Concordia St. Paul Magazine | Summer 2008

Summer 2008

Classroom to Boardroom Business pros use their Concordia education to ethically lead in the workplace

MACO Program Takes Root in Nigeria LCMS President Visits Campus The Tradition Lives On: Golden Bears vs. Minnesota Twins Summer | 2008

Concordia St. Paul

“Concordia St. Paul” magazine is published by the Office of University Advancement Concordia University 275 Syndicate Street North St. Paul, MN 55104-5494 www.csp.edu 651-641-8230 1-800-333-4705 Publisher Heather Riddle, Vice President for University Advancement Editor Lindsey Brown Contributing Writers Josh Deer ’04 ’06, Jen Foley, Jill Johnson MA ’03, Nathan Laible JD, Joshua Pehl ’09, Tim Sailer ’09, Melanie Vasterling ’08 Design and Layout Jennifer Stricker Photography Caroline Melberg, Greg Helgeson, Erol Reyal, Tim Salier ’09 Address changes should be directed to Sarah Erkkinen ’02 Director of Alumni Relations and Annual Fund Concordia University 275 Syndicate Street North St. Paul, MN 55104-5494 erkkinen@csp.edu Concordia University, St. Paul is a member of the Concordia University System, a national network of 10 colleges and universities of The Lutheran ChurchMissouri Synod. Concordia University, St. Paul admits students of any race, color and national or ethnic origin.

Mission Statement The mission of Concordia University, St. Paul, a University of The Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod, is to prepare students for thoughtful and informed living, for dedicated service to God and humanity and for the enlightened care of God’s creation, all within the context of the Christian Gospel.

Concordia St. Paul DEV-0308-014 © 2008 Concordia University St. Paul

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What’s Inside Letters

President’s Letter Letters to the Editor

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Meet seven successful business alumni who Concordia helped prepare to be ethical leaders. Learn about the College of Business and Organizational Leadership’s unwavering mission to create high-impact learning opportunities to prepare graduates for business challenges.

CSP News MACO Mission Not Bound by International Waters OHSCO Receives Support from Gen. John Vessey and Former CSP President Alan Harre CBOL and CVM Under New Leadership Choir Trip Teaches Unity Despite Cultural Differences

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Concordia Bestows Honorary Degrees

Sports Golden Bears Take A Swing At Minnesota Twins Winter and Spring Season Highlights Annual Fundraiser Honors Student-Athletes

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aseball Coach, Mark “Lunch” McKenzie, B Shares Life Lessons Learned on the Diamond

Faculty News Sabbaticals Support University Mission Faculty Notes Professor Keith Williams Named President of National Arts Organization

21 Alumni News Class Notes Where Faith and Learning Meet: Ryan Steffen ’05 Snapshot of Success: Adrian Perryman ’07

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L ooking Back, Moving Forward: MTEPS Graduates Reunite

St. Paul Society

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President’s Letter The cover story for this edition of “Concordia St. Paul” is about business leaders. For decades the business of Concordia almost exclusively was preparing pastors and church school teachers.

Some readers may not know that in the Lutheran theology and tradition, the founding educators envisioned a comprehensive curriculum preparing students for a variety of vocations. Pastoral and teaching graduates–like me–quickly learned the importance of knowledge and skill in business principles and methods even in church work.

for all of us. When asked what he was doing he replied, “I must be about my Father’s business.” I believe that, in the end, in our daily business we serve God. The business or vocation we conduct in our own personal lives here and now can praise God and have spiritual significance for ourselves and others. Concordia enriches its business programs by sharing Christian truths preparing students to engage in business transactions with honesty, integrity and respect for the welfare of others.

“Concordia enriches its business educational program by sharing Christian truths preparing students to engage in business transactions with honesty, integrity and respect for the welfare of others.”

For example, when my wife, Lynne, and I began careers in the church as missionaries in Papua New Guinea, I wanted to spend all my time exploring the rain forest to find where people lived, learning the Ipili language, discerning essentials of the culture and–to use today’s terms–planting churches. That left little time for accurate bookkeeping and accounting reports.

Fortunately, I was married to Lynne! She did the vitally important accounting and reporting. I appreciated her work and learned first-hand the essential role of good business practices. In church and society, good business practices are necessary and support worthy Christian vocations.

As president of Concordia, my vocation gains knowledge and support by contact with dedicated business leaders, many of them devout Christians.

They face not only marketing, accounting and profit/loss issues but also complicated ethical decisions. In our rapidly changing contemporary business world, new information, new technology, new forces of globalization and new factors based on demographic diversity, success in business demands innovative knowledge and skill but even more important loom honesty, integrity and trust. Maybe Jesus’ words set a business standard

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Many times area business people tell me they like to hire Concordia students or graduates for three simple reasons: their strong work ethic, good attitude and values. Shockingly simple! Yet business people tell me too many workers today lack such vital attitudes and attributes.

May the information about our business graduates in this issue help you understand the role we play in preparing students for dedicated service to God and humanity with vocations in the world of business. There are many more business graduates worthy of note than we can cover in one magazine but know that our graduates serve with distinction literally around the world in the business of church, commerce, mission, human aid, education and military service. I hope that you appreciate the information given and celebrate with us the quality and intent of our business programs. Thank you for your continued care and support of Concordia University, St. Paul, including our academic and Christian interest in business education.

In Christ,

President, Bob Holst

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Letters to the Editor Dear Lindsey,

Dear Rev. Dr. Kaden,

After reading the spring 2008 issue of the Concordia St. Paul magazine, I would like to make some observations and suggestions. On the basis of my experience as the former alumni paper editor and especially feedback from alumni at district and synodical conventions, professional meetings, and many personal conversations, I would like to offer a few thoughts for consideration.

These are also based on alumni publications from my three alma maters and many others I have seen.

The formal name of the magazine is “Concordia St. Paul.” It is a common practice among higher education institutions to name their magazine the name of their institution. In fact, my alma mater, Clarke College, just overhauled their alumni magazine and changed its name from “On Campus” to “Clarke.” Do readers think we should rename our magazine? I’m eager to hear thoughts from others!

Are we established well enough to have a name for this publication?

It seems a bit demeaning to simply call it “magazine” (without even a capital M). Check with the titles of similar publications from the other Concordias, especially Chicago, Seward, St. Louis, and others.

Even have a contest among our alumni for suggestions and a vote of our readers.

The first and best read section of our publication has always been alumni news which needs to include obituaries. Remember many of our alumni do not receive church or synodical publications of the LCMS, and many are members of other denominations. Obituaries in newspapers are public information, and there is nothing legally or morally wrong about putting such notices in our magazine (e.g.

Washington University in St. Louis). The spring issue had an emotionally powerful story and picture about Matt Woodford but Dick Nachtsheim was only mentioned in the class notes section.

Since his daughter Susan was a homecoming queen, that item had additional interest. Also, several more names should have been published.

Remember alumni identify strongly with students and faculty whom they knew while students. At reunions and other gatherings some alumni invariably inquire about former professors. Faculty notes in the magazine should also include accomplishments of retired faculty. More alumni know faculty members with 20 to 40 years service to CSP than those who have served just a few years. That doesn’t mean ignoring current faculty activities, but do consider your reading audience.

For example, in recent months, the In Memoriam column should have mentioned Rev. Dr. Willard Kehrberg, Psychology professor and registrar for over 10 years; Rev. Roger Hett ’62; Adeline Wagner Galchutt ’67; Dr. Marvin Wippich ’67 and others.

Please consider these observations so that CSP may continue to have an even better publication for our alumni and other friends of the institution.

Yours for a bigger and better university in serving the Lord and His people, Rev. Dr. Kenneth Kaden Prof. Emeritus and Concordia Alumni Council member

We strive to ensure that “Concordia St. Paul” has a broad mix of news about institutional activities, alumni accomplishments and activities of current and former faculty. I agree that many alumni enjoy hearing about professors they had as students here. Currently we publish all condolences and obituaries brought to our attention. They are condensed, if necessary, and placed in the class notes section. I welcome readers to submit updates regarding alumni and emeriti. You can write, e-mail me or submit items online on Concordia.Avenue.

Thanks for your letter and desire to see a publication more people can relate to and enjoy.

Lindsey Brown Editor, “Concordia St. Paul”

Dear Lindsey, You have outdone yourself. First, you are taking the magazine to places it hasn’t been before. Great job! Second, I’m immensely proud of Mike Conner ’05. The article “Alumnus Cooks Up Unique Career” in the spring 2008 issue really captured the real Mike, along with a number of his buzz phrases he really does say all the time! Mike is one of the most genuinely nice people I’ve ever met who holds firmly to his faith, ethical, family and life values. The article captured them all and very accurately. Hats off to you for a great magazine and great article; we’re blessed to have you at CSP. Scott Harr CSP Criminal Justice Institute Chair

*You can send a letter to the editor at brown@csp.edu or Lindsey Brown, Concordia University, St. Paul 275 Syndicate Street N., St. Paul, MN 55104.

We reserve the right to condense and print letters.

Correction: In the spring 2008 edition of “Concordia St. Paul,” on page 5 in the story “Chapel Cross Honors Young Alumnus,” Max Knoell’s name was spelled incorrectly. We regret this error.

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Cover Story

Classroom to Boardroom

With an education grounded in the Christian Gospel, Concordia students enter and progress in their careers prepared to serve as the compassionate, wise and ethical leaders so desperately needed in the world today. Meet business graduates Sengdara, Becky, Nick, Rollie, Bruce, Anna and Max—seven successful alumni Concordia helped prepare to be ethical leaders. Also hear from professor Dr. Richard Brynteson about the College of Business and Organizational Leadership’s unwavering mission to create high-impact learning opportunities to prepare graduates for any business challenge.

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Sengdara (Vannavong) Grue (M.A. ’08)

Becky Carlson ‘93 ’93 ’03

Occupation: Principle Associate, Medtronic’s Leadership Development Rotation Program

Occupation: Vice President of Customer and Patient Operations, Medtronic What she thought she’d be when she grew up: A Teacher

What she thought she’d be when she grew up: College Professor (still aspires to be one)

First job: In a nursing home kitchen

First job: At an answering service

Medtronic, Inc. is not only in the medical technology business, the global company is in the business of developing leaders. Master of Arts in Organizational Management graduates Becky Carlson (’93 ’03) and Sengdara (Vannavong) Grue (M.A. ’08) are shining examples. Carlson has worked her way to the top and Grue is well on her way.

Carlson began at Medtronic as an administrative assistant after she lost her secretarial job in the mining industry during the early 80s mining slump. It wasn’t long before Carlson realized her move up the corporate ladder was inhibited by one missing rung—her bachelor’s degree—so she obtained her degree in Organizational Management from Concordia. Seven years and many promotions later, Carlson returned to Concordia for her MAOM.

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Her academic credentials and a strong work ethic led to her current position as vice president for customer and patient operations.

She appreciates the interest former supervisors and those in human resources have taken in her development. “I’ve always felt that Medtronic lets me be me,” Carlson said. “The people I’ve worked with recognize that everyone has unique qualities and they build on those.”

Grue’s path to the top looks to be similar.

Grue completed her undergraduate degree and got her foot in the door at Medtronic in information technology. With a continued passion for learning, she earned her MAOM degree from Concordia.

In May, Grue moved to Memphis, Tenn. to begin Medtronic’s prestigious leadership development program. Annually, the program accepts a limited number of participants nationwide and includes two, one-year

assignments shadowing Medtronic senior leaders and two special projects. “They’re making a big investment in me,” Grue said, enthusiastic about the program’s outcome.

Both Carlson and Grue attribute their career satisfaction with their alignment to Medtronic’s mission.

“I have a commitment to the Medtronic mission, which is to alleviate pain, restore health and extend the lives of patients who can benefit from medical device therapies,” Grue said. For Carlson, there is commonality in her Christian upbringing and Medtronic’s values. “A lot of people at Medtronic are successful because they want to help people,” Carlson said. Whether it’s changing the life of a medical device recipient or assisting a colleague’s move into a role that meets his or her passion, helping people is at the heart of Medtronic’s mission.

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Nick Papachristou ’00 Photo by: Erol Reyal

Occupation: Executive Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer, Associated Bank First job: Madison Square Garden popcorn and soda vendor CSP Degree: B.A. in marketing

No matter what you do in life, one thing is inevitable—you’ll face challenges. For Nick Papachristou ’00, Associated Bank executive vice president and chief marketing officer, challenges are inherent in opportunity.

Obtaining his college degree certainly presented challenges. After spending a few years in college in his home state of New York, Papachristou was drawn to the Twin Cities by a few friends, the cost of living, and quality of life. His desire for career growth drew him to the cohort-delivered degree-completion program at Concordia.

“I would not have been able to further my career without my degree,” he said.

What really stands out in Papachristou’s mind about his Concordia experience is

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the empathy, understanding and support he received from faculty, specifically Dr. Richard Brynteson. “His personal commitment to the concept of the program and the group, and his ability to facilitate learning that was appropriate for working adults seeking to achieve something specific was just outstanding,” Papachristou said. “He was a good support and a good guide going through that.”

The opportunity for Papachristou to lead Associated Bank to gain market share in a saturated marketplace presents its challenges too. “It sounds simple but it’s a difficult task,” Papachristou said. Despite the competition, he knows opportunities are abundant. “I look at this company and I see huge unbridled potential,” Papachristou said.

Papachristou’s path to Associated Bank has led him to Milwaukee but he’s made stops in Boston, New York and Philadelphia along the way. He admitted moving his wife and two sons, age 7 and 10, has been challenging.

“My opportunities have always been good and everything has worked out, but moving is the hard part,” Papachristou said.

Despite all of the challenges Papachristou has faced, he points to a few things that have fueled his success. “It’s really about work ethic and the willingness to apply yourself and focus,” he said. “What I’ve achieved is also in large part due to my experience at Concordia.”

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Rollie Reis-Mather ’06 Occupation: Business Broker, Calhoun Companies First job out of high school: Clerical and customer service work for her dad’s TV and appliance store Favorite part about her job: Selling big ticket items

Entrepreneurship has been at the heart of every career move Rollie Reis-Mather ’06 has made since her early twenties. Reis-Mather has learned to thrive in a risky environment and now spends her time working as a business broker and volunteering to help others learn to thrive in the same environment.

At 22, Reis-Mather co-founded a glass blowing company, Goldenflow Studios, with her now husband, Dan Mather. Starting from Mather’s garage, they grew to a business that grossed $825,000 at its peak. Product quality, customer service and employee performance caused the common growing pains of start-up businesses, so they scaled back to a more manageable size. “It was challenging to learn the lessons of an entrepreneurship the hard way,” ReisMather said.

