Career
Bender also worked as a television reporter and meteorologist at KSTP-television, KARE-11 television, Washburn Crosby Company -television and KMSP television in Minneapolis. Bender was chosen Mission Minnesota 1992 at the age of 22. Bender became one of the most traveled Mission Minnesota in the pageant"s history, performing a self-esteem program thousands of elementary school students during her year as Mission Minnesota.
Following her year as Mission Minnesota 1992, Bender spent one year as a missionary for Merge Ministries in Reynosa, Mexico where she assisted churches along the border in building youth programs and facilitated mission trips for churches.
Bender holds a certificate in Broadcast Meteorology from Mississippi State University and a degree in Broadcasting from Saint Cloud State University. She received a Master"s Degree in Theological Studies from University of Northwestern in Saint Paul and currently teaches at that University in the Biblical Studies department.
She also travels as an inspirational speaker, presenting talks on faith and a spirit-filled life.
