April 3, 2006

LINDSBORG, Kan.--The executive committee of the Bethany College Board of Directors has approved the appointment of Kurt Meyer as interim vice president of institutional advancement at Bethany College effective April 17, filling a position currently held by Karen Humphrey.

Meyer will temporarily replace the outgoing vice president, who has accepted a position as senior major gifts officer for the Minnesota Historical Society, St. Paul, Minn.

"We are sad to see Karen go, as she has accomplished much for Bethany and become our dear friend," said Paul Formo, president of the college. "But we are very happy for her, too, as the historical society is an important institution that she cherishes. We wish her all the best."

Humphrey began working at Bethany College in 1998 as planned giving officer. She became vice president of institutional advancement in 2002.

"I am excited about the future of Bethany College," Humphrey said. "I am proud to be associated with the college. It is an exciting place with an important mission."

Humphrey has been associated with the Minnesota Historical Society since 1970. She served as the chair of the organization’s board from 1996 to 1998.

Humphrey’s accomplishments include providing senior staff support for the Reaching Higher campaign, Bethany’s first successful development campaign in 20 years. The $8.5-million, three-year campaign exceeded its $7-million goal.

Humphrey also chaired the college’s 125th anniversary commission and served as coordinator of the Pearson Distinguished Professor of Swedish Studies program.

Humphrey will serve in her current role through April 16.

While a search is conducted for Humphrey’s replacement, Meyer will serve as interim vice president. Meyer has a long association with Bethany College, having served as a consultant on the Reaching Higher campaign. He has 25 years of development experience and deep connections with the Lutheran donor community.

"We have asked Kurt to come on board, knowing that he will provide stability in leadership and excellence in building relationships and developing major gifts. This will give our staff the freedom to focus on a successful conclusion to the annual fund," Formo said.

The Bethany College fiscal year ends June 30. Meyer will serve as interim vice president at least through the end of the fiscal year.

With the change in staff leadership, the college also has opted to appoint Jennifer Greenup interim alumni director, effective immediately.

Greenup, a 1984 graduate of Bethany College, has served as associate director of development since August. Greenup previously worked as Bethany College counselor since 1997.

"Jen knows our alumni, and she knows the development office. Her gifts are well-suited to leading the alumni office. It is our highest priority to keep our alumni connected with the college, so it is in our best interests to fill the alumni director position with an experienced staffer until the permanent vice president is on board," Formo said.

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 lead lives of faith, learning and service.

-30-

CONTACT: Colene Lind, (785) 227-3311, ext. 8122