Lincoln University Athletics

Dr. Leonard L. Bethel, who retired after 42 years on the faculty at Rutgers, earned four letters in football and track & field, and three from wrestling. During his senior year, Bethel was the top tackler in the CIAA and was named co-captain for the Howard-Lincoln football game in 1960. He was the head shot putter, javelin and discus thrower while on the track team from 1958-1961. On the wrestling mat, Bethel was a heavyweight semifinalist from 1960-1961. Upon graduating from Lincoln University in 1961, Dr. Bethel furthered his education by earning degrees from Johnson C. Smith University, New Brunswick Theological Seminary, and Rutgers University in New Brunswick. He retired from Rutgers University on June 30, 2011 and was awarded Professor Emeritus by the university president and board of governors. Among some of the numerous honors he received during his distinguished career include the Mayor’s Proclamation in Plainfield, N.J., Distinguished Service Award from Rutgers University Graduate School of Education Alumni Association, and the Founder’s Day/Alumni Award from Lincoln University. Some of his volunteer activities include coaching little league baseball, establishing a head start program at the Bethel Presbyterian Church in Plainfield, N.J. and introducing a Reading for Literacy program to Plainfield, N.J. for junior high school students.