21 SPRING 2026 Bryan Hammontree ’11, alternative programs principal at Elkhart Academy, has been named the recipient of Indiana Youth Institute’s D. Susan Wisely Youth Worker of the Year award. This award recognizes the outstanding contributions of youth workers across Indiana. Under Hammontree’s leadership, Elkhart Academy has been transformed into an innovative alternative school built on strong relationships, restorative practices and student-centered design. Hammontree has created programs that provide multiple pathways to success, including a middle school, high school and suspension program, ensuring that students with diverse needs have access to the right learning environments for them. This award is especially meaningful as Bryan attended this same alternative high school when he was younger. Dick ’74 and Carol Patterson ‘68 were honored with the Community Champions Award from the South Carolina Recreation and Parks Association for their work on the Vereen Memorial Historical Gardens Committee. Known for their unwavering dedication and spirit, the Pattersons have volunteered at the gardens for more than a decade. Often arriving before sunrise, they lead trail maintenance, share the park’s rich history with visitors, mentor new volunteers and so much more. 1 2 3 4 5 CONNECTION POINTS Rise ‘n Run 5K (2) On October 25, 2025, over 80 people participated in our fourth-annual Rise ‘n Run 5K! After the race, we enjoyed donuts from our sponsor, Rise ’n Roll Bakery, as well as coffee. It was a beautifully sweet morning for all! Homecoming: “Into the Woods” Dinner (3) and Hoops and Hot Dogs (4) We celebrated our Homecoming during the Inauguration Weekend. On November 14, 2025, we hosted an “Into the Woods” character dinner, featuring some of the main characters from the fall musical. November 15, was Hoops and Hot Dogs, where alumni enjoyed free admission and hot dogs during our men’s and women’s basketball games. Halftime included a hot dog eating contest with student Carter Hunt, Resident Director Trent Parmley, Athletic Director Jason Lewkowicz and Professor Dave Schmidt; Hunt was the victor. President’s Christmas Reception (5) Each year we host our Founders Society members (donors who give $500 or more annually), members of the Heritage Society (those that have Bethel in their estate plan), and Endowed Scholarship holders to a reception with the President. This year, guests were invited to attend the matinee performance of the Christmas concert, followed by a reception in the Rotunda with hors d’oeuvres and a special musical performance by President McDonald, showcasing his remarkable piano talent. Bethel Night at the Ballpark (1) South Bend Cubs: We welcomed over 300 alumni for our annual Bethel Night with the South Bend Cubs on August 19, 2025. We enjoyed good food and baseball with Bethel friends and ended the evening with fireworks. Indianapolis Indians: On September 12, 2025, we expanded our love for the ballpark by hosting Bethel Night with the Indianapolis Indians. Indy-area alumni and friends heard from Sam Lewandoski ‘23, ticket sales executive, and his father Randy Lewandowski, president and CEO of the Indians. We enjoyed a great game from the Indians and fireworks to end the night. ALUMNI UPDATES Russ Fish ‘84 published the book A Happy Ending – The Life Story of a Redeemed Rebel through Morgan James Publishing. It focuses on his life and testimony as a Missionary Church pastor who helped start Cornerstone Community Church (which became Harvest Bible Chapel and is now Gospel City Church). Fish was inspired to write a book for his kids and grandkids, but the more he wrote, the more he felt this was a redemption story that could be used for others.
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