Bethany Theological Seminary welcomed nine new students this fall as they met for orientation on August 22 and 23. Ranging from recent college graduates to career professionals in their fifties, members of the new class are pursuing the master of divinity, Certificate of Achievement in Theological Studies (CATS), and the Theopoetics and Theological Imagination certificate, one of three new graduate certificates Bethany is offering this year. One person is enrolled as an occasional student.
Representing new students: Kindra Kreislers, Evan Underbrook, Steven Petersheim
Mary Garvey, Huntingdon, Pennsylvania
Jason Haldeman, Bethel, Pennsylvania
Emily Hollenberg, Fort Wayne, Indiana
Kindra Kreislers, Saginaw, Michigan
Jan Orndorff, Woodstock, Virginia
Steven Petersheim, Richmond, Indiana
Jacob Pilipski, Bristow, Virginia
Timothy Troyer, Huntington, Indiana
Evan Underbrink, Durham, North Carolina
Bringing experience from a variety of backgrounds, this group of students is recognized for academic strength by faculty and staff involved in Bethany’s admissions process. Four members currently teach or have taught at the undergraduate level; others have been involved in congregational ministry, college administrative support, and professional writing. Two students come from religious traditions other than Church of the Brethren.
Along with new students at partner school Earlham School of Religion, these Bethany students were introduced to faculty and staff from both schools and joined in a community potluck picnic during orientation. They also met privately with Bethany faculty and staff to discuss course schedules, financial aid, and campus services. In addition, two Bethany students have changed programs, from CATS to the master of arts and from occasional status to the Theopoetics and Theological Imagination certificate.
Green Circle: Bethany invests in 100% renewable energy.