TRADITION // PASSION // COMMUNITY // SUCCESS
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BREAKING GROUND BUILDING STARTS ON THE HANSON FA MILY FINE ARTS CENTER
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HIGHER LEARNING COMMISSION UPDATE, PG. 3 GRADUATION 2017, PG. 7 HOMECOMING 2017, PG. 7
FOUNDATION NOTES
CAMPUS NEWS 3 From The President's Desk 3 Higher Learning Commission Update 6 Breaking Ground 7 Graduation Recap 7 Homecoming 2017 8 Faculty & Staff News 14 Student-Athlete Profile: Fernanda Valdes '18 15 New Coaches Join Waldorf 17 Campus Ministry Update
FOUNDATION NEWS 4 Foundation Notes 5 From The Foundation Chair 10 Honors Day 20 Donor Honor Roll
ALUMNI NEWS 12 Student Profile: Abbie Wells '17 16 Student Profile: Christopher Payne '17 18 From Football Player & Cheerleader to President & First Lady 19 Waldorf Alumna Named 2017 Teacher of the Year
STAY IN TOUCH As faithful stewards of our resources and in an effort to go green, please let the Alumni Office know if you prefer not to receive a printed copy of the Waldorf Magazine. A digital copy is available online at waldorf.edu/alumni/waldorf-magazine. The Waldorf Magazine, published each spring and fall, is largely funded by donations to the Waldorf Lutheran College Foundation. We thank you for your continued support and welcome your input for future articles. Please contact the Alumni Office at 641.585.8148 or alumni@waldorf.edu with your ideas. Want to stay connected to the Waldorf alumni? If you do not currently receive the Waldorf monthly e-newsletter and would like to sign up, please email the Alumni Office at alumni@waldorf.edu. VOLUME 114, ISSUE 2
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FALL 2017 MANAGING EDITOR
22 Class Updates 23 In Memoriam 2
WALDORF MAGAZINE // FALL 2017
WEB
ADMISSIONS OFFICE
waldorf.edu waldorffoundation.org waldorf.edu/alumni/waldorf-magazine
admissions@waldorf.edu 641.585.8112 800.292.1903
Kelli Harms EDITOR
Brittany Gibson
waldorf.edu
WALDORF EARNS ACCREDITATION FROM THE HIGHER LEARNING COMMISSION
FROM THE PRESIDENT'S DESK
The Higher Learning Commission (HLC) recently reaffirmed Waldorf University’s accreditation through the years 2026–2027. “We are very pleased that the Higher Learning Commission reaffirmed our accreditation status through the year 2026,” Waldorf University President Dr. Bob Alsop said. “This took a lot of work by many people, and we are very happy with the outcome. We pride ourselves in providing top academic programs, experienced staff and professors, and state-ofthe-art facilities to our students. This reaffirmation by the HLC just confirms that we are moving in the right direction and are providing quality educational opportunities to both our residential and online students.” The HLC also approved Waldorf’s request to offer the Master of Arts in healthcare management and Master of Arts in education, effective teacher. “The addition of these two programs will help solidify Waldorf as a top-notch provider of master-level education,” Dr. Alsop said. “We plan to implement these programs over two years, with the effective teacher master’s students enrolling this fall and healthcare management students enrolling in fall of 2018. They will be great additions to our current master’s program, the Master of Arts in organizational leadership.” The Higher Learning Commission is one of seven regional accreditors in the United States with responsibilities for ensuring the quality of higher education institutions. Accreditation decisions are made based on five criteria that measure an institution’s effectiveness in teaching and learning, finances, student retention and completion, governance and long-range planning. Waldorf University has been accredited by the Higher Learning Commission since 1948. waldorf.edu
There’s an old saying that goes “Chop your own wood and it will warm you twice.” While reading through the stories of triumph, perseverance and dedication in this issue of the Waldorf Magazine, I couldn’t think of a more fitting adage. When I look back at all of the changes that our university has made over the past few years—transitioning from Waldorf College to Waldorf University, adding an entire group of Waldorf online students, building upon our academic programs and adding a number of new faces to our faculty and staff—I realize that we were busy chopping wood, preparing for the days to come. That day is now. Jumping into the fall semester, we are glad to have students back on campus. There’s nothing quite like a fall morning buzzing with new Warriors. Meanwhile, our online students haven’t missed a beat as they have been taking classes throughout the summer. Something else that hasn’t missed a beat is the tremendous progress that our students have made. In this issue, you will read about students and professors who have overcome incredible odds, reached milestones, surpassed records and earned deserving awards. And you’ll hear from the selfless folks who’ve made it possible through their generous donations to the Waldorf Foundation. One story sheds a light on the recent mission trip that campus ministry took to Providence, Rhode Island—a journey that was just as uplifting for our students as it was for those they served. As Peyton Russell ’18 put it, “The only thing I could think of is how grateful and blessed I was to be there for her.
Little did she know that her story changed my life!” That’s the beauty of service learning and why it’s an integral part of the Waldorf mission: When you spend time serving others, you usually end up receiving a blessing yourself, warming your heart and your neighbor’s. Perhaps one of the most astounding stories from this year is one from our 2017 Commencement ceremony. This May, Waldorf not only honored its first official Waldorf University class, but also graduated a record 748 students. To put it in perspective, this year’s graduating class had more than 50 percent more students than the class of 2016. Another area of Waldorf that’s experiencing growth is the Waldorf campus. This past April, we broke ground on the new Hanson Family Fine Arts Center. This new facility will boast a 29,743 square foot amenity to not only host our university performances, but also those of surrounding local theater groups, providing a new space for community, fellowship and fun. These stories and many more are sure to warm your heart and will hopefully ignite a little spark in you. Besides, no matter how much Waldorf has grown since you’ve graduated, you can rest assured that we are still the same university. Except now, we are on fire. Sincerely,
Robert A. Alsop, Ph. D. Waldorf University President FALL 2017 // WALDORF MAGAZINE
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FOUNDATION NOTES
FROM FEAR TO FLOURISHING In each article, I always try to include a family story. It’s my way of connecting with you, members of my Waldorf family. I’d like to share a story about our 15-year-old grandson, Josh. Recently, we learned that Josh had serious heart issues and had to undergo heart ablation surgery at St. Mary’s Hospital in Rochester, Minnesota. The morning of his surgery, as my husband and I were heading to the hospital to sit with our son Jesse and his wife Melanie, suddenly those dreaded “what if” questions hit me. “What if something goes terribly wrong with the surgery?” “What if they can’t find the problem or fix it?” “What if Josh is told he can never play basketball again?” (He loves to play basketball!) As those dreaded questions passed through my mind, tears rolled down my cheeks. I turned to my husband and said “Look at me. I’m a blubbering mess and I’m supposed to be there to support Jesse and Melanie.” When we reached the hospital and shared the story of my meltdown, Jesse turned to me and said, “Mom, we’re putting you in a different room.” (Fortunately, I had regained my composure and was allowed to stay!) We’re glad to report that none of my “what ifs” came to fruition. Josh came through almost six hours of surgery with flying colors—and his future is bright.
His passion for playing basketball can be fulfilled. When one cares deeply about someone or something, it’s not uncommon to react the way I did. In fact, I had the same reaction several years ago, during Waldorf’s acquisition. But just as my fears never materialized for Josh, Waldorf’s haven’t either. In fact, Waldorf University is thriving. It’s an exciting time to be a Warrior! Within these pages, you’ll learn more about our campus ministry program—which, according to a religion professor, has never been stronger. You’ll also read about Honors Day, the groundbreaking at the new Hanson Family Fine Arts Center, a record-setting graduation and stories of our residential and online alumni. Woven through these pages are stories that will make you proud to be a Waldorf alum. Also among these pages are the foundation’s Honor Roll of donors for the 2016–17 fiscal year. Gifts provided by these donors helped our campus ministry program flourish, provided scholarships to many Waldorf students, gave us an opportunity to hold alumni gatherings and helped publish the Waldorf Magazine. Thank you for your generous support—it is greatly appreciated!
Lastly, we also ask that you keep Waldorf in your daily prayers. Help us spread the word to young people who are looking at higher education opportunities. Tell them about Waldorf and share your story with them. Encourage them to experience Waldorf for themselves, whether it be on campus or through our online program. We have a great story to tell at Waldorf and we appreciate your help doing it. Sincerely,
Nancy Olson Director of Institutional Relations Waldorf Lutheran College Foundation
The Waldorf Magazine—a combined effort of the Waldorf Lutheran College Foundation and Waldorf University— is published for alumni and friends of Waldorf University. Please help us keep our records up-to-date by notifying the foundation if you have moved, changed your name or updated your email address. Contact Janet Berhow at berhowj@waldorf.edu or 641.585.8140.
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Waldorf University 106 South 6th Street Forest City, IA 50436
Janet Berhow
Nancy Olson, CFRE
641.585.2450 // 800.292.1903
Database and Gift Processing Manager
Director of Institutional Relations
Waldorf University/Waldorf Lutheran College Foundation
Waldorf University/Waldorf Lutheran College Foundation
WALDORF MAGAZINE // FALL 2017
waldorf.edu
A LETTER FROM THE FOUNDATION CHAIR
Dear Friends, In my role with the Waldorf Foundation, I have been fortunate to get acquainted with many Waldorf students. In past letters, I have talked about their “Waldorf experiences.” Each has his or her own thoughts about this “experience,” but somewhere in our conversations, many of them refer to it as “life-changing.” In my years with the Waldorf Foundation, I haven’t gotten to meet as many alumni as I would like, but those I have gotten to know have left an impression. In this letter, I’d like to introduce you to a wonderful couple who met at Waldorf College, and after 57 years of marriage, continue to bleed purple, sharing a mutual love for Waldorf University. I first met Bill Johnson ’58 and Mary (Carlson) Johnson ’58 of Belmond, Iowa, several years ago at one of Waldorf’s annual Honors Day events. During that occasion, I spoke about my work with the foundation and my take on the Waldorf experience. After the event, Bill approached me and told me that my speech was right on. We have been friends from that point forward. Recently, on a beautiful summer morning, I was invited to Bill and Mary’s home to share conversation, coffee and pastries. Bill and Mary have a lovely home, and we sat at the dining room table where we were able to look out on their beautiful backyard. It was a glorious setting with wonderful people.
