Bethany College Exceeds $500K Fundraising Goal

Jan 19, 2024

LINDSBORG, KAN. JAN. 19, 2024 - Bethany College proudly announces the surpassing of its matching fund goal, thanks to the generous backing of an anonymous benefactor. The groundbreaking matching fund of $500,000, unveiled on November 14, 2023, has propelled the institution to reach a total of $1,040,307, achieving this milestone in December 2023. 


This transformative matching fund, dedicated to fortifying the college's endowment, has effectively doubled the impact of every dollar contributed by the community. Jacob Spilker, Vice President of Advancement, expresses sincere gratitude to everyone who contributed to Bethany's success. "We are profoundly grateful to our anonymous donor whose vision and generosity have set us on this path of success. The outpouring of love and support from our community, alumni, and friends has been overwhelming. Together, we have made a lasting impact on the future of Bethany College." 


In his statement, Interim President Steve Eckman, reflects on the incredible achievement, stating, "In just a few weeks, I've witnessed the extraordinary support this community has for Bethany College. It's truly impressive and speaks volumes about the dedication of our alumni, friends, and community members." 

 

Bethany College invites continued participation in this meaningful campaign through the June 30, 2024, end date. To contribute, please visit bethanylb.edu/give and select the designation "the Fund for Bethany." 

 

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 educate, develop, and challenge individuals to reach for truth and excellence as they lead lives of faith, learning, and service. At Bethany, students join a community of dedicated educators and caring mentors who walk alongside them as they discover, explore, and navigate the path to their purpose. Bethany College is online at bethanylb.edu and is located in Lindsborg, Kansas, the fine arts and crafts capital of the state. 


03 May, 2024
Bethany College conferred degrees upon 99 students in Presser Hall Auditorium on April 27, 2024. The ceremony honored students who earned Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Music, and Bachelor of Music Education from the college during the 2023-2024 academic year. Summer, fall, and spring graduates were honored during a Baccalaureate worship service at 10:30 a.m. in Presser Hall, followed by Commencement at 2 p.m. Campus Pastor Melissa Woeppel led the Baccalaureate Service, and Rev. Lamont Wells, Executive Director of the Network of Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) and Co llege and Universities (NECU). Gracelyn Gaskill '24, a chemistry and music major from Lindsborg, Kansas, provided special music for Commencement. Senior class speakers Inioluwa "Enoch" Ojo '24, a biology major from Katy, Texas, and Benjamin "Ben" Turner '24, a History and Political Science Major from Peyton, Colorado, gave thoughtful remarks on their time at Bethany College, taking time to thank their friends, faculty, and coaches. Dr. Brent Mai '85, Dean of University Libraries at Wichita State University, gave the commencement address, encouraging this year's graduates to go out into the world and exercise the four tenets of stoicism: wisdom, courage, temperance, and justice.
Assistant Professor Danielle Loder teaches students in Nelsons Science Center Classroom
03 May, 2024
Interim President Steve Eckman commended the efforts of the faculty and staff in securing the grant, stating, "We are immensely grateful to the McPherson County Community Foundation for their incredible generosity. This grant will benefit our students and enrich the educational experiences available in the Smoky Valley community."
30 Apr, 2024
The newly appointed Presidential Search Committee will commence their work immediately, aiming to recommend a candidate for Bethany College's 16th president to the board by the April 2025 board meeting.
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