The Central College family embodies a large and marvelous tradition — one that John Robert Bylsma, a 1959 Central graduate, deeply understood. Upon his passing in 2024, his estate established the John R. Bylsma Scholarship, an endowed fund supporting students who demonstrate high academic achievement.
Bylsma followed a proud Central legacy. His mother, Jennie Roelofs Bylsma, graduated in 1929. Her sisters Dorothy Roelofs Poppen, a 1930 graduate, and Henrietta Roelofs Gosselink, a 1925 graduate, also attended Central. John’s sister, Betty Bylsma De Boer, graduated in 1962.
“He loved to learn and read his entire life,” says his daughter, Amy Engebretson. “He always had book groups and was discussing issues with friends.”
As a lifelong learner, Bylsma earned his degree in philosophy from Central before attending seminary for a year and later completing his master’s and doctoral degrees in history at the University of Iowa. His Ph.D. focused on English parliamentary history. While studying there, he met his future wife, Paula Ann Dupree, who also earned a master’s in history. The two married Dec. 28, 1963.
“He was very service-oriented throughout his life — service to his community and to his church was really important to him,” says his son, David Bylsma. “He volunteered with many committees and often served as chair. He was a rule follower.”
Amy adds warmly, “He liked rules but was always willing to challenge authority if he thought they were wrong.”
David added, “He wasn’t afraid to have uncomfortable or unpopular conversations with professors, students or parents when he believed it was the right thing to do. He stood by his principles.”
Together, John and Paula lived out their commitment to doing a world of good. They helped start a Habitat for Humanity chapter in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, and were dedicated members of the prison ministry through their church.
“Our family supported a man who was in real trouble and in prison when our dad worked with him,” David recalls. “When he got out of prison, he was able to reintegrate into society because of what my dad had done. Service to others was really important.”
Professionally, Bylsma dedicated more than 31 years to Augustana University in Sioux Falls as a history professor and administrator, serving as assistant academic dean and registrar. He also led a popular off-campus January-term program to London, Paris and Amsterdam, focusing on the architecture of European cities.
His children say he valued connection — with family, friends and former students — and loved returning to Central for Class of 1959 reunions. That sense of connection and his belief in the power of education inspired him to endow a scholarship at his alma mater.
“Scholarships are an investment in students and help us partner with families who are seeking life-changing educational opportunities at Central,” says Sunny Eighmy, vice president for advancement and a 1999 Central alumna. “Dr. Bylsma’s gift reflects the heart of what it means to be part of the Central community — a lifelong dedication to learning, service and helping others thrive. His legacy will continue to inspire and support future generations of Central students.”
