Dead Sea Scrolls Coming p. 2 | Haiti Relief Efforts p. 10 | The First Ladies of Bethel p. 32
Winter 2010
AMEN
A renewed emphasis on prayer guides the Bethel community on and off campus.
College of Arts & Sciences | College of Adult & Professional Studies | Graduate School | Bethel Seminary
From the editor Winter 2010 Volume 1 Number 2
Book of Uncommon Prayer For the article on prayer in this issue (“On Our Knees,” p. 22), it seemed fitting to include a long-ago prayer by Gordon Johnson, former dean of Bethel Seminary from 1959 to 1984 and a known prayer warrior. I wanted to find a particular prayer in its entirety. Now, Gordon himself, still sharp at age 90, might have remembered it by heart; I could have tracked him down at his home in New Brighton, Minn. But I saw the perfect chance to stymie Jim Spickelmier, a colleague in the Development Office who’s a walking encyclopedia—even an author—on Bethel’s history. Did he know of this prayer? Undaunted, Jim walked into my office moments after I asked him and handed me a small, purple, spiral-bound booklet—most likely the only copy—containing not only the prayer I had in mind but also many others Gordon had written, all typed on a typewriter by Johnson’s administrative assistant Edna Schultz. (I concede: the answers to all Bethel questions are somewhere in Jim’s office!) I read the booklet’s 19 moving and poetic prayers from cover to cover. In a chapel prayer, Gordon challenged: “In this land of plenty, we have thought too much in terms of our privileges and our rights, and all too little in terms of our duty.” For a building dedication, he prayed, “Heal the wounds of life that are among us through the therapy of human love and friendship.” He asked that graduates be prodded to “share persuasively the Bible’s relevance for today.” It struck me that the essence of Bethel’s prayers has not changed much through the years. Nor has its commitment to prayer itself wavered. In “On Our Knees,” you’ll read how students, faculty, staff, alumni, and friends of Bethel are regularly going to God today on behalf of one another and the school’s mission. Then, in “Three First Ladies” (p. 32), you’ll see that Gordon’s requests are the same ones Nancy Lundquist, Darleen Brushaber, and Barb Barnes have harbored for Bethel. And you’ll read of Bethel students praying for our Haitian brothers and sisters struggling in unimaginable ways (p. 10). Going before God with questions, praises, and requests is a priority woven throughout the university, as well as in this particular issue of Bethel Magazine. Read on and be inspired by the myriad ways God is answering—for Bethel and through Bethel—in our needy world.
Heather J. Johnson Editor
Senior Vice President for Communications and Marketing Sherie J. Lindvall ’70 Editor Heather Johnson
Senior Consulting Editor for Bethel Seminary Scott Wible S’02 Contributors
Barb Carlson Dale Eng ’00 Steffanie Lindgren ’10 Cindy Pfingsten Scott Streble Amanda Wanke ’99 Michelle Westlund ’83 Suzanne Yonker
Design Darin Jones ’97 Staff Photographer Woody Dahlberg ’69 President James (Jay) H. Barnes III Vice President for Constituent Relations Ralph Gustafson ’74, S’78
Editorial Offices
3900 Bethel Drive St. Paul, MN 55112-6999 651.638.6233 651.638.6003 (fax) bethel-magazine@bethel.edu
Address Corrections
Office of Alumni and Parent Services 651.638.6462 alumni@bethel.edu
Bethel Magazine is published three times a year by Bethel University, 3900 Bethel Drive, St. Paul, MN 55112-6999. Postage paid at St. Paul, Minnesota, and additional mailing offices. Printed in the USA. Copyright © 2010 Bethel University. All Rights Reserved. Bethel University is sponsored by the churches of Converge Worldwide, formerly known as the Baptist General Conference. It is the policy of Bethel not to discriminate on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin, age, gender, or disability in its educational programs, admissions, or employment policies as required by Title VI of the Civil Rights Act and Title IX of the 1972 Education Amendments. Inquiries regarding compliance may be directed to: Compliance Officer, Bethel University, 3900 Bethel Drive, St. Paul, MN 55112-6999.
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Go Tell It On the Mountain At the 53rd Festival of Christmas, nearly 300 Bethel students performed well-known, traditional carols in untraditional ways.
Departments Campus News
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13 Paving the Way to the Pastorate
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16 Tuned In or Turned Off?
December commencements, Biology labs open, Black History Month celebrated, Aiding in the Haiti relief efforts
Bookmarked
Recently published books by Bethel faculty members
PlaceMeant
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A tour of a significant space at Bethel—this issue, the Baptist General Conference History Center
Profile
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Greg Idrizow, electrician Bethel, St. Paul
Alum News Look for this icon to find Bethel Magazine exclusives on the web! Head to bethel.edu/magazine for more.
Features
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Unique partnership with the Kern Family Foundation prepares future churchworkers.
Child development experts at Bethel share tips on parenting in the age of media.
22 On Our Knees
A renewed emphasis on prayer guides the Bethel community both on and off campus.
27 More than Numbers
The Department of Math and Computer Science has found an equation that produces math-loving graduates who make a difference.
32 Three First Ladies
Nancy Lundquist, Darleen Brushaber, and Barb Barnes share about their roles as wives of Bethel presidents. Bethel University
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Campus News
Sing We Now of Christmas: A Festival of Carols
The Dead Sea Scrolls are Coming to the Twin Cities! Bethel alumni and friends are invited to several events surrounding the Dead Sea Scrolls exhibit at the Science Museum of Minnesota.
Lecture | Thursday, April 8, 2010
More than 5,600 people attended the four Festival of Christmas concerts and some 750 enjoyed Swedish food at the holiday smorgasbords. View photo gallery
Congratulations Grads!
7 p.m., Benson Great Hall, Bethel University Ron Youngblood, professor emeritus of Old Testament and Hebrew at Bethel Seminary San Diego, and Dan Gurtner, associate professor of New Testament at Bethel Seminary St. Paul (no reservations required)
Exhibit and Lecture | SOLD Saturday, April 10, 2010
OUT
9 a.m., Science Museum of Minnesota Lecture by Professors Youngblood and Gurtner, followed by tours through exhibit at 10:45 a.m. and 11 a.m. (tickets required)
Lecture | Sunday, April 11, 2010 3 p.m., Worship Center, Wooddale Church, Edina, Minn. Professors Youngblood and Gurtner (no reservations required)
Exhibit | Saturday, April 17, 2010
In December, 114 students from the College or Arts & Sciences and 207 from the College of Adult & Professional Studies and Graduate School commenced. Most participated in the commencement ceremonies. View photo gallery
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Winter 2010
10 a.m. and 10:15 a.m., Science Museum of Minnesota (tickets required) Tickets are selling quickly! Please visit bethel.edu/alumni or call the Office of Alumni and Parent Services at 651.638.6462, or 800.255.8706, ext. 6462, for availability. Due to the special nature of the event, tickets are non-refundable.
Campus News
Following the Footsteps of the Band of Brothers
Above: Jacques Forest, site of the Battle of the Bulge; right: Utah Beach; below: Dachau ovens
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Is a leader born or made? “It’s always both,” says Bethel University Head Football Coach Steve Johnson ’78. Across Europe in January, 25 Bethel University students got a unique lesson in leadership by following the footsteps of Easy Company of the U.S. Army 101st Airborne, made famous by Steven Spielberg and Tom Hanks’ 2001 HBO mini-series Band of Brothers. The course was the brainchild of Johnson and Dan Leafblad ’74, two men sometimes brought to tears while talking about the sacrifices made during World War II. “We wanted students to gain a greater View photo gallery
Bethel ranked 12th for undergraduate study-abroad participation among 40 other master’s institutions, according to a recent Open Doors Report for the 2007-2008 school year.
appreciation of what that generation gave us,” says Leafblad. “You can’t be there [Normandy] without your knees shaking and the hairs on your neck standing up.” The group traveled to key sites from the war in Great Britain, France, Holland, Germany, Austria, and Belgium. The course emphasized the importance of personal character, integrity, and emotional intelligence, as well as giving an overview of the war, its key players, and the change it brought to the world. “We made a small stop in the town of Aldbourne,” says Bethel senior Brett Thiesen. “This town was where Easy Company was stationed before D-Day. A couple of us were walking the town streets and ran into a man named Cecil Newton. Cecil served in the war for Great Britain as a tank commander. He showed us the field where the Band of Brothers lived, where they hung out, and where they trained. It was an unreal experience.” Bethel University
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Campus News
Training Pastors in Uganda In August, a taxi-van of three professors, one donor, and five students from Bethel Seminary San Diego (BSSD) was traveling down a road 20 miles outside of Gulu, Uganda—one of the most dangerous areas in the country—when hooves slammed into the windshield. The Ugandan driver hit and killed a cow that had wandered onto the road. Scared, the driver fled into the darkness as a crowd of angry Ugandans formed. It was only the second day of the group’s two-and-a-half-week trip, and they were stranded. Thirty minutes later, a truck from humanitarian organization World Vision drove by, stopped, and picked up the Bethel team members who were then able to do what they had traveled so many miles to do: support and train nearly 600 Ugandan pastors. This rescue was just one of many auspicious encounters the group experienced throughout their trip.
In the classroom Using book sets, which included the NIV Study Bible, the African Bible Commentary, and How to Read the Bible for All It’s Worth, the team provided two four-day training sessions, one for pastors in Gulu, Uganda, and the other for pastors in the capital city of Kampala. They led sessions on hermeneutics, sermon preparation, pastoral counseling, and leadership. “It motivated us to preach sermons based on the Bible,” says one of the Ugandan pastors. Often, the pastors broke off into small groups for discussion. “It was in their groups where they started to really get the ideas presented plus build relationships with other church leaders,” says Arnell Motz, BSSD’s lead faculty for preaching and missions. Leading and mentoring small groups was BSSD student Gin Lao’s favorite part of the trip. “It was very humbling to lead these pastors and workers in the study of God’s Word,” he says. “Their hunger for God’s Word is both encouraging and convicting.” He connected with the Ugandan pastors and was challenged personally. “I was 4
Winter 2010
asked which of my names, ‘Gin’ or ‘Lao,’ was Christian,” Lao explains. “I said, ‘neither.’ The Ugandan was surprised and continued, ‘how will one know if one is a Christian in your place?’ I thought for a while and responded, ‘by the way they live.’ It’s not in my name but in how I live that exalts the name that is above all names.” Both Lao and BSSD student Assad Saif have remained in contact with some of the Ugandan pastors they met. Saif says these types of trips are essential to the development of international pastoral ministries. “I have come away with an incredible global awareness,” he explains. “As a pastor, I know more of what the pastors and churches in Africa need.” BSSD intends to develop follow-up materials to help the pastors continue learning. “The project benefits our own students and provides valuable intercultural experience for our faculty members,” says John Lillis, BSSD’s dean and executive officer. “It also gives much-needed education to grassroots pastors in Uganda.”
View photo gallery
Campus News
Giving Legacy: The Hanson Family While growing up, Mark Hanson ’06 would overhear his parents discussing which missionaries and organizations to support in their “annual giving meeting.” Now he and his wife Christy (Hainlen) ’05 have their own meetings, and they decided within their first year of marriage to set aside a portion of their income for Bethel—where they met. “Bethel is a special place for our whole family, and we want others to have the same experience we had,” Mark says. His mom and dad, Harley Hanson ’71 and Sally (Haaland) ’74, also met at Bethel. In addition to providing their four boys (Harrison ’01, Stephen ’03, Mark ’06, Bjorn ’09) the opportunity
Harley and Sally Hanson
Mark and Christy Hanson
for Bethel educations, they have given to Bethel through time and finances. Supplementing their regular gifts to Bethel’s Annual Fund, Harley and Sally are part of the Royal Business Class, supporting Royal Athletics through the Royal Athletic Association; the pair often makes the two-and-a-half hour drive from Long Prairie, Minn., to cheer on the Royals teams. Their youngest son Bjorn was a student coach for the basketball team for four years and was an allconference athlete in golf; Stephen played club lacrosse; Mark played golf; and Harrison played football. “We weren’t able to give a lot when the boys were going to school, but we knew the little that we did give was investing in another generation,” says Sally. “We were encouraged by our parents who taught us that giving is not something you only do during a certain time of your life. It’s a responsibility that carries on throughout the years, and God will bless it.” Harley’s mother and father, Harris and Alice, set up the Sheloa Hanson Hillman Memorial Scholarship in 1980 to honor Harley’s sister Sheloa, who passed
away that year. Since its inception, the scholarship has helped many Bethel students. And you’ll still catch 91-yearold Harris treating Royals football fans to dinner at Joe Senser’s after a game. Harris and Alice have been members of the Royal Athletic Association since 2001, giving to Bethel’s student athletes. “My parents and grandparents were so good at teaching us to give back what we have been blessed with and to do it with a generous heart,” Mark explains. Christy, whose parents and sister are also Bethel grads, agrees. “We started learning about finances and the importance of giving back as little kids,” she explains. “My parents modeled a lifestyle of generosity by being willing to give their time and energy as well as money.” The Hanson family members all agree that giving to Bethel is not just about supporting education. It’s about wanting others to be challenged in their faith, make lifelong friendships, and learn to be adventurous Christ-followers. It’s what Bethel has afforded them. For information on ways to give to Bethel, visit bethel.edu/development.
