Concordia University Texas - Impact Report 2022-2023 by concoridatexas

Concordia University Texas’s strategic plan calls for our community to build, connect, and thrive.

The proof that we’re building and connecting is all around us. Together, we’re building new physical facilities and new relationships. Together, we’re forging meaningful connections with each other and with the Austin community. So, what does thriving at Concordia look like? Our campus ministry theme this year comes from 2 Corinthians 12:19, in which God says to the Apostle Paul, “My grace is sufficient for you.” The message in that scripture is that God’s grace is enough.

For me, the essence of “thriving” is having enough. It’s having the resources, the confidence, the enthusiasm, and the faith to fully engage in whatever comes next. Financially, Concordia is better off than we’ve ever been. In 2016, we had $2.5 million in the bank. Today, we have $15.3 million*.

Our leadership team has never been stronger. We have a diverse board of trustees who know and truly understand Concordia University Texas and have complete ownership of our mission. We are decisively and effectively pursuing our strategic plan to build, connect, and thrive every day. And most importantly, we are deeply committed to our Christ-centered mission and to our Lutheran Theology, history and practice.

Because Concordia is thriving in these four key areas, we can lean into new possibilities with confidence. This report highlights just a few examples of how Concordia is thriving right now, in this moment, and how we are poised for those exciting possibilities ahead.

Of course, “thriving” may look different on other university campuses. But our definition is shaped by our unique Concordia culture. While we’ve developed a mentality of “enough” that has sustained us in difficult days and lean years, it’s our faith that has allowed Concordia to thrive for almost a century.

As Christians, we know that we can never truly thrive on our own. We alone can never be enough. But because of our relationship with Jesus Christ, we will always be enough. He is enough. And through Him, together, we thrive.

In Christ,

A Letter from the President

THRIVING is a team sport.

Dr. Donald Christian President & CEO

Concordia University Texas

Concordia University Texas’s strategic plan calls for our community to build, connect, and thrive

Dr. Donald Christian President and CEO

*As of December 31, 2023

Ayudando a los Estudiantes a Prosperar

HELPING STUDENTS THRIVE

Concordia University Texas receives a $2.5 million grant to support Concordia con Corazón

In a significant step toward fostering inclusivity and access to higher education, Concordia University Texas received a five-year, $2.5 million Title V grant to support educational opportunities for Hispanic students.

Administered by the U.S. Department of Education, the Title V grant is awarded to Hispanic Serving Institutions (HSIs), colleges and universities that have an undergraduate enrollment of at least 25% Hispanic students and take intentional steps to empower those students in their pursuit of higher education. Title V grants support programs designed to increase retention, improve educational outcomes, and promote a sense of belonging among Hispanic students.

Concordia Texas will invest $2.5 million in programs related to its Concordia con Corazón initiative. The English translation of corazón is “heart.” Concordia con Corazón – Concordia with Heart – is an initiative designed to help Hispanic students – who make up approximately 37% of the University’s student population – thrive.

“Our Hispanic enrollment is reflective of our central Texas demographics,” says Cindy Melendez, vice president of student services and the HSI officer on the Concordia Texas equity team. “If our student population at Concordia was not reflective of that, it would tell me that we’re closing a door on students who may want to pursue a higher education. The more our student population mirrors what’s true outside of our institution, the more it tells me that we’re providing access to a Concordia Texas education to those who want it.”

Kaitlyn Ruiz is one of the many Hispanic students thriving at Concordia Texas. Ruiz is president of the Concordia Texas Student Government & Leadership Association, a member of the University’s volleyball team, and a junior admissions counselor.

“As an HSI, we’re saying to Concordia Texas’ Hispanic students, ‘We see you,’” Ruiz says. “’We appreciate you coming to Concordia Texas, and we want you to know that we see you for who you are.’”

The Title V grant will support the University’s Summer Bridge Program, an enrichment program for students who have met the minimum academic requirements for acceptance to Concordia Texas but would benefit from college readiness preparation prior to beginning their freshman year. The four-day intensive helps participants enhance their skills in English and math and introduces students to support programs that can help them thrive.

“Summer Bridge is a confidence builder,” says Melendez. “One of the biggest benefits is advanced face-to-face time with financial advisors, tutors, academic advisors, and other resources around campus, so when these students arrive for the fall semester, everything isn’t foreign to them. They have already interacted in a close, private setting.”

Summer Bridge began as a pilot program limited to 15 students. The average GPA for those who completed the program was an impressive 3.44.

While the Title V grant is awarded specifically to Hispanic Serving Institutions, the programs the grant supports are open to all Concordia Texas students. The grant will allow the University to scale the Summer Bridge program to serve more students. The grant will also fund a STEM Summer Bridge Program designed to help rising sophomore STEM majors hone their skills and begin their sophomore year of college better prepared.

Concordia Texas’s service to Hispanic students goes beyond academics. The University is home to organizations and special events designed to make Hispanic students feel not only welcome but an integral part of the Concordia Texas community. LASO, the Latin American Student Organization, stages regular events showcasing Hispanic culture, from a Day of the Dead observance to loteria night, which sees the residence halls hosting Hispanic games. Concordia Texas also celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month with a full calendar of events promoting Hispanic cultures.

“We are thrilled to have received this prestigious grant, which recognizes Concordia Texas’s commitment to inclusivity,” says Dr. Kristi Kirk, provost & executive vice president of Concordia Texas.

“This grant will enable us to continue developing innovative programs that serve not only our Hispanic students but also students from all backgrounds who are ready to pursue an outstanding Christian education at Concordia Texas.”

“There are a lot of different communities and cultures on campus that Concordia Texas brings together into one community,” Ruiz says. “It doesn’t feel like there is any separation between the diverse cultures because, at Concordia Texas, we encourage and embrace everyone equally. Regardless of what culture you come from, you’re going to be celebrated. There’s just so much authenticity and genuine love for each other all across this campus. When it comes to supporting one another and advocating for one another, there’s no hesitation.” 37% Concordia Texas’s Hispanic undergraduate enrollment

25% Hispanic undergraduate enrollment required to be designated a Hispanic Serving Institution.

3.44 Average GPA for freshman Summer Bridge students

The Tornado Trailblazers Program

Concordia Texas programs like Summer Bridge and Trailblazers help first-generation college students thrive.

Trailblazers is a oneyear program that prepares freshmen, most of them first-generation students, for success. Trailblazers participants connect with resources on campus and with each other, forming a cohort of students who share the same challenges and support one another. Students who complete the Trailblazers program receive a scholarship.

30% of Concordia Texas students are firstgeneration students

30 students on average participate in the Tornado Trailblazers Program each year

3.19 Average Tornado Trailblazers’ GPA

Beyond the Buzzer

Stacie Watkins McCollum ’96 receives the inaugural Linda Lowery Achievement Award

“Playing college sports at Concordia Texas gave me the work ethic I needed to succeed in business,” says Stacie Watkins McCollum ‘96. “Sports taught me how to lead, how to motivate teams, and how to build consensus around a common goal. My foundation as a business leader is grounded in what I learned as a student athlete and what I learned from Coach Linda Lowery.”

McCollum is the inaugural recipient of the Linda Lowery Achievement Award, created in honor of longtime Concordia University Texas Coach and Athletic Director Linda Lowery. The award recognizes alumni who not only excelled as student- athletes, but who have made extraordinary professional achievements in their lives beyond Concordia Texas.

A former Concordia Texas volleyball player, McCollum is vice president and head of content with Draftkings, a sports entertainment and technology company. McCollum oversees all of the company’s content initiatives, including the Draftkings Network, the Sports Betting Network, and DK Studio Productions and Operations. Prior to joining Draftkings, McCollum was vice president of programming and acquisitions with ESPN.

“I was blessed to have Linda Lowery as my volleyball coach,” McCollum says. “I wasn’t a superstar on the team, but Linda believed in me and gave me every opportunity to compete and lead. She believed in me when I didn’t believe in myself. Linda encouraged me to chase my dream of a career in sports media. I would not have the career I have today if not for her and the support I received from Concordia Texas.”

enjoyed a trailblazing 28-year career at Concordia Texas, serving as head volleyball, basketball, and golf coach, as well as director of athletics. Concordia Texas hosts the annual Linda Lowery Invitational Golf Tournament in her honor. Lowery retired in 2008, but remains a diehard Tornado fan.

“I’m truly honored that this award is named after me,” Lowery says. “I was raised by loving parents who instilled in me a strong spiritual background in the Lutheran faith. When you get out into the world, it can be easy to forget where you came from and lose focus on the more important things in life. Those 28 years at Concordia provided me with daily reminders of those important things as I was always surrounded by people of faith.”

Today, McCollum is following in Lowery’s footsteps as a role model for female athletes. McCollum is a volunteer mentor with the Global Sports Mentor Program, which brings women from around the world together to support and grow women’s sports.