We had an amazing conversation about their 60-year involvement with Waldorf. Bill was inspired to attend Waldorf by the Rev. Perry Sampson, his pastor at the Kanawha Lutheran Church. Bill believes God led him to Waldorf and recalls the great religion teachers he had. His religion professors instilled greater knowledge of God's word and strengthened his faith, which has been the guiding force in his life. Bill's time at Waldorf was interrupted when he was drafted into the service, but he returned to Waldorf after his service was completed. It was then that he met the love of his life, Mary. It’s that moment that he says is the thing that he thanks Waldorf for the most. Bill and Mary both graduated in 1958 and they were married in 1960. They have lived in Belmond all of their adult lives, where Bill had a very long and successful career with the Lutheran Brotherhood. Bill talks about the many lasting friendships he developed at Waldorf and how those friendships have had a positive influence on his life. Their love for and dedication to Waldorf has continued unabated through their three daughters. Two of them, Susan and Sally, graduated from Waldorf and cherish the education they received. Their third daughter Melanie attended schools in Des Moines and Rochester, Minnesota, to pursue a nursing career. Bill has served on the Board of Regents for 12 years, has been awarded the Alumni
Distinguished Service Award and has served as president of the Waldorf Association of Congregations while Mary has served many years on our Alumni board. Both have provided funding for many scholarships over the years, which initially were in memory of their parents, Oscar and Nora Johnson and Walter and Solveig Carlson. They have donated several gifts, including a grand piano and harpsichord to the Music Department and are responsible for two of the things I love most on the Waldorf campus: the gazebo and Thor— the beautiful, sculptured Viking who triumphantly stands guard over the Waldorf campus. Like so many Waldorf alums, Bill and Mary have committed to a lifetime of service, building Waldorf experiences for others and changing lives. Please consider supporting our foundation so we can carry on the lifetime of service tradition like Bill and Mary. Sincerely,
Raymond M. Beebe Chair, Waldorf Lutheran College Foundation Retired Vice President, General Counsel Secretary Winnebago Industries, Inc. 1974–2012
Pictured from left to right: Bill Johnson ’58, Mary (Carlson) Johnson ’58 and Raymond Beebe
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CAMPUS NEWS
BUILDING STARTS ON THE HANSON FA MILY FINE ARTS CENTER
BREAKING GROUND
With a roll of the dirt, another milestone was added to Waldorf’s history. The groundbreaking of the new Hanson Family Fine Arts Center took place on April 7, 2017— which, fittingly, was Fine Arts Weekend on campus.
The Hanson Family Fine Arts Center is a 29,743 square foot, two-story, $10 million state-of-the-art fine arts facility. When completed in the fall of 2018, the facility will be used for university and local theater group performances, as well as regional and national touring groups. “We had many prospective students and their families on campus for Fine Arts Weekend, so the groundbreaking was the
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perfect way to show them the importance we place on fine arts at Waldorf,” said Waldorf University President Dr. Bob Alsop.
The state-of-the-art facility includes amenities and technology including a proscenium stage, full-fly rigging system, orchestra pit and an auditorium that seats more than 600 people. The lobby provides a natural backdrop for visual art displays and houses the box office. “As I go across the country recruiting fine arts students for Waldorf University and I see cuts in programs and funding for the arts, I am encouraged by the commitment of the community to support this
WALDORF MAGAZINE // FALL 2017
new facility,” said Dr. Bob AuFrance, director of fine arts and professor of theater at Waldorf University. “It is so rare to have such a rural community actively express how important the arts are in our everyday life. This facility will help provide continued growth for our fine arts students in the public schools as well as our students at the university.” As excited as everyone is about the new fine arts facility, Smith Theatre will still house many campus performances. “Smith Theatre will also be our home, but the new Fine Arts Center gives us an opportunity to do larger shows in a more crowd-friendly space,” said Dr. AuFrance.
“I think it’s going to be great for students,” said Abbie Wells ’17, special assistant to the Theatre Department. “It will give students more opportunities to work with advanced technologies and space. From the modified thrust arena in the Smith Theatre to the proscenium stage at the new Fine Arts Center, students will have a full range of theater experiences.” For updates on the Fine Arts Center, visit the Waldorf Facebook page. If you’re interested in donating to the new Fine Arts Center, please contact Nancy Olson at 641.585.8147 or olsonn@waldorf.edu.
waldorf.edu
CAMPUS NEWS SATURDAY, OCT. 21, 2017 REGISTRATION ATRIUM LOBBY
WALDORF BOOKSTORE OPEN
8:30a– 12:30p 9a– 4:30p
VOSS HALL
LUISE V. HANSON LIBRARY & ARCHIVES OPEN
9a–5p
SECOND FLOOR
WALDORF GRANTS RECORD NUMBER OF DEGREES Warrior Graduates Grow 51% Since 2016 Waldorf University granted degrees to 748 graduates during its Commencement exercises on May 6, 2017. This was a record number of graduates, up 51 percent from 495 graduates in 2016. “Waldorf University was honored to recognize its graduates, both residential and online, at our ceremonies in May,” said Waldorf University President Dr. Bob Alsop. “This was a monumental year in that this was the first class to graduate from Waldorf University and it is our largest—up over 50 percent from last year.” Waldorf conferred degrees to 105 residential students and 643 online
HOMECOMING PARADE
10a
ALL-CLASS ALUMNI LUNCHEON
11a
ATRIUM 50th Class Reunion Lunch:
students. Associate of Arts, Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Science, Bachelor of Applied Science and Master of Arts degrees were granted. Two students were honored with the President’s Award, the highest distinction given to a residential graduate. This year’s recipients were Abbie Wells from Lake View, Iowa, and Caleb Gilbertson from Hayfield, Minnesota.
CLASS OF 1967
11a
SALVESON BALLROOM
TAILGATE PARTY BOLSTORFF FIELD
COMMUNICATIONS DEPARTMENT BBQ
11a–1p
11:15a
OUTSIDE ATRIUM ENTRANCE
HOMECOMING FOOTBALL GAME Waldorf vs. Mayville State BOLSTORFF FIELD
ART & CRAFT FAIR SALVESON LOBBY
Forest City native Dean Borg was this year’s Commencement keynote speaker. Borg is a veteran Iowa journalist that has appeared on Iowa Public Television for more than four decades.
ALUMNI BOARD MEETING ATRIUM CONFERENCE ROOM
1p
1–4p
2–3p
WARRIOR UPDATE
3–4p
ALUMNI CHOIR SING-A-LONG
4–5p
RECITAL HALL
WOMEN'S SOCCER
HOMECOMING 2017 World Wide Warrior Pride: Oct. 20–22 Boasting a rich tradition of diversity among our students and faculty, Waldorf is proud to have hosted students from all over the globe—more than 30 countries to be exact. This year’s Homecoming theme, World Wide Warrior Pride, is an homage to our diverse student population, celebrating the best of Waldorf, no matter where in the world we are. Join us Oct. 20–22, 2017 for a weekend of festivities.
Waldorf vs. University of Jamestown BOLSTORFF FIELD
FRIDAY, OCT. 20, 2017 WARRIOR CROSSING OPEN ATRIUM
LUISE V. HANSON LIBRARY & ARCHIVES OPEN
7a–9p
8a–5p
9a– 4:30p 4p– 5:30p
WARRIOR GATHERINGS
5p–8p
ATHLETIC HALL OF FAME INDUCTION BANQUET
5:30p
SALVESON BALLROOM
CANDIDATE REVIEW ATRIUM
WARRIOR BONFIRE PEP FEST & CORONATION FIELDHOUSE SOUTH PARKING LOT
WALDORF HOMECOMING MUSIC CONCERT
5:30p
7p
IMMANUEL LUTHERAN CHURCH
SALVESON LOBBY
PADDLER’S TAP, SHOOTERZ, THE LODGE
WORLD WIDE BUFFET ATRIUM
VOSS HALL
REGISTRATION
5p
SALVESON BALLROOM
SECOND FLOOR
WALDORF BOOKSTORE OPEN
ALUMNI DISTINGUISHED SERVICE AWARD RECOGNITION
5p
MEN'S SOCCER Waldorf vs. University of Jamestown BOLSTORFF FIELD
SUNDAY, OCT. 22, 2017 HOMECOMING WORSHIP SERVICE
9p
7p
9:15a
IMMANUEL LUTHERAN CHURCH
9:45p
MUSICAL THEATRE SHOWCASE
2p
SMITH THEATRE
Events and times are preliminary and may be subject to change. For more information, please call the alumni office at 641.585.8148 or email alumni@waldorf.edu.
VISIT US ONLINE TO VIEW THE FULL HOMECOMING SCHEDULE OF ACTIVITIES & REGISTER FOR EVENTS: WALDORF.EDU/HOMECOMING waldorf.edu
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CAMPUS NEWS
FACULTY & STAFF
FACULTY & STAFF HONORS Waldorf University honored its faculty and staff on May 5, 2017 for years of service at Waldorf and through dedicated award categories.
5 YEARS OF SERVICE ELZIE MORTON ANDERSON
Associate Head Football Coach
KENT ANDERSON
Head Football Coach
TYREECE GILDER Women’s Wrestling Head Coach SHAUN MCGUIRE
Assistant Baseball Coach
10 YEARS OF SERVICE RYAN FLICKINGER
Associate Director of Admissions/Director of Athletic Recruiting
NICOLLE FLUGUM
Dining Room Manager
DAWN RAMAKER
Professor of Business
JOSHUA SHANKLAND
Maintenance
Associate Professor of Wellness Conferences & Dining Services
15 YEARS OF SERVICE
KRISTIN WEMPEN
45 YEARS OF SERVICE DENNY JEROME
DAVID RASK BEHLING
ACHIEVE PROFESSIONAL EXCELLENCE AWARD (HOLMEN)
DR. LARRY HILL
Associate Director of Graduate Studies, Online Business Program Director, Assistant Professor
20 YEARS OF SERVICE
ANNE MARIE WERTHMANN
Conferences & Dining Services
BETSY YAROS
Adjunct Online Faculty
PHUOC “LUCKY” TRUONG
Director of Athletics
Director of the Academic Achievement Center for Excellence Area Coordinator, Campus Ministry Coordinator
DAWN JOHNSON
DR. ROBERT AUFRANCE
Assistant Professor of English, Associate Dean of Accreditation
DEAN SWENSON
NANCY OLSON
Director of Institutional Relations
MELISSA REYNOLDS
KATIE SCHUTJER
Art Gallery Director and Instructor of Art
30 YEARS OF SERVICE
35 YEARS OF SERVICE
Assistant Dean of Fine Arts, Professor of Theatre
Women’s Head Basketball Coach
DEBBE NELSON
Accounts Payable Manager
Human Resources Manager
JERI RAYFIELD
Online Admissions Counselor
25 YEARS OF SERVICE
DEBBE NELSON
Accounts Payable Manager
ACHIEVE COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARD (HOLMEN) SHARESE HALL
DEB BERTELSEN
Area Coordinator/First-Year Experience Coordinator
Assistant to the President
CINDY CARTER
ACHIEVE ONLINE FACULTY EXCELLENCE AWARD (VIKING)
MARY REISETTER
Online Adjunct Professor
Director of Career Planning
DR. DEBRA LINDH
ACHIEVEMENT AS BOARD OF TRUSTEE FACULTY OF THE YEAR DR. KRISTIN JONINA TAYLOR
Associate Professor of Music
RETIREMENTS LINDA HARMS DEBBE NELSON PHUOC “LUCKY” TRUONG
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CAMPUS NEWS
FACULTY & STAFF
16 TIM BASCOM, assistant professor of English and director of creative writing, has earned tenure at Waldorf University, promoting him to associate professor. Bascom has been a member of the faculty at Waldorf University since August 2013. “We are extremely proud to have someone of Tim’s caliber teaching at Waldorf University,” said Dr. Vince Beach, vice president of academic affairs. “Tim plays an instrumental role in advancing our creative writing activities by spearheading the Waldorf University Distinguished Writers Series, The Waldorf Literary Review and the annual Top of Iowa Conference high school writing contest. Students pursuing writing as a career benefit not only from Tim’s educational background but from his wealth of experience.” Bascom holds a Master of Fine Arts in creative writing from the University of Iowa, a Master of Arts in English literature from the University of Kansas, and a Bachelor of Arts in English literature from Wheaton College.
waldorf.edu
ADAM BUEHLER ‘16 has joined Waldorf University as a financial aid counselor. In his new position, Buehler is responsible for assisting students and families with financial aid requirements and awarding financial aid to new and returning online students. Buehler earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in banking and finance from Waldorf College.
