The 16 members of the Hope faculty and staff retiring across 2024-25 have devoted nearly 450 combined years to helping make the college the living and learning community that has shaped young lives for generations.
Representing departments and programs campus wide, their service individually ranges from 14 to 40 years. Some have already left the college, beginning their retirement earlier this school year; others will serve through the end of June.
The retirees, their roles, and their times of service are:
- Shelly Arnold, office manager with the Center for Ministry Studies, 2003 鈥� April 6, 2025;
- Lila Coffey, custodian, 2010 - Aug. 1, 2024;
- Carla Davis, student employment coordinator, 2000 鈥� May 2, 2025;
- Dr. Matt DeJongh, professor of computer science, 2002 - June 30, 2025;
- Dr. Jane Custer 鈥�86 Finn, the Susan M. and Glenn G. Cherup Professor of Education, 2002 - June 30, 2025;
- Rev. Dr. Lynn Winkels 鈥�81 Japinga, professor of religion, 1992 鈥� June 3, 2025;
- Jack Lynn, bus driver, 2002 - Aug. 1, 2024;
- Andrea Mireles 鈥�99, director of 麻豆视频 TRIO Upward Bound, 1984 - Dec. 31, 2024;
- Greg Olgers 鈥�87, director of communication services, 1988 鈥� June 6, 2025;
- Dr. William Polik, the Edward and Elizabeth Hofma Professor of Chemistry, 1988 鈥� June 30, 2025;
- Cindy Sabo, Health Center director, 1999 鈥� Jan. 1, 2025;
- Greg Stafford, head women鈥檚 golf coach, 2009 鈥� Dec. 18, 2024;
- Jill Vredevelt 鈥�87 VanderStoep, assistant professor of mathematics and statistics instruction, 1999 鈥� June 30, 2025;
- Doug VanDyken 鈥�87, director of finance and business services, 1987 - Jan. 15, 2025.
The college held a reception on Tuesday, April 15, in the great room of the Jim and Martie Bultman Student Center to honor this year鈥檚 retirees. In addition to the 14 listed here, there are two who have opted not to be recognized.