Faculty

Katie Bonawitz

| katie-bonawitz@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2007

Dr. Bonawitz is a 2023 Fulbright Scholarship Grant recipient to Klaipeda, Lithuania at LCC University. She completed a Fulbright Specialist Project in Vilnius, Lithuania in May and September 2024 to collaborate with the Lithuanian Center for Inclusion in Education as the country moved to an inclusion model on September 1, 2024. Dr. Bonawitz also has a heart for Ukraine and spent her 2021 sabbatical leading teachers across Ukraine in evidence-based strategies for students with disabilities.. . . read more.

Eydie Dyke-Shypulski

| eydie-shypulski@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2015

Dr. Eydie Dyke-Shypulski (LICSW) has served as the chair of the Department of Social Work at Bethel University, MSW program director, and professor of social work.

Amy Evans

Program Director | Core Faculty | Professor of Psychology | ale42385@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2018

Dr. Evans completed her undergraduate degree at Northwestern College, in St. Paul, Minnesota. She then completed a master's degree in counseling at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville and a Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. She has worked in a variety different counseling settings, including private practice, college counseling center, and inpatient substance use disorder treatment. She has teaching experience with counselors-in-training both online . . . read more.

Cynthia Goetz

PA Program Interim Director and Director of PA Academic Support | c-goetz@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2014

I have worked in the areas of Family Medicine, Urgent Care, Bariatric Medicine and Retail Medicine. My passion is serving the PA Profession in various leadership positions and teaching students about state and national practice issues of the PA profession.

Leslie Helgerson

Program Director and Professor and Professor | sam-helgerson@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2002

Jennifer Koenig Nelson

Core Faculty | Clinical Director | jen94387@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2015

Clinical Supervision and Training; Trauma and Loss; Self-Care and Burnout; Therapeutic Relationship; Identity Development; Relationship Development; and Issues of Faith and Spirituality in the therapeutic process

Blair Nelson

Program Director of M.S. in Medical Sciences | blair-nelson@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2022

Dr. Nelson is the Director of Didactic Education for the Master of Science Physician Assistant program at Bethel University.

Greg Nelson

Adjunct Instructor of Teaching | gregory-nelson@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2007

International Baccalaureate education.

Jeanine Parolini

MBA Program Director, Associate Professor, Career Coach and Dissertation Advisor | j-parolini@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2007

Dr. Parolini has developed thousands of leaders in hundreds of organizations throughout the world. Her passion is to invest in principled people, leaders and learning organizations. Jeanine coaches leaders, teams and organizations to be continuous learners, self-aware, trustworthy, responsible, collaborative, empowering and innovative. She speaks and writes on a variety of topics involving effective leadership, teams and organizational life.

Tracy Reimer

Program Director, Professor | t-reimer@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2011

Tracy served as an elementary principal for 10 years before joining the faculty. During her tenure, she led a successful turnaround initiative, transforming a school labeled "Needs Improvement" by the Minnesota Department of Education into a National Blue Ribbon School, recognized for high student achievement by the U.S. Department of Education. Tracy now focuses on the daily actions of school and district leaders that foster a culture of professional learning communities, hold high expecta. . . read more.

Lisa Silmser

Affiliate Faculty - Adjunct Assistant Professor | l-silmser@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2002

Lisa is grateful to have been called to the ministry of teaching. She keeps current on K-12 practices by remaining in the classroom and readily shares practical expertise and stories from her experiences in a variety of settings, including teaching special education students in an online school. She teaches in the MA in Teaching, MA in Special Education and M.A. in K-12 Education programs. She is program director for MA in K-12 Education. Areas of interest include Instructional Strategies, . . . read more.

Wendy Thompson, DNP, MPH, PHN, RN

| wendy-thompson@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 1998

Dr. Thompson is the Program Director for the Doctor of Nursing Practice Program that launched in spring, 2019. She is thrilled to be a part of the Doctor of Nursing Practice program and has taught at Bethel University since 1998. Wendy has over 30 years of experience in public health nursing and healthcare administration. Her interests include nursing leadership, population-focused health care, community engagement, health equity, and healthcare finance. She also has experience in curriculu. . . read more.

Deanna Towns

Core Faculty | Assistant Professor | d-towns@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2019

Core Faculty Assistant Professor Clinical Supervision; Trauma and Abuse; Development of Counseling Internationally; Virtues in Learning Acquisition; Cultural Diversity; Mentoring Deanna Towns earned her bachelor's degree in social work from University of Georgia, her master's in marriage and family therapy from Liberty University in Virginia, and her doctorate in counselor education and supervision at Regent University in Virginia. Prior to joining the Bethel community, Deanna worked as . . . read more.

Molly Wickam

Program Director, Faculty | m-wickam@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2005

Dr. Wickam is a Professor of Education and Business/Leadership and the Program Director for Bethel's MA Teaching and B.S. Business Management. She has a corporate background in software product marketing, insurance risk management, property & casualty claims and marketing, and was a small-business owner. She is also a former high school business and social studies teacher. She teaches a business capstone that contains a client-focused service-learning project, a marketing course, and variou. . . read more.

Katrina Wu

Program Director | katrina-wu@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2014

Katrina Wu is a certified nurse-midwife with expertise in home and birth center settings and developing sexual and reproductive healthcare services. Her clinical and research interests include innovative models for prenatal care delivery, increasing access to midwifery care in underserved communities, and increasing racial and cultural diversity among midwives. Her dissertation work titled, "The Integration of Telemedicine in Routine Prenatal Care." . . . read more.

Pamela Zimmerman

Adjunct Instructor | pamela-zimmerman@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2007

Social gerontology and aging policy.

