In the News

International Day of Peace recognition to feature global engagement and community partnership

With a commitment to global engagement and gaining a greater understanding of common humanity, Hesston College is planning a week-long recognition of International Day of Peace with events from Sept. 16 to 21.

The featured event for the week is a Global Voices concert collaboration between Hesston College’s Bel Canto Singers and Hesston High School Singers at 7 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 21, at Hesston Mennonite Church on the Hesston College campus. The concert is free and open to the public.

The Hesston College Bel Canto Singers are under the direction of Dr. Russell Adrian, and the Hesston High Singers are under the direction of Darren Enns.

“International Day of Peace provides an opportunity to explore and celebrate the gift of global presence on the Hesston College campus,” said John Murray, dean of global engagement. “It is an opportunity to begin to build cross cultural skills and relationships that are mutually enriching in their diversity, and to extend that gift beyond the campus to the local community.”

International Day of Peace, or Peace Day, is observed around the world each year on Sept. 21. Originally established by a United Nations resolution in 1981 as a day of global ceasefire and non-violence, the day’s observance has expanded to be a globally shared date for all humanity to commit to and build a culture of peace.

Over the decades, Peace Day has developed a specific focus each year, with the 2019 theme being “Climate Action for Peace,” seeking to address the global climate emergency as a threat to security and stability.

Following the Global Voices concert, Hesston College students will present work on peace and creation care in a peace display open house in the Hesston Mennonite Church Community Center.

As the Hesston College community is made up of students from 26 countries, intentional global engagement and understanding is important to ensuring the campus community is cultivating its stated value of celebrating differences in backgrounds and cultures and making every effort to learn from each other.

“We are fortunate to have such a diverse learning environment at Hesston College, and we want to ensure all of our students have opportunities to learn from and appreciate the richness that our differences bring, yet also recognize the common humanity that unites us,” said Murray.

In addition to the concert, the public is welcome to attend Hesston College’s other Peace Day events and discussions:

• Monday, Sept. 16, 11 a.m., Hesston College Chapel at Hesston Mennonite Church featuring the Hesston College Peace and Service Club.
• Wednesday, Sept. 18, 11 a.m., Hesston College Chapel at Hesston Mennonite Church featuring the peace pole and global walkway.
• Friday, Sept. 20, 11 a.m., Hesston College Forum on creation care at Hesston Mennonite Church.

Industry partnership provides student internship and growth experiences

During the summer, as many students enjoyed the break from classes and formal learning, Tobie Plett jumped head first into a business-focused internship with Harper (Kan.) Industries.

Having just finished his first year as a business major at Hesston College, Plett passed on an opportunity to spend his summer at home in East St. Paul, Manitoba, Canada, and instead focus on his career aspirations.

Harper Industries manufactures equipment for agriculture, hydraulics, landscaping and sports turf management, including the brand names DewEze and Harper Turf Equipment, and Plett took on various roles at the company, primarily in production administration and accounting.

“My regular work day usually consisted of processing inventory change in the company’s database and processing completed orders,” said Plett. “In accounting I handled checks and invoices. I also prepared received invoices to be paid by the accounts payable department.”

Student internships and other practical learning opportunities have been part of Hesston College’s promise to students for decades. While many internships are sought to fit students’ particular interest, the college is grateful to have maintained an internship partnership with Harper Industries for nearly 20 years.

“We have had Hesston College summer interns for most of the 20 years we have had a relationship with Hesston College,” said Harper Industries CEO Tim Penner. “Our intent is to give practical experience to students who are studying business, sales, marketing, accounting and engineering. Hesston has sent us extremely qualified students, and this program has been beneficial to both Harper and the interns.”

“The diverse work environments I was set in allowed for a better understanding of the agro-manufacturing business,” said Plett. “I got to witness Harper’s day-to-day business operations from making a sale to having an order fulfilled. I also got the opportunity to network and learn from a lot of different people who taught me about my work, the industry and my future goals.”

In the ever changing landscape of higher education, Hesston College administrators have noted partnerships with industry organizations as an important aspect for future success. Students want opportunities to build their skills and knowledge in practical ways, and employers are looking to hire highly competent and highly capable individuals.

“If the fit is right, we look to eventually hire interns,” said Penner. “The internship is a great training ground and it gives both the student and Harper a great way to get to know each other, and give the student an understanding of where they might best work in a business.”

As Hesston continues to expand academic offerings through bachelor degree programs, it hopes to build more relationships like the one with Harper Industries.

“As I’m settling into year two of the business program at Hesston, I’m looking to take my studies to the next level,” said Plett. “Working for Harper Industries has allowed me to do just that with field experience in an industry that I previously knew very little about. In the future, I hope to get even more hands-on experience, possibly in sales and finance.”

