Bethel College selection

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In the recent press release from Bethel College, North Newton, Kan., announcing the appointment of Perry White as the new president (see page 39), I was surprised by the lack of information concerning White’s Christian involvement and commitment. The press release mentioned that Dr. White was baptized as an adult, that he had been involved with Presbyterian and Catholic colleges, and that he has a strong ability in the area of development and fund-raising. While his abilities in development and creating four choirs are laudable and highly praised by the Bethel board of directors, one area that is not mentioned is his faith commitment. All that is mentioned is his adult believer's baptism. I am happy to know that, but I care more about his faith commitment and church activities than his community-based activities.

I am concerned about the direction Bethel College may end up going when the press release spends more time on White’s fund-raising and development abilities than it does on his faith commitments.

In my years in Mennonite churches, I have supported Bethel College. I've
wanted my children to attend Bethel, but that has not happened. I truly
pray that Bethel's board of directors made the best decision for the
school.

Editor's note: When a reader criticizes a Mennonite Church USA institution or leader, we reserve the right to have that institution or leader respond to the letter in the same issue. We invited Melvin Goering, chair of the Bethel College board, to respond. He declined.

Associated Article: News alert: Perry D. White is Bethel College's new president

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