Jodi Baker

Adjunct Instructor | jodi-baker@bethel.edu

Emily Blackmer

Assistant Professor of Social Work | emily-blackmer@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2021

Assistant Professor in CAPS BA Social Work; Associate Program Director of CAPS BA Social Work Emily Blackmer's background includes working for the Los Angeles County Department of Children and Family Services as a Children's Social Worker, being assigned to Treatment and Dependency Investigation units. She has also worked in medical social work in a wide range of medical specialities including intensive outpatient psychiatric care, the emergency department, critical care units, mother/baby. . . read more.

Greg Bourland

Instructor | g-bourland@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2006

Business Management, Talent Management, Senior Level Human Resources Leadership, Executive Coaching and Development, Quality (Lean/Six Sigma/Baldrige), Mergers and Acquisitions.

Mauvalyn Bowen

Professor | mm-bowen@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2017

Dr. Bowen has done extensive work in Jamaica and the Caribbean, as an administrator, consultant, and faculty. Her research interests lie in the areas of entrepreneurial marketing, social entrepreneurship and entrepreneurial training for micro and small entrepreneurs in developing countries. She served as a member on the local board of HOPE International which helped to develop her passion for entrepreneurship with a purpose. Mauvalyn co-authored the textbook " Entrepreneurship for Caribbe. . . read more.

Abigail Brubaker

Assistant Professor of Physician Assisting | a-brubaker@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2025

Hematology and Oncology

Alex Chan

Adjunct Instructor | alex-chan@bethel.edu

Renee Clark

Assistant Professor | r-clark@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2017

Renee Clark is a nurse-midwife with experience in hospital and birth center settings. Her interests include primary care, increasing diversity in the midwifery workforce, care for displaced people, and integrative medicine. Her DNP work focused on the use of shared decision-making and the use of obstetric ultrasound in a freestanding birth center.

Dawn Dahlgren-Roemmich

Clinical Director and Clinical Assistant Professor | dawn-roemmich@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2017

Research interests include waterbirth vs conventional birth and the outcome differences

Jessica Daniels

Professor of Education | j-daniels@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2015

Before becoming a faculty member, Jessica served as the Assistant Provost at a private west coast university. In this role she supported the deans, faculty, and students in the six colleges and schools at the University. She also has student development experience, managing community life, housing, student conduct, orientation, student programs, etc. as the Assistant Dean of Students. Jessica's research interests are under the broad umbrella of higher education as a platform for positive so. . . read more.

Anthony Dorn

Adjunct Instructor | agd26756@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2011

Data and decision making, managerial finance, and managerial economics.

Taneesha Douglas

Associate Professor | taneesha-douglas@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2023

Taneesha Reynolds Douglas, MSN, MBA, CNM is joining the nurse-midwifery program as an associate professor. Hailing from Dayton, OH, and living in Nashville, Tennessee, Taneesha's journey to nursing and midwifery was sparked by a transformative encounter during her college years, compelling her to empower others mentally, spiritually, and physically. With degrees from Vanderbilt University, Tennessee State University, and the University of Phoenix, her expertise as a Certified Nurse Midwif. . . read more.

Carrissia Feaster

Faculty | caf78793@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2022

I am a Certified Nurse-Midwife and Family Nurse Practitioner currently practicing in Reno, NV in both roles. I love mentoring students, catching babies, and Michigan football.

Paige Hardy

Associate Professor of Nursing | p-hardy@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2020

Paige practices full scope midwifery in a rural critical access hospital in western Minnesota. She has been a Nurse-Midwife for 19 years, all at the same clinic.

Polly Hendel

Assistant Professor | p-hendel@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2023

Assistant Professor, Physician Assistant Program. Background in retail medicine and behavioral health.

Jennifer Henson

Assistant Professor of Social Work | jch47677@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2023

Jennifer Henson, Ph.D., LMSW, is an Assistant Professor of Social Work with extensive clinical experience in inpatient psychotherapy at Oceans Behavioral Hospital in Waco, Texas. She has also served as a part-time faculty member at Baylor University. Dr. Henson holds both a Master of Social Work (MSW) and a Ph.D. in Social Work from Baylor University. Her multimodal research focuses on assessing the practice of social work clinicians working with individuals diagnosed with autism.. . . read more.

Stephen Hunt

Instructor | sth76525@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2019

Hello. I am 1985 graduate of Bethel College. Excited to be back at my alma mater. I have been an educator for over 30 years teaching at secondary, tertiary, and adult levels. I live in Eden Prairie, am married and proud parent of two children and a wonderful yellow lab named Thunder.

Jeff Jacob

Professor | j-jacob@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2007

Teaching and research interests in applied econometrics, economic development and business analytics.

Peter Jankowski

Associate Professor of Marriage and Family Therapy | pjankows@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2004

Jankowski's research focuses on differentiation of self and spirituality; positive psychology; psychotherapy effectiveness; faith integration in psychotherapy; narrative and experiential therapy; and clinical supervision.

Gary Johnsen

Adjunct Instructor | gjohnsen@bethel.edu

Human resource management, human resources transformation, leadership.

Kevin L. Johnson

Teaching Partner | klj84696@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2017

Dr. K.L. Johnson is a Teaching Partner (Adjunct Associate Professor) at Bethel University. As one of our Bethel MBA faculty, Dr. Johnson also teaches courses for CAS (Undergraduate Business Department), as well as the Adult Undergraduate, and Graduate Programs of Bethel (CAPS/GS).

Peggy Kendall

Professor of Communication Studies | p-kendall@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 1999

Kendall is a recent Fulbright Scholar who spent time in Poland researching issues related to eldercare. Her current field of study examines caregivers, specifically how culture impacts an individual's willingness to care for an aging relative and how COVID-19 has impacted the relationship between caregiver and elder. Her secondary research and writing focuses on how technology impacts faith, relationships, and identity.

