Neil Friesland, EdD, Class of 1992, professor of education, passed away yesterday evening, February 29, 2024, after a brief illness. Neil was so much a part of the MNU family that his legacy is woven into the fabric of the campus.
Neil came to MNU as a freshman in 1987 when he and three friends from Channelview, Texas, were recruited to play football. Gregarious and full of humor, Neil was known and loved as a biology education student. In a previous university article, Neil said, “I loved the community, the small class sizes, the ability to know many people, and the Christian atmosphere. This community allowed me to grow in my walk with Christ.”
Upon graduation, Neil worked as a biomedical technician and then taught public high school for three years. In 1998, MNU invited Neil to return as a resident educator. Neil and his wife Amy served in Snowbarger residence hall for several years while he continued his education.
Neil completed his Master of Education from MNU in 1999 and his EdD in special education from the University of Kansas in 2010. During this time, his career moved into teaching and advising for the adult degree completion program at MNU.
Upon completing his doctorate, Neil became the special education authority in MNU’s School of Education, serving there until his passing. His work extended beyond the MNU campus into the local community of special education students and their parents. He was instrumental in bringing students with special needs onto the MNU campus to interact with others their age. In a very real sense, Neil helped give them a college experience.
President David Spittal shared that “Dr. Friesland was loved and deeply respected by his colleagues, especially our students. His caring spirit and genuine interest in each student made him an icon and a key figure on campus during his years of service. He will be greatly missed.”
Dr. Jon North, vice president for university advancement, was a classmate and friend of Neil’s for over 36 years.
“Neil is one of those people who has been friends with so many,” North says. “Each one of them would characterize Neil as an anchor in their life. It is such a blessing to have had him in our lives.”
North continued saying that much of Neil’s work was behind the scenes with students and their families, helping them navigate their educational and personal journeys.
Neil is survived by his wife, Amy, Class of 1993, and three adult children, Jeremiah, James and Jenae, and a host of family and friends.
The MNU Campus is holding a prayer service today at 12:15 p.m., for all who want to remember and honor Neil. Counseling services are available for MNU students through the student counseling offi
