For Andrew (‘10) and Sarah (Doebbeling ‘11) Gerda Bethany Lutheran College (BLC) wasn’t on their college radar until their pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in St. Francis, Minnesota, mentioned BLC to them. His Bethany experience was the catalyst that helped to convince them to visit Bethany, and eventually enroll.

Sarah explained, “The small campus and Christ-centered education drew us to tour and eventually apply to Bethany. Another important factor for me was the opportunity for financial assistance. Being able to afford a private college seemed impossible, but the financial assistance available through Bethany made it possible.”

Andy mentioned, “Another reason I chose Bethany was the small class sizes. I liked the idea of individualized attention versus feeling like a number at a larger university.”

Andy and Sarah’s time at Bethany inspired them to, not long after graduating from Bethany, give back to their alma mater by establishing a need-based scholarship in order to help others have the experience they valued.

Sarah explained, “We wanted to give back to Bethany after graduation to show our gratitude for the education we received. We looked into starting a scholarship and contacted Art Westphal (Vice President of Advancement) with some questions. He came to our house to help us set everything up, and he gave us the same personalized attention we had received from our professors during our education at Bethany.

“We both feel that our experience at Bethany has impacted our lives. Our education was well rounded and allowed us to study many areas of interest, but always focused on ‘The One Thing Needful.’ Our hope is that our support will help other students make the choice to continue their education at Bethany and receive the same impact.”

Bethany Lutheran College is humbled and thankful for the the support Andy and Sarah Gerda have provided. and also for their generous commitment which allows future students at Bethany to achieve their academic dreams and aspirations.