“Overall, Harper tested and expanded my education, and helped me develop quality life skills, connections and spiritual growth,” Plett said. “I am grateful for the relationship Harper Industries and Hesston College have had for many years, and for the investments they both make with students’ and business education.”

Annual Manickam Mosey race part of Homecoming 2019

Hesston College invites runners and walkers of all ages and skill levels to The Manickam Mosey Two-Mile Run/Walk, a 28-year Hesston College tradition, on Saturday, Sept. 29, at 9 a.m. The route traverses the Hesston College campus and neighboring Dyck Arboretum of the Plains.

See online registration and more information. Participants who register by Sept. 18 will pay an early entry fee of $20 for adults and $15 for ages 18 and under. Registration starting Sept. 19 increases to $25 for all ages.

Medals will be given to overall and age group winners, along with a chance to win door prizes.

Race spectators and participants can also enjoy free coffee and refreshments by the Hesston Bakery and Café coffee truck from 9 to 10:30 on the Hesston College Larks Nest patio, while also enjoying live music by Hesston College students.

The Manickam Mosey, which is part of Hesston College’s homecoming weekend and the City of Hesston’s community-wide Home Sweet Hesston celebration, is named in honor of Hesston College President Dr. Joseph A. Manickam.

Homecoming Golf Benefit to honor alumnus and golf aficionado

Hesston College’s annual Homecoming Golf Benefit on Thursday, Sept. 26 at Hesston Golf Park will honor alumnus Floyd Sowers ’71, who organized and managed the annual golf benefit on behalf of Hesston College for six years, combining his passion for support of students with his love for golf.

“Floyd and the entire Sowers family have made so many contributions to Hesston College and cared so deeply for our students, we’re honored to recognize him for years of partnership through one of his favorite pastimes,” said Rachel Swartzendruber Miller, Hesston College vice president of Advancement.

Event information and registration can be found online. The deadline to register is Sept. 23.

Participants will golf in teams of four. Team registrations are welcome, as well as individual registrations. Golf registration is $125 per person and includes green fees, cart, range balls and a prime rib dinner catered by The Water’s Edge restaurant. Hole sponsorships are also available starting at $200.

Thanks to sponsors, including Garber Surveying Service, 100 percent of proceeds will benefit the Hesston College Annual Fund, which supports all aspects of the student experience.

Sowers and his wife, Bonnie, along with other family members plan to be at the event for the honor and to interact with friends and golfers.

Sophomore among 19 students state-wide to receive scholarship for service and success

The Kansas Independent College Foundation, (KICF), on behalf of its 20-member institutions, is proud to announce the 2019 Maud Wyatt Recognition Scholarship Recipients. KICF awards up to 20 individual scholarships, for a student at each Foundation member institution. The recipients are all full-time, degree seeking students on the cusp of graduation, and have each demonstrated excellence in academics, character and integrity, and a commitment to the value of a private college education in Kansas. These students maintain GPAs of 3.5 or above while also contributing to their respective communities.

Hannah Klusman, a sophomore from Ford, Kan., is the recipient from Hesston College. Klusman is studying English.

Recipients from the other member institutions are:

• Baker University – Caelan Rogers, an English literature major and native of Lawrence, Kan.
• Barclay College – Ashley Weinacht, a theology and worship Arts major from Greenleaf, Idaho
• Benedictine College – Jeremy Larsen, a biochemistry major and native of Nortonville, Kan.
• Bethany College – Lydia Nicholson, a digital art major from Hesston, Kan.
• Bethel College – Kaci Wilson, a chemistry major and a resident of Sterling, Kan.
• Central Christian College of Kansas – Melissa Reimer, an elementary education major from Hesston, Kan.
• Cleveland University-Kansas City – Darrell McDonald, a human biology major from Kansas City, Mo.
• Donnelly College – Lilliana Rodriguez, a liberal arts major and native of Kansas City, Kan.
• Friends University – MaKayla Hollis, a biology major and resident of Conway Springs, Kan.
• Kansas Wesleyan University – Hailey Vandevanter, a business major from Georgetown, Ky.
• Manhattan Christian College – Davinna Farney, a Bible & leadership major from Park City, Kan.
• McPherson College – Kento Aizawa, a mathematics major local to McPherson, Kan.
• MidAmerica Nazarene University – Maris George, an elementary education major from Cimarron, Kan.
• Newman University – Taylor White, an art major local to Wichita, Kan.
• Southwestern College – Niyonkuru Innocent, an accounting major from Jamestown, N.D.
• Sterling College – Zoe Oppriecht, a health sciences major and native of Kansas City, Mo.
• Tabor College – Tassanee Sanchez, an elementary education major from Abbotsford, British Columbia, Canada
• University of Saint Mary – Rachel Thomas, a chemistry and biology major from Claremore, Okla.

