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
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