Sharon Caswell - education specialist
MA in Biblical Studies, BA in Psychology. Trained disability advocate through the Minnesota Governor's Council on Developmental Disabilities, proud and blessed mama to the amazing Tyson (pictured).
Favorite thing about Beyond Limits:
The students! I love having the opportunity to be a part of the daily lives of the amazing people that God sends to this program. Being a part of their college experience is one of the greatest joys of my life.
Goals for Beyond Limits Students:
That every student who comes though our program leaves with an increased confidence in their unique strengths and abilities and with the knowledge that they are important members of our community! I want to help them advocate for their dreams and desires and to embrace the joy of life-long learning. My goal is that they say “yes” more than “no” to new experiences and opportunities that come their way.
Favorite memory so far:
BGU students do a global internship when they are juniors. They serve overseas for 13 months in various countries around the world. The Beyond Limits students spend time each week learning about the countries where their friends are serving. We always have an intern come and talk to our class about their experiences in the country, letting us know how to pray specifically for the work going on there. One of my favorite memories was when one of our students led a prayer for the country that left the interns speechless. Seeing God, prayer, faith, and concern through this student’s eyes was such a powerful moment!
Quincy Jensen - Student Connector
Favorite thing about Beyond Limits:
My favorite thing about Beyond limits is them! Last year whenI served in this position I was ready to teach and serve. But God had other plans and used our students to show me a deeper understanding of how His spirit moves and what it means to forgive and live joyfully! They are more than students to me; they are my friends!
Goals for Beyond Limits Students:
My goal for our students, apart from life skills and moving on to eventually living alone,would be that they have a deeper understanding of the God who made them! I want our students to know that the Kingdom of God is for everyone and that the Holy Spirit uses all people for His glory. That His son Jesus came for them and everyone, they need only believe
Favorite memory so far:
My favorite memory? Oh My word! I have so many, but my favorite would be the Night to Shine Event! We were in a limo singing camp songs and had a huge dance in formal attire! We laughed so much and had amazing food. It was a blessing that I was able to go!
Katie lane - interim executive director
M.Ed. in Student Affairs, 8 years of experience working with students with intellectual disabilities on a college campus, experience teaching courses on life skills, social skills and job skills at a college level.
Favorite Thing about Beyond Limits:
It has been a delight to see the students settle into a college environment and grow their capacity. There is an immense amount of growth that happens for students on a college campus, but the beauty that is seen in how our students navigate challenges is a beauty all on its own. It is a joy to be a part of this journey with the students and to serve them and their families.
Goals for Beyond Limits:
1. For students to gain a broader sense of community and to create life-long friendships with other students on campus.
2. For students to find meaningful work so that they can feel fulfillment and purpose.
3. For students to find church communities that will support them and include them as they walk through life.
4. For students to be proud of the gifts they are given and to have confidence in the value they bring to others lives.
Favorite Memory:
On my very first day in the role, an alumni of the program gave me a welcome note. The note was simple, yet so heartfelt and meaningful to me. It was a glimpse into the beautiful community that the Beyond Limits students have created on campus.
Beyond Limits Board of Directors
Paul Bertelson, President
Steve Ziemke, Vice-President, Director Emeritus
Nan Bertelson, Secretary
Alexis Bennett
Barb Ziemke
Jackie McClees
Sally Kamps
Brooks Wilkening