The scholarship was established in 1995 through the generosity of Maud Wyatt, whose bequest has supported the work of KICF and its institutions since 1961. The Kansas Independent College Foundation seeks to develop, promote, and direct unified approaches to selected corporations, foundations, and individuals for financial support of Kansas’ independent colleges and universities.

Faculty and staff join community

Hesston College announces new faculty and staff joining the campus community for the 2019-20 year.

• Cory Allen, English professor.
• Christie Bell, head softball coach.
• Heather Dean, Dining Services office manager.
• Lisa George, Chief Financial Officer.
• Del Hershberger, Vice President of Admissions and Financial Aid.
• Madison Hoffman-Schrag, graphic designer.
• Carla Hurst, assistant preschool teacher and assistant bookstore manager.
• Micah Hurst, campus pastor.
• Terrence Jones, resident director.
• Emily Kauffman, resident director.
• Kristin Kaufman, ACCESS Lab coordinator
• Leon Leachman, business instructor.
• Todd Lehman, interim head cross country and track and field coach.
• Selena Lopez, assistant softball coach and Dining Services assistant.
• Collin Loutensock, sports information director.
• Eric Metzger, adjunct aviation instructor.
• Carren Moham, associate academic dean.
• Marena Nachtigall, Larks Nest manager.
• Kristal Potter, nursing clinical instructor.
• Marcy Renollet, adjunct nursing instructor.
• Kathryn Roth, admissions counselor.
• Jessica Schrock-Ringenberg, director of Center for Anabaptist Leadership and Learning.
• Melanie Seiler, Dining Services assistant.
• Tabitha Stokes, Dining Services assistant.
• Dawne Taylor, nursing clinical instructor.
• Johnathon Vetter, adjunct aviation instructor.
• Whitney Werth, interim head athletic trainer.

Opening Weekend: August 16 to 18

Hesston College is gearing up for another new school year, and will kick off the 2019-20 year with Opening Weekend activities August 16 to 18, and the first day of the fall term on August 19.

Community members are welcome to join the campus community for several weekend community-building activities, including:

• Opening Celebration, 8 p.m., Friday, Aug. 16, Hesston Mennonite Church
• Opening Worship with the Hesston Mennonite congregation, 10:30 a.m., Sunday, Aug. 18, Hesston Mennonite Church
• Mod Olympics, 6:45 p.m., Sunday, Aug. 18, Sieber Soccer Field

See the full Opening Week schedule.

To keep up to date with on- and off-campus college events and activities, see or subscribe to the public campus events calendar.

Now Boarding: Vision 2025

Early in 2019, Hesston College administrators began unveiling a growth plan that gives the Hesston College of the future some distinct differences from the Hesston College of the last 110 years.

Namely, four-year bachelor degree programs in a handful of carefully selected academic programs by the year 2025.

The plan is called Vision 2025. It’s a future-looking strategy that offers experiences and degrees “infused with global, experiential and applied learning opportunities through industry and church-affiliated partners.”

“Our intent is to continue to add key four-year programs focused on careers and giving students viable job options,” said President Joe Manickam ’87. “Right now, we’re exploring what those areas may be. We don’t intend to become a fully four-year institution. We will continue our current two-year model that equips students with a strong liberal arts foundation and life skills and helps them be better informed in making decisions for their final two years of an undergraduate program. This is a way for Hesston College to remain relevant in the ever changing landscape of higher education and in the job market for students.”

The seeds for Vision 2025 were planted sometime in the last decade when administrators, faculty and board members began to take a careful look at trends in industry, employer and student demands, and consider them in relation to academic programs and overall growth in student numbers.

As a popular and thriving program, nursing was the first to take the plunge into four-year in 2015. The nursing industry had issued a vision for 80 percent of the workforce to have a bachelor’s degree by 2020. With only an associate degree program to speak of, faculty and administrators knew they would have to make a change to remain relevant.

Four years later, the college is adding nearly 10,000 square feet of physical space to accommodate the program that has continued to thrive despite being the only four-year option on a two-year campus.

In January, the aviation program received approval from the Higher Learning Commission accrediting agency to join nursing in the four-year ranks with a Bachelor of Science in Aviation-Professional Pilot this August.