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Reis-Mather’s 17-year involvement in Goldenflow Studios taught her a thing or two about entrepreneurial challenges—­enough to entrust that venture solely to her husband, get her degree at Concordia, and move on to help others who share the same entrepreneurial spirit.

Reis-Mather started her B.A. degree at a large university only to find the program didn’t fit the lifestyle of a busy working professional.

Concordia was a better fit for Ries-Mather. “The way Concordia put together the adult education program shows their commitment to helping people achieve their goals,” Reis-Mather said.

The values-based education Reis-Mather received at Concordia, translated to her fulltime work at WomanVenture, a consulting company empowering women to find rewarding work. Her interest in entrepreneurship

blossomed in her role as a consultant, helping clients build business plans. “That’s where I learned to love entrepreneurship,” Reis-Mather said. “I was able to connect with clients and teach them using my experiences.” She continues to work with WomanVenture on a voluntary basis while her full-time work has evolved into helping businesses in a different fashion.

Reis-Mather is now employed at the business brokerage firm, Calhoun Companies. The sale of big ticket items, like the $2 million software company she listed, keeps her job exhilarating.

She said her position is still very entrepreneurial; seeking both business sellers and buyers and then connecting the two. Her ability to connect with people and draw from her own entrepreneurial experiences allows her to continue to thrive in the competitive business world.

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Bruce Nustad ’93 Occupation: President, TwinWest Chamber of Commerce First job: Internship with AgriBank, FCB How he first heard of Concordia: Fellow church member who knew Concordia offered B.A. in public policy

Bruce Nustad’s (’93) future is as big and bright as the 1980 powder-blue Buick Century station wagon he purchased from a faculty member when he was a Concordia student.

He ranks business professor Tom Hanson as one of his favorites, not just for selling him that reliable old “boat,” but for imparting many valuable lessons about practical management.

Nustad credits Concordia for giving him a foundation for understanding others, especially in the business world. Not unlike many Concordia students, Nustad said the culture and people in his small Minnesota hometown didn’t look much like Concordia.

“Concordia is in a nice little melting pot area

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that showed me there are a lot of different people in the world,” said the Winona native. “My Christian education taught me how to put myself in someone else’s shoes and respect their perspective.”

For Nustad, that lesson translated directly to the business world. His ability to take an inside look at a business and come up with ways to advance its agenda is what landed him the corner office at TwinWest, the state’s fourth largest, 1,000 member chamber of commerce.

Nustad took the post as president in March and set aggressive goals to immerse himself in the western suburb marketplace. He has

since discovered that regardless of whether someone is a business owner, school superintendent or government official, the desire for economic growth is evident. “The reason I wake up every day and go to work at the TwinWest is because the growth of business is vital to the growth of society,” Nustad said.

Even though that blue station wagon is no longer on the road, Nustad’s drive to succeed in the business world is as strong as ever.

“I believe it’s my job and my place in this world to try to help drive the success of businesses,” he said.

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Anna Leighton (M.A. ’08) Occupation: Executive Director, Faith’s Lodge What she thought she’d be when she grew up: Veterinarian First job out of college: Working for Easter Seals Nebraska, a nonprofit serving those with physical disabilities

Weekend cabin trips are commonplace for many Minnesotans, but for guests at Faith’s Lodge, they are a heaven-sent. Executive director Anna Leighton (M.A. ’08) coordinates the efforts to make getaways to Faith’s Lodge possible for families coping with a child’s serious illness or the loss of a child.

The Wisconsin nonprofit retreat center was developed by a couple who lost their daughter, Faith, in 2000. Following their loss, they realized the importance of having an affordable and appropriate place to escape and grieve together. Faith’s Lodge came to fruition in 2007. The yearround destination provides programming and fellowship for up to eight families.

Families from as far as Georgia and California have benefited from the one-ofa-kind North Woods experience.

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“It’s incredibly gratifying to bring families together in a cathartic and tranquil setting and help them find strength and hope for the future,” Leighton said. “Faith’s Lodge illustrates that everyone can benefit from the healing grace of nature and the companionship of those sharing similar experiences.”

Leighton strives to expand and enhance programming, while also raising funds to make the lodge accessible to families with financial need. Leighton says every day brings new challenges, as well as fulfillment.

“I wake up every morning and can’t wait to get to work,” she said. “I have the opportunity to positively impact people every day, which truly is the greatest gift. I am continually amazed by the power of the human spirit and how resilient individuals can be.”

Leighton said her M.A. degree in Organizational Management from Concordia was the perfect springboard for leading a nonprofit, which necessitates wearing many different hats. “As the executive director I need to be able to successfully oversee our finances, market the organization, and manage employees and volunteers,” Leighton said. “Concordia provided me with the tools necessary to manage all aspects of an organization in a compassionate manner.”

Leighton is grateful her degree did not impede on her other commitments and interests. “It was such a delightful experience, providing the flexibility necessary to volunteer, be involved in my church and work full-time, while pursuing a graduate degree.”

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Max Wipperman ’60 Occupation: Owner and President, G. Maxwell Collection Favorite part about Concordia: Chapel two times daily and the close Christian community Concordia extracurricular: Choir

Max Wipperman ’60 can’t imagine life outside the furniture industry. He grew up watching his father run a family furniture store in small town North Dakota. His father’s guidance showed Wipperman enough for him to own and operate his own upscale furniture showroom, G. Maxwell Collection, in Minneapolis’ International Market Square.

Wipperman graduated from Concordia Academy and Concordia Junior College, then returned to his home state to complete his four-year degree. He began working at the family’s furniture store and eventually bought the store and ran it for a number of years. In 1972, he sold it and made the Twin Cities home again. He continued to work in

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furniture retail but aspired to bigger things in the furniture industry. Together with business partner, Gordon Oberlander, he opened Gordon Maxwell, a wholesale fabric store in International Market Square.

compares IMS to a shopping center because shoppers are able to find everything for their homes in one location. “If you want to be successful in this business, you have to be where everyone is,” Wipperman said.

The operation has evolved since its 1985 inception into one that sells regionally exclusive furniture only to interior designers.

When that transition occurred, so did ownership. Wipperman took over as sole president and furniture buyer for the upscale, four-person operation and changed its name to G. Maxwell Collection.

Wipperman’s Christian education informs the way he does business. He said it taught him to be fiscally responsible and conservative in his dealings with people. He prides himself in providing customer service based on honesty. He also works hard to offer an excellent product and then stands behind it.

“Success is product-driven and then servicedriven,” Wipperman said. “We bend over backwards for customers and they tell us they appreciate it.”

G. Maxwell Collection is still located in IMS, the 70-plus showroom design center.

Wipperman said location is everything and

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Dr. Richard Brynteson Occupation: Professor of Organizational Management, Concordia University Years teaching at Concordia: 16 Opportunity Concordia has given him: “I’ve been able to be entrepreneurial here.”

Advice for business leaders: Be self-aware and ethical There is no doubt professor of Organizational Management Dr. Richard Brynteson has seen Concordia change since his 1992 arrival. As programs, students and technology change, the College of Business and Organizational Leadership’s mission to develop Christian business leaders remains the same.

Since joining Concordia, Brynteson developed the undergraduate Marketing and Human Resource majors. He ran both the B.A. and M.A. Organizational Management majors, and most recently helped start the Masters of Business Administration degree program.

Brynteson said Concordia’s type of student and methods of teaching have dramatically changed over time. His classrooms, once filled with baby-boomers, are now filled with

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millennials who demand a different delivery method. “The world has changed in my years here and I’ve had to change,” Brynteson said.

“I’ve changed from information disseminator to knowledge connector,” he said.

Technology has changed along with the students. Brynteson didn’t have a laptop when he started and the internet was still a far-fetched idea. Now, his assignments are reliant on the web and he teaches many online classes.

Just as things have changed for Brynteson, so will the workplace for his graduates. “I tell them any content I give them will be obsolete in six years,” he said. “But the questions that need to be asked are what survive over time.

So, I teach them what the questions are, not the answers.”

“I’m a Christian and my values system comes through when I teach,” he said. Honesty and being environmentally conscious are important values Brynteson passes on. In Brynteson’s mind, self-awareness is the key to being a successful leader. “If you know yourself, you know your strengths, you can lead with them,” he said. “If you know your weaknesses, you can work to fix those things and you can get people around you that fill in where you’re lacking.”

Despite changes in the teaching environment, Brynteson said one thing remains the same— the people. “My students and my colleagues are wonderful,” he said. “Yes, higher education is an idea business, but it’s a people business too.”

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CSP News

MACO Mission Not Bound by International Waters

Nigerian missionary and Concordia professor, Rev. Dr. David Erber, teaches a class to the Nigerian cohort.

Concordia and the Oswald Hoffmann School of Christian Outreach are living out their mission of sharing God’s word through the M.A. in Christian Outreach program in its first overseas context. In January, director of the MACO program Rev. Dr. Eugene Bunkowske and OHSCO director Rev. Dr. Mark Press joined Nigerian missionary, Rev. Dr. David Erber in Obot Idim, Nigeria, to launch the program.

Eighteen pastors and one elder from Nigeria and Liberia began their three-year coursework. Course delivery will be a blend of distance education and in-class teaching.

Bunkowske said that as economies and cultures become more globalized, the desire to deliver the program grows.

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“Our students have the potential and need for understanding people with different first languages, ways of life and perceptions of reality,” said Bunkowske. He said this is not only true for those in business, but also for those sharing the ideas of God’s revealed mission. Professors say the program is helping students change their way of functioning as pastors and teaching them to take initiative in outreach.

Professors are finding they are benefiting too. “A program like this is putting us in touch with other ways of thinking,” Bunkowske said. “It also helps us fully prepare our students at Concordia to function in other parts of the world that have different ways of living.”

The MACO program has been transformed to feature more online offerings providing an opportunity for more interested students to participate. The change more closely aligns MACO with Concordia’s other M.A. programs.

The program now calls for one two-week residency at the start of the program, after which all other courses will be taught online.

Students complete the program with a one-week residency, during which they will complete graduation requirements. The changes enable students to complete the program in 22 months.

For more information about MACO, contact Norm Piatti, MACO coordinator, at 651-641-8224, or Gene Bunkowske, director of MACO, at 651-603-6252.

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CSP News

Former University President Accepts OHSCO Advisory Council Position Former Concordia president, Dr. Alan F. Harre, accepted a position on the Advisory Council for the Oswald Hoffmann School of Christian Outreach (OHSCO). Harre served as University president from 1984-1988 and served as Valparaiso University president until his retirement at the end of the 20072008 academic year.

“The OHSCO team has been working to strengthen our Advisory Council as we seek to impact the church at large,” Press said. “We thank God for Dr. Harre’s willingness to join the Council.

His presence adds another important and influential voice to a group that is growing in its connectedness to OHSCO’s mission.”

The OHSCO Advisory Council offers a fresh perspective on the issues, opportunities, and challenges that face OHSCO. Each member serves a threeyear term and is an important source of guidance and support for OHSCO director, Rev. Dr. Mark Press.

Other Council members include Mary Kay Bensen, Bernice Bunkowske, Larry and Jeanette Degner, Michael and Ruth Flynn, Darlene Johnson, Roy Kramer, Dick and Judy Lindemeier, Rev. Peter Meier, Steve Peterson, Faith Rattei, Orvil and Arlis Roetman, and Rev. Dr. Milton Rudnick.

General John Vessey Supports OHSCO Mission

The Oswald Hoffmann School of Christian Outreach sponsored its annual OHSCO Partners Dinner, themed “Building Outreach on Ossie’s Legacy,” on Friday, April 18 at The Machine Shed restaurant in Woodbury. Over 100 OHSCO supporters and people from the campus community listened to main speaker, General John Vessey, former chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff under President Ronald Reagan. Vessey spoke about building outreach based on Oswald Hoffman’s legacy. He shared sentiments of his relationship with Hoffman and how he encouraged him in his Christian walk. Vessey supports Ossie’s legacy through financial support of OHSCO. General John Vessey is pictured (center) with OHSCO staff (left to right) Melanie Vasterling, OHSCO director Rev. Dr. Mark Press, M.A. in Christian Outreach chair Dr. Gene Bunkowske and MACO coordinator Norm Piatti.

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New University Chaplain Named spiritual journeys. “I want to create a campus ministry that welcomes students wherever they are in their spiritual journey,” Arnold said, “and facilitate their journey with Lutheran integrity.”

Dr. Steve Arnold assumed the role of University chaplain on June 1. Arnold has ambitious goals to transform the ministry into one that is cutting edge and exemplary. He plans to interview various campus constituents to uncover ways the ministry can serve more than just students.

Arnold said campus ministry is dealing with a diverse group of people who have even more diverse

Arnold will draw on his appreciation for young adults.

“I love the freshness and creativity they bring to the table,” Arnold said. Help will come from the new Campus Ministry associate Billy Schultz ’08.

Prior to Arnold’s role as chaplain, he served as dean of the College of Vocation and Ministry for six years and directed the Director of Christian Education program.

Arnold has been serving the University since 1986.

Concordia and Center for Hmong Studies Host International Conference The Center for Hmong Studies hosted the second biennial International Conference on Hmong Studies, April 11-13 on Concordia’s campus.

The conference, themed “Honoring the Past, Interpreting the Present, and Enriching the Future,” featured presentations by Hmong scholars on topics related to Hmong culture, history and scholarship. The event attracted nearly 500 visitors from around the world.

The Thursday night book launch for “The Latehomecomer” by poet and author Kao Kalia Yang drew over 200 people. A conference reception on Friday, April 11

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officially kicked off the event.

Scholarly presentations were held on Saturday, April 12 and Sunday, April 13. The conference wrapped up with a presentation by The Center for Hmong Studies’ Eagle Award winner, world renowned anthropologist, Dr. Jacques Lemoine of Thailand. This award is given to scholars who have made significant contributions to the field of Hmong studies by their engagement in scholarly publications, teaching, research and community services– applying their research knowledge for the betterment of the Hmong community and the field.

New Leadership : College of Vocation and Ministry and College of Business and Organizational Leadership Rev. Dr. David Lumpp, professor and chair of the department of Theology, has been named dean for the College of Vocation and Ministry. He has been a faculty member at Concordia for 18 years, serving as department chair for the past 11 years, and most recently as interim dean. “Dr. Lumpp is a gifted scholar who will contribute a high level of theological, academic and professional awareness,” said vice president for Academic Affairs Rev. Dr. Bob DeWerff.

