Published: Wednesday, June 27, 2007 3:10 PM CDT  Courtesy: McPherson Sentinel's Sentinet

LINDSBORG -- More than 156 Saline and McPherson County residents have answered a challenge to increase their annual-fund giving to Bethany College this fiscal year, for a total of $36,834 in new gifts to the college.

In January, Bethany launched its annual Bethany in Kansas local campaign with a challenge from several friends of the college. The group collectively pledged to match new or increased gifts to the annual fund from Saline and McPherson County residents, up to $40,000.

As of June 12, 156 giving units from Saline and McPherson counties had increased their unrestricted giving to Bethany as compared to last year.

Bethany College's fiscal year ends June 30.

“This is wonderful news for Bethany and Bethany students. It is very affirming to have strong support from the local community. It shows a deep level of commitment and care for the college,” said Bethany interim president Dr. Robert Vogel.

“We don't want to leave any of the challenge on the table. I strongly encourage all Saline and McPherson county residents to seize this opportunity to make an even more meaningful gift to Bethany College students,” said Colene Lind, interim vice president for institutional advancement.

Those contributing to the challenge include John Altenborg, Lindsborg; Don and Dorene Anderson, Lindsborg; Roy and Donice Applequist, Salina; Virgil Augustine and Noni Strand, Salina; Leon and Judy Burch, Lindsborg; Maleta Forsberg, Lindsborg; Bill and Carol Gusenius, Lindsborg; Stephen and Jennifer Kinzel, McPherson; Greg and Susan Lundstrom, Lindsborg; Joyce Pigge, Lindsborg; Ron and Marsha Rolander, Lindsborg; Ken and Marilyn Sjogren, Lindsborg; and Robert and Sally Vogel.

Strong annual-fund giving from the local community supports Bethany students in their education and creates a solid foundation for Bethany's incoming president.

The Bethany College annual fund is used to support yearly educational expenses, including student financial aid, classroom and library resources, and other teaching material.

Dr. Ed Leonard begins as Bethany's 13th president on Aug. 1.

In addition to helping Bethany students, annual-fund gifts make a difference in the area's economy. Bethany employs more than 135 people who live and trade in the Smoky Valley.

For information on how to contribute to Bethany College, call (785) 227-3311, ext. 8122.

Bethany College, established by Swedish Lutheran immigrants in 1881, is a college of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. The mission of Bethany College is to nurture and challenge individuals in their search for truth and meaning as they live lives of faith, learning and service.