Minyoung Lim

Assistant Professor of Social Work | minyoung-lim@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2021

Minyoung Lim is an Assistant Professor of Social Work at Bethel University. She holds an MSW from University of Pittsburgh and PhD in Social Work from Indiana University. Minyoung has diverse practice experience from micro to macro including social work research in government and direct practice in Aging.

Mary Lindell

Professor of Education | mlindell@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2015

Dr. Lindell is interested in practices and interventions that support student success in inclusive environments. She enjoys facilitating general and special education teacher development and partnering with schools to better prepare teachers and serve (P-12) students well. Her research agenda centers on the impacts of inclusive post-secondary programs and Bethel's BUILD program.

Karin Lyon

Instructor | k-lyon@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2022

Karin is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and Registered Play Therapist. She owns a private practice in White Bear Lake and focuses on trauma and anxiety in adults and children.

Abbie Marten

Instructor of Biological Sciences | ae-reynen@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2022

Instructor of Biological Sciences

Peg McCormick

Professor of Education | p-mccormick@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2009

Peg McCormick's interests and areas of specialization include Behavioral Theory, interventions for the EBD classroom, resilient health and occupational longevity for teachers, and best practices for the support of international student teachers.

Krista Nauman

Assistant Professor | krista-nauman@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2020

Assistant professor in the PA program and physician assistant in orthopedic spine surgery

Matthew Putz

Instructor | m-putz@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2008

Dr. Putz teaches courses on conflict management, ethics, organizational systems, organizational leadership, organizational change, and philosophy of technology.

Steve Raimo

Faculty of CAPS and GS (College of Adult & Professional Studies and Graduate School) | steve-raimo@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2017

With an undergraduate degree in accounting, a masters in business administration, and a doctorate in strategic leadership (from the School of Global Leadership and Entrepreneurship at Regent University), Dr. Raimo's thirty-plus years of organizational leadership and management experience in the United States and over-seas with multi-national corporations, small business, government, and non-profit organizations give him a distinctive perspective and expertise as an organizational coach and . . . read more.

John Rudberg

Adjunct Associate Professor | john-rudberg@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 1998

Managerial economics, managerial accounting.

Sara Shady

Professor of Philosophy | s-shady@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2002

Shady's teaching focuses on fostering healthy communities amidst significant difference, including racial/ethnic, religious, and political differences. She is also interested in how we teach empathy. And she is a specialist in 19th and 20th c. Continental Philosophy, particularly Existentialism

Allison Steinke

| aja66338@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2020

I am a Ph.D. Candidate enrolled at the Hubbard School of Journalism and Mass Communication at the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities. I'm a qualitative researcher that utilizes in-depth interviews, content analysis, and netnography to answer research questions on topics related to journalism, digital and social media, and social justice with an emphasis on solutions journalism and the anti-human trafficking movement. I am minoring in sociology and am a research assistant for the University. . . read more.

Julie Ann Vingers

Associate Professor of Nursing | j-vingers@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2011

Dissertation research on lateral violence in nursing and nursing education. Nursing experience in Mental Health and Maternal-Child nursing. Has been working as a Certified Nurse-Midwife serving a diverse population of women since 1995. Named as a fellow to the ACNM in 2022. Currently teaching in the M.S. in Nurse-Midwifery program and practices at Minnesota Women's Care. Clinical interests include perinatal mental health, trauma informed care, and antenatal care.. . . read more.

Stephen Whiting

Associate Professor of Business | whiste@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2006

More than 30 years of management, consulting, and information technology experience. Interested in a biblical framework for technology/engineering and business.

Gretchen Wrobel

University Professor of Psychology | g-wrobel@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 1988

Wrobel conducts research on curiosity as it affects relationships in adoption, including the adopted person, adoptive parents, and birth parents.

Nick Zeimet

Director of Field Education and Director of Practicum Education; Associate Professor of Social Work | nick-zeimet@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2021

Nick is a clinical social worker with more than 10 years of psychotherapy and community social work experience. He volunteers with Mount Sinai Human Rights Program conducting remote evaluations for those seeking asylum in the United States. He is the past President of SAMS - MN Chapter (Syrian American Medical Society) and Mental Health Committee member of SAMS - national. He was lead coordinator of the first SAMS Mental Health Psychosocial Support report and in 2019 led a mental health mis. . . read more.

Tonya Allen

Adjunct Instructor of Education | t-allen@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2022

Tonya started with Bethel University in 2022. Tonya is an educational leader within an intermediate school district and teaches within the BA in special education and MA in K-12 education programs.

Diane Banigo

Adjunct Instructor of Nurse Midwifery | dib72237@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2022

Diane Banigo is a doctorate-prepared nurse-midwife (with in & out of hospital birth experience) called to do more than help women birth babies. When she is not at the bedside of moms, Dr. Banigo is journeying alongside women giving birth to their vision while living out their God-given purpose in life. As a fierce community advocate for Black Maternal Health matters, she is also a nurse educator, perinatal consultant, and business owner.

Lisa Bekemeyer

Adjunct Instructor and Adjunct Instructor | ldb86486@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2001

I am passionate about teaching multi-lingual learners and helping our teacher candidates prepare for this worthy profession. In my courses, I emphasize teaching language through a wide variety of strategies that fit under the umbrella of CI (Comprehensible Input); I strive to help my learners actively engage and practice these strategies for teaching language through content.

