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News

Letter to Students - Fall 2020

Bethel logo stacked for news

by Bethel University

Bethel logo stacked for news

From Dr. Walter Butler
President, Bethel University

We do community best when we can be together. To put it simply, you—our students—bring our campus to life.

We have all heard the phrase “the new normal,” but this semester, we’re striving to give you a lot of the normal we’ve all been longing for—but with the understanding that there will be some changes. Campus life will undoubtedly look a little different.

You can be confident that the Fall 2020 semester will embody the characteristics and values you expect from Bethel. You’ll make new friends, grow, learn, and experience a community dedicated to your success. We hope to provide safe opportunities to enjoy social activities, cheer on our athletes, experience spiritual formation, and so much more.

Knowing that it is vital to minimize travel to and from campus once the semester begins, we will start the Fall 2020 semester early for our McKenzie, Tenn. campus.

Important Dates*

  • July 31 - Football, Cheer, Cross Country move-in
  • August 7 - Volleyball, Men's & Women's Soccer move-in
  • August 7 - Returning students move-in
  • August 8 - Freshmen move-in
  • August 8 - Movie on the lawn
  • August 10 - Classes begin
  • September 7 - Labor Day
  • October 8 -11 - Fall break
  • November 13 - Classes end
  • November 16 - 20 - Final exams
  • November 21 - Graduation

*These dates are subject to change at any time.

Coaches will be in contact with athletes regarding specific details on returning to campus. Freshmen orientation will look a little differently this year with videos to provide new student information. Movie on the lawn will be an opportunity for freshmen to mingle, socially distanced, with upperclassmen. International students, please contact Jane Campbell at campbellj@bethelu.edu for more details about fall classes.

If you are planning to live on-campus, move-in will be on a staggered schedule. Residence Life will soon provide updated information regarding your room assignment and specific day and time to move in. Juniors and seniors can request to live off-campus by filling out a request form by emailing housing@bethelu.edu.

As we work to finalize new protocols and safety measures know that our goal is to ensure that our campus is a safe and healthy place to live, work, and study. Make sure to check your Bethel email frequently.

We are so excited to welcome you this fall and have been working diligently to prepare for your return.