Harris and Alice Hanson
Bethel University
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Campus News
Nurses Far From Home Seven master’s-level nursing students from Uganda decided to spend three months of their country’s hot season in Minnesota’s cold winter to further their education! As part of an expanding Bethel partnership with Uganda Christian University (UCU), the students visited Bethel from January through March, auditing the interim course Cultural Diversity in Healthcare and shadowing Bethel nursing professors to clinical sites. For Ugandan student Keren Carol
Drateru, one of the best opportunities was the chance to use Bethel’s computer labs and libraries to conduct research for her master’s thesis. Describing the technology differences between the two countries, she says, “We are just coming up like a child who is starting to walk, but you are in the running stage.” The need for master’s level nurses in Uganda is great; many bachelor’s-level professors are teaching bachelor’slevel students. To help, Bethel nursing professor Karen Drake is working with UCU through Fulbright grants as program facilitator to help establish and support a master’s degree in nursing—the only program of its kind open to all people in Uganda.
New Biology Labs Open Next time you’re on the St. Paul campus, look between the Academic Center and the Clauson Center, just south of Brushaber Commons. You’ll see Bethel’s newest addition: biology labs, recently completed and opened for use at the start of the second semester. With more nursing majors and a growing interest in sports medicine and health sciences, Bethel had outgrown its existing lab space. Students and faculty are already taking full advantage of the additional labs, which include new space for animal storage and an art plaza on the roof. “The project team is very grateful for Bethel community support during the construction,” says Director of Facilities Management Tom Trainor. “The final result is a beautiful space that enhances our academic curriculum, and we can join together in gratitude for it.”
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Winter 2010
Heard on Campus God has a oneitem agenda: Reconciliation to Himself and to each other. Curtiss DeYoung, professor of reconciliation studies, at recent Pathways to Reconciliation forum. Panelists, including Samuel Zalanga, professor of anthropology and sociology, and Mark Harden, dean of intercultural relations at Bethel Seminary, discussed ways reconciliation can be achieved in the American church. Listen to forum webcast
Campus News
Teachers in the Making
Runs in the Family
Nine Bethel education majors were commended by St. Paul’s new public school superintendent, Valeria Silva, for their commitment to the students at North End Elementary School, a high-minority, highpoverty school of 310 students. Through a new partnership, these Bethel seniors take their education methods courses at the North End school site, some in the morning before the school’s students show up. Then they spend much of the day as teachers’ assistants in classrooms before returning to “the Bethel room”—as Principal Hamilton Bell calls the room he’s allocated for Bethel students—for more classes. It’s a lot to ask of seniors, explains Bethel Education Professor Sandi Horn who organized the program last summer. “It’s their last year at Bethel, so spending
Ron Youngblood, professor emeritus of Old Testament and Hebrew at Bethel Seminary San Diego, began his full-time teaching career at Bethel Seminary St. Paul in 1961 and retired in 2001 from Bethel Seminary San Diego. His wife Carolyn graduated from Bethel College in 1978 and their daughter Wendy in 1985. Now, two of their grandchildren are current students, Nathan Youngblood ’11 and Allie Morrisey ’12. Hear Ron talk about the Dead Sea Scrolls at numerous Bethel events throughout April. See p. 2.
“I’ve appreciated learning the differences between teaching boys and girls,” he says. “And it’s fun to really relate to the boys and be able to talk to them about life experiences.” North End’s students are reaping the benefits of having a teacher and a student teacher in their classrooms, as well. For example, at the start of the school year, children in the kindergarten class were significantly behind in necessary skills. Now, their test results show that they’ve already made up one year’s worth of skills. Progress is indeed being made throughout grade levels and subject material, but more work needs to be done. That’s why Louise Wilson, Bethel’s education department chair, is hoping to create additional partnerships as part of the Twin Cities Teacher Collaborative (TC2). Through TC2, Bethel is one of 14 institutions that will receive funding from the Bush Foundation. Investing more than $40 million over the next decade, the Bush Foundation is giving $7 million to TC2, an initiative supporting teacher preparation in Minnesota, North Dakota, and South Dakota. Bethel will also partner with Augsburg, Concordia-St. Paul, Hamline, St. Catherine, and St. Thomas. Bethel students with St. Paul’s new public school superintendent. “Teacher preparation is a their days completely off campus is a part of the fabric of our society because sacrifice,” she says. teachers affect every child in the country,” But it was one Sarah Muyskens was says Debra Harless, vice president and willing to make. She is now teaching in dean for the College of Arts & Sciences one of North End’s fifth-grade classes. “It’s at Bethel University. “I’m excited about been a great way to culminate everything the partnership and the opportunity to I’ve been learning,” she explains. “I feel dream and plan with other experts in the much more prepared now.” education field. This is a moment for us Tom Cozzolino has been working with to work together in new ways in higher first-grade boys—North End divides education that have the potential for boys and girls through fourth grade. significant impact in the lives of children and families.”
Does your family have a deep, longstanding connection to Bethel? Tell us about your clan at bethel-magazine@ bethel.edu.
Corrections: Greg Bourland, not Greg Bourgond, was appointed to the 2009 Board of Examiners. Scott Wible was a contributing editor for “We Are Christ-followers.” Scott Streble took photos for the piece. Bethel Seminary San Diego has been accredited by the National Central Association of Colleges and Schools since its inception, but was only recently accredited by the Commission on the Accreditation for Marriage and Family Therapy Education. Bethel Magazine regrets these errors in the fall issue.
Bethel University
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Black History Month Celebrated The popular movies Pride, The Great Debaters, Goodbye Solo, and 500 Years Later were used to help Bethel recognize Black History Month. In collaboration with Concordia University, Luther Seminary, Northwestern College, St. Catherine University, United Theological Seminary, and William Mitchell College of Law, Bethel hosted and participated in film forums to generate discussion on black leaders. The forums were only a few of the more than 20 different events, including open mic nights, coffeehouse discussions, musical and literary reviews, and lectures, that were made available to Bethel community members throughout the month of February. This year’s celebrations were focused on black courageous Christ-followers. To that end, Ewuare X. Osayande, a political activist, award-winning author, cultural analyst, poet, essayist, publisher and internet radio talk show host, spoke at Bethel on February 4. CoBelow: In the Underground, Bethel community members participate in a Black History Month discussion on the movie The Great Debaters.; Right: students and alumni fellowship during the first-ever United Cultures of Bethel reunion.
founder and director of POWER (People Organized Working to Eradicate Racism) and creator of Project ONUS: Redefining Black Manhood, Osayande has said, “what matters in the end is what we do on behalf of those who are suffering now. True freedom is experienced in the fight to dismantle all forms of oppression.” Ending the month’s celebration, United Cultures of Bethel (UCB) hosted its firstever reunion to commemorate its 20th year in existence. Alumni had the opportunity to reconnect; recognize UCB leadership; and honor the memory of Terry Coffee, former director of multicultural development and pioneer of UCB, who passed away last year.
Faculty Asides
Campus News
Vincent Peters (off-campus programs) was one of 12 finalists selected to participate in the EducationUSA delegation to Indonesia sponsored by the U.S. State Department and administered by the College Board. “I feel very honored to be chosen to be part of this select group representing Bethel University and the United States of America,” says Peters, whose task on the delegation was to speak on service-learning as part of academic study and on best practices in studying abroad in the United States. Steve Sandage (marriage and family therapy, Bethel Seminary St. Paul) gave a lecture titled “Psychology of Empathy and Forgiveness” at Stiftelsen Arkivet in Kristiansand, Norway, the foundation that memorializes the site where the Gestapo imprisoned and tortured hundreds of Norwegians from 1942-1945. Sandage notes, “I am moved by the courage and humanity of the Norwegian people who, like many others in Europe, survived the Nazi occupation and insist on an integration of remembrance and compassionate involvement in the world.” Louise Wilson (education) was invited to present at a conference in Dubai for teachers and professors of learning disabilities in the Persian Gulf Region. “It was a fascinating experience to interact with teachers and other professionals who are working to improve the language and cognitive development of children with learning disabilities in this part of the world,” says Wilson.
More faculty accomplishments
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Winter 2010
Campus News
Bookmarked Recently published books by Bethel University’s faculty The Trust Edge
Reboot
by David Horsager ’95, GS’05, adjunct faculty member, Graduate School The Trust Edge discusses the importance of trust not only for building organizations but for increasing the bottom line. Fellow Bethel alumni Heidi Sheard ’95 edited the book and Heidi Koopman GS’99 designed it. Endorsers include President Jay Barnes; Jim Green, CEO of Kemps, Inc., who serves as an adjunct faculty member in Bethel’s MBA program; and Steve Wareham GS’07, director of the Minneapolis/St. Paul International Airport.
by Peggy Kendall, Associate Professor of Communication Studies (Judson Press) Kendall wrote this practical resource to help Christians think more intentionally about how technology is slowly changing the way we live. By contrasting our high-tech world with a no-tech God, the book challenges readers to decide how to use existing and future technology in ways that are consistent with the values and lifestyle God calls us to adopt.
Together in the 21st Century
by Daniel Ritchie, Professor of English (Baylor University Press) By placing the most promising postmodern insights in dialogue with eighteenth-century critics of the Enlightenment, Daniel Ritchie argues that we can begin to overcome post-Enlightenment fragmentation without abandoning either coherence (as many postmoderns have done) or the valid insights of modern and postmodern thought (as many traditionalists have done). Bethel alumni and students Charity Kroeker ’08, Hosanna Krienke ’08, and April Walker ’12 assisted Ritchie with parts of the book.
by Curtiss DeYoung, Professor of Anthropology and Sociology (Judson Press) This newly revised and expanded edition offers readers an in-depth study of multiculturalism and diversity in the Christian Scriptures. The original edition has been abridged to make room for nearly 50 percent new material, including contributions from ethnically and culturally diverse men and women as well as a group reflection and action guide. Several Bethel faculty, alumni, and friends were involved: • Kyle Johanson ’09 designed the cover art. • Adjunct faculty member Mimi Haddad wrote a chapter on gender. • Adjunct faculty member Robin Bell wrote the group reflection and action guide. • Several Bethel chapel speakers contributed to the book including, Cain Hope Felder, Brenda Salter McNeil, Allan Boesak, Richard Twiss, Shane Claiborne, and Soong Chan Rah. • Laura Alden ’77 is the publisher at Judson Press. • The book is dedicated to the late Terry Coffee, Bethel’s first director of multicultural development. For many other books by Bethel faculty, visit the Campus Store at bookstore.bethel.edu and click on “Bethel Authors.”
The Fullness of Knowing
Interpreting the Pentateuch Peter Vogt, Associate Professor of Old Testament, Bethel Seminary St. Paul (Kregel) Interpreting the Pentateuch provides an overview of the major themes of the Pentateuch—the first five books of the Bible; offers resources and strategies for interpreting and understanding them; and explains their contemporary significance. Vogt also gives readers two start-to-finish examples of his techniques for effective exegesis. More recently published books
Bethel University
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Campus News
World Changers: Helping Haiti
Students Current seminary D. Min. student Ramon Pastrano is helping feed nearly 30,000 Haitian children each day through the non-profit organization he started in 2007 called Impact Lives (impactlives.org). Although not a relief organization—Impact Lives provides leadership and crosscultural training as well as short-term humanitarian efforts—Pastrano says they are packing and sending containers of food to Haiti, as fast as possible. “People are calling us to get help with logistics, food, and supplies,” he explains. ImpactLives is also raising funds for clean drinking water and medical supplies to replace critical medical equipment destroyed in the earthquake. And on campus, College of Arts & Sciences students held a special prayer and worship service on Thursday, Jan. 21, organized by the Bethel Student Association. Over the course of two days, students collected more than $2,300 for emergency Haiti relief (water, food, blankets, tents, and more). “As Christ-followers, we are called to ‘serve the least of these’ and to help our brothers and sisters in their time of need,” says senior Megan Hawley, who helped organize the efforts. “This is a great time of need in Haiti’s history, and our brothers and sisters there need our support and prayers.”
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Winter 2010
photos courtesy of Impact Lives
Responding to the devastation in Haiti, Bethel students and alumni alike are putting one of Bethel’s core values—changing the world—into action.
Alumni By using crayons, kids and Bethel alum Kevin Hendrichs ’01 are creating art and raising money for Haiti through Color4aCause.org. Kids color a picture or pictures, and then others donate money and receive one of the Crayola masterpieces. Not only does the cause help Haiti, but kids learn the importance of helping others. “There is a lot of value in the act of creation. One of the most beautiful and basic examples of that kind of creativity is a kid with some crayons,” says Hendrichs, who minored in art. “I’ve thought about trying to do more with it for some time, but the earthquake in Haiti gave it a purpose.” The money is going to Hendrichs’ church, Messiah Episcopal Church in St. Paul, Minn., which has partnerships with numerous Haitian organizations. Fellow Bethel alum Jen Halverson ’00 headed off to volunteer as a pediatrician in Haiti in 2007 before becoming a fellow in pediatric emergency medicine at Children’s Hospital and the University of Minnesota. Now she’s back in the ravaged country providing medical relief in a makeshift neighborhood clinic. Children’s Hospital is supporting her by sending much-needed supplies. Halverson is delivering babies, performing amputations, and addressing unimaginable wounds. With time, the acute emergency care is turning to more long-term care. “Despite all that…” she writes, “It’s good to be here. I’m working with some amazing people and staying with some of my best friends. People back home and all over the world have been amazingly supportive.” more on Jen Halverson Her work was highlighted by Minnesota Public Radio, and her blog, sleepydoctor.blogspot. com—where she documents and shares her experience—is garnering local attention.
Sports News
The women’s basketball team also overcame their fair share of early season frustrations to finish in a tie for sixth place in the MIAC, but did not have tiebreaker advantages in their favor. Bethel was led by Taylor Sheley (So., Backus, Minn.), who averaged 12.8 points per game, while Scotti Moats (Fr., Waconia, Minn.) was named the MIAC Co-Athlete of the Week for helping Bethel take down two of the top teams in the conference the last week of January. Moats helped the Royals win their last two games of the season to finish at 11-14 overall and 10-12 in the conference.
