Bluffton University

Consistency and stability

05/12/2025

Employment milestones reached by (front row) Chad Shutler, Marathana Prothrow, Jessica Pratt, Mark Bourassa, John Burkhart. (back row) Bill Hanefeld, Steve Yarnell, Cindy Bandish, Phill Talavinia, Kate Spike and Luke Myers.

210 years of service celebrated

Faculty and staff members were recognized for their years of service and dedication to the students and community of Bluffton University on Tuesday, May 6. With years of service ranging from 5 all the way to 40, 11 total faculty and staff members were recognized. 

“Our mission, as a historic peace church, is to ‘prepare students of all backgrounds for life as well as vocation, for responsible citizenship, for service to all peoples and, ultimately, for the purposes of God’s universal kingdom,’” stated Interim President Alex Sider. “This is a noble calling, and our honorees have provided the stability and support for days, months and years that creates the kinds of transformation in our students’ lives.”

Honorees were as follows:
Jessica Pratt – 5 years of service
John Burkhart – 10 years of service
Dr. Luke Myers – 10 years of service
Marathana Prothro – 10 years of service
Kate Spike – 15 years of service
Bill Hanefeld – 20 years of service
Chad Shutler – 20 years of service
Steve Yarnell – 20 years of service
Dr. Cindy Bandish –  25 years of service
Dr. Mark Bourassa –  35 years of service
Phill Tallavinia –  40 years of service 

Lunch was provided for all faculty and staff members, followed by a ceremony of recognition.

Each honoree received a token of appreciation from the university, and those who celebrated 25 years and above were given opportunity to reflect. All spoke about the relationships, community and spirit of Bluffton that continues to drive their work and commitment to the university.