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Bethel University to Hold Inauguration of Dee McDonald, Ph.D.

by Lissa (Grashorn) Diaz '07 | Nov 6, 2025

LaMorris Crawford, Chaplain of the Carolina Panthers, to Speak

Bethel University will inaugurate Dee McDonald, Ph.D., as its ninth president on Friday, Nov. 14 at 10 a.m. in the Everest-Rohrer Chapel/Fine Arts Center – Auditorium, in a ceremony that will honor the past while looking to the future. LaMorris Crawford, Chaplain of the Carolina Panthers, will give the inaugural address. An Afternoon Tea will be served from 3-4:30 p.m. in the Everest-Rohrer Rotunda, where guests may greet the president. Both events are free and open to friends of Bethel.

On April 28, 2025, the Bethel University board of trustees unanimously voted to appoint McDonald as president, and he began his tenure on July 1, 2025.

McDonald is in his 20th year of leadership in Christian higher education, most recently as Vice President for Enrollment and Marketing at Crown College in St. Bonifacius, Minn. He has a history of strong enrollment growth and building high-performing teams at the four CCCU (Council for Christian Colleges & Universities) institutions he’s served.

He earned a Ph.D. in Organizational Leadership from Southeastern University (Lakeland, Fla.), studying the relationship between authentic leadership, authentic followership and organizational commitment within Christian Higher Education; an MBA from Olivet Nazarene University (Bourbonnais, Ill.); and a Bachelor of Science degree in Social Science Education, also from Olivet.

The presidential inauguration is part of Bethel’s Homecoming weekend. See below for a full schedule of events which are open to the public. For more information about the inauguration visit our website. For more information about homecoming events and to sign up, visit Homecoming Weekend 2025.

Friday, November 14

10 a.m. | Inauguration – Everest-Rohrer Fine Arts Center – Auditorium
Bethel University will celebrate the inauguration of its 9th president, Dr. Dee McDonald, in a formal event that honors the past while looking to the future. FREE

1 p.m. | Historical Presentation – Taylor Memorial Log Chapel
Join Bethel Trustee and former Vice President Dennis Engbrecht for an engaging presentation about Bethel’s early years and the people, faith and vision that helped shape our university. FREE

1:30 p.m. | Campus Tours – Meet at the Van & Jean Gates Welcome Center
Discover Bethel’s campus on a guided tour led by student ambassadors. Experience the beautiful, park-like campus and engaging community firsthand. FREE

2 p.m. | Afternoon Tea – Everest-Rohrer Fine Arts Center – Rotunda
This event will be held in the Everest-Rohrer Fine Arts Center – Rotunda and will be a meet-and-greet style “high tea,” including tea and delectable refreshments. Alumni, friends, faculty and staff are encouraged to attend this FREE event!

5 p.m. | “Into the Woods” Character Dinner and Show – Dining Commons (ticketed)
Enjoy dinner with “Into the Woods” characters before the evening performance. Includes Chicken Finger Friday meal and show tickets.

7 p.m. | Musical “Into the Woods” – Everest-Rohrer Fine Arts Center – Auditorium (ticketed)
“Into the Woods”, with music and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim, follows Cinderella, Jack, Little Red Riding Hood, and a Baker and his Wife as they journey into the forest to make their wishes come true. But happily ever after doesn’t come without a price. With rich music, sharp wit and unexpected twists, this Tony Award-winning classic explores what happens after “once upon a time.” Purchase tickets

Saturday, November 15

12 p.m. | Hoops and Hot Dogs – Wiekamp Athletic Center
We’re giving free hot dogs and admission for alumni and their families to watch our men’s and women’s basketball games.

12 p.m. | Women’s Basketball – Wiekamp Athletic Center – Gates Gymnasium
Cheer on the Lady Pilots as they take on Rochester Christian University in Gates Gymnasium.

1 p.m. | Musical – “Into the Woods” – Everest-Rohrer Fine Arts Center – Auditorium (ticketed)
“Into the Woods”, with music and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim, follows Cinderella, Jack, Little Red Riding Hood, and a Baker and his Wife as they journey into the forest to make their wishes come true. But happily ever after doesn’t come without a price. With rich music, sharp wit and unexpected twists, this Tony Award-winning classic explores what happens after “once upon a time.” Purchase tickets at Tickets.BethelUniversity.edu.

2 p.m. | Men’s Basketball – Wiekamp Athletic Center – Gates Gymnasium
Cheer on the Pilots as they take on Saint Xavier University (Ill.) in Gates Gymnasium.