25% of Concordia Texas students participate in an NCAA sport 25%

“One of the most important life lessons I learned at Concordia Texas was the importance of authenticity,” McCollum says. “Working in sports means I’m often the only female in the room. I’ve been successful by staying true to myself and not conforming to someone else’s perception of who I should be. I’m a better mother, daughter, and executive because of Linda Lowery and my athletics journey at Concordia Texas.”

Linda Lowery, Former Athletic Director Lowery

Stacie Watkins McCullom ‘96 VICE PRESIDENT AND HEAD OF CONTENT DRAFTKINGS

Recipient of the Linda Lowery Achievement Award

Game Changer Summer Sports Camps

A strong athletics program is an integral part of the Concordia Texas educational experience. Collegiate sports don’t just benefit student- athletes. Gathering in the stands to cheer on the Tornados builds comradery and unity among the entire student body and faculty. And whether they supported Concordia Texas when the mascot was the Tornado, the Stag, or the Cardinals, rooting for the University’s sports teams strengthens alumni’s bond with the institution.

Concordia Texas hopes to further strengthen those ties by expanding its athletic facilities. Future plans include adding a soccer field, track field, tennis courts, and an athletic support building. The new facilities will allow the University to host more athletic events on campus, bringing athletes, students, alumni, and fans together as a united Concordia Texas community.

“As our athletic programs grow, we must continue to grow our athletic facilities to keep pace,” Ronda Seagraves, vice president and director of athletics, says. “Our men’s tennis team won a championship this year and our soccer team won the year before. Even with limited facilities on campus, we’re already competing at a very high level. Those performances and our game day atmosphere are only going to get even better once we have on-campus facilities.”

Summer sports camps brought more than 1,200 young athletes to the Concordia Texas campus in 2023. Concordia Texas coaches and student athletes helped boys and girls ages six to 14 hone their skills in baseball, basketball, soccer, volleyball, and softball.

“The coaches and volunteers get a lot of satisfaction in seeing the joy in these younger players’ eyes,” says Clint Mokry, Concordia Texas head baseball coach. “When they have the opportunity to step onto our big, beautiful baseball field, their eyes just light up.”

Summer camps are part of the University’s community outreach, offering youth a safe, funfilled environment and the opportunity to learn from Christian coaches and student athletes. The camps typically conclude with young players asking Concordia Texas athletes for their autographs and parents expressing gratitude for their children’s experiences. Young campers and their families often return to campus to watch the coaches and student athletes they’ve come to know compete in collegiate action.

“Campers not only get a personal introduction to our athletic facilities, they get to know our coaching staff and our current athletes,” Coach Mokry says. “The summer camp experience gives them lasting memories about Concordia Texas and the caring, talented people who make up our University.”

Youth attended summer sports camps 1,200

A Thriving Lutheran Tradition

Over its rich, nearly 100-year history, Concordia University Texas has expanded its programming, relocated to a scenic new campus with ample room to grow, and adapted to meet the ever-changing needs of its students and faculty.

Yet, one thing has remained a constant since 1926.

“For 97 years, Concordia University Texas has been rooted in its Lutheran identity,” says Dr. Don Christian, Concordia Texas president. “We are a place that is Christ centered. And because of that, you cannot separate our Lutheran beliefs from anything else we do, whether it’s learning in the classroom or online, living on campus, or playing on an athletic team. Every aspect of living and learning at Concordia Texas revolves around Christ.”

Above all, Concordia Texas is a place where Christ is honored, and all are welcome. More than a university, Concordia Texas is a mission field.

Many of the students who come to Concordia Texas have never been to church or heard the Gospel until they arrived on campus. The University’s calling is not just to teach these students about business or nursing or education and point them toward a career. It’s to point them toward Jesus Christ.

“The idea of being saved by grace through faith in Jesus Christ, I see that played out through the conversations and interactions I have with my professors,” says Concordia Texas student, Ty Broyles, Spring ‘25.

“Our professors are helping us find what our calling is, what God has called us to be,” says Kareleen Lakamp, Fall ‘24. “Then they help us grow into that calling and prepare to live out that vocation after we graduate.”

The mission of Concordia Texas is to empower students of all backgrounds to lead lives of critical thought, compassionate action, and courageous leadership. As the business of higher education changes, Concordia Texas’ strategies to fulfill that mission may need to adapt. However, the University’s mission and it’s Lutheran identity that inform that mission, will remain steadfast for the next 100 years and beyond.

“We as Lutheran Christians see our vocation as being about giving glory to God and serving our neighbor. We do our work well because we have been gifted by God with certain talents and put in a role to live out. If you take faith and our Lutheran identity out of that, Concordia Texas is just another good college. But when you put Jesus at the center of it, Concordia Texas is a place that changes lives.”

ABIDE

Concordia University Texas honors Christ by sharing the Gospel and teaching through a faith lens. The University’s commitment to welcoming all stems directly from a desire to honor Him. Concordia Texas is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion because of our faith, a faith in which we are called by Christ to love and serve our neighbor.

Concordia Texas has developed a meaningful acronym that summarizes the University’s intentional effort to share Christ’s love with people from all racial, ethnic, and faith backgrounds and from all walks of life.

ABIDE centers on the access, belonging, inclusion, diversity, and equity that is found in Christ and how Concordia Texas shares those ideals with others. The University gives students access to spaces that feel welcoming and safe, where they feel they belong. In these spaces, students can talk openly about their differences and how their faith shapes their lives.

“Concordia University Texas is a place where Christ is honored and all are welcome. So, when we talk about ABIDE, it is rooted in the Scriptures,” Dr. Christian says. “It is rooted in Jesus Christ and His love for all. And if we welcome all, then all need to feel as if they belong, and have a place where their voices can be heard.”

2023 Missional Youth Retreat

An annual, week-long event held on the Concordia Texas campus, Missional Youth Retreat (MYR) gives high school students from Lutheran churches in Texas and other states an opportunity to participate in meaningful, hands-on mission work.

Geared toward the most engaged students in youth ministry programs, MYR has often been an event during which God has called students into professional ministry. Concordia Texas has hosted MYR since sometime in the late 1970s.

“I know pastors in their 60s who heard the call to ministry as high school students at MYR,” says Jake Youmans, Concordia Texas’ Professor of Religious Education, who coordinates the annual event.

“The key to the MYR experience is that the kids aren’t just talking about ministry, they’re actually ministering at a wide variety of places all over Austin,” Youmans says. “When you feed a person who hasn’t had a meal in a couple of days, it changes your life. When you spend time with a lonely senior citizen who hasn’t had another human interaction in weeks, it changes your life. When you connect with kids with special needs and see the joy and the love they have to give, it changes your life. We’re giving these kids an opportunity to experience these life-changing things. And from a preparation standpoint, the best way to learn if God is calling you to perform ministry is to experience it.”

Concordia Texas sophomore Brooke Martin attended MYR as a high school student in 2019. Her MYR experience helped lead her to enroll in Concordia, and prompted her to serve as an associate director at MYR in 2023.

“That week at MYR really pushed me out of my comfort zone. I had conversations with college leaders and adult mentors who worked in ministry, and ministry suddenly became a very real possibility for me, too…I’m excited to see what the Lord has in store, and I’m eager to go where He wants me.” MYR also gives Concordia Texas an opportunity to serve the church at large by helping find and equip more future church leaders and full-time workers.

“Of course, everyone won’t become an official church worker,” Youman says. “But every follower of Jesus needs to understand their role in service to the church and to the world at large. If these students are called into full-time professional ministry, praise God. If they’re called to be doctors, lawyers, or whatever else, praise God. MYR helps them to see how their vocations, whatever God has called them to, can be a ministry.”

STUDENT PARTICIPANTS

STUDENT LEADERS & VOLUNTEERS

Student participants have come to MYR from Lutheran churches in Texas, Colorado, Florida, Oklahoma, and Tennessee.

A group of students from Hong Kong is slated to participate in the 2024 MYR.

Courses of Nature

The Texas Master Naturalist Program Concordia University Texas views stewardship of God’s creation as a part of its mission. In 2014, Concordia Texas established the first collegiate chapter of the Texas Master Naturalist Program, a program that trains volunteers to provide community education and outreach on the conservation of Texas’s natural resources. Volunteers certified through the program provide valuable support to the Texas Department of Parks and Wildlife and the Texas A&M Agrilife Extension.

Dr. Sam Whitehead, chair of Concordia Texas’ Department of Environmental Science and Conservation, led the effort to find a Texas Master Naturalist chapter at the University.

“Like a lot of volunteer organizations, the program’s demographics were skewed towards retirees,” says Dr. Whitehead. “The Texas Master Naturalists were interested in getting younger people involved who would hopefully become lifelong volunteers, and who might translate their volunteer work into a full-time career in natural resources.”