73 DR. PAUL BARTELT became president of the Iowa Academy of Science at its annual meeting in April 2017. The academy is a collection of Iowa scientists and Iowa science educators who are dedicated to advancing scientific research, promoting science literacy and education in Iowa and providing a venue for college students to communicate their findings to Iowa's scientists. Dr. Bartelt served on the academy's board of directors from 2001-07, served as president from 2004-07 and chaired and served on a number of its committees. He is looking forward to serving again.
C. DAVID RUTT, interim director of instrumental activities, was honored at the 2017 North Iowa Band Festival, May 25-29, 2017 in Mason City. Rutt received the Band Masters Award, an award presented to a retiring band master in recognition of outstanding work with young musicians over the years. In addition to his teaching schedule at Waldorf, Rutt has taught instrumental music for 35 years, including 24 at Forest City High School.
Waldorf hockey coach BRETT SHELANSKI and his wife Ashley welcomed daughter Riley Jean Feb. 2, 2017. Riley Jean joins big sister, Harper.
HALLIE ERDAHL has joined Waldorf University as director of student activities and Breen area coordinator. In her new position, Erdahl is responsible for planning student events on campus, as well as overseeing students living in Breen Hall. Erdahl earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in apparel, merchandising and design from Iowa State University.
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MICHAEL FERCH ’16 has joined Waldorf University as a records coordinator in the registrar department. In his new position, Ferch is responsible for maintaining residential student records and transcript requests. Ferch earned a Bachelor of Science degree in education with a minor in Spanish from Waldorf University in December 2016.
DAVID DAMM ’73, professor of communications, was named Alpha Chi Professor of the Year at Honors Day 2017. Alpha Chi is a national college honor society whose membership is limited to the top 10 percent of an institution’s juniors, seniors and graduate students. Alpha Chi president Caitlyn Rusk ’17 presented Damm with the award.
GARY COOMBS, associate professor of biology, participated in the FUTURE in Biomedicine program at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics this summer. The FUTURE program invites a researcher from another institution in the state to spend eight weeks working with a UI faculty member on a funded research project. Coombs and UI biochemistry professor Lori Wallrath used fruit flies to model a rare form of muscular dystrophy caused by mutations in Lamin genes.
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CAMPUS NEWS
Honors Day 2017
230+ Scholarships Awarded to Current Waldorf Students Wednesday, April 5, 2017 was a historic day, Waldorf’s first Honors Day. On this special day of recognition for academic achievements, more than 230 scholarships were awarded to current Waldorf students. Students had an opportunity to meet donors, learn about the history of their scholarships and personally thank the donors for their support. President Alsop shared remarks on the state of the university and student body president Caleb Gilbertson shared his Waldorf experience with the crowd. He also thanked the donors on behalf of all the scholarship recipients and shared how much the scholarships meant to them. Musical pieces provided by the Waldorf Choir and the Wind Ensemble were enjoyed at both the chapel service and Honors Day program. Special recognition was given to the following scholarships awarded for the first time:
Adrian and Shirley Ploegstra Scholarship The Adrian and Shirley Ploegstra Scholarship was established in 2016 by Adrian Ploegstra ’58 and Shirley Sande Ploegstra ’58. This scholarship is to be awarded to a student majoring in education and demonstrating financial need.
Betty Gollnik Scholarship The Betty Gollnik Scholarship was established in 2016 by Betty Gollnik ’49. This scholarship is to be awarded to a returning Christian (Protestant) student participating in either vocal or instrumental music and demonstrating financial need.
Churness-Moen Scholarship The Churness-Moen Scholarship was established in 2016 by Paul Churness ’75 and Margit Moen Churness ’75. This scholarship is to be awarded to a student involved in Waldorf’s music program.
Class of 1961 Scholarship The Class of 1961 Scholarship was established in 2016 in honor of their 55th class reunion. This scholarship is to be awarded to a student with financial need.
Class of 1966 Scholarship The Class of 1966 Scholarship was established in 2016 in celebration of their 50th class reunion. This scholarship is to be awarded to a student with financial need.
Class of 1991 Scholarship The Class of 1991 Scholarship was established in 2016 in honor of their 25th class reunion. This scholarship is to be awarded to a student with financial need. 10
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Communications Department Scholarship The Communications Department Scholarship was established in 2016 by its members. This scholarship is awarded to a returning student majoring in communications.
David Pitcher Memorial Scholarship The David Pitcher Memorial Scholarship was established in 2016. A big supporter of the Waldorf Warrior baseball team for many years, this scholarship is to be given to a baseball player.
FCHS/Waldorf Alumni Scholarship The FCHS/Waldorf Alumni Scholarship was established in 2016 by Brian Chisholm ’02 and Thomas Faber ’02. This scholarship is to be awarded to a Forest City High School graduate.
Ingvoldstad Family Scholarship The Involdstad Family Scholarship was established in 2016 by Helen Ingvoldstad. This scholarship is to be awarded to a student in good standing with financial need.
John C. Gertenrich, Jr. Scholarship The John C. Gertenrich, Jr. Scholarship was established in 2016 by John (Jack) Gertenrich, Jr. ’53. Jack served as an assistant professor in mathematics at Waldorf in the late ’60s. First preference is to award this scholarship to a math student and second preference is to award it to a student on the golf team.
Pastor Philip and Marilyn Peters Scholarship The Pastor Philip and Marilyn Peters Scholarship was established in 2016 by Philip and Marilyn. Philip served as dean of students and director of development at Waldorf and Marilyn served as the director of church relations. This scholarship is to be awarded first to a student preparing to go into the ministry or second, to a student involved in campus ministry.
Ron Sime Memorial Scholarship The Ron Sime Memorial Scholarship was established in 2016 by Ron’s wife, Nancy Sime. His scholarship is to be awarded to a softball player with the highest GPA who demonstrates financial need.
Women of Trinity, Mason City, Iowa Scholarship The Women of Trinity, Mason City, Iowa Scholarship was established in 2106 by the women of Trinity Lutheran Church. It is to be awarded to a Lutheran student with a GPA of 3.25 and above. waldorf.edu
Dr. Cynthia Ryder ‘14 and Caitlyn Rusk ’18; Mary Ella Wiese Memorial Scholarship
Dr. Rebecca (Steffensen) Hill ‘73, Sheila Willms, Kaylie Brindley ’18, Dr. Kristen Berg and Daryl Sherman; Outstanding Future Educator Fund
Bob Johnson ‘54 and Kelsey Sederquest ’20; O.J. Johnson Scholarship
Rolf Anderson ’72 and Jordan Smith ’20; Donald and Charlotte Anderson Scholarship Fund
Kevin Scharper ’78 and Marcel Lindner ‘20; Class of 1978 Scholarship
Joan Beebe, Jimmy Blankenship ‘19 and Ray Beebe; Raymond M. and Joan P. Beebe Scholarship
Oscar Valencia ’18 and Esther (Alfseike) Rasmussen ’53; Rasmussen Encouragement Award
Tim Flugum, Kristy Brunsvold ’18, Mackenzie Droessler ’18 and Gwen Plantage; Frank and Anna Banta Endowed Scholarship
Ken Hansen, Arthur Teater ’20 and Joan Hansen; Ken and Joan Hansen Scholarship
Andrea Wrage, Tara Millard ’18 and Bob Wrage; Ethel Marie Hanson Saltou Scholarship and Celia Ramsay Scholarship
Jacquelyn Imsande ’17 and Jane Sansgaard-Ward ’71; Alan Sansgaard Memorial Scholarship
Becky (Hermanson) Fjeld ’77, Ruth Hermanson, Lauren Babcock ’18, Kelsey Sheldahl ‘20 and Nancy (Bergland) Olson ’75; Bergland Family Scholarship and Walter and Evelyn Bergland Memorial Scholarship
Dr. Suzanne Falck-Yi and Lourdes Faletagoai ‘21; English Department Scholarship
Audrey (Holtan) Olmstead ’68 and Taylor Fricke ‘19; Stanford and Ruth Holtan Endowed Scholarship
Nicole Flynn ‘19, Norma and James Adams and Brooke Hagen ’18; Maevis Adams Memorial Scholarship
Karen (Flugum) Johns ’68, Marissa Widener ’20 and Wayne Johns; Karen and Wayne Johns Mathematics Scholarship
Jason Ramaker, Patricia German Molina ’19 and Caleb Gilbertson ’17; Student Senate Scholarship
Anton Kudej ’18 and Mary Beth Wooldridge ’65; Seth Wooldridge Endowed Memorial Scholarship
Jan (Shurson) Anderson ’72 and Austin Burton ‘19; Anderson Music Scholarship
O. Ardelle (Brosdahl) Osnes ’48 and Madison Carlisle ‘20; Class of 1948 Scholarship
O. Ardelle (Brosdahl) Osnes ’48, Elizabeth Carlton ‘18 and BJ Osnes Overlie ’60; Osnes Family Scholarship
Sheila (Monson) Davis ’73, Marlys (Holtan) Andersen ’73, Maggie Kretzmann ‘18, Carol (Quina) Bergland ’73 and Marcia (Hill) Haugen ’73; Second Orm Scholarship
Beverly (Peterson) Page ’57, Elizabeth Carlton ‘18, Carol (Peterson) Edwards ’55, Virgil Peterson ’59; Stella L. Peterson Memorial Scholarship
Daniel Hernandez Lopez ’17 and Ann McKinney; Howard and Verna Thoresen Scholarship
Connie (Nilssen) Nyhus ’58, Luke Zacharias ’17 and Harvey Nyhus; M.O. Nilssen Scholarship Fund
Joseph Katinas ‘20 and Betty Gollnik; Betty Gollnik Scholarship
Scott Pitcher ’93 and Riley MacDonald ‘18; David Pitcher Memorial Scholarship
Philip Wold, Dakota Brass ‘19, Ruth Wold, Miriam (Wold) Pedersen ’68 and Keith Pedersen ’68; Pastor Palmer and Ruth Wold Scholarship
Nancy Farndale and Samuel Morrison ‘17; Ruth and Jacob Lee Scholarship
Deborah Nivyimana ‘18, Denise (Lenning) Hill ’90 and Eno Lomo-Mainoo ’18; Larry Lenning Scholarship
Denise (Lenning) Hill ’90 and Ashley Andersen ’17; Trygve Lenning Family Endowed Scholarship
Back row L to R: Mark Newcom, Tiffany (Blome) Olson ’98, David Damm ’73; Front Row L to R: Carlos Ruiz ’14, Danica Cheney ’18, Heather Yeoman; Communications Department Scholarship
CAMPUS NEWS When Abbie speaks of her experience at Waldorf, she talks of the relationships that she’s built, family and the “hidden gems” that made her time at Waldorf special— like knowing the best viewing spots in the theatre or the best hallways with the greatest acoustics. As one professor writes, “If ever a student embodied the best of Waldorf, it is Abbie Wells. This blessed young lady bleeds purple.” To students thinking of coming to Waldorf, this is Abbie’s advice: “Waldorf is a place to prosper. There are so many opportunities and activities to give a chance for adventure. They care about you, your success and your life. You find it all the time.” Abbie is currently working on her master’s degree in organizational leadership from Waldorf University’s online program.