Men’s Hockey Out of the 28 players on the 200910 roster, 22 were either freshmen or sophomores, yet the team really came together well thanks to the play of Jack Paul (Fr., Minnetonka, Minn.), Jon Crouse (Fr., Alexandria, Minn.) and Jake Calleja (Fr., New Richmond, Wis.) who were three of the top four freshman scorers in the MIAC. The Royals finished 8-8 in conference play and 10-15 overall, barely missing a trip to the MIAC playoffs.
Women’s Hockey The MIAC is already one of the toughest conferences in the country for women’s hockey, and Bethel has played one of its toughest season schedules to date, taking on a number of nationally ranked teams. The Royals finished strong, winning four of their last six games, falling two points short of earning their third consecutive playoff appearance. They were led by Allison Papko (Jr., Winnipeg, Manitoba) on offense, while goalie Jess Newstrom (Fr., Cambridge, Minn.) had an outstanding season in front of the net. Bethel finished 9-9 in the MIAC and 9-15 overall.
Jess Newstrom photo by Stephanie Van Guilder
Women’s Basketball
Shannon Grejtak
photo by Carl Schmuland
Injuries plagued the Royals nearly all season long. However, they overcame a slow start in conference play to win six out of eight games during one stretch and were in the hunt for a 12th consecutive playoff berth until late in the season. One of the biggest highlights of the season came on January 20 against Saint John’s when Nate Robertson (Sr., Forest Lake, Minn.) eclipsed 1,000 career points between his two seasons at UW-River Falls and these last two with Bethel. He completed his collegiate career with 1,160 points and led the team with a 13.8 points per game average. The Royals finished at 11-14 overall and 7-13 in the MIAC.
photo by Maria Sanny
Men’s Basketball
Jon Crouse
Men’s Indoor Track
Women’s Indoor Track
Several school records have already fallen, with the most recent being a 20-year-old high jump record, broken by Jay Quick (Jr., Johnston, Iowa), and an 18-year-old pole vault record, broken by Gabe Hymer (So., Apple Valley). Dan Greeno (Sr., St. Michael, Minn.) now claims the fastest 3,000-meter run and mile times, while the 4 x 400 meter relay team has also set a new school record and achieved an NCAA provisional qualifying time. Taylor Ferda (Sr., Whitefish, Mont.) has also met provisional standards in the 55-meter hurdles. The team has been ranked as high as 10th nationally heading into the conference championship meet.
Marie Borner (Sr., Cottage Grove, Minn.) continues to rewrite the Bethel track and field record books as she, too, has already set two new records. At the Bethel Invitational, she broke the previous record in the 1000-meter race by running it in less than three minutes, and then bettered her own school record in the 800 meter run at the Parent’s Day Open at the University of Minnesota. Kayla Jelen (Jr., Sioux Falls, S.D.) is off to a good start as a middle and long distance runner, while Michaela Otto (Sr., Woodbury, Minn.) looks to be a strong competitor in the 55-meter hurdles at the conference championship meet. Bethel University
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Campus News
Summer Camps Each summer, coaches from Bethel’s Department of Athletics operate camps and clinics for hundreds of student athletes. Although designed to help kids enhance their level of play, the camps also expose them to a positive, Christian collegiate environment. Check out this summer’s offerings, including a piano camp. For more information on athletic camps, visit athletics.bethel.edu and click “Camps & Clinics.”
Boys Basketball Day Camp
Girls Basketball Overnight Camp
Grades 3-9 June 14-17, 2010 Emphasis is placed on the development of a healthy self-image and a positive attitude towards the game of basketball. Email Coach Jeff Westlund: j-westlund@bethel.edu
June 28-July 1, 2010 Email Coach Jon Herbrechtsmeyer: j-herbrechtsmeyer@bethel.edu
Pepe Jon’s Soccer Camp Grades 7-12 June 20-25, 2010 Designed for players seeking a serious soccer environment within a team setting, the camp focuses on technical and tactical aspects. Email Coach PepeJon Chavez: pepejonshappyfeet@yahoo.com
Girls Basketball Day Camp June 21-24 Email Coach Jon Herbrechtsmeyer: j-herbrechtsmeyer@bethel.edu
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Boys Christian Basketball Overnight Camp #1 Grades 5-10 July 5-8, 2010 In addition to focusing on spiritual and character development, the camp is a fun week of competition, individual skill enhancement, and teambuilding. Email Coach Jeff Westlund: j-westlund@bethel.edu
Young Artist Piano Camp Grades 5-12 July 5 – 15, 2010 A 10-day, highly motivating experience for pianists featuring Andre Watts and a special live taping of NPR’s “From the Top” program. cmmusicschool.org Email Lori McNamara: lmcnamara@ cmmusicschool.org
Boys Christian Basketball Overnight Camp #2 Grades 7-12 July 12-15, 2010 In addition to focusing on spiritual and character development, the camp is a fun week of competition, individual skill enhancement, and teambuilding. Email Coach Jeff Westlund: j-westlund@bethel.edu
! NEW Cross
Camp
Country
Grades 9-12 July 19-22 Join Coach Timp and current Bethel runners on workouts for developing distance skills. Email Coach Jim Timp: james-timp@Bethel.edu
Volleyball Advanced Skills Camp Grades 9-12 July 26-29, 2010 This camp helps serious volleyball athletes reach their potential by offering comprehensive volleyball and spiritual training. Email Coach Gretchen Hunt: gretchen-hunt@bethel.edu
Volleyball Day Camp Grades 6-8 August 2-3, 2010 This camp facilitates the development of self-confidence and discipline by challenging beginning volleyball athletes in a high-energy and supportive environment. Email Coach Gretchen Hunt: gretchen-hunt@bethel.edu
Tim Burke’s Tennis College Offered for both youth and adults June and July A great mixture of personal instruction, games, and contests to improve your tennis game. web.mac.com/tb4tennis Email Coach Tim Burke: tb4tennis@comcast.net
Paving the Way to the Pastorate
“Go to seminary? Become a pastor? Never crossed my mind.”
Bethel University and the Kern Family Foundation partner to guide students down the road less traveled. by Scott Wible, S’02
It’s an increasingly common sentiment among students in Christian colleges. But a partnership between Bethel University and the Kern Family Foundation has led some young people to discover a surprising truth: preparing for and entering the pastorate may indeed be their God-given calling. Bethel University
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Antioch Way
Bethel University is one of only three Christian schools in the nation selected by the Kern Family Foundation to establish grant-funded programs that encourage undergrads to consider seminary study and careers as pastors. Named for the church in Antioch where the first Christians were trained and sent out to perform kingdom work in the world, Bethel’s Antioch Way provides a means for young men and women to ponder a potential call to the pastorate. “As a Bethel community, we are all seeking to help students understand God’s call on their lives and equip them to go out and be world changers,” says Dale Durie, Antioch Way’s director. “Antioch Way lets students explore the realities of a call to pastoral ministry without having to change majors.” Selected juniors embark on a two-year track during which they enroll in recommended courses, meet with ministryseasoned mentors, complete a job-shadowing exercise and a paid internship with area churches, and attend a series of Antioch Way student retreats. The program kicked off in fall 2008 with 23 participants; a second cohort of 25 began in fall 2009. “Antioch Way has helped me learn what it means to be a child of the King,” says senior Reid Velo. After an internship with a pastor, he’s begun to consider a career with a leadership slant, perhaps one day in a pastoral role. “My education at Bethel, valuably supplemented by Antioch Way, is preparing me to be a powerful agent of change for Christ wherever I go.”
portrait photos by Scott Streble
In 1959, Robert and Patricia Kern founded a business in Waukesha, Wis., and despite multiple setbacks, the enterprise eventually grew to become Generac Power Systems, one of the world’s largest independent manufacturers of engine-driven generator systems. Later, with the sale of a division and a vision for enriching the lives of others, the Kerns established the Kern Family Foundation. Deeply troubled that the number of seminary students preparing for the pastorate had stagnated— despite increasing enrollment each year at evangelical colleges— the Kerns have made it a priority to provide young adults with opportunities to explore and prepare for pastoral ministry. In so doing, the Kerns hope to show their appreciation for the many pastors who have influenced their lives. “Like any worthwhile endeavor, pastoral ministry is difficult,” says Fred Oaks, director of the foundation’s Pastoral Ministry Program, which funds college and seminary students. “It is also a wonderful source of joy and fulfillment in the lives of those whom God has called. We want young adults to have the training experiences and support they need to take the next steps in their Christian journey with confidence.” The Kern Family Foundation benefits Bethel students through two different programs: the foundation’s Pre-Seminary Initiative funds Bethel’s “Antioch Way” program for undergrads, and the Kern Scholars Initiative funds up to 12 full-tuition scholarships annually for Bethel Seminary St. Paul students committed to pastoring in the local church.
Reid Velo
Laura Anderson
Jennifer Dunham
“I was considering becoming a psychologist. But through my church internship I soon realized that I prefer counseling-type work only in natural settings, like that of the executive pastor role.”
“The retreats have provided space to have honest, difficult conversations—to learn about each other’s gifts and how every person brings different, essential parts to the body of Christ.”
“I’ve been able to wrestle with my gifts, to test-drive my passions. I’ve found out that I’m not as excited as I thought I was about certain things, and have found other things that I am passionate about.”
Senior psychology major, philosophy minor, from Nashwauk, Minn.
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Senior biblical and theological studies major, leadership studies minor, from Madison, Minn.
Senior biblical and theological studies major from Bloomington, Minn.
Sarah Burton
Hometown: Irwin, Iowa M.Div. concentration: Global and contextual ministry Occupation: Associate youth director at Calvary Lutheran Church, Golden Valley, Minn. “Being a Kern scholar has really shown me that not all followers of Christ are the same, nor should they be. I know from the Bible that different people have different gifts and passions, and come together to do the work of the church. That head knowledge was always there, but now I get to see it in action with my fellow Kern scholars as we enter various ministry contexts and lead people into growing relationships with Jesus Christ.”
Mitchel Vedders
Hometown: Foreston, Minn. M.Div. concentration: Applied generalist (focusing on youth ministry) Occupation: Substitute teacher, youth director at Grace Alliance Church, Forest Lake, Minn. “Seeing the talents and gifts of my fellow Kern scholars has inspired and challenged me to use my own gifts for God’s glory. The sin in the world can seem overwhelming at times, but the quality of the Kern group and their faithfulness to pastoral ministry has given me hope for the future. I have gained huge benefits from my Kern colleagues in the way of accountability, advice, community, and friendship.”
Kern Family Foundation Scholarship
At the heart of the Kern Family Foundation’s Pastoral Ministry Program is the Kern Scholars Initiative, furthering the foundation’s goal to strengthen the nation’s local churches by offering seminary scholarship aid to bright, gifted young people who hold “a deep and abiding commitment to Jesus Christ, a genuine and authentic spirituality, demonstrated leadership ability, a love for people, and a willingness to serve the church.” One of more than 200 seminaries nationwide considered when the initiative launched in 2003, Bethel Seminary is among just eight that made the final cut. Now 17 Kern scholars study at Bethel. Next year up to 12 additional students may be granted the award. Besides receiving full tuition for three years, Kern scholars also enjoy various avenues of support and encouragement throughout their seminary careers, including interaction with other Kern scholars in seminaries nationwide. Bethel lends its own support as well, with bi-monthly events intended to provide enrichment, fellowship, challenge, and ministry resources. “The Kern Scholarship is providing me with additional life and ministry development tools,” says seminarian Sarah Burton. “I have had the chance to meet incredible ministry leaders, and I am also able to network with other Kern scholars both at Bethel and at other seminaries.” Currently an associate youth director at Calvary Lutheran Church, Golden Valley, Minn., she’d like to continue working with young people inside and outside the church.
Read more Antioch Way and Kern scholars profiles To learn more about Antioch Way or to apply, visit cas.bethel.edu/antioch-way. To learn more about the Kern Family Foundation Scholarship, apply, or nominate others, contact the Bethel Seminary Office of Admissions and Recruitment: seminary.bethel.edu/admissions.
Kern Scholarships are offered annually to new incoming students; applicants must be U.S. citizens aged 27 years or younger, be graduates of an accredited college, have a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.25 on a 4.0 scale, and be committed to completing a master of divinity degree in three years. Recipients also must submit an annual declaration of commitment to pastoring in a local church, and be enrolled in and attending residential program classes full time at Bethel Seminary’s St. Paul campus. “We are grateful for this partnership and the Kern Family Foundation’s commitment to the development of future pastors and leaders for the church,” says Sara Wilhelm Garbers, associate director of seminary admissions. “It is an amazing gift to participate in the formation of these whole and holy leaders.” The Kern Family Foundation’s choice to engage Bethel University in this partnership affirms Bethel’s continued commitment and incomparable capacity to train the next generation of godly leaders in the church, even to the point of directing them down the road less traveled. “I had no intention of going to seminary, and certainly no thoughts of being a pastor. But all that has radically changed,” declares Antioch Way student Laura Anderson, senior in biblical and theological studies. “I now understand more of who I am and what my gifts are, and plan to go to seminary and be a pastor.” BU Bethel University
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by Cindy Pfingsten
Christian Parenting and the Media 16
Winter 2010
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t’s been said that parenting is one of the toughest jobs on earth. Rewarding? Absolutely. Faithenhancing? You better believe it. Easy? Not a chance. And not making the job any easier is the onslaught of video games, cell phones, social media websites, and the like. For Christian parents wanting to follow biblical injunctions, standards may be even higher. So, turn off the TV, silence your Blackberry, and close your laptop. Experts on child development share tips on parenting toddlers, tweens, and adolescents in the age of media—and how Bethel is helping.
the “Little Children” In Matthew 19 Jesus reminds His disciples how important the “little children” are to the kingdom of heaven. But what these little children encounter today in the media is rather beyond their years—despite parents’ best efforts. Young people see more than 40,000 ads each year on TV alone and are being increasingly exposed to advertising on the internet, in magazines, and in schools, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics. A young child might be more prepared to choose a breakfast cereal than what’s right and wrong on the playground. Mark Diehl ’94 is the district technology coordinator for the Little Falls, Minn., School District as well as a father of three— ages four, eight, and 10. “Our four-year-old loves websites like pbskids.org and webkinz.com, as well as playing the Wii,” reflects Diehl. These websites offer numerous preschoolappropriate educational activities like identifying colors, shapes, and letters, and the Wii is a great tool for hand-eye coordination. However, Diehl also acknowledges the dangers for his daughter. “She understands how to use the devices so well, there is a risk of her being exposed to something you don’t want,” he explains.
