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Bethel Launches $105 Million Campaign
Expanded Stewardship Will Meet Many Priorities
October 5, Bethel University launched the public phase of a $105 million comprehensive resource campaign, the largest in the university's history. Titled "Taking the Next Step," the campaign is intended to secure commitments for facilities, build Bethel's endowment, and strengthen the Annual Fund—improvements that will help to develop Christian leaders now and for years to come.
Bethel President George Brushaber and campaign leaders announced that $67.3 million has already been raised during the leadership phase of the six-year campaign, which extends from 2002 to 2008. "This is the moment for a transformation in stewardship to match the transformation of Bethel into a nationally leading Christian university," said Brushaber.
"It will be achieved by those who care passionately about the kingdom mission of Bethel."
"Taking the Next Step" focuses on four critical areas of need. They are essential now and in the future to maintain the caliber of holistic Christian education that distinguishes Bethel.
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The University Commons will extend along Lake Valentine toward the seminary. It will relieve overcrowding in the current classrooms, library, and offices. |
Lissner Hall has already been completed.
The planned Bethel Seminary San Diego addition.
University Commons would be Bethel's first student center—a "family room" for the community and a place to forge lifelong relationships.
Facilities • $55 million
University Commons - $30 million
This 110,000-square-foot student center would be the campus "family room," a key to Bethel's education of the whole person. It would provide a larger dining center, post office, campus store, and a base for student organizations; and restore greatly needed gathering spaces that have been sacrificed to classrooms and offices during rapid enrollment growth.
Renovations - $2.7 million
The University Commons would allow a renovation of existing buildings to expand the library, and create more classrooms and office space.
Fitness Center - $9.5 million
The Student Recreation Center would be finished to include lockers, classrooms, fitness and weight training centers, a food court, and staff offices.
Seminary St. Paul Renovation and Expansion - $1.5 million
Critically needed classroom and office space will be created with the conversion of an unused gymnasium.
Seminary San Diego Addition - $5.3 million
Space will be added for larger classrooms, offices, a preaching lab, library expansion, instructional technology, a student lounge, and a 350-seat chapel and conference center.
Lissner Hall - $6 million
This new residence hall, dedicated in 2005, is the most visible sign of the impact of the campaign so far. It is home to 288 sophomores.
Annual Fund and Other Current Gifts and Grants • $25 million
The Annual Fund supports vital student services ranging from campus ministries to library resources. Growing participation in this area will serve Bethel long after the campaign.
Endowment • $10 million
Gifts to the endowment support academic programs, financial aid, and new initiatives. The endowment allows donors to create an enduring legacy of financial support for Bethel.
Planned Gifts • $15 million
Gifts of trusts, annuities, IRA assets, pension plans, and insurance proceeds can perpetuate a donor's impact on Bethel through investment in the endowment.
Campaign Includes Planned Giving
Dennis and Doris
Johnson
Johnsons Plan for Giving Goals
Legacy and investment in the lives of others are important values for Dennis '63 and Doris Swanson Johnson '66. They believe true stewardship reflects the use of time and talent as well as possessions.
The two met while singing in the Bethel Choir. Dennis, a chemistry major, was a senior; Doris was a freshman. "For us, the Bethel connection and emotional ties are very strong. It is the place where we met our soul mates," says Doris.
Benefiting from Bethel faculty
"At Bethel, we saw dedication of the faculty," explains Dennis, recalling the influence of Howard Dinsmore, professor of chemistry, and Bob Berglund, professor of music. As a sophomore, Dennis had a mental block during a calculus exam, and math professor Phil Carlson allowed him to take the test at home within the two-hour time limit, and then send it back in.
"He had total trust that I wouldn't cheat on the exam," says Johnson, who consequently used this approach with many of his own students at Iowa State University, where he spent his teaching career after earning his Ph.D. in analytical chemistry. Modeling this trust was a type of investment in the lives of his students.
Doris applied study skills learned from Bethel Professor Roy "Doc" Dalton when she later finished her studies at Iowa State University, graduating as the top scholar in a class of 3,000.
Create a scholarship, participate in a corporate matching gift program, or fund a unique endowment to benefit generations for years to come. For information on many types of planned giving strategies, contact Dan Wiersum, associate vice president of planned giving at the Bethel University Office of Development. Call 651.635.8052 or 800.255.8706, or visit our website at www.bethel.edu/development/
giftplan/index.html.
