Spring semester is a normal time for retirement announcements.

Donna Becker ’70, assistant professor of nursing, at a reception for Bethel retirees.  Photo by Vada SniderDonna Becker ’70, assistant professor of nursing, at a reception for Bethel retirees. Photo by Vada Snider

However, this spring and summer saw an exodus of an unusually high number of years of Bethel wisdom and experience.

As President Perry D. White noted in one of the final awards convocations of the school year, it’s more than 150 years—in fact, it’s 171:

  • Donna Becker ’70, assistant professor of nursing—15 years
  • Russ Graber ’74, associate professor of health and physical education—26 years
  • Marla Krell ’97, director of experiential learning and career services—26 years
  • James Lynch, assistant archivist, Mennonite Library and Archives —13 years
  • Frank Nachtigal ’62, maintenance/custodial staff —22 years
  • Mary Regier ’70, administrative assistant to the director of development—39 years
  • Dale Schrag ’69, director of church relations and campus pastor—30 years