Ellen Wilson, director of Bethel’s on-campus Child Development Center, regularly sees the media’s impact on young children. “Children are dropped off at our center having watched a video in the car and fully expecting to finish it once they arrive,” reflects Wilson. “That’s not what we’re all about. We engage kids in creative • Be consistent about what you allow play in a relational and don’t allow. environment.” Located on Bethel’s • Set routines for when media can and lakeside campus, the can’t be used. Child Development • Choose TV programming with Center offers care for minimal advertising. more than 50 infants • E ngage your child with nature as through preschoolers in often as possible. an accommodating place. “Children are naturedeprived these days,”
Toddler Tips
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says Wilson. “Location is one of the many things that make our center so great. As many days as possible, we take the children outside to play, discover, and exercise.” The center’s seven full-time staff members live out their faith with the children through prayers, activity, Bible stories, healthy meals and snacks, and loving, caring interaction. Also serving as a lab for College of Arts & Sciences education majors, the center gives Bethel students experience with young children in a supervised environment. “I see frazzled parents who are trying to bounce all the balls in this fast-paced society,” Wilson explains. “The most important advice I can give parents is to make parenting decisions that are pleasing to God.”
moving on up: Elementary School Would your eight year old rather watch “Sponge Bob” than read a book? And does your 10 year old spend more time playing games on the family computer than doing homework? You’re not alone. Although national statistics vary, it’s believed that students between the ages of eight and 18 generally spend four hours a day in front of a TV and almost two additional hours at the computer or playing video games. This leaves little time for physical activity, reading, doing homework, playing with friends, and spending time with family. Possible negative side effects include obesity, aggressive or risk-taking behaviors, difficulty focusing, withdrawal from family life, and decreased academic performance—all considerable worries for parents. But as the first generation to essentially carry the world in the palm of their hand—laptops, smart phones, and the like—this
Tween Tips
age group is also reaping unique benefits. • Set specific time limits on using the computer, “A new dimension watching TV, playing video games, etc. of creativity has • Encourage children to play outside with emerged in which friends. younger and younger • Engage your church as an ally in parenting people are coming and a distraction from harmful media. up with new ideas • Plant the seeds of faith development. Let your and ways of doing things that hadn’t kids catch you reading the Bible and praying been thought of more frequently than checking your PDA. before,” says Diehl. His 10 year old enjoys searching the internet for answers to all sorts of questions—both for school and for fun—as well as online shopping to tell his parents where they can nab the best deal on the newest toy. “The danger is we’ve become such an ondemand society,” says Diehl. “The message kids hear and see in the media is you can have it now. That’s not necessarily a biblical principle.” Parents competing for their child’s attention in a mediasaturated culture should be able to get help from the church. To that end, Bethel Seminary St. Paul’s Children’s and Family Ministry program trains children’s and family ministers to have a well-rounded knowledge of Scripture, a strong sense of their own spiritual development, and a deep understanding of what’s
King CDC The Bethel University King Family Foundation Child Development Center (King CDC), located in the Frogtown/Summit-University neighborhood of St. Paul, provides area children with quality, Christ-centered care and education. The center is one aspect of Bethel’s partnership with the Frogtown/SummitUniversity neighborhood. Bethel students majoring in education get communitybased experiential learning, enhancing their ability to be strong, culturally responsive teachers. The King CDC was recently accredited by the nation’s leading organization of early childhood professionals—the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC). Only 8 percent of the nation’s preschools and other early childhood programs have earned this recognition. For more information, visit bethel.edu/cdc/king. 18
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happening in the culture today. It was the first and continues to be the only similar program of its kind in the U.S., offered primarily online through a distributed learning system. Students can be employed in the field while they are taking classes— applying what they learn on a daily basis. According to Denise Muir Kjesbo, director of the program, “The only effective children’s ministry is one that partners with parents as the primary faith nurturers.” She acknowledges that the church has a responsibility both to celebrate the media as well as protect children and families from its more harmful effects. In light of increasing complexities in the family unit, including single and two-parent working families, shared custody situations, and poverty-stricken families, this can be a significant challenge. “We advocate a face-to-face, strongly relational ministry in our program,” explains Kjesbo.
the wonder years: Adolescence
The Cory Center Have a heart for children’s ministry but need or want additional training? The Cory Center, a program offered through Bethel Seminary, pairs you with a seasoned children’s ministry professional who holds a Master of Arts in Children’s and Family Ministry from Bethel Seminary. It is a side-by-side coaching network for children’s ministers in which you have the opportunity to: • Discover and hone talents and abilities. • Discuss ministry aspirations and options with someone who’s been there. • Enjoy encouragement and support to set and achieve goals. • Learn the unwritten “rules” of children’s ministry. • Develop or refine leadership skills. • Receive support during a transition period. • Gain personal and professional accountability.
Your daughter IMs (instant messages on the computer, that is) with her nine “best” friends. Your son falls asleep with his For more information, visit www.corycenter.org. cell phone under his pillow because he can’t miss a text, after all! This is after he’s been up until the wee hours of the morning playing video games. Though not uncommon teen habits these Nevertheless, Davis and her husband don’t allow any days, they are concerning to parents who wonder how positive a technology at the dinner table, and the family computer is “friend” technology is to their kids. located in the kitchen in an open environment. Church youth Diane Davis, who works in Bethel’s Office of Development, group can also become a critical parental ally; it’s often a place has three children, 14, 16, and 18, and wonders how technology in which teens do connect face-to-face and discover a sense of affects—or will affect—their relationships. Davis is what Scott belonging. Strand, instructional technology consultant at Bethel Seminary “For our kids, it [youth group] has been priceless,” says Davis. St. Paul, calls a digital immigrant. Her kids are digital natives— “They receive Christian mentoring and learn to live in a real children born after 1985. And the divide between the two community.” becomes most obvious during the adolescent years. More and more youth leaders are learning “As a parent, you can feel overwhelmed and intimidated,” how to make the best use of the media in their explains Davis. “It’s difficult to monitor the different interaction with teens, says Strand. Now communication sources they’re using, first because it youth groups have Facebook takes time, and second, because you’re pages, websites, Twitter not as adept with the technology as accounts, and other forms of they are.” instant communication. “Blogs Parents unable to plug into their • Become their friend on Facebook to help can be an extension of the children’s world—sometimes quite youth group, giving a sense of literally—is a rather new phenomenon. monitor activity. ownership and shared purpose,” “For digital immigrants, community • Install web-blocking software on the explains Strand. “They also can means doing life together,” explains family computer to ensure that what indicate the idea of something Strand. “For digital natives, community they’re viewing is age appropriate. bigger than ‘us’—a shared means having immediate contact with key • Review their cell phone call and text mission to reach out.” BU people in their life; it doesn’t have to be face history at the end of each day. to face.” For both parents and adolescents, • Do not allow cell phones at the dinner it becomes about understanding that neither table. perspective is good or bad, just different, says Strand.
Teenager Tips
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PlaceMeant
By Heather Johnson
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Tucked away in a second-floor corner of the library at Bethel Seminary St. Paul (in the Carl H. Lundquist addition) is the Baptist General Conference History Center. High-ceilinged and wood-paneled, one room displays artifacts and photos relating to the history of the conference, seminary, and college. Connected to this room is a veritable walk-in closet—the archives—where the majority of materials are stored, including: institutional records and publications of Bethel University; conference records and publications; photographs; Swedish hymnal and Bible collections; biographical files on more than 2,600 pastors and laypersons; home and foreign missions records; church and district records; and hundreds of material objects. It is also where Diana Davis Magnuson ’88, professor of history and director of archives, works two days a week stewarding the history of a very diverse group of people. She oversees the work flow of identifying, organizing, indexing, and archiving everything that comes through the History Center’s door (bethel.edu/bgc-archives) to preserve it for use by scholars, researchers, and the current Bethel and conference community. Here she shares the history behind some of the items with which she works.
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photo by Scott Streble
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1 Incoming materials. From garages, attics, and church basements come letters, Bibles, photos, and even a mammoth tusk! Magnuson and her student workers identify and prepare donated items for storage. The Baptist General Conference (BGC) name change and recent move to Orlando, Fla., prompted a flood of historically significant materials in 2009. 2 Organ. Used in Village Creek Church (Iowa), this organ was donated by the family of early conference missionary Erika Bergman, who worked in South India. 3 Esther Sable was an anomaly for her time as few women taught in seminaries. She joined the Bethel faculty in 1924 and taught courses at the academy, the Bible and Missionary Training Department, the college, and the seminary until 1958. In this photo, she is teaching a Greek class. 4 F.O. Nilsson was a pioneer for the Christian faith in mid-19th century Sweden. Immigrating in 1953, Nilsson is regarded as one of the founders of the BGC, having started several of the first churches of Swedish Baptists in Iowa and Minnesota. In 1854 he wrote, “No part of the entire Mississippi Valley is as suitable for Swedes as Minnesota…which is the most beautiful country I have ever seen.” 5 Explosives: Keep Off. No Trespassing or Shooting. This sign marked the DuPont Company’s ammunition storage site. In 1961 the BGC purchased the land from DuPont and began developing the site for Bethel’s St. Paul campus. Thenpresident Carl Lundquist (1954-1982) believed the Bethel community should be “an explosive force for Jesus Christ in the world.” 6 Portraits of seminary deans (left to right): Eric Sandell (1887-1889) shepherded the seminary from its brief sojourn in Stromsberg, Neb., back to Morgan Park, Ill.; John Alexis Edgren (1871-1887) founder; and Carl Lagergren (1889-1922), longest-serving seminary dean. 7 Carl Lagergren’s desk. 8 Two chairs from John Alexis Edgren’s estate. They are wood-framed with blue hand-embroidered floral cushions, and you’re not allowed to sit on them. If you need a seat, a wooden library chair from the Snelling Avenue campus is also in the room (not shown). 9 Storage. Magnuson collaborated with Facilities Management’s Terrance Sandquist to create customized storage and display units. The oversized drawers hold large photos, audiotapes of Bethel chapel services, microfilm and even F.O. Nilsson’s original pardon from the King of Sweden in 1860. 10 and 11. The Stockholm Royal Palace in 1850 was painted by John Alexis Edgren, and is an interpretation of the Palace in Sweden, most likely recalled from his visit there; it hung in the Bethel Seminary Library for nearly 20 years. Other Edgren drawings and paintings are also on display. His untitled oil painting of a sailboat at sunset was part of the Olson Gallery exhibition, “Visual Inheritance: Five Generations from the Permanent Collection” (April-May 2008). 12 Bethel puppy. Donated by Stan Rendahl S’41, this stuffed animal comes from an early 1930s homecoming. Until 1953 the Bethel moniker was “the Indians” with red and white school colors. Bethel University
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raising bethel in prayer
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On Our Knees by Suzanne Yonker
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hen Karen Tangen was in India with a group of her business students in January 2009, she became blind in one eye. Upon returning, the associate professor of business and economics consulted the Mayo Clinic. But she knew she needed more than a doctor’s skill for healing. She needed prayer. “People at Bethel spread the word to pray for me. I did regain my sight. But to recover, I had to lay flat on my stomach for two weeks and not move my head. As an active person, this was impossible,” Tangen explains. “But God protected me and gave me perfect peace. That was a miracle. I did not know how widespread the prayers were until I returned to work.” Students, faculty, and staff at Bethel are praying in organized ways for personal and institutional needs like never before. From student groups to prayer teams that meet throughout the country, Bethel has seen an unprecedented increase in prayer both on and off campus in the last few years, and this increase is making an impact on individuals and the school at large.
a history of prayer
Prayer at Bethel is nothing new. “It has always been a prominent part of the Bethel experience,” says G.W. Carlson, who has taught history at Bethel for 43 years. Far from ceremonial, this legacy of prayer has roots that extend back to the pietism movement in Europe in the late 17th to mid 18th centuries. Pietists called upon Christians to rediscover the devout and holy life, explains Carlson. Many of the leaders of the pietistic movement in Sweden were forced to leave their homeland, and later helped form the Baptist General Conference (BGC), now known as Converge Worldwide.
“Prayer was essential to the pietists’ understanding of Christian community,” Carlson says. “Even the BGC statement of faith sustains this emphasis: ‘We believe that God…hears and answers prayer…’” John Edgren, founder of Bethel Seminary in Chicago, was known for his life of prayer and dependence upon God, practices he encouraged students to embrace in the 1870s. Almost 90 years later, President Carl Lundquist sat on the shores of Lake Valentine contemplating Bethel’s next move. The school was in desperate need of more space, having outgrown its Snelling Avenue campus. He meditated on Jeremiah 33:3 that day: “Call on me, and I will answer and show you great and mighty things which you know not.” God proved His faithfulness. The school officially moved to its current Arden Hills campus shortly thereafter, a development rooted in prayer that Lundquist affectionately called “God’s miracle on Lake Valentine.” “I can attest to the power of fervent, sustaining, and believing prayer,” Lundquist once wrote. “Faith led us into taking big risks, and God kept us for years on the edge of failure. But that also kept us on our knees.”
leadership united in prayer
After Lundquist, President Emeritus George Brushaber maintained this value of prayer. Reviving the President’s Prayer Council begun under Lundquist, Brushaber brought people together to pray for the presidential transition and provision for the school in a hurting economy. “Gradually the Prayer Council added the focus of praying for campus planning, new buildings, new faculty, and stewardship to sustain the growing school over the last quarter century,” Brushaber says.
