A PUBLICATION OF BETHEL UNIVERSITY, IND. VOL UME 36 36/1 I SSUE ONE Spring 2026 Honoring the Past, Looking to the Future.
2 BETHELUNIVERSITY.EDU/MAGAZINE A PUBLICATION OF BETHEL UNIVERSITY, IND. VOLUME 36, ISSUE 1 A LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT Dear Alumni and Friends, One year ago, we had just gone through a lengthy discernment process and I was confirmed as Bethel University’s ninth president. Genuinely, a dream come true! My family and I packed up our lives in Minnesota and moved across the Midwest back to our Indiana home. Shortly after, we literally moved onto Bethel’s campus. As we’ve settled into life here, we love being together, doing life with the students, faculty and staff. Together is more than a theme; it’s our shared story at Bethel. Together — alumni, donors, prospective students and families — God is shaping a community whose learning and living point to His faithfulness. Across campus this year, we’ve seen what together can do. In classrooms, students have pressed into primary texts and real-world projects until understanding became conviction. In chapel, worship and prayer have ignited fresh callings. In residence halls, late-night conversations have knit acquaintances into lifelong friends. On our athletic fields, teams have trained with discipline and joy — character first, victory a byproduct. We remain unapologetically committed to our mission: a Christ-centered university under the authority of Scripture, forming servant leaders through rigorous scholarship. Head and heart are not rivals here; they are companions. We study deeply so we can love well. We serve humbly so we can lead boldly. A visible sign of this momentum is our new turf soccer field (read more on p. 19). This is an investment in the whole student and a declaration that excellence matters in mind, body and spirit. Like the sail rising on a ship, it signals readiness, renewal and resolve to move forward with momentum and wind in our sails! Your prayers, generosity and belief in our mission made this possible — and it is already blessing students. To our alumni: thank you for carrying Bethel into every vocation and neighborhood. To our donors: your partnership fuels transformation of lives. To prospective students and families: you have to come see what God is doing here and imagine your place in it. We believe the same faithful God who carried Bethel through 78 years will continue to guide, provide and empower us for what lies ahead. As we honor the past and look to the future in this issue, we do so believing, “He who began a good work … will carry it on to completion” (Philippians 1:6). This is the time, now is the place, and you are the one to help us move forward — Together, With Christ at the Helm! 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 with 120+ programs. At Bethel you will find a community of nearly 1,140 learners. Our mission is to challenge the mind, enlarge the vision and equip students for lifeong service. To learn more, visit BethelUniversity.edu. PRESIDENT Dee McDonald, Ph.D. VICE PRESIDENT FOR ACADEMIC AFFAIRS Abson Joseph, Ph.D. VICE PRESIDENT FOR FINANCE & OPERATIONS, CFO Adam Banter, MBA VICE PRESIDENT FOR UNIVERSITY ADVANCEMENT Joel K. Johnson, Ph.D. 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 Emma Hogarth '24 CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Lissa (Grashorn) Diaz '07 Ken Fox Melyssa Geever ’23 Alexis Wildrick GRAPHIC DESIGNER Leena Thomas ‘25 PHOTOGRAPHERS Ana Sofia Duarte Mary Fashbaugh-Bean Szilvia Ferenczy GG Kokonaing Christi Nelson Mark Ridley Peter Ringenberg '03 Emily (Rodgers) Sherwood '99 Alexis Wildrick Josiah Young COVER PHOTO Peter Ringenberg ‘03 With gratitude and great expectation, Dr. Dee McDonald President The McDonald family: Maelee, Dee, Amanda and Ell.
TOUR TAKES CHOIR TO HAWAII For the first time in 20 years, Bethel University’s annual choir tour took students to Hawaii, where they ministered in churches, schools and a senior day center. 04 Nearly 40 years since he started coaching in 1987, former Head Men’s Basketball Coach Mike Lightfoot’s influence continues to impact a third generation of players through the coaches he mentored as students. 06 CAMPUS NEWS 07 FOUR DECADES OF IMPACT 09 ALUMNI 20 COVER: Dr. Dee McDonald is inaugurated as the ninth president of Bethel University in a service aimed to focus on Jesus and spark revival. Pictured left to right: Dr. Dee McDonald, Dr. Amanda McDonald and former president Dr. Steve Cramer. Read more on p. 14. 4 6 24 SPORTS 16 A LEGACY OF SUCCESS, BUILT ON RELATIONSHIPS GIVING BACK 13 RUNNING AFTER CHRIST Alumnus Bruce Faltynski ‘05, was led to Christ at Bethel through a teammate on his cross country team. He now serves as a Lieutenant in the Mishawaka Police Department, where he leads the Community Relations Unit. 24 3 SPRING 2026
4 BETHELUNIVERSITY.EDU/MAGAZINE TOUR TAKES CHOIR TO In May 2025, Bethel University’s choir tour took students to Hawaii for the first time in 20 years. This time, in addition to the choir, the Bethel Worship Collective and BU Voices came as well, allowing for flexibility to customize performances based on location. Throughout the 10-day trip, students performed for a senior day care, five churches and two public schools on the island of Kauai. They also had a chance to connect with site directors for BU-X (Bethel’s extension studies program) in Hawaii. “It was truly a beautiful time of building relationships and enjoying the beauty of Hawaii,” says Stephen Martin, D.C.M., associate professor and chair of Music and Theatre. “We are blessed with wonderful students here at Bethel who love to share the hope and love of Christ with everyone they meet.” Choir tour has been an annual Bethel tradition for decades, taking students across the country to places like Michigan, Florida, South Dakota and even Hawaii. (In June 2026, the choir will travel to New York City where they’ve been selected to sing in Carnegie Hall.) “As we were exploring possible destinations for the 2025 choir tour, we were reminded of the many Missionary Churches in Hawaii. Between all of the wonderful churches, pastors and schools who offered their support, the performance schedule came together quickly,” Martin says. Despite some major hiccups with flights, all 50 participants made it to Kauai safely. Through the tremendous generosity of Makanalani Camp, as well as Kalaheo Missionary Church, ensembles stayed in free housing throughout the entirety of the tour. They also were treated to a rest day and barbeque at the home of John and “Jungle Jen” Jenkins, a former missionary who has spoken in Bethel’s chapel several times. Director of Worship Arts Becki Graves reflects, “We were all floored and humbled by the beauty of Kauai and the people there. It was an honor to witness in the work God is doing on the island and meet so many people who hosted us so graciously. It left a mark on all of us.” One of the more impactful performances happened at Waimea Public Schools, where the Bethel students performed for