Whitehead had previously launched a Texas Master Naturalist chapter in Lubbock and saw a natural partnership waiting at Concordia Texas. He reached out to the program’s president and pitched the idea of a pilot program – a college chapter that would increase participation by young adults.

The result was the Balcones Canyonlands Chapter at Concordia University Texas. Open to Concordia Texas students and participants from the larger Austin community, the chapter has since grown from a pilot program to one of the largest Texas Master Naturalist chapters in the state. Current membership stands at more than 200 volunteer conservationists.

Concordia Texas students who complete the classroom training and field work required for certification as master naturalists also receive college course credit. The program attracts Concordia Texas students interested in careers in the environmental sciences, with five to seven students typically earning Master Naturalist certification each academic year.

“This is a valuable educational tool for our students,” Dr. Whitehead says. “The Master Naturalist program covers so many topics, and every class is taught by a different environmental professional.

The program also offers meaningful networking and mentorship opportunities. Students have a chance to get valuable life and career advice from people other than their professors who are passionate about this work. And every one of those instructors represents someone who could give my students a job one day.”

“I think that the greatest benefit I'll receive is having a deeper understanding of the ecosystems I come in contact with every day and learning how to support them,” says Concordia Texas senior and Master Naturalist candidate Jasmine Baiocchi. “My future career plans aren’t firm yet, but I know this information will be incredibly helpful in terms of planning for minimal environmental impact.”

The Balcones Canyonlands chapter focuses its training and volunteer work on Texas’s Eastern Hill Country. While the Concordia Texas campus is home to a 250-acre protected nature preserve, Dr. Whitehead encourages students to do their volunteer field work off campus.

“Our students benefit from going out there and meeting new people, especially professionals in the fields in which they may want to work,” Dr. Whitehead says. “It’s a handson opportunity to become familiar with the wide range of career possibilities in the environmental sciences.”

Concordia Texas students may work in wildlife preserves, lead educational tours, test water quality, remove invasive plants, monitor bird life, explore underground caves, or perform countless other forms of “citizen science” work.

“I’m really enjoying the field trips,” Baiocchi says. “Seeing the things I'm learning about in the classroom training in real life and doing volunteer work that makes a difference makes the program really engaging. My most memorable experience so far has to be the entomology class. A lot of people are scared of bugs, but they're fascinating once you start learning about them and understand how important they are.”

“So many environmental agencies are poorly funded and don’t have the staff necessary to go out and find big grants to support research, so they rely heavily on volunteers,” Dr. Whitehead says. “The Texas Master Naturalist Program is valuable to the state and future employers think it looks fantastic on a resume.”

Since the Balcones Canyonlands chapter was established, at least three other chapters have been founded on other Texas college campuses.

Let the fields be jubilant, and everything in them; let all the trees of the forest sing for joy.

Psalm 96:12

Of the 47 Texas Master Naturalist chapters statewide, the Balcones Canyonlands chapter has the youngest membership.

“Concordia Texas’ vision in starting the first university chapter opened the Texas Master Naturalist Program up to a smart, younger membership,” says Julian Yates, president of the Balcones Canyonlands chapter.

“The college students bring enthusiasm, inquisitive minds, and energy, not to mention advanced tech skills. In turn, our older members enjoy mentoring these students and passing on their knowledge. The Master Naturalist program shares knowledge about the complexities of our environment, how easily we’re harming it, and what we can do to protect it. Starting with younger people leaves a better, longer lasting legacy for the future.”

Approximately 50 Concordia Texas students certified as Texas Master Naturalists since 2015

79 Participants in the Balcones Canyonlands chapter’s fall 2023 training class, including 7 Concordia Texas students

250 Members in the Balcones Canyonlands chapter

$623,484

$623,484 Estimated value of volunteer service by chapter members to the state of Texas

27,108 Volunteer hours logged by chapter members since 2014

Naturalists by the Numbers

Dr. Sam Whitehead leading a preserve tour. The Concordia Texas campus is home to a 250-acre protected nature preserve.

Building on a Family Legacy

Dan and Mark Beto never attended Concordia University Texas, yet the brothers made memories on the campus that will last a lifetime.

Their father, George Beto, served as president of Concordia Texas from 1949 to 1959. The historic Concordia Texas campus near downtown Austin was the Beto brothers’ childhood playground.

“We had the run of the place,”Mark recalls with a smile. “The trees, the fields, the gym, the construction sites. There always seemed to be a building project in progress. Morris Dunbar, the combination groundskeeper, handyman, and janitor, would let us ride on the floor buffer down the hallways of Kramer Hall, the long, narrow classroom building south of the library.”

“I remember interacting with a number of Concordia Texas students, some of whom we’ve remained in touch with today,” Mark’s older brother, Dan, adds. “And it was on the Concordia Texas campus that Morris Dunbar later taught me how to drive.” The Beto’s’ father left a legacy at Concordia Texas. George Beto graduated from Concordia Seminary in 1939 and accepted his first call to join the faculty at Concordia Lutheran College, a decision that, according to his family, he never regretted.

Beto spent 20 years at Concordia Texas, including a decade as the college’s president. He was a visionary leader. During Beto’s presidency, he initiated an ambitious building program, transitioned the school into a junior college in 1951, desegregated the campus in 1953 – prior to the landmark Supreme Court decision in Brown v. Board of Education – and admitted Concordia Texas’ first female students in 1955.

Dan and Mark Beto, following their late mother’s lead, have been generous donors to Concordia Texas for many years, honoring their father’s legacy and demonstrating their unwavering support for Concordia Texas as the University has evolved over the 60-plus decades since George Beto’s’ tenure.

“We continue to contribute to Concordia University Texas because we believe in its mission and its enlightened leadership,” says Dan Beto.

Brothers, Dan and Mark Beto with their wives, Donna and Shelly, on the Concordia Texas campus. Dan and Mark Beto are the sons of George Beto, former President of Concordia Texas from 1949 - 1959.

“While being mindful and respectful of the past, Concordia Texas’ leadership has been moving the University successfully into the future… I think our father would be proud that Concordia Texas has continued to evolve, to improve, to change with the times, and to help meet the changing needs of society.”

– Mark Beto

“If our father were alive today, I suspect he would be proud and pleased with Concordia Texas’ diversity, its impressive financial condition, its strong board of regents, and the administration’s courageous willingness to make difficult decisions in advancing Concordia Texas to become a world-class Christian institution of higher learning.”

“While being mindful and respectful of the past, Concordia Texas’ leadership has been moving the university successfully into the future,” Mark Beto says.

“Change is extremely important. An organization, be it a university or a society at large, must continue to evolve, break new ground, and explore new opportunities. One should have a healthy disdain for the status quo. I think our father would be proud that Concordia Texas has continued to evolve, to improve, to change with the times, and to help meet the changing needs of society.”

“If our father had the opportunity to visit the current campus and speak with Concordia Texas students today, without a doubt he would be impressed with the physical plant, the many academic offerings, and the vibrant and diverse student body,” Dan Beto says. “I can only imagine how pleased he would be with how far Concordia Texas has come in its first century and how much promise the next 100 years holds.”

“We continue to contribute to Concordia University Texas because we believe in its mission and its enlightened leadership.”

Dan Beto

The Marilynn Knippa Beto Nursing Scholarship Endowment

Dan and Mark Beto’s most recent gift to Concordia Texas was the establishment of an endowment in memory of their mother. Marilynn Knippa was studying to become a nurse when she married George Beto. The Marilynn Knippa Beto Nursing Scholarship Endowment will support nursing students who are immigrants or the children of immigrants.

“Our mother was descended from Wendish ancestors who immigrated to Texas in the mid-19th century,” Mark Beto says. “Dan and I wanted to honor those Wendish roots. We believe in the value and strength of immigration and in the American melting pot. Since America’s success – past, present, and future – is based on immigration, we see great value in supporting the education of immigrants and their families. We hope this scholarship will enable some promising students to prepare for a life of service and make this nation a better place.”

Education as a Prison Ministry

After leaving Concordia College in 1959, George Beto served as president of Concordia Theological Seminary in Springfield, Illinois, then went on to become the director of the Texas Department of Corrections. Beto established groundbreaking educational programs for those who were incarcerated, recognizing the power of education to reduce recidivism. After retiring from the prison system, Beto served as a distinguished professor of criminal justice at Sam Houston State University until 1991. At the time of his death, George Beto was serving as chief of chaplaincy services at the Texas Youth Commission.

As Mark Beto notes, “Our father brought to his duties both in higher education and in the criminal justice system the same belief in the importance of education, faith, and hard work, and the same love for people.”

Marilynn Frances Knippa Beto studied nursing when she married George Beto, former Concordia Texas President from 1949-1959.

OCTOBER 24, 2026

A Celebration a Century in the Making

The Concordia University Texas Centennial

In 2026, Concordia University Texas will celebrate its 100th anniversary with festivities honoring the university’s rich heritage and looking ahead to its faith-filled future.