New K-12, Higher Education Partnership Creates Seamless Pathway for Students to Transfer to Bethel University

by Lissa (Grashorn) Diaz '07 | Oct 28, 2025

Bethel University is pleased to partner with the Indiana Department of Education on a new faith-based academic pathway for high school students to complete diploma requirements while earning up to 30 transferable college credits.

The Professional Pathway credential, announced October 14 by Indiana Secretary of Education Dr. Katie Jenner, expands early college opportunities and provides students with additional options to complete their first year of college while still in high school. This credential was created in partnership with six Council for Christian Colleges and Universities (CCCU) institutions: Bethel University, Anderson University, Grace College, Huntington University, Indiana Wesleyan University and Taylor University.

“As we seek to maximize the four years of high school, this is yet another option for students to earn guaranteed currency before ever leaving high school and get a jumpstart on their future,” says Jenner.

Indiana high schools can partner with any of the six institutions to offer the credential, which will then seamlessly transfer to all. It is anticipated that this credential will be primarily offered through Indiana’s faith-based high schools as they expand their existing partnerships with faith-based higher education institutions, increasing access to Indiana’s honors plus seals, regardless of where a student attends school.

Representing Bethel at the announcement was Dr. Joel Johnson, Vice President for University Advancement.

Through the new Professional Pathway credential, students can complete a minimum of 30 credits of specified general education courses, with all credits fully transferable as a “block” among the six participating private institutions. The credits are specifically designed to support students in building essential knowledge and skills, ranging from communication and civic literacy skills that will benefit students regardless of their chosen career, to specific technical and industry skills. Completing this credential of value also puts students one step closer to earning Indiana’s new Enrollment Honors Plus and the Employment Honors Plus diploma seals.

If a student completes any portion of the 30 credits, all six institutions will also accept the individual course credits as equivalencies or elective credit, to be determined on a course-by-course basis. AP credits earned in courses equivalent to the courses making up the credential can also be counted in the 30-credit block, with a maximum of 15 credits from AP.

“This partnership is an exciting opportunity for Indiana students,” says Abson Joseph, Ph.D., Vice President for Academic Affairs and Chief Academic Officer. “Bethel is already transfer-friendly and our REACH program allows high school students to earn college credit while working toward their diploma; however, the Professional Pathway Credential will expand these efforts even further.”

Photo: Leaders from Anderson University, Bethel University, Grace College, Huntington University and Indiana Wesleyan University joined Taylor University, Indiana Secretary of Education Katie Jenner and President of Independent Colleges of Indiana Dottie King for this historic announcement.

Bethel University Department of Music and Theatre Presents: “Into the Woods!”

by Bethel University Public Relations | Oct 27, 2025

The Bethel University Department of Music and Theatre presents: “Into the Woods,” with music and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim, book by James Lapine; originally directed on Broadway by James Lapine; orchestrations by Jonathan Tunick.

Performances will be held on Friday, November 7 and 14 at 7 p.m. and Saturday, November 8 and 15 at 1 p.m. in the Everest-Rohrer Auditorium on the campus of Bethel University.

Featuring unforgettable songs, twists on classic tales and a story that’s as funny as it is moving, “Into the Woods” brings favorite fairy tales together. Join Bethel University for Stephen Sondheim’s hilarious and moving musical journey through wishes, giants and the consequences of “happily ever after”.

Tickets are $20 for adults, $15 for students and seniors and $10 for children 10 and under. Get tickets today at Tickets.BethelUniversity.edu.

Women’s Golf Wins Fourth NCCAA National Title in Five Years; Unwin Named 2025 Dan & Kelly Wood Award Winner for NCCAA

by Bethel University Athletics | Oct 23, 2025

Bethel University’s Women’s Golf Team won their fourth NCCAA (National Christian College Athletic Association) National Championship in five years, winning by 26 strokes over runner-up Wayland Baptist (Texas), with a final team score of 311. This brings Bethel Pilot Athletics to 53 team national championships.

“This group of ladies never ceases to amaze me,” said Bethel coach Christopher Hess. “We didn’t have our best in the opening round, but we absolutely grinded our way to stay in contention,” added Hess. “In that critical moment going into the back nine – when it was now or never, all 5 of our players decided it was NOW, and they blitzed the field the rest of the way and really never looked back. I am so happy for this group of ladies because all season long, each and every one of them stepped up in a big way. They do that because they are very talented, but even more so, they show up because of a love that they have for each other. We are not defined by a score, a win or even a championship but in these moments, win or lose, we will always give God the glory!”

Bethel finished with three players in the top seven individually, all earning All-American honors, led by Selah Unwin’s 82-72-78-232 (third place), Izzy Aigner’s 80-77-77-324 (fourth place) and Ellie Webster’s 78-79-79-236 (seventh place). Christopher Hess was also named the NCCAA National Coach of the Year, his fourth honor in the last five years.