Distinguished careers, dedicated hearts
After Bethel, the couple invested their considerable gifts into careers–Doris in domestic and international human resources and Dennis teaching chemistry and directing scientific research. Doris managed difficult situations such as litigations and plant closings, where she was able to model Jesus' leadership style, and to be in constant prayer.
Dennis has been internationally recognized for research. Research in his laboratories focused on applications of electrochemistry that are useful in the industrial world. In 1994, Dennis was named Bethel's Distinguished Alumnus of the Year.
Dennis was also an effective witness for his faith. Years after teaching an atheist student, Dennis received a Christmas letter with the news that the graduate had trusted Christ. "I watched your life," the student wrote. "I realized that God and Christ were real to you and that someone could be both a solid Christian and a scientist."
"Our careers were part of our entire investment in life," says Doris.
Annual Fund Update
At Christmas, we celebrate the greatest gift of all: the birth of Jesus Christ, Savior of the world. In turn, we give presents as an expression of our love and care for others. As the calendar year draws to a close, will you remember the students of Bethel University? This year's Annual Fund goal is $3 million, and every gift counts. Your generosity is deeply appreciated.
Life is a Gift
Careful planning allowed the Johnsons to retire early, and to invest time in others. For example they started an "adopt-a-student" program at their church in Ames and reached out to single-parent families.
To bring their financial and giving goals to fruition, the couple worked with Bethel development staff to set up gift annuities and an estate plan. With the exception of certain family items that will be passed on to relatives, their entire estate will benefit Bethel students, funding endowed scholarships for chemistry, music, and especially for students who need financial assistance to attend Bethel.
A great financial tool
Upon advice of their financial counselor, Dennis and Doris have also judiciously included charitable gift annuities as a part of their larger financial plan, along with Social Security, personal savings, IRAs, and employer retirement plans.
In addition, the couple makes outright gifts to Bethel, and has made restricted gifts to the departments of chemistry and music, plus donated gifts to support the track and radio programs in which their nephew was involved.
"Our legacy is not about being well known, nor remembered for that matter" declares Dennis. "We believe our real legacy will be carried on through the lives of past, current, and future Bethel students."
Consider an Easy IRA Rollover
With the passage of the IRA rollover for current gifts, many friends of charities will be contacting their advisors to discuss a possible IRA charitable gift this year. A primary benefit of the IRA rollover is that it is an easy and simple way to make a charitable gift. Let's consider the practical aspects of this rollover for Mary Wilson.*
In June, President George K. Brushaber presented former regent and longtime Bethel supporter Robert Houser with the Presidential Distinguished Medal of Honor. "Bob consistently demonstrated clear Christian commitment and outstanding civic leadership while heading one of the nation's major insurance and financial companies," said Brushaber. "His servant's heart, humility, and deep passion for the gospel are evident in all areas of his life. He was a highly valued and effective member of Bethel's board [from 1985 to 1990], and continues to be a great partner in our work." Robert and Doris Houser are residents of Des Moines, Iowa, and are active there in Union Park Baptist Church.
Mary Wilson is a surviving spouse. When her husband Harry passed away, she received his IRA. In combination with Mary's own IRA, the two IRAs have grown to over $450,000. Fortunately, Mary owns her home and also has a considerable sum in certificates of deposit and mutual funds.
Mary recently turned 71. She volunteers regularly for Bethel University and makes a significant gift each year of $2,000. Since she has watched the IRA grow substantially over the years, Mary and her advisor have decided the best way to make the gift is to withdraw $2,000 from her growing IRA and then write a check to Bethel.
"In prior years Mary would withdraw $2,000 from her IRA, report that amount in her income, and then write a check to Bethel. The downside of this method is that Mary's withdrawal becomes taxable, even if the charitable gift is later deducted on her tax return.
For 2006, her accountant suggested that Mary make an IRA charitable rollover gift instead. This would simplify her tax return, since there would be no tax on the IRA rollover. Mary contacted her IRA custodian and was sent the updated IRA withdrawal form. She filled out the form, requested a charitable rollover of $2,000 and designated Bethel University (by its legal name and location: Bethel University, St. Paul, Minnesota). Since Bethel is a public charity and not a supporting organization or private foundation, the IRA rollover is permitted.