“The centennial is a wonderful opportunity for us to reinvigorate our connections with one another and launch relationships with new students and younger people,” says Melissa Knippa, a former member of the Concordia Texas Board of Regents who serves on the Concordia Texas Centennial Committee. “The young people coming to Concordia Texas today may look and act differently than those who came in the past. Yet, they still need the same kind of nurturance and the same opportunity to know and understand the depth and beauty of the Lutheran faith that Concordia Texas has offered for the past 100 years.”

The Centennial Committee is planning special observances and events to recognize this milestone anniversary, including a campus-wide worship service on October 24, 2026.

The road to the centennial celebration will also include the launch of a capital campaign in early 2024. Campaign goals include growing the University’s endowment and raising funds to expand the athletic facilities and enhance campus worship spaces.

As fundraising goals are met and construction begins, groundbreaking and dedication ceremonies will be added to the calendar of centennial events.

The Concordia Texas story began in 1926, when the institution was founded as a high school for boys studying for the Lutheran ministry. Over the next century, Concordia Texas would grow from a high school to an outstanding Christian university, add innovative academic programs and championship athletic teams, and eventually outgrow its original location and move to a spacious new campus with room to expand. Yet for nearly a century, the Lutheran faith lived out at Concordia Texas has remained a constant.

“It’s stunning to me to see what God has done at Concordia Texas and how far the University has come. So much has come from taking brave steps, sometimes into areas of discomfort,” Knippa says. “There is a limitless future for Concordia Texas. We continue to see that God has big plans for our University, and we must continue to be open to big ideas. We cannot always do things exactly as we’ve done them in the past and expect to have vibrant growth in the future. Sometimes, taking that next big step is what leads to the next big opportunity for Christ in the world.”

1 st Advertising Dedication of Concordia Texas Doors Open at Concordia Texas Financial Struggles

Members of Texas’s Wendish community, comprised of immigrants from eastern Germany, announce the opening of Lutheran Concordia College of Texas, a boarding school for boys preparing to become Lutheran ministers. An early advertisement for Concordia Texas asks, “Have you not a boy to send? The Lord hath need of him.”

Some 1,500 people gather on 19 acres of prairie land in Austin for the Lutheran Concordia College of Texas Dedication Day. The first building, Kilian Hall, is named in honor of John Kilian, founder of the first Texas Lutheran church aligned with the LCMS. Dedication Day is a joyous celebration marked by speeches, hymns, and prayer.

Concordia Texas opens its doors to 26 students under the direction of the Rev. Henry Studtmann, the school’s first president, whose welcoming remarks are drawn from Psalm 108: With God, we shall do valiantly. The dormitory is not yet completed; students sleep on cots in the chapel.

In the face of financial struggles triggered by The Great Depression, Concordia Texas’ board calls a special meeting to discuss whether to press forward or close the school’s doors. Acting on faith, the board votes to continue. President Studtman will later say, “It was only by the grace of God that Concordia Texas survived at all.”

Concordia Texas will host a joyous centennial celebration on October 24, 2026. Pastors who are alumni and friends will be invited to lead the processional at a campus-wide worship service thanking God for the many blessings Concordia Texas has received over the past 100 years.

Dorm Sweet Dorm

Melissa Knippa served on the Board of Regents for nine years, but her deep ties to Concordia Texas go back further than her board service. Shortly after graduating from the University of Texas, Melissa married Bill Knippa, a Concordia Texas alumnus, Lutheran pastor, and Concordia Texas’s dean of men. For the first two years of their marriage, the Knippas lived in Behnken Hall on Concordia Texas’ historic downtown campus.

“At 22, I moved from the sorority house to the boy’s dormitory and became the dorm mom,” Knippa recalls. “Today, some of the young men who lived in that dorm are Lutheran pastors. But I will always remember them as the boys who were trash can bowling on the floor above us at 2:00 in the morning or who came knocking on our door at midnight because they’d locked themselves out of their rooms again.”

Years later, Knippa was serving on the board of regents when Concordia Texas voted to move from its historic original location to its current campus.

“It was hard to leave the site where so many memories were made. Change of any kind is hard, especially when people are so deeply invested in the organization,” Knippa says. “But we knew the move was necessary for the future blossoming of a vibrant, important part of Texas Lutheranism that we wanted to see continue for multiple generations. God has the power to continue to lead our University into the future in a way that will be blessed, just as that change when we moved has been a blessing by every measure.”

What’s in a Name?

Over the past century, the Concordia University Texas athletic teams have been named Outlaws, Cardinals, Stags and Tornados. No matter with which mascot our alumni and friends most strongly identify, we are all Concordia Texas.

Concordia Texas Recruits

Concordia Texas Cardinals

Concordia Texas’ informal sports teams adopt the nickname, “Cardinals.”

George Beto, an instructor and future president of Concordia Texas, makes a series of promotional films documenting student life. The films are shown in Lutheran churches as a recruitment tool.

Concordia Texas adds a Jr. College

Concordia Texas adds a two-year junior college while continuing its high school program.

Outlaws (1926-1936)

Cardinals (1936-1951)

Stags (1951-1995)

Tornados (1995-present)

Concordia Texas integrates

Concordia Texas is integrated. Henry Sorrell becomes the school’s first Black student.

Concordia Texas goes co-ed

Concordia Texas goes co-ed, with Jeanette Wagner recognized as the first female student. The introduction of female students ends a long-standing tradition among male students of coming to breakfast in their pajamas.

Melissa Knippa is a former member of the Concordia University Texas Board of Regents.

Pictured with her husband Rev.

William “Bill” Knippa.

Name change

The institution adopts the name Concordia Lutheran College.

September 2008, contractors finish work on the dorms and help students move into the new campus. Classes are interrupted by electricians and painters finishing work.

The high school program is discontinued. Concordia Texas now focuses entirely on establishing a reputation as an outstanding institution of higher education.

High school program discontinued Dedication of Concordia Texas new campus

Concordia Texas officially celebrates the opening of its current campus, 82 years to the day after the first day of classes.

In an attempt to postpone taking an exam, a group of students places a large rock in front of the doors to Kramer Hall, blocking the entrance. Now a Concordia Texas legend, that painted-purple rock occupies a place of honor in the Purple Rock Courtyard on the current Concordia Texas campus.

Concordia Texas continues to construct new buildings to accommodate its growing programming and enrollment, pushing the limits of its physical space.

Concordia Texas continues to expand its academic programs and its physical plant to better serve its growing student body and the greater Austin community.

Concordia Texas begins planning its Centennial Celebration.

Settling in

The legend of the purple rock Expanding & Serving

Taking a leap of faith

At a time when many other two-year institutions in Texas are closing, Concordia Texas steps out in faith and becomes a fouryear college. A member of the first graduating class says, “We were excited to be the trailblazers, the first ones to graduate from a four-year institution named Concordia Lutheran College of Texas.”

Fully accredited

Concordia Texas expands its programming to include new majors and a graduate program in education, earns accreditation as a university, and adopts the name Concordia University at Austin.

Growing pains

The lack of physical space can no longer be ignored. Concordia Texas begins the search for a new campus.

New campus purchased

After considering 33 sites, Concordia Texas purchases a scenic new campus in northwest Austin with room for future growth. The institution adopts the name Concordia University Texas.

Last day on the historic campus July 18 2008

Concordia Texas marks the last day, July 18, 2008 on its historic campus. The community says a final prayer of thanks for the gifts God bestowed in that beloved place. Artifacts precious to Concordia Texas, including the cruciform, stained-glass windows from the chapel, and the purple rock, are moved to the new campus.

Capital Campaign Launches

Concordia Texas launches a capital campaign to support future growth.

Concordia Texas celebrates 100 years

Concordia Texas celebrates a century of providing a Christcentered, Lutheran education.

TEXAS

A Letter from the Board of Regents Chair

For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.

- Jeremiah 29:11

If I had to choose a Scripture that defines this time at Concordia University Texas, I would without a doubt choose Jeremiah 29:11. Right now, Concordia is stepping into the most exciting time in our University’s 100-year history.

The Concordia Texas Board of Regents seeks to lead the University in a way that allows it to flourish as an academic institution and fulfills Concordia’s ultimate mission as a part of God’s Kingdom. That means not only preparing students from all walks of life to pursue the vocations to which they are called, but also introducing students from all walks of life to the Lutheran faith.

Enthusiastic feedback from our students, parents, faculty, and the employers who hire our graduates tells us that Concordia is fulfilling that mission. The diverse members of our community are more excited and inspired by the atmosphere on our campus and the Christ-centered educational experience we offer than ever before in our history.

Concordia is thriving. Our mission outreach is growing. We can measure that growth in terms of student enrollment, in increased financial resources, and in the planned facilities we’re building. We can also measure thriving in terms of the optimism, confidence, and faith that’s palpable on the Concordia campus.