about 150 students at the middle school. At noon, they had Bible club where the Bethel students got to witness 50 Hawaiian students gathering together to learn about God. Another memorable moment was singing at Kalahao Missionary Church on Mother’s Day, where their pastor shared a video celebrating BU-X graduate Erwin Cano ’25, who came to Bethel’s campus for commencement. Though Bethel students came to Hawaii to bless those they encountered, they left feeling blessed by the people who welcomed them with the “Aloha spirit.” “I saw Christ in Hawaii. He was there, alive in the people and especially in the children. He was in all the songs they sang and in every story they told,” says student Rafael Ferreira. The trip also provided the opportunity for students to persevere through adversity, lean on each other and do life together – experiences Martin sees as invaluable. “I think there may be more things students can learn about life in a single tour than in a year in the classroom,” he says. “How we work with people … relationships we build ... reach people who need God. We’re able to bring laughter, life and hope to another part of the world, experience travel and life together and make memories we’ll never forget.” BY: Lissa (Grashorn) Diaz ’07 Hawai i TOUR STOPS • Kauai Adult Day Care Center • Kauai Christian Fellowship • Waimea High School • Lihue Missionary Church (youth group) • Waimea Middle School (morning assembly + Bible club) • Kapa’a Missionary Church • Koloa Missionary Church • Kalaheo Missionary Church (Sunday morning on Mother’s Day)
5 SPRING 2026 “I saw Christ in Hawaii. He was there, alive in the people and especially in the children. He was in all the songs they sang and in every story they told.” – Rafael Ferreira (1) Rafael Ferreira with Waimea Middle School students. (2) Choir performance at Kalaheo Missionary Church on Mother's Day; Eliza Weatherton (soloist). (3) Choir performance at Kauai Adult Day Care Center. (4) Choir performance at Kauai Christian Fellowship. 1 2 3 4
When Mike Lightfoot ‘78 was the head coach of the Bethel University men’s basketball team, he had a simple saying for his players. “I don’t have a guy for four years, I have him for 40.” So with that belief, it’s not a big surprise to see that 39 of Lightfoot’s former players are currently involved in coaching basketball, following in the footsteps of their former coach, as Lightfoot once did for his own Bethel coach, Homer Drew. “It’s something that really started with Homer because a lot of guys wanted to be like coach Drew,” Lightfoot admits. “It’s just a thrill to see guys I coached impacting schools and churches. It makes me feel good to know I played a small role in their career.” Two of those former Pilots won state championships while coaching in Indiana. Mark Galloway ‘96 led Culver Academy to a title, while Jason Groves ‘98 did the same at Triton. And of course, Jody Martinez ‘90 won six NCCAA titles as the head women’s coach at Bethel after playing for Lightfoot at both Mishawaka Marian High School and then at Bethel. A total of five Bethel graduates — Galloway, Groves, Jack Edison ‘67, Pete Smith ‘83 and Travis Hannah ‘96 — have won state basketball titles in Indiana. “For a little Christian school, that’s a pretty amazing statistic,” Lightfoot says. Two of Lightfoot’s former players coach less than 20 miles from campus. Barak Coolman ‘00 is at Penn High School in Mishawaka, while Michael Edison ‘99 is at LaVille High School in Lakeville. Both admit to learning a lot as a coach and a man, from Lightfoot. “The biggest thing I’ve carried forward from Coach Lightfoot is his emphasis on relationships — investing in the player as a person, not just a basketball player,” Coolman says. “Coach Lightfoot taught me to show my players how much I care about and believe in them, and to focus on developing deep, meaningful connections. I would not be the man or the coach I am today without the time I spent with Coach Lightfoot and the relationship we built.” Edison, who helped the Pilots win two NAIA national titles, talked about bringing Lightfoot’s passion to his own coaching. “Coach Lightfoot was an extremely passionate coach,” Edison says. “He never did anything halfheartedly, but rather gave it his all every single day. Coach always impressed me with the way he prepared for games and his commitment to excellence in everything he did.” Edison also spoke on the influence Lightfoot has had on his life. “Coach has been a tremendous influence,” Edison says. “He is someone I can reach out and talk to if I need to. He cares about people at a deep level. He is an amazing man who has had a huge impact on so many former players. If I can have half of the impact on people that he has had then I will consider myself successful!” Now, nearly 40 years since he started coaching in 1987, Lightfoot’s influence continues to impact a third generation of players through the coaches he mentored as students. BY: Ken Fox A LEGACY OF SUCCESS, BUILT ON RELATIONSHIPS Top Left: Lightfoot huddles with his team, including Michael Edison #10, who would go on to coach at LaVille High School. Top Right: Lightfoot coaches the 2017 team on the day the basketball court in Gates Gymnasium was named “Mike Lightfoot Court.” Bottom Left: Jody Martinez, who played under Lightfoot, is shown coaching Bethel University Women’s Basketball. Above: Lightfoot hugs Caleb Oetjen ‘17, who now coaches for Arizona Christian University. 6 BETHELUNIVERSITY.EDU/MAGAZINE
Author Jerry B. Jenkins to Speak at Commencement Bethel University is excited to welcome New York Times bestselling author Jerry B. Jenkins as the speaker for its 79th Commencement Ceremony on Saturday, May 2, 2026. Author of the "Left Behind" novel series and "The Chosen" novels (based on the TV series created by his son Dallas Jenkins), Jenkins has made a significant impact on Christian literature through his extensive body of work, which includes more than 200 books and 73 million+ copies sold. Sophomore Awarded “Realizing the Dream” Scholarship from ICI Natalie Eash, a sophomore art education major from Middlebury, Ind., and a member of the cheer team, received a “Realizing the Dream” scholarship from Independent Colleges of Indiana (ICI). Inspired by her middle school art teacher, she dreams of one day being an art teacher herself. Made possible by a grant from Lilly Endowment Inc., the scholarship program annually recognizes first-generation college students from ICI colleges and universities. Students are selected for the $5,000 awards for outstanding achievement as they successfully advance toward completing their bachelor’s degrees. Bethel Celebrates Former Governor Otis R. Bowen Bethel University celebrated the birthday of former Governor of Indiana Dr. Otis R. Bowen at the “Bowen Birthday Bash” on February 26, 2026 in the Bowen Museum, located in the Otis and Elizabeth Bowen Library building on Bethel’s campus. The Bowen Museum 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). This year, new artifacts were added from