“He has earned the trust of faculty and administrative colleagues. I have great respect for his insights and opinions and know that he will be a strong advocate for his college and the entire University.” Lumpp’s undergraduate work was completed at Concordia Senior College, Ft. Wayne, Ind. and he received his M.Div., S.T.M. and Th.D. from Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, Mo. Dr. Robert DeGregorio, former dean of the College of Business and Organizational Leadership (CBOL), accepted a new position as vice president for Essilor Laboratories, the world’s largest manufacturer of corrective lenses, where he leads the organization’s upper Midwest operations.

DeGregorio started his new job in April after serving Concordia since September 2006, helping guide the formation of the College of Business and Organizational Leadership and lead the college’s launch of its MBA program. “I have appreciated the opportunity to serve as the dean of CBOL and have enjoyed working with an outstanding group of faculty,” DeGregorio said. Professor of Economics Dr. Bruce Corrie replaced DeGregorio as CBOL dean. Corrie has a Ph.D. in economics from the University of Notre Dame and has taught at Concordia since 1987.

“It is an honor to lead a group of very talented people in the College of Business and Organizational Leadership,” Corrie said. “Concordia plays an important role educating the next generation of leaders who will be good stewards of our precious resources of people, organizations and the environment.” Professor of Marketing Management Craig Lien will join forces with Corrie and serve as associate dean for cohort-delivered programs.

Summer | 2008

CSP News

Choir Trip Teaches Unity

Story and photos by Tim Sailer ’09, Christus Chorus member

For Christus Chorus members, memories and lessons learned on our 16-day trip to Ghana will last a lifetime. Traveling throughout the cities of Accra, Cape Coast, Kumasi and a few small villages, we experienced an intense and unique blend of worship, travel, singing, service, and sight-seeing.

We departed on May 11. After fourteen hours in the air, we landed and were greeted by a large red, green and yellow sign that said, “AKWAABA,” meaning welcome. We were welcomed throughout Ghana with smiles and clapping.

Children would run up to the bus, pointing to us and shouting. The greetings and love poured throughout the country, particularly in the churches where we worshiped and performed.

Our first concert was at St. John’s Lutheran School in Accra where we performed with four other choirs. As with all concert and church services we attended, the concert concluded with offering. It was quite different from the “hurry-up-and-pass-the-plate” form many of our state-side churches subscribe to. There, everyone dances up to the basket and drops their hand— whether they have something to give or not.

“The idea is that we dance before our Lord giving our whole bodies in worship,” said Greta Schulz, sophomore choir member. “It would sometimes last 45 minutes, but it never felt that way...it was an amazing feeling of pure joy that just made you want to get up and move.”

Summer | 2008

We did and saw a variety of things. One morning we had breakfast next to crocodiles and the next afternoon we were swinging 150 feet in the air amidst a rainforest canopy. Christus members Natalie Cochrane and Kelli Jensen claimed to have seen a small monkey. We were able to spend time with CSP choir alumnus and tour coordinator, James Corey ’05, and his wife, Audrey Addaquay-Corey, who grew up in Ghana and served as our tour nurse.

Throughout the tour, our patience was tried, but the choir remained vigilant. In Africa, events rarely start on time. Eating in restaurants can take a couple hours and church services last at least three hours. Dr. David Mennicke, choir director and music department chair, indoctrinated a “go with the flow” mind-set.

We returned from Africa’s gold coast on May 27—complete with sunburns, bug bites, djembes (hand drums), perhaps some indigestion, and countless photos and memories. Among our most important mementos was the realization that no matter the cultural differences, there is an overwhelming unity we have as saved children of God. Photos top right to bottom left: Choir member Shelly Schwalm and her puppet make friends with village children. The city of Elmina, where the choir toured a Dutch slave castle. Greta Schulz ’10 walking on the Kakum National Forest canopy walk. Choir members learn the intricacies of African drumming. Christus Chorus in concert at the Wesleyan Cathedral in Cape Coast, Ghana.

Concordia St. Paul

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Concordia Bestows Honorary Degrees Dr. Gary Yia Lee- Doctor of Letters

Dr. Gary Yia Lee

David Walsh

James C. Kielsmeier

Dr. Gary Yia Lee taught social welfare history, social services, gender studies, social policy and philosophy at the college level from 1974 to 1987. From 1987 to 2000, Lee was an officer for the Ethnic Affairs Commission of New South Wales. He has served in various positions for the Lao Studies Society and is the founding president of the Lao Students Association in Australia. Lee has published many of his writings about the Hmong. Aside from research and teaching, some of Lee’s professional interests include community studies and development, conflict resolution, migration and cultural innovation, youth welfare, bilingual education, welfare sociology, oral history, and social theory.

He received his B.A. and M.A. in social work from University of New South Wales and his Ph.D. in social anthropology in 1980 from University of Sydney. Concordia honored Dr. Lee with the Eagle Award in 2006 for his lifetime contribution to Hmong studies. Lee serves as a scholar-in-residence in the Center for Hmong Studies at Concordia University, St. Paul.

David Walsh, Ph.D. - Doctor of Humane Letters David Walsh, Ph.D. has emerged as one of the world’s leading authorities on parenting and the impact of media on children’s health and development.

He spent 10 years teaching and coaching high school students before joining Fairview Health Services in Minneapolis to develop and direct innovative counseling programs

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for youth and families. In 1995, he founded and still serves as president of the internationally renowned National Institute on Media and the Family providing parents, teachers, and other adults information about media through education, research, and advocacy.

He has authored nine books, including the national best seller “Why Do They Act That Way? A Survival Guide to the Adolescent Brain for You and Your Teen.” Walsh has authored columns on numerous topics, including Internet addiction and the dangers of MySpace.com. His columns have appeared in newspapers nationwide, including the Washington Post. Walsh has appeared on NBC’s Today Show, Good Morning America, The CBS Early Show, The News Hour with Jim Lehrer, Dateline NBC, ABC’s 20/20, National Public Radio’s All Things Considered and Morning Edition, and has been featured on three nationally broadcast PBS specials.

Walsh is a licensed psychologist in the State of Minnesota, a faculty member at the University of Minnesota and is active in many professional associations.

He received his B.A. from Mt. Carmel College, his M.A. from the University of St. Thomas, St. Paul, and his Ph.D. in educational psychology from the University of Minnesota. He and his wife Monica live in Minneapolis and have three adult children.

James C. Kielsmeier- Doctor of Laws

Kielsmeier has committed his life to transforming the roles of young people in society. Kielsmeier has been engaged in the design and implementation of comprehensive state and federal youth service and service-learning models since 1984. He has advised three Minnesota governors, helped U.S. Senator Dave Durenberger write the 1990 National Community Service Act, advised the Clinton Administration’s transition team on AmeriCorps, and testified before the Minnesota House and Senate and the U.S. House of Representatives.

Kielsmeier also helped initiate the nonprofit African Reconciliation and Development Corps International, and led its first project in Somalia during the civil war in 1993.

Kielsmeier’s work is rooted in his time as a youth worker in Harlem, a U.S. Army Infantry platoon leader and community relations officer in Korea, a middle and high school teacher in Washington D.C., and an Outward Bound instructor in Colorado and at Dartmouth College in Hanover, NH. Kielsmeier is an adjunct professor at the University of Minnesota, where he founded the Center for Experiential Education and Service-Learning. He holds a Ph.D. in education from the University of Colorado, a M.A. in international relations from American University in Washington, D.C., and a B.A. in zoology from Wheaton College, Wheaton, Ill. Kielsmeier is married to Rev. Deborah Eng Kielsmeier and is the father of three daughters.

National Youth Leadership Council founder, president and CEO James C.

Summer | 2008

CSP News

Quiche with Kieschnick Embracing outreach to non-Christians worldwide and immigrant populations in our backyards is what Lutheran Church Missouri Synod president, Rev. Dr. Gerald Kieschnick, outlined as vital initiatives for the LCMS. Kieschnick delivered this message to more than 140 guests gathered at Concordia on May 10 for the “Quiche with Kieschnick” brunch event. It was a unique opportunity for fellowship, dialogue and nourishment.

President Kieschnick shared a number of personal reflections on his family, his varied career, and especially his ministry as Synod president. He invited his spouse, Terry, on stage and related wonderful stories about their strong partnership, including sacrifices endured along the way, which allowed him to fulfill his ministry. He also fielded questions from the attendees as President Holst moderated a question and answer session. He addressed some of the challenges faced by the LCMS and some of the bold initiatives planned to meet those challenges. Kieschnick commended Concordia for its emphasis on both serving and witnessing to the local multicultural and immigrant community.

The evening prior to the brunch event, president Kieschnick presented a commencement address to the class of 2008 undergraduates. Concordia was honored to have the serving Synod president play such an active role in celebrating and sending new graduates at the culmination of their University experience.

Golden Reunion

The Academy class of ’56 and Junior College class of ’58 reunited on campus in May. Attendees wore golden robes and led the class of 2008 into their commencement on Friday, May 9. For more photos from the three-day event, visit ave.csp.edu.

Summer | 2008

Concordia St. Paul

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CSP Sports

Gather with all your ol’ Concordia football buddies!

Concordia is hosting an all-alumni football reunion during homecoming weekend.

Mark your calendar for

Saturday, Sept. 27.

Golden Bears Take A Swing At Minnesota Twins Not many college baseball programs get the opportunity to take the field against a professional team. But a Minnesota contest, Minnesota Twins vs. Golden Bears, has been an annual tradition since 2003 and takes place during the Twins February spring training in Fort Meyers, Fla. This year’s match-up resulted in a 7-5 victory for the Twins after the Golden Bears held the lead in the 6th inning. Concordia head baseball coach Mark “Lunch” McKenzie said the Twins take grief for playing a Division II team, especially when the Bears make them earn the win. Newspaper articles of Concordia defeating the Twins 6-1 in 2005 grace the walls of McKenzie’s office.

McKenzie and assistant Jimmy Wiesner’s longstanding relationship with the Twins got Concordia’s foot in the door and Golden Bear Billy Mauer’s (’04) younger brother, Twins’ catcher Joe Mauer, helped cement the tradition.

Many players and parents have been moved to tears by the experience. Concordia second baseman, Jacob Waldman ’08, is one who values the opportunity. “It truly is a great gift the Twins give us,” Waldman said.

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Concordia pitcher Kirk Ingram ’09 said picking Denard Span off of first base this year was the most memorable part of the experience. Ingram was even able to capture a few playing tips from Twins’ former manager, Tom Kelly; current manager, Ron Gardenhire; and pitching coach, Rick Anderson. “It was the chance of a lifetime,” Ingram said.

McKenzie admits the experience has been phenomenal for him too. “Coaching in a major league stadium against a major league team—it feels pretty darn good,” he said. “I’m happy that the Twins have allowed us to provide this opportunity.”

McKenzie said the 2008-2009 academic calendar may not allow for the Florida trip to coincide with the Twins 2009 spring training. “It’s been a great run,” McKenzie said. “I’m happy that we’ve been able to provide our players and entire Concordia community this opportunity over the past six years.”

2003 match-up pictured top to bottom: Concordia head coach Mark McKenzie with Twins’ manager Ron Gardenhire. Golden Bears enjoy the lighthearted exhibition game against the Twins. Brothers Billy Mauer and Joe Mauer.

Golden Bears pitcher attempts to pick off Twins first base runner.

Summer | 2008

CSP Sports

Winter and Spring Highlights Women’s Basketball

Baseball

The Golden Bears women’s basketball team finished the year 28-3 (16-2 NSIC). The 28 wins ties the 2003-04 team with the most season wins. The team won back-to-back NSIC regular season and tournament titles. They qualified for the NCAA tournament for the 6th straight season. Concordia started the season 18-0, which was the best in school history and the longest winning streak. The team’s 77.6 point per game scoring average was good for 1st in the NSIC and 10th in the nation. They also finished 4th in the nation in three point field goal percentage, making 40.5 percent. Among many individual NSIC honors, Paul Fessler was named NSIC Coach of the Year.

The baseball team made an appearance at the NCAA tournament—a first for men’s athletics. The team won the NSIC tournament championship earning the automatic bid to the NCAA Central Regional Tournament and eventually the NCAA tournament. They finished the season 27-16 for their fourth straight winning season and second NSIC title (2003 co-champions). Four players earned all-region honors, led by 1st team selection Brenden Furrow (Johnston, Iowa). Five players earned 1st team all-NSIC honors led by NSIC Newcomer of the Year Joe Abellera (Minnetonka, Minn.).

Jake Schmidt (Oakdale, Minn.), three-time NSIC Pitcher of the Week, shattered the school’s strikeout record with 100, beating Dave Johnson’s 1995 record of 78.

Men’s Basketball

The men’s basketball team finished the season 1612 (10-8 NSIC). They finished 4th in the NSIC and earned the right to host Wayne State in the first round of the NSIC tournament. The Wildcats ended the Golden Bears’ season with a 75-72 overtime win. The Golden Bears started the season winning six out seven games; however, over the stretch of their next 10 games, the Bears recorded only three victories. One of those victories was a 61-57 win over then #14 St. Cloud State. The Bears rebounded winning six of their final eight games including winning the final two at home.

Craig Heiman (Marshall, Wis.) and James Metcalf (Killeen, Texas) captured all-NSIC honors.

Men’s and Women’s Golf

The golf program achieved a first in 2007-08 by sending a male and female golfer to the NCAA regional in the same year. Jacquelyn Hauser (Caledonia, Minn.) became the third female to compete at the regional while helping the team finish second at the NSIC championships. Kyle Lewis (Forest Lake, Minn.) became the first golfer in men’s program history to advance to an NCAA regional. As a team, the men finished 4th at the NSIC championships.

Indoor and Outdoor Track and Field

The indoor men’s and women’s track and field team set eight school records this season. Junior

Kawaskii Bacon (Minneapolis, Minn.) and sophomore Katie Johnson (Anoka, Minn.) earned NSIC track athlete of the week during the indoor season. Both provisionally qualified for NCAA national meet, along with junior Tre Sayles (Woodbury, Minn.), but all three just missed making the meet field. The teams finished 7th on the women’s side and 5th on the men’s side at the NSIC conference tournament in Bemidji. Several athletes received all conference recognition. The men’s and women’s outdoor track and field team established nine school records during the season. Bacon defended his NSIC titles in the 100m and 200m dashes, while Sayles won the NSIC high jump title and Johnson took home the long jump crown. The women’s team finished 7th and the men’s finished 5th at the NSIC conference tournament.

