Bethel Honors Military Veterans

This fall, Bethel launched its new Office of Military and Veteran Services, headed by Chaplain John Morris S’86, a retired Colonel who was named Bethel Seminary Alumnus of the Year in 2014. Along with a stellar record of service, including at the Pentagon, Morris brought a sense of mission and focus to Bethel’s already strong commitment to supporting military-affiliated students and training military chaplains. A number of recent events highlight this focus:

• In October, Morris took took 12 Bethel staff and faculty members to Camp Ripley, Minnesota, for a day of orientation with the Minnesota National Guard.             
• In early November, Bethel hosted the Minnesota National Guard Chaplain Corps for a day of chaplaincy training on campus. Both President Jay Barnes and Bethel Seminary Dean Peter Vogt were on hand to welcome and address the group.
• Bethel University has again been designated as a “Yellow Ribbon” school for 2019-2020. The Yellow Ribbon program is a provision of the post-9/11 GI Bill that allows veterans to attend a private school for little or no out-of-pocket cost. “The Yellow Ribbon designation is a key item in search criteria for young veterans,” says Morris. “This is significant for Bethel in drawing and supporting our vets.”
• On November 11, Bethel recognized all veterans during a chapel service. Veterans wore a special button identifying their military service as the Bethel community honored their commitment and continued to pledge support for their ongoing journey.

Bethel’s Office of Military and Veteran Services exists to synchronize Bethel’s resources to ensure a veteran-friendly campus. Other goals include increasing awareness and support for military-affiliated student within the Bethel community while implementing strong recruiting initiatives and connecting with alumni and donors. In doing so, Bethel honors its long history of connection to military members who have attended here. “Bethel should be proud,” says Morris. “We have quietly served the nation by training leaders of faith.”

Military Benefits at Bethel University

Bethel offers resources and support for military veterans and families. Military benefits, grants, and scholarships make a Bethel degree a logical and accessible option for vets.

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