When Manickam took the Hesston College leadership reins in August 2017, he spent the first year of his presidency exploring the college at its core and what it meant for program offerings and student opportunities. The four-year nursing program was already in place and plans were circulating for aviation as well. But in considering the question “What does the world need from Hesston College?” Manickam recognized the possibility for even more bachelor’s degree offerings.

“The foundation of Hesston College is intentional community, Christ-centered discipleship and living out our Anabaptist values by looking globally, having a respect for everyone’s background and offering students relevant opportunities, support and direction so they can thrive,” said Manickam.

The development of any future bachelor’s degree program includes, in part, focus on applied work experiences, global engagement through transcultural experiences, and connections with industry partners as a way to broaden students’ knowledge and understanding within their academic field.

With aviation, for example, these areas of focus include opportunities for students in their third and fourth years to be flight instructors for first- and second-year students in the college’s program, or to hold internship positions with aviation-related companies in the area.

“Hesston College Aviation recognizes the imperativeness of preparing each student for their future aviation endeavors,” said program director Mike Baker ’93. “Through the establishment of substantive industry partnerships, Hesston College Aviation will be better positioned to facilitate the successful placements of its graduates.”

Other programs that are now in the research and development phase for potential four-year expansion are business and engineering.

Even as the college looks to make changes, Manickam ensures that the Hesston College of the last 110 years will endure as the college’s mission, purpose and personality remain rooted in the same faithfulness and community that has shaped and carried it for more than a century.

And the two-year programs, experience and opportunities aren’t going anywhere. The language Manickam has used to introduce this concept to the campus community is “two plus two.”

“It’s the first two years at Hesston College with the same relationship-focused, nurturing, supportive environment we’re known for with involvement opportunities for first- and second-year students, followed by two years of a career-focused professional program either within Hesston’s professional programs or at whatever institution students transfer to,” said Manickam. “It’s start here, go everywhere!”

In addition to degree program development, part of the vision for increased global engagement includes the development of non-degree programs that are able to reach beyond the traditional student and enhance personal and professional skills.

• In January, the college added a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) track to the nursing program that provides entry level skills and knowledge to high school students and others exploring the nursing field.
• The college has been developing an Intensive English Language Program (IELP) over the last year that will have a soft launch in August. The program will provide additional English language training to incoming international students to Hesston College, those attending other schools across the country, and immigrants to the area.
• A new ministry program, the Center of Anabaptist Leadership and Learning (CALL), will be developed during the 2019-20 year. The program will provide Anabaptist theology and nurture missional leadership for pastors and other church leaders in a distance-based format. Jessica Schrock ’02 –Ringenberg has been hired as program director.

“Hesston College has something to offer the world, and we are being beckoned to engage widely,” said Manickam. “God has been faithful on this campus for more than 100 years, and the opportunities that are now before us are a testament to God’s ongoing care of the Hesston College community.”

Japanese youth visit on language study tour

Hesston College has been hosting international students on campus for more than 70 years, but this summer, they’re doing it in a new way.

Eight Japanese high school students and two sponsors arrived to campus on July 30 for a week and a half-long English Language Study Tour.

“This is a short-term program that allows the students to develop their English language skills in an immersive setting, and also lets them explore Hesston College as an option for collegiate study in the United States,” said Chandra Johnson, director of Hesston College’s new Intensive English Language Program (IELP).

The students all come to Kansas with beginner level English, but the trip allows them to be immersed in the language and improve their conversation skills, as well as learn about American culture.

The trip is filled with English language classes, discovering what majors Hesston College offers and exploring South Central Kansas. Each day’s activities are planned around a theme – Thursday’s Aviation Day included visits to Executive AirShare at Jabara Aiport in Wichita, a trip to the Kansas Aviation Museum, and a visit to Hesston College’s Aviation program hub at the Newton City/County Airport. Other day’s lessons are health care, farm and nature, business, and art and theatre.

The group is from Osaka Yuhigaoka Gakuen high school (OYGHS). Coming from Osaka, a city of nearly 3 million people, to Hesston, Kansas, a community just over one percent of the population size as their home, is a big change to say the least. The students will stay in the Hesston College dorms for much of the visit, but during the weekend, each student will stay with a host family and further explore the area.

A trip like this has been in the works for a while. Dave Osborne, former Hesston College Director of International Admissions, began building a relationship with OYGHS in 1998 when he first visited the school. Over the next 19 years, he visited the school 16 times and the school sent 12 students to study at Hesston College.

With the launch of Hesston’s Intensive English Language Program at the start of the new school year in August, program faculty hope language study trips like this one will continue.

“It’s exciting to be able to offer this new kind of experience to international groups,” said Johnson. “We look forward to the relationships that will continue to grow through it.”