Softball

The team finished its season with a 27-22 (117 NSIC) record. Sophomore Abby Brundidge (Neekoosa, Wis.) became the third player in school history to earn all-region honors by the NFCA. She also earned all-NSIC honors.

Sophomore Anna Bjorlin (Hermantown, Minn.), junior Natalie Mast (Oakdale, Minn.) and freshman Sami Mattson (Esko, Minn.) also made 1st team, while Stephanie Schmikla (Madison, Wis.) was an honorable mention selection. Mast also set the school record for stolen bases in a season (43) and career (80).

Annual Fundraiser Honors Student-Athletes The Concordia athletic department held its fourth annual Put Me In Coach banquet in April with a record number of attendees including former athletes and administrators, current coaches, athletic staff, professors and administrators and parents of student-athletes.

The event recognized the “Top Four” student-athletes at Concordia and serves as an athletics fundraiser. The 2008 honorees were chosen from 53 nominees and recognized for their on and off-field contributions to the University and community.

The 2008 Top Four were: Michael Brooks ’08 (football), Kirk Ingram ’09 (baseball), Katie LaViolette ’08 (women’s basketball) and Shae Wallin ’08 (track and field/cross country).

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Raffle drawings and a silent and live auction were held. Airline tickets, a Nintendo Wii and professional photography sessions were among some of the raffle items. The auction items included a week-long stay at a Lake Geneva, Wis. condo, an autographed and professionally framed Joe Mauer jersey and an autographed Adrian Peterson football.

Food and beverages were provided by athletic sponsors Famous Dave’s, Jimmy Johns, Davanni’s, Green Mill, That’s Amore and Bennett’s Chop and Rail House.

The athletic department would like to thank all attendees and invite others who are interested to next year’s event. Watch for 2009 Put Me In Coach information in upcoming issues of “Concordia St. Paul.”

Summer | St. 2008Paul Concordia

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CSP Sports

Coach Shares Life Lessons Learned on the Diamond

“About two things got me by—my faith and the lessons I learned at the ballpark.”

For Concordia head baseball coach Mark “Lunch” McKenzie, lessons learned watching from the Minnesota Twins visitors’ clubhouse helped him survive some of life’s toughest curveballs. In nine seasons as Concordia’s head baseball coach, McKenzie has tried to pass these lessons along to his players.

One of the toughest lessons that translated from the field to life was the will to persevere. Carrying on after the heartbreaking loss of his 21-month-old daughter, Jackie, to a rare form of influenza was a lesson in faith. “About two things got me by—my faith and the lessons I learned at the ballpark,” said McKenzie “It’s a game of perseverance.”

Forty years working in the Twins visitors’ clubhouse provided McKenzie insights into human nature that have made him a better coach. “I’ve seen the best and worst of players, managers, and coaches in the game,” McKenzie said. “It doesn’t matter what sport it is—it’s about people managing people in pressure situations.”

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To alleviate pressure situations, McKenzie has developed a few “Golden Rules” for his teams. First: “preparation and anticipation lead to execution.” McKenzie emphasizes that working hard will reap rewards—on the field and in the classroom. Second: “players should play and coaches should coach.” McKenzie encourages players to work hard and do their job to the best of their ability while he promises to do the same. Third: “shut up and play.” McKenzie exhorts his players to stay focused on the prize, whether that means a diploma or grand slam. When something goes wrong, McKenzie asks his players which rule was broken. “100% of the time it falls under one of these three rules,” he said.

McKenzie feels fortunate to be able to pass along the lessons he learned in the ballpark to his teams. “In coaching, you get a chance to teach kids about life through a game,” McKenzie said. “I can’t think of a more rewarding thing.”

Summer | 2008

Faculty News

Faculty News

Sabbaticals Support University Mission Concordia employees have and continue to participate in activities that support and enhance the mission of the University. Four faculty members will take sabbatical leaves during the 2008-2009 academic year to further their education. Faculty include professor of Communication Studies Dr. Lori Charron, professor of management and law Thomas Hanson, JD, vice president for Student Services Dr. Miriam Luebke, and professor of History Dr. Thomas Saylor.

Dr. Lori Charron is spending her sabbatical researching three areas of professional interest: interpersonal communication, corporate ethics and communication education. Charron’s research began in mid-May and will examine the impact interpersonal communication training has on corporate culture. Charron is following participants of the training created by Susan Scott that is based on her book, “Fierce Conversations: Achieving Success at Work & in Life, One Conversation at a Time.” This training, Fierce!, is an interpersonal communication corporate training program. Its fundamental belief is that organizations are successful “one conversation at a time” (www.fierceinc.com).

Her longitudinal research will follow the participants as the training will be brought to the participant’s individual school district or state department.

The research will encompass individual, team and organizational impact.

Thomas Hanson, JD is spending his six-month sabbatical becoming a Certified Christian Conciliator™ so he can provide consulting, conflict coaching, mediation, arbitration, case administration and intervention services within the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod. His training will be conducted in various parts of the country by Peacemaker® Ministries, an international ministry that equips Lutherans and their churches for living, proclaiming, and cultivating lifestyles of reconciliation. As part of the training process, Hanson will provide supervised congregation reconciliation for at least five churches and then five more unsupervised reconciliations. He will need to complete 20 hours of continuing education each year after the certification. Post-certification, Hanson can be called upon by LCMS congregations when conflict resolution services are needed.

Summer | 2008

“During my sabbatical the biblical based, advanced, specialized training and work with congregations will help me bring an enlightened view of how to handle disputes to my students,” said Hanson.

Dr. Miriam Luebke will research higher education’s best and most current practices for the improved retention of students. She will study factors contributing to attrition and retention specifically at Concordia. With her research through books, articles and conferences, she will develop a plan for student retention at Concordia that fits the mission and goals focusing on the first-year and transfer experience as well as academic and financial support. When she returns from her six-month sabbatical in June 2009, she will purpose the plan for possible implementation by the University.

Dr. Thomas Saylor is spending much of the 2008-09 academic year in Germany, conducting interviews of East Germans regarding their lives before, during and after the 1989 fall of the Berlin Wall. He has an appointment as a research fellow at the Berlin Program for Advanced German and European Studies at the Free University, Berlin. Saylor is capturing citizens’ thoughts and experiences regarding the large-scale economic and social transformations since the unification of Germany.

Saylor lived and worked in Germany prior to, during and after the Wall’s fall and is connecting with former colleagues and friends. “I watched as they made the sometimes painful adjustment to a capitalist society—or sometimes weren’t able to,” Saylor said.

“Even then I wondered: what’s going to happen to these people? Where will they be in 20 years time?”

His sabbatical will discover what he wondered 20 years ago.

Dr. Thomas Saylor

Dr. Miriam Luebke

Thomas Hanson, JD

Saylor’s goal is to bring these experiences to an English-speaking audience because, as he explains, “many people forgot about Germany, once the events of 1989 and 1990 faded. But for the people living there, the fall of the Berlin Wall and German reunification in 1990 was just the beginning of the story—not the end.”

This project is similar to two other oral history projects Saylor founded and coordinated that resulted in book publications: “Remembering the Good War” (2005) and “Long Hard Road: American POWs During World War II” (2007).

Concordia St. Paul

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Faculty News

Faculty Notes College of Vocation and Ministry professor Dr. Steven Arnold presented at a retreat at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Plainview, Minn.

The retreat focused on demographic and cultural trends that would impact the ministry of the church and provided an opportunity for leaders to develop a strategic response.

Dr. Paul Dona and College of Education instructor Sally Baas presented joint work done with the Intercultural Developmental Inventory.

The work was based on Milton Bennett’s Developmental Model of Intercultural Sensitivity with undergraduates at Concordia University and at University of Minnesota, Mankato.

College of Business and Organizational Leadership term faculty Dr. Thomas Berkas presented major findings of his July 2007 study and visit to Anosy, Madagascar for the Integrated Village Development Project.

Dr. Steve Arnold

Sally Baas

Organizational Management and Leadership Professor Dr. Richard Brynteson was the featured author in the “Executive Read” column in the Sunday, March 16, issue of the “Pioneer Press.” Pamela Nelson, president of Minneapolis-based Nelson Success Group Inc., recommended Brynteson’s book, “Once Upon a Complex Time,” as a must-read for executives and managers seeking to wipe out the “silo” phenomenon in their organizations.

Dr. George Guidera, associate professor of Education spent his fall 2007 sabbatical as a faculty fellow with the National Education Association’s Government Relations office in Washington D.C. Guidera partnered with NEA staff to support and research their

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positions within the federal sphere of decision making. He participated in research, lobbying, strategic planning, and listened to state and local constituents. Guidera said his sabbatical was a wonderful opportunity for him professionally and personally. “This will enrich my teaching and research efforts,” Guidera said. “It was an exciting opportunity to recharge my own energy and broaden my understandings from a very different perspective.”

History professor Dr. Paul Hillmer was the commentator for a three-minute live segment that aired on Al Jazeera TV. The network was airing a week-long series on Hmong resistance fighters still living in the jungles of Laos. It was prepared by correspondent Tony Birtly, who had traveled into the jungles of Laos and held captive by local resistance fighters hoping to leverage him to buy their freed or garner political/media exposure. Hillmer was on hand to explain the historical context for the struggle that seemed

Dr. David Bredehoft

who passed away on February 18, 2008. He is survived by his wife, Mildred, and children Kent, Daniel and Noelle.

Vice president for Student Services Dr. Miriam Luebke, College of Arts and Sciences dean Dr. Amy Gort, assistant professor of Biology Dr. Shellie Kieke, and assistant professor of Teacher Education Dr. Karen Moroz presented “From Isolative to Collaborative: Assessing Student Learning Using Rubrics and Technologies” at the Higher Learning Commission’s 113th annual meeting in Chicago.

Rev. Dr. David Lumpp, dean of the College of Vocation and Ministry, has been selected to the prestigious Thrivent Fellows Program for 2008-09. The Thrivent Fellows Program is intended to identify, encourage, develop and equip qualified individuals for leadership positions in Lutheran colleges, universities and seminaries.

Participants are selected based on their dedication

Dr. Richard Brynteson

long over for many people but still continues for a small group of resistance fighters in Laos.

College of Arts and Sciences professor Dr. John Eggeret published “When You Woke that Thursday Morning,” for SATB choir, organ and flute and “No Saint on Earth Lives Life to Self Alone,” for SATB Choir and viola through Concordia Publishing House. Eggeret also published “Fanfare,” for Brass and Timpani through Brassworks4 Publishing.

The Board of Regents granted permanent tenure to the chair of the Criminal Justice Institute Scott Harr, JD. The Concordia community mourns with the family of professor emeritus Willard Kehrberg

Dr. Amy Gort

to the mission and distinctiveness of Lutheran higher education, a strong record of service to academic institutions, a clear potential for toplevel leadership, as well as a vocational call to lead these important institutions. Through intensive retreats and seminars, associates gain increased knowledge and understanding of Lutheran traditions and values, stronger awareness of their own leadership capacities, thorough knowledge of key management issues in Lutheran higher education, discernment of personal and professional goals that will equip them to fulfill their callings, a plan for professional growth, and an expanded network of relationships with other Lutheran education leaders. Previous faculty and Thrivent Fellows include Dr. Cheryl Chatman, Dr. Alan Winegarden and Dr. Amy Gort.

Summer | 2008

Faculty News

College of Education assistant professor Dr. Angela Nippert presented “Increasing Faculty Motivation Through Interdisciplinary Professional Learning Communities” at a Kansas State University sponsored conference entitled “Defining Leadership: Engaging Academic Communities for Success.” The conference was held in Orlando, Fla. College of Vocation and Ministry assistant professor Rev. Dr. Mark Press traveled to Nigeria to help establish the first cohort of MACO students there. See page 6 for full story.

College of Business and Organizational Leadership instructor Dr. Carol Rinkoff presented on generational diversity in the workplace for Minnesota Women in Marketing & Communications. The meeting topic was “When Baby Boomers Meet Millenials” and was held in the Twin Cities.

Dr. George Guidera

Rev. Dr. Mark Schuler, professor of Theology and Greek, has been appointed chair of the Department of Religion and Theology. Having been involved in many different facets of Concordia’s institutional life since he joined the faculty in 1994, Mark brings a wealth of academic, professional and administrative experience to this appointment and in many of these areas has been a leader on the faculty.

College of Arts and Sciences term faculty Shari Speer was named president of Minnesota’s chapter of the National Association of Teachers of Singing. Speer is responsible for all communication and organization, presiding at all meetings and gatherings, and is held accountable to the national NATS office. She also performed in the Concordia Faculty Recital Series and at the Northeast Orchestra Concert.

College of Arts and Sciences term faculty Cate Vermeland was appointed to the Higher

Scott Harr, JD

Dr. Shellie Kieke

Education Consortium for Urban Affairs’ board of directors. Vermeland also had a photograph put into the Minnesota Museum of American Art’s permanent collection.

Dr. Michael Walcheski and Dr. David Bredehoft will soon release a newly edited second edition of their book “Family Life Education: Integrating Theory and Practice” in conjunction with the National Council on Family Relations.

The book was originally published in 2003 as a professional resource for Family Life Education practitioners. It is popular among practicing family life educators and has also been widely adopted as a supplemental textbook for family education programs. The new edition will include updated chapters and new chapters focused on financial literacy, work-life balance, group facilitation, marriage education, marketing of family life education programs and more.

Rev. Dr. David Lumpp

Rev. Dr. Mark Schuler

Professor Named President-Elect of National Arts Organization

Art department chair Keith Williams has been named president-elect of the National Council on Education for the Ceramic Arts, one of the largest arts organizations in the world. The nonprofit association was founded to promote and improve ceramic arts through education, research and creative practice. The NCECA boasts more than 4,000 individual artists, teachers and arts organizations. Williams will serve a six-year commitment as a member of the organization’s executive committee which will include a two-year term as president-elect, two years as president and two years as immediate past president. Art faculty member Marko Fields also serves as the organization’s publications director. “It is a rare honor and privilege to serve in this prestigious organization,” Williams said. “As an institution, Concordia is very well-positioned to continue to raise the profile of its art program.”

