Bethel College President Jon C. Gering will leave his position at the end of June. He has served as president since January 2018. Gering and the Board of Directors announced his resignation March 23 in joint statements.

“Eight years is an impressive term of service for a college president,” said board chair Wynn Goering. “Jon has led Bethel through some truly challenging circumstances and is leaving the college stronger than he found it. We could not have asked for more in a president.”

Notable achievements during Gering’s tenure included guiding Bethel through the pandemic; restoring full accreditation status; launching the Employment Experiences Program; building a new football locker room, softball clubhouse and campus Wellness Center; doubling the endowment to about $47 million; and bringing in the three largest freshman classes in the past 30 years.

“There is nothing wrong with me, nor is there a crisis, scandal or circumstance forcing my decision,” Gering said. “I believe it would benefit both me and our community to have a new leader with different skills, perspectives and sensibilities.”

Gering arrived at Bethel in 1992 as a student-athlete. He developed a passion for teaching and academic inquiry that ultimately shaped his career in higher education. He went on to serve as a faculty member and academic leader at other institutions before returning to Bethel to begin his presidency in 2018.

Throughout his presidency, Gering emphasized student-centered learning, institutional growth and adaptability in a rapidly changing higher education landscape. His leadership was guided by a strong sense of vocation — a theme he noted has long been central to the Bethel experience.

“At Bethel, we teach our students and each other about vocation — the calling for the work one does in life,” he said. “My decision to end my time as president is a vocational decision.”

Board vice chair Lori Schmidt-Harrison said the board tried to keep Gering at Bethel with a contract extension offered in 2025. Last April he accepted an extension through June 2030.

“But we always knew this would not be the last chapter in his career,” Schmidt-Harrison said. “We’re certain he’ll make an impact in whatever role he chooses next.” She added that the board has been working closely with Gering to ensure a seamless leadership transition.

A national search will be undertaken during the 2026-27 academic year.