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Dr. Glenn Bernet, Provost & V.P. for Academic Affairs, retires after 51 years of service

Published on Jun 28, 2014 by Paul K. Logsdon

The Evangel family was saddened to learn of the passing of Lois Bernet, Glenn Bernet’s wife of 56 years, on Friday, June 27, 2014. Her obituary and memorial information has been posted at the bottom of this release.


 

 

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. — Dr. Glenn Bernet has announced his retirement from Evangel University after 51 years of service, effective July 2. He is the longest-serving employee in Evangel’s history.

Dr. Bernet has been Evangel’s chief academic officer since 1985, and he retires with the title provost and vice president for academic affairs.

The Evangel faculty and staff honored him with a retirement dinner on June 5.

“Evangel has been blessed to have the leadership and dedication of an exemplary academician in Dr. Glenn Bernet,” said Dr. Carol Taylor, Evangel president. “His vision and high academic standards have been a guiding force for this university since our very early days.”

Taylor became president-elect/CEO of Evangel last summer and asked Bernet to delay his retirement for a year.

“I count it an honor to have worked with him, and I am grateful that he was willing to stay on throughout this academic year,” said Taylor. “We pray God’s richest blessings for him in his retirement.”

On July 21, the University will welcome Dr. Tilahun Adera as the new provost/vice president for academic affairs.

A history of service

Bernet began his service to Evangel in 1963 teaching mathematics in the science and technology department. He attained full professor status in 1981 and assumed the role of academic dean in 1985.

During his time at Evangel, Bernet has seen enrollment increase nearly four-fold, the college has earned university status, and this year, successful consolidation took place of three local Assemblies of God institutions — Evangel, Assemblies of God Theological Seminary and Central Bible College. The university now offers degrees from the bachelor’s to the doctoral level, leveraging the benefits of an embedded seminary.

Bernet is a highly respected member of the Mathematical Association of America. He has been a member of Kappa Mu Epsilon, the National Honor Society in Mathematics, since he was a student and has continued involvement with the society, serving as the co-chairperson of one of its national conventions.

Additionally, he has maintained consistent involvement with the National Conference of Academic Deans, serving as chairman in 1994. Bernet also is a member of the American Association for Higher Education.

In addition to his professional endeavors, Bernet stays active in church and community activities. He has served as president of the Southeast Lions Club, vice chairman of the deacon board at Central Assembly of God, delegate to the Community Planning Council of Greene County and a member of the Springfield Rotary.

Bernet was married to his childhood sweetheart, Lois (Evans) Bernet, for 56 years before she passed away on Friday, June 27, less than a week before he retired. They have three grown children, all of whom attended Evangel: Rob Bernet (’86), Julie Leoni and Susan Tolbert (’93). Susan’s husband Todd (’94) also is an Evangel graduate.

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LOIS BERNET OBITUARY

Lois Ann Bernet was born July 29, 1939, and died peacefully on Friday, June 27, 2014, surrounded by family, after courageously battling numerous cancers for many years. A retired music secretary at Evangel College (University) and adored homemaker, Lois delighted in spending time with her family and friends, playing games, and traveling.

She was active with the Evangel University Ladies’ Auxiliary and at Central Assembly of God. Everyone who met Lois was touched by her generous spirit, loving soul and graceful smile. She epitomized unconditional love, acceptance, and the bravery with which she battled cancer.

She is survived by her husband of 56 years, Glenn Bernet, the love of her life and soul mate whom she met in first grade; their three children, Rob Bernet and wife Lisa of Fair Grove, Susan Tolbert and husband Todd of Springfield, Julie Bernet Leoni of Kansas City; eight cherished grandchildren; brother, Larry Evans; sister, Nancy Evans; and sisters-in-law, Connie Bernet and Diana Fortner; along with many other relatives and lifelong friends, and Gracie, her beloved rescue dog.

Visitation will be held at Central Assembly of God, 1301 N Boonville Ave, Monday, June 30, from 6 to 8 p.m. The funeral will be Tuesday, July 1 at 10 a.m. at Central Assembly of God, with graveside service following.

CARDS & LETTERS — Please send to Dr. Glenn Bernet, c/o Evangel University, 1111 N. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, Mo. 65802

MEMORIAL DONATIONS — Please send to Evangel University at the above address, OR go online at http://www.evangel.edu/, and in the top-right corner, click on “Give Online”