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HIGHER ARTS
A Common Thread—How a bunch of ‘Knit Wits’ are changing the world, one thread at a time.
 Back in 1998, Noni Strand, campus pastor of Bethany College in Lindsborg, Kansas, and knitting expert Joyce Englund started a knitting group. They figured it would be a fun way for students to get involved in service and learn
a new craft.
Nine years later, students, faculty, staff and community members—ranging in age from 7 to 90—still crowd into Strand’s office every Friday at 3 p.m. to knit or crochet any number of projects. Most start by knitting breathable, washable bandages, which are taken by Global Health Ministries and used to dress the wounds of those in underprivileged countries who are ravaged by skin disease. Others make chemo caps that end up in nearby Salina Regional Health Center’s cancer center, knit a prayer shawl for an ailing relative or just make a scarf for a friend.
“Students are always encouraged that their first project, either a bandage or a sweater, is something that is going to be given to someone else,” says Strand.
The group, which calls itself the Knit Wits, has knit and crocheted more than 300 bandages since 2005, along with many prayer shawls, blankets and sweaters for those in need.
“There’s nothing quite as wonderful as giving a gift you’ve made,” says Strand. “I think it’s helped students to think beyond themselves.”
—Sarah Asp
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