The future for Concordia is bright. Our board is steadfast in its pursuit of the Christian mission and the Lutheran faith upon which Concordia was founded, which will always be at the University’s center. It is our Christ-centered mission and our Lutheran faith that guide us toward the hope and the future we believe God has planned for Concordia University Texas.

I know I speak for our entire community when I say that I can’t wait to see what the next 100 years will bring.

In Christ,

Christopher J. Bannwolf Chair, Concordia Texas Board of Regents

Board of Regents

Michelle H. Abrego

Quentin Anderson

Christopher J. Bannwolf, Chair

Kristy Carr

Theodore Crofford

Sandra Doering

Mary Beth Gaertner

Lonnie Gonzales

Peter Hames

Raymond L. Kym

Heidi Lewis

Scott Linebrink

Michael W. Newman

Denise Patrick

Deborah Rich Herczeg

Sylvia Schmidt

Stephen Sohns

Betty Voshage

Donor Honor Roll

The Concordia University Texas

Centennial

Concordia University Texas is grateful for the support of donors who make our mission possible. The following list includes contributors who gave between July 1, 2022 and June 30, 2023 and over $250. If you would like more information on opportunities or how to give, please contact philanthropy@concordia.edu.

INDIVIDUALS

Rev. Dr. Alan and Mrs. Audrey Abel

Ms. Grace Adloff

Mr. Billy Moyer and Mrs. Ashley Alaniz-Moyer

Mr. Roy and Mrs. Sharon Albe

Mr. James and Mrs. Deborah Albers

Mr. Quentin and Mrs. Eileen Anderson

Ms. Nancy Anguish

Dr. Joanne Antrim

Mr. James and Mrs. Laura Arldt

Mrs. Elizabeth and Dr. Jeffrey Atherton

Mr. Scott Austin

Mr. Johnny Ayala

Mr. Christopher J. Bannwolf

Ms. Linda Beatty

Mr. Brian and Mrs. Kim Becker

Ms. Aubrey Becker

Mr. Mike and Mrs. Joyce Best

Mr. Dan and Mrs. Donna Beto

Mrs. Marilynn Beto †

Mr. Jeffrey and Mrs. Christine Bibler

Ms. Dorothy Bice

Ms. Kassandra Bills

Mr. Fred and Mrs. Candace Bleeke

Mr. Stephen and Mrs. Sandra Block

Dr. Matthew Bloom

Mr. Eugene and Mrs. Katherine Bode

Mr. Mark and Mrs. Carolyn Boerger

Rev. Jacob and Mrs. Nicolette Boessling

Ms. Daniel Bojorquez

Rev. Richard and Mrs. Delores Boyer

Mr. Patrick and Mrs. Jane Brant

Mr. Russell Bridges

Mr. Robert Brown

Mr. Calvin and Mrs. Ruby Buesing

Dr. Brent and Dr. Prairie Burgess

Mrs. Catherine Burkhard

Mrs. Joanne and Mr. Kevin Burks

Mr. Andrew Burns

Mr. Paul and Mrs. Carol Burns

Mr. Charles and Mrs. Debbie Busse

Mr. Richard and Mrs. Cathy Bye

Mr. Patrick and Mrs. Kara Carlove

Dr. Kelly Carmichael

Mr. Rodger and Mrs. Jean Carr

Mr. Adam and Mrs. Michelle Case

Ms. Leila Cash

Mr. Edgar and Mrs. Ekaterina Casillas

Mr. Juan Carlos Castelan

Dr. Thomas and Mrs. Penny Cedel

Mr. Wayne Charley

Mr. Richard Chavez

Ms. Amy Chavez

Dr. Donald and Mrs. Deborah Christian

Ms. Susan Clark

Ms. Sarah Clawson

Mr. Jame and Mrs. Pat Cleary

Mr. Frank Cogborn

Mr. Clayton and Mrs. Michelle Cole

Mr. John Crow

Rev. Martin Danner

Mr. Dan and Mrs. Gina Darden

Ms. Marla Davis

Ms. Yolanda De Hoyos

Mr. Rex and Mrs. Janet Delventhal

Mr. Del and Mrs. Lil Deterling

Mrs. Laura Dinda

Mr. Joel and Mrs. Marci Dittmer

Mr. Francisco Nieves

Rev. Martin and Dr. Sandra Doering

Mr. Rick Donovan

Mr. Mike and Mrs. Tracey Dorsey

Mr. Ronald and Mrs. Kim Draeger

Mr. Michael Dubois

Ms. Anna Dunn

Mrs. Nettie Ehlers

Dr. Lori Einfalt

Ms. Rebecca Ellington

Ms. Anne Ellison

Ms. Denise Encarnacion

Mr. Marshall England

Mrs. Shari and Mr. Wayne Eskew

Rev. Steven and Mrs. Pat Fick

Mrs. Elinor Fischer

Rev. Harold and Mrs. Jean Fleischhauer

Mr. Nicholas and Mrs. Aimee Franz

Mr. Paul and Mrs. Marla Franz

Mr. David and Mrs. Carole Frederking

Mrs. Angeline Frerichs

Ms. Nancy Fryer

Mr. Thomas Garza

Ms. Linda Gattis

Mr. Philip and Mrs. Carol Gersmehl

Rev. Dr. Curtis and Mrs. Nancy Giese

Dr. John Gillis and Dr. Lynette Gillis

Mr. Johnny and Mrs. Erica Gonzalez

Dr. Erik and Mrs. Christina Green

Mr. Theodore Greenwald

Mr. Daniel and Mrs. Mandy Gregory

Mr. John and Mrs. Antoinette Griffin

Dr. Daniel Guerrero

Mr. Edwin and Mrs. Margaret Haas †

Mr. Lester and Mrs. Marlene Hahn

Mr. Frank Hale and Mrs. Lupita Machietto

Mr. Peter and Mrs. Suzann Hames

Mr. Paul and Mrs. Merry Hamilton

Rev. Thomas and Mrs. Sally Handrick

Mrs. Ida Hansen

Mr. Ben and Mrs. Margaret Harris

Mr. Phillip Harris

Ms. Jennifer Harvill

Mr. Vince Hash

Mr. Curtis Hawley

Ms. Karen Hayes

Mr. Charles and Mrs. Susan Heather

Mrs. Joyce Heckmann

Mrs. Juanita Helmer †

Mr. Efrain Hernandez

Mr. David and Mrs. Dealey Herndon

Dr. Drew Herron and Dr. Alex Herron

Mr. Arden and Mrs. Donna Hetland

Dr. Tom Hilgendorf

Rev. Nate and Mrs. Candice Hill

Rev. Ralph and Mrs. Lynn Hobratschk

Dr. Jennifer Hofmann

Mr. Kenneth Holley

Mr. Donald Hopp

Mr. Kevin Hoppman

Mr. Glenn and Mrs. Mary Horn

Mr. Levon and Mrs. Susan Hovnatanian

Rev. Paul and Mrs. Lois Howe

Mr. Michael and Dr. Carol Huebner

Mr. James and Mrs. Debbie Huff

Mr. Rick and Mrs. Jacqueline Huggins

Mrs. Pamela and Mr. Michael Hughes

Mr. Larry and Mrs. Martha Huseman

Mr. Stephen and Mrs. Patricia Hyle

Mr. Jamian and Dr. Elaina Jackson

Mr. Steven and Mrs. Lisa Jahnke

Dr. Betty Jensen

Mr. James Jensen

Mr. Robert Jones

Ms. Jackie Jungemann

Ms. Winifred Kajs

Mrs. Elizabeth Kalbacher

Mr. John and Mrs. Myla Kaster

Mr. Matthew and Mrs. Amanda Keeter

Mr. Curtis and Mrs. Karen Kelly

Mr. Marvin and Mrs. Margaret Kelm

Mr. Jimmy and Mrs. Jane Kersten

Mr. Ron and Mrs. April Kerwin

Mr. Charles and Dr. Lauren Kieschnick

Rev. John Kieschnick

Mr. Jonathan and Mrs. Olga Kieschnick

Mr. Jason Kieschnick

Ms. Kassi Kincaid

Mr. Daniel and Dr. Kristi Kirk

Mr. Charles and Mrs. Patricia Kleinert

Ms. Nancy Klesner

Mr. Maury and Mrs. Evelyn Knape

Mr. Gary and Mrs. Carroll Knippa

Rev. Dr. William and Mrs. Melissa Knippa

Mr. John and Mrs. Marjorie Koehler

Mr. Glen and Mrs. Joyce Kokel

Mrs. Evelyn Krause

Rev. James and Dr. Norma Kretzmann

Mr. Raymond and Mrs. Patricia Kym

Mr. Michael and Mrs. Cathy Lacey

Dr. Howard Lacey †

Mr. Leslie and Mrs. Margaret Lakie

Mr. Mark and Mrs. Deborah Lamb

Mr. David Lancaster

Ms. Sheri Land

Mr. Jeffrey and Mrs. Graciela Landel

Mr. Bryan and Dr. Margaret Landwermeyer

Mr. Paul and Mrs. Mary Larson