Bethel sent Mary a receipt noting that the gift was a qualified charitable distribution from her IRA. Mary and her CPA both were pleased with the ease of the IRA charitable rollover. The $2,000 did not get reported on her income tax return and she did not have to itemize to take the deduction. The simplicity and convenience of this gift was a wonderful benefit for Mary.
If you are interested in receiving information about making a gift to Bethel from your IRA account contact Dan Wiersum at 800.255.8706, ext. 8052, or at d-wiersum@bethel.edu.
*For purpose of illustration only.
Donors Help Improve Athletic Facilities
By Dan Perrel, Athletic Development Associate and Associate Head Men's Basketball Coach
Bethel athletics plays a unique role in the intellectual, social, and spiritual growth of young men and women, and its continued success has been made possible by donors who share the vision of Bethel athletics and have generously funded its growth. The result is that another one of Bethel's athletic facilities, the Student Recreational Center (SRC), is making progress toward becoming a first-class athletic venue.
Through the generosity of numerous donors, a state-of-the-art multipurpose flooring system was installed in September 2006, providing Bethel with an indoor track surface on par with the U.S. Olympic track training facility. In addition to the track, a specially manufactured and tuned interior court surface will provide an exceptional game and practice venue for tennis, volleyball, and basketball, as well as general student recreation, physical education classes, and intramurals.
The new SRC floor was unveiled during 2006 Homecoming Week and put to immediate use by a number of Bethel intercollegiate and intramural programs. In fact, the women's volleyball program hosted their MIAC match versus the College of St. Benedict on the new surface. "First-class athletic opportunities are realized through the blessings that donors continue to be to Bethel athletics," says Jeff Westlund, director of athletic development.
Celebrating Progress
Few investments have such long-term impact as the development of Christian leaders. When you invest in their growth, you touch classrooms and board rooms, operating rooms and news rooms, locker rooms and sanctuaries around the globe."
—President George K. Brushaber
More Than Half of Goal Raised
Bethel President George Brushaber and the Board of Trustees hosted a dinner on October 5 to thank those who have made significant commitments to the "Taking the Next Step" campaign so far, and to inspire continued support toward the $105 million goal.
Through stories and visuals, guests at the kick-off were 
On October 5, Robertson Center
Gym was transformed into a
banquet hall for donors involved
in the campaign's leadership phase.
"The crucial question in any undertaking is not 'Can we do it?' but 'Is God in it?'" said Nancy Lundquist, quoting her late husband, former Bethel President Carl H. Lundquist (Chair of the Board of Trustees, Pastor Leith Anderson, is at left.)reminded of key transformation points in Bethel's 135-year history—advances made possible as leaders and supporters took bold steps of faith. More than 100 notable alumni were portrayed in a video as evidence of how effectively Bethel is realizing its mission to change the world through Christian leaders.
"What energizes me about this campaign," Brushaber remarked, "is that we are creating a vision for stewardship that will serve Bethel for generations to come."
He noted that the size and increased economic capacity of alumni and partners committed to Bethel's mission is, for the first time, sufficient to achieve success in a campaign of this magnitude.
In the evening's culmination, David Monson, chair of the campaign steering committee, and campaign leaders unfurled a banner—to enthusiastic applause—revealing that total contributions and pledges already stand at $67,329,623.
"These results and the accomplishment of this campaign are only possible because of the real Leader: the Holy Spirit," Monson concluded before guests were dismissed with a prayer of thanksgiving. "Bethel has had a succession of great leaders who understood the importance of earnestly praying, carefully planning, taking the next step, and trusting God."
Annual Fund is Key Part of Campaign
"Record growth of the Annual Fund has been especially encouraging to leadership donors...it indicates Bethel has a bright future." says Rollie Anderson, chair of the advancement committee, Board of Trustees.
Consistent Support Leads the Way
Many people think that campaigns are only about buildings. But a fundamental priority in the "Taking the Next Step" campaign is to strengthen Bethel University's Annual Fund.
No form of giving has a more direct and immediate impact on the daily lives of students and faculty than the support provided by the Annual Fund. In fact, buildings don't matter if Bethel is not able to ensure quality in its programs or the resources that faculty and students need. That's the job of the Annual Fund. It is a priority to grow the fund during the campaign and sustain that momentum long after the campaign's conclusion.
