Recognizing hard work : Faculty members promoted, granted tenure

By Jason Fox

As the world of academia becomes more and more dependent on adjunct college faculty who swing through an institution couple times a week to teach a class, Bethel College increasingly stands out for its ability to make lasting commitments with its professors.

In a society where job security is paramount, Bethel has taken an effective step in keeping our academic environment open and free of business-oriented politics. Recently five faculty members were either promoted or granted tenure in recognition of their hard work and dedication to the college.

Both Ami Regier and Brad Born were promoted from assistant to associate professors of English, and granted tenure. Both were extremely pleased with the committee's decision to compensate their work here.

"Professionally, receiving tenure is an affirmation of the work one has done, but it also has a personal element as well," said Born. He further commented that he enjoys working for Bethel because he appreciates the students and colleagues as well as the institution.

Regier was "very pleased to make tenure and promotion" especially in light on the national collegiate trend of moving away from the tenure model.

Associate biology professor Jon Piper was also granted tenure.

"When I first came to Bethel someone told me that if I kept the needs of the student in front of my own needs, then I would be fine. I have kept that as an ideal by which to work," said Piper.

Gregg Schroeder and Kay Penner were promoted from assistant to associate professors of nursing and each given three-year renewable contracts.

"I feel very affirmed by the faculty and students of Bethel College and am very pleased [with my promotion]," said Penner.

Tenure and promotion are, in the larger light of institutional strategy, fundamental tools in establishing a free, relaxed educational environment in which the pursuit of knowledge and education is allowed to develop uninhibited by the vices of politics or personality games. Each of the faculty who was recently promoted conveyed a deep appreciation for the community's recognition of their abilities. Promotion and tenure are certainly elements of a career that are worthy of attention, so don't forget to congratulate these five faculty members when you see them on campus.