Bethany Christian Schools alumnus Jordan Kauffman ‘07 was named to the 2025 Michiana Forty under 40 list, an honor recognizing young professionals who demonstrate leadership, career excellence, and community commitment.
As a founder and creative director of Lightbox, a full service design studio in Goshen that focuses on visual identity, branding, and visual storytelling for nonprofits, Jordan’s career reflects the values deeply rooted in his Bethany education: servant leadership, creativity, and using one’s gifts to make a difference.
"It’s really hard to imagine being who I am today without going to Bethany Christian Schools," Jordan shared. "My experiences at Bethany continue to be foundational to who I've become—academically, professionally, and personally."
During his years at Bethany, Jordan’s creativity found room to grow. Through multiple art classes, serving as photo editor for the Witmarsum, and pursuing an independent study in visual communication design, he discovered both passion and confidence. That foundation led him to study graphic design at Goshen College and later earn his MFA in Graphic Design from Kent State.
But it wasn’t just classroom experiences that shaped him.
"Bethany emphasized being known, loved, and prepared—and I experienced that every day," he said. "Teachers and coaches like Matt Miller and Brent Reinhardt saw me for who I was, believed in me, and challenged me to grow—not just as a student or athlete, but as a person."
Jordan’s story is a reflection of Bethany’s broader mission: to prepare students to participate in God’s work in the world by nurturing their unique gifts and encouraging lives of purpose and service.
"I hope that by pursuing my passion in a way that seeks to tell important stories and support others, I'm reflecting some of the best of what Bethany instilled in me. It feels like I’m carrying a piece of that unique Bethany community and its values out into the world with me."
Jordan’s recognition as a Forty under 40 honoree is more than a personal achievement—it’s a testament to the impact of a Bethany education and the lifelong ripple effects of being known, loved, and prepared.