated in 2024, and her brother Carter is a current freshman.
19 SPRING 2025 NAIA SWIM NATIONALS SHOWS THE BENEFIT OF COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS Deb Thompson, head coach of Bethel’s swimming and diving teams, has been coming to work on Bethel’s campus since 2018. This year, however, she has spent most of her time in Elkhart, Ind. Nestled downtown on the Elkhart River is the Elkhart Health and Aquatics Center (HAC), home of the Bethel swimming and diving teams. Recently built in 2019, it is one of the largest public swimming facilities in the nation. This year, it will also be the host site of the 2025 National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) Swim and Dive National Championships. “The Elkhart Aquatics Center is a world-class facility,” Tony Natali, Bethel athletic director, says. “We look forward to working with the NAIA to provide a great student-athlete experience to all those who attend.” This event will bring over 400 athletes, along with their coaches and families, to Elkhart for a four-day competition. For Elkhart, this means a substantial boost to the local economy. The NAIA states on their website that National Championship events have the potential to draw between 1,300-1,500 visitors and generate between $400,000 and $600,000 in local tourism revenue. Athletic tourism accounts for over $1 billion in economic activity in the Michiana region, and Bethel is proud to play a significant role in continuing to grow that number. Staff and students have spent more than 18 months working with the Community Foundation of Elkhart County to prepare for this event, and everyone is excited to showcase the quality of our region’s amenities, facilities and hospitality. “I’m very proud of the students for all their hard work and commitment,” Thompson says. “They have spent weeks getting up at 4 a.m. to practice and have sacrificed their time to volunteer for this event.” Thompson and her students know that the benefit of an event like this goes both ways. “Bethel University will benefit from the exposure and national recognition of hosting,” Thompson says. “Our students know how lucky they are to compete at a familiar venue.” Through the combined efforts of the Bethel team and support from Elkhart County, this event will show that our community has a lot to offer and that Bethel is an integral part of its success. BY: Melyssa Geever ‘23 Top: Coach Deb Thompson at the pool. Bottom: An event of this magnitude could not have been accomplished without significant volunteer support, organized through Bethel University and the Community Foundation of Elkhart County.
20 BETHELUNIVERSITY.EDU/MAGAZINE Kristie (Nave) Herron ’14, Director of Development and Alumni Engagement 574.807.7959 | Alumni@BethelUniversity.edu ALUMNI NEWS Dear Alumni, As we prepare to close out our 78th academic year here at Bethel, I am reflecting on the connections made throughout the years. From mentors and teammates to finding your spouse and making lifelong friends, Bethel has always been a place of deep connection both interpersonally and spiritually. This has been a special year where we have seen so many of those connections firsthand. At camps last summer, we “cooked up memories” with our alumni and reminisced about meals shared at the Acorn and Dining Commons. Homecoming was in October, and we had the privilege to see alumni come back and connect with former mentors and people who poured into them spiritually. And this May, we look forward to hosting another 50th class on campus and can’t wait to hear stories of dorm life and what campus looked like back then from friends and former roommates. Seeing connections made at Bethel and hearing how those connections evolve as students graduate is such an exciting part of what we do here in the alumni office.We want to hear your stories of connection too. Please update us at BethelUniversity.edu/AlumniUpdate or visit us on campus soon! Stay up to date on upcoming events at BethelUniversity.edu/Alumni-Events. We can’t wait to connect with you! Alumni of the Year Daryle '70 and Brenda Doden Leah Schwartz '03 Young Alumnus Award Cameron Nagle '22 Honarary Alumni Award Brother Tim and Sally Erdel Timothy Award for Outstanding Service
