2025-26 Bluffton University News

Coen North '26, the Spanish and communication and media double major, will describe how the period of isolation he experienced with studying abroad strengthened his appreciation for community.

First Tuesday Forum

The Fall 2025 First Tuesday in the Library Forum series will kick off with Coen North '26, discussing "The Power of Positive Environment: My Study Abroad Experience in Mexico."

Bowsher opened with words of gratitude before inviting the audience into a moment of pause and breathe. “This is our evidence of being alive,” she said, before extending a message of congratulations, “You made it.”

"You Made It"

Opening Convocation Forum, Aug. 19, welcomed first year students with a reflection on the accomplishments they've already made - preparing for college and taking their first steps at Bluffton.

Colloquium

Dr. Martina Cucchiara, professor of history at Bluffton University, will present the Colloquium, "Faith and Feelings: The Emotional Education of Maidservants in 18th Century Germany."

Drawing on personal and professional experiences, panelists will introduce the 2025-26 civic engagement theme, which focuses on how to serve and understand the diverse communities around us.

A panel of Bluffton University faculty, staff, alumni and current students will present "Who is My Neighbor? Knowing, Loving, and Serving Our Neighbors" during Bluffton's Civic Engagement Theme Introduction Forum

The $500,000 grant will support students with financial need who show strong academic promise, with a focus on those pursuing STEM or related fields.

Knowlton Scholarship Grant

Bluffton University is honored to be the recipient of a $500,000 grant payable over the next five years. The grant is provided by The Austin E. Knowlton Foundation.

Dr. Alex Sider will address new and returning students during the state of the university address, focused on the discussion of Bluffton strategic priorities for the 2025-26 school year

State of the University Forum

Dr. Alex Sider, president of Bluffton University, will present "Pillars of Purpose: Stability, Hope, Trust, Compassion" during Bluffton's State of the University Forum at 11 a.m. on Aug. 26 in Yoder Recital Hall.

“I grew up in education,” said Hocanson. “And here at Bluffton, I get to train the next generation of teachers and help them be the best they can be for our future leaders. It’s incredibly rewarding.”

Supporting life-long learning

Dr. Cherie Hocanson, assistant professor of education and director of graduate programs for education, is an encourager of lifelong learning and notes the importance of community in the program.

Opening Convocation Forum

Megan Bowsher, MSW, LISW, clinical psychotherapist at Creative Hope Counseling in Bluffton, Ohio, will present the fall 2025 Opening Convocation Forum.

Dr. J. Alexander Sider will be inaugurated as Bluffton's 11th president.

Inauguration

Bluffton University makes a historic announcement, naming Dr. J. Alexander the 11th president of the institution effective Aug. 1, 2025.

The Spring 2025 Dean's List recognizes students with a GPA of 3.6+ in at least half-time graded courses, with distinction for those achieving 3.75+.

Spring '25 Dean's List

Bluffton University recognized 217 for their academic excellence during the spring 2025 semester.

Church minutes combined with hymns and popular songs of the decades brought to life the Mennonite women's service, faith and evolving theology.

Sharing through song

Anabaptism at 500 spring events at Bluffton concluded with a heartfelt and humorous performance of "One Hundred Years of Mennonite Women through Story and Song."

J. Denny Beaver celebrated by welcoming new students to Summer Orientation and Registration.

15 years, 15 questions

Having arrived on campus June 23, 2010, J. Denny Beaver is celebrating his 15th birthday! What's it like to be J. Denny? Let him tell you in his own words.

Jayme Jarrett received the James W. White Award from the Ohio Association of Student Financial Aid Administrator.

Highest honor awarded

Jayme Jarrett, director of financial aid, was honored for her problem solving, patience and understanding when working with students and their parents.

Celebration highlights

Events affirming Bluffton's commitment to peace traditions rooted in its Mennonite heritage were held last spring, in conjunction with the 500th anniversary of the Anabaptist movement.

Bluffton has been named a College of Distinction since the 2019-20 academic year. Bluffton’s business and education departments are also consistently recognized as leading programs of distinction.

Meaningful impact

Colleges of Distinction recognizes Bluffton for its commitment to experiential education, including collaborative projects, student research and global learning.