Professor Greta Schutte Personifies Salt and Light

“I am committed to being an avenue by which the Lord can grow His kingdom. It is not anything I do, but how the Lord uses my job as an opportunity to live out being God's servant,” says Assistant Professor of Human Kinetics and Applied Health Science Greta Schutte. Schutte’s humble perspective was awarded the Spring 2018 Core Value Mark of Distinction for salt and light. This award is given to Bethel employees who embody Bethel’s core values, impact their department’s goals, fruitfully serve the Bethel community, and further Bethel’s mission and vision.

From her time as a student at Bethel to her work as a professor and athletic trainer, Schutte’s heart for the Lord and investment in her community have consistently and positively affected everything she sets out to do. “Over the past 15 years, and specifically the last six, I have watched Greta develop into a phenomenal teacher and clinician, but the outstanding part of observing her journey has been to watch her heart of service for the Lord,” says Associate Professor of Human Kinetics and Applied Health Science Jamie Dolieslager, who taught Schutte when she attended Bethel. “She is so willing to give of her time and skills. Coaches and athletes often take her for granted,” Dolieslager continues. “She intentionally works to display the fruits of the Spirit and loves others unconditionally.”

This unconditional love reflects Christ’s and underscores Schutte’s desire to pour into as many students and athletes as she can. “The pouring into can occur in many different forms,” Schutte says, “like extra help understanding course materials, a conversation in the hallway, asking about and listening to students talk about what is important to them and being willing to speak if the Lord directs, and praying for students going through difficult circumstances.”

Schutte has also devoted her time and efforts to support student athletes as they recover from critical injuries. “Greta has sacrificed numerous hours of overtime to help student athletes return to play after season ending injuries,” says Dolieslager. “She has worked diligently to improve her skills and become a better clinician and preceptor. While servicing multiple athletic teams—men’s soccer, women’s basketball, men and women’s golf, track, and tennis—Greta is still willing to work a Sunday game or practice for someone else.”

Schutte says she wants to meet students as they are and serve with the gifts she’s been given. She’s also aware of the collaboration between mentor and students, since they also inspire and serve her. “The students, student athletes, faculty, and staff are what make Bethel an excellent place to work,” Schutte explains. “They bring out the best in me and support and encourage me in the ups and downs of life.”

Schutte was one of four employees awarded the Core Value Mark of Distinction in May at an Executive Leadership Team meeting. Each recipient received a $250 check and a custom-made Bethel fleece jacket for their representations of a Bethel core value.

Learn more about Bethel’s Human Kinetics and Applied Health Science department.