Whitewater Times

Dr. William Licht has served Maranatha for 31 years in various roles, including history and education professor, Chair of Humanities, Dean of the School of Education, and most recently as Vice President for Academic Affairs.

In June 2024, Dr. Licht retired from full-time teaching and administration. Although his leadership will be missed at the administrative level, students will still benefit from his insights and expertise as he continues to teach part-time on campus and online.

Teaching history is Dr. Licht’s passion, and he refers to his time in the classroom as “my most favorite time of the week.” Students in Dr. Licht’s classes are challenged to view historical events from a Biblical perspective and to think critically about the facts. They quickly discover that he cares deeply about each one in his class. His heart for education and mentorship is rooted in his belief that “the Lord has called me to invest myself in the lives of others and in doing so, to make a difference for generations to come – Psalm 78.”

Dr. Licht’s mentorship extends beyond the classroom: colleagues know him as a consummate professional and express being edified by his wisdom and thoughtfulness: “He worked very hard to help us become better teachers. This was supplemented by classroom observations, in-house workshops, readings, and presentations to help us grow as classroom teachers—further supporting the heartbeat of a Maranatha education: its classroom teaching.”

Former student and current colleague Katie Schmoeckel wrote, “Dr. Licht is a master teacher. I was blessed to have him as my social studies teacher and mentor. His depth of knowledge is enhanced by his humility, compassion, and love for the Lord. It has been a privilege to learn from him and to teach alongside him at Maranatha. He continues to inspire me to grow as a person, a teacher, and a disciple of Christ.”

History professor Dr. Mike Zwolanek expressed similar sentiments: “While I’m glad that Will is able to retire, I will miss his presence on campus where he has served as a counselor, resource, and friend. During my first year at the college without waiting for me to ask he graciously gave me copies of all his course materials along with pointers about how he taught the class.” He added that even with growing leadership responsibilities over the years Dr.Licht continued helping him."I am thankful he will remain as a colleague,and hope for added historical chats now that his plate will be less full."

“I have been blessed beyond measure to serve so closely with Dr.Licht,” states CEO Dr.Matt Davis.“Together we witnessed the Lord preserve protect,and advance the ministry of Maranatha.I have learned so much from observing his testimony work ethic,and benefitted greatly from his wise counsel friendship.Behind scenes he faced deep waters multi-year battle cancer poise grace courage."Through good days bad determination continue serve steadfastly through it all serves proof-positive God’s goodness grace empower each one us do what He calls us do Only eternity reveal magnitude contributions advancing Kingdom God."

Thank you Dr.Licht making difference at Maranatha!

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