Samuel Haynes, VP for Student Life and Dean of Students, resigns

The administrator is set to pursue a new job opportunity in Colorado.

Samuel Haynes — photo via Bethel College

On Wednesday, Bethel College president Jon Gering announced in an email the resignation of Vice President for Student Life and Dean of Students, Samuel Haynes.

While at Bethel, Haynes has served the community by creating and opening the Thresher Food Pantry located in Haury Hall, assisting in the initiation of Emergency Stations on campus, designing and implementing campus repopulation during the COVID-19 pandemic, updating Bethel’s Companion Animal (ESA) policies and procedures, and more. 

“Sam's decision to pursue this new role emerged while preparing for the final phase of his career in student life,” Gering said.

Haynes has been working in Student Life roles for 29 years. During that time, Haynes has served at Amherst College, Drew University, Scripps College, and Bethel College. 

“Making the decision to move on from Bethel College to another career opportunity/experience was among the toughest of my career so far, because I feel the love from students daily and the feelings are mutual and will never be forgotten,” Haynes said.

Haynes’ resignation will be effective Sep. 23, 2022 — where he’ll begin his new post as Associate VP for Student Affairs at Arapahoe Community College in Littleton, Colo. on Oct. 1. 

“Sam explained to me that transitioning to Arapahoe will allow him to add a community college experience to his professional life while also being closer to family,” Gering said.

Haynes is also responsible for the creation of the ThresherKIND award and received the 2021 Schrag Helping Hand Award for his dedication to nurturing the student body and encouraging his fellow faculty. 

“...The dedication and spirit among the faculty and staff at Bethel, which sets the tone for the community of caring, is the core of being a Thresher,” Haynes said. “I have enjoyed my time at Bethel and I will be a Thresher forever.”

Haynes will remain on campus for the next three weeks before his departure.