Student Profile ABBIE WELLS—A LEADING LADY ON AND OFF THE STAGE Abbie Wells ’17 came to Waldorf University on a campus visit with a friend. She was “along for the ride” as they say, but what she found was home. “I fell in love with the campus and the atmosphere,” Abbie said. “The community and the opportunities excited me.” Abbie graduated this May with her bachelor’s and is staying at Waldorf to be a graduate assistant in the theatre department. “To say the theatre department is happy that Abbie is staying is an
2017–2018
Originally from Lake View, Iowa, Abbie took advantage of opportunities presented to her and jumped in with both feet. The theatre program was a clear fit for Abbie. She participated in every single Waldorf theatrical production during her undergrad years—15 in four years.
OTHELLO NOVEMBER 15–18, 2017
Besides her leading roles on the stage, Abbie wrote for “The Lobbyist,” “The Torch” and “The Waldorf Literary Review.” She held multiple leadership positions on campus, including president of the choir, president of Alpha Epsilon Omega and vice president of the Gay/Straight Alliance. Abbie was also presented the President’s Award during graduation. “Abbie is not only an outstanding student, but a role model on and off campus. She has proven to be determined, studious and a true leader,” said President Alsop.
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THEATRE LINEUP
understatement,” said Dr. Bob AuFrance, director and professor of theatre. “Abbie is a true talent and embodies everything that Waldorf is: tradition, passion, community and success.”
THE ODD COUPLE SEPTEMBER 20–23, 2017 MUSICAL THEATRE SHOWCASE OCTOBER 22–23, 2017
LEAVING IOWA FEBURARY 14–17, 2018 RENT OR AMERICAN IDIOT APRIL 11–14, 2018 All performances will be held in the Smith Theatre beginning at 7:30 p.m. nightly, unless otherwise noted.
INDIVIDUAL TICKET PRICES Adults . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $10 Seniors & Students (non-Waldorf) . . $8 Waldorf Students . . . . . . . . . $2
SEASON TICKETS Adults . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $35 Seniors & Students (non-Waldorf) . . $28 Waldorf Students . . . . . . . . . $8 To order tickets or for more information, please contact Dr. Robert AuFrance at aufrancer@ waldorf.edu or call 641.585.8288.
waldorf.edu
MASTER your CLASSROOM
Earn Your Master of Arts in Education Effective Teacher Degree Online with Waldorf University
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CAMPUS NEWS
Student-ATHLETE Profile MEET FERNANDA VALDES Women’s Golf Swings Forward With Valdes’ Leadership A year before Fernanda Valdes arrived on campus from Morelia, Mexico, Waldorf did not have a women’s golf team. Through hard work and Valdes’ consistent performance on the golf course, she’s not only helped put the program back on the map, but she’s also transformed Warrior women’s golf into a highlycompetitive team. In fact, during Valdes’ first three seasons, she captured eight individual titles while leading the Warriors to 11 team championships and eight runner-up finishes. A three-time first-team allconference performer, Valdes garnered all-conference recognition from the Midlands 14
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Collegiate Athletic Conference (MCAC) during her debut season with the Warriors and was named the MCAC Freshman of the Year. She’s continued her streak of success, earning all-conference honors from the North Star Athletic Association (NSAA) for the past two years. Valdes also helped Waldorf to a third-place finish in the NSAA championships this year as the Warriors turned in a 1,395-stroke total while closing out the final two rounds of the cumulative 72-hole conference tournament. Notching a third consecutive first-team all-conference performance, Valdes claimed third after she shot a 38-over-par
score of 324—just eight strokes behind the conference champion. The golf course isn’t the only place where Valdes excels. She was honored as an NAIA ScholarAthlete this season and is a two-time NSAA Scholar-Athlete. On campus, Valdes is a member of Waldorf’s biology club and the university’s World Student Association. She will graduate with a degree in biology next spring and plans to pursue her doctorate in genetics. In her final year at Waldorf, Valdes looks to continue her impressive play on the course by taking aim at a conference title and a trip to nationals.
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CAMPUS NEWS
NEW COACHES JOIN WALDORF Waldorf University’s Athletic Department has quite a few new faces this year.
five-match winning streak, the longest as a four-year program.
“We are excited to welcome Josh, Bri and Kayla to the Waldorf family and to promote Edgar and Alexandria to head coaching positions,” said Denny Jerome, athletic director. “I’m confident these five coaches will grow amazing programs that feature our standout student athletes.”
The Warriors posted a 2-1-1 mark in the North Star Athletic Association (NSAA) play to earn the no. 2 seed in the NSAA Tournament for the second straight season. They also advanced to the title match, Waldorf's first conference championship match appearance since joining the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA). Seven Warrior players garnered all-conference recognition, including four first-team all-conference selections.
BRI EBENHOE Head Volleyball Coach Ebenhoe spent the past seven years as head coach at Aquinas High School where she led the Blugolds to the Wisconsin Interscholastic Athletic Association Division III state tournament and produced the best set record in Mississippi Valley Conference (MVC) history during the 2016 season. During her tenure at Aquinas, the Blugolds captured five regional championships and the 2016 sectional title. Aquinas claimed MVC championships in 2014 and 2016, resulting in her being honored as MVC Coach of the Year during both seasons. In addition, she was named as the 2014 La Crosse Tribune Coach of the Year. Ebenhoe, who taught middle school and high school science since 2009, has also coached the V-Hawk Xtreme—a 14-and-under club volleyball team—at Viterbo University since 2010.
EDGAR GONZAGA Men’s Head Soccer Coach Gonzaga has served as the assistant coach for the Warriors the past two years. Last season marked a historic campaign for the Warriors, who closed out the year strong with a 12-6-1 record to establish the first winning season since becoming a fouryear program. Waldorf strung together a
waldorf.edu
ALEXANDRIA JACKSON Women’s Head Soccer Coach Jackson has served as assistant coach for the Warriors during the past three years. She helped Waldorf make significant strides during the 2016 season, recording five consecutive shutouts to set a new school record and established the program’s longest unbeaten streak in the process. Three Waldorf players claimed second-team all-conference honors from the NSAA last season. The team’s goalkeepers also set a new school record for consecutive shutout minutes, holding opponents scoreless for 552 minutes, 38 seconds in a span from Aug. 31, 2016 to Oct. 26, 2016.
KAYLA KREGEL Men’s & Women’s Cross Country/Track and Field Kregel joins the Warriors after spending two years as an assistant coach at NCAA Division III’s Penn State Erie, The Behrend College in Erie, Pennsylvania. At Penn State Behrend, she helped guide the men’s and women’s cross country teams to back-to-back Allegheny Mountain Collegiate Conference titles. The Lions
captured two more conference titles, sweeping the Colonial States Athletic Conference Outdoor Track and Field Championships in 2017. Kregel was named Women’s Assistant Coach of the Year in 2016 by the United States Track & Field and Cross Country Coaches Association, NCAA Division III Mideast Region. Kregel is a three-time indoor national qualifier and two-time outdoor national qualifier. In addition, Kregel earned allAmerican honors three times at outdoor nationals and was part of all-American performances in two indoor events.
JOSH LITTRELL Head Football Coach Littrell joins the Warriors after spending four seasons as offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach at Doane University in Crete, Nebraska. During each of his four years at Doane, the Tigers finished in the top 25 of the NAIA poll, which included top 10 rankings during the past two seasons. Littrell compiled a 25-7 record as offensive coordinator at Doane, helping the Tigers boast a 9-2 record in each of the past two seasons while earning back-to-back runnerup finishes in the always-dominant Great Plains Athletic Conference and two straight NAIA playoff appearances. Last season, Littrell coached an offense that ranked 15th in the NAIA with 225.2 rushing yards per game, 15th in scoring with 35.7 points a game and 17th in total rushing offense (2,477 yards). During Littrell's first season with the Tigers, they turned in a 5-5 record. Doane improved its record to 7-3 during the 2014 season, concluding the year with a 49-48 upset win over top-ranked Morningside College. The Tigers continued their upward trend with Littrell commanding the offense, rolling to two consecutive seasons that ended with 9-2 records. While coaching at Doane, Littrell heavily and successfully recruited student-athletes from Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, Oklahoma and Texas. FALL 2017 // WALDORF MAGAZINE
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CAMPUS NEWS
Student Profile CHRISTOPHER PAYNE—A TESTAMENT TO PERSEVERANCE If there is one word to describe Christopher Payne ’17 and his pursuit of a college degree, it’s “perseverance.”
while Chris started at Waldorf’s sister school, Columbia Southern University, before transferring to Waldorf.
After almost 16 years of taking classes at several different colleges, Chris graduated from Waldorf University with his Bachelor of Arts in emergency management in May. Chris, along with his wife Jennifer and daughter-in-law, Robin, came to Forest City to participate in Commencement.
“Waldorf University has allowed me to complete my education on my own time and at my own pace,” Chris said.
