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The Path to Your Purpose
BETHANY COLLEGE ANNOUNCES UPDATES IN RESPONSE TO COVID-19 PRECAUTIONS
March 20, 2020
LINDSBORG, KANSAS, MARCH 20, 2020: Bethany College officials announced an extended Spring Break, starting at the end of classes, March 13, 2020. Classes are scheduled to resume March 30. Previously, the College intended to make a formal announcement March 25 but because this situation has changed so fast, is doing so at this time. Please understand, the fluid changes in the local and state health guidelines, make timely communication difficult. The college website will be used to provide the most current information, so please visit www.bethanylb.edu/coronavirus/ for updates.
Although spring break started one week early, Bethany College students have had the opportunity to stay in residence halls through the two-week break. Campus administrative offices and residence halls remain open and most services, such as counseling, tutoring, student life, and health are available for the duration of the spring semester. Library services and classrooms are slightly modified for the time being. In regard to academics, students who don’t wish to return, will be able to continue their spring semester learning through a virtual classroom option as of March 30, or as soon thereafter as possible.
Any student, faculty or staff member who has traveled will be subject to all local and state health guidelines in effect upon their return. Individual arrangements will be necessary for self-quarantine as Bethany College is not in a position to assist with such requirement. Dr. Van Dusen, Dean of Student Development, communicated by email to all students the preliminary details about gathering personal property from campus, safety precautions for returning to campus, and more, but because the procedures are subject to health guidelines they are likely to change.
Fortunately, class sizes at Bethany rarely exceed 25, and while all students will have the option for virtual attendance, some students may have the opportunity (subject to health guidance such as social distancing etc.) to resume face to face classes.
While administrative offices are open at this time, please refrain from coming to campus unless a physical visit is absolutely necessary. Most, if not all, business can be conducted by phone or email. To locate phone extensions or emails visit /directory/.
Currently, the College is prohibiting the use of the student union “Pit” area (Pihlblad lower level), and other common areas, even if the building is open. Hahn and Stroble Gibson gyms, and the cardio and weight rooms are closed.
At this time, there are no cases of COVID-19 on Bethany College campus or in McPherson County. In understanding our role and responsibility, campus leadership has learned that if a test for COVID-19 was to be completed, the state agency, Kansas Department of Health and Environment communicates with the McPherson County Health Department and it is the procedure of health officials that dictates the release of information and/or results as deemed appropriate. It is imperative that Bethany College cooperates with all health officials and remains mindful of HIPAA and other protocol to ensure the privacy and safety of campus and the larger community.
Campus leadership acknowledges that several questions remain unanswered and will work diligently to find answers despite the fluidity of the situation. In this unprecedented time, decisions must be made in accordance to health guidelines, and in deference to the health and safety of all and we appreciate your support and understanding.
LINDSBORG, KS. MAR. 28, 2025 — Bethany College raised $168,167.87 during its annual Giving Day campaign this year, with every dollar going directly to student scholarships. The support ensures more students can afford a Bethany education and take part in the life-changing opportunities that come with it. This year, the Bethany Backers campaign ran separately. Combined, both efforts brought in a total of over $240,000, surpassing last year’s collective giving total and underscoring the strong support from the Bethany and Lindsborg community. “Both Giving Day and the Bethany Backers campaign have been an incredible success,” said Hayley Samford, Director of Alumni Development and Engagement. “We are incredibly grateful for the continued generosity of our alumni, friends, and supporters. We’re excited to use these funds to support the students who are here now—and those who will be joining the Bethany family soon.” If you are interested in giving and supporting Bethany College’s mission, please click here . Bethany College is a liberal arts institution located in Lindsborg, Kansas, and was established by Swedish Lutheran immigrants in 1881. For over 140 years, Bethany has been dedicated to educating, developing, and challenging individuals to pursue truth and excellence while leading lives of faith, learning, and service. At Bethany, 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.
LINDSBORG, KS. MAR. 27, 2025 — Students in Professor James Baker’s Elementary Social Studies Methods class had a unique opportunity to hear from distinguished guest speakers, the Honorable John Carlin and Bethany College alumnus Ryon Carey '95, during a recent session focused on history, government, and education. The event brought together students from both Professor Baker’s course and Dr. Rana Razek’s class for an engaging discussion on the branches of government, the role of the U.S. Department of Education, and the importance of civic understanding in the classroom. Governor Carlin, who also served as the Archivist of the United States following his tenure as Kansas Governor, offered students a personal perspective on his career in public service and shared insights into the responsibilities of preserving key national documents such as the U.S. Constitution and the Bill of Rights. His reflections underscored the value of historical records in shaping democracy and educating future generations. Ryon Carey, a 1995 Bethany graduate, also contributed to the discussion, offering his perspective on leadership and public service. “It was a privilege to welcome Governor Carlin and Ryon Carey to speak with our students,” said Professor James Baker. “Opportunities like this deepen our students’ understanding of the material and remind us all of the importance of connecting real-world experience to classroom learning. I’m incredibly grateful to both of our speakers for sharing their time and insights.” You can learn more about our Education Department at bethanylb.edu/education . Bethany College is a liberal arts institution located in Lindsborg, Kansas, and was established by Swedish Lutheran immigrants in 1881. For over 140 years, Bethany has been dedicated to educating, developing, and challenging individuals to pursue truth and excellence while leading lives of faith, learning, and service. At Bethany, 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.
LINDSBORG, KS. MAR. 25, 2025 — Bethany Backers has achieved its most successful fundraising effort to date, raising more than $72,000—more than double any previous year’s total. Thanks to the generosity of over 200 donors, these funds will directly enhance the student experience at Bethany College. Each year, Bethany Backers selects a project based on student suggestions, with donations traditionally starting at $50. A portion of the funds raised also supports student scholarships. Past projects have included creating a mock courtroom for criminal justice students, adding additional seating in campus greenspaces, and purchasing games for common areas. The first project funded by this record-breaking total will be the purchase of new cardio equipment for the college’s fitness center, providing students with upgraded resources to support their health and wellness. Additionally, because of the unprecedented amount raised, Bethany Backers will be able to complete a second project, which will be determined through a vote among this year’s donors. “On behalf of the Bethany College Alumni Association, I want to extend my enthusiastic gratitude to every Bethany Backer who contributed to the 2025 “Swedes Around The World” campaign,” said Olivia Peterson, President of the Bethany College Alumni Association and a 2013 graduate. “This year marked our most ambitious project yet, and our alumni and friends exceeded our goals! Not only will this effort provide upgraded training tools for our student-athletes but, most importantly, it will encourage and motivate all students to move their bodies!” Peterson continued, “I especially want to thank Kelly and Alan Clayton for the generous $10,000 matching grant opportunity and Angie Gaeddert for her wonderful $25,000 gift in honor of her late husband, Dr. Wade Gaeddert. Their generosity inspired others to give and helped us fund the project in full. I am humbled by the collective spirit and commitment of our community. Bethany has shaped us all—and now, we’re ensuring that future generations of Swedes have access to the same transformative experiences. The future is bright, friends! Tusen täck!” The goal is to have both projects ready to launch when students return to campus this fall. Bethany Backers extends its heartfelt gratitude to all who contributed, making this milestone achievement possible. For more information about Alumni projects and how to get involved, visit bethanylb.edu/alumni Bethany College is a liberal arts institution located in Lindsborg, Kansas, and was established by Swedish Lutheran immigrants in 1881. For over 140 years, Bethany has been dedicated to educating, developing, and challenging individuals to pursue truth and excellence while leading lives of faith, learning, and service. At Bethany, 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.