Dr. Bowen’s time as a member of the Army Medical Corps in World War II. Dr. Bowen passed away on May 4, 2013; this year would have marked his 108th birthday. Bethel Holds Career Fair on Campus (1) On February 13, 2026, representatives from more than 40 employers in a variety of industries — including 1st Source Bank, the City of Mishawaka, Life Action Ministries, Lake City Bank, nine local school systems and many others — gathered to talk to students about available jobs and internships. The career fair was open to traditional, adult and graduate students who attend Bethel, as well as Bethel alumni. Participants had the opportunity to experience mock interviews, have their resumes reviewed and take professional headshots. Bethel Hosts Fifth-Annual Starting Small Summit (2) Bethel University hosted the fifth-annual Starting Small Summit on February 11, 2026. Moderated by Bethel business alumnus Cameron Nagle ’22, founder and host of "Starting Small Podcast," the Starting Small Summit provided the South Bend/Mishawaka community with an opportunity to learn from high-profile entrepreneurs from around the nation. This year’s summit featured entrepreneurial stories from Jamie Schmidt, founder of Schmidt’s Naturals; Sam Rockwell, co-founder and CEO of Happi Co.,; Cordell Brodis, co-founder and creative director of Dr. Bombay’s Ice Cream; and Shawn D. Nelson, founder and CEO of Lovesac. CAMPUS LIFE CAMPUS NEWS 2 1 7 SPRING 2026
Bethel Holds 11th Annual ReFuel Conference Ten local churches and Bethel University partnered together to offer, “ReFuel,” a two-day conference for church worship teams and leaders, featuring Kim Walker-Smith, Vertical Worship and Scot Longyear. The event was held January 23-24, 2026 on Bethel’s campus. The conference, now in its 11th year, is a joint effort coordinated by staff from Nappanee Missionary Church, First Baptist Church of Elkhart, Gospel City Church, Wakarusa Missionary Church, Maple City Chapel, Restor Church, That Downtown Church, Grace Community Church and St. Mark Missionary Church. New K-12, Higher Education Partnership Creates Seamless Transfer Pathway Bethel University is pleased to partner with the Indiana Department of Education on a new faith-based academic pathway for high school students to complete diploma requirements while earning up to 30 transferable college credits. The Professional Pathway credential, announced October 14, 2025, by Indiana Secretary of Education Dr. Katie Jenner, expands early college opportunities and provides students with additional options to complete their first year of college while still in high school. This credential was created in partnership with six Council for Christian Colleges and Universities (CCCU) institutions: Bethel University, Anderson University, Grace College, Huntington University, Indiana Wesleyan University and Taylor University. Bethel Hosts Baseball Classic to Benefit Troop Town On October 7, 2025, Bethel Kinesiology’s Administration and Organization Class, taught by Professor and Associate Head Baseball Coach Kiel Boynton, hosted the secondannual Bethel Baseball Classic. The event was held at Four Winds Field at Coveleski Stadium, as the Pilots took on the local Indiana University South Bend Titans. Half of all ticket sales benefited Mishawaka Troop Town, an organization that provides housing to local homeless Military Veterans. Bethel Partners with Lake City Bank for 36th-Annual Service Day (3) Bethel University’s 36th annual campus-wide Service Day took place on September 30, 2025, sponsored by Lake City Bank. Bethel students, faculty and staff came together to serve throughout the Michiana community. Just a few of the locations served included Center for the Homeless, Family Justice Center, Food Bank of Northern Indiana, Hello Gorgeous!, Humane Society of St. Joseph County, Hubbard Hill Retirement Community, Lifeline Youth Services, Ronald McDonald House of Michiana and Unity Gardens, among others. Missionary Church Day at Bethel and Annual Pastor's Prayer Walk (4) To open the school year, more than 80 Missionary Church pastors gathered for Missionary Church Day at Bethel, starting with the 13th-annual Pastor’s Prayer Walk. This was the largest pastor’s prayer walk in Bethel history! After breaking into groups and covering campus in prayer, pastors heard a chapel message from Rev. Rodney Arnold, president of the Missionary Church, followed by lunch and the opportunity to attend select classes. Continued from p. 7 3 4 Learn more at BethelUniversity.edu/News 8 BETHELUNIVERSITY.EDU/MAGAZINE
9 SPRING 2026 Chances are, if you attended Bethel between 1988 and 2026, you had classes with Dr. Norm Spivey. A professor of Psychology for 38 years, Spivey has taught psychology, general education classes, electives and block courses to hundreds of students throughout his time at Bethel. Spivey started his career by majoring in psychology and then obtaining his teaching certificate to teach high school, but quickly realized he did not enjoy the public school setting. He spent a few years working toward his master’s and doctorate degrees and then, for his very first higher education position, he came to Bethel in 1988. Initially, Spivey had no plans to stay at Bethel nearly four decades, but over time, a commitment to the students and his fellow colleagues began to develop, and he’s been here ever since. During the tougher times, Spivey says a desire to serve the students kept him going. “The students are my joy and motivation,” he says, noting that Bethel students are different than kids he often worked with in public schools. “They want to be here, and they’re open to learning.” He recalls feeling almost like a parent to students he got to know. He has loved guiding them on their path to success not only academically, but in their personal lives as well. Bethel gives professors the opportunity to walk with students as they develop as leaders and grow in their faith, which was part of the reason his own two children attended Bethel. “Bethel gave them a great experience.” He recalls, “They met their wives here and went on to lead happy and successful lives, dedicated to the Lord.” You might think teaching in a scientific field like psychology could be challenging at a school where the professors teach from a Christian perspective, but Dr. Spivey says it’s necessary. “How could you not?” He asks. “If you take God out of how we learn about ourselves, you miss so much of who we are and who we are meant to be.” As evidenced by 38 years in the classroom, Spivey has loved teaching. If he could leave one piece of advice for the students that will come after him, he says, “Be like Peter [about whom God said ‘on this Rock I will build my church’]. Follow God’s path. Turn it all over to Him and you will have tremendous joy, impact and treasure.” FOUR DECADES OF IMPACT BY: Melyssa Geever ’23 “If you take God out of how we learn about ourselves, you miss so much of who we are and who we are meant to be." – Dr. Norm Spivey Above: Norm Spivey is pictured through the decades.
