Bethel Mourns Former President

Bethel says Bennett was a "visionary" during some of the most challenging time in the college's history.

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Bethel College is mourning the loss of former president James Bennett, who the school says led it through a time when the college was in a "life-preserving mode." Bennett passed away last week at 78. He led the Mishawaka school from 1982-1988.

Bethel says Bennett was a "visionary" during some of the most challenging time in the college’s history. Despite limited capital, the 30,000 square-foot Otis and Elizabeth Bowen Library was built under his leadership. Bennett’s tenure also included upgrades to the school’s baseball field, which Bethel says were "vital" to a growing athletic program.

The school says, during Bennett’s time in office, Bethel launched a nursing program, a visual communication major, a master of ministries program and an adult studies program.

Visitation will be held Monday, October 12 from 4:00-7:00 p.m. in the Everest-Rohrer Chapel/Fine Arts Center’s Weaver Rotunda on Bethel’s campus. The funeral is scheduled for 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, October 13 in the building’s auditorium.