BVU Professor Inducted into Order of Cumberland and Tollefson

The Order of Cumberland and Tollefson was established in 1994 and is reserved for faculty members who have given exceptional service to the University.

Buena Vista University Professor Ben Donath has been inducted into the Order of Cumberland and Tollefson.

Donath, who is the dean of BVU’s School of Science and associate professor of mathematics, started his career at BVU in 1977. 

The Order of Cumberland and Tollefson was established in 1994 and is named for Dr. William H. Cumberland, professor emeritus of history, who was a member of the BVU faculty from 1958-1991, and Dr. Robert Tollefson, professor emeritus of religion and philosophy, whose tenure spanned three decades and three BVU presidents. The honor is reserved for faculty members who have given exceptional service to the University. 

“In addition to his leadership roles at BVU, Ben has done a lot behind the scenes in service to the institution, our students, and the faculty that have made a big difference in people’s lives,” said Tim McDaniel, assistant professor of mathematics & quantitative business at BVU. “He has been one of my professional role models, and I can never repay him.” 

Dr. Gail Hartsock, assistant professor of mathematics and former BVU math student, added, “Ben is simply one of the finest educators I have known. I strive to live up to his example. It is my honor and privilege to be his colleague.” 

A plaque is given to each inductee in recognition of this honor. Each inductee’s name is also added to the Order of Cumberland and Tollefson plaque located in the Harold Walter Siebens Forum on the BVU campus.

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