“After working on my degree for 16 plus years, walking across the stage and being handed my degree was my dream,” Chris said. After high school, Chris joined the Army and served active duty from 1996–2000, and active reserves from 2001–2003. Upon being discharged, he worked a full-time and a part-time job and helped his wife raise their three children: Dustin, Julia and Seth. Among all of those commitments, there was little time for school. So over the years, Chris would only be able to schedule classes as life would allow. In 2015, Chris and his wife decided to go back to school full time as online students. Jennifer started studying at Liberty University, 16
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Chris is now working toward his master’s in organizational leadership with Waldorf while Jennifer has transferred to Waldorf to pursue her degree in emergency management. The two plan to be back in Forest City for graduation in May 2019. Until then, Chris has advice for students thinking about taking classes online. “For me, it was the fear of the unknown. ‘Would I be able to succeed?’ ‘Would I have the time to do what was needed?’ ‘Would I feel like I was behind the [curve] compared to other students?’” he said. “I found that all of my fears were unjustified. The hardest thing to do is to make the decision to do it. Take one class and get a feel for it. You will not be disappointed. You can do this. Once you make that decision, you will not regret it.” Chris is the assistant chief and regional EMS program manager for the Navy Region Mid-Atlantic Fire and Emergency Services in Norfolk, Virginia. waldorf.edu
CAMPUS NEWS
CAMPUS MINISTRY MISSION TRIP CHANGES LIVES OF STUDENTS AND RESIDENTS by STEVE SMITH, ASSISTANT PROFESSOR/CHAIR OF RELIGION AND PHILOSOPHY
“I held a young, pregnant woman in my arms, and through her sobs, she told me that my presence and story changed her life, the life that she planned to take later that day,” said Peyton Russell ’18 psychology major from Bedford, Iowa. “With tears in my eyes, I was so thankful that God let me be here for this young woman. The only thing I could think of is how grateful and blessed I was to be there for her. Little did she know that her story changed my life! I was able to let go and let God, remembering my own worth.” It’s moments like these that make Campus Ministry so meaningful at Waldorf University. Peyton was one of 18 students and six faculty and staff members that experienced a mission trip of a lifetime this past March at the Providence Rescue Mission in Providence, Rhode Island. The Providence Rescue Mission is a privately funded 501(c)(3) non-profit, nondenominational ministry that partners with individuals, churches and businesses to reach the homeless and needy of Rhode Island’s urban centers with the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Funded entirely through private donations, the mission provides physical, emotional, educational and rehabilitative services at no expense to its residents. waldorf.edu
Our trip began by learning about the work of the mission and, specifically, about the drug rehab program for the residents there. Throughout the week, we helped with food distribution, sorting food, painting and spent time with the residents. One of the leaders in our group also noticed how bad the ceiling tiles were in the chapel and made a personal donation to replace them all. We all made a connection with the people at the mission. Whether it was by chatting with them, praying with them or even playing board games, the mission administration said that our visit completely changed the atmosphere! During our stay, we also ventured out of the mission to visit other areas in the community. One day, we visited a small congregation called “The Feast,” an independent church whose worship centers around the Lord’s Supper. The congregation emphasized fellowship and service-work in the community. In another nearby community, we met Pastor Andrew, whose church meets on the top floor of the Providence Vision building. Pastor Andrew talked with us about the state of the
Campus Ministry events occur on the Waldorf campus every Sunday–Thursday. All students, alumni, parents and community members are invited to join us.
MONDAY // 8PM LIKE FIRE IN GATSBY’S TUESDAY // 7:30PM SMALL FIRES IN GATSBY’S WEDNESDAY // 10AM CHAPEL IN THE RECITAL HALL Every 1st, 3rd and 5th Wednesday
WEDNESDAY // 10:30AM CHAPEL IN THE BALLROOM Every 2nd and 4th Wednesday
WEDNESDAY // 8PM THE BRIDGE IN THE LIBRARY Time/location subject to change
THURSDAY // 8:30PM ROSARY IN THE RECITAL HALL THURSDAY // 9 PM CATHOLIC MASS IN THE RECITAL HALL SUNDAY WORSHIP
There are several Sunday worship options available. For more information, please visit the Campus Ministry page on the Waldorf website.
MINISTRY continued on page 23
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FROM FOOTBALL PLAYER & CHEERLEADER TO PRESIDENT & FIRST LADY Waldorf Alums Lead New Generation Through Service and Learning When Dr. Dan Hanson ’75 and Elaine Docken Hanson ’75 met at Waldorf College, they had no idea how much impact that higher education would have on their lives. While students at Waldorf, Dan was a member of the Warrior football team and Elaine was a cheerleader. Today, they are still supporting each other as president and first lady of Peru State College (PSC) in Peru, Nebraska. As students, one of their favorite memories from Waldorf is about their roommates. (The late) Joel Laaveg ’75 was Dan’s roommate for two years and Gina Sundry Laaveg ’75 was Elaine’s roommate for two years. “Soon after they started dating, we went on our first ‘double’ date with them,” Elaine said. “Joel and Gina were married in May 1975 and we were married May 1976. We like to say we ‘switched roommates.’ We have been lifetime friends ever since.” 18
Waldorf is all about building friendships, gaining experiences and being servicefocused. Both Dan and Elaine are grateful to Waldorf for the strong, faith-based foundation it instilled in their lives and the many lifelong friendships that have enriched their lives. For Dan, he is quick to credit Waldorf with forming who he is today. “As a student and later as a staff, faculty member and administrator, I always admired the wonderful mission-focused and student-centered faculty and staff at Waldorf,” Dan said. “Many of these people were instrumental in shaping my life as a person and as a professional. This missionfocused and student-centered approach to education is at the core of everything I do at Peru State College.” Dan spent more than 30 years at Waldorf in a variety of roles. He began his career as an admissions counselor and was later promoted to assistant director of admissions. His career path changed directions when he joined the
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Waldorf faculty as an associate professor of social science. He went on to serve as the chair of the management information systems department and director of academic computing. His last position with Waldorf was vice president of academic affairs and dean of the college. “My 32 years at Waldorf College gave me a breadth of experience that serves as a strong foundation for my work at Peru State College,” Dan said. “I had tremendous opportunities to grow and take on new challenges serving in the admissions office, as a faculty member, as director of academic computing and as a vice president for academic affairs. A transformational experience was having the opportunity to travel the LECNA six-week trip to Eastern Europe with other Lutheran College faculty members. Waldorf College also supported me through a sabbatical allowing me to pursue and complete a doctorate at Iowa State University.” Dan added, “Service was ingrained in everything we did
at Waldorf College. Assuming a presidency is an act of service, serving the needs of the organization and its students. At Peru State, we have a strong emphasis on outreach and giving back to communities in southeast Nebraska. Much of that emphasis comes from a career focused on service at Waldorf College, now Waldorf University.” In reflecting on her days at Waldorf, one word comes to Elaine’s mind: grateful. “I’m grateful for the Christian values and love of learning instilled in me by Waldorf,” Elaine said. “I’m grateful for the role models and friendships that enriched my life and for the opportunity to experience and build community through service. I could have never imagined where my life’s journey would take me after my graduation from Waldorf College in May 1975,” Elaine said. “Reflecting on my days as a student, employee and alumna—I am grateful.” Throughout her career, Elaine has drawn on her education HANSON continued on page 19
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ALUMNI NEWS
WALDORF ALUMNA NAMED 2017 IOWA TEACHER OF THE YEAR
Shelly Wentzel Vroegh ’94 Awarded With Statewide Teaching Honor
A native of Emmetsburg, Iowa, Shelly Wentzel Vroegh is a fifth-grade teacher and instructional coach in the Norwalk Community School District—and she’s a proud Waldorf alum. In high school, Shelly was a four-sport athlete and wanted to continue playing basketball or softball in college. She received a scholarship for basketball and one for softball at two different out-of- state colleges. Choosing between the two sports she loved, Shelly decided to pursue softball and head out-ofstate for school. Then she received a visit from Waldorf athletic director Denny Jerome. Denny told her she didn’t have to make a choice—she could play both at Waldorf. “It didn't take me long to realize that Denny really cared about me not only as an athlete but also as a person,” Shelly said. “So, I changed my mind and decided to head to Waldorf. It was a decision I never regretted.” “Waldorf was the perfect transition for this small-town girl and from the minute I stepped on campus, I knew I made the right decision,” Shelly added. “The close-knit community of friends and caring professors and staff were just what I needed as I started college. To top it all off, I didn't have to choose between the two sports I loved and it gave me the opportunity to meet some of my best friends and teammates.” Shelly has many great memories of her days at Waldorf, but her favorite memory is meeting her now husband Troy Vroegh ’94 on her very first day.
HANSON continued from page 18
and experiences from Waldorf College. Elaine established a volunteer program at Forest City Good Samaritan Society, led the Values Clarification Task Force at Hospice of North Iowa, chaired The Iowa Commission on Volunteer Service under two governors and built the Waldorf-sponsored RSVP National Service program to the top 2 percent in the nation. Each of these feats prepared her for a new adventure in life, including her current position as first lady at Peru State. waldorf.edu
“We were in the same orientation group and I remember taking part in a variety of ‘get-toknow-you’ activities in those first few days of college,” Shelly said. “We were good friends our freshman year at Waldorf, but when we returned for our sophomore year we started spending more time together and eventually began dating. The rest is history as we celebrated 20 years of marriage this past January.” Other memories Shelly has of Waldorf include spending time with her basketball and softball teammates, being an RA and hanging out on the third floor of Ormseth. “Waldorf holds a very special place in my heart and I cherish the friendships I made during my time there,” Shelly said. After Waldorf, Shelly attended the University of Northern Iowa and received her bachelor’s degree in elementary education with a minor in special education. In her new role as ambassador for education, Shelly networks with Teachers of the Year from other states and serves as a liaison between the Department of Education and school districts across Iowa. She also works with teacher preparation programs at various colleges and universities in Iowa and will serve as Iowa’s ambassador for education from June 2017 to May 2018. She and Troy live in Norwalk with their two children, Mitch and Connor. In addition to teaching and spending time with her family, Shelly is active in the Norwalk community and the Special Olympics. Congratulations, Shelly! You are a true Warrior!
As first lady, Elaine’s focus on service continues by volunteering on non-profit boards and engaging students in service in area communities. She also hosts many students, alumni, community members, as well as faculty and staff in their home.
“When we met as freshmen at Waldorf College, we could never have imagined that we would have the privilege of serving an institution as president and first lady,” Dan said. “We are extremely grateful to Waldorf College.”
“As I talk with alumni and hear their stories of their love of PSC, I can understand their sentiment because I am reminded of love and loyalty of Waldorf College alumni,” Elaine said.
Dan and Elaine have two daughters, Heather and Abby. Heather is married to Waldorf alum Armando Alaniz ’01. They have one child, Andre-Pierre Daniel. Abby is married to Shane Mathis, and they have a daughter, Clara Marie. FALL 2017 // WALDORF MAGAZINE
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The following annual donors are recognized in six distinct club levels for their gifts made during the last fiscal year, June 1, 2016– May 31, 2017.
