Music Professor Ken Rodgers lead a song at the Anabaptism at 500 Hymn Fest.

The art studio and the Regier-Friesen Art Gallery in Laban Peachey Center became fully functional at the start of the fall 2024 semester. All classes are now taught in this space, allowing the art program to grow and move forward. The Roots and Branches art exhibit curated by Joshua Cross, art professor, celebrated the art of woodworking. Other exhibits included visiting artist Katie Petersen from Sterling College, a Martyrs Mirror exhibit, local comic book artist Brad Voth, graphic designer Chad Lindemann and the Annual Juried Student Art Exhibit. The community art studio, which is open to area residents, also began right after spring break to explore art in various forms — painting, pottery, collage, drawing and printmaking.

Hesston College Theatre made an impressive debut at the Kennedy Center American College Theater Festival (KCACTF) Region V in January. A scene from “Antigone,” directed by Rachel Jantzi, was selected for the prestigious Invited Scenes showcase and performed to a packed house. Additionally, Josh Fleming ’23 ’25, a senior from Raymore, Mo., and Caroline Miller ’25, a sophomore from Arlington, Kan., were selected as Irene Ryan Nominees. Miller advanced to the semifinals of this highly competitive competition — an achievement earned by only 63 out of roughly 300 actors. This recognition marks a milestone of firsts for Hesston College Theatre, placing students among the best in the region.

The music department hosted Anabaptism at Five Hundred: Hymn Festival in January. The event featured a historical narrative by Ken Rodgers ’85, music professor, tracing the evolution of hymns and texts central to Anabaptist worship. This community-wide event included a 60-voice choir made up of singers from surrounding churches, combined with Bel Canto Singers, organ and a brass quartet. Music was led by Dr. Russell Adrian, director of choral activities, and accompanied by Karen Unruh, performing arts staff member.