Waldorf Magazine: Spring 2019

HOMECOMING REC AP ,

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ALUMNI PROFILE: KEVIN MONSON ,

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G RIN SP 20 19

DOLL TRADITION

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PASSION

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COM MUNITY

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SUCCESS

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D-Day

CAMPUS NEWS CAMPUS NEWS 3

From The President's Desk

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Waldorf at a Glance

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Christmas with Waldorf

Recap 8

Homecoming Recap

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Boman Fine Arts Center

Photo Tour & Donors

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Athletics Recap

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Campus Ministry Notes

FOUNDATION NEWS 4

Foundation Notes

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From The Foundation Chair

ALUMNI NEWS

Former Waldorf Associate Professor of English, John Carlson along with his wife Kristi, who was an associate professor of art and Waldorf's art gallery director, and their children Timothy and Sarah, took a sabbatical leave to spend the 1991-92 school year in China teaching English to Chinese English teachers. Peter Wang was a student of Carlson's during this time and became a dear friend of the couple's, praising the impact they had on his life.

"For these years, whenever I have met any American in China, I would always be proud to tell I have my American teachers who live in Iowa...The university I have known best, of course, is Waldorf University, because 26 years ago, it was my teachers, Mr. and Mrs. Carlson who introduced themselves, their university, their staffs, their courses, their students, and so on," Wang explained of his former professors. "From then on, I set the unforgettable name of Waldorf in my heart."

The Carlson's described Wang as "remarkably social and friendly," and they spent quite a bit of time with him as their relationship evolved, even visiting him at his home in a village nearby the city they were living in.

In August 2018, Peter came to finally visit the beloved Waldorf that John and Kristi had told him so much about. During his visit with the Carlsons, he received a tour of campus and met several members of the Waldorf family. He also brought a beautiful print as a gift to the university (pictured above). The calligraphy is pronounced: "tian dao chou gin" and is an old Chinese idiom that means "God helps those who help themselves," or "The more you work hard, the more you gain."

Thank you, Peter, for such a wonderful gift! We are grateful for your friendship to Waldorf.

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Alumni Profile:

D-Day Doll Event

STAY IN TOUCH

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Why Waldorf?

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/waldorf-magazine.

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Alumni Profile: Monson

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Alumni Profile: Dolce

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Distinguished Alumni Recap

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 other 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 116, ISSUE 2

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Class News

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In Memoriam

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WALDORF MAGAZINE // SPRING 2019

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SPRING 2019

WEB waldorf.edu waldorffoundation.org waldorf.edu/waldorf-magazine

ADMISSIONS OFFICE admissions@waldorf.edu 641.585.8112 800.292.1903

MANAGING EDITOR Hannah Earll

DESIGNER Tara Kingland

EDITORS Janet Berhow Nancy Olson Audrey Sparks

CONTRIBUTORS Hannah Earll Antoine Cummins Mike Stetson

waldorf.edu

CAMPUS NEWS

FROM THE PRESIDENT'S DESK

Greetings Warriors!

I hope this magazine finds you well in these first few months of the New Year.

The start of another year always brings about times of reflection as well as looking forward, and this year is no different. We tend to mark important anniversaries in increments of five or ten years.

It was ten years ago in January, on a particularly blustery day, that a memorable group of visitors from Orange Beach, Ala., came to Waldorf's campus for the first time.

Over the next several months, it took many pieces to fit together what would eventually be the next chapter for Waldorf. But by the grace of God and the incredible generosity of the Mayes family, Waldorf continues to see incredible success throughout our campuses.

This past year in particular has brought myriad accolades for the school of Vikings bold. Our fall sports programs had phenomenal seasons (pg. 12), total enrollment surpassed 4,000 students last semester, we are in a state of some of the strongest financial stability that Waldorf has ever experienced and even though Mother Nature has not necessarily been our friend, our talented students have been able to showcase their incredible skills in our amazing new Boman Fine Arts Center (pg. 10).

From testimonies of alumni to the remarkable transformations that occur from the time these young men and women step in the door to when they walk across the stage at graduation, we recognize that our residential campus has long been known to change the lives of those who attend. But as more and more alumni from our online campus reach out with their stories of success and accomplished dreams, we're affirmed that the scope of the life-changing "Waldorf Experience" has truly reached the corners of the nation.

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In this magazine, you'll read about alumnus Jason Dolce ’17 from Connecticut whose life trajectory has been drastically changed because of his Waldorf education. You'll also learn about the path of the distinguished, award-winning architect Kevin Monson ’71 who planted his roots in Iowa and credits Waldorf with jump-starting his ultra-successful career.

Ten years ago, we had no idea what would become of our great Waldorf, and it is so wonderful to see this incredible institution continuing to make strides and touch lives all around the world. As we reflect on where we have come from, celebrating the huge victories that have been accomplished in recent years, we are not complacent. Waldorf has been privileged to continue to transform lives and help achieve dreams. Our focus will remain on students and alumni, like those you will read about in this magazine, in order to make certain that their "Waldorf Experience" continues to be meaningful and impactful for many decades to come.

Here's to the next ten years!

Sincerely,

Dr. Robert A. Alsop Waldorf University President

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FOUNDATION NOTES

EVEN IF THