☰ In This Section

Bethel Celebrates Commencement

Loading Gallery...

Bethel University held commencement ceremonies on Saturday, May 26, for 838 graduates from the College of Arts & Sciences, College of Adult & Professional Studies, and Graduate School. Graduates attended one of four commencement ceremonies, held in Benson Great Hall, depending on the degree they received. Congressman Randy Hultgren (IL-14), a 1988 graduate of Bethel University, delivered the commencement address, reflecting on his own memories of Bethel and inspiring graduates to rely on God and “to change this world for His glory.”

“I love how God chooses to use ordinary people, from all around the world, with a work that continues beyond our lives to weave a tapestry of his faithfulness,” Hultgren said during his address. “We are all called to be salt and light. It is only through God that we are made salty and bright. Jesus is the light that shines through us.”

Three seniors offered reflections during the College of Arts & Sciences ceremonies: Lauren Otto, bachelor’s degree in physics and mathematics; Ethan Anderson, bachelor’s degree in economics and finance; and Sarah Mikul, bachelor’s degree in youth ministry. Deborah Meissner, bachelor’s degree in nursing, and Hillary Bayard, master’s degree in business administration, spoke during the ceremony for the College of Adult & Professional Studies and Graduate School.

An additional 207 students will graduate from Bethel Seminary on June 2, from Bethel Seminary San Diego on June 9, and from Bethel Seminary of the East on June 16.