10 BETHELUNIVERSITY.EDU/MAGAZINE BETHEL PRESENTS: “LITTLE WOMEN, THE BROADWAY MUSICAL” The Bethel University Department of Music and Theatre presented, “Little Women, the Broadway Musical,” book by Allan Knee, lyrics by Mindi Dickstein and music by Jason Howland, based on the novel by Louisa May Alcott. Performances were held March 20, 21, 27 and 28, 2026, in the Everest-Rohrer Fine Arts Center – Auditorium. BETHEL HOLDS FOURTH ANNUAL “FESTIVAL OF JAZZ” Throughout the day on February 21, 2026, five area high school jazz bands, including Mishawaka, Elkhart, Jimtown, Adams and Elkhart Christian Academy, gathered to perform, learn and improvise with some of the greatest professionals around. Guest artists/clinicians included Todd Williams, saxophone; Jay Jehl, trombone; Matthew Anklan, trumpet; and Rafael Chavez, guitar. The day culminated with the Jim Pickley Memorial Concert, featuring Truth in Jazz, guest clinicians and the top band from the festival. BETHEL PROFESSOR BRINGS TWO PIANO SPECTACLE TO CAMPUS Pianists Dr. Siwon Kim (Bethel University) and Dr. Hyemin Kim (Interlochen Arts Academy) joined together for an exceptional evening of duo-piano artistry on February 13, 2026. The program featured the evocative drama of Grieg’s “Peer Gynt Suite,” the sparkling wit of Saint-Saëns’s “The Carnival of the Animals” and the imaginative charm of Bolcom’s “The Garden of Eden.” BETHEL HOSTS CHRISTMAS CONCERT, “YOUR PEACE WILL MAKE US ONE” The Bethel University Music Department presented its annual Christmas concert, “Your Peace Will Make Us One,” December 5 and 6, 2025. The annual welcome to the Christmas season featured the Chamber Orchestra, Percussion Ensemble, Wind Ensemble, Jazz Ensemble, Worship Collective, BU Voices and University Choir. BETHEL PRESENTS: “INTO THE WOODS” The Bethel University Department of Music and Theatre presented, “Into the Woods,” with music and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim, book by James Lapine; originally directed on Broadway by James Lapine; orchestrations by Jonathan Tunick. Performances were held November 7, 8, 14 and 15, 2025, featuring unforgettable songs, twists on classic tales and a story that was as funny as it was moving. The Arts Into the Woods Your Peace Will Make Us One
Bethel Welcomes New Athletic Director Jason Lewkowicz, (1) was named Athletic Director for the Bethel Pilots, beginning his tenure July 1, 2025. Lewkowicz brings a wealth of experience to the role and has an extensive background in Christian higher education, most recently at Montreat College in Montreat, North Carolina. He follows former Athletic Director Tony Natali, who retired in May 2025 after 26 years of service to Bethel. Read more at BethelUniversity.edu/Lewkowicz. Bethel Welcomes New Vice Presidents Adam Banter, MBA, (2) was named Vice President for Finance & Operations and CFO at Bethel University, and began his tenure August 25, 2025. Banter is a strategic and mission-driven leader with 20+ years of experience in banking, finance, operations, higher education, real estate and business ownership. He is committed to Christ-centered service, institutional growth and the responsible stewardship of resources in support of academic and student success. Read his full release at BethelUniversity.edu/Banter. Joel K. Johnson, Ph.D., (3) was named Vice President for University Advancement and began his tenure September 8, 2025. Johnson is a mission-driven advancement executive with 21 years of experience in Christian higher education, specializing in major gifts, donor engagement and strategic campaign leadership. He most recently served as Director of Advancement at the Institute for Worship Studies in Jacksonville, Fla. Read the full release at BethelUniversity.edu/Johnson. Bethel Welcomes New Professors in STEM Sean McGuinness, Ph.D., (4) assistant professor of physics, brings a dynamic blend of research, teaching and national service experience to Bethel. Most recently a professor at Ivy Tech Community College, McGuinness also spent three years with the National Nuclear Security Agency (NNSA) after earning his Ph.D. and M.S. in Physics from the University of Notre Dame, where his research focused on medical applications of low-energy nuclear physics. Cody A. Ruiz, Ph.D., (5) assistant professor of biology, brings a strong interdisciplinary background in molecular biology and anthropology to the classroom. He most recently taught genetics and general biology as an adjunct professor at Bethel and has served as a research assistant in the Molecular Anthropology Lab at Kent State University since 2015. He earned his Ph.D. in Cell and Molecular Biology at Kent State, an M.A. in Biological Anthropology from Kent State and a B.S. in Biological Sciences and Anthropology from the University of Notre Dame. Heather Hostetler, CNM, (6) joins Bethel University as an assistant professor of nursing, bringing over two decades of experience in nursing, women’s health and maternity care. A certified nurse midwife since 2014, she has served with Beacon Medical Group OB/GYN. Hostetler is also a proud Bethel alumna, having earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 2002 before completing her Master of Science in Nursing, with a focus in Nurse Midwifery, at Frontier Nursing University in 2014. Bethel Welcomes New Admission Leadership James Savannah '24, '25, (7) is a two-time Bethel graduate, receiving both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Bethel. He began as director of admission February 23, 2026. Savannah comes to Bethel with a distinctive background in university admissions, organizational leadership, financial services and community-focused media. He most recently served as a high-performing admission counselor at Trine University in Angola, Ind., where he oversaw a geographic territory, managing inquiries, developing partnerships and guiding prospective students from initial contact through enrollment. Bethel Awarded NetVUE Grant for Faculty/Staff Development Bethel University has been awarded a professional development grant through NetVUE (Network for Vocation in Undergraduate Education), a program run by the Council of Independent Colleges (CIC). This $24,890 grant will go toward faculty and staff professional development, providing opportunities for collaboration, resources and trainings, an extended faculty retreat and more. This is a one-year grant that will run from July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2026. CAMPUS LIFE FACULTY & STAFF NEWS 2 3 4 5 6 7 1 11 SPRING 2026