Summer | 2008

Concordia St. Paul

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Alumni News

Homecoming ’08 • Saturday, Sept. 27 union lude special re c in l il w g in The morn for the: programming • Class of ’83 75) nds from ’71-’ ie fr d n (a 3 ’7 • Class of ss of ’58 • Academy Cla Reunion • All-Football

Noon Football Game vs. Augustana, Sioux Falls

1 -3 p.m. Alumni Art

Show

3-7 p.m. Com This year’s et Carnival carnival w ill feature entertainme more food nt, carnivals and rides, a pe and more! tt in g zoo, the We hope y a lu o u’ll join cla mni friends in en ssmates, fa joying the la c u lt y , staff rgest CSP ce lebration of the year.

Volleyball Game vs. MSU Moorhead

Visit ave.csp.edu for more information an d to register for Homec oming events!

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Summer | 2008

live tent and

Alumni News

Class Notes 1

1930s

1940s

1950s

Ernest Gerike ’36 was ordained on June 25, 1944. Since his June 25, 1985 retirement, he has had the privilege of preaching in six different states and 69 congregations.

Allen Nauss ’42 has been married to his wife since 1958. They have four children; Ellen, Ruth, John and Vikki.

Donley Hesse ’52 married Lois Hesse on June 18, 1960. Donley was ordained July 14, 1957 at Blue Hill, Neb. He earned his B.A. degree from Seminary, St. Louis, in 1954.

1 Robert William Miller (Acad. ’37) and his wife, Marlys, celebrated their 66th wedding anniversary on May 2, 2008. The Millers are residents of Hazel Ridge, where they are members of the Ridgetones, the resident choir, and involved in many other activities. Robert has been resident president for five years.

Norman Clark (Acad. ’47) was married to Marianne on Sept. 3, 1949. They have three sons and one daughter.

Rev. Henry Friedrich ’48 is keeping busy as a visitation pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Algona, Iowa. He also is serving as an interim pastor at Zion Lutheran in LaVerne, Iowa and Immanuel Lutheran in Livermore, Iowa.

Members of the classes of ’58, ’73, ’83

Save the Date!

Robert Holtz ’52 received a Honorary Doctor of Laws Degree from Concordia Nebraska on May 10, 2008. He also works part time at Wargo Nature Center in Anoka County.

Frederick Koehler ’52 and his wife, Gloria, will celebrate 50 years of marriage on November 8, 2008.

September 26-28 Members of the Academy class of ’58, and College classes of ’73 and ’83 will reunite.

Reconnect with your classmates with special homecoming programming.

Look for registration information in your mailbox at home and online at ave.csp.edu.

For more information contact: Sarah Erkkinen ’02 • Director of Alumni Relations and Annual Fund 651-641-8223 • erkkinen@csp.edu

Summer | 2008

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Alumni News

Concordia Alumni

Great Minnesota Get-Together

Calling all alumni and friends…

Visit Concordia’s booth at the State Fair Education Building for our giveaway Aug. 21- Sept. 1 Help beat last years’ record of 500+ alumni visitors!

Edward Meyer ’52 married Melba Dufelmeier ’52 on August 20, 1955 and they have three children; Timothy, Thomas, and Tamara.

Edward graduated from Concordia Seminary, St. Louis in 1957 and was ordained July 14, 1957. He then served as a fire department chaplain for 25 years, chairman on the board of directors for Camp Linn Haven, at various churches in Indiana, North Carolina, and Minnesota. He has also been a guest speaker on The Lutheran Hour and was recognized as an International Pastoral Advisor for LLL. Melba received her B.A. degree in elementary education from Concordia University, Chicago.

Darlene (Roemhildt) Owens ’52 will be celebrating 50 years of marriage to Rob Owen. They have four children; Carole (49), Kathy (48), Doug (47), and Karen (46).

They have five grandchildren and six great grandchildren.

Arlene (Birr) Bergemann ’53 and her husband, Hilbert, celebrated 54 years of blessed marriage on June 27. Their four daughters and 11 grandchildren celebrated with them. Arlene and Hilbert reside in Good Thunder, Minn.

Darlene (Penk) Bertke ’53 is celebrating the birth of her first grandchild, Jon Hudson Maxwell, born November 19, 2007 in Jackson, Miss.

Condolences to the family of Gary Galchutt ’53 for the death of his wife Adeline M. (Wagner) Galchutt ’67, who went to her eternal home on March 18, 2008 at the age of 64. Memorials preferred to Prince of Peace Lutheran School in Spring Lake Park or the church workers fund at Concordia University, St. Paul.

Be a snapshot ofsuccess.

Get your photo taken for the booth display!

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Paul Bittner ’54 been a part of Concordia Mission Society for 15 years and traveled to Latvia, Russia, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan and Turkey.

Eugene Ludwig ’54 helps establish support groups for grandparents and other relatives raising children again in Yamhill County.

Bernhard Lutz ’54 served as Midwest regional representative for People of the Book Lutheran Outreach in 2004. He will be serving as pastor for ELCS Seminary in Sudan, Africa this summer.

Sheldon Matthees ’54 is married to Emily Louise Matthees and is the father of Shana Leah (Matthees) Wenger ’91.

Mertice (Spaude) Brueske ’55 married on August 27, 1961. She is blessed with three children; Patrick, Elizabeth, and Jeffery.

Herman Hannemann ’55 married Carole Frinke on September 3, 1960. They have four children; Andrew, Alan, Amy and Anthony.

Alan and Anthony attended Concordia University, St. Paul. Herman serves as the Hutchinson representative on the Pioneerland Library System Board.

Donald Manz (Acad. ’55) has seven grandchildren and is expecting his first greatgrandchild this summer.

Iris (St. Martin) Hackbarth ’56 and Lloyd Hackbarth ’56 will celebrate their 48th wedding anniversary on August 21, 2008.

They have three children and seven grandchildren. Iris retired from teaching in 2004. Lloyd received the Citizen of the Year Award in Maryville and Wentzville, Mo. Lloyd has been involved in volunteer activities and has delivered meals every Thursday for 35 years. They reside in Wentzville, Mo. Ruth (Schoessow) Leininger ’56 is one of the 1000-member concert band of The Villages, Fla. which appeared on “Live with Regis and Kelly” on April 29, 2008 as a part of Senior Week. Ruth plays bassoon and remembers her time at Concordia playing under the direction of Harold Otte, Paul Manz, and Bill Niebuhr.

Ruth and her Husband John are retired and reside in The Villiages, Fla.

Summer | 2008

In Memory

Marvin L. Wippich (’61), of Liberty, Mo., passed away Sunday, Dec. 16, 2007 at home. He was 64. Marvin was born in St. Paul, Minn., the son of Fred and Marian (Spaude) Wippich. He was preceded in death by his parents and a sister Marilyn. Marvin received his B.A. degree in education from Concordia University, St. Paul and his M.A. degree and a Ph.D. in educational administration from the University of Kansas. Marvin was an educator and administrator in Minnesota, Nebraska, Iowa, Kansas, Arizona and finally in Grandview, Mo. He served as a lay minister in Lutheran churches in Kansas, Missouri and Arizona, and was a member of St. Stephen Lutheran Church in Liberty. Marvin was an avid baseball and softball player and enjoyed golf in his later years. He enjoyed people; hugs were freely given to one and all. Marvin leaves his wife of 43 years, Barbara (Geiser) Wippich (’65); two daughters, Robin Wippich-Dienhart (Tom), and Kimberly McCann (Rob); three brothers, Fred Wippich, Jr. (Acad. ’47) (Ethel), Ellsworth Wippich (Acad. ’49) (Lois ’56), and DeLloyd Wippich (’52) (Barbara); and four grandchildren, Calvin, Veronica, Sean and Claire.

William Lewis ’56 and wife Joyce will celebrate 50 years of marriage August 18, 2008. They have six children and 20 grandchildren.

Arlene (Syrjala) Tarvainen ’56 and her husband celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary in July 2007.

Alden Wildfeuer ’56 has six children, 19 grandchildren, and six great grandchildren.

Evonne (Stender) Bode ’57 has four children; Tim, Rebecca, Elizabeth and Steven. She has seven grandchildren.

Sergei Koberg ’57 retired from the ministry on June 29, 2008 after 45 years as pastor at St. Philip Lutheran.

Muriel (Goetsh) Niss ’57 is married to Richard, Valparaiso graduate. They have four children and nine grandchildren. She has been teaching 1st grade since 1978. Prior to that, she taught 4th, 1st, 2nd, 5th, 6th, and 7th. She also developed a library/resource center in 1970. She does a seminar “How to get your child ready for school.” In 1999, she was awarded the Teacher of the Year Early Childhood Northern Ill., LCMS District.

She was recently honored for her 40 years of teaching. Muriel manages a program funded by her church, Compassion in Action, which helps those who experience financial difficulty.

Summer | 2008

Kathryn (Maag) Brusewitz ’58 married on June 19, 1960. She has three children; Rick, Konnie Kay, and Jason and five grandchildren; Megan, Andrew, Krista, Bradley and newest as of March 10, 2008 Brinley Sharon. She retired in April 2003 after serving 13 years as office administrator at St. Paul Bonduel.

She is also a cancer survivor and a Faithful Volunteer Award winner.

Ill.; Shepherd of the Hills in Greenville, Wis.; Peace Lutheran in Park Falls, Wis.; and is currently serving part-time at Trinity in Glidden, Wis. Stanley and Alice have been blessed to travel to the Holy Land, Ireland, England, Germany, Czech Republic, Austria, and Hawaii. They have special interests in playing church music and directing the junior and senior choirs.

Myrna (Brandmire) Hurttgam ’58 has been married to her husband Gordon for 48 years.

They have four children; Debra, Michael, Joel and Beth. They have 11 grandchildren and three great grandchildren.

Maurice Goldhammer ’59 and Susan will celebrate their 40th wedding anniversary on November 3, 2008 as well as the blessings of four children and seven grandsons. The couple recently returned from a two week trip to China where they served with fellow missionary colleagues and friends. Maurice has served at Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church as an interim assistant to the senior pastor during the last four years of his retirement. Maurice was also inducted into the Concordia University, St. Paul Athletic Hall of Fame in 2006.

Carol (Walz) Hutter ’58 will celebrate her 45th wedding anniversary this August.

David Schlade (Acad. ’58) married Janice Yunker on August 7, 1965. David served six years in the U.S. Navy. After serving, David had a 30 year career with General Motors.

Lawrence Stolz ’58 has been married for 48 years and has two children.

Barbara (Cords) Weber ’58 has two sons; Dean and Dennis.

Stanley Bahn ’59 married Alice Rakow ’60 on August 10, 1963 and they have three children. They have twin sons; Daryn and Daryl, who are both ordained pastors and a daughter, Angela, who is employed at Harley Davidson as a business performance analyst in rider services. Stanley was ordained in June 1965 and has served at various churches including Grace in River Forest, Ill.; Good Shepherd in Glendale Heights,

Gerhard Michael ’59 and his wife are excited to announce the newest blessing to their family, granddaughter Caroline Ruth, who was born on February 16, 2008. Caroline is the 4th child of Gregory and Kelly Michael and the 15th grandchild. Gerhard continues to serve on the LCMS’ Commission in Theology and Church Relations, Pastor Committee, and the Garana Foundation Board.

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Alumni News

1960s Alice (Rakow) Bahn ’60 married Stanley Bahn ’59 on August 10, 1963 and has three children. They have twin sons; Daryn and Daryl, who are both ordained pastors and a daughter, Angela, who is employed at Harley Davidson as a business performance analyst in rider services. Alice taught 1st through 3rd grades in Lutheran schools for six years.

She also took nurse aide training education and then worked as an activity aide in a nursing home for eight years. Stanley and Alice have been blessed to travel to the Holy Land, Ireland, England, Germany, Czech Republic, Austria, and Hawaii. They have special interests in playing church music and directing the junior and senior choirs.

Ronald Braatz ’60 has one daughter and two grandchildren. He will celebrate 45 years of marriage with his wife this year.

Vivian (Tonn) Schuneman ’60 and her husband, Harlan, will celebrate their 45th anniversary in 2008. They have four children; Rebecca, Debra, Rachel and David.

Vivian retired in 2000 and enjoys traveling, attending senior college at Alexandria Technical College, and supervising the Carols Seniors monthly activities.

Ruff (Michael) Elaine ’61 retired from teaching preschool in 2004. The last school she taught at was St. Paul’s Lutheran School, Kingsville, Minn.

Daniel Heinert ’61 has been married to his wife for 45 years they have three sons and five grandchildren.

Janice (Maruski) Janssen ’61 and her husband have been married for 43 years.

They have three children; Tod (41), Trent (36), and April (31).

Karen (Plautz) Jauch’s (’61) son Paul and spouse Vickie blessed her and her husband with two wonderful granddaughters adopted from Guatemala. Karen also traveled to Guatemala City in September of 2006 with Paul, Vickie and daughter Maria, also adopted from Guatemala in 2003.

Rev. Lynn Podoll ’61 and his wife Karla celebrated 40 years of marriage with a trip to Germany.

Merkel (Herman) Rosemary ’61 and Leroy celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary May 4, 2007. Her granddaughter, Christy Merkel, will be a CSP student in the fall.

Olivia (Callender) Degeest’s (’62) first daughter, Jackie got married in Alaska in July 2006. She is now vice president of IPS Worldwide.

Dennis Schultz ’62 retired from St. Paul Lutheran as pastor June 30, 2008.

Carol (Schultze) Tolzin ’62 has two sons, one daughter-in-law and one grandson.

Arden Walz ’62 married Lorel S. Peyer on October 6, 2007.

Judith (Severance) Grotelveschen ’64 works part time for Indiana District LCMS as congregational/service assistant early childhood consultant. She retired in 1995 after 23 years of teaching.

Robert Hathaway ’64 was awarded the Outstanding Faculty Award in 2006 at Century Community College.

Mathilda (Hinkelman) Hemme ’64 and her husband have four grown children and five grandchildren. Mathilda is currently employed as a technical accountant at Seattle Pacific University.

Ronald Lepere ’65 married Charlotte Ludwig June 8, 1969. They have four children; Ruth Mower, Judith, Jonathan and David. They are also blessed to have five grandchildren.

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Phyllis (Foreman) Otto ’65 has four children and seven grandchildren.

Robert Tasler ’65 remarried to Carole Meek in 1986. He has two sons; Brian and Chuck.

Delores (Ulrich) Kading ’66 and her husband Marv retired in May 2006. They love retirement. All three of their children graduated from Concordia University, St. Paul; Melanie ’93, Brian ’94 and Angela ’98.

