Author: Dennis D. Engbrecht
Located in: Bremen, IN
Submitted: November 11, 2025
Tell us a little about yourself. I served in higher education over nearly four decades, more than three decades at Bethel College (now University). As a history professor, hijacked into administration, I have longed to tell the story of Bethel but lacked the opportunity to do so due to the time constraints placed on small college administrators. When I got the chance to return to the classroom for my final six years before retirement, I took the opportunity to research and write this book. My colleagues provided a great deal of support and encouragement, something for which I am indebted.
What was your motivation behind this project? My father enrolled at Bethel College in 1951 and I followed in his steps in 1967. I owe a great deal to Bethel University for impacting my life during some critically formation years. Telling the story of the school provided me an opportunity to pay dividends on the investments of my professors at Bethel.
What do you hope folks will gain from this project? I am hoping for enhancing a greater appreciation for Christ centered higher education in the U.S. at a time when all of higher ed is going through some great challenges and faith-based colleges are closing practically on a weekly basis.
How were you personally impacted by working on this project? My appreciation for my alma mater increased significantly as I researched the founders of Bethel University.
Who are your influences, sources of inspiration or favorite authors / artists? My advisor in my doctoral program at the University of Nebraska, Dr. Fred Luebke, had a major influence on both my writing and appreciation for intellectual history. His gracious and meticulous guidance is still sensed four decades later.
