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Appreciation and recognition

At Bethel, we encourage everyone to actively participate in seeing, appreciating, and recognizing one another. Below are a number of formal and informal appreciation and recognition events or opportunities. Please take advantage of these options and tangibly help us invest in cultivating a thriving culture and flourishing for all.

The Seen Initiative—informal appreciation

Faculty and staff are encouraged to participate in the Seen appreciation challenge each month. The intent is to cultivate a culture of seeing one another as Jesus would and honoring each other in everyday interactions. At Friday Connect, a new challenge will be highlighted on the intro slide and details will be posted in MyBethel on the employee page. Please join us in shaping our culture to be one that intentionally sees and honors one another in Christ-like ways.

The Seen Toolkit for managers—informal appreciation and recognition resources

If you lead a team or department and are looking for resources to informally appreciate or formally recognize members of your area, they can be found under Supervisor Resources on the developing employees page. These resources are designed to help managers model seeing, appreciating, and recognizing those around them.

Bethel Celebration—formal recognition

Twice a year, come and celebrate the service and career milestones of your colleagues! See who has reached their five, 10, and 15 year milestones. Hear about those who have dedicated their careers to Bethel and are celebrating their 20, 25, 30, etc. year anniversary. All teams and departments are encouraged to close the office for one hour in order to come and enjoy appetizers, a community connection activity, and a short program.

Fall Celebration: Thursday, November 7, 2 p.m., Olson Boardroom

Spring Celebration: Tuesday, March 25, 2 p.m., location TBD

Retirement events—informal appreciation

Designed to honor colleagues as they transition from their role at Bethel, retirement events are offered in both the fall and spring. These events are open house by design so employees from across the university can stop by as their schedule allows and wish their colleague congratulations on their retirement. Watch eAnnouncements for dates and times.

Coming spring of 2025—recognition event of the year

All Bethel faculty, staff, and administrators are invited to attend this new event designed to be the recognition event of the year. Core Value Mark of Distinction winners as well as other award recipients will be announced and celebrated. Join us for appetizers, activities, and awards. More information to come in 2025.

Core Value Mark of Distinction information

Orendain-Gardener Inclusive Excellence Award

  • Background on award
  • Nomination award