REGENT’S CLUB $5,000+ Anonymous
Cynthia Poole Jan & Roger Rosdail-Aagerter Carlton Shaw Carmen Shaw Nancy Sime Michael & Molly Stensland Theodore & Sherryl Strand
Anonymous
Trinity Lutheran Church; Mason City, Iowa
Travis & Madaly Finstad
David & Susan Weber
John Gertenrich Estate
Janet & Peter Hermanson
WARRIOR’S CLUB $500+
Harry & Cecilia Horner
Robert & Natalie Alsop
Lawrence & Jane Johannesen
Quentin & Janice Anderson
Walter & Virginia Moore
David & Arlene Arndt
Hans and Grace Olson Estate
Linda & Michael Aubey
Dorothy Stock Estate
Fay & David Bohn
Nella Halvorson Estate John K. & Luise V. Hanson Foundation
PRESIDENT’S CLUB $2,500+ Raymond & Joan Beebe
Marian & Phillip Brown Caroll & Janell Carson Central Freeborn Lutheran Church; Albert Lea, Minn. Gary & Diane Clark Mark & Debra Classen
Duane & Cheryl Coppeler
Karen Erickson
Emalie Edmisten Eileen Gunderson Estate
Fjeldberg Lutheran Church; Huxley, Iowa
Delores Larson
Arnold Fedriksen
Lester & Darlene Swenson
Michael & Melanie Frisk
Thrivent Financial for Lutherans
Betty Gollnik
DEAN’S CLUB $1,000+
WITH OUR DEEPEST SINCERITY, WE THANK YOU
Esther Rasmussen
CENTURY CLUB $100+ Donald & Faye Aamodt Robert & Elizabeth Abkes Norma Adams
Michelle & Mark English James & Tina Erb James & Janice Erickson Richard & Mavis Erickson Elaine Feroe Financial Decision Group
The Waldorf Lutheran College Foundation is grateful for the gifts received during the past year. We had another successful year, and it’s with the help of donors like you that we were able to reach our financial goals. The Honor Roll of Donors is comprised of anyone who gave an annual gift of $100 or more through May 31, 2017.
American Office Systems Minnesota
Diane & John Avers
Matthew & Shawnda Geiselhart
The Waldorf Foundation affirms the mission of Waldorf University and is committed to providing financial resources to enrich learning and spiritual opportunities for current and future generations of Waldorf University students. Your partnership and generosity of resources are key factors in helping educate students on the importance of their faith and service to others.
Timothy & Sharon Bahr
Betty Gertner
Amy & Andrew Balcam
Luther & Kay Gesme
Bank of America Foundation
Ruth & Clarence Ginder
Debra & Brian Banwart
Irving & Suzanne Globstad
Helen & Gerald Barth
Paulette Griffith
Alan & Kathleen Beach
Kent & Cynthia Smoldt-Hall
Leroy Beenken
Robert & Joyce Hamsund
Margaret Beenken
Thomas & Robyn Hansen
Steven & Nancy Benson
Daniel & Elaine Hanson
LaDonna Bergeson
Rhys Hanson
Janet & Douglas Berhow
Ronald & Kristen Happel
Bethany Lutheran Church; Kensett, Iowa
Orlando & Herdis Hash
Bethany Lutheran Church; Thompson, Iowa
James & Rozamond Hemberger
THANK YOU!
Dean & Marlys Andersen Dean & Daphne Anderson Marvin & Elaine Anderson Tamara Anderson Anonymous Gerald & Jane Askeland Koreen & Karen Askeland
Bigler Financial Services, Inc. Margaret & Darwin Blume
Grace Lutheran Church; Hanlontown, Iowa
Edith Boettcher
First Lutheran Church Women; Clarion, Iowa Rick & Sherry Fisher Juanita & Timothy Foslien Tim Franz David & Darlene Fretham John & Stephanie Fretham Loretta Garcia
Marcia & Dennis Haugen
Leanna Hendrickson Merle Hendrikson Kathryn & Patrick Herre
Paul & Cathy Groebner
Betty & Jeff Bollard
Mary Herrlinger
Dr. William Hamm
H. Lowell Bolstad
Dennis & Linda Hill
Lyle & Jean Borgschatz
Robert & Muriel Hoeg
Jacqueline Bowman
Richard & Ramona Holm
Neil & Leah Boyd
Grace Holmen
Allen & Joy Boyken Donald & Cathy Braathun
Homes Ev Lutheran Church Home Circle; Clarion, Iowa
Larry & Rebecca Hill
James & Barbara Braun
Keith & Jacalyn Holtan
Lori & Chad Wambolt
Kenneth & Marjean Hoeg
Esther Holte
Western Iowa Synod ELCA
Erik Humlie
Bricelyn Lutheran Church; Bricelyn, Minnesota
Holly & Jason Wise
Richard Johnson
Gene & Evie Brodland
H. Robert & Dorothy Homann
Carol Johnson
Xcel Energy Foundation
Eugene & Carleen Koltvet
Duane & Alice Bromeland
Jeffrey & Kathleen Howell
Jerry Brooks Marjorie Bruland
Julie & Kirk Jefson
Paul & Margit Churness
David & Sue Kingland
BUILDER’S CLUB $250+
Steven Ingebritson
Solveig & George Carlson
The Rev. Thomas & Julie Jolivette
Robert & Grace Kuphal
Velida Bruns
Barbara Johnson
Richard & DeAnn Corcoran
Sam Koehnk Memorial
Gerald & Judith Anderson
Dale Martinson
Francis Burnham
DeWayne & Donna Johnson
David & Sandra Damm
Dori & James Kostka
Anonymous
Chuck & Sara Murry
Mark & Sara Campbell
Karel Johnson
Arlin & Cathie Danielson
David & Dianne Lenning
Anonmous
LeAnn Nash
Cynthia Carter
Michael & Polly Johnston
Deborah & Jeffrey Gruber Davis
Michael & Gwen Luepke
Dennis & Lois Appelhons
Mark & Joy Newcom
Kenneth Chadwick
Alice Jones
The Rev. Raymond Mehl
Timothy & Sharon Bahr
Douglas & Paula Juhl
Monsanto Fund
Ruth Bartels
Barbara Osthus & Michael Drager
J. Gordon Christianson Robert & Caryl Churchill
Marie Kellenberger
Paul & Lori Ness
Jerald Barth
George & Mary Jane Patchin
Karilyn & Tom Claude
Audrey & Rollo Kiihn
Constance & Harvey Nyhus
Eric Bartleson
Stanley & Darleen Petersen
Lyndi Collins
Martha May & Robert Kim
Capt. Phillip & Karen Oppedahl
Mary Beulke
Irving Petersen
Rebecca Crone
Marcia & Erik Kjesbu
Jeffrey & Tanya Pierce
Stevin Dahl
Caleb Knutson
Cynthia Ryder
Emil Damm
Gina Laaveg
Aaron & Jamie Seifert
Howard & Uralee Dorman
Ruth & David Lake
Southern Minnesota Grain Inspection, Inc.
Edgar Dorow
Mary Lande
Nancy & Charles Sweetman
Martha Dorow
Dennis Langehaug
Dulas Excavating, Inc.
Ryan & Leslie Langsev
Marcia & David Duncan
Jeanette Larson
Evelyn & Charles Eckroth
Cynthia & Myron Lee II
Elain Edge
Rita Lemme
Perry & Janet Eimers
Alice Lewison
Daniel & Connie Eisch
Rachel Liebenow
Dorothy Wonsmos
Elk Creek Lutheran Church Women; Kensett, Iowa
Loonan Insurance Agency, Inc.
Kar Woo
Dean & Donna Emmans
Linda & E.C. Loyer
Opal Yahnke
Todd & Lori Enfield
Charles & Mary Lura
Owen Solomonson
James & Norlene Emerson Aagaard
Vivien Hansen
June Alsop
Walter & Berneil Hanson
Clark & Betty Anderson
Justin & Kimberly Haugen
Mark & Kristen Anderson
Janet & Selmer Hernes
Trinity Lutheran Church Women; Mason City, Iowa
Ella & Paul Beard
Kenneth & Linda Holmen
Waldorf University
Thomas & Olga Bergland Dustin & Laila Buck J. Mark & Gita Budd Leonid Budyonny Alan Burnham
Marilyn Day Leone Dunkelberg Roger & Nancy Espe Jodene Evans First Lutheran Church; Milford, Iowa
Wayne & Lois Hansen
Immanuel Lutheran Church; Story City, Iowa InFaith Community Foundation
Jennifer & William Spencer Dean & Mary Ann Stegen Mimi & Pete Thompson
Jean & Jon Brennan
John Gertenrich
Our Savior’s Lutheran Church; Osage, Iowa
Helen Ingvoldstad
Marilyn & Phil Peters
Karen & Wayne Johns
John Peterson
Robert Johnson
Pfizer Foundation
William & Mary Johnson
Scott & Shawn Pierce
Lynn & Rosalie Juhl
Shirley Ploegstra
Randy & Renee Juhl
David & Cathy Potter
Phillip & Jane Lee
Rain and Hail Ace American
Oscar & Lorene Lenning
Philip & Joann Ramsey
The Rev. Paul & Delores Mork
Mildred Rosdail
Charles & Sharon Olson
Beverly Schabacker
Steven & Nancy Olson
Marvin Simonsen
Gilmore-Stensrud Post No. 552
Kathy Pitcher
Carrie & Kelly Snieder
Donald & Karen Gimberline
Andrew & Keila Buffington Joanne Catlett Brian & Emily Chisholm Janet Dahl Marcia & David Duncan Elim Lutheran Church; Randall, Iowa Marion & Richard Erickson Thomas & Jennifer Faber Joan & Charles Gangestad Mark & Rita Gilbertson
Glinski, Klein, Anderson & Haka, SC Paul & Linda Hagen Craig & Louise Halverson Robert Hauge Erwin & Iva Hill
Leota Lenning Craig & LuAnn Lewer
Henry & Marlene Syverson Thomas & Katherine Urevig Dean Walters Wells Fargo Foundation Dr. Thomas & Dr. Laura Wicks Sheila & Robert Willms
Marilyn Holtey
Linda & Willard Maas James & Sharon Magelssen Mankato Ford, Inc. Loren Marlette John & Marcia McKean Richard & Diane McKean Donald & Kristen Meyer Nickolas & Blanche Meyer Charles & Lesley Miller Kevin & Julie Monson Justin Morrison Ronald Myrom Jonathan & Jennifer Nelson Noel & Donna Newgord Jerry Nikolaisen James & Linda Norem Carol Noren Merlin & Mariette Norris Alice Olson Arlie & Joan Olson Bradley & Graciela Olson Nicholas & Tiffany Olson Violet Opdahl Phillip & Karen Oppedahl Richard & Annette Oppedahl Our Savior’s Lutheran Church; Leland, Iowa Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church; Humboldt, Iowa Ernest & Karen Park Corlyn & Janice Paulsen Henry & Pamela Pedersen Jean & John Pemberton James & Diane Perry Kenneth & Lucille Peterson Robert Phelps Jodie & Marc Pick Neil & Candace Pierce Dwight & Karen Pierson Linda & Keith Piller Bennett & Julie Quamme Donald & Mary Lee Ranheim Glennyce & Paul Reimers Shirley Reindal Beverly Richter Andy Riesselman Patrick Rogers Miriam & Martin Rogness William & Ashley Roiger Frederick Roufs Michael Rstom Rowena Rustvold-Ihle & Nilus Ihle Patricia & Lawrence Ryan Rick & Stephanie Sahr Marlene & Gene Satre Avis & Robert Savre Dr. Joseph & Ferne Schechter Christopher Schutte Robert & Sally Severson Capt. Donald & Lisa Shunkwiler Charles & Susie Skogerboe Matthew & Lori Smalling Waldo Smeby David & Margaret Smith Mary Jo Smith Samuel Smith Steven Smith Sonia Solomonson
