President Stoltzfus featured on ‘Small College America’ podcast

President Rebecca Stoltzfus was recently featured on Small College America, a podcast dedicated to exploring the role and value of small colleges in higher education. Hosted by Kent Barnes of Augustana College and higher education consultant Dean Hoke, the episode spotlighted Goshen College’s distinctive mission, growing diversity and commitment to integrating academic excellence with real-world service.

In the conversation, President Stoltzfus discussed Goshen’s evolution into a Hispanic Serving Institution — a milestone achieved in 2023 — and how the college’s identity has grown alongside the demographic shifts of the broader Michiana region. She also highlighted the college’s signature Study-Service Term program, its deep partnerships with community organizations and local industry, and its longstanding mission to develop graduates who serve the common good.

“We are a place where students matter, and I think that’s what young people are looking for,” Stoltzfus said. “They’re looking to be seen, to be heard, to feel that they matter in the world, that they have a community that is going to stand behind them and walk with them into their future.”

Stoltzfus addressed the value of a liberal arts education in one of the nation’s most manufacturing-intensive regions, explaining how there is not a contrast between workforce preparation and liberal arts — instead, they support each other.

Stoltzfus also participated in a leadership roundtable this past week. The event was held by Craig Heatherly, host of the podcast The Path Less Traveled, which featured Stoltzfus a few months ago. Stoltzfus joined Laurie Nafziger, CEO of Oaklawn, and Todd Yeoman, president of American Technology Components, to discuss how to navigate difficult conversations.