Mr. Gilbert and Mrs. Jan Larson

Ms. Cynthia Leftwich

Ms. Barbara Lettunich

Mr. Tim and Mrs. Heidi Lewis

Mr. Milton and Mrs. Elizabeth Liese

Mrs. Jean Linderman

Mr. Steven and Mrs. Kathryn Lindsay

Mr. Scott and Mrs. Kelly Linebrink

Mr. Shane Lollar

Ms. Darla Lorber

Ms. Linda Lowery

Mr. Larry and Mrs. Beverly Luedke

Mr. Greg Maldonado

Dr. Robert and Mrs. Ellen Malzahn

Rev. James and Mrs. Evelyn Mann

Mr. Kenneth and Mrs. Linda Markert

Mr. Steven and Mrs. Elizabeth Martens

Mr. Dave Martens

Mrs. Jane Martens

Mrs. Stephanie Martens

Mr. Darren and Mrs. Courtney Masur

Ms. Hillarie Matthews

Ms. Kristi Matus

Mr. Stephen and Mrs. Rose McIntyre

Ms. Connie McMillan

Mr. Brandon and Mrs. Kristin McMinn

Mr. Francis and Mrs. Lynne Meagher

Mr. John and Mrs. Patricia Meiller

Dr. Victor and Mrs. Beverley Michalk

Rev. Wilbern and Mrs. Betty Michalk

Mr. Ken Miertschin

Ms. Jean Minsch

Mr. Tim and Mrs. Jolie Mittlestadt

Mr. Dick and Mrs. Joyce Moeller

Mr. Alfonse and Mrs. Barbara Mokry

Mr. Samuel Narvaez

Rev. Michael and Mrs. Cindy Newman

Rev. Dr. Richard and Mrs. Paula Noack

Mr. James and Mrs. Judy Noffke

Mr. Jim and Mrs. Sandy Nowinski

Ms. Tracey Officer

Mr. Jose and Mrs. Marian Olivarez

Mr. Cory Pack

Ms. Kristy Palmer

Rev. Vincent and Mrs. Marianna Parks

Mr. Sairam and Mrs. Hillary Pathi

Mr. Kelly and Mrs. Mollie Payne

Rev. Richard and Mrs. Cynthia Pieplow

Dr. Melissa Pope

Mr. Tooter Porter

Mr. Michael and Dr. KC Pospisil

Mr. Phil and Mrs. Rebecca Powers

Mr. Kenneth and Mrs. Christine Prinz

Rev. Mark and Mrs. Laura Pulliam

Mr. James and Mrs. Sheryl Rank

Mr. Ronald and Mrs. Cathy Reck

Mr. Jimmy Redding

Mr. Terrance Redmann

Mr. Charles and Mrs. Julie Requadt

Ms. Geovanna Ricaldi-Cepeda

Mr. John Paul and Mrs. Skye Richardson

Mr. Randy and Mrs. Krista Richter

Mr. John Riley

Mr. Curtis and Mrs. Donna Riske

Mrs. Virginia and Mr. Ronald Ritter

Mr. Wyndell and Mrs. Carolyn Rivers

CH COL James and Mrs. Vicki Robinson

Mr. Larry and Mrs. Carolyn Roepke

Mr. Michael Rondini

Mr. Brad and Mrs. Lisa Rosenhagen

Capt. Vernon and Mrs. Carolyn Rosson

Mr. Bruce† and Mrs. Carol Rudi

Mr. Mike Rummelhart

Mr. Jose Salinas

Ms. Rhonda Scales

Mrs. Sherry Schaefer

Mrs.

Mr.

Rev.

Ms.

Mr.

Dr.

Mr.

Ms.

Mr.

Mrs.

Mr.

Rev.

Mr.

Dr.

Mr.

Ms.

Rev.

Mr.

Dr.

Mr.

Mrs.

Mr.

Ms.

Mr.

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Rev. A.J. and Mrs. Krissy Vega

Mr. Stan and Mrs. Sandra Voelker

Dr. William and Mrs. Janet Voelter

Ms. Betty Voshage

Mr. Robert and Mrs. Stephanie Wadas

Rev. Richard and Mrs. Madge Wagner

Mrs. Mary Waiser

Mr. and Mrs. Watkins

Mr. Fred and Mrs. Dee Watkins

Mrs. Vicki Watts

Mr. Milton and Mrs. Eudoris Weiser

Ms. Andrea Wenke

Rev. Kevin and Mrs. Tammy Westergren

Mr. Mike Whitten

Mr. Thomas and Ms. Reina Wiatt

Mr. Erik Wiik

Mr. Barnabas and Mrs. Yolanda Willis

Mr. Bob Wilson

Dr. Chris and Mrs. Miriam Winkler

Ms. Kathy Wishert

Dr. Leslie Wisner-Lynch

Rev. Bill and Mrs. Julie Woolsey

Mr. Al Worthy

Ms. Lisa Wysocki

Mr. Colin and Mrs. Tracy Yates

Dr. Jacob and Mrs. Christy Youmans

Mr. Donald and Mrs. Judith Young

Mrs. Charlene Young

Dr. Donald Zielke †

Mr. Erwin Zoch

CHURCHES & RELIGIOUS GROUPS

ACTS Church, Lakeway

ACTS Church, Leander

Amazing Grace Lutheran Church

Bethany Lutheran Church

Christ Lutheran Church

Christ Our Savior Lutheran

Christ The King Lutheran Church

Faith Lutheran Church

Gethsemane Lutheran Church

Good Shepherd Lutheran Church

Grace Lutheran Church King Of Kings Lutheran Church

Lutheran Church Messiah Lutheran Church

Mount Calvary Lutheran Church

Our Redeemer Lutheran Church

Our Savior Lutheran Church of Rockwall

Our Savior Lutheran Church of Austin

Peace Lutheran Church of Hurst

Peace Lutheran Church of Texas City

Peace Lutheran Church of Groves

St. John Lutheran Church

St. Matthew Lutheran Church of Westfield

St. Paul Lutheran Church LWML

Texas District LCMS

Trinity Lutheran Church of Borger

Trinity Lutheran Church of San Angelo

Trinity Lutheran Church of Houston

Trinity Lutheran Church of Odem

Trinity Lutheran Church of Navasota

Trinity Lutheran Church LWML

Zion Lutheran Church

ENDOWMENTS & SCHOLARSHIPS

A. B. Klein and Rosa Klein Endowment Fund

A. W. and Adell Knippa Family Scholarship Endowment

Adolph and Ann Heiner Scholarship Endowment

Albert J. Goeke Memorial Scholarship Endowment

Alfred & Elvina Miller Scholarship Endowment

Alumni Association Scholarship

Alvin & Esther Schmidt Scholarship Endowment

Annie Mae Hilsberg Memorial Scholarship Endowment

Arline Dinda Memorial Choir Tour Support Endowment

Aurora and Erwin Moerbe Scholarship Endowment

Barbara A. Baeder Scholarship Endowment

Beglau Family Scholarship Endowment

Bernard & Ruth Meyer Gastler Austin Children’s Choir Scholarship Endowment

Bert and Mary (Herzog) Kelm Memorial Scholarship Endowment

Besch Biological Sciences Distinguished Speakers Endowment

Bethlehem Lutheran Church Scholarship Endowment

Beto Academic Center Endowment

Bob and Anita Schjerven Business Scholarship Fund

Bob and Anita Schjerven Church Work Scholarship Fund

Bokenkamp Student Center Endowment

Brian A. Hunt Memorial Scholarship Endowment

Bruce Schierloh Memorial Scholarship Endowment

Business Merit Scholarship

Calvin Rathgeber Memorial Scholarship Endowment

Carl and Hazel Huber Scholarship Endowment

Carl and Ruby (Liberty) Gromatzky Scholarship Endowment

Carl E. & Dorothy Ellebrecht Schroeder Scholarship Endowment

Carl F. & LaVerne K. Rathgeber Church Work Endowment

Carl W. & Alma S. Zersen International Christian Student Scholarship Endowment

Carol Sharp Palmer Scholarship Endowment

Carolyn D. Besch Memorial Scholarship Endowment

Cecil J. and Luanna C. Unruh Scholarship Endowment

Charles H. & Penny B. Moerbe Scholarship Endowment

Charles Haschke Scholarship Endowment

Charles R. Heather Scholarship Endowment

Charles W. & Abbie D. Voelter Scholarship Endowment

Chris and Jeff Hunt Family Scholarship Fund

Christian and Clara Voelter Scholarship Endowment

Clarence and Blanche Wolf Scholarship Endowment

Clarence Y. Best & Georgia Becker Best Scholarship Endowment

Clifford Horn & Bettie Horn Bendewald Lutheran Pre-Seminary & Education Scholarship Fund