John Bergeland

Adjunct Professor and Thesis Advisor | jbergeland@isd12.org | Started at Bethel: 2005

Content Area Literacy, Disciplinary Literacy, Vocabulary Instruction, Teaching Reading, Middle School Education

Neil Best

Adjunct Instructor of Education | nabest@alaska.edu | Started at Bethel: 2021

Dr. Neil Best has been working in Higher Ed for almost 20 years now. He received his PhD from Azusa Pacific University in Higher Education and his dissertation explored on the campus climate predictors of sexual assault victimization. His Master’s degree is in Leadership from Trinity Western University. He has professional experience working in the areas of Equity and Compliance, Residence Life, Student Engagement, Leadership Development, and Student Conduct. He currently serves as De. . . read more.

Cheryl Bostrom

Adjunct Assistant Professor of Education | c-bostrom@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 1995

My areas of expertise include culturally valid assessment, international education, teacher education, educational leadership, English language learning, scholarly research and writing, and intercultural communication. In addition to teaching and advising at Bethel University, I am serving with TeachBeyond.

Joni Burgin-Hartshorn

Adjunct Instructor of Education | j-burgin-hartshorn@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2008

Educational Leadership, School Safety, Instructional Leadership, Policy and Administration

Joe Burk

Adjunct Instructor of Education | ijb83464@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2017

I have taught International Baccalaureate Middle Years Science and Diploma Program Biology for over 20 years and I have worked as the IB MYP Principal Examiner for Biology for over five years. I have also worked as a graduate level instructor for over five years and enjoy many aspects of adult education.

Jason Byers

Adjunct Instructor of Healthcare | jason.byers@allina.com | Started at Bethel: 2020

Lead Physician, Allina Coon Rapids Family Medicine Residency, St. John's/U of M

Meg Cavalier

Adjunct Instructor of Education | cavmeg@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2017

I received a B.A. in Elementary and Science Middle School Education, M.A. in K-12 Education and Ed.D. in Education Administration from Bethel University. I currently serve as the Executive Director at St. Paul City School, a charter school district serving 550 PreK-12th grade students. My work in education has varied from teaching at the Minnesota Zoo to, an elementary Special Education teacher, 7-12 science teacher and secondary principal and a private school in Bloomington, MN. I have had. . . read more.

Nicole Centanni

Adjunct Instructor of Counseling | n-centanni@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2005

Nicole is an experienced career coach with a focus on positive psychology, design thinking and wellbeing.

Kelsey Chavalas, LICSW

Adjunct Professor | keh64398@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2023

Adjunct professor with experience in both public and non-profit child welfare, and public waiver programs supporting community inclusion for individuals with disabilities.

Kari Christensen

Adjunct Instructor of Education | k-christensen@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2012

Christensen's teaching specialty is the International Baccalaureate Programmes - the Diploma Programme, the Career-related Programme, the Middle Years Programme and the Primary Years Programme.

Vicki Clark

Adjunct Instructor of Business | vic58924@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2017

A lifelong learner paying forward the encouragement I received from others.

Jolyn Dahlvig

Adjunct Instructor of Education | jed35737@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2018

My personal commitment/guiding statement: As a leader, teacher, family member, and friend living at my highest and best I am strong, courageous, spacious, and wise so that I can contribute to Shalom (inclusive community) so that others can freely live into their vision. I am a student affairs leader for Oregon Institute of Technology who works from the Portland-Metro campus, about 20 miles from S of Portland. My research areas of interest include student success and assessment, positive . . . read more.

William Derden

Adjunct Professor | wid88763@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2019

Adjunct Professor Specializing in Special Education Due Process and Law Graduate of Bethel Educational Doctorate Program.

Leona Derden

Adjunct Professor of Education | ler43264@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2014

I am married and have five wonderful children and four grandchildren. My educational background includes me completing my Doctor of Education degree this spring at Bethel University, a Master of Arts in Teaching from St. Thomas University and my Principal Licensure from St. Mary's University. I started my career as a social worker working with abused and neglected children in Chicago, Illinois and Sioux Falls, South Dakota. In 1997, I relocated to Minnesota and was looking for a career ch. . . read more.

Kacia Engel

Adjunct Professor | kle57947@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2020

Strong passion for emergency medicine and acute care issue. Interested in wellness for healthcare providers; given all the stressors faced.

Toni Estis

Adjunct Instructor of Nurse Midwifery | aestis57569@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2022

I am a certified nurse midwife, with experience in hospital and birth center settings. I currently work for a community clinic, and support women from a variety of diverse backgrounds-which is one of my favorite things about the work of midwifery. My clinical passions include breastfeeding, postpartum support and truly just being present with families.

Paul Floyd

Adjunct Instructor of Business | paul-floyd@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2005

Capstone/Business Plan Development and Senior Healthcare Legal Compliance in the MBA program and Business Law in the CAPS program at Bethel Univ.

Amy Fox

Adjunct Faculty - Student Teaching Supervisor, Thesis Advisor, Science Content Expert | beiamy@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2019

Secondary Science, Trauma Informed Instruction, Education Equity, Environmental Education

Joel Frederickson

Adjunct Instructor of Psychology | frejoe@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 1996

Frederickson's research interests include the psychological impact of apologies and how students change over four years from participating in college. This includes changes in cognition, beliefs, and spirituality.

Alexis Greeves

Adjunct Professor of Psychology | alexis@hopeandhealingmn.com | Started at Bethel: 2010

Play therapy with deaf and hard of hearing children

Cindy Hansen

Adjunct Instructor of Education | cjm54467@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2017

Cindy has been honored to serve God as a teacher and principal in PK-12 public education (Illinois, Minnesota, and Missour) since 2000. She is currently the superintendent of Jasper R-5 School District in Jasper, MO. Her research interests include principal and superintendent career paths, employee turnover and retention, and social, emotional, and spiritual health of both students and adults.