TRAINING COACHING NETWORKING CREDENTIALING RESOURCING FUNDING MULTIPLYING DISCIPLES, CHURCHES & NETWORKS TO THE 4TH GENERATION GOD GAVE YOU A VISION WE WANT TO SEE IT COME TO LIFE THE U.S. MINISTRIES OF THE MISSIONARY CHURCH GENERATE.ORG WE EQUIP CHURCHES & CHURCH PLANTERS Estepp Publishes Article in Athletic Journal Mary Estepp, (8) assistant professor of kinesiology, contributed to an article published in the Journal of Issues in Intercollegiate Athletics. The article, “NCAA DI athletic trainers’ perception and use of psychological techniques during sport injury rehabilitation,” was a finalist for the Most Outstanding Article Award with the journal. Retirements Patti Fisher, (9) retired in October 2025 after serving for nearly 13 years as senior director of information technology. April Hart, (10) associate professor of nursing, will retire after 24 years of preparing the next generation of nurses at Bethel. Profé Nan Hussey, Ph.D., (11) associate professor of Spanish and German, will retire after 15 years of service. Terry Linhart, Ph.D., (12) associate vice president for adult, graduate & extension studies, will retire from higher education at the end of the academic year, after 27 years of dedicated service to Bethel. Norm Spivey, Ph.D., (13) professor of psychology, will retire after dedicating 38 years of service to Bethel. Miriam Wertz, (14) retired in December 2025 after 22 years of service dedicated to Bethel, most recently as executive assistant to the president. Continued from p. 11 8 9 10 12 11 13 14
13 SPRING 2026 Bowen Library, the Nameless Café, Sufficient Grounds, the Acorn, Shiloh Prayer Chapel, the slab — Bethel University has always had common places for students to gather, work, play and eat. These locations become the background for significant parts of students’ lives and are integral to the Bethel experience. In the fall of 2025, a significant remodel was completed in Sufficient Grounds Café and Campus Store. The campus store part of the building was built in the 1990s, with the coffee shop expansion built in 2013. Both were due for a much-needed refresh, but expenses above and beyond operations can often be a barrier for projects like this. However, thanks to a group of generous alumni, enough funds were raised to complete the project. One alumnus, Jim Ridenour ’68, made his gift after being impressed by how much Bethel’s new president, Dr. Dee McDonald, cared about taking care of students. He could by no means cover the entire project cost, but as a retired Missionary Church pastor, he gave what he could to support Bethel in a clear area of need. His gift, combined with many others who gave what they could, made it possible to complete this project in just a few months. “When everybody gives a little, we can make a big difference,” Ridenour says. The newly renovated space includes separate recreational and study spaces, upgrades to the campus store and new student lounges, while the café now offers fresh-made bowls and healthy grab-and-go options alongside Starbucks coffee. The space continues to be a central hub for students and faculty to meet, study and fellowship, and features accent walls of Bethel blue, new flooring, a fireplace and updated furniture. A central part of Bethel’s mission is to prepare students academically and spiritually to lead like Christ throughout their lives. Gifts made to special projects like this help Bethel cultivate spaces for things like mentoring, Bible studies and personal growth to happen. Donations of any size make a difference in achieving these goals. Pictured: During a grand reopening celebration, students, faculty and staff got a peek at the Sufficient Grounds upgrades. If you would like to contribute to critical campus projects, follow the QR code or visit BethelUniversity.edu/Give. ONE GIFT BIG makes a Difference SUFFICIENT GROUNDS REMODEL 2026 BY: Melyssa Geever ’23
14 BETHELUNIVERSITY.EDU/MAGAZINE In a meaningful ceremony filled with worship, Dr. Dee McDonald was inaugurated as the ninth president of Bethel University. On Friday, November 14, 2025, during the normal chapel time, faculty, staff, students, delegates and honored guests gathered to welcome McDonald in a celebration that aimed to spark revival. It opened with a powerful ballad, “Lord, You’re Holy,” followed by special music with the University Choir: “Goodness of God” and “More than Able.” “We’ve been to church!” former Bethel President Dr. Steve Cramer ’75 exclaimed as he took the stage for the welcome. He spoke of Bethel being founded on and sustained by faith over 78 years, earning the nickname “the Miracle on McKinley.” “Now Dr. McDonald, we know that in the days to come, you will be upheld in prayer, empowering that same vibrant faith [that founded Bethel] as you seek to move Bethel beyond the Miracle on McKinley and become the Legacy on Logan,” Cramer said. Rev. LaMorris Crawford, chaplain of the Carolina Panthers NFL team, gave the inaugural address: “You are the one. This is HONORING THE Past. LOOKING TO THE Future. BY: Lissa (Grashorn) Diaz ’07 Dr. Dee McDonald began as Bethel’s ninth president on July 1, 2025. He is in his 20th year of leadership in Christian higher education, previously serving as Vice President for Enrollment and Marketing at Crown College in St. Bonifacius, Minn. He has a history of strong enrollment growth and building high-performing teams at the four CCCU (Council for Christian Colleges & Universities) institutions he’s served (in addition to Crown, Southeastern University, North Central University and Olivet Nazarene University). He earned a Ph.D. in Organizational Leadership from Southeastern University, studying the relationship between authentic leadership, authentic followership and organizational commitment within Christian higher education; an MBA from Olivet Nazarene University; and a Bachelor of Science degree in Social Science Education, also from Olivet. He and his wife, Dr. Amanda McDonald, have two children, Ell and Maelee. Learn more at BethelUniversity.edu/McDonald. the inauguration of dr. dee mcdonald ABOUT PRESIDENT MCDONALD
