Bethel remembers Don Benson
By Heather Schnese S’12, content specialist
April 16, 2025 | 1 p.m.
Don Benson was a visionary leader and devoted Bethel supporter for decades.
Donald Benson was a visionary leader and generous supporter whose faith-filled commitment helped shape Bethel University’s campus and mission—most visibly through Benson Great Hall, which bears his name. Benson died April 7, 2025, at the age of 94. “We give thanks for Don Benson’s life, his generosity, and the ways his gifts continue to shape the Bethel experience for all of us,” says Vice President of University Advancement Jeanne Osgood.
A Minneapolis native, Benson's connection to Bethel began in the 1930s through his involvement with First Swedish Baptist Church, now Bethlehem Baptist Church. His commitment to Bethel's mission led him to play a pivotal role in establishing the Bethel Foundation—an independent nonprofit that supports Bethel financially—in 1971. He also chaired the foundation’s Board of Governors for 28 years. His leadership was instrumental in guiding the university's financial strategies and expanding its academic programs.
Don Benson (center) poses with the rest of the Bethel Foundation Board of Governors and past Bethel President George Brushaber (standing, far right) in the board's early days.
Benson Great Hall remains one of the most visible and visited spots on Bethel’s campus. The performing arts center holds countless Chapel services, theater productions, and everyday moments for the Bethel community. It also hosts thousands of people for concerts, ceremonies, and community events, including the annual Festival of Christmas, which Benson never missed. He was also a season ticket holder for the St. Paul Chamber Orchestra and attended the group’s four annual appearances in Benson Great Hall. An extension of Benson’s support is the Roberta Mann Benson Welcome Center (formerly in the Lundquist Community Life Center, currently part of the admissions guest center remodel) named in honor of Benson’s late wife.
In 2019, Bethel awarded Benson the fifth Presidential Medal of Honor, acknowledging his extraordinary service and philanthropy. Reflecting on the honor at the time, Benson pointed to the heart behind his decades of support. “I’ve always supported Bethel because I believed in Bethel,” Benson said.
His legacy continues to inspire the Bethel community, reflecting a life dedicated to faith, leadership, and transformative generosity.
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Continue the legacy of generosity that shapes the Bethel community through spaces like Benson Great Hall. Your gift helps equip future world-changers for lives of purpose and impact.