Prayer support for Bethel is one of the best gifts we get. Each day it is clear to me that we cannot do what God has called us to do without the help of the Holy Spirit and the intercession of God’s people. President Jay Barnes Bethel University
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The council, made up of nearly 20 longtime friends of Bethel, still meets monthly to pray. Through the years it has experienced significant answers to prayer for financial needs, most recently with the “Taking the Next Step” capital campaign. Raising more than $109 million, the campaign funded the building of Brushaber Commons and other projects. “I have seen the Lord answer prayers in wonderful ways,” explains Rod Larson, Bethel web developer, who has participated on the council since its inception. “We prayed for miracles over the years, not knowing how they could be accomplished. The Lord blessed in ways that were completely unexpected.” Through all recent building projects—the Lundquist Community Life Center, Heritage Hall, Lissner Hall, and Brushaber Commons—the council prayed for the safety of the workers. And all workers have successfully and safely completed their projects. Today—thanks to Tangen’s prompting—time is set aside each month for employees to gather and pray for current campus issues. “Prayer support for Bethel is one of the best gifts we get,” says Barnes. “Each day it is clear to me that we cannot do what God has called us to do without the help of the Holy Spirit and the intercession of God’s people.” Staff and faculty collaborate during the prayer sessions to
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The new Pray First Initiative is engaging Bethel’s College of Arts & Sciences students in group prayer, campus fasts, and prayer walks.
Many schools have not held true to their founding principles and their faith. But prayer keeps Bethel on track; it holds Bethel to the purpose for which it exists. Judy Moseman
National Prayer Initiative coordinator
For Bethel faculty and staff, President Jay Barnes leads regular prayer sessions, which include worship and Scripture readings.
In Jesus’ Name… Gordon G. Johnson, professor of preaching and dean of Bethel Seminary (1959-1984), wrote the following prayer for a chapel service.
We do bow, our Lord, to crown you Lord of all! We would long that it would be more than lip service, But You know us so well and know that so often our words far exceed the actions of our lives. You also know our yearnings. We do want you to be Lord. We do want you to be in complete control. Of our thoughts. Of our speaking. And of our function in life. We come apart to worship You today. In this time we turn ourselves over to You anew, Trusting you to take us, And rule us, And lead us. In the tougher issues, teach us to trust. In the moments of indecision, teach us direction. In times of depression, make us feel underneath The everlasting arms. Whatever the issue, may Your presence be vital— A real experience for all of us. And we anticipate that experience during this Time of worship. In Jesus’ Name. Amen. Source: “Proclaim the Good News”: Essays in Honor of Gordon G. Johnson edited by Norris Magnuson
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We need to use the weapon at our disposal in the context of spiritual warfare, which is prayer. Doug Fombelle, Dean of Bethel Seminary of the East provide worship, prayer, and Scripture readings. Participation increased from 15 at the initial session in April 2009 to between 60 and 100 in later meetings. Bethel Seminary staff members also pray regularly on both coasts. “We recognize that in a spiritually based ministry there is spiritual opposition,” says Doug Fombelle, dean of Bethel Seminary of the East. “We need to use the weapon at our disposal in the context of spiritual warfare, which is prayer.”
student prayer initiatives
Prayer is also gaining prominence among the College of Arts & Sciences students with help from the Pray First Initiative, which launched fall 2009. Led by Donna Johnson, assistant campus pastor, the ministry allows students to play a supporting role in prayer ministry at Sunday night Vespers and weekday chapel services. Pray First members intercede during Vespers and also serve on teams that pray for individual students and residence halls or campus areas. “The whole point is teaching our students to intercede for their peers,” Johnson says. The initiative is meeting this goal, as well as opening up opportunities for God to work in the lives of students. For example, Chris Goldsby, a sophomore majoring in business and Spanish, has felt stirred to pray for others more often. He has also learned to “pray for my family and friends and missionaries more consistently,” he says. Through Pray First, Gabriel Hymer, a sophomore majoring in Bible and theology, says he has witnessed God’s answers to prayer. “Over the past semester, we have seen students recommit their lives to Christ, and be released from anxiety, depression, confusion, and addiction,” he explains. To encourage prayer on a larger scale, the group held a 24hour prayer service October 15-16, 2009, and approximately 100 students, faculty, and staff attended. Through this extended prayer service, students learned what it means to “tarry,” Johnson says. “We want students to know what it is like to be in the presence of the Lord.” In addition to monthly prayer walks and campus fasts, the group plans to offer another 24-hour prayer service on campus March 25-26.
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prayer off campus
Beyond campus, many prayer teams around the country gather to pray for Bethel as part of the National Prayer Initiative (NPI). Established by President Brushaber in 2004, the initiative encourages small groups to commit to praying for Bethel regularly. Marie Schultz, Bethel’s former director of church relations, spearheaded the effort. Schultz and her team identified prayer team leaders, who then recruited their own teams. In the beginning, 14 prayer teams of varying sizes committed to interceding for Bethel, while approximately 122 people agreed to become Prayer Partners. Today, there are around 42 prayer teams and nearly 900 Prayer Partners. It is this emphasis on prayer that sets Bethel apart. “This initiative joins people across the nation and literally around the world in prayer groups upholding the mission and ministry of Bethel,” says Brushaber. “It is such a key factor in keeping Bethel on track and moving ahead in Christ-honoring ways.” “Without God’s direction and wisdom, Bethel would be just another four-year liberal arts college and another seminary,” Judy Moseman, NPI coordinator, says. “Many schools have not held true to their founding principles and their faith. But prayer keeps Bethel on track; it holds Bethel to the purpose for which it exists.” For Don Dye ’51, S’55, prayer team leader in Florida, praying for his alma mater has offered him a deeper appreciation of Bethel. “I dedicated my life to God’s service and met my wife there, so it has always been the House of God. I have a continuing appreciation for the ministry of the school and the challenge to stay on a dedicated Christian path,” Interested in learning more about he says. Bethel’s National Prayer Initiative, And as Bethel has followed becoming a prayer partner, or that path through the years, doing a virtual prayer walk through God has been faithful. “God the Bethel campus? answers prayer daily and constantly. I see it played Visit bethel.edu/prayer-initiative. out in the classroom, when I see students who have battled cancer and encountered tragedies of all types,” says Tangen. “Yet God through prayer has strengthened and transformed the lives of these beautiful young people. Prayer is incredibly powerful.” BU
Join in Prayer
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More Numbers The Department of Math and Computer Science has found a math-loving, Christ-following equation by Michelle Westlund ’83 photos by Scott Streble
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Coach. Programmer. Teacher. Missionary. Administrator. Engineer. Researcher. These are only a few of the varied careers in which graduates from Bethel’s Department of Mathematics and Computer Science are using their skills and knowledge to do much more than crunch numbers in a cubicle. The program’s equation to produce math-loving Christ-followers is working…and in places you probably wouldn’t think of.
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Math A Bethel math major, Chris Meidt ’92 has coached football at both the college and professional levels. “Problem solving, organizing data, and situational analysis are football-related skills that have allowed me to excel at every level, never more so than in the NFL,” says Meidt, who earned his MBA from the University of Minnesota’s Carlson School of Management and has worked as a computer systems analyst and a college math instructor as well. “Being able to quickly evaluate, analyze, and make a decision over complex data sets is a skill I use every game day.” Teaching students to use mathematics as a daily tool and as a paradigm for thought is exactly what Bethel’s math program seeks to do (math and computer science are distinct majors within one department). Built around a core of both traditional and innovative courses, the program prepares students for a variety of careers through a balance of theoretical and practical course work. Math majors can emphasize pre-graduate, applied mathematics, education for grades 5-12, or pre-actuarial courses. Unlike some universities, Bethel’s B.A. in math with secondary licensure is a full math major with licensure added, preparing graduates more completely. This gives Bethel’s future math teachers more career options, including teaching advanced placement courses. The degree draws some of the program’s most capable students, says Eric Gossett, professor of mathematics and computer science and department chair: “Some of our best math majors are now high school teachers.” Andy Schwen ’03, S’08 earned a B.A. in math with secondary licensure and later finished a Master of Divinity at Bethel Seminary. He teaches math at Roosevelt Middle School in Blaine, Minn., and was recently recognized as a TIES (Technology Information Education Services) Exceptional Teacher at the TIES 2009 Education Technology Conference in Minneapolis. He is a “proven leader in technology integration,” read the school’s nomination of him. “Our school and district are better places due to Andy’s remarkable ability to promote technology in and out of his classroom.” Schwen says this ability is part of recognizing his passion and being prepared by his education. “The rigor of Bethel mathematics courses challenged me in a way that gave me the confidence to struggle through difficult situations,” he explains, “both in mathematics and life in general.” Ruth Heppner ’04, another math education major, took a different path, joining the Peace Corps in Uganda as a primary teacher trainer. She conducted teacher workshops and computer training; developed instructional materials and resources; and worked with schools and local organizations to decrease the spread of HIV/AIDS. Later returning to the United States, Heppner now teaches at Blaine High School in Blaine, Minn., the same community where Schwen is employed.
Associate Professor of Computer Science Benji Shults works one-on-one with student Aaron Voronyak. The department is committed to supporting students outside the classroom.
Endowing photo by Scott Streble
Math and Computer Science
Computer Science Bethel computer science major Timothy Miller ’01 has put his diverse skills to use not only in the Twin Cities, but also across the world in Iraq. After graduation, he worked for IBM in St. Paul, Minn., and then for a small consulting firm that implements infrastructure solutions for corporations. While consulting, he also served as a signal (communications) officer in the Army National Guard, deploying to Iraq for 16 months. There, he was responsible for designing, implementing, and managing the brigade’s computer systems, eventually coordinating communications for the entire base of more than 10,000 soldiers, contractors, and coalition/foreign military. Miller is proof that Bethel is prepping students for the rapidly expanding computer science field. Students learn current programming languages, network technology, databases, software engineering techniques, hardware, artificial intelligence, and highperformance computing. Bethel interns and graduates have developed a reputation for being well-prepared and honest; in the wake of well-publicized national corporate scandals, these qualities are more valued than ever. As Gossett explains, “Corporations are hiring our graduates and asking for more!” One employer noted that Bethel’s new graduates “are immediately at the level that graduates from other schools attain after two years of industry experience.” Ethan Screnock ’01 interned at the FDA and startup company BayRiver while at Bethel and found the experiences to be extremely helpful both for his education and eventual career. After graduation, Screnock served as a consultant, then in the internet department of the Billy Graham Evangelical Association. For the last six years he has worked for CenTrav, Inc., an international travel consolidator, starting as their technology manager. Today he is the company’s president.
“The rigor of Bethel mathematics courses challenged me in a way that gave me the confidence to struggle through difficult challenges, both in mathematics and life in general.” —Andy Schwen ’03
While teaching math at Bethel from 1978 to 1981, David Perry ’67 wrote grants—a lot of them—hoping to help fund computer science classes, which Bethel lacked at the time. He was successful, and the secured grants made possible the start of a computer science program in 1980. After Perry left Bethel, he worked as a researcher for 3M in the Twin Cities for 14 years, often hiring Bethel graduates who had gone through the computer science program. “I recognized that faculty and students participated in nonacademic activity every summer, rather than working together on research during those months,” explains Perry. “I like the idea of helping faculty members keep two or three students on hand throughout the summer months to work on specific research together.” To that end, Perry and his wife Janice, who attended Bethel for two years, are encouraging Bethel alumni to help them endow a student research scholarship fund for math and computer science majors. They have committed $100,000 on the condition that others make gifts or commitments to meet the funding goal of $250,000. Interested in helping the Perrys fund the math and computer science endowment? For more information visit bethel.edu/development.
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Patrice Conrath (center), associate professor of mathematics, collaborates with seniors Jonathan Seaberg and Megan Hawley.
