As of Oct. 16, 2025, Bethel College is still in the process of looking for new Student Counselors and a Campus Pastor. However, Bethel offered Mental Health First Aid certification training to staff, faculty, and Bethel CAs in order to be prepared in the event of a mental health emergency.
The training was led by Janet Fulmer, the Director of Human Resources & Compliance / Title IX Coordinator. For the first time, Bethel opened the program to the CAs on campus. In total, 11 participants completed the training to receive their Mental Health First Aid Certification.
Fulmer described her experience with the training, saying that it was “a great refresher.” She noted that she first took the course last year and learned a lot from it. With some campus resources currently limited, many staff and faculty are now taking on roles assisting students in ways they might not have before. As she explained, “This is why the training is so very important. To be able to talk about how to approach these very hard and often delicate conversations makes it just a little easier if you find yourself in the middle of one.”
She also highlighted that the skills learned in the course extend beyond campus work. “This knowledge can help us be better community members at large and learn how to show care and compassion for those around us who may be experiencing any type of mental health issue,” Fulmer said. She expressed gratitude for the opportunity to expand knowledge and improve support for students on the Bethel campus and beyond.
One of the participants, Sheridan Weinbrenner, Bethel’s Career Counselor and Student Success Coach, shared that the training was very meaningful to her. “Attending the Mental Health First Aid course was super meaningful to me,” she said. He added that, since there isn’t a campus counselor currently, “it’s really important for all of us to do what we can to make sure campus is a safe space for everyone — especially students.”
Weinbrenner explained that the training helps her feel prepared to assist students who may come into her office needing support. The course teaches strategies to recognize early warning signs of mental health challenges, engage in compassionate conversations, and connect students with appropriate professional resources. “I’m thankful to feel prepared if a student comes into my office and needs help,” he said.
Despite Bethel still actively searching for new Student Counselors and a Campus Pastor, offering this certification training demonstrates the college’s commitment to supporting students’ mental health and equipping staff and CAs with practical tools to respond to crises effectively.
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