Nearly 400 people from as far away as Ghana gathered Tuesday evening, June 24, to say farewell and honor outgoing President George K. Brushaber for his 33 years of service to Bethel University at a formal gala in downtown St. Paul. There for the celebration and to hear several significant announcements were fellow presidents in higher education, members of Bethel boards, donors to Bethel, alumni, family, and personal friends. Welcoming remarks came from Minnesota Governor Tim Pawlenty, familiar with Bethel as the alma mater of his wife Mary, who has also been a Trustee. “It is unimaginable to think of the thousands and thousands of young people that George and Darleen have taught, mentored, and empowered,” he said. “On behalf of our state, we want to say thank you for a third-century of leadership for the cause of Christ.”

After dinner, the ensemble “Men of Praise” sang some of the retiring president’s favorite hymns to begin a moving program. A video conveyed tributes from colleagues across the nation. Next was a comical roast of Brushaber by his adult children, Deanna Brushaber Dalberg and Don Brushaber. Don’s “Top ten list as to why his parents needed Bethel” included: “Without Bethel activities, my dad would have had absolutely no social life!” And “Dad needed a school that could beat St. John’s in football.”

More seriously, Deanna told of little-known sacrifices the family made to support their dad’s work. Their home’s basement, she said, wasn’t furnished as a family room, but as a meeting center so they could host many Bethel gatherings before there were facilities on campus. “My mom and dad consistently gave Bethel whatever Bethel needed,” she said.

George Brushaber’s portrait was then revealed, a work painted by well-known artist Ben McCready. Also, because the president may miss the view from his Bethel office window, he was presented with a painting by Bethel Art Professor Dale Johnson titled “Lake Valentine Evening.” Brushaber also received his presidential medallion in a frame.

The evening then became historic with two surprise announcements. The final total of the recently completed comprehensive campaign—$109.3 million, $4.3 million over goal—was publicly announced for the first time. Trustee Rollie Anderson also revealed that the Board unanimously voted to name the new Bethel community center George K. Brushaber Commons. “This is by far the largest project in Bethel’s history,” he said. “George, you’ve dreamed about it as long as I’ve known you.” A prolonged standing ovation followed.

George and Darleen took the stage to respond. “A lot of what’s been said has been exaggerated,” George said modestly, adding, “None of this would have been possible without Darleen.”

“You have bound your lives to ours,” he continued, “and we have found this a wonderful place to serve alongside wonderful people.”

“I’m wearing blue tonight,” Darleen concluded, “because I love Bethel. We will always love Bethel, and we’ll always be with you in our hearts.”