St. John Lutheran Church; Pomeroy, Iowa St. Olaf Ev Lutheran Church Women; Bode, Iowa Arlan Stavnheim David Steinhauer W. Bradley & Carolyn Stensland Kendall & Mary Stucky Phyllis Sucher Sandra Sydnes Texas Instruments Foundation Geraldine Thompsen Amy & Seth Thorson David & Shirley Titman Lois Torvik Joanne Toutges Phuoc & Nga Truong Solvay & Loren Twedt Rhonda Ulring Unknown Donor Kermit & Susan Urbain Hildegarde Vallevand Janice & H. Allen Vik Darlene & Dean Vincent Dale Wacholz Robert & Shirley Waggoner Waldorf University President’s Council Linda & James Walkinshaw Marlin & Beverly Weidler Jennifer Weismann Amy Wemark Catherine Wensinger Neal & Joan Wensinger Wayne & Joan White Sharon Worthington Brian & Nicole Yost Kristae Zandbergen The following gifts were donated in memory of those listed in bold by the donors listed below from June 1, 2016–May 31, 2017:
IN MEMORY OF: James Adams Owen Solomonson Robert Alsop, Jr. Ronald & Kristen Happel David Anderson Mark & Kristen Anderson Larry V. Anderson Ruth Lee Spencer Anonson Elaine Ingebritson Lorraine Bakke Robert & Natalie Alsop Michael & Nancy Farndale Helen Budd J. Mark & Gita Budd Francis “Buzz” Burnham Anonymous Janet & Douglas Berhow Alan Burnham Robert & Suzanne Lehman Steven & Nancy Olson
Richard Coxson Larry & Rebecca Hill
Bob Lugar Merle Hendrikson
Bob Crane Merle Hendrikson
Richard McNally Merle Hendrikson
David Dahl Ronald & Kristen Happel
Arden Midtgaard Anonymous
C. Marvin Erickson Karen Erickson
Russell Moretz Merle Hendrikson
Vaughn Escher Merle Hendrikson
Betty Muckle Solveig & Rev. George Carlson
Vernis Gesme Luther & Kay Gesme
Glennes Nelson Larry & Rebecca Hill
Loyal Golv Mark & Rita Gilbertson
Eva Mae Niewoehner Timothy & Sharon Bahr Amy & Seth Thorson
Zach Gueller Waldorf University President’s Council Elaine Hallstrom Robert & Natalie Alsop Ronald & Kristen Happel Roger & Ruth Hermanson Larry & Rebecca Hill Mark & Joy Newcom Michael Harms Robert & Natalie Alsop Anonymous Michael & Nancy Farndale Larry & Rebecca Hill Mark & Joy Newcom Steven & Nancy Olson Jean & Harold Yahnke
Lucille Olson Mary Beulke Richard Parrish Beverly Page
David Rasmussen Rhys Hanson Lola Roppe Merle Hendrikson Ernie Sansgaard Ronald Klipping
Randy Hill Michael & Nancy Farndale Jean & Harold Yahnke
Wayne Seydell Corrine & Jack Thomas
Elaine Ingebritson Roger & Ruth Hermanson Owen Solomonson Ilene Jennings Mary Jane Calgaard Paul Johanson Owen Solomonson Floyd Johnson Merle Hendrikson Rodney Johnson Carol Johnson Beverly Skadburg Ruth Johnson Bruce Erickson Roger & Susan Hadley Rhys Hanson Janet & Selmer Hernes Kenneth & Lucille Peterson Marvin Klipping Ronald Klipping Owen Solomonson Jack Lawler Merle Hendrikson Larry Lenning David & Dianne Lenning Leota Lenning
Kitra Burnham Robert & Suzanne Lehman
Paul Lewison DeWayne & Donna Johnson Alice Lewison
Warren Chapman Mary Jane Calgaard
Marion Lilland Lexvold Robert & Shirley Waggoner
If you have already provided a future gift for the foundation and have not informed the foundation of your planned gift, please email olsonn@waldorf.edu. We would like to personally thank you and include you in the Heritage Club listing.
Adrian Ploegstra Mark & Rita Gilbertson
Phyllis Schat Owen Solomonson
Joyce Imler Owen Solomonson
Waldorf invites you to join the Heritage Club, a group of donors who have established planned giving to Waldorf through gift annuities, insurance policies, wills, trusts or other vehicles. The Waldorf Endowment Society recognizes those who have established an endowed scholarship and/or contributed significant gifts to Waldorf.
Lorraine Paskewitz Mary Jane Calgaard
Ardis Helvick Anonymous
Roy Hjelmaas Michael & Nancy Farndale
GIVE BACK THROUGH THE HERITAGE CLUB
Everett Shaw Arlin & Cathie Danielson Ronald Sime Larry & Rebecca Hill Rita Smith Merle Hendrikson Sharon Stavnheim Owen Solomonson Audrey Stephenson Beverly Page Sherman Styron Robert & Natalie Alsop Clara Sunde Arlin & Cathie Danielson Marjorie Trelstad Elaine Ingebritson Robert Vaage Mark & Rita Gilbertson Mike Van Auken Robert & Elizabeth Abkes Anonymous Michael & Nancy Farndale Mark & Rita Gilbertson William Hamm Ronald & Kristen Happel Dr. Oscar & Lorene Lenning John & Karen Monson Rev. Paul & Delores Mork Mark & Joy Newcom Constance & Harvey Nyhus Sandra & Thomas Rankin Mildred Rosdail Sylvia Van Werden C.A. & Karen Gustafson Randall Winter Larry & Rebecca Hill
HOW TO DONATE We invite you to consider a gift to the foundation this fiscal year. To make a gift by credit card, please call 641.585.8140 or give online at waldorffoundation.org. To make a gift by mail, please make checks payable to Waldorf Lutheran College Foundation, and mail to: 106 South 6th St., Forest City, IA 50436 As a reminder, we fund three priorities: student scholarships, campus ministry and alumni relations. When making a gift to the foundation, please designate on your check or online form if you would like to apply it to a certain priority. To update contact information, provide newsworthy updates or if you are interested in funding a scholarship, please contact Nancy Olson at 641.585.8147 or email olsonn@waldorf.edu. Note: The Waldorf Lutheran College Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. All gifts to the foundation are tax-deductible.
ALUMNI NEWS CLASS UPDATES: 1940s Barbara “BJ” (Heggen) Barker ’47 is living in Grand Junction, Colorado.
CLASS UPDATES: 1950s Les Aasheim ’57 and his wife Sharon are retired and living in Clive, Iowa.
CLASS UPDATES: 1960s Michael Kohnen ’62 is retired and living in Sand Creek, Wisconsin. Jerry Anderson ’63 and his wife Barbara belong to MAPS, an Assembly of God ministry where they travel in their RV and volunteer at churches, camps, colleges and children’s homes affiliated with the church. They live full time in their RV and traveled to Europe last October to visit ancestry sites. Joan (Harrisville) Anderson ’64, a retired RN, and her husband John will be married 49 years this October. John, a pastor, will be joining Joan in retirement at that time. They have five children and 30 grandchildren.
CLASS UPDATE Dam Unified School District in Beaver Dam, Wisconsin. She and her husband John reside in Beaver Dam. Judy (Phalen) Delperdang ’78 resides in Mason City with her husband David where she works as a journalist for the Globe Gazette. She is also a member of the Waldorf Alumni Board. Rick ’78 and Lori (Unbehaun) Burras ’79 of Decorah were recognized as “Iowa’s Tree Farmers of the Year” for 2016. Rick and Lori have planted oaks, walnuts and other hardwoods on 40 acres behind their home. They also own property near Highlandville on which they've planted trees.
CLASS UPDATES: 1980s Lonnie Fluck ’86 works for Projects Consulting Group where he is a senior resource director. He and his wife Katey reside in Becker, Minnesota. Debbie (Nelsen) Ripperger ’87 is a senior customer service rep for Mediacom and lives in Des Moines with her husband Robert.
Karen (Anderson) Johnson ’64 lives in Woodbury, Minnesota, with her husband Bill, a pastor.
Janet Kuboushek ’89 is a buyer specialist for electronics and video games at Bluestem Brands. She resides in Prior Lake, Minnesota.
Ardis (Rusten) Johnson ’68 is retired from teaching and lives in Ramsey, Minnesota, with her husband Jeff who is in real estate.
CLASS UPDATES: 1990s
Carolyn (Hegge) Borseth ’69 retired in January 2017 and resides in University Place, Washington.
CLASS UPDATES: 1970s Duane Asbe ’70 is a planned giving officer at the Iowa Specialty Hospital in Clarion. Clayton Naylor ’71 is an educational consultant at Rock Island Regional Office of Education. He and his wife Jackie live in Moline, Illinois. Jan (Shurson) Anderson ’72 retired in February 2017 from Titonka Savings Bank. Gaile (Lasch) Schriber ’74 and her husband Jonathan live in Sidney, Ohio, and enjoy spending time with their four grandchildren. Eloise “Eller” (Hanson) Shipman ’75 retired after 38 years of teaching (37 of them in Corwith) when the Corwith-Wesley-LuVerne Schools closed their doors in June 2015. Eloise moved into a house in Corwith in December 2015 and keeps busy with church and community activities. Shari (Christensen) Deal ’76 is an RN at St. John’s Lutheran Community in Albert Lea, Minnesota, where she resides with her husband, Virl ’74. Jeneen (Banker) Carnes ’77 is retired from teaching in the Beaver
Dan Freeburg ’91 is a graphic designer and lives in Lacey, Washington, with his wife Kerry. DeAnn Derscheid-Hanna ’91 lives in Forest City with her husband Doug. DeAnn works in financial aid at Waldorf and her husband is a welder. Margo Kulseth ’91 is a librarian at the Waseca Minnesota Public Library. Shelly (Wentzel) Vroegh ’94 lives in Norwalk with her husband Troy Vroegh, ’94 who is a program manager at Voya. They have two sons, Mitch, a junior at the University of Northern Iowa and Connor, a sophomore at Norwalk High School. Shelly has been a fifth grade teacher/instructional coach in the Norwalk Community School District for 20 years. In October 2016 she was named the 2017 Iowa Teacher of the Year. Shelly will travel throughout Iowa and across the nation as an ambassador for education during the 2017-18 school year. Nicky (Jacobson) Lampe ’95 is a seventh grade math teacher with the Newton Community School District. She resides in Newton with her husband Ben who is a Trooper with the Iowa State Patrol. The Lampes have three children, Nate, Macy and Josh. Joy Mattick ’95 is a nurse and resides in Willmar, Minnesota. Rochelle (O’Brien) Markov ’99 married Jason Markov June 25, 2016. They reside in Minnesota.
