Ashley Klein speaks at Bethel with Beyond BC
When the opportunity presents itself, a graduate returns to campus to share their insights on life after college. The Beyond BC Series was started in 2023 to provide a chance for alumni to return to Bethel, and has been a staple of the college ever since. With alumni from all over the country returning to where they got their start, students and staff alike can hear their incredible journeys. The series was created by former student Logan DeMond to highlight Bethel alumni. These discussions often consist of the selected speaker describing their experience and time while in North Newton. The inaugural speaker, Dr. Lauren Freisen, described BC as “more than an institution, but a family.” This statement rings true, in part thanks to the success of the Beyond BC speaking series.
The most recent installment of the series featured Ashley Klein. Klein is a 2013 Bethel graduate with majors in natural sciences and psychology. She is now the proud owner of her own pet care company, Blue Skies Pet Care. Her company offers a range of expert pet care services including pet sitting, dog walking, and even training in Newton and surrounding areas in central Kansas.
The introduction of the Beyond BC speaker series has proven to be a success for the Bethel College community. Being able to hear these stories from Bethel alumni can give students an incredible insight on how they too can grow and do great things beyond Bethel College. Speaker series and programs such as Beyond BC show how impactful a small community can be for college students. While a student could have a great experience at a larger university, a smaller community can prove to have a larger effect on their lives. The close, tight-knit community of North Newton has had its fair share of effects on former and current Bethel students alike. Bethel aims to help their graduates do great things after leaving the school.