MANKATO, MN – The Bethany Lutheran College Board of Regents has unanimously elected Dr. Gene Pfeifer (56) of Inver Grove Heights, Minnesota, to become the tenth president of the College, beginning July 1, 2015.
Pfeifer has served as President of St. Croix Lutheran Grades 6-12 in West St. Paul, Minnesota, since 2007. Prior to his tenure at St. Croix, Pfeifer was Professor of Education and Director of Clinical Experiences at Martin Luther College (MLC) from 1993 until 2007. Under Pfeifer’s leadership, St. Croix has seen significant growth in both traditional and international enrollment numbers, and has expanded the campus of the private, Christian, college preparatory school.
Pfeifer earned a bachelor’s degree from MLC, a master of science in education from The University of Wisconsin – Whitewater, and a doctor of philosophy in education, curriculum and instruction from the University of Minnesota.
Pfeifer is married to Carrie Pfeifer, who holds a doctor of education with special education focus from Nova Southeastern University. She will be joining the faculty at Bethany as a full-time associate professor in the Education Department, and also serve as Learning Disabilities Coordinator.
“My wife, Carrie, and I have been impressed by the Regents’ professionalism, depth of understanding of Bethany’s needs, and passion for the College’s mission. To have been elected by this group is humbling and an honor, said Pfeifer.
“What became clear to me were the number of opportunities that exist for Bethany Lutheran College. Everyone appears ready to dive in and work together to advance the College’s mission as a Christ-centered, liberal arts college with a passion for serving its students and the community. We’re excited about joining the Bethany and Mankato communities and engaging with the faculty, staff, students, alumni, and friends.”
Pfeifer will succeed Dr. Dan R. Bruss, who announced in February 2014 his pending retirement effective June 30, 2015.
Bethany Lutheran College has seen significant changes during the tenure of Dr. Bruss.
The College’s academic offerings have grown from five majors to twenty; a new, state of the art academic building (Rudolph E. Honsey Hall) was added; and the College’s endowment per student ranks among the top in Minnesota.
Rev. Herbert Huhnerkoch, chair of Bethany’s Board of Regents, said, “The Regents of Bethany Lutheran College warmly welcome Dr. Pfeifer and his wife, Carrie, to the campus. Throughout the election process, it became clear that Dr. Pfeifer’s dedication to the mission of Bethany Lutheran College, his demonstrated leadership skills, wide-ranging experiences, and desire to prepare leaders grounded in the Christian faith, were personal attributes the College could benefit from as it looks to the future.”
MEDIA: An opportunity to meet President-Elect Pfeifer is currently being arranged. If members of the press desire to speak with Dr. Pfeifer prior to that time, please contact Lance Schwartz at 507-344-7427.
Download high-resolution photos
 | Dr. Gene Pfeifer (Download) |
 | Dr. Dan Bruss (Download) |