William “Bill” R. Bemis, age 75, of Goshen, Ind., passed away Feb. 25, 2025, at the Center for Hospice, Elkhart. He was born April 21, 1949, in Milwaukee, Wis., to Edwin & Cecile (Prudell) Bemis. In 1971, he married Carol Jo (Gainer) Bemis. Surviving are his wife, Carol Jo, Goshen; children, Sara (Earl) Smith, Goshen; Mark (Angie) Bemis, Middlebury; grandchildren, Aimee, Ana, Ezekiel Smith & Aiden, Caitilin, Briene Bemis; siblings, Catherine Unger, Bridget Bemis, James (Bonnie) Bemis, Margaret (Art) Klein and sisters-in-law, Kathy Bemis & Suzanne Bemis. Preceding him in death are his parents; brothers, Edwin and Peter Bemis; and a brother-inlaw, Roger Unger. In 1972, Bill graduated from the University of Notre Dame with a degree in Architecture. He founded and was the sole proprietor of William Bemis Associates, a premier architectural design company in Las Vegas, NV. Most recently, he worked at Bethel University as the Resident Director of the freshman boys’ dorm, Oakwood Slater Hall. He then worked in Student Development before retiring. Not only did he design and build their home in Las Vegas, but he was also a skilled woodworker who enjoyed remodeling and helping others in any way he could. His grandchildren were the light of his life and lovingly called him “Precise Papa.” He enjoyed passing on his love and knowledge of his craftsmanship to his children and grandchildren. More important to Bill than his family was his relationship with Jesus Christ. For seven years Bill and Carol were active in their Las Vegas church, working with teens, serving in various leadership capacities and helping to plant the church. Upon moving to Northern Indiana, they served in various volunteer capacities at several Missionary churches in the Michiana area. Memorial donations may be directed to Bethel University, Institutional Advancement, 1001 Bethel Circle, Mishawaka, IN 46545 or BethelUniversity.edu/Give. Carolyn Clapper ’69, age 76, was born Oct. 31, 1947, and raised in Battle Creek, Mich. She passed away July 20, 2024. Carolyn surrendered her life to Jesus at age 17. She received a B.A. degree from Bethel College and spent her life working as a missionary with Wycliffe, primarily in Brazil. There, she served for 40 years, including eight years as the director's administrative assistant and the rest of her years in accounting roles. Carolyn left Brazil in 2012, and enjoyed working with the SIL Americas Area finance department. She continued to work for SIL Brazil while living in Dallas. She officially retired in 2017 and returned as a part-time volunteer to the SIL Americas Area finance department where she volunteered until her death. Paul Erdel, age 97, was born in Clinton Co., Ind., on Dec. 12,1927, and died peacefully in Mishawaka, Ind., on Dec. 13, 2024. His life of humble service included global leadership; but he wanted to be remembered primarily as an evangelical missionary to Esmeraldas, Ecuador (1953-1998), who followed the call of his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Paul graduated as valedictorian of Fort Wayne Bible Institute (FWBI), taking further degrees at Taylor University, Indiana University and Trinity Evangelical Divinity School, while also studying at Purdue, Ball State, St. Francis (Ft. Wayne), Winona Lake School of Theology and Jerusalem University College. He married Chloetta Egly in 1950, and theirs was an unusually gifted partnership in ministry for 40 years until her passing. A strong advocate for Christian higher education, Paul led three different Spanish language Bible institutes and taught at eight institutions of higher education in four countries. In 1996 Paul married Ruth, a missionary widow with a former global radio ministry in Russian, Spanish and English from HCJB in Quito, Ecuador. In retirement Paul personally led Bethel University’s semester abroad study program in Ecuador for eight years, continued occasional teaching at Bethel and elsewhere and encouraged Missionary Church Latino pastors working in Michiana. Paul was preceded in death by his parents, George W. Erdel and Bessie M. (Glick) Erdel, his first wife, Chloetta E. (Egly) Erdel, sister, Julia E. (Erdel) Farley, and two infant greatgrandchildren. He is survived by his second wife, Ruth F. (Deyneka Shalanko) Erdel, four living children, Timothy (Sally) Erdel, David (Laura) Erdel, John (Lorena) Erdel and Ruth (Tim) Stuck, 12 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren, as well as by two stepchildren, John (Maria) Shalanko and Lydia Shalanko, three step grandchildren, two step great-grandchildren and many extended family members. Rev. Diane Howard ’78, age 68, of Medway, passed away Nov. 19, 2024, at Miami Valley Hospital. She was born March 20, 1956 in Mishawaka, Ind., the daughter of Joe “J.R.” and Geraldine “Gerry” (Fitts) Howard. She earned a B.A. in Biblical Literature (cum laude) from Bethel University and an M.A. in Christian Ministries/Church Development (cum laude) from Wheaton College. Diane was the President of the Missionary Church Historical Society, gathering and preserving important documents and historical information. For over 40 years, she served Christ faithfully in the Missionary and Methodist denominations, serving in 10 churches and positions, most recently at Rona Community Church. Diane was a willing servant as demonstrated by her involvement in children's work, Bible quizzing programs, camps, Bible studies and church events. She is preceded in death by her father, J.R. Howard. Diane is survived by her mother, Gerry Howard; two brothers, Jay IN MEMORY 21 SPRING 2025
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