15 SPRING 2026 (1) McDonald (second from right) with former Bethel presidents, from left, Dr. Steve Cramer, Dr. Barb Bellefeuille and Dr. Gregg Chenoweth. (2) After the luncheon, the McDonalds greeted students, faculty and staff at an afternoon tea, where attendees got to take home a souvenir tea cup and saucer, donated by alumnus Jeff Ziegler ’80. (3) McDonald greets his son, Ell, at the inauguration. (4) The McDonalds give students high-fives after the ceremony. (5) LaMorris and Megan Crawford served as the McDonalds’ prayer partners during their discernment process. They are pictured at the luncheon. (6) LaMorris Crawford, chaplain for the Carolina Panthers NFL team, gives the inaugural address. (7) Dr. Emile Hawkins prays over the McDonalds, along with the platform party, during the inauguration ceremony. (8) McDonald with daughter Maelee, who opened the luncheon in prayer. the place. And now is the time.” He shared a message focused on vision and purpose found in Christ. McDonald specifically chose Crawford to speak on his behalf rather than give the address himself. “From my initial appointment as president, my wife Amanda and I felt compelled to have the inauguration be about revival and point people to Jesus,” McDonald explains. “LaMorris and his wife Megan were our prayer partners through the whole discernment process, and God prompted us that he was the person He wanted to speak. I wanted to draw the attention to Jesus where it should be, which fits with Bethel’s motto – with Christ at the Helm.” The ceremony included friends and colleagues from McDonald’s life and work. Dr. Don Reddick, Rev. Jasper Taylor and Sharon Norman provided the music; the invocation and benediction were given by Rev. Kevin Jack; the ethos of the president was given by Dr. Andrew Denton (president, Crown College) and Dr. Simone Twibell (associate professor, Olivet Nazarene University); and the dedicatory prayer was given by Dr. Emile Hawkins (professor, Southeastern University). Rev. Bill Hossler provided greetings from the Missionary Church; Bethel Alumni Board Chair Octavian Sayumwe ’18 provided greetings from the alumni; and Bethel Vice President for Spiritual Life and University Affairs Dr. Shawn Holtgren led the university hymn, “To God Be the Glory.” Following the ceremony, McDonald addressed guests at a luncheon. “My prayer is that Bethel would thrive in pointing people to Jesus. My vision is for Bethel to thrive financially and feel the manifest presence of Jesus. I want to see God do something new and different … something only He can do.” McDonald’s inauguration was part of Homecoming Weekend, which included a number of activities for alumni and friends: a historic presentation in Taylor Memorial Log Chapel, afternoon tea, character dinner, musical “Into the Woods,” and Hoops and Hot Dogs during the men’s and women’s basketball games. See more on p. 21. 1 6 2 3 4 8 7 5
16 BETHELUNIVERSITY.EDU/MAGAZINE WOMEN’S CROSS COUNTRY Junior Anna Enderle represented the Women’s Cross Country program at NAIA Nationals, placing 87th in a field of 331 athletes for the 6K event. The junior also placed 15th at the Crossroads League Championship for the 6K. MEN’S CROSS COUNTRY The Bethel Men’s Cross Country team won its home Bethel Invite for the first time in program history on October 10. Senior Aaron Douglass won the 6K race with a personal best time of 26:19.6 to beat out the second and third place finishers from Southwestern Michigan College. WOMEN’S SOCCER The Pilots advanced to the NCCAA D1 National Tournament, defeating Warner University, University of Northwestern, Asbury University, and Southwestern Christian University to claim the 2025 National Championship Title. Leena Thomas ’25 was recognized as the Tournament’s Most Outstanding Player and SELECT Golden Ball Award Winner. Seniors Karly Harfouche and Thomas, and graduate student Grace Beck '24, were named to the All-Tournament Team, with Harfouche and Thomas achieving NCCAA All-American First Team status. MEN’S SOCCER Men’s Soccer was ranked in every NAIA Top 25 Coaches’ Poll this season, ranking No. 3 in the nation October 15. In the Crossroads League, they won both the regular season title and the tournament title (with a 1-0 win over No. 20 Grace College in double overtime). After defeating Olivet Nazarene 2-0 in the NAIA Second Round on Morey Field, the Pilots fell 1-0 to Indiana Tech in the NAIA Round of 16 at the Orange Beach Sportsplex. Graduate forward Julian Vargas Talamantes won Crossroads League Player of the Year, receiving NAIA Second-Team AllAmerican recognition with graduate student Eduardo Pedroza and junior Fernando Laserna. Freshman goalkeeper Maarten Schouten was named to the NAIA All-American First Team. MEN'S BOWLING Freshman Zachary Morrison was named the Crossroads League Men’s Bowler of the Week twice in his first season (Oct. 13-19, Jan. 19-25). Morrison placed 20th at the first Ohio Bowling Conference (OBC) Tournament on October 18, and finished 16th at the third