Anna Kempfert, Class of 2010, earned her degree in English with Secondary Education Licensure and Communication Arts Certification at Bethany Lutheran College. She later joined AmeriCorps VISTA as a Volunteer Coordinator at the University of Maine. In this role, Anna planned service projects and after-school programs, wrote grants, recruited and trained volunteers, presented leadership workshops, and built partnerships to address emotional and financial poverty in local communities.
What motivates Anna is the chance to empower others: “My job allows me to help others and see others help each other every day. The amount of altruism … quite inspiring, and it continues to inspire my desire to serve others.” She also shares her perspective on service: “I hope to make a difference by continuing to faithfully serve others with God’s help and direction. … I am willing to make a difference wherever God puts me, whether that means making a difference at a macro or micro level.”
Looking ahead, Anna envisions serving with faith-driven vision, whether at a community grassroots level or within larger systems. Her path reflects adaptability and intentionality in making a lasting impact.
Reflecting on Bethany Lutheran College, Anna credits her academic preparation and mentorship with equipping her for this work. She emphasizes how writing, critical thinking, and education skills developed at the college prepared her well for ministry and service roles. Her theater minor and secondary education certification helped—alongside her English training—to foster strong communication, leadership, and creativity.
In her own words: “Take chances. Don’t fear failure, but learn from it. Don’t quit, but persevere… Volunteer in the community and travel. Supplement coursework with experiences outside of a book or classroom.” Anna’s journey—from English major to community service leadership—illustrates how a Bethany education grounds graduates in both intellectual excellence and a heart for service, equipped to serve effectively in diverse contexts.