Rachel Hanus

Adjunct Instructor of Nurse Midwifery | rah79986@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2022

Rachel Hanus is a nurse midwife with clinical experience in home birth, birth centers, and hospital settings. Currently working at the Minnesota Birth Center. She co-founded a non-profit providing transitional housing to homeless pregnant women in 2013. Her clinical interests include functional medicine in women's health, infertility, and increasing access to midwifery care.

Tedi Anne Hasapopoulos

Adjunct Instructor | tedi-hasapopoulos@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2006

New product development and strategic planning, applied ethics, data and decision making, business plan development, marketing, customer insights and research. Recent developing expertise in diversity, equity and inclusion organization best practices.

Erica Hering

Adjunct Instructor of Education | e-hering@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2005

Erica is a former elementary school teacher who has served in higher education for 19 years. Erica has worked with the Doctoral and Licensing Program in Educational Leadership since 2006. She also received her doctoral degree through Bethel's program.

Jenny Hill

Adjunct Professor of Teaching | jch93249@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2011

Jenny Hill (@Bibliophile84) has been recognized on WCCO TV for her work as an elementary school library media specialist. She recently completed her Doctorate of Education from Bethel University, St. Paul, MN. Jenny loves drinking strong coffee, reading good books, and savoring deep thoughts. You can find her book and blog online at walkingwithtension.com. Jenny lives in central Minnesota and attends Church of the Open Door in Maple Grove, MN.

Ryan Hovis

Teaching Partner of Counseling | ryan-hovis@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2016

Teaching Partner of Counseling

Ross Jahnke

Adjunct Instructor of Education | ross-jahnke@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2011

Ross Jahnke teaches courses on leadership and higher education administration. His research has examined empowering leadership behaviors and trust in higher education contexts. Ross has also presented at accreditation conferences on topics including assessment of student learning and strategic decision-making. With graduate degrees in both theology and higher education leadership, he seeks to foster the integration of students' deepest beliefs and values with their approaches to leadership.. . . read more.

Kristie Johnson

Adjunct Instructor of Physician Assistant Studies | kristine-kunnari@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2025

Family Medicine

Kevin Johnson

Teaching Partner in Business | kevin-l-johnson@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2016

Adjunct Associate Professor of Business and Economics

Jesse Johnson

Adjunct Faculty | jessej6@gmail.com | Started at Bethel: 2022

Bethel Graduate (1968). Math instructor for 30+ years. Applied math experience as a network engineer for 15 years. Married 55 years to Bethel graduate, 4 grown kids, and 13 grandkids.

Rachel Jorgensen

Adjunct Instructor | rra35368@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2017

Dr. Rachel Jorgensen is a leader in work-based learning with experience in both general education and special education work-based learning programs. She also has expertise in the area of special education and parental support for students with disabilities. She is the author of two books published by Routledge. The first, Loving Your Job in Special Education: 50 Tips and Tools, is a resource on burnout prevention to help educators find lasting peace and joy in their work as special educato. . . read more.

John Kantke

Adjunct Professor of Gerontology | john.kantke@voamn.org | Started at Bethel: 2011

Ethics and Aging

Melanie Keillor

Adjunct Instructor of Education | mek94264@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2020

Educational leader committed to Interrupting the status quo. Currently serving Minneapolis Public Schools to identify strong solutions, create structures, and measure school improvement work. Research focuses on SLIFE, immigrant populations, and the under-served.

William Kron

Adjunct Instructor of Education | wjk97757@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2010

Teaching and Learning

Tiana Krueger

Adjunct Professor of Social Work | tin53748@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2022

Tiana has practiced in a variety of social work settings including domestic violence, housing stabilization, child protection early intervention, youth programming, refugee resettlement, and parenting education. She is currently employed as a child protection case manager working with children and families to safely have children reunite with parents or stay in their homes. Tiana has also assisted with the accreditation and reaccreditation processes for the BSW and MSW programs at Bethel. . . . read more.

Michelle Langenfeld

Adjunct Instructor of Education | m-langenfeld@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2007

Langenfeld served as the Superintendent of Schools and Learning for the Green Bay Area Public Schools from 2011-2020. Since retiring in 2020, Dr. Langenfeld served as an education consultant and was elected to serve on the Anoka-Hennepin Board of Education beginning her 4 year tenure in January of 2024. Prior to serving at Superintendent, Michelle served as an Associate Superintendent, Principal, Assistant Principal and Dean the Anoka-Hennepin School District. She also taught in both ur. . . read more.

Susan Larson

Adjunct Faculty | susan.larson@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2013

Susan Larson is a licensed Speech Language Pathologist with a history of working in public, private, and charter schools. She currently works in an urban school district as an SLP and clinical supervisor. Her strong interest and experience working with autistic individuals from age three to 21 led her to Bethel University where she began to teach in the special education program in 2013. Susan teaches courses in autism and is also a thesis advisor, a role she thoroughly enjoys. Her professi. . . read more.

Daniel Leafblad

Adjunct Assistant Professor of Healthcare and Medical Director of Physician Assistant Studies | d-leafblad@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2009

Infertility, minimally invasive endoscopic surgery, laser surgery

Jonathan Lofgren

Adjunct Instructor of Healthcare | lofjon@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2017

I'm mainly a hospitalist, but teach adjunct at the PA program.