Diane (Person) Kittleson’s (’66) son is the principal of Williston High School.

Howard Krienke ’66 is a retired Col. of U.S. Army Reserves after serving 30 years as a chaplain. Howard is also a chaplain for the Hopkins Police Department.

Marcella (Just) Ludwig ’66 has one grandson, Tyler Ludwig, born on November 14, 2003. She has two children; Kristine and Scott. Marcella taught school for 40 years and retired in spring 2006.

Linda (Baule) Krienke ’67 is celebrating 25 years of teaching in the Lutheran school system.

Verda (Pamperin) Pape ’67 has two daughters; Elizabeth Harwood and Celeste Pape. Verda also has one granddaughter, Kylie Elyse Harwood, born January 29, 2008.

Charles Lopez ’68 finished his certificate at Loyola Marymount University. Charles also completed his 3rd unit of clinical pastoral education at Long Beach Memorial Medical Center.

Mary (Patten) Marth ’68 has been married for 38 years. She has three children and seven grandchildren.

Maryanne (Drewlow) Murdoff ’68 received a M.S. degree in special education from Minnesota State University, Moorhead in May 2000. She is the special education coordinator at the Circle of Nations Native American boarding school in Wahpeton, ND.

Summer | 2008

Alumni News

Marian (Krueger) Neels ’68 and her husband celebrated 40 years of marriage on June 9, 2008.

Carol (Nienow) Radl ’68 has been enjoying her retirement since 2002. After 33 years of teaching, Carol now spends her days traveling and substitute teaching on occasion. She is the mother of two; Josh and Jami, and the grandmother of two; Hannah and Micah.

Sarah (Roth) Behring’s (’69) husband, Rev. Dr. Mark, has been serving as pulpit supply at Good Shepherd Lutheran in Cleveland, Texas for three Sundays each month.

Dick Cottrell ’69 is working on a HRIS textbook. Ten chapters are complete and four more are expected to be complete for submission to the publisher by summer 2008.

Richard Pape ’69 is the new grandparent of Jackson Richard Thomas Tucker.

Judith (Krenz) Soo ’69 and her husband celebrated their 30th wedding anniversary.

Their daughter, Michelle, graduated from Meredith College on December 15, 2007.

Michelle is a North Carolina Teaching Fellow. Judith retired from teaching in June 2007.

Concordia Presence Strong at Lutheran Education Association’s Convocation Lutheran educators from across the country gathered in Minneapolis at the Lutheran Education Association Convocation. The April event drew over 3,400 people including many Concordia alumni. LEA, a professional organization that exists to link, equip and affirm Lutheran educators, hosts the convocation every three years. Workshops, exhibits and entertainment are all a part of the event which exists to help Lutheran educators enhance their ministries.

Summer | 2008

Dr. Jeffrey Burkart, associate dean of the College of Vocation and Ministry serves on the LEA board of directors and helped organize the event. Burkart said it is a great event that gathers Lutheran educators from all over the world. He sites Indonesia, Austrailia, and Papua New Guinea as places attendees have come from. “It gives everyone a chance to build up each other in our missions,” Burkart said.

Concordia hosted an alumni gathering in the evening where over 250 enjoyed fellowship.

Concordia celebrated with Dari Hartmann’83 who was recognized as this year’s LEA Master DCO. Previous alumni award winners include Jim Halsted ’89, 2007 LEA Master DCO; Phillip Johnson ’82, 2006 LEA Master DCO; Alice Smith (’62 ’00), 2006 Distinguished International Teacher of the Year and 1996 LEA Distinguished Elementary Teacher of the Year; and Drew Gerdes ’00, 2006 LEA Distinguished Lutheran Early Childhood Teacher.

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Alumni News

1970s Linda (Neal) Husfeld’s (’70) son Richard graduated from Concordia Austin with a B.S. degree and her daughter Rachel graduated from Valparaiso University with a B.S. and from Texas A&M with a M.S. in Engineering.

Rebecca (Lampela) Landrie’s (’70) son Chad received his Ph.D. from UIC. He is a lecturer at UIC and teaches chemistry. Her other son Jeremy married Anna Schaafsma on October 7, 2006.

Gloria (Kuhlmann) Spiegel ’70 and husband, Duane, took a two week bus tour through Utah, Nevada, and California last summer. They visited six national parks and many other places like Lake Tahoe and Utah’s Kennecott’s Copper Mines. Gloria and Duane Spiegel have four grandchildren; Jada, Collin, Ethan, and Titus.

Loween (Aadland) Sturm ’70 retired from teaching in 2001 and has kept herself busy as a church secretary and organist for Emmanuel Lutheran Church in Elk River, Minn. She is also a full-time organist at her home church, Faith Community Lutheran Church in Zimmerman, Minn. She is active in the LWML (president), as a grandmother, and is a proud Red Hat Lady.

Bonnie (Honebrink) Stoeckman ’71 has provided foster care for 35 years including 125 county placements and 225 crisis nursery placements. Bonnie has been a mentor for 10 years.

Paul Labbus ’72 married Jean on December 30, 1972. They have two children; Joshua and Sarah. Paul celebrated 35 years of teaching in Lutheran schools in September 2007.

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LeRoy Wilke ’72 is retired and serves on the board of directors and as secretary/treasurer for KINDLE, on the board of directors for Lutheran Blind Mission, and on the board of regents at Concordia Seminary, St. Louis.

He is the deputy director for Wittenberg English Ministry 2006-2007 and adjunct faculty for Concordia University, St. Paul.

He is involved in other activities with his congregation at LCMS International Center.

He has traveled to China and Turkey.

Juliann (Gust) Baxter ’74 has two children who have graduated from Concordia University, St. Paul; Jameson Baxter ’08 and Kathryn Baxter ’05.

Sharon (Bock) Corso ’74 married her husband, Keith, on November 27, 1982.

They have three children; Tony, Christy, and Nicky.

Phyllis (Bettermann) Brannan ’74 is secretary and treasurer for The Kings Outreach Organization.

Miriam (Schedler) Hilk ’74 has three daughters; CSP senior Melissa Hilk, Emily who graduated from Bethel and is now teaching in Maple Grove, and Jessica who is attending Augsburg.

Denise (Wearda) Hogan ’74 married Tyson Kinnick. They now have three children; Traci, Brian, Brent.

Valerie (Isaak) Sayler ’75 was on the executive board of the Women of ELCA for three years where she attended many conventions across the country. She is also active as a lay minister, teaches confirmation and is currently acting as president of the church council.

Mike Dagel ’76 married Lora Lepisto June 9, 1979. They have three children; Micah, Sarah, Noah. Michael has served on various boards including Foley Are C.A.R.Echairman of the board, Foley School Crisis Team 1987-present, Foley DACCS Co.

1999-present, Rum River Chapter Thrivent Financial- vice president of the board.

Yvonne (Lemke) Wittrock ’76 and Arlen celebrated 25 years of marriage.

Edwin Doepel ’77 married Ruth (Ritcher) Doepel ’77. They just celebrated 30 years of marriage. They have three children; Edwin (29), Adam (26), and Erin (20).

Judy Christian-Granberg ’77 worked in Hong Kong for 17 years and has shifted to mainland China. She is studying Mandarin Chinese.

Eunice (Labbus) Mathews ’77 has three sons; Aaron, Joel, and Caleb. Aaron is a teacher at Luther South Academy in Houston, Texas. Joel is a teacher at Fort Osage in Kansas City, Mo. Caleb is a student at University of Nebraska, Lincoln.

Harold Wegner ’77 and his wife will celebrate their 60th anniversary on November 6, 2008.

Mark Olson ’78 and Connie D. Olson recently celebrated their 25th anniversary with a renewal of vows and party hosted by family on October 9, 2007.

Barbara (Gehrke) Hertling ’79 and her husband celebrated their 20th wedding anniversary on June 18, 2008. They live in St. Cloud where Barbara works as a DCE for the Minnesota North District. She also started an online business, Market America.

The website is dbh.unfranchise.com.

Robert Kasper ’79 married Debbie (Brandt) Kasper. They have four children; Becky, Jacob, Gabriel, and Anna. Robert has served 25 years is the ministry and has served nine years on the Lutheran High School Association board.

Scott Larson ’79 currently works as a fundraising consultant for Paul J. Strawhecker, Inc. He was recently inducted as a “Nebraska Admiral.” He and his wife, Carla, enjoy vacationing on Sanibel Island,

Summer | 2008

Alumni News

Fla. and look forward to celebrating their 29th anniversary this year.

Gary Rehborg ’81 was awarded the Americanism Award VFW Post 5518 Elk River/Rogers.

1980s

Rachel (Krause) Durham ’82 and her husband celebrated their 25th wedding anniversary in 2007. Rachel resides in Santa Rosa, Calif. where she works as the director of music ministries at St. Mark Lutheran Church.

They have three daughters; Samantha (22), Ashley (20) and Mary (14).

Nancy (Eberle) McCarty ’80 and her husband, Michael, married on August 7, 1993. Their first son, Alexander, was born in 1997.

Donna (Isaacson) Oesterreich ’80 has a daughter, Leah, who is enrolled at Concordia University, St. Paul.

David Andrus ’81 married Deb (Plath) ’81 on May 31, 1980. They are the proud parents of two daughters; Victoria (Tori), born in 1996 and Margaret (Meg), born in 1998.

Sharon (Reske) Hinck ’81 just released two novels, “The Restorer’s Journey” (book three in the Sword of Lyric series by NavPress) and “Symphony of Secrets” (Bethany House Publishing). Information on these and other books by Sharon can be found at www.sharonhinck.com.

Julianne (Berg) Marcsisak ’81 is a legal assistant and an organist at Zion, Cologne accompanying the adult choir. She plays for all services and most weddings and funerals.

Vera Guebert-Steward ’82 was ordained as an ELCA pastor in May 1997. She married Mark D. Guebert-Steward in June 1987.

Steven Benson’s (’83) daughter, Emily A. Benson, is a freshman at Concordia University, St. Paul.

Kriss (Halliday) Glaeser ’83 and husband, Todd, celebrated their 25th anniversary in June. They have one daughter, Alison, who is in college. Todd graduated from Concordia Irvine and is teaching at Lutheran High School San Diego.

Becky (Moen) Joecks ’83 was awarded the 2005 Nurse of the Year in the Southern Minnesota Region. This award, sponsored

by KEYC-TV in Mankato, Thro Homes, and MSU-Mankato, was the first of its kind

recognizing an outstanding nurse in the region and is now an annual award. Becky lives in Mankato where she works as a registered nurse and is the women’s health coordinator for Mankato Clinic.

Joseph Labuda ’84 reached a milestone in his coaching career at Menomonie High School with his 200th win. His overall coaching record is 209-28.

Donald Polege ’84 is presently a circuit counselor working on his Ph.D. Rochelle (Simmering) Franzen ’85 received her Ph.D. in curriculum and instruction. She was voted teacher of the year in Fairmont.

Deborah (Brandt) Kasper ’85 is celebrating 20 years as a teacher and participates in various leadership workshops for the LCMS Missouri and Michigan districts.

Mary Gwen (DeWitte) Marquardt ’85 is a proud parent of new Concordia student, Elizabeth. Elizabeth will be a freshman this fall. (see below) Bernice Pehl ’85 and husband, Joe, are very excited that their oldest child, Joshua, has chosen to attend Concordia University, St. Paul. Josh is a junior at Concordia, majoring in Theater Arts and Communications and

Future Frosh From a young age, Elizabeth Marquardt ’12 has looked forward to becoming a Golden Bear. She is excited to begin her first year at Concordia University, St. Paul this fall. Elizabeth is the daughter of MaryGwen Marquardt ’85.

Summer | 2008

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Alumni News

will graduate next year. He was able to reach the rank of Eagle in the Boy Scouts of America while in high school.

David Thomack ’85 is married to Jo-Ann Thomack. They have two children; Jonathan and Rebecca.

Carol (Swanson) Trovall’s (’85) daughter Elizabeth graduated from high school in June 2008 and is going to the University of Missouri to study journalism. Carol just completed a mid-management degree for certification as a principal.

Edith (Weidner) Opdahl ’86 and her husband, Steve, reside in Minneapolis where Edith works as a homemaker for their five children; Karen (15), Jonathan (14), Timothy (13), Daniel (10), and Christa (7). Edith also serves on the Minnesota State Team of Moms In Touch International.

Diann (Munson) Rundquist ’86 completed her M.A. degree in curriculum and instruction in 2007.

Kara (von Barge) Closs ’87 has been a preschool teacher at St. Paul Lutheran, Fairmont since 2003.

Marsha (Heidrich) Hartwig ’87 married Michael in May 1993. They have three sons; Spence (11), Jansen (9), and Mitchell (6).

Phillip Rogers ’87 is working as the principal for St. John Lutheran School in WinstonSalem, NC. He and his wife, Emily (Behling ’88) reside in North Carolina with their three children; Thane (13), Ian (9) and Grace (4).

Carolyn Hackman ’88 married Ted Hackman on April 26, 2003.

Joan McNamee ’88 married John McNamee in 1995 and had twin girls, Michelle and Kelly, in 1998.

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Stephen Wilson’s (’88) daughter, Holly ’08, graduated from Concordia University, St. Paul in May. His son, Nick, plays football at Bemidji State University. His daughter Katie attends Mayer Lutheran High School.

Kathryn Klemz ’89 is the proud aunt of three boys and one girl. She helps with Meals-onWheels in May and December with members of her church.

Allan Lull ’89 married in 1995 and has two children; Hannah (9) David (7). He is enrolled in Concordia University, St. Paul’s MACO program. Allan was also a trip leader for Indian Bethania Orphanage, India for missions.

Roger Schwagmeyer ’89 is married to Verna Clark. They will celebrate 45 years of marriage Aug. 3, 2008.

Sherry (Smith) Shelton ’89 has one son, David, born September 6, 1990.

1990s Theresa (Billmeyer) Hoppmann ’90 and husband Jon celebrate the birth of Emma Adeline Hoppmann, born December 19, 2007.

Paula Meyer ’90 rejoices at the birth of daughter, Shealeigh Marie, on May 1, 2007.

She joins brother Joshua (4). The Meyer family is moving to Longmong, Colo. this summer.

Patra (Pfotenhauer) Mueller ’90 moved to Irvine, Calif. in 2000 to teach at Concordia University, Irvine. She married Peter. C. Mueller in June 2003 and he was ordained in October 2004. They celebrated the birth of their son, John Christian, on December 29, 2004 and the birth of their daughter, Hannah Joy, on April 12, 2007. Patra served as the director of the DCE program from 2000 to 2005 and now stays at home with their children while teaching part time and serving at their church.