Clifton A. Walker ‘52 Memorial Scholarship Endowment

Club Sembradores de Amistad Scholarship Endowment

Concordia Guild Scholarship Endowment

Concordia Players Endowment

Concordia Texas Scuba Scholarship

Curtis and Ruth Doering Scholarship Endowment

Curtis W. & Marilyn (Kelm) Mickan Scholarship Endowment

Cynthia Karianna Liwen Memorial Scholarship Fund

David and Michelle Albers Scholarship Endowment

David White Business Travel Endowment

DCE Scholarship Endowment

Del Kieschnick Scholarship Endowment

Don and Jean Hilsberg Lutheran Teacher Scholarship Endowment

Dorothy Zielke Scholarship Endowment

Dot and Ernie Lueck Inspirational Scholarship Endowment

Dr. Alan and Audrey Abel Scholarship Endowment

Dr. and Mrs. Arthur Ahlschwede Scholarship Endowment

Dr. Arthur Graf and Mildred Graf Scholarship Endowment

Dr. Bernard and Ruth Meyer Gastler Fund

Dr. Bertand du Castel Memorial Scholaship Endowment

Dr. Carl A. Gaertner Scholarship Endowment

Dr. Fred Growcock Alumni Scholarship Endowment

Dr. J. Robert and Mary S. Cade Scholarship Endowment

Dr. John D. Jungemann Scholarship Endowment

Dr. Karin M. Anderson Endowment

Dr. La Verne John Fitch Scholarship Endowment

Dr. M. James and Dody Moritz Scholarship Endowment

E. A. Heckmann Scholarship Endowment

Edith & Alfred Leja English Award

Edwin E. and Bobbie E. Domaschk Scholarship Endowment

Edwin H. and Carolyn A. Moerbe Scholarship Endowment

Elizabeth Kuttruff Scholarship Endowment

Ellen Rae and Marvin M. Haschke Scholarship Endowment

Erna Elmshaeuser Ammons & Esther Schmidt Bobo Scholarship Endowment

Ernest & Elsie Biewener Memorial Scholarship Endowment

Ernest A. Bolland & Miss Katherine Bolland Church Music Scholarship Endowment

Ernest E. & Gertrude M. Koenig Wiederaenders Scholarship Endowment

Esther Herbrich Heather Memorial Scholarship Endowment

Ewald and Gertrude Haschke Scholarship Endowment

Ewald Hempel Scholarship Endowment in memory Johanna Hempel

F. R. and Marie Leschber Student Assistance Endowment

Feucht Family Scholarship Endowment

Fir Scholarship

Frank S. and Geraldine W. Breshears Scholarship Endowment

Frederick J. & Ann E. Strieter Scholarship Endowment

G. E. and Martha Wolf Scholarship Endowment

George C. & Letha F Nicklow Endowment Fund

George J. Beto Memorial Scholarship Endowment

Gerhardt and Dolores Hartman Scholarship Endowment

Gertrude T. Wiederanders Student Assistance Endowment

Glendower and Mildred (Kieschnick) Haedge Scholarship Endowment

Glenn & Sherry Schaefer Scholarship Endowment

Godfrey and Marie Cadra Scholarship Endowment

Goetze Sisters

Greek Award Scholarship Fund

Greene Lecture Series

Greyson B. Johnson Neurodiversity Scholarship Endowment

Hames Family Scholarship Endowment

Harold & Ida Seibel Scholarship Endowment

Harold and Jean Fleischhauer Scholarship Endowment

Harriet I. Hartman Scholarship Endowment

Harris Jean Besch Scholarship Endowment

Harry and Meta Krusemark Memorial Scholarship Endowment

Hayes, Freeling, Cowan Student Assistance Endowment

Hearts for Jesus Scholarship Endowment

Hebrew Award Scholarship Fund

Heitshusen Family DCE Endowment

Henry & Emily Staffeldt Zielke Memorial Scholarship Endowment

Herman and Clara Henrichs Scholarship Endowment

Herman and Clara Krause Scholarship Endowment

Herman and Doris Teinert Scholarship Endowment

Herman Schaefer Memorial Scholarship Endowment

Hilmer & Edna Schaefer Memorial Scholarship

Endowment

Hilsberg Family Scholarship Endowment

Hirschi Maintenance

Homer Haseloff Scholarship Endowment

Horn Family Church Work Scholarship Endowment

Howard/Anderson Scholarship Endowment

Ida J. (Froelich) Lacey Scholarship Endowment

Immanuel Rudi Memorial Scholarship Endowment

Jack and Christie Bauer Scholarship Endowment

James A. and Artice Fay Tate Scholarship Endowment

James C. and Sophie Rode Werchan Scholarship Endowment

James D. & Florence P. Thieme Memorial Scholarship Endowment

Jamin Barrett Nitsche Scholarship Endowment

Jeffrey Michael Nelson Memorial Scholarship Endowment

Jesse H. Jones & Mary Gibbs Jones Endowed Scholarship Fund

Jim and Charlotte Hughes Endowment

Jim McConnell Scholarship Fund

Jim Smith Endowment Fund

Joan E. Goodson and Teri T. Sherman Endowment

Johann Dube Scholarship Endowment

John and Linda Simko & Alvin and Laverne Giese Scholarship Fund

John and Patti Golden Business Mangement Scholarship Endowment

John C. G. Krause Scholarship Endowment

John E. and Hilda M. Albers Scholarship Endowment

John Guest Scholarship Endowment

John H. Kieschnick Scholarship Endowment

John Horn Scholarship Fund

John W. and Mildred L. Barstow Scholarship Endowment

Joyce Mackey Scholarship Endowment

Jubilee Church Work Scholarship Endowment

Judith Ann and David Timothy Stein Scholarship for Nursing Education

Judith Lynne Growcock Memorial Scholarship

Judy Pietsch and Doreen Bohrer Endowment

Julia Krumm Aspiring Organist Scholarship Endowment

Justin Surratt Memorial Scholarship Endowment

Kahanek Wuensche Professional Church Work Endowment

Keith A. Loomans Excellence in Education Awards

Kenneth D. & LaVerna R. Ramming Scholarship Endowment

Kenneth Haunschild Scholarship Endowment

Kiesling Family Scholarship Endowment

Leaders and Learners

Leo & Thelma Gastler Music Scholarship Endowment

Leonard F. Schroeder Scholarship Endowment

Leonard Scott Smith Library Endowment

Leslie & Elaine Koeneke Boyer Scholarship Endowment

Lester & Elaine Robbins Scholarship Endowment

Lifetime Learning Institute of Austin Scholarship Endowment

Lin Charles Pfluger Scholarship Endowment

Lin Rey Biar Scholarship Endowment

Linda C. Lowery Endowed Scholarship Fund

Linebrink and Pieper Families Scholarship Endowment

Lois and Les Bayer Scholarship Endowments

Lori Calder Harris Scholarship Endowment

Louis George Reim Scholarship Endowment

Lutheran Brotherhood Jubilee Scholarship Endowment

Lutheran Brotherhood Scholarship Endowment

M. G. and Lillie A. Johnson Foundation Scholarship Endowment

Margaret Wolf Hart Scholarship Endowment

Marilyn Erickson Bauer Memorial Scholarship Endowment

Marjorie Wilke-Baker Chaplaincy/Counselor Endowment

Markert-Schneider Families Scholarship Endowment

Martha Lamar Scholarship Endowment Fund

Martin and Elaine Schur Scholarship Endowment

Marvin W. & Lucille L. (Voss) Menzel Church Work Scholarship Endowment

Mattil-Thiele Church Work Scholarship Endowment

Meissner Biology Field Trip Endowment

Melita Fund Endowment

Melvin E. Heins Scholarship Endowment

Rev. Dr. Guido Merkens

Merrie Leigh Orton MacInerney Scholarship Endowment

Mildred and Lawrence Lieder Scholarship Endowment

Milton and Esther Sweet Scholarship Endowment

Milton H. Riemer Stratford Scholarship Endowment

Minnie Sprain Fund

Monroe and Helen Karcher Church Work Scholarship Endowment

Mr. & Mrs. Eugene Bode, Sonia, Sarah Scholarship Endowment

Mr. and Mrs. Arnold E. A. Koepsell Scholarship Endowment

Mr. and Mrs. Otto A. Manske Assistance Endowment