In recent years, records are being set as more and more alumni, parents, and friends claim ownership of the university's financial health through Annual Fund giving. Not only does this provide Bethel the means to meet expenses beyond tuition from year to year, it also signals that Bethel has a strong base of loyal support—a factor in inspiring major capital gifts.
"We have found that record growth of the Annual Fund in recent years has been especially encouraging to leadership donors as they consider their [campaign] commitments," says Rollie Anderson, chair of the advancement committee of the Board of Trustees. "They need to know they have many partners. Annual Fund giving indicates Bethel has a bright future."
"Taking the Next Step" provides an opportunity for all Bethel alumni, parents, and friends to assess their stewardship of Bethel. Please consider giving or increasing your gift to the Annual Fund.
For more information on making a gift to "Taking the Next Step," contact the Bethel University Office of Development at 651.638.8050 or email development@bethel.edu.
 Stories and visuals reminded guests of key transformation points in Bethel's history and affirmed God's faithfulness in meeting current needs. Above, campaign steering committee chairman David Monson (left) visits with former Baptist General Conference president Warren Magnuson (right), in front of a panel honoring the work of the late former Bethel President Carl H. Lundquist. |
Phonathons: Off to a Great Start in 2006-2007 Annual Fund Drive
"What a joy to talk to Nina! To feel so at one in the Spirit—as far apart in age as we are—is so amazing to me. Her phone call lifted my spirit. I praise God for such young people!" —a comment from a Bethel donor who responded to a phonathon call
By Chad Boysen '05, Manager of Development Phonathons
The Bethel Phonathon recently completed its first campaign and is off to another great start on a successful year. Through just the first month of student calling, generous alumni have pledged more than $80,000 in support for the Annual Fund.
The Annual Fund covers a broad range of campus programs including student financial assistance, academic enrichment programs, campus ministry projects, building maintenance, intramural sports, and special training seminars. Without it, many growth opportunities for Bethel students would not be available.
And every gift counts. Even if you don't think you can make a difference, you might be surprised to learn that even gifts of a single dollar can go a long way in advancing the mission of Bethel University. These gifts increase the alumni participation rate, which qualifies Bethel for more student grants and scholarships.
The phonathon team consists of about 30 student callers who contact alumni, parents, and friends of all schools of Bethel University. The students update records, chat with alumni about their experiences at Bethel, and help to raise support for the Annual Fund. In addition, the students also gather prayer requests—one more way for people to reconnect with the Bethel community.
"I really enjoy talking with Bethel alumni and hearing about their experiences here and how Bethel has grown over the years," says phonathon team member Christina Haggar.
Expect a phone call soon from a Bethel student. We look forward to speaking with you.
Bethel in Your Inbox
Want to know about the next alumni event, theatre performance, or concert? Interested in news about Bethel students and alumni? Get the latest Bethel info in your inbox. Sign up for Bethel eNews at http://www.bethel.edu/e-news/subscribe/.
Nursing Scholarships Address Serious Need
HealthEast Program Steps Up
By Kay Wible
Bethel's baccalaureate and masters-level nursing programs have a long-standing reputation for excellence. The "Bethel difference" is that graduates reflect a Christ-like presence as they serve with dedication.
It's widely known that a nursing shortage is only becoming more serious. A Minnesota Department of Health study indicates that 60 percent of the state's current practicing nurses are 45 years of age or older—headed for retirement. More young men and women are urgently needed as R.N.s as the nation's aging population grows.
Donors can help. Recognizing this need, the HealthEast Foundation established the Bethel nursing scholarship program in 2001 to enable capable new nurses to enter the field.
Since 2002, HealthEast has awarded a number of $5,000 annual scholarships to deserving junior and senior Bethel nursing students. All recipients are encouraged to begin a relationship with HealthEast prior to graduation, usually through part-time or summer employment or internships at one of the healthcare system's facilities.
The partnership between Bethel and HealthEast Care System has been mutually beneficial. According to Vicki Boche, HealthEast workforce planning consultant, the program has "enabled us to increase the number of our hires from Bethel."
