Bethany College Takes Bold New Step to Empower Rural Student Leaders

LINDSBORG, Kan. May 28, 2026 - Bethany College today announced its bold investment in the future of rural communities through its new First 4U Scholarship, a program designed to support students who demonstrate determination, curiosity, service, and a commitment to strengthening smalltown America.

The scholarship initiative is focused primarily on first-time freshmen from communities with populations under 10,000 and seeks students who are engaged, creative, entrepreneurial, and already making a difference through school, church, work, volunteerism, or other community-building efforts. While the scholarship considers first-generation college status as part of its criteria, the program ultimately seeks students who embody the values and mission of Bethany College.

Currently, four students have officially been awarded the First 4U Scholarship for the upcoming academic year, with the College actively working with additional prospective students who align with the program’s vision and goals.

“The First 4U Scholarship reflects Bethany College’s longstanding commitment to rural students and the communities that shaped them,” said Bethany College President Laura Crawley. “These students bring grit, compassion, and leadership potential to campus. We want them to know that their stories matter, their communities matter, and their future matters.”

Thanks to the generous support of an alumnus who came to Bethany College from a small town himself, the scholarship was established to help make a Bethany education more affordable while creating opportunities for mentorship, leadership development, and long-term student success. First 4U Scholars receive renewable scholarship support in combination with other institutional aid, with total scholarship assistance capped at $30,000 annually. In addition to financial support, scholars participate in a four year educational experience centered on vocation, leadership, service, and belonging.

“Every student who comes to Bethany College needs someone who believes in them and invests in their future,” said Dr. Tash Smith, Academic Dean of Bethany College. “The First 4U Scholarship creates opportunities for students to say ‘yes’ to college. In turn, we hope they will take what they learn at Bethany College and use it to build careers that strengthen our rural communities across the country.”

The First 4U Scholarship closely aligns with Bethany College’s mission to educate students for meaningful lives of leadership, service, and faith-informed vocation. Through the program, students are encouraged not only to pursue academic excellence, but also to consider how their education can positively impact their hometowns and communities. Three of the four recipients are from Kansas including: Lyons, KS; Norton, KS; and Ulysses, KS.

Students interested in learning more about the First 4U Scholarship and admission opportunities at Bethany College can visit Bethany College Admissions.

About Bethany College

Bethany College (bethanylb.edu) is a higher educational institution located in Lindsborg, Kansas. Bethany College was established by Swedish Lutheran immigrants in 1881. For more than 140 years, Bethany College has been dedicated to educating, developing, and challenging individuals to pursue truth and excellence while leading lives of faith, learning, and service. At Bethany College, students join a community of dedicated educators and caring mentors who support them as they discover, explore, and navigate their purpose. Bethany College is affiliated with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.

CONTACT:

Christie Denniston, APR

Vice President of Strategic Engagement

303-827-5164

Bethany College

335 East Swensson Street

Lindsborg, KS 67456