For Unwin, extra baggage will be required for the return flight home as she racked up a lot of hardware. The tournament was an accumulation of an incredible four-year-run that includes two NCCAA Scholar Athlete awards, 3 NCCAA National Championships and four NCCAA All-American honors.

Unwin was also named the 2025 NCCAA Dan & Kelly Wood Award recipient.

She shared, “Each practice session, each tournament, each shot hit prepared us to compete at this national championship. We all showed up as a team for three competitive days and finished strong. To God be the glory.”

Read the full release at BUPilots.com.

Bethel University to Hold Future Educator Day Visit

by Lissa (Grashorn) Diaz '07 | Oct 15, 2025

Bethel University will host its first Future Educator Visit Day on Friday, November 7 from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. High school juniors and seniors are invited to step into their calling and see how Bethel’s Christ-centered education program will prepare them to make a difference in the classroom and beyond. Students can learn more and register for this free visit at BethelUniversity.edu/FutureEducatorDay. This visit day qualifies students entering Fall 2026 for a $2,000 Visit Scholarship.

“We are looking forward to Future Educator Day and the opportunity to share how you can shape the future and empower students to create their own dreams,” says Jim Bennett, Ed.D., Program Director and Department Chair for Education. “We know that teaching is more than just a job; it is one of the most vital professions for instilling hope in tomorrow’s leaders and creating positive change in the world. We are looking for the next generation of passionate and dedicated educators who will inspire and empower students. Our Future Educator Day is the perfect opportunity for you to discover how you can turn your desire to make a difference into a rewarding career.”

The day will include donuts, a campus tour, chapel, an opportunity to meet the faculty, lunch in the Dining Commons and a student panel Q&A. Students will also learn about CALP (Certified Academic Language Practitioner) certification, an opportunity available to education graduates. Bethel is the first university in the nation to offer this certification at the undergraduate level, better positioning students for success in teaching literacy.

“As the first undergraduate program in the nation to offer CALP certification, we are excited to share with future educators how they will be prepared to begin their teaching career as literacy leaders,” says Michelle Fish, Ph.D., Director, Center for Literacy and Associate Professor of Education.

Bethel University to Present Fall Music Concerts in October

by Bethel University Public Relations | Oct 8, 2025

Bethel University will host choral, orchestra and percussion and wind and jazz concerts this fall. See below for more information.

The Fall Choral Concert, “Dwelling Place,” will take place at Liberty Drive Missionary Church, across from campus, on Thurs., Oct. 16 at 7:30 p.m. This performance will feature BU Voices, the University Choir and Worship Collective. Join us for an evening that celebrates community, faith and the power of song. Tickets are $10 each and may be purchased at Tickets.BethelUniversity.edu.

Fall instrumental concerts will focus on “Celebrating American Composers.” In anticipation of America’s 250th birthday, these concerts will honor the nation’s musical legacy with patriotic works and timeless classics. The Orchestra and Percussion Concert will take place Thurs., Oct. 23 at 7 p.m. in Everest-Rohrer Auditorium. The Wind and Jazz Concert will take place Fri., Oct. 24 at 7 p.m., also in the Everest-Rohrer Auditorium. These two concerts are free and open to the public.

Bethel Students Will Host Second Annual Bethel Baseball Classic

by Bethel University Athletics | Sep 29, 2025

On Tuesday, Oct. 7, Bethel Kinesiology’s Administration and Organization Class, taught by Professor and Associate Head Baseball Coach Kiel Boynton, will host the Second Annual Bethel Baseball Classic. The event will be held at Four Winds Field at Covelski Stadium, as the Pilots take on the local Indiana University South Bend Titans.

First pitch is set for 6:30 PM, with gates opening at 5:30 PM. The Bethel Pilots will be in the first base dugout, with the IUSB Titans in the third base dugout.

Tickets can be purchased at gofevo.com/event/BethelU

Pre-Sale General Admission Tickets are $5, excluding credit card fees. Additionally, pre-sale options extend to $10 for a food voucher (hot dog, drink and chips) and seating.

At the gate, tickets will cost $10, and food vouchers will not be provided.

The event is also Veteran Appreciation Night. Half of all ticket sales (excluding credit card fees) will go toward Mishawaka Troop Town. This is a local organization that provides housing to local homeless Military Veterans. The remaining half of the funds will go back to Bethel’s Administration and Organization Class in order to host the event the following year.

All donations given will go towards Mishawaka Troop Town, and the check will be presented to the organization during the seventh inning stretch.