Amie Lorence Grubidge

Adjunct Instructor of Education | amie-lorence@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2016

Adjunct Instructor of Education

Michelle Louis

Adjunct Instructor of Education | mlouis@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2000

Dr. Michelle Louis is the founder of The Leading Mind, LLC which is dedicated to merging positive psychology and applied leadership practice. She is an executive coach, consultant, and speaker who specializes in translating concepts from psychology into practical strategies for developing leaders holistically and helping organizations thrive. Dr. Louis has spent 20 years in faculty roles in higher education, most recently as Associate Professor of Doctoral Higher Education at Azusa Pacific . . . read more.

Angela Mansfield

Adjunct Instructor of Education | alm68587@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2019

My professional objective is to be an integral part of making schools into the social equalizers they can be. I believe that leadership sets the tone for student achievement. Effective leadership is able to bring educators together toward a learner-centered philosophy thereby creating a common goal of learning and achievement for everyone involved. Solid leadership will guide educators to culturally responsive, equity focused, highly effective, research-based instruction and assessment pra. . . read more.

Molly McKinnon

Adjunct Instructor of Education | moe44467@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2022

Molly graduated in 2002 with a bachelors in Elementary Education and Deaf and Hard of Hearing license. She started her teaching career in 2002 as a K-12 Special Education Itinerant Deaf and Hard of Hearing teacher. Molly then moved into the classroom working with students who have moderate to severe cognitive disabilities. She received her masters in special education in 2004 with added licenses in Developmental Cognitive Delay (DCD), and Physical and Healthy Disabilities (PHD). Molly then . . . read more.

Maia Miller

Adjunct Instructor of Education | maia-miller@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2014

Maia has been working and teaching in the special education field for over 20 years. During this time she has worked with students in all disability areas. Maia started, like many, as a para in a special education classroom. For 10 years Maia worked with middle school students teaching reading, writing, and social skills classes. She also taught in a center-based DCD program for multiple years. For the past 9 years, Maia has worked as a Work-Based Learning Coordinator for high school s. . . read more.

Melissa Miller

Adjunct Instructor of Teaching | mam95375@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2017

2017. Adjunct Instructor. Bachelor of Arts in Biology, Chemistry and Psychology minor, University of Saint Thomas, 1996. Master of Arts in Education, University of Saint Thomas, 2000. Educational Specialist in Educational Leadership, University of Saint Thomas, 2004.

Scotti Moats

Assistant Provost for Student Success | sam33348@bethel.edu / scottimoats@gmail.com | Started at Bethel: 2025

My name is Scotti Moats. I grew up in Minnesota where I attended Bethel University for my undergraduate degree. I continued on in higher education at the University of Minnesota for my Masters and Ph.D in Higher Education. I have spent the past twelve years working in higher education, both as a faculty member and administrator. Currently, I am the Assistant Provost for Student Success at Southwest Baptist University in Missouri.

Scott Moats

Adjunct Instructor of Education | scm44939@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2018

I have been in Christian Higher Education for about 34 years. I have worked in many areas, including teaching, administration, and operations.

Randy Moberg

Adjunct Instructor of Education | ram44555@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2009

Moberg has worked at Bethel since 2009.

Glenn Morehouse Olson

Adjunct Professor of Education | olsgle@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2019

Glenn Morehouse Olson is an adjunct professor for Bethel University, teaching the Language Arts Methods course in the CAPS/GS program. She is a Certified Journalism Educator who also has a Bachelor of Fine Arts in theater performance. Now in her 17th year as an educator, she teaches AP Lang and Comp, journalism (on-line, broadcast, social media, and print), theater, playwrighting and Language Arts (grades 9 - 12) at St. Francis High School. She has three daughters and her husband is also a. . . read more.

Allen Mork

Adjunct instructor | ajmork@gmail.com | Started at Bethel: 2025

I am currently a practicing family physician in Cambridge, MN where I have lived and worked for the past 33 years. I will be retiring in January 2025 and am looking forward to working with the PA program at Bethel! My wife and I have 6 children and 6 grandchildren. My interests include camping and canoeing the BWCAW, fishing, hiking, reading and beekeeping.

Jan Mrozinski

Adjunct Instructor of Education | j-mrozinski@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2016

Professor Mrozinski's education and experiences are in the fields of both mental health and special education. Given this background, she is interested in preparing teachers to serve students and families in professional, focused, and compassionate ways.

Judith Nagel

Adjunct Instructor of Education | j-nagel@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2020

Dissertation Advisor/Reader & Adjunct Instructor

Anthony Nichols

Adjunct Instructor of Counseling | at-nichols@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2024

Anthony Todd Nichols is a licensed psychologist in the State of Minnesota. He has been Executive Director of the Family Attachment and Counseling Center, located in the Twin Cities, since 1997. The center specializes in working with trauma in adults and children and specifically in adopted children who experienced early life maltreatment. Dr. Nichols is trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), and other modalities. . . read more.

Richard Olson

Adjunct MBA Instructor | rwo62666@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2017

Adjunct Instructor of Business MBA Adjunct Instructor The majority of Ric Olson's working life continues to be dedicated to serving elders within the senior living arena. The focus on serving elders has resulted in work in numerous settings including but not limited to: health care, management, leadership development and training, accounting and finance, budget and planning, cash management, project development, strategic planning, operational assessments, Medicare, Medicaid, Managed Car. . . read more.

Breanna Reed

Adjunct Instructor of Counseling | Blw18873@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2021

Breanna Reed is a Board Certified Art Therapist specializing in Anxiety, Spirituality, and Depression. She has experience working with people with physical and developmental disabilities, adolescents, and young adults. She is passionate about incorporating her client's faith perspectives into the counseling session. She is passionate about training the next generation of counselors and building a Christian support system. She is the Owner and Supervisor at Creative Connections Counseling L. . . read more.