“Being at Bethel has not only cultivated my passion for math, but also my passion for people.” —Jonathan Seaberg, senior mathematics/Spanish major photo by Scott Streble
Math-Loving Christ-Followers The growth and success of the math and computer science department is built upon the quality and commitment of its diverse faculty. Representing a variety of specializations, the nine full-time faculty members teach to prepare Christians to minister through math and computer science careers. “I really appreciate the support and care of faculty members,” says senior mathematics/French major Megan Hawley. “They make a real effort to nurture students into sincere, genuine, math-loving Christ-followers.” Jonathan Seaberg, senior mathematics/Spanish major, agrees. “People often see mathematics as a very dry and technical study. It’s nice to have a rich mix of strong mathematics with an emphasis on personal growth,” he says. “I appreciate receiving a strong mathematics education in an Meritorious Winners! environment that is very supportive in developing Two teams of Bethel math and well-rounded and spiritually mature people.” computer science students Scott Brown, professor placed in the secondof mathematics education, highest category in the 2009 taught math in the public schools of Cody, Wyo., Consortium for Mathematics for 17 years, bringing and Its Applications (COMAP) a wealth of practical knowledge and experience Mathematical Contest in to Bethel’s 5-8 and 5-12 Modeling. The annual contest math education programs. draws hundreds of math students “Learning should be a celebration of our Godfrom around the world. Both of given abilities—an act Bethel’s teams achieved the rank of worship in itself,” he of “Meritorious Winner,” placing says. “My goal is that students not only gain them in the top 18 percent of the a lasting understanding 1,675 entries worldwide—the of mathematics, but same tier as schools like MIT, also see mathematics as relevant and perhaps even Princeton, and Stanford. beautiful.” 30
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Associate Professor of Mathematics Patrice Conrath directs Bethel’s Math Lab and has been instrumental in founding a national organization for lab directors. Her popular Operations Research (OR) course includes an extensive real-world modeling study carried out by students, with this year’s group developing a simulation model to help improve customer wait times at Bethel’s Royal Grounds coffee shop. More importantly, says Hawley, she challenges students to, in OR-speak, “maximize our lives subject to Jesus Christ. She doesn’t care as much what we remember from her class as she does that we are continually seeking to have Christ at the center of our lives.” An expert in scientific computing, Brian Turnquist, professor of mathematics and computer science, develops algorithms and software to measure neural sensations such as pain and itch. He collaborates regularly with colleagues from Yale, Johns Hopkins, the University of Minnesota, and universities in Germany and Japan, and often involves Bethel students in his research. “By the time students get to Bethel, they have been told many times that God has a will for their lives,” Turnquist says. “I want them also to understand that God has a will for their minds. They have been entrusted with a capacity to think and solve problems and create solutions, and that ability must be trained and developed. It is part…of their calling.” Seniors Hawley and Seaberg plan to live out the calling they have recognized in their studies. “Mathematically talented Christians need to think of mathematics as a path in which they may live out their faith,” says Hawley, who will attend graduate school in industrial engineering/operations research. “We can use our knowledge to further God’s kingdom and live as lights in this world.” Seaberg has already accepted a job teaching high school math in Guadalajara, Mexico, after graduation. “Being at Bethel has not only cultivated my passion for math,” he explains, “but also my passion for people. I believe that my Bethel education has encouraged me to view my vocation as something that can serve God, rather than serve myself.” BU Learn how Operations Research students developed a simulation model to help improve customer wait times at the Royal Grounds coffee shop.
ProFile– Greg Idrizow
by Heather Johnson
It’s just the way he’s wired—pun intended—says longtime Bethel electrician Greg Idrizow. He’s always on the move. This may come from growing up in fast-paced, inner-city Chicago or from his hardworking mom who told him to always be the first one up to help. Either way, it’s one of the reasons he’s good at his job. For the past 16 years, Idrizow has moved throughout Bethel’s Arden Hills, Minn., campus installing and fixing lights at all hours of the day and in various locations—from parking lots to 50-foot Christmas trees. “I come to work ready to rock and roll—as shocking as that is,” he says. Another pun intended. “My philosophy is get the job, get in there, see what needs to be done, knock it out, get out!” And he does, often with the help of his student employees, whom he calls coworkers and friends. “I enjoy learning their takes on the Lord. We sometimes talk about that stuff,” he explains. “They help me understand and see things differently.” In return, he instills in them a work ethic hard to come by. “At the end of the day, you should feel like you made a difference, like you served the Lord, and honored Him with your efforts,” he says. And, of course, it’s all mixed with a little fun. His coworkers once completely buried his white van in snow. He holds himself and the Bethel community to high standards, encouraging everyone to always “be on their A-game”—saying “good morning” to those they pass, smiling, holding doors open, and if someone asks where Brushaber Commons is located, walking with them rather than pointing in the right direction. “I always ask, ‘why would someone want to be a Christian if we’re all crabby?’” Idrizow says.
“I’m not working at Bethel for Bethel. I’m working for the Lord.”
His positive attitude is infectious and commended. In fact, he was named Bethel Colleague of the Month in April 2006 and received Bethel’s Distinguished Service Award in 2007. He says his encouragement comes from his supervisor Tom Trainor, director of facilities management, and President Jay Barnes. “They’re rock solid—true leaders,” he says.
photo by Scott Streble
And the feeling’s mutual. Two years ago, Idrizow was asked by then-Provost Barnes to help commence the undergraduate school year in the opening chapel with a prayer. Idrizow says he was incredibly honored and credits it as one of his best moments on the job. Follow Idrizow on the job for a day.
“I’m not working at Bethel for Bethel. I’m working for the Lord,” he says. “And Bethel is a good place to do that.” Bethel University
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Winter 2010
photo by Scott Streble
Barb
Darleen
photo by Scott Streble
Nancy
By Heather Johnson
Together, their time at Bethel spans nearly 60 years, but the examples they have set and the impact they have made will last much longer. They are the wives of Bethel’s three most recent and current presidents. Sitting down individually with Nancy Lundquist, Darleen Brushaber, and Barb Barnes, I learned that these three women differ, and yet share common traits. These are strong women who are passionate about Bethel’s mission, and live it out with humor and a deep commitment to their faith in Christ. The three first ladies recently shared memorable events that occurred during their husbands’ tenures, what they liked most about their role as the president’s wife, their hopes for current Bethel students, and how you can pray for them now.
First Ladies Barb Nancy Darleen When Nancy Lundquist married her late husband Carl in 1942, she was planning on being a pastor’s wife. And she was, for 10 years, until Carl was asked to become president of Bethel. She had not planned on being the mother of four young children while being the first lady of a university. Now 90 years old, she still lives in the same house near the Minnesota State Fairgrounds in Falcon Heights, Minn., where she used to host faculty dinners, student group meals, graduate receptions, and waffle breakfasts for faculty and staff—back when all the faculty could fit inside a house. She still hires Bethel students to do yard work and help around the house.
As Nancy Lundquist stepped down from her role as first lady, she had some words of advice for her successor, Darleen Brushaber: “Don’t talk too much” and “Just be yourself.” As Darleen’s husband George assumed Bethel’s presidency in 1982, Darleen recalled those words, as well as Proverbs 3:5-6: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will direct your paths.” Both pieces of advice helped her. She, too, raised young children and hosted numerous gatherings in her home during her 26 years as first lady. Now, she and George still live close to the St. Paul campus, and often attend concerts, sporting events, and other Bethel gatherings.
Barb Barnes had worked in Bethel’s Academic and Enrichment Support Center (AESC) for eight years supervising Bethel’s tutors and encouraging students while her husband, Jay, served as provost. When Jay became Bethel’s fifth president just 18 months ago, she stepped down from her job so she could support her husband in his new role. Though her children are grown, Barb still finds plenty to do as Bethel’s current first lady.
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Bethel Magazine: What parts of your role or responsibilities as First Lady did/do you most appreciate?
were just going to town having a good conversation. They didn’t know the breakfast was over!
Nancy Lundquist: I liked the fact that the school was small enough at the beginning that we could really get to know the faculty and students. We did a lot of entertaining in our home. One time we had the faculty over for breakfast. After a couple hours, we thought everyone had gone, so we sat down to have our waffles and talk about how it went. Suddenly Carl said, “What’s the noise downstairs?” Turns out two faculty members
Darleen Brushaber: I most enjoyed the people, especially the donors. They are wonderfully supportive of Bethel. I also loved going to all the student events—concerts, games—which we still try to do as much as possible. Barb Barnes: I think I most appreciate just doing life together with Jay. We’re now together so much more, attending events, games, donor visits. We’ve always done life as a team, and this role really lets us do that. We definitely have less of our own personal time though, because we’re always on the go. BM: What humorous or embarrassing moments from your husband’s tenure stick out for you? NL: Someone had the bright idea of breaking ground for the new college with a horse and hand plow. A couple of students were to guide the plow and dig a short furrow. But something spooked the horse and he took off, dragging the plow after him, digging up a furrow you wouldn’t believe! The horse stopped when he tried to climb on the hood of the contractor’s car nearby. Fortunately, the horse was not injured, but Art Hage’s [Bethel alum (’53) who contracted the campus townhouses] car was another matter! DB: When we were first in the presidency, George spoke at many churches. Our son was in kindergarten or first grade at the time. We were sitting in the front of the church, and as my husband started to preach, my son said rather loudly, “I’ve heard this one before.” This was a little embarrassing to his dad, but at least our son was listening! BB: We’ve only been at this 18 months, so I’m sure there will be other humorous examples I could share in a few years. But during Jay’s installation service, President Emeritus George Brushaber and Board Chair Dan Lindh had difficulty with the clasp of the ceremonial gold medallion they were placing around Jay’s neck. Eventually they gave up and tied it in a knot. If you watch the video of the ceremony, you can see the faculty in the background rather amused by this.
Above left: Jay and Barb in 2008; above right: the Lundquist family in 1967; bottom: George and Darleen with children Don ’97 and Deanna ’91 in 1982
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How they met their husbands Nancy and Carl
BM: Each of your husbands has done much for Bethel. In your opinion, what are some of the biggest accomplishments? NL: Two important events during my husband’s presidency were bringing the college and seminary to accreditation, and of course, moving the campus. In the 50s and 60s, Bethel experienced phenomenal growth. We became aware of property in Arden Hills, which had been owned by the Dupont Corporation since 1913. But they were not interested in selling it. However, the BGC [Baptist General Conference, now Converge Worldwide] voted that we should proceed to look for land because the school was so crowded, and the very next day Carl received a call from Dupont saying they were now ready to sell, which was really amazing. They would sell us the property for an amount far below what they could have gotten from developers. This was a wonderful offer and we took it, even though we had to borrow funds to cover most of it. Carl used to say the whole process of building the new campus kept us on our knees. I like to call it, “God’s miracle on Lake Valentine.” DB: We’re so thankful for what George accomplished. Academics, student life, and faculty numbers all grew during his presidency. He was able to open up 19 new buildings on campus as well, including the Carl Lundquist Community Life Center and Benson Great Hall. He also helped raise more than $109 million for Bethel through the Taking the Next Step campaign. BM: The life of a university president is hectic. How were/are you able to take a break? NL: We took a week of vacation every summer with our children to various cabins on Minnesota lakes. This was probably the only time we really took for just ourselves. However, Carl was great at linking our vacations with opportunities to preach, to visit friends of Bethel, or to meet with other Christian leaders in a more informal setting. He was a great multitasker. DB: Bethel is always with you, by phone or in your thoughts. I don’t think we ever got away. George never took a sabbatical, and he didn’t take any vacations. He was pretty intense. At our farewell, our son shared that we never really went on vacation unless it was to a meeting, usually the annual meeting. And these meetings weren’t often held in the most exiting places. But, overall, I think our children really benefited from Bethel. There were always lots of adults around, so they became very comfortable with grownups, and this helped them mature. BB: Jay and I go up north to get away. Of course, he always has his computer and cell phone. We know that we can only get cell
met in French class at Sioux Falls College. “He sat right across the aisle, and he was so nice to me. He called me ‘Miss Nancy.’” But at the time, Carl had a girlfriend in California. Nevertheless, Nancy asked Carl to accompany her to a choir event. He did, and they enjoyed themselves. Carl then asked Nancy out every night during the last week of the semester. When they returned to college the next fall for class, there was no more girlfriend in California, recalls Nancy. The two had to wait three years until Carl completed seminary to get married—the seminary’s rule at the time.
Darleen and George
grew up in the same church and have known each other almost their entire lives. They began dating in junior high and never dated anyone else. Darleen went to college in Milwaukee and George in Chicago, but he’d drive to see her every weekend. Her father managed tickets for the Milwaukee arena, so for dates Darleen and George would go to basketball games or ice-skating shows—if they weren’t studying. “I suppose I always knew we’d marry, but he was a little slow in asking,” says Darleen jokingly. “I was the last of my friends to get married. He was trying to get through school, though. I guess that was his excuse!”
Barb and Jay
met at Deerfoot Lodge, a Christian wilderness camp for boys in the Adirondack Mountains. Jay was in charge of the counselor-training program, Barb a nurse. Throughout the summer, the two became friends. At the end of camp, Jay headed to Germany to teach at Black Forest Academy for a semester. As he boarded a plane, Barb told Jay she loved him; in response, he told her he couldn’t reciprocate that sentiment yet. But, after writing each other every day for the next four months, Jay too could express those feelings, and they both knew they would marry. Bethel University
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reception on top of the hill in Grand Marais, Minn., so we go to the top of the hill in the mornings and evenings to check messages. During the day, we canoe on remote lakes or hike in the woods. We are really restored after spending a couple days up north.
