LINDSBORG, Kan.—Noni Strand is this year’s recipient of the Greg and Beth Pierce Award. The announcement was made at the President’s Reception on December 1.

The award, formerly known as the Service to Students Award, honors a Bethany employee who has made exceptional contributions to the lives of students over the years. Established by two Bethany employees in 2001, the honor was founded to identify and reward outstanding efforts in serving students.

Strand is currently in her 20th year as campus pastor at Bethany College. As a spiritual leader on campus, she organizes peer ministry, various campus ministry groups and chapel services. She has also been active in the formation of the Green Team leading sustainability efforts and chairs the Pearson Professor of Swedish Studies committee. Strand also teaches a section of Bethany Seminar for first-year students. President Ed Leonard said of Strand, “As our campus spiritual mentor, she has guided many students in many ways. Her calm and kindness demonstrate her incalculable service to our students.”

The award was created by donors Greg and Beth Pierce, former Lindsborg residents and employees of the college, to recognize a Bethany employee who has made a positive impact on students’ lives. Greg Piece was associate professor of criminal justice. Beth Pierce was advancement administrative assistant.

Bethany College, established by Swedish Lutheran immigrants in 1881, is a college of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. The mission of Bethany College is to educate, develop and challenge individuals to reach for truth and excellence as they lead lives of faith, learning and service. Bethany College is on the Web at www.bethanylb.edu.