An additional goal of the event is for Bethel University students to grow in their ability to run the baseball game like a South Bend Cubs Minor League Baseball Game.

Bethel University will hold in-between-inning events and games, special guests, prizes, food, fan interaction, music, trivia, coloring pages for kids and more! Come enjoy a fun family night and support a great cause!

If you have any questions or would like to donate towards Mishawaka Troop Town or in support of the administration and class running the event, please reach out to Kiel Boynton at Kiel.Boynton@betheluniversity.edu.

For more information about Bethel Pilots Athletics, check out BUPilots.com or follow us on Instagram, Facebook or X by searching @bupilots or #TheRightWayToPlay.

Bethel Partners with Lake City Bank for 36th Annual Service Day

by Lissa (Grashorn) Diaz '07 | Sep 26, 2025

Bethel University’s 36th annual campus-wide Service Day will take place on Tues., Sept. 30, sponsored by Lake City Bank.

“Lake City Bank is proud to support Bethel University’s Annual Service Day,” said Kristin L. Pruitt, president of Lake City Bank. “Community Service is one of our core values at the bank and we deeply admire Bethel’s shared dedication to making a meaningful impact across Michiana communities.”

Bethel students, faculty, staff will serve together throughout Michiana. The day will start at 9:30 a.m. in the Everest-Rohrer Chapel/Fine Arts Center on Bethel’s campus, where individuals will divide into groups and leave campus to volunteer at 25 local sites. They will return to campus by 2 p.m.

“Our annual Service Day tradition is a tangible expression of Bethel’s mission to ‘equip the whole person for lifelong service’. We aim for our students to be active participants in the local community during their time at Bethel, preparing them to become servant leaders in every community they will join after they graduate,” says Allison Stout, associate director of student activities & engagement.

There will be a variety of locations served this year, including Center for the Homeless, Family Justice Center, Food Bank of Northern Indiana, Hello Gorgeous!, Humane Society of St. Joseph County, Hubbard Hill Retirement Community, Lifeline Youth Services, Ronald McDonald House of Michiana, Unity Gardens, among others. For a full list of sites, visit our news page, BethelUniversity.edu/News.

The day will wrap up around 2 p.m., with students, faculty and staff receiving lunches on location to serve longer. All classes before 6 p.m. are cancelled so students and faculty may participate.

Serving locations:

Bethel University Shows Steady Enrollment for Fall 2025

by Bethel University Public Relations | Sep 25, 2025

Bethel University’s total enrollment remained steady for the Fall of 2025 with a total headcount of 1,134 students, including sizable increases of 18% in traditional transfer students and 10% in graduate students. New traditional students, representing 16 states and 26 countries, made up the incoming class of 247 new students. Bethel University offers programs in traditional, online undergraduate, graduate and extension sites. Its growing extension studies program has 38 new students – from as close as the Kroc Center in South Bend to as far away as Hawaii. Bethel has a total of 25 extension studies sites in 9 states, with virtual sites for Youth for Christ, Immerge Network and World Gospel Mission Southwest; an international site being developed in Serbia.

“We are excited to journey through this academic year together with such a distinct group of students who make up our campus,” says Dr. Dee McDonald, president. “Seeing such an increase in transfer students is a testament to the Bethel experience and the personal care each student receives here. There is something so special that students are coming back to Bethel from many other schools for the academic excellence, career placement and incredible opportunities that we can offer.”

Top majors for Bethel’s incoming class include Business Management, Nursing, Exercise Science, Elementary Education and Sport Management.

Bethel recently announced a $200,000 grant to support Bethel’s nursing program, which has been ranked No. 1 in the nation and State of Indiana based on 100% of graduates passing the BSN NCLEX (national licensure exam). Bethel’s education program is also leading the way for literacy, as the first undergraduate institution in the nation to offer Certified Academic Language Practitioner (CALP) certification for bachelor of arts in education graduates.

Bethel University to Host Sign Language Visit Day

by Bethel University Public Relations | Sep 22, 2025

Bethel University will host an American Sign Language Visit Day on Friday, September 26. High School students interested in studying sign language interpreting are invited to join us for an exciting day with Bethel’s American Sign Language and Interpreting Department (ASLID). During this visit, students will meet ASLID faculty, staff and students; experience a campus tour; participate in an immersive ASL setting; and enjoy pizza and games. Registration closes Sept. 24.

“This is such a great opportunity for students who are interested in Sign Language Interpreting to get a true taste of what that looks like in a college setting,” says Laura Polhemus, Ph.D., assistant professor and interpreting program director.

Bethel University is one of only three colleges in Indiana with an interpreting program. Learn more, and sign up today! ASL Day | Bethel University.

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