NL: I never dreamed I’d live to be 90 years old! You can’t imagine the changes that have taken place in that time. But God has kept me here for a purpose. I am discovering in this period of life that I am drawing so much closer to God. I have time to reflect on life, and I have more time to pray for others. DB: George knew in 2002 that at the end of his six-year term, he wouldn’t be asked to—or wouldn’t want to—continue because of his age. He was getting near 70. I don’t think he realized, and I did not realize, how really tired he was. But he’s actually adjusted much better to retirement than I ever thought he would. It’s probably been a bit more difficult for me because for so long my whole schedule was built around Bethel. And all of a sudden, there’s nothing. My calendar is empty. So it’s been an adjustment. BB: My schedule has actually gotten busier now. I used to work full time in the AESC office and now no longer do, but I’m still amazingly busy! BM: What advice do you have for current Bethel students? NL: I’d say that these are very important years in your life. You are really on your own to choose how you will live. You are making decisions that will affect your whole life, such as your depth of commitment to the Lord, choice of marriage partner, life profession. Eugene Peterson said it well, “Every movement we make in response to God has a ripple effect. The ripples just spill out and make history.” We are all history makers. You are a history maker. May God go with you on your journey. DB: Even in a Christian college, it is important to stay “close to the Lord” in intentional ways. It does not just happen without effort. Live out your faith with integrity. Walk it as well as talk it and sing it! Have fun, but fill your Bethel years with serious purpose, making the most of them. BB: When I worked in the AESC office, I knew so many students. I think that may be the one negative aspect to this new role: I don’t know as many students. To current students, I encourage them to get involved in things outside of class, whether it’s 36
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Above: Darleen and Bethel alumna Mary Pawlenty, wife of Minnesota Governor Tim Pawlenty, at Darleen’s farewell luncheon in spring 2008; top right: Barb at the 2K walk/5K run that helped celebrate Jay’s inauguration; bottom right: Carl and Nancy in 1982, the year Carl retired.
sports, music, ministry teams, Twin Cities Outreach, etc. And then after graduation, connect with a small group for support and spiritual encouragement. Surround yourself with a few friends that I like to call “3- or 4-in-the-morning friends”—someone you know is there and you can call on when life really happens. Don’t do life alone. BM: How can the Bethel community be praying for you? DB: Continue to pray for Bethel, and Jay and Barb. Many think it’s wonderful to be president of a school. In fact, some covet the position. But it’s a very difficult and time-consuming responsibility. There are many things that go on behind the scenes that are tough! But we’re confident in Jay. We hope Bethel stays on its mission and becomes a stronger and better school every year. Personally, I’ve been battling cancer throughout recent months. Many wonderful people have been incredibly supportive through cards and notes and calls. I’d certainly like to thank those who have been praying for me and ask for their continued prayers. BB: I ask for prayer to maintain balance in life. We want to work hard, but there is Sabbath rest also. And that people would clearly see what Bethel is—its mission and goals and vision. Pray that we, and all of the Bethel community, remain true to Bethel’s mission. Too many schools that were once rock solid in their faith commitment have gone by the wayside. I see that as one of Jay’s key roles—to guard the heart and soul of Bethel and not let us waver from our spiritual moorings. BU
2009
photo courtesy of the BGC History Center
BM: What’s life like for you now that your husband has passed on, retired, or taken on the role of president?
Alum News Bethel Magazine incorporates Alum News from all schools of Bethel University. (S) indicates news from Bethel Seminary alumni, (CAPS) indicates news from College of Adult & Professional Studies, and (GS) indicates news from Graduate School alumni. No indication is news from College of Arts & Sciences alumni.
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Edward Osborne Nelson ’37, S ’39, of Lakewood, Colo., passed away in Sep tember at the age of 95. He was the 2005 Bethel alumnus of the year. With his late wife Martha he pastored Converge Worldwide (formerly the Baptist General Conference) churches, and he was the Rocky Mountain district executive minister. He married Dorothy Nelson ’51 in 1976. He is survived by Dorothy and his children: Karen (Ron) Pryor, Gloria Nelson, Jane Somerville and Joy Tanner; seven grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.
Helen Bergfalk passed away in September, in Cambridge, Minn., at the age of 96. She served as a Converge Worldwide (BGC) missionary in Assam, Calcutta, and Bangalore, India (1949-1977), and then retired to her hometown of Rush City, Minn. She is survived by many nieces, nephews, and extended family.
1941 V. Elving Anderson ’41, S ’43, professor emeritus of genetics and cell biology and development at the University of Minnesota, was honored in September by the University of Minnesota and the Wilberforce Academy for his work in genetics and religion. President Emeritus Brushaber repre-
Eugene L. Johnson (1929-2010)
Bethel’s first teacher of art, Eugene L. Johnson, passed away on January 24, 2010. In 1948, he founded Bethel’s art department in the basement of the Snelling Avenue campus and continued to teach at Bethel for 34 years. Bethel’s Johnson Art Gallery is named in his honor. In 1979, he also founded Christians in Visual Arts, now a national organization with 1,300 members who explore and nurture the relationship between the visual arts and the Christian faith. He also owned and operated a studio and gallery called The Potter’s House. Says Wayne Roosa, department chair for the Bethel University Depar tment of Ar t: “His ability to lay his hands on something and mold it, even as he understood that we must never seize and force the things we mold with those hands; his understanding of this deep paradox and its beauty; his capacity to listen, wait, make, encourage, and build; all of this constitutes his legacy. A legacy that allows so many of us today to still be makers.” Johnson is preceded in death by his wife, Janet Johnson. He is survived by his three children: Barbara Lidfors ’71, Conny Spann ’90, and Bruce Johnson ’79 and his wife Lee C. Johnson.
“Measure our performance by what God accomplishes through our graduates after they have been prepared at Bethel to go out into the world to serve.” —John Alexis Edgren, Founder sented Bethel at the event and gave a tribute to Elving.
1942 J. Warren Johnson (S) passed away in December at the age of 89. He and his first wife, Ruth K. Olson ’39 pastored several Converge (BGC) churches in Minnesota. They also were Converge Worldwide (BGC) missionaries in India, Ethiopia, and the Philippines. While in India he was a hospital administrator and started the Bible Institute and Church Planting. Ruth passed away in 1988. He married Ruth E. Anderson ’71 in 1990. He is survived by his wife Ruth; children Tom (Eileen), Kristine (Cal) Otto, and Jornadine (Wendell) Christenson; nine grandchildren and many great-grandchildren. Margaret (Erickson) Swanson passed away in July at the age of 87. She was preceded in death by her husband of nearly 50 years, Glen (“Shine”) ’42, S ’50, and is survived by her children, Jeff ’72, Paul ’73, Daniel ’77, and Karen ’81, and nine grandchildren. Peggy and Shine served in Japan as Converge Worldwide (BGC) missionaries for 35 years.
her children: Amy (Dan), Kim (Bob), Tracy (Tim), Scott (Jennifer), Melissa; and 12 grandchildren. A Converge Worldwide (BGC) missionary in the Philippines for 39 years, she used her skills as a nurse to educate countless expectant mothers as well as nurses and physicians.
1958 On Easter 2002, Elizabeth M. Hope (formerly Hope Elizabeth Seffens Caldeen) was confirmed into the Catholic Church at Queen of Peace Catholic Church in Cloquet, Minn. Since then, she’s worked with the diocese of Duluth on its Evangelism Project and has written for the Duluth bishop. She teaches Bible studies and leads groups at Queen of Peace and the Holy Family Catholic Mission. She lives in the rectory at the mission on the Fond du Lac Indian Reservation and does Catholic outreach on the reservation.
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Horst Donath (S) died in August in Germany at the age of 85. He is survived by his son, Markus Donath (Sabine), daughters Ruth (Walter) Küster and Christine Donath, and five grandchildren.
Eunice Erickson, Converge Worldwide (BGC) and BGC Canada missionary, retired in August. She served in Ethiopia since 1968, working as a nurse in Ambo, Gendeberet, Bekoji, Guder, and Tokay Irensa. While in Tokay, she worked with National Clinic staff in establishing eight churches. Her Family Life Guidance ministry in rural church communities provided teaching on HIV/AIDS prevention and Christian family relationships. She now lives in Regina, Saskatchewan.
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Barbara A. (Wisey) Osbron passed away in September, after suffering a stroke. She is survived by her husband of 57 years, Gerald Osbron ’55,
(Leonard) Ray Sammons passed away suddenly in December at the age of 62. He is survived by his siblings Martin and Brenda, and five
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Alum News nieces. Ray was past president of the Payne Phalen District Council. He loved St. Paul and participated in many city projects.
1977 Donald E. Elmberg (S) passed away in December. He served in the Pacific Theater during WWII and suffered an injury that left his vision and hearing permanently impaired. He was ordained a Covenant minister and was a chaplain at the Hennepin County Rehabilitation Center and the Salvation Army Adult Rehab Center. He was predeceased by his wife Jean and his son Mark. He is survived by his daughter Dawn (John) Hannigan and two grandsons.
1978 Eric Johnson (S) and his wife Janet are returning to Mexico as Converge Worldwide (BGC) missionaries. They served there 1983-2002, but returned to the States to care for their aging parents. While in America, Eric worked for the Midwest Baptist Convention, now Converge MidAmerica, 2002-2007 as director of church mobilization. They will center their new ministry in the Reynosa, Mexico, area across the border from McAllen, Texas.
Lois Malcolm is associate professor of systematic theology at Luther Seminary, St. Paul, where she has been teaching since 1994. Her book, Holy Spirit: Creative Power in Our Lives, was recently published by Fortress Press.
1983 Pete and Patricia (Berthel) Mueller ’84 live in Chicago with their eight children: Pippin, Paxton, Perri, Pia, Paavo, Peton, Mulugetta, and Birtukan. In September the Chicago Tribune featured their story of adopting Mulugetta and Birtukan from Ethiopia. During the process of adoption, Pete lost his job, but they continued on. It took two plane trips to Ethiopia to complete the adoption, but now Patty homeschools all eight children in their Chicago home, and Pete has a new job.
1985 Steve and Carol Jean (Michaelson) Gallagher are in Papua New Guinea with Wycliffe Bible Translators. They just completed translating the New Testament, Genesis, and Exodus into the Bariai language. The dedication of the New Testament is slated for July. Lisa Harrell (GS ’98) received her master’s in counseling psychology and certificate in spiritual direction from Mars Hill Graduate School in Seattle. She has a private practice as a therapist and spiritual director in Vadnais Heights, Minn.
Dawn Eggen Mona was awarded $800 for her art by Korean Artists in July. Dawn and her husband Chris are teaching and painting in Annapolis, Md. They have three children.
1981 After earning her MA in Organizational Leadership from Northwestern College, and following a two-year stint in central Iowa, Joy (Banta) Carlson returned to Minnesota to continue her work as a freelance communication specialist. She lives in North Branch, Minn., with her husband Bruce.
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1986 Patricia Duininck is a missionary in the remote islands of the South Pacific, based on Western Samoa. An earthquake hit on October 1, and within minutes a tsunami followed and took out villages along the southeast coast. More than 126 perished, and many were left homeless. Patricia’s ministry base, mission ship, staff, and children were not harmed. They have teamed with the Red Cross and Feed the Hungry for relief efforts. To help, visit kellyduininck.org.
1989 Harpist Reuben Correa had an original composition nominated for best solo instrumental song in the “Just Plain Folks” music award for independent musicians. As a result, he performed in Nashville and was a finalist in the top 20 from a field of more than 10,000.
1990 Terry “Chip” Huber is dean of student engagement at Cornerstone University in Grand Rapids, Mich. Chip and his wife Ingrid are the parents of Olivia, 11, and Trey, 6.
1991 Donald Reed (S), executive minister for Converge PacWest (formerly Northern California Baptist Conference), retired in September. Prior to his time at PacWest he pastored Converge Worldwide (BGC) churches in Sioux Falls, S.D., and Santa Rosa, Calif. He served as the first full-time
Bethel alumni involved in ministry to Japanese attended the Midwest Reaching Japanese for Christ Conference in Chicago in October 2009. Pictured (left to right): Nancy (Upton) Nethercott ’79 and Paul Nethercott ’79, TEAM missionaries in Japan; Loren Friesen ’74, Roberta (Bjorklund) Evensen ’76, RJC Midwest Conference chairperson, and Don Wright ’64, founder, Reaching Japanese for Christ International. They joined 150 other participants from the United States and Canada.
executive minister of the Dakota Baptist Conference, now Converge Heartland.
1993 Abbigayle Jane was born in October to Brian and Cathi (Lewis) Dykes. They live in Palatine, Ill. Lars Thomas was born in June to Karsten and Joann (Allen) Nelson. He joins Magnus, 2.
1995 Steven Guest (S) successfully defended his dissertation, Deuteronomy 26:16-19 as the Central Focus of the Covenantal Framework of Deuteronomy, and graduated from the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in December. He and his wife Joan serve with The Evangelical Alliance Mission (T.E.A.M., Wheaton, Ill.), and anticipate joining the faculty of an evangelical seminary in India after raising enough support. Scotia Grace was born in July to Melanie and Scott Lundeen. They live in Denver where Scott works with Mile High Ministries.
1996 Noelle Irene was born in June to Aaron ’98 and Jody (Wynia) Boyd. Aaron is a union electrician w o r k in g in the Twin Cities area, and Jody works part time for Target Corporation in Minneapolis. They reside in Shoreview, Minn. Karen Cooper started the nonprofit Hope for Moses (hopeformosesfund. org) in 2007 to help abandoned children in Nigeria receive medical care. Moses, a child who most likely has cerebral palsy but hasn’t had a comprehensive assessment, arrived in the United States in October to receive pro-bono care from several medical providers throughout the Twin Cities.
Alum News Linnea Marie was born in June to Jason and Katie (Lindberg) ’95 Lind. She joins Kaleb, 7, and Micah, 5. Craig Nelson and his wife Debbie moved to Cold Spring, Minn., with Jonathan, 8, Clark, 6, and Estle, 4. He continues to work as a senior credit officer with AgStar Financial Services. Celia Grube was born to Diane Schulz in October 2008. They live in Falls Church, Va. Maia Grace was born in September to Kara (Points) and Alain Swanson. Both work at Bethel University: Kara is director of alumni and parent services, and Alain is the director of systems administration. Maia joins Luc, 4, and Logan, 2.
1997
Elizabeth Anne was born to Matthew and Cara Nelson ’98 in May. She joins Caleb, 6, and Abigail, 3. They live in Arden Hills, Minn. Matthew recently received the prestigious Fellowship Award from the Academy of General Dentistry—the only dentist in Minnesota to achieve this distinction in 2009. He graduated from the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry in 2000 and practices dentistry in Blaine, Minn. Todd Karsten ( c a l l e d “Karsten” by his family) was born in August t o To dd an d Kaaren (Wood) Swenson. Todd works for General Mills and Kaaren for United Healthcare. They live in Edina, Minn.
1998 Stewart Brown (S) just published Majesty in Motion: Creating an Encouragement Culture in all your R e l at i o n s h i p s with Word Alive Press. He lives with his wife Sandra in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. Tim Johnson (S) is associate professor of Old Testament and Hebrew at Nashotah House Theological Seminary in Nashotah, Wis. He also serves as an interim pastor for an Evangelical Free Church of America (EFCA) church in Beloit. He was ordained with the EFCA in 2007. He just published Now My Eye Sees You with Sheffield Phoenix Press, a book that offers a unique interpretation on the book of Job.