Eric Roesler

Adjunct Professor | err79847@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2016

Eric Roesler brings over 20 years of teaching experience in Business and Marketing Education, including leadership as a department lead at Bloomington Jefferson High School. He holds an M.Ed. in Business and Marketing Education from the University of Minnesota, with additional certifications in Work Based Learning and Online Teaching from Bemidji State University. Eric excels in curriculum development, innovative teaching methods, and student mentorship. His proactive approach integrates te. . . read more.

Emily Rustman

Adjunct Professor of Education | emily.rustman@gmail.com | Started at Bethel: 2019

Emily is passionate about developing special education programs for students with special needs; focusing on social-emotional learning, strategic planning and systems theory. She enjoys collaborating and learning with other educational professionals to promote a growth mindset while developing high expectations for all students. Emily is currently the Director of Special Services for Westonka Public Schools.

Hendrika Schoon

Adjunct Instructor of Education | h-schoon@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2021

Hendrika (Hennie) Schoon has served in various capacities within the student life department for the past twenty years including dean of students, judicial advisor, and community life director. She has earned a B.S.W (Calvin University), an M.S.W (Western Michigan University) and an Ed. D, (Bethel University) and has worked in both Canadian and American universities. Along with serving as an adjunct professor, Dr. Schoon serves as an Area Coordinator at Calvin University and is a Mental Hea. . . read more.

Susan Schwope

Affiliate Faculty - Adjunct Teaching Partner Instructor of Education | s-tag@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2001

Psychology Mental Health Special Education

Jenna Seal

Adjunct Instructor of Gerontology | jks29647@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2016

Seal has held a variety of leadership roles in the field of aging services, in both assisted living environments and skilled nursing facilities. She is currently serving as the housing director of an assisted living community in St. Paul, and is actively involved in advocacy efforts for senior healthcare.

Laura Shaw

Adjunct Instructor of Education | laf72749@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2025

Laura Shaw is a dedicated educator, internationally selling artist, and mentor with over 25 years of experience in visual arts education. Passionate about integrating creativity, faith, and pedagogy, she is committed to equipping the next generation of teachers for impactful and Christ-centered careers

Paul Siebrasse

Adjunct Instructor of Business | p-siebrasse@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2015

Microeconomics, macroeconomics, capital markets, econometrics, statistics

Heidi Simons

Adjunct Instructor of Education | heidi-simons@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2020

Heidi has taught Social Studies since 1996 at Bloomington Jefferson High School, been an Instructional Mentor to 1st & 2nd year teachers and has lead professional development. In addition, she has taught at MN State University - Mankato for their Graduate Teacher Program. She is very excited to become part of the Bethel University community and work with future educators in the courses she will instruct.

Shanna Slice

Adjunct Instructor of Education | smg97337@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2022

Hello. I'm excited to be an adjunct professor at Bethel University for their graduate school art education program. After doing social service work for ten years, I went through the program I now get to teach for and became a high school art teacher. I'm passionate about both art and effective teaching in the 21st century. Outside of teaching, I enjoy creating art of course and camping, traveling, and spending time outside with my family. I believe as humans we all have the need to create. . . read more.

Rebecca Smith

Adjunct Faculty | rms23539@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2021

Rebecca currently practices in a large tertiary-care facility in southern Minnesota where she does inpatient and outpatient obstetrical care, as well as being an early pregnancy loss provider. She is pursuing a PhD with research in risk stratification in rural obstetrical patients and risk for severe maternal morbidity/mortality.

Melan Smith-Francis

Adjunct Faculty | mj-smith-francis@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2024

Certified Nurse-Midwife and Family Nurse Practitioner...loving what I do!

Raymond Sperl

Adjunct Instructor of Education | raymond-sperl@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2011

Instructional Technology Integration; Science Instruction

Michelle Steffenhagen

Teaching Partner of Psychology | allmica@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2015

Steffenhagen's research interests include purpose and wellbeing in emerging adults.

Charles Strand

Adjunct Instructor of Education | c-strand@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2000

I enjoy my work at Bethel University in the area of Special Education! As a retired special educator, my greatest passion now is to help Graduate Students be more successful as special education teachers!

Cameron Svihla

Adjunct Faculty | cameron-svihla@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2022

I'm MN born and raised. I completed both my undergraduate and graduate studies at Bethel University, completing my PA studies in 2019. For the first 2 years of my practice, I was at the CentraCare Plaza Urgent Care. I am currently a provider in the emergency department at HCMC where I plan to be long-term. Outside of medicine, I spend my time with my friends/church community, finding new music, working out, and playing a variety of sports (tennis, pickleball, golf). I'm so excited to be ba. . . read more.

Jeanne Szarzynski

Adjunct Instructor of Healthcare | j-szarzynski@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2015

Physician Assistant

David Thomas

Adjunct Instructor of Education | david-thomas@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2019

I am a proud graduate of Bethel (class of 2005). I am married to my incredible wife, Lindsey (class of '06), and we live in Lino Lakes with our 4 kids. Although I started out as a high school social studies teacher, I have spent most of my career as a special education teacher working with students with emotional and behavioral disorders. I find great joy in sharing Jesus's love with my students and coworkers. Every day God shows me grace and mercy, and I try like crazy to do the same thin. . . read more.

Corey Tolliver Sr.

Adjunct Instructor of Social Work | c-tolliver@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2023

Corey currently serves as the Director of Operations and Clinical Lead for Life Services Mental Health Agency in Richmond, Virginia. As Director of Operations, Corey implements strategies and plans to service the homeless community suffering from increased mental health symptoms, chronic homelessness, and limited support from family and friends. Corey has implemented community assistance programs and workshops for professionals on self-care and building healthy relationships with those in t. . . read more.