HealthEast's vision and generosity have created a scholarship that will benefit Bethel students, and HealthEast's own staffing needs, in practical and far-reaching ways. HealthEast supports a network of four hospitals and around a dozen clinic locations in the Twin Cities area.
"This program has been successful for us," Boche notes, "and we would hope that it continues to be so."
Bethel welcomes individuals and other businesses to follow HealthEast's example. Considering that nearly everyone will need the care of an able nurse at some point, funding nursing scholarships is an arrangement where everyone wins.
A Future R.N. Says Thanks
"Without the financial
support this has given me,
I wouldn't have been able
to finish the program,"
says Juanita Rodriguez.
By Kay Wible
Since the inception of the HealthEast Nursing Scholarship Program, 14 nursing students have been blessed by opportunities provided through that company's partnership with Bethel University.
Juanita Rodriguez, a senior from Edinburg, Texas, is a HealthEast scholarship recipient who says that the award made it possible for a dream to come true. Rodriguez first became interested in nursing and Bethel when, as a small child, her family hosted Bethel nursing students who were working in the town near Mexico as part of a cross-cultural interim program. The students made an indelible impression on her and she chose to enroll in nursing at Bethel.
Challenging circumstances during her sophomore year prompted Rodriguez to apply for the HealthEast Scholarship. Rodriguez, who hopes to work with babies, possibly as a labor and delivery nurse, was thrilled to receive one of the awards, which was renewed for succeeding years. "Without the financial support this has given me, I wouldn't have been able to finish the program," she declares.
This past summer, Rodriguez worked in an internship position at HealthEast's Bethesda Hospital in St. Paul. "Through my internship at Bethesda, I was able to gain self-confidence that equipped me for my last year of nursing school," says Rodriguez, who plans to apply at one of the HealthEast hospitals after graduating next spring. Eventually, Rodriguez intends to complete a master's degree in nursing.
Calendar of Events
The Office of Development will be staffed December 22 and December 26-30 for those who wish to make year-end contributions. Year-end contributions must be postmarked by December 31, 2006.)Roundtable Dinner Discussions
Bethel Seminary of the East will hold several Roundtable Dinner Discussions in the near future. One example is "So Who Cares about the Historic Jesus?" with Professor Mark Strauss from 6-8:30 p.m. on November 17 at the Washington, D.C. teaching center. The events, at a cost of $12 per person, are designed to serve leaders of regional churches. For more information, contact l-rudolph@bethel.edu or call 888.THE-EAST, ext. 20.
Festival of Christmas
50 Years of Praising God Through Song
This year, Bethel marks the 50th year of Festival of Christmas, one of its most beloved traditions. Five performances of "Gloria in excelsis Deo" will take place in Benson Great Hall on November 29 and 30 and December 1 and 2. (Ticket availability for Dec. 1 and 2 is extremely limited.)
For those with young children, a family discount night will be offered on Wednesday, November 29, with the performance beginning at 7:30 p.m. A tree lighting ceremony complete with cookies, cocoa, and carols will take place on Thursday night (November 30) before the 8 p.m. performance.
Best of all, this beloved tradition will be recorded in high-definition format and featured on Twin Cities Public Television and throughout the TPT affiliate network, an opportunity for Bethel to share this music with the community and beyond. TPT officials estimate the premiere telecast will reach 35,000 to 40,000 people, and say the rebroadcasts in this and subsequent years have the potential to double that viewership.
For tickets, call 651.635.1999. To order a DVD or CD of the concert, go to www.bethel.edu/special-events/festival or call 651.635.8518.
A Royal Gathering to Remember
Royal Investor gathering attendees learned more about the "Taking the Next Step" campaign.
The fall 2006 Royal Investor gathering was a Saturday to remember: a musical, a football game, and a great tailgate picnic lunch. Can you think of a better way to spend an autumn day?
Credits
The Bethel Investor is published three times a year. The newsletter is designed especially for donors and friends of Bethel University. Content includes articles on institutional advancement efforts, donor events, student and donor profiles, and stewardship/giving opportunities.
Office of Development
Bruce W. Anderson '74
Vice President for Development
651.635.8050
Email: development@bethel.edu
Website: www.bethel.edu/development/
Editor: Patty Thomson
Designer: Thomas Vukelich '82
Writers: Chad Boysen '05, Holly Donato '78, Dan Perrel, Kay Wible