Mr. Jacob F. & Mrs. Anna M. Theiss Church Work Scholarship Endowment

Norma and Elmer Hohle Scholarship Endowment

Norman B. and Margie H. Moerbe Scholarship Endowment

Norman W. Holmes Business Merit Scholarship Endowment

Nursing Scholarship Fund

Otho Haunschild Family Scholarship Endowment

Otto & Norma Schaefer Endowed Chair in Literature

Otto C Riske of Trinity, Port Arthur Church Worker Scholarship Endowment

Our Savior Men’s Fellowship Student Assistance Fund

Patricia and Donald Bokenkamp Scholarship Endowment

Paul Nerger/Minnie Nerger Thiele Scholarship Endowment

Peggy Krueger Turnipseed Scholarship Endowment

Perry and Elaine Wells Scholarship Endowment

Peterson Family Scholarship Endowment

Pietsch Scholarship Grant

Pilgrim Help Train Pastor/Teacher Endowment

Professor and Mrs. Howard Lacey Scholarship Endowment

Professor Harold and Viola Rutz Music Department Endowment

R C & Adele Michalk Scholarship Endowment

R. E. Geren Memorial Scholarship Endowment

Ralph Salinas Scholarship Endowment

Ray & Kathryn Schkade Scholarship Endowment

Ray F. and Jane Martens Scholarship Endowment

Reina Wiatt Endowed Scholarship

Rev Dr Samuel I. Goltermann Christian Leadership Award Endowment

Rev Eugene E. and Joyce G. Heckmann Scholarship Endowment

Rev William E. Meyer Scholarship Endowment

Rev. Albert F. Jesse Scholarship Endowment

Rev. Dr. Joel D. & Cheryl L. Heck Texas Lutheran High Church Work Endowment

Rev. Dr. Martin J. Neeb Excellence in Teaching Award

Rev. Dr. Samuel L. Christian Leadership Award Endowment

Rev. Edwin and Cora Bell Nerger Scholarship Endowment

Rev. F. W. Siebelitz Scholarship Endowment

Rev. Fred H. Stelzer Scholarship Endowment

Rev. George and Susan Kolzenicky Memorial Scholarship

Rev. George L. Winkler Scholarship Endowment

Rev. Harold A. Heckmann and Della (Dieterich) Heckmann Endowment

Rev. Jacob and Mrs. Elfrieda Leinninger Scholarship Endowment

Rev. John D. and Eunice Fritz Scholarship Endowment

Rev. Leo and Rose Merle Symmank Church Worker

Scholarship Endowment

Rev. Theodore Schmidt Lutheran Ministry Scholarship Memorial

Rev. Walter & Bertha Lebien & Oscar & Hattie Fischer Scholarship Endowment

Rev. Walter and Margaret Huber Scholarship Endowment

Rev. William and Bessie Mueller Scholarship Endowment

Richard and Elsie Frank Trust Scholarship Endowment

Richard E. & Lydia A. Marburger/J.B. & Ida Hansen Scholarship Endowment

Richard J. Hansen Scholarship Endowment for International Students

Robert A. Brunig Scholarship Fund

Robert and Anita Schjerven Scholarship Fund

Robert and Mary Bauer Theology Professorship Endowment

Robert L. and Loretta V. Eilers Scholarship Endowment

Roger and Kathleen Hackman Scholarship Endowment

Roy M. Rathgeber Memorial Scholarship Endowment

Ruby V. Knigge Scholarship Endowment

Ruth and Ernest Bolland Scholarship Endowment

S. Wayne and Joan A. Cook Scholarship Endowment

St. Paul Lutheran Church, The Grove, Endowment Fund

Stewart and Eleanora Nitsche Lakie Memorial Scholarship Endowment

Suzann West Hames Nursing Endowment

Teacher Bleeke Scholarship Endowment

Texas District Endowment Fund Scholarships for Needy Students

The Bobbie Lee Ferguson Reim Scholarship Endowment

The Jay Sevier Scholarship Fund

The Laurence Meissner Scholarship Endowment

The Linderman/Knippa Chaplaincy Scholarship Endowment

The Louis E. and Meta E. Kissman Scholarship Endowment

The Mel Hobratsch and Friends Scholarship Endowment

The Richard John Neuhaus Endowed Lectureship

Thiele Ariens Family Scholarship Endowment

Thomas H. Orton Memorial Scholarship Endowment

Tom and Penny Cedel Christian Leadership Initiative Scholarship Endowment

Virginia and Bill Beilharz Scholarship Endowment

W. E. and Fay Hemann Student Assistance Endowment

Walter & Paula Bielefeldt Ministerial Scholarship Endowment

Walter A. and Erna H. Mersiovsky Scholarship Endowment

Walter and Edna Schroeder Endowment

Wes & Puddin’ Krueger and Family Scholarship Endowment

William and Ernestine Haschke Scholarship Endowment

William H. & Loretta B. Smith Memorial Scholarship Endowment

Zielke Students of Promise

Zoch Family Scholarship Endowment

FOUNDATIONS & GIVING FUNDS

Austin Community Foundation

James Orlandini Foundation

Legacy Deo Lutheran Foundation of Texas

Lutheran Foundation of the Southwest

RecognizeGood

Senske Family Fund

Tarpey Charitable Lead Annuity Trust

The Neeb Family Foundation

Texas District Church Extension Fund

United Way

PRESIDENTS’ ALUMNI SOCIETY

Mr. Jim and Mrs. Deborah Albers

Ms. Kassandra Bills

Mr. Fred and Mrs. Candy Bleeke

Mr. Mark and Mrs. Carolyn Boerger

Mr. Robert Brown

Mr. Andrew Burns

Mr. Adam and Mrs. Michelle Case

Mr. Clay and Mrs. Michelle Cole

Rev. Martin and Dr. Sandy Doering

Mr. Ronald and Mrs. Kim Draeger

Rev. Harold and Mrs. Jean Fleischhauer

Mr. John and Mrs. Antoinette Griffin

Mr. Gary and Mrs. Brooke Grossman

Mr. Ben and Mrs. Margaret Harris

Mrs. Joyce Heckmann

Rev. Ralph and Mrs. Lynn Hobratschk

Mr. Kevin Hoppman

Mr. Glenn and Mrs. Mary Horn

Mr. Jake and Mrs. Lyndsay Irby

Mr. Steven and Mrs. Lisa Jahnke

Mr. Robert Jones

Mr. Curtis and Mrs. Karen Kelly

Mr. Marvin and Mrs. Margaret Kelm

Rev. John Kieschnick

Ms. Kassi Kincaid

Mr. Gary and Mrs. Carroll Knippa

Mr. John and Mrs. Marjorie Koehler

Mr. Glen and Mrs. Joyce Kokel

Mr. Michael and Mrs. Cathy Lacey

Mr. Paul and Mrs. Mary Larson

Mr. Scott and Mrs. Kelly Linebrink

Mr. Dave Martens

Mr. Steven and Mrs. Elizabeth Martens

Mr. Shawn Matthijetz

Mr. Brandon and Mrs. Kristin McMinn

Dr. Victor and Mrs. Beverley Michalk

Mr. Philip and Mrs. Sara Middleton

Mrs. Jolie and Mr. Tim Mittlestadt

Mr. Billy Moyer and Mrs. Ashley Alaniz-Moyer

Rev. Dr. Richard and Mrs. Paula Noack

Ms. Tracey Officer

Mr. Sai and Mrs. Hillary Pathi

Dr. Missy Pope

Mr. Ragan Pope

Rev. Mark and Mrs. Laura Pulliam

Mr. John Paul and Mrs. Skye Richardson

Mr. Brad and Mrs. Lisa Rosenhagen

Mr. Rick and Mrs. Becky Rosenhagen

Mr. Bruce† and Mrs. Carol Rudi

Mr. Brent Schaekel

Ms. Rebecca Schelen

Mr. Sam Stewart

Rev. Norman and Mrs. Cathy Stoppenhagen

Mr. Mike and Mrs. Karla Tate

Mr. Kyle and Mrs. Rachel Thoms

Mr. Brian and Mrs. Lisa Tuchenhagen

Mr. Tristan Tully

Mr. Ryan and Mrs. Meghan Ullmann

Rev. A. J. and Mrs. Kristen Vega

Mr. Stan and Mrs. Sandra Voelker

Mr. Barnabas and Mrs. Yolanda Willis

Rev. Bill and Mrs. Julie Woolsey

ALUMNI ASSOCIATION COUNCIL

Mrs. Kristin McMinn (Chair), Class of 2000

Mrs. Bettie Ann Bendewald, Class of 1956

Mrs. Michelle Bradshaw, Class of 2015

Mr. Dan Darden, Class of 2007

Mrs. Lisa Jahnke, Class of 1995

Mr. Jason McGee, Class of 2013

Ms. Rebecca Schelen, Class of 2021

Ms. Jessi Sternat, Class of 2018

Mr. Sam Stewart, Class of 2020

Mr. Greg Watson, Class of 1990

corrections on names and titles or any other

please contact philanthropy@concordia.edu or call (512) 313-4109.

CONCORDIA UNIVERSITY TEXAS

11400 Concordia University Drive Austin, TX 78726

CONTACT

512.313.3000

concordia.edu