OBC Tournament on January 22. WOMEN’S BOWLING Junior Alexandra Burkholder was named the Crossroads League Women’s Bowler of the Week (Oct. 13-19) for her performance at the first Ohio Bowling Conference Tournament in Columbus, Ohio. She placed ninth out of 72 varsity bowlers. WOMEN’S GOLF The Pilots won their fourth NCCAA Championship Title in five years (2025, 2023, 2022, 2021) on October 22 at the Hammock Beach Resort’s Conservatory Course (Palm Coast, Fla.). Senior Selah Unwin was awarded the Dan & Kelly Wood Award, an NCCAA honor presented to a student-athlete who demonstrates the values of love, integrity, faith and excellence. The Pilots were ranked No. 24 in the nation in the NAIA Preseason Rating (Aug. 22) and took home three All-American finishes (freshman Ellie Webster, sophomore Izabela Aigner, and Unwin). MEN'S GOLF The Bethel men's golf team earned an at-large bid to the NCCAA Nationals where junior Earl Williams and freshman Amaury Wouters both earned a spot on the All-American team. Williams shattered the school record for 36- and 54-hole scoring at the Pretty Lake Intercollegiate, shooting 67-69-67, finishing 13 under par and winning by 9 shots. WOMEN’S VOLLEYBALL The Pilots defeated four NAIA-ranked teams in the 2025 regular season, including No. 8 IU Kokomo (Aug. 20), No. 15 Aquinas College (Aug. 29), No. 15 Mount Vernon (Sept. 3), No. 23 Spring Arbor (Sept. 24), and No. 21 Taylor (Oct. 1), before making an NCCAA D1 Tournament Run. SPORTS UPDATES Continued on p. 18. Izabela Aigner Men's Swim & Dive Anna Enderle #5 Austin Cripe #15 Hailey Biedenbach Men’s Soccer
17 SPRING 2026 WOMEN’S TENNIS MAKES PROGRAM HISTORY WITH ITA NATIONALS APPEARANCE Paola Lameda Szilvi Ferenczy After winning both the Crossroads League Regular Season and Tournament Titles in the 2024-25 year, graduate student Szilvi Ferenczy teamed up with freshman Paola Lameda to make the program’s first doubles appearance at the 2025 Intercollegiate Tennis Association Nationals Cup in October. “It was an honor to have Bethel represented at the ITA Nationals,” says Lameda. “It was a defining moment for our program and gives us a lot of confidence knowing we can compete with the best of the best.” In the regional quarterfinal on September 26, Ferenczy and Lameda defeated Missouri Baptist’s Yvonne Shannon and Melissa Jangarasheva 8-3 before defeating Mariana Azevedo and Lucia Rubio, also from Missouri Baptist, 8-1 in the semifinal. On September 27, the Pilots punched their ticket to ITA Nationals with a 6-4, 7-6(2) victory over Goshen’s Blanka Bodo and Maria Clara Fonte. In the first round of nationals, Ferenczy and Lameda faced Martina Cortal and Mayra Gisone of Lindsey Wilson University for a tough 6-1, 6-2 loss. The Pilots then faced Olivia Alcala and Laia Berne of Tennessee Wesleyan University for a competitive matchup, but fell 6-4, 6-3. The ITA Cup features athletes from NCAA, NAIA and JUCO institutions, and it was a monumental accomplishment for the Pilots to represent Bethel on the national stage. Head Coach Jamal Henry shares, “We’ve had a lot of firsts over the last year, and having our first group of players in Szilvi and Paola qualify for the ITA Nationals was another great accomplishment. These ladies represented Bethel, our program and themselves tremendously.” He continued, “I couldn’t be any more happy for them. The entire experience was such a great accomplishment and a great springboard for our upcoming conference season ... and quest to get back to the NAIA Nationals in May.” Prior to the ITA Tournament, Ferenczy and Lameda achieved a a doubles win over Charlie Stirling and Erin Jacobs, of Judson University. The Pilots won 6-3 on September 30 at Ward Baker Park. Ferenczy has been a staple for the team, earning recognition on the 2024 Crossroads League All-League Team, and earning a win over Judson’s No. 1 Seed, Charlie Stirling. The sky is the limit for this duo and the Bethel Pilots, who faced their first Crossroads League opponent, Taylor University, on March 21. BY: Alexis Wildrick
18 BETHELUNIVERSITY.EDU/MAGAZINE For more sports updates and the latest stats, visit the official home of Bethel Pilots at BUpilots.com For more sports updates and the latest stats, visit the official home of Bethel Pilots at BUpilots.com SPORTS UPDATES Mariah Claywell Continued from p. 16 WOMEN’S SWIM & DIVE The Bethel Pilots earned their second consecutive KCAC Conference Championship on February 7, before showcasing a top ten finish (sixth out of 23 teams) at the NAIA National Swimming and Diving Championships, hosted by Bethel at Elkhart Health and Aquatics. Bethel had a plethora of All-American finishes, including freshman Ella Wardle; sophomores Avery Woods, Ella Sherwood, Eliza Nuet and Sarah Graves; juniors Teagan Risher, Aixa Recchioni, Makalynn VanEerden and Lizzie Williams; and senior Jaylyn Harrison. Senior Isabela Nuet was named a Champion of Character at the KCAC Conference Championship, while sophomore Sarah Graves received Champion of Character recognition at NAIA Nationals. MEN’S SWIM & DIVE Senior Owen Fleck highlighted the Bethel Men’s Swim & Dive Team at NAIA Nationals, achieving All-American status in both the 3M (3rd Place) and 1M Dives (4th Place). Fleck was also named a Champion of Character at the KCAC Conference Championship. Freshman Jorge Souto Vilas was named the KCAC Swimmer of the Week on February 3. WOMEN’S INDOOR TRACK AND FIELD The Women’s Indoor Track & Field team was highlighted by junior Gabbi Zeilenga and seniors Sophia Sumer and Alecia Parker, who each qualified for the NAIA Indoor National Championships. Zeilenga was named an NAIA All-American in the pole vault (2nd place) and long jump events (7th place), while Parker finished top 15 in the nation for the shotput, and Sumer finished top 20 in the nation for the pole vault. As a team, the Pilots finished runner-up at the 2026 