1999 David Colburn (S) is interim senior pastor at Bethel Missionary Baptist Church in Statesboro, Ga.
Jason Cutshall is director of European operations for Christian Associates, an organization that seeks to start Christian communities throughout Europe. He lives in Amsterdam. Janessa Evelyn was born in September to Chad and Pamela (Ogden) Martin. They live in Richfield, Minn. Matt Shirkey is serving as a U.S. Army chaplain with the 1-36 Infantry unit out of Ft. Bliss, Texas. He deployed with his unit to Mosul, Iraq, in November. His wife Carrie (Ritland) and children, Jackson, 5, Anika, 3, and Isaac, 1, will welcome him home in the fall. Lincoln Pattrick WeiMing Tsai was welcomed into his family in June. Allen, Andrea (Phinn ey) Tsai, and Nora, 3, live with him in Portland, Ore.
Kathryn Anne was born to Jeff and Joy (Tiller) Larson in August. They live in Coon Rapids, Minn.
Eve was born in March to Laura (Christensen) ’97 and Jonathan Watkins. She joins Micah, 8, Grace, 6, and Christian, 4. They live in Vadnais Heights, Minn.
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2001
Jude Asher was born in September to Penni (Christenson) and Nicolas Frank ’03. He joins big brother, Callias. The Frank family moved to Charlottesville, Va., where Nick is pursuing a Ph.D. in philosophy at the University of Virginia. Penni continues to work as an immigration attorney for Webber Law Firm, LLC.
Lauren Lorraine was born in May to Caroline (Anderson) ’96 and Matt Barnes. Matt is the owner of Enduring Finish Painting, a fullservice r e siden tial an d commercial painting company. Caroline is a reading recovery teacher and literary specialist for Wayzata Public Schools. They live in Brooklyn Park, Minn.
Lettie Elizabeth was born to Jodi (Nels o n) a n d Benjamin Clair ’01 in July on her mother ’s b i r t h d a y. She joins big sister Harper, 2. They recently relocated to Duluth, Minn., where Ben joined Orthopaedic Associates.
Kimberly Werner ’96, a current CAPS student (left), recently met Kimberly Werner ’10 (right)! The two Bethelites don’t share the same major, but their birthdays are in the same month. Shawn Bortel is a special education teacher at Simley High School in Inver Grove Heights, Minn. He and his wife Jennifer (Briggs) ’04 live in South St. Paul, Minn. with Tatum, 3, and Macey, 1. Garrett Christian was born to David and Vanessa (Beale) Gilbert in July. They live in Ham Lake, Minn. Jackson Paul was born in March to Paul and Kelsie (Anderson) McMahon. Paul is employed at Wells Fargo, and Kelsie is enjoying staying home w i t h Ja c k . They reside in Champlin, Minn.
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Homecoming 2010 October 15-17
Bethel University
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Alum News A Cup of Clean Water
On a short-term trip to the Philippines in 2001, Katie Toop ’00 saw children in the slums laughing and playing in the water from their new hand pump. It was that moment, she recalls, that she realized God’s heart is broken for children around the world who don’t have clean water. A Bethel physics major, she then spent a year getting her master’s in water and environmental management at Loughborough University’s Water, Engineering, and Development Centre (WEDC) in the United Kingdom, learning how to design and manage projects related to rural water supply, sanitation, solid waste, and hygiene education in developing countries. In a world where nearly a billion people lack access to safe drinking water, 2.4 billion don’t have access to adequate sanitation, and 30,000 die every day from preventable water-related diseases, opportunities to use her knowledge have proven endless. Following the devastating tsunami in December 2004, Toop spent a year in Sri Lanka with a relief group focused on water and hygiene projects. Now, she is in Central Asia serving as the Water and Sanitation Program Director for Joint Development Associates International, headquartered in Grand Junction, Colo. For 10 villages, she works on developing or improving water supplies, equipping community members to maintain them, and educating local women on the importance of hygiene. There are no easy answers in her humanitarian efforts, explains Toop. Lots of money and expensive hardware alone cannot solve water problems. “We need a holistic approach to projects if they’re going to work. That means considering social, economic, financial, educational, institutional, technical and environmental aspects,” she says. Toop, who was in President Jay Barnes’ freshman seminar class 14 years ago, was recently back in Minnesota and shared her experiences with the Bethel community in a January talk sponsored by Bethel’s Society of Physics Students.
2002 Jackson was born to Jeb and Deanna (Norberg) Cole in August. Jeb is serving in the U.S. Navy as a fighter pilot. They look forward to Jeb’s return during the spring of 2010. Anders Henrik was born to Tor and Libby (McCrery) Helgeson in October 2008. Prior to his arrival, Libby taught fourth and fifth grades for a combined five years. In 2008, Libby became a writing project trainer with Abydos Learning International, training other teachers in brain-based writing instruction. Now Libby is a stay-at-home mom and tutors elementary school students part time.
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Tor is a corporate pilot. They live in McKinney, Texas. Becca Olson is the sole owner and attorney at Rebecca M. Olson, PLLC, in Minneapolis. She received her law degree from St. Thomas School of Law in 2005. After practicing at a small estate planning firm for two and a half years, she’s focusing her new practice on helping individuals and families plan for the future with wills, trusts, healthcare directives, and powers of attorney. Sydney LaVonne was born to Derek and Katie (Wolfe) Scott in June. She joins big sister Ellie. They live in Colorado Springs, Colo.
weds live in White Bear Township, Minn.
Twin girls, Alayna Joy and Tirzah Lorraine, were born in October 2008 to Drew and Erica (Johnson) Whitson. They live in Lino Lakes, Minn. Gregory Woodard (S) was ordained by Converge Worldwide (BGC) in March. He completed training as a Navy chaplain in November and is on active duty as the station Protestant chaplain at Marine Corps Air Station in Yuma, Ariz.
2003 Avery Kay was born in July to Josh ’01 and Kim (Carlson) Agrimson. Avery’s twin sister, Lauren Anne, was stillborn. Josh is a dentist, and Kim is a stay-at-home mom. They live in River Falls, Wis. Twins John Walden and Joseph Alan were born in March to Christina (Sherwood) and Josh Hudson ’06. They live in Appleton, Wis. Logan John was born in October to Bryan and Megan (Heuer) Scheidler. They live in Altadena, Calif.
2004 Sofia Rosengr en married Joel Pettigrew in Alexandria, Minn., in September. They live in Watkinsville, Ga., where Joel is assistant vice president of Pettigrew Medical Billing Services, and Sofia is a dental hygienist.
2005 Bryan J. Hermerding married Katie Weber in July. Attendants included Winstead Kirkpatrick ’04, Merilee ’06, and Abbie Hermerding ’08. Bryan is a jail deputy for the Dakota County Sheriff’s Office. The newly-
Allison (Beatty) Maynard is the executive director of Open Pantry Community Services in Springfield, Mass. She oversees 28 employees who run a network of food and housing programs. Allison has a master’s degree in social work from Springfield College. She’s held several human service jobs and was a volunteer for AmeriCorps while at Springfield College. Monique Konta was born in September to Ndjouma Anastasie and Maurice Ndjouma. She joins Richard, 2. They live in Cameroon where Maurice teaches mathematics at the American School of Yaounde. Paul Schoolmeesters married Liza Johnson in April.
2006 Merilee Hermerding spent 10 months working with AmeriCorps doing various jobs, including hurricane cleanup and rebuilding with FEMA and Habitat for Humanity. Julie Nicholson and Kye Samuelson were married in July at House of Hope Presbyterian Church in St. Paul, followed by an outdoor reception in North Oaks, Minn., at the home of the bride’s parents, David and Barbara (Atkins) Nicholson ’71. Bethel alumni in the wedding included Ruthie Calvin Beahrs ’06, Rachel Fellman ’06, Jessica Dirks Lennartson ’06, Faith Norine Brue ’06, Emma Atkins ’10, Meghan Slothoubar ’06 and Chris Casselman ’06. Bethel musicians included Emma Atkins ’10, Christie Calvin ’08, Aaron Bumann ’06, and Michael Bumann ’06. Julie works for Governor Tim Pawlenty on his communications team. The groom is an MBA graduate student at the University of St. Thomas. They live in Birchwood, Minn. Katie Nierengarten married R yan Br own ’05 in September in Duluth, Minn. They live in Grand Rapids, Mich., where Katie is a physician’s assistant at St. Mary’s Hospital, and Ryan is an optometrist for the VA Hospital.
Alum News 2007 Emily (Hall) Anderson is a day treatment coordinator of the Fraser Child and Family Center. She lives in Coon Rapids, Minn. As a part of the master’s of social work program at the University of Minnesota, Christi Birkholz is interning at The Center for Victims of Torture, working with torture survivors in social rehabilitation and connecting them to community resources. She is also employed as a case manager at RESOURCE, Inc., connecting clients to chemical and mental health support services. Peter Caldwell is an employment readiness instructor for the Hmong American Partnership. He lives in Minneapolis. Anna Dadabo is a community living support specialist. She lives in Hopkins, Minn. Catherine Grace was born in April to Michael and Kalli Jo (Hubin) Huehn. They live in St. Paul, Minn., where Kalli is an intake assistant for Project Pathfinder, Inc. Rosemarie (Rosie) Osweiler (CAPS) died in September. She was a member of the Franciscan Sisters of Perpetual Adoration for a number of years, left the order in 1988, and settled in St. Paul. She worked as a business manager for various Twin Cities businesses, and her final job was working for Sara Lee Bakery Group. Jamie Salaski works with MFIP participants to increase employability. She plans to marry Tyler Leeper in June. Amy Stroman works as a housing resource specialist at the Women’s Housing Partnership of Simpson Housing Services. She and her husband Ryan Santoo live in Minneapolis. They hope eventually to move to Trinidad and Tobago, Ryan’s home country.
Paul Tommerdahl is a valuation supervisor for Advantus Capital Management. He and his wife Kelly (Kirkwood) live in Eagan, Minn.
2008 Katie Campana is a case manager at Boston Health Care Systems, Inc. Julie Anderson married Peter Eshenaur ’05 at Bethany Baptist Church in Roseville, Minn., in September. They live in Eagan, Minn. Mark Domaas is a first-year podiatry student at the Scholl College of Podiatric Medicine in North Chicago. Monica Gross married Charles Helland ’09 in August at Westminster Presbyterian Church in downtown Minneapolis. Charles is a personal trainer at Lifetime Fitness in St. Louis Park, Minn., an d M o nic a is finishing her master’s degree in acupuncture and oriental medicine at Northwestern Health Sciences University in Bloomington, Minn. They live in Minnetonka, Minn. Emily Kjesbo married Ryan Johnson in August. They live in St. Paul. Sabrina M. Rood (CAPS) is in her second year of full-time doctoral studies at Argosy University, Seattle, working toward her Ed.D. in counseling psychology and licensure as a psychologist in the state of Washington. In her practicum placement, Brina counsels clients at Affordable Counseling in Edmonds, serving those who do not have insurance and cannot afford the regular cost of therapy. She hopes to graduate in 2012 after completing her dissertation and a year-long internship. Emily (Holmes) Samsel is a case manager for Pinnacle Services in Minneapolis.
While Bethel strives for accuracy in all it does, we cannot be responsible for the content of news items submitted by alumni. The inclusion of news items here should not be construed as an endorsement of their content by Bethel Magazine or Bethel University.
Now Accepting Nominations! Alumnus/Alumna of the Year Award Know an outstanding Bethel alumnus who is a Christ-follower, character-builder, truth-seeker, learner, reconciler, salt and light, world-changer? Each year a graduate who exemplifies Bethel’s core values is honored during homecoming. Graduates of all schools, including the College of Arts & Sciences, the seminary, the College of Adult & Professional Studies, and the Graduate School are eligible. Nominate someone today at bethel.edu/ alumni/awards. Questions? Email Kara Swanson, director of alumni and parent services, at kara-swanson@bethel.edu.
2009 In August Andrew Carmichael began his studies at the West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine in Lewisburg, W. Va. Jenna Cordova works for Segue, a nonprofit Christian coffee shop in Osseo, Minn. Melissa Kolsrud married Aaron Montello ’06 in January at Hope Church in Richfield, Minn. They live in Columbus, Ohio, while Aaron pursues a Ph.D. in mechanical engineering at Ohio State, and Melissa works for Ohio Christian University. Megan Kuenzel is a social worker with New Life Family Services, working mainly with the Latino Services part of the ministry.
Kate (Erickson) Moist works for Choice, Inc., a vocational day program for adults with disabilities. She and her husband Nathaniel live in Otsego, Minn. Sarah Olsen works for Meridian Services as a contracted case manager for Hennepin County and a care coordinator for Blue Cross Blue Shield of Minnesota, serving people who have disabilities. Roger Peterson (CAPS) recently published a missions book as part of his work as director of STEM International. The book, These Words Changed Everything, written by David Aielts, tells about a near 50-year ministry to a fierce insular tribe of the Mayan people by missionaries Ken and Elaine Jacobs.
Read story of Alum Eric Johnson ’01
Take advantage of your Alumni Benefits!
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“We spent three days and two nights away from a crowded, foreign environment to be surrounded only by the calm quiet of the Sahara. We took a long camel ride over the dunes; Moroccan children led the way and practiced their English by sharing with us the names of our camels, all who happened to be called Bob Marley.”
Megan Fink ’10 traveled to Meknes, Morocco, in the spring of 2009, taking classes in the Arabic language, culture, and religion for her reconciliation studies major. She will also major in Third World studies.