Nicole Truniger

Adjunct Instructor of Business | ntruniger@gmail.com | Started at Bethel: 2019

Dr. Nicole Truniger is an experienced nurse leader and educator with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP) in Healthcare Systems Leadership. She brings over a decade of diverse healthcare experience to her teaching, including bedside nursing and clinical operations. Dr. Truniger began her career as a medical-surgical nurse. She later advanced into leadership roles, where she has successfully led multidisciplinary teams and enhanced patient care delivery across multiple healthcare settings. . . . read more.

Chris Tuey

Adjunct Assistant Professor of Physician Assisting; Assessment Coordinator | tuey@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2022

Interests include clinical medicine, medical information systems, and research.

Michelle Wang

Adjunct Instructor of Education | mfw38922@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2018

Michelle's research interests focus on effective school leadership practices specifically focused on change management. Topics include equity, data/assessment, standards, school reform, and adaptive leadership.

Martha Weber

Adjunct Faculty | mlw35262@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2025

Family Medicine and Urgent Care

Ruslana Westerlund

Adjunct Associate Instructor of Education | r-westerlund@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2002

Drawing on her identity as a transcultural Ukrainian immigrant, Professor Westerlund's passion is to advocate for linguistically and culturally minoritized people, including students in school systems at various levels.

Jodi Wolkerstorfer

Adjunct Instructor of Education | woljod@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2015

Jodi is passionate about supporting current and soon-to-be educators on ways to collaborate and find success for all students including those with special education needs.

Annette Ziegler

Adjunct Instructor of Education | annette-ziegler@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2010

Annette Ziegler received her masters in educational leadership and administration from the University of LaVerne, CA, and her educational doctorate in educational leadership from Bethel University. She is the Director of State and Federal Programs and Elementary Schools in the Anoka-Hennepin School District. In her 30 years in education, she also served as the Principal of Coon Rapids High School in the Anoka-Hennepin School District and the former principal of Coon Rapids Middle School. S. . . read more.

Nikki Daniels

Associate Professor in Organizational Leadership Emerita | n-daniels@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 1989

Self Analysis, Self Leadership, Organizational Leadership, Team Development

Jamie Dolieslager

Associate Professor of Human Kinetics and Applied Health Sciences, Athletic Trainer Emerita | doljam@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2000

Associate Professor Dolieslager taught in the Human Kinetics and Applied Health Sciences department

Neal Dutton

Associate Professor of Human Kinetics and Applied Health Science | dutnea@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 1980

Athletic Training, Nutrition, and Wellbeing

Jason Li

Professor of Psychology Emeritus | j-li@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 1985

Li focuses his research on cross-cultural and multi-cultural competence in counseling. He also has a passion for exploring the integration of psychological and Christian perspectives in counseling.

Craig Paulson

Professor of Educational Leadership Emeritus | craig-paulson@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2002

Craig is a tenured faculty member within the Bethel University Doctor of Education: Leadership in Higher Education Program as well as the Doctor of Education: Leadership in K12 Administration and K12 Administrator Licenses Program. He has moved from full-time to phased-in retirement focusing on Comprehensive Examinations, Institutional Review Board approvals, and dissertation advising.

Beth Peterson

Professor of Nursing Emerita | e-peterson@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 1982

Dr. Peterson's areas of interest include mental health nursing, nursing care of the elderly, gerontology, end of life care, nursing curriculum development and assessment, and the theology of suffering. Her publications and presentations primarily focus on faith and health integration, suffering, and professional boundaries.

Ruben Rivera

Associate Professor of History Emeritus | ruben-rivera@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 1997

Ruben was the Chief Diversity Officer at Bethel University, and has long been a faculty of the history department and taught one course each semester at the college and one in the summer at the graduate school. As Chief Diversity Officer, Ruben engaged in numerous strategic initiatives across all our schools, including the Shalom seminar, developing institutional capacity in cultural intelligence and intergroup dialogue, racial and other forms of bias mitigation, hiring for inclusive excell. . . read more.

Timothy Shaw

Professor of Biological Sciences Emeritus | t-shaw@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 1985

Shaw's research interests include development of chick nervous system, the brain and feeding behavior, relationships between the structure of the brain and behavior, progress in new clinical treatment options, and the biology of morality.

Jone Tiffany

Professor of Nursing Emerita | tifjon@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 2001

Dr. Tiffany is a Professor of Nursing, Healthcare Education Consultant, and Gallup-Certified Strengths Coach. In her academic role, she is involved in designing and implementing simulations in the lab and in virtual settings; the use educational technology; and teaches Innovations in Nursing Education and Nursing Informatics. She also chairs the Credentialing and Privileging sub-committee of the Board of Directors for the Fairview Care system in Minneapolis, MN. Dr. Tiffany has presented n. . . read more.

Sandra Traudt

Associate Professor of Social Work Emerita | s-traudt@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 1999

Sande Traudt has specialized experience in integrative practice; children, youth, and families; gerontology; group work; ethics; supervision; violence prevention and intervention; trauma informed practice; resiliency; justice and spirituality; compassion fatigue; and self-care. Her years in social work education have focused on faculty liaison work, integrative seminar, practice based research, ethics, experiential learning, and utilization of case studies in social work education.. . . read more.

Samuel Zalanga

Professor of Sociology Emeritus | szalanga@bethel.edu | Started at Bethel: 1999

Zalanga's doctoral fieldwork focused on the comparative role of ruling elite coalitions in development policy formulation and implementation in Malaysia and Nigeria. He specifically studied the process and politics of neoliberal economic reforms and implementation in the two countries as part of a broader global political-economic issue of the relative role of states and the market in the contemporary incarnation of global capitalism. Zalanga grew up in the rural, social margins, and peri. . . read more.