Indoor Track & Field NCCAA National Championship, with Zeilenga earning Field Athlete of the Meet. MEN’S INDOOR TRACK AND FIELD At the NAIA Indoor National Track & Field Championships, freshman James Gill placed seventh in the 200m Dash with a time of 21.93 seconds for an All-American Title. A few weeks prior at NCCAA Indoor Nationals, sophomore Lamarr Williams set a new NCCAA Championship meet record in the 60m Dash with a time of 6.77 seconds. WOMEN’S BASKETBALL The Bethel Women’s Basketball Team had an incredible season from beginning to end. The Pilots began their season with a 5-0 start, a feat not accomplished since 2007-2008, and concluded their season with their first NAIA Tournament appearance since 2013 and their first NCCAA Tournament appearance since 2011. The Pilots finished runner-up at the NCCAA National Tournament, and took home multiple NCCAA North Central Region awards after returning home, including Coach of the Year (Scott Polsgrove), Player of the Year (sophomore Isabel Scales), First Team Recognition (sophomore Olivia Nickerson), and Second Team Recognition (seniors Mariah Claywell and Jazmyn Smith). MEN’S BASKETBALL The Bethel Pilots have been ranked in every NAIA Top 25 Coaches’ Poll, with their highest ranking at No. 3 on January 14. The Pilots made an impressive NAIA National run, defeating Life University 75-62 in the first round before falling 85-68 to Georgetown College in the second round. Ranked as the No. 1 NCCAA Tournament Seed, the Pilots took home a top-five finish in the NCCAA National Tournament after defeating Ohio Christian University (86-83) and Clinton College (83-66). Senior Al Peciulis received the NCCAA’s Pete Maravich Award, a Christian character award given to a player who exemplifies love, integrity, faith and excellence. Junior Austin Cripe was named the NCCAA North Central Region Player of the Year and Head Coach Steve Drabyn took home the NCCAA North Central Region Coach of the Year Award. COMPETITIVE CHEER The Bethel Pilots expanded the competitive cheer program to include their first Intermediate Team in school history. The Advanced Team took home a top-five finish at the Crossroads League Championship, with senior Andrew Greene (Tumbler First Team, Back Spot Honorable Mention), senior Payton Elder (Base and Tumbler Honorable Mention), junior Paige Howlerda (Base Honorable Mention), freshman Allison Hoyt (Flyer Honorable Mention), junior Lilee Stetzel (Flyer Honorable Mention) all receiving Crossroads League recognition. - Alexis Wildrick
Morey – Building for More • Excavate, lay foundation and drainage, finish design work, produce and install artificial turf field • Build new press box, benches and fencing surrounding the field • Continue hosting conference and national tournaments on an elite surface PHASE 1 INVESTMENT $1 MILLION Lead Gift Honors Family Legacy This summer, Bethel University will begin construction on an exciting new project: replacing the grass surface of Morey Field with artificial turf. Bethel’s current grass field has long had problems with irrigation, flooding and uneven surfaces, limiting the ability to host home games and tournament events. The new field will be used for our National Champion Men’s and Women’s Soccer programs and Women’s Lacrosse program. This $1 million project is phase one of a three-phase plan to expand Bethel’s athletic facilities. Bethel has already secured a grant that will greatly reduce the cost of the turf material by 70%. During a vision-casting dinner in February with men’s and women’s soccer alumni and friends, several lead gifts were secured, raising $455,250 that evening, with a total of $505,300 raised as of late March. A significant lead gift came from Andrew ’83 and Cindy Carpenter ’81, in honor of the Carpenter family, whose lives have been touched by Bethel through three generations. Andrew’s father, Charles Carpenter, graduated from Bethel in 1957. His older brothers Mark ’81 and John ’80, and twin brother Aaron ’83, also graduated from Bethel, as well as three of his four children, nieces and nephews, and sisters-in-law Laurie ’81 and Sandi ’81. “Bethel has played such a significant role in the Carpenter family. It has shaped all of us — we had a wonderful experience there and grew in our faith as a result of that environment,” Andrew Capenter says. Soccer runs in the family, too. Growing up on the mission field in Brazil, Andrew and his brothers fell in love with soccer, which they refer to as “the beautiful game,” and Andrew and Aaron played alongside brother John when they BY: Lissa (Grashorn) Diaz ’07 were freshman and John was a senior at Bethel. The next generation of soccer players, Andrew’s sons, Nate ’07, Eric ’09 and Drew ’14, also played at Bethel (their son Lucas played for a different school); nephew Caleb Morris ’16 played too. Andrew expects to see his grandchildren on the turf one day. “One of the biggest reasons we gave is the soccer program is literally changing lives for Christ,” Andrew Carpenter says. “The way [Head Coach] Thiago is mentoring these young men … discipling them … many are serving God in multiple ways. We are honored to be a part of this. The Carpenters want to say thank you to Bethel for the impact it’s had on our family over the years.” The new turf field will strengthen Bethel’s recruiting and retention, expand opportunities for campus events and create a welcoming gathering place for families and the broader community for the next generation. See more about the Carpenter family at BethelUniversity.edu/Carpenter. The Andrew and Cindy Carpenter family BE A PART OF THE LEGACY! Give toward this project todayat BethelUniversity.edu/Morey. Left: The twins are pictured with their father at graduation in 1983. Above: Andrew Carpenter, center, with sons Nate and Eric on Morey Field. 19 SPRING 2026
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