Monthly Archives: August 2009

Confusion and poor communication from the House of God

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I am confused. 

As I write this post, Bethel College in Newton, KS (my Alma Mater) is in a "Presidential Transition".  While I understand what that means, I do not understand the impetus.  I've included all of the information I have received concerning this matter below.  Since this information is limited, I do not want to speculate.  I do want to express my frustrations and concerns.

I have been frustrated with Bethel's opaque and disorganized communication procedures many times in recent years.  My frustration has increased.  I believe that if Bethel is to survive their current travails and prosper in the future, the Board of Directors needs to immediately adopt a policy of transparency in communication.  The Board is defined (and should act) as representative.  Instead, they function as sequestered oligarchs.  The institutional communications are disorganized, poorly scheduled, and obtuse.  And the pattern of such is long.  From poorly communicated program reviews to budget cuts without clear foundation and forward to this "Transition".

Yesterday, I received two emails from Bethel.  The first was the official press release:

Here is a link to the Official Press Release which does not specify why the change was made and names John Sheriiff (EVP for institutional development) as interim replacement.

The second email I received was a forward of Barry Bartel's message to the Bethel Campus.  I have included that message below:

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From: Bartel, Barry C.
Sent: Monday, August 17, 2009 3:06 PM
To: community-announce; All Students at Bethel College
Subject: Presidential Transition

Bethel College Community:

Yesterday morning I was informed that the Bethel College Board determined in a special session on Saturday that it is in the best interest of Bethel College to change presidential leadership. While I disagree and while this is very painful, Iwill do everything I can to help ensure that the transition is smooth and that it helps to strengthen Bethel College. While the Board develops a search process, the Board has asked and John Sheriff has agreed to serve in an interim role beginning immediately. I fully support John moving into this role and am confident in his leadership in this transition.

 
This is a difficult time for Bethel College. In the face of our challenges, faculty leadership and Cabinet members have been developing plans for the new year. John will provide leadership as the campus community comes together at Fall Retreat on Friday. I believe in all of you, in this community, and in the Bethel Experience. I believe in administrative leadership and the strategic planning that is  occurring, I believe in our students, and I believe in Bethel. This is a critical time to bring energy together in a positive way to move Bethel forward. I know that will happen. Thank you all for your contribution to this special place, this house of God, Beth-el.
 
It has been a special privilege to serve Bethel College as president these past three years. I have given it my all. We have celebrated many successes, and confronted our share of challenges. Where I have fallen short, I apologize. In accomplishment and in disappointment, my spirit is always lifted when I see the dedication and commitment of the campus community, when I hear testimonies of how  Bethel has changed people's lives, and when I witness students exceeding their expectations.

We were settled in Denver when the inquiry came from the search committee over three years ago. We ultimately felt that God had a role in calling us to this position, and it has been an honor and a privilege to serve Bethel College and the Mennonite church in this way. As we enter a stage of uncertainty in our lives, I trust that the Board is seeking and is being guided by God's hand. We appreciate your prayers for our family and for Bethel.

 
Brenda and I, along with John and Elsie, plan to host the campus community for the First Supper on Sunday. I look forward to seeing you there.
 
Barry

Barry C. Bartel, President
bbartel@bethelks.edu
Bethel College
300 E. 27th St
North Newton, KS 67117-0531
(316) 284-5241
http://www.bethelks.edu/

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This second email was apparently supposed to be selectively released, but was leaked and then hastily distributed to the original intended recipients.
 
Once again, I admit to not having much information.  And, I will not speculate on what is the truth behind this matter.  My perception is dis-organization and poor leadership on the part of the Board.  The timing is horrible.  The message is poorly crafted and can only fuel rumor, dismay, gossip, and frustration.