DeLlayne Wippich ’90 and his wife Kristine gave birth to twin daughters, Claire and Maggie, on February 18, 2008. They were welcomed by their brother Aidan (3).

Jeri Bates ’91 recently completed her second year in her job as a human resources representative at Park Nicollet Health Services—Methodist Hospital, where she is responsible for recruitment and retention of the in-patient nursing staff and overseeing the Student Nurse Intern Program and the New Graduate Registered Nurse Residency program. As part of her continuing education, she received her Professional Human Resources Certification in January 2007, after a semester of classes and a really hard exam!

David Katzke ’91 married Susan Bell on June 6, 1992. They have two children; Nicole and Kylie.

Bill Zuelsdorff ’91 is teaching 6-8th grade at St. Paul Lutheran School in Steven’s Point, Wis. He is also a coach at the school and resides with his wife Carmen (Diercks) ’92 in Plover, Wis. John Bergeland ’92 married Rachel (Boogerd) on August 2, 2007. She is from Rock Valley, Iowa. This makes a Dutch girl married to a Norwegian! John is now retired and has been teaching Bible studies with his alpha program. Rachel works in the physical therapy department at Luther Manor Good Samaritan Society Nursing Home in Sioux Falls, SD. Virginia (Madison) Cheeney ’92 adopted Karen Anne from China. Virginia is also a real estate agent and coordinator for Children’s Hope Ministries.

Scott Hoelscher ’92 married Anna Forsline October 8, 2005. Scott served as a full-time AmeriCorps volunteer from 2001-2003 in Portland.

Summer | 2008

Stephanie (Wilson) Lillis ’92 and her husband, Gregory, welcomed their third child, Brandon Robert Lillis, on December 22, 2007. He joins his brother, Connor (6), and sister, Brooke (5), and promises to keep mom and dad on their toes more than ever.

Lois Sikorski ’92 is certified with American Red Cross as a member of the Spiritual Response Team, which is called to disasters such as Katrina, Lexington air crash, and Arizona bus crash. She is also a Board Certified Chaplain with the Association of Professional Chaplains and is one of three certified LCMS female chaplains. During retirement, she continues on the hospitals’ Speakers’ Bureau, is an active Lutheran chaplain, and is a frequent Valparaiso University alumni soloist.

Henry Brown ’93 enrolled in Concordia’s D.Min. program May 2008. November 2008 he will celebrate 30 years of Pastoral Supervision for 12 Capital City COGIC churched in St. Paul.

Dan Bates ’94 and Cheri (Barclay) Bates ’94 were married in 1996. They have two sons; Barclay (11) and Johnathan (7). They reside in Sauk Rapids, Minn. Both boys attend Prince of Peace Lutheran School, a school that grew out of the 115 year history of Cheri’s alma mater—Trinity Lutheran.

After an extensive career in customer service management, Cheri recently became a full-time stay-at-home mom. Dan is a regional director for Manpower Inc. where he oversees 14 markets in five states in the upper Midwest. He has been at Manpower for over 12 years.

Eisele (Martinco) Metz ’94 remarried on December 30, 2006 to Rev. R.D. “Dick” Metz.

Gail (Juncewski) Ruhland ’94 completed her MBA in 2003 and received a promotion to director of training at St. Cloud State University.

Where Faith and Learning Meet Ryan Steffen ’05 has been working for the last two years as an accountant for CHS Inc., a Fortune 200 food, grain and energy product supplier. He works closely with traders on processing contracts, pricings, and futures exchanges while also recording and reconciling daily transactions for the company’s spring wheat business. Last fall, Steffen helped manage a work load that contributed in part to the company’s record earnings of $468.9 million for the first half of their fiscal year.

Steffen enjoys working for a co-op that strengthens the rural area he grew up in. “What I do plays an essential part in providing the food we eat everyday, and not just here in Minnesota, but food for the entire world.”

While he received a strong finance foundation at Concordia, Steffen also appreciates how faith was woven into his experience. “The entire Concordia experience including classes, extracurricular activities, and specifically the people there, all helped me grow as a Christian,” Steffen said.

Concordia also taught Steffen about vocations.

“At Concordia, I learned that we are all called to be ‘church workers’ and are able to impact others through our Christian lifestyles and choices,” said Steffen. “I realize now that nonchurch related jobs, such as being an accountant, are also part of a person’s vocation.”

Summer | 2008

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Alumni News

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Matthew Drees ’95 married Jennifer Riggert in 1995. They have two children; Carah and Caleb.

Tom Edelen ’96 serves as a Thrivent Builds Homes coordinator with Thrivent Financial for Lutherans and Habitat for Humanity.

Through this position, Tom helps manage the national Thrivent Builds Homes program and supports over 300 Habitat for Humanity grants throughout the country. Tom resides in Commerce City (Denver), Colo.

Dawn (Wegschneider) Keenan ’95 resides in Maplewood, Minn. where she works as a mortgage consultant for Minnesota One Mortgage.

Doug Latuseck ’95 received a Doctor of Psychology degree in Clinical Psychology from the Minnesota School of Professional Psychology and is a licensed psychologist.

2 Mike ’95 and Mary (Overman) Law ’95 celebrated the birth of their second child, Molly Lorraine Law, on March 16, 2007.

She weighed 9 lbs., 1 oz. and joins her sister, Maggie Rose (6).

Norman Meyer ’95 married Elsie Lou Bartling July 7, 1945. They have three daughters; Mary, Beth, Vicki and Cynthia.

Melissa (Bruening) Brandenburger ’96 married Corey Brandenburger ’97 on December 19, 1999. They have three children; Abigail Joy, Ryan James, and Madeleine Joy.

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Earline Holmes ’96 is now a retired biological technician and spends much of her time volunteering. She volunteered as a tutor in the Minneapolis Public Schools from May 2003 until July 2007. Now she is a chair on the Tenant Entertainment Committee where she lives and plans events and trips to help bring the tenants together in community.

Angela (Kjos) Nyamburi ’96 is an account executive for Wells Fargo Insurance Services of Minnesota. She has worked in the insurance industry since 1996. She has a CISR designation and is working towards her CIC designation. She is licensed in the state of Minnesota with lines of authority in life and health, and property and casualty insurance, and supports one of the vice presidents in her office. Angie assists clients with their entire commercial insurance program including property, liability, auto, workers’ compensation and umbrella and other lines including international and other needs that may arise. She and her husband, Isaiah, have been married since 1995. They have two boys; Joshua (11) and Elijah (9). They live in Edina, Minn. in the house Angie grew up in.

Molly (Marquardt) Kieser ’97 has her own counseling and coaching business.

Soulformation, LLC. The business provides faith-based therapeutic care and education to individuals, young people, couples and families. God has called her to be in charge of our thoughts, emotions, and behavior.

Soulformation, LLC is committed to a unique blend of personal growth and transformation by integrating the disciplines of behavioral sciences, human design spirituality, and biblical truth to increase self-awareness and facilitate change.

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3 Martha (Krueger) Putnam ’97 gave birth to David Vincent on February 13, 2008. He weighed 8.6 lbs. and joins siblings Lillian (9), Grace (8) and William (2). Martha is now a deaconess and works for Hanley Center coordinating drug/alcohol prevention programs in the Palm Beach County schools and husband, Vince, is associate pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church and School, Delray Beach, Fla.

Brenda (Becker) Smith ’97 is working on her M.A. degree at St. Thomas and is focusing on autism.

Desiree Church ’98 is a volunteer Guardian Ad Litem in Scott County.

Mark Drews ’98 married Melanie Ann Reinke (Seward) ’92 on November 25, 2000. His mother, Patricia Drews ’86 passed away four years later on September 2, 2004. Mark and Melanie were blessed within the next year with the birth of their daughter, Grace Patricia Drews, on May 19, 2005. Mark was ordained on May 25, 2003 at St. Paul in Hamel, Ill. and was installed at Trinity in Hilbert, Wis. on July 6, 2003. He was installed at Zion in Mt. Pulaski, on February 6, 2006.

Laura (Neal) Frerich ’98 is celebrating the birth of her son Caleb Andrew French born February 11, 2008. He was 5lbs., 10oz., 19 inches. He joins his big brother Harrison (3).

Patrick Hjelm ’98 is married to Chella and they have two daughters; Olivia and Avery.

Stephen Lammers ’98 is married to Gina and they have two sons; Luke and David.

Summer | 2008

Alumni News

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Anna (Klemp) Martin ’98 sings on praise team at Easter Lutheran. Her husband, Jeff, plays guitar for the praise team as well.

They are part of the praise team for the contemporary services at the Easter by the Lake church campus location.

Mary Solien ’98 started a newspaper, “Citizens Criterion,” to compete with an existing newspaper. Within six months, it overtook the existing newspaper and became the sole newspaper in Henning, Minn. Mary is also president of Henning Chamber of Commerce.

2000s Dawson Blanck ’00 married Lori Haggerty on July 30, 2005. They gave birth to Landon Patrick on December 23, 2007.

Dawson is the Minnesota United States Specialty Sports Association State Director for baseball. Dawson has coached high school football since 1999 at Park Center High School, St. Agnes School and now St. Bernard’s school. He officiates high school varsity basketball.

Sara (Wahl) Boss ’00 married John and they have two children; Anika Marie and Parker William.

Cynthia Halbach ’00 married in 2002 and is now blessed with one-year-old twins.

4 Maximilian ’00 and Amanda Knoell ’00 celebrated the birth of their daughter, Olivia Josephine Knoell, on January 8, 2008. She joins big brother Nathan (5) as a testament of God’s gracious love. The family resides in Racine, Wis.

Summer | 2008

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Burke Perry ’00 and his wife welcomed their second daughter, Kristiana Epiphany Perry, to the world on January 6, 2008 in Phoenix, Ariz. Kristina was made a child of God at Atonement Lutheran Church, Glendale, Ariz. on Sunday, Feb. 10, 2008. Burke was promoted to chef saucier and is a supervisor in the main kitchen at the Westin Kierland Resort & Spa, Scottsdale, Ariz. last spring and works directly under the banquet chef and executive chef.

5 Marjorie Myer ’00 celebrates the birth of her daughter, Nataliene Prudence Myer, on November 30, 2007.

6 In November 2007, Joseph ’00 and Katie (Anderson) Zimmermann ’01, founded New Roots Coffee Company LLC, a specialty coffee roaster near Wausau, Wis. New Roots roasts the best coffees available including fair trade and organic coffees.

Their web site is www.newrootscoffee.com.

7 Josh ’01 and Leah (Matson) Beck ’01 are pleased to announce the birth of their daughter, Hope Kristine, on July 25, 2007.

She was welcomed home by a sister, Grace Elizabeth, born August 9, 2004.

Ronda Charping ’01 serves as adjunct professor in child development at Jefferson State Community College. She is also a two-time nominee for the Excellence in School Age Care Award.

Dan Creed ’01 is married with two children and one grandchild. Dan is also the international study abroad coordinator at Normandale Community College.

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Dana Dafoe ’01 was recently married and works part-time as a Christian education and youth director.

8&9 Shannon Hecksel ’01 and Kelly gave birth to their baby boy, Brayden Lewis Hecksel, on February 21, 2008. Brayden joins a sister, Cadison Taylor (2), at home.

10,11,12 Ken Norton ’01 and wife, Dolores, celebrated their 25th wedding anniversary on June 25, 2008. They have been blessed by the marriage of their son, Chris, to Shannon on April 11, 2007 on the Island of Maui. Ken was honored to be asked by the happy couple to be the officiant. They were later blessed with the birth of their first grandchild, Caleb Allen Norton.

13 Rosie (Daak) Olson ’01 and husband, Andy, were married on November 3, 2007 at Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church in Richfield, Minn. Rosie works for Coldwell Banker Burnet in Edina, Minn. as a listing coordinator, is a contemporary worship leader at Mt. Calvary and teaches private piano and flute lessons. Andy is a preschool teacher at Mt. Olivet Day Services in Minneapolis and teaches private drum lessons. The couple resides in Inver Grove Heights, Minn.

Judy Salz ’01 worked as adjunct faculty in Concordia University, St. Paul’s College of Business and Organizational Leadership for the IT Management degree.

Sigrid Skaaland ’01 participated in her first Art in the Yard Show and Sale in October 2006 and 2007. She celebrates and is thankful for her growth as an artist, which began to develop in the Concordia art classes while working as a staff member.

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Alumni News

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Shane Wasserman ’01 married Bryn Wasserman. They are celebrating the birth of their daughter, Addison Jade Wasserman, on October 24, 2006.

Kenneth Beer ’02 married Frances Beer on September 13, 1959. They have three children and eight grandchildren.

Donyea Collins ’02 and his wife gave birth to twins, Domariyea and Diliahna, in April 2006.

Sarah (Pieper) Erkkinen ’02 loves her job as director of Alumni Relations and Annual Fund at Concordia University, St. Paul.

Jennifer Fisher ’02 is working as a self-employed broker for ERA Gillespie Real Estate. In 2007, Jennifer became a board member for the Southeast Minnesota Association of Realtors and received recognition for sales production by the Broker & President’s Circle.

14 Brian ’02 and Ellen (Menzel) Haefner ’02 celebrated the birth of their son, Matthew Laurence, on February 25, 2008. He weighed 7 lbs., 6oz. and was 19 inches long. He was welcomed home by sister Emily (2). Ellen is a stay-at-home mom and Brian is an underwriting manager with Wells Fargo Home Mortgage.

15 Katrina (Guidera) Hannemann ’02, husband John, and son Cooper, announce the birth of Ainsley Jade Eden Hannemann on November 12, 2007. She was born at Fairview Southdale in Edina, Minn. and weighed 6 lbs., 15 oz.

Lisa Jensen ’02 completed the MBTI Qualification Program May 2006 and traveled with alumni group on a Mediterranean cruise fall 2007.

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Kathy Maanum ’02 is working on her M.A. degree in education through Concordia’s off-site program.

Michael Sprengeler ’02 started directing the hand chime ensemble at church.

Thomas Ryan ’02 married wife Rosie on May 6, 1995. Their son, Kyle, was born in 1997.

The family resides in Eden Prairie, Minn.

Larita Velure ’02 and her husband, Chuck, enjoy traveling to Cancun each spring. Last year, they spent three weeks in France and Spain. Closer to home trips include canoeing to the BWCA and whitewater trips at the Brule River in Wisconsin.

