Skip to main content

News & Events

ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT: Bethany Wentz '05

Share on:

Posted on Monday, January 5, 2026

When Bethany (Grubbs) Wentz graduated from Westminster in 2005, she carried with her a sense of calling to serve college students. Though her journey beyond Mother Fair unfolded in unexpected ways, the years that followed were rich with purpose, shaped by work in social services, the experience of raising six children, and faithful service in Honduras, where she helped establish a nonprofit dedicated to providing humanitarian programs for families and children. Nearly two decades later, those experiences and guided by faith, have brought Wentz back to Westminster. As assistant director of the TRIO Scholars Program, she now walks alongside students, offering support, encouragement, and opportunity as they navigate college life and prepare for the paths ahead.

Tell us about your career path since graduating from Westminster.

After graduating from Westminster in 2005 with a degree in Christian education, I obtained a master's in higher education from Geneva College. My goal was to work with college students, but my career path took me toward social services and counseling – working at The Lighthouse Foundation, MHY Family Services, and Glade Run Lutheran Services in the Greater Pittsburgh area.

What kind of activities did you participate in as a student?

At Westminster, I participated in the tennis program and was the captain of the women's team during my junior and senior years. I was also involved in chapel staff, the handbell choir, and residence life on campus. 

How did Westminster help shape your life and/or career?

Westminster gave me such a well-rounded approach and perspective on life. It also awakened my spirit for adventure and learning.

What drew you to this assistant director role with TRIO?

My initial career goal after college was to work with college students. While my path led elsewhere at the time, I couldn't pass up an opportunity to fulfill that mission by working with college students at my alma mater. As the assistant director for TRIO, I look forward to supporting students and helping them achieve their goals. While the TRIO program was not yet incorporated when I was a WC student, I am excited to share more about the work of TRIO with my Westminster classmates and fellow alumni!

What keeps you busy in your spare time?

I have six children that are all very active in sports and activities. My husband and I founded a nonprofit, Dream Big Honduras, in 2010, and the organization helps more than 60 Honduran families daily through educational support, faith development, and basic needs support. We lead mission trips to Honduras several times a year to aid the Honduran leaders and check on the programs. 

Pictures:
ABOVE: Bethany (center) with students from Honduras.

LEFT: Brad and Bethany Wentz and their six children at son, Levi's, final University of Kansas football game.

Connect with Bethany on LinkedIn.