Donor giving to Hesston College is not a cookie cutter model, but rather can happen through a variety of ways and is often fueled by donors’ interests and passions. For Myrl and Phyllis (Liechty) ’69 Nofziger, their giving to Hesston College is fueled by steadfast faith in Christ and in this institution that has been a place of growth and inspiration for many of their family members.

“Our family history with Hesston is probably as deep as with any institution,” said Myrl.

Myrl noted that his daughter Renee (Nofziger) ’94 Hernley’s time at Hesston helped her develop direction and meaning for future endeavors. Likewise, Hesston gave Phyllis a start to her nursing career and established a foundation for her to eventually pursue a second path and earn a law degree from Valparaiso (Ind.) University. Later, Phyllis served 12 years with the Hesston College Board of Overseers. Several of Phyllis’ siblings and brothers-in-law also attended Hesston College, as well as Myrl’s brother Roger Nofziger Ac53, along with Myrl’s first wife’s (deceased) father, William John Helmuth.

“The quality of education at Hesston College and the dedication of not only faculty but staff is incredible,” said Myrl. “We want other students to consider Hesston as well.”

The importance of Mennonite education was stressed to Myrl and his brothers early in life.

“My parents had formal education through junior high school and then were needed at home,” said Myrl. “But they had a strong belief in higher education; particularly Christian education, and specifically Mennonite education. When I was 10 years old, my parents moved the family from Archbold, Ohio, to Goshen, Indiana, so their three sons would grow up in a Mennonite college community.”

It is this history and these experiences that encourage the Nofzigers to fund an endowment at Hesston College that provides scholarships for minority nursing students. Their gift makes it financially possible for many to start at Hesston and pursue their dreams.

The Nofzigers operate by a philosophy of giving that is simple and poignant: The more you give, the more you will receive. The more you help someone else achieve their goals, the sooner you will achieve your goals.

It’s a message that can also serve as inspiration to those students who benefit from the nurturing, supportive education and atmosphere that Hesston College provides. Start here to learn from faculty and staff who recognize each student’s value and encourage students to be the best they can be. Start here to connect your passions and your life’s work.

“Once students are on campus and can experience the Christ-centered, student-focused community that is Hesston College, they’re hooked.”