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WALDORF MAGAZINE // FALL 2017
CLASS UPDATES: 2000s Rev. Tony Ede ’02 graduated in May 2017 from Upper Iowa University with a Master of Business Administration degree with a concentration in organizational leadership and development. Tony’s research includes the best practices of leadership communications in parish ministry along with crisis communication in ministry life. His studies are an extension of his degree in communications from Waldorf and his theological degree from Lutheran Seminary. He and his wife LeAnn (Reaman) Ede ’02 reside in Manchester with their three children. Maegan (Zimmerman) McHugh ’02 has lived in Eau Claire, Wisconsin, for 10 years and has been with Mayo Clinic Health Systems for the past nine. She currently works in program support with Mayo’s Outpatient Behavioral Health department. Maegan and her husband David were married in 2014 and recently purchased their first home together. Chris Vorrie ’03 and his wife, Kelsey, welcomed daughter Elin Ranae on Nov. 2, 2016. Elin joins big sister, Peyton. Carrie (Clausen) Zhorne ’03 is an office manager at Allers Architects in Fort Dodge. Chad and Lori (Kenyon) Eekhoff ’08 welcomed daughter, Autumn Rae, on Jan. 19, 2017. She joins big sister, Hope. Tyler Johnston ’09 is a funeral director and resides in Adel with his wife Jessica who is a psychologist. Estefana (Gonsalez) Miller ’09 married Keith Miller April 29, 2017. They have a son, Walker Miller. Stephanie is a paraprofessional at Albert Lea High School.
CLASS UPDATES: 2010s Adam Herrick ’11, a biology major at Waldorf and May 2017 graduate of the Kansas City University of Medicine and Biosciences, was matched in Feb. 2017 with his no. 1 pick for residency in Joplin, Missouri, for Emergency Medicine. Cody ‘12 and Samantha (Cabalka) Barnes ’11 live in Independence, Missouri, where Cody is an athletic trainer for the Buchanan County Health Center and Samantha works in human resources for Northern Contours, Inc. Matthew Hall ’13 is a soldier in the U.S. Army and resides in Burlington, North Carolina. Quinn ’13 and Morgan (Aupperle) Hesterlee ’13 were married July 7, 2014 and live in Spring Creek, Nevada. Quinn works for the Nevada Department of Wildlife as a Nevada State Game Warden. Morgan is an exercise specialist.
Dwayne Perkins ’14 is a procurement specialist with Southeast Georgia Health System. He and his wife Krystle, who is in the Navy, reside in Brunswick, Georgia. Marisa Donnelly ’15, a triple major in creative writing, English and education, is a full-time staff writer and producer/editor for the online journal “Thought Catalog.” She has published three e-books in association with “Thought Catalog” since her graduation: “Big Heart Problems,” “Fiercely Independent (Most Days),” and “To My Fellow Women.” Marisa is now at work on a poetry collection that will be released in March of 2018. Amanda Crinks ’16 graduated in May 2016 with her Master of Arts in organizational leadership. She is a business analyst with NetImpact Strategies and lives in Maryland. James Glenn ’16 is an aviation operations manager for the Army and lives in Richmond Hill, Georgia, with his wife Michelle. Jason Mays ’16 graduated in November 2016 with his Master of Arts in organizational leadership and concentration in public administration. He currently serves as Fire Chief for the city of Amarillo, Texas, where he resides with his wife Sara. Franklin Pangelinan ’16 graduated with his Master of Arts in organizational leadership and a concentration in human resource development. Franklin is serving our country as a commissioned officer in the U.S. Army. Shawna (Jackson) Sheffler ’16 is an account manager for Greater Raleigh Refrigeration, Inc., and resides in Youngsville, North Carolina, with her husband Ryan. Mikayla Fisher ’17 initiated a mealpackaging event in Des Moines with The Outreach Program with the help of the Iowa Wild hockey team and more than 150 volunteers. Together they packaged more than 24,000 meals that will be distributed in the Des Moines area to those who are food insecure. Amer Garatli ’17 from Portland, Oregon, is a fire instructor/training advisor for Saudi Aramco. Caleb Gilbertson ’17, from Hayfield, Minnesota, was accepted into the Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences in Worcester, Massachusetts. Michael Morgan ’17, from Charlotte, Tennessee, has been accepted to Salus University’s Pennsylvania College of Optometry in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Gulnara Novbatova ’17 has been accepted into the biomedical sciences (biochemistry) Ph.D. program at the University of Iowa. Gulnara is an international student from Turkmenistan.
Class updates are compiled from information submitted by Waldorf alumni or via news releases sent to the alumni office. To submit class updates or address changes, please email alumni@waldorf.edu or mail them to the Waldorf University Alumni Office, 106 South 6th St., Forest City, Iowa 50436.
waldorf.edu
IN MEMORIAM
For a more detailed list of In Memoriam, please visit waldorf.edu/memoriam.
IN MEMORIAM: 1930s
ALUMNI NEWS
LOYAL GOLV ’48 of Edina, Minnesota, died
CORINNE (STENE) HURD ’59 of St. Augusta,
LEO RENDAHL ’36 of Blooming Prairie, Minnesota, died May 16, 2017.
Feb. 28, 2017.
Minnesota, died Sept. 11, 2016.
CLARENCE BURKHOW ’38 of Riceville, Iowa,
2017.
died Jan. 17, 2017.
died Sept. 10, 2016.
RUTH (STOLL) PETERSON ’48 died Jan. 5,
MARION (DOCKSTADER) BLANK ’39 of
2017 in Arizona.
IN MEMORIAM: 1960s
Garner, Iowa, died Jan. 10, 2017.
CARMEN (HAVNEN) SUNDE ’48 of Decorah,
IN MEMORIAM: 1940s
Iowa, died Jan. 10, 2017.
FRANCIS H. “BUZZ” BURNHAM ’41 of Forest City died Feb. 10, 2017.
VIOLET (EILERTSON) IVERSON ’41 of Kiester, Minnesota, died Aug. 26, 2014.
DONALD MARTINSON ’48 died Feb. 20,
BARBARA (WILSON) BURNSIDE ’49 died Jan.
KAREN (MATSON) CLABAUGH ’63 of Oskaloosa, Iowa, died Oct. 21, 2016.
April 20, 2017.
JAY KALLENBACH ’63 died Aug. 24, 2012 in
IVANELLE TWAITEN ’49 died May 30, 2016 in
Fairfield Bay, Arkansas.
WARREN CHAPMAN ’43 of Granite Falls, Minnesota, died Dec. 26, 2016.
IN MEMORIAM: 1950s
IRENE (MIDTHUN) NELSON ’43 died Feb. 21,
in Urbandale, Iowa.
Iowa, died Jan. 7, 2017.
RUTH (BERGAN) DISRUD ’44 died May 27, 2017 in Waverly, Iowa.
MARILYN (BOLSTAD) LARSON ’44 of Mason City, Iowa, died Feb. 21, 2017.
MARJORIE (HARTBECK) JURGEMEYER ’47 died April 21, 2017 in Mason City, Iowa.
DONNA JEAN (CODY) PRINGLE ’47 died
BETTY (WICKS) MUCKLE ’61 died Feb.11, 2017.
GRETCHEN (THOMPSON) HEGG ’49 died
Phoenix, Arizona.
NORMA (ABBAS) TAPPER ’43 of Leland,
RUTH L. PETERSON ’60 of Coon Rapids, Minnesota, died May 9, 2014.
16, 2012 in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.
WILBUR KROSCH ’41 of Blue Earth, Minnesota, died Dec. 30, 2012.
2017.
DARWIN LOOFT ’59 of Rochester, Minnesota,
JOHN GERTENRICH JR. ’53 died Oct. 8, 2016 RHODA (HOLLAND) JUTTING ’53 died April 15, 2017 in Bloomington, Minnesota.
DOMINY (KINGLAND) TWITO ’54 of Lake Mills, Iowa, died April 20, 2017.
MARLENE (BJELLAND) DAWSON ’55 of La Crescent, Minnesota, died April 9, 2015.
CYNTHIA (HAUGE) WOLFRAM ’55 of Ventura, Iowa, died Feb. 27, 2017.
JERRY BERGESON ’56 of Radcliffe, Iowa, died
HENRY PRESTEGAARD JR. ’66 of Steward, Illinois, died Oct. 26, 2016.
HARLEY STIPP III ’66 of LaGrange, Illinois, died April 15, 2017.
IN MEMORIAM: 1970s
RICHARD KUNS ’72 of Clear Lake, Iowa, died
March 14, 2017.
JANE IVERSON ’73 of Eagan, Minnesota, died Oct. 12, 2016.
LES WUBBEN ’76 of Buffalo Center, Iowa, died April 5, 2017.
JOHN RADCLIFF ’77 died Dec. 22, 2016.
IN MEMORIAM: 1980s
Feb. 14, 2017, in Colton, California.
Feb. 19, 2017.
DOROTHY (FIELD) SUNDET ’47 of Waverly,
DAVID DAHL ’56 died Feb. 26, 2017 in
Jan. 24, 2017.
Iowa, passed away.
Wisconsin.
BETSY ROSE (OLSON) VAAGEN ’47 of Forest
LARRY SCHULER ’56 of Mason City, Iowa, died
IN MEMORIAM: FORMER FACULTY/STAFF
City died March 7, 2017.
Dec. 30, 2016.
GLORIA (FEVOLD) ANDERSON ’48 of Eagle
LARRY V. ANDERSON ’58 of Huxley, Iowa,
RANDY HILL ’84 of Georgetown, Texas, died
Grove, Iowa, died Nov. 8, 2016.
died April 17, 2017.
CARROLL “VINCE” CAUDLE, former director of planned gifts, died Jan. 23, 2017 in Rapid City, South Dakota.
CHARLENE (GROVE) DEVRIES ’48 died March
PHILLIP DAWSON ’58 of La Crescent, Minnesota, died Jan. 26, 2015.
ROBERT SHERMAN, former history professor, died Jan. 31, 2017 in Albert Lea, Minnesota.
church in the area and the work they are doing to build it. Churches across denominational lines are working together in Providence to establish a real presence.
short and go back to the mission early. Instead of sightseeing, they wanted to go play games and talk with the residents again, a true testament to their compassion and dedication to the mission.
most impactful. It provided a good balance of hard work, connecting with people and learning about the areas we served.
Toward the end of our stay, we visited and volunteered at the Woods-Mullen Shelter. Woods-Mullen is a women’s shelter that serves female adults ages 18 and older. The shelter has 200 beds and is open 365 days a year, 24 hours a day. We were able to help clean and organize the shelter so it can continue its important mission.
All week, the staff at the mission was impressed by how well and how fast we worked. In the evenings, we reflected on our hard work and events of the day. We prayed for the city, the mission and its residents. These times together as a group, reflecting on our work and mission, were truly memorable.
During a short trip to sightsee in Boston, our students asked if we could cut the day
This was one of the busiest mission trips we have had at Waldorf, but also one of the
16, 2017.
MINISTRY continued from page 17
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Campus Ministry has always been, and will continue to be, at the forefront at Waldorf’s mission. This trip solidified in my mind the faithful students we have at Waldorf. Thank you to all the donors who give generously to make these trips and experiences available to students. We all came back a little different and we hope and pray the work we did has a lasting impact on the lives we touched. FALL 2017 // WALDORF MAGAZINE
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