Michelle Wolfram ’02 married Michael Schlueter on November 19, 2005. They are celebrating the birth of their daughter, Hannah, born December 26, 2006.

Lisa Calvin ’03 got married March 12, 2005.

Lisa and her husband are celebrating the birth of their daughter Molly.

Heather (Dyslin) Chouravong (’03 ’08) and Andre Chouravong, JD, were married on February 15, 2008 at Warrendale Presbyterian Church in St. Paul, Minn. Heather graduated from the M.A. in Organizational Management program with a Human Resources emphasis at Concordia University, St. Paul in May. She works in Bloomington at a recruiting firm. Andre is an attorney editor in Eagan, Minn. where the couple resides.

Sandra Edwards ’03 works at Meld- Parents as a Teacher Curriculum Licensed Evangelist Missionary for the Churches of God in Christ.

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Marian Hamre ’03 is the proud grandmother of six.

Gretchen Miller ’03 got married on June 28, 2008. She works for Ecreativeworks as a sales and client services manager and lives in Champlin, Minn.

Eliza Nesmith ’03 is working on her Ed.D at Nova Southeastern University. All of her course work is complete and she hopes to finish her dissertation in 2008 or 2009.

Luz Guerrero-Pacheco ’03 served as an LCMS Volunteer Missionary in Venezuela from 2002 to 2005.

16 Elizabeth Reineck ’03 graduated from the Medical College of Wisconsin in May 2007 where she received her M.D. Dr. Reineck is working as a resident physician at the University of Michigan Hospital system in Ann Arbor.

Jay Schutte ’03 married Kim Schutte on December 23, 2005.

Gerald Senechal ’03 is working as an avionic engineer for Canard Aerospace in Shakopee, Minn. He married his wife, Amy, on October 6, 1997 and they reside in Chaska, Minn.

Janet (Brownawell) Smith ’03 and her husband are celebrating the birth of their new child, Sonja Lee Smith, born on March 27, 2008.

Allison (Huber) Smits ’03 married Benjamin Smits on August 4, 2006. She is the stepmom of Matthew (6).

Edna Terry ’03 married Rick Terry on November 30, 2003.

Summer | 2008

Alumni News

Jason Cooper ’04 is attending John Marshall Law School in Chicago, Ill. and will graduate in a year and a half.

Rochelle Gieseke ’05 married Tim Emmers on June 10, 2006. Their first daughter, Malayna Meredith, was born June 27, 2007.

Candice Bicondoa ’06 is obtaining her M.A. degree in Differentiated Instruction at Concordia University, St. Paul.

Heidi Gist ’04 owns and operates Silver Brook Corn Maze Inc. This seasonal business includes a corn maze, pony rides, pumpkin patch, and hay rides.

Karen Gula ’05 got married in October 1997.

She has completed four marathons and has been the vice president of Marshal Golf Club for six years. She has sit on the advisory board for Marshall Community Foundation for two years. She is also a certified toastmaster.

Michael Grannis ’06 has been accepted to the Mission Formation Program (MFP) at Concordia Theological Seminary, St. Louis.

The national focus of the MFP involves anything from being a “worker priest” with the goal of gathering and starting a new congregation, to heading up a ministry team from an existing congregation as they start a satellite campus. Michael and Kristy ’06 reside in St. Louis along with their son, Michaiah (1).

Robin (Chilstrom) Green ’04 married Darrel Green on June 5, 2004. They are celebrating the birth of Leo Wyatt Green born in 2005.

17 Leah (Ferber) ’07 and Charles Martin ’04 married on February 9, 2008.

Jeanne Michels ’04 received Certificate in Distance Learning from UW Madison.

Amy (Karg) Radtke ’04 is a volunteer mentor at the Minneapolis Council of Churches Community Justice Program.

Steven Volesky ’04 earned his MBA from Augsburg College in 2006. Steven also earned his Lean Master Certification.

Kari Williams ’04 married Christopher Kidman on June 23, 2007.

Adam Bulava ’05 was awarded new teacher of the month at Canyon Springs High School in North Las Vegas, Nev. for the month of January.

Eric Cannedy ’05 has been accepted into the Master of Fine Arts program for graphic design at the Savannah College of Art and Design in Atlanta.

Larissa Gieseke ’05 and husband Roy married on November 5, 2005 after six years of dating. The newlyweds bought a house in July 2007. Larissa began her M.A. degree in April 2007 at Adler Graduate School and hopes to graduate in early 2009 with a degree in marriage and family therapy. She is currently interning at Sioux Trails Mental Health Center in St. Peter, Minn. where she co-facilitates and practices family and individual therapy.

Summer | 2008

Christine Hongerholt ’05 is celebrating the Sept 21, 2006 birth of daughter Sophie Pearl Hongerholt. She was 7lbs., 3oz. and 19 inches long.

18 Amberleigh Jones ’05 and Bradley Rich married on July 7, 2007 at Emanuel Lutheran church in Inver Grove Heights, Minn. They went to Sandals Resort in Montego Bay, Jamaica for their honeymoon. Amberleigh works at the St. Paul Pioneer Press and Brad is finishing school and working full-time in loss prevention for Best Buy. They reside in Inver Grove Heights, Minn.

Jillian Hegstrom ’06 got married on May 20, 2006.

Laura (Golnitz) Kruse ’05 has one child, Chanel Marie, born January 12, 2007.

She also has her National Board Teacher Certification.

Hector Matascastillo ’06 married Trista on March 29. Hector was accepted into Augsburg’s MSW program beginning August 2008.

Amy Peterson ’05 married Bill Peck on October 21, 2006. They are celebrating the birth of her son, Hansen Alexander Peck, born on August 20, 2007.

Jeana (Jopp) Perron ’06 is celebrating the birth of her daughter, Piper Marie Perron, born on June 4, 2006.

Nicholas Rice ’05 married Brytten Hoefs on June 29, 2007. Nicholas has worked at JobDig for 3 years.

Sarah Stumme ’05 earned her Human Resources Certification December 2006.

Philip Zimmermann ’05 married Jenny on August 6, 2004. Jenny is in graduate school in law at the University of Wisconsin.

19 On November 1, 2007, Reena Linke ’06 began her position as director of music at Grace Episcopal Church in Norwood, Mass.

She serves as organist and choir director, while studying at Boston University in the Master of Sacred Music program.

Tawanna Saxton ’06 is pursuing a Ph.D. at Haiden University. She resides in Jamaica, New York.

Erin Adamson ’07 and husband, Greg, celebrate the birth of their daughter, Ela Lindsy, born on June 6, 2007. The Adamsons reside in Fairbank, Iowa where Erin works as and education coordinator for Principal Financial Group in Cedar Falls.

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Alumni News

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20 Elizabeth Jacobson ’07 showed her original art work, “Figura~Flora~Animalia” at the Southern Graphics Conference held at the Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) in Richmond, Va. March 26-30, 2008. In March of 2007, Beth previewed her work in Kansas City and was given a grant to present at the VCU conference in 2008.

In 2007, Jacobson received the Pro Artibus Award at Concordia in recognition of significant contributions and achievements in visual arts.

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Amber (Tavis) Kline ’07 is a coordinator for an after school program called “Draw with Me.” She also does freelance graphic and web design.

Tara (Martin) McMullen ’07 and her husband celebrated their 17th anniversary in May. She has three beautiful children; Siarah (13), Thor (11) and Titan (3).

Kimberly (Beissler) Puleo ’07 earned her Green Belt Certified Lean Sigma.

21 James Sarbacker ’07 and Carolyn (Tschida) Sarbacker were married June 24, 2007 at Christ’s Household of Faith Church in St. Paul. They live and work in the Twin Cities.

Alan Tousley ’07 was promoted from supervisor to quality manager in November 2007.

Jessica (Hauschildt) Worms ’07 is celebrating the birth of baby girl, Megan Ann, on December 12, 2006.

Snapshot of Success Adrian Perryman ’07 continues to live out Concordia’s mission beyond his years as a student.

Through his employment with the Twin Cities-based nonprofit, Admission Possible, Perryman helps make college admission possible for low-income juniors at Central High School in St. Paul, his alma mater.

Perryman has seen first hand the value of a college education and wants others in the community to experience the same. “I believe in giving back to one’s own community,” Perryman said. “Many people have the desire to travel and help other countries but I think you should first start at home— fix your own backyard— plant the seed for change and then you can help elsewhere.”

Perryman helps students with ACT preparation, resumes, essays, and learn about the college experience two times each week after school. “I know that I have made a difference after seeing students’ ACT scores increase by up to 10 points,” Perryman said. “I know that it would have been much more difficult to get access to the college of their dreams without that score.”

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Summer | 2008

Looking Back, Moving Forward

Alumni News

MTEPS Graduates Celebrate Achievements In conjunction with Black History Month, Concordia gathered its Metropolitan Teachers Education Program Selection (MTEPS) graduates to honor them for their achievements. Twenty-five graduates were recognized at the reunion where Concordia’s multicultural choir, Shades of Harmony, and the professional vocal ensemble, Voices of Harmony, provided entertainment for a social hour. Iris Lewis ’75 then told the

inspiring tale of how she overcame gender and ethnic stereotypes to receive her Concordia education through the MTEPS program. She now works for the St. Paul Public School system and is proud to say two of her children have doctorate degrees and her third child is nearing doctorate degree completion. She spoke of her anticipation to see the educational opportunities her nine young grandchildren will have.

MTEPS was developed to help the educationally disadvantaged in the seven-county metro area gain access to higher education in the field of elementary education. Concordia supported the students through personal counseling, tutoring, academic planning and other similar services.

Pictured above: Iris Lewis ’75 speaking to Looking Back, Moving Forward attendees about her journey and how Concordia’s MTEPS program helped her find career success.

Students pictured top left: Jessica Ellis, Jessica Green, Naina Dallas, Shukri Bashir, Najma Osman, Nawal Osman Pictured left: Professional vocal group, Voices of Harmony, performing at Looking Back, Moving Forward event.

Summer | 2008

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St. Paul Society

The benefactors I’ve already met experience great joy in stewarding and sharing God’s abundance for succeeding generations of learners and leaders at Concordia.

Since December, I have been serving as Concordia’s director of planned giving. For a number of years I was an estate planning attorney, where helping clients fulfill their charitable goals was the most rewarding element of my legal practice.

Now I am thrilled to be serving Concordia’s generous supporters by sharing my knowledge and skills to help them plan beneficial legacies.

My aim is to assist the Concordia alumni and friends with personal, confidential estate and gift planning in order to better accomplish their desires and to have a meaningful impact. Thank you for the warm welcome as I begin my service at Concordia University, St. Paul.

For some years Concordia has recognized our planned giving benefactors through the “Heritage Roll of Honor.” After a good bit of thought, I am pleased to introduce the Roll’s updated name: “The St. Paul Society.” We selected St. Paul Society, namesake of Apostle Paul, because it signifies (1) our University’s name, (2) our urban mission, and (3) best of all, our spiritual foundation. The benefactors I’ve already met experience great joy in stewarding and sharing God’s abundance for succeeding generations of learners and leaders at Concordia.

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All persons and families who have made a planned gift commitment are members of the St. Paul Society. How can you become a member?

Contact me and I will be happy to help you plan and create an estate gift, a charitable gift annuity, a charitable trust, or any number of other creative ways to both benefit your loved ones and make a meaningful impact at Concordia University, St. Paul. I can be reached at 651-641-8256 or toll-free at 866-476-9277 and via email at laible@csp.edu.

Blessings to you and I look forward to making your acquaintance in the near future!

Nathan Laible, JD Director of Planned Giving

Summer | 2008

Calendar

Summer and Fall 2008 Calendar Alumni Events

Homecoming Saturday, Sept. 27 Reunions: Academy Class of ’58 Class of ’73 (and ’71-’75) Class of ’83 Football Reunion

Art

Photo Biennial – “Beauty” September 11 – October 8 Closing Reception and CAGC Fall Art Tour Saturday, Oct. 4, 4-8 p.m.

David Feinberg – “Voice to Vision” October 16 – November 12 Voice to Vision Workshop & artist reception Saturday, Oct. 18 Convocation Wednesday, Nov. 5, Noon – 1 p.m.

BEC

Music

Faculty Potpourri Recital Sunday, Sept. 14, 3:30 p.m.

Buetow Music Center Auditorium Faculty Recital Sunday, Oct. 26, 3:30 p.m.

Buetow Music Center Auditorium Instrumental Ensembles Fall Concert Friday, Oct. 31, 7:30 p.m.

Buetow Music Center Auditorium Faculty Recital Sunday, Nov. 9, 3:30 p.m.

Buetow Music Center Auditorium Vocal Jazz/Jazz Ensemble Concert Friday, Nov. 14, 7:30 p.m.

Buetow Music Center Auditorium Christmas Vespers Monday, Dec. 15, 7:30 p.m.

Graebner Memorial Chapel

Summer | 2008

Theatre

Tickets for theatre productions can be purchased through TicketWorks at (651) 209-6689 Monday-Friday 11 a.m.7 p.m. and weekends from noon-4 p.m.

Brides, Bears, Birds, and Borscht: A Festival of Checkhov One-Acts October 16, 17, 18, 7:30 p.m.

October 19, 2 p.m.

Westlund Theatre Written by Anton Chekhov Directed by Michael J. Horejsi A look at the lighter side of the great Russian playwright, Anton Chekhov. From the writer of long-studied and critically acclaimed dramas (Cherry Orchard, The Three Sisters), we’ve selected some of Chekhov’s most hilarious one-act farces, plus a poignant look at a life lived in the theatre. Laughter and memory, always comfortable companions, accompany us on this insightful exploration of what it is to be human.

Amadeus November 20, 21, 22, 7:30 p.m.

Sunday, Nov. 23, 2 p.m.

E.M. Pearson Theatre Written by Peter Shaffer In the late 18th century, Antonio Salieri, court composer for the Emperor of Austria, thought he had the world on a string. God inspired his musical compositions, he had high status at court, life was good indeed. But then along came that thorn in the side, the uncouth, immature, but profoundly talented Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. Salieri was consumed by envy. Shaffer’s play is a fictionalized account of the competition between Salieri and Mozart, revealing two grown men who fight like brothers for their father’s attention and to prove who’s the better composer. Along the way there are moments of riotous laughter, serious drama, and passages of glorious music.

Sports

Visit the athletics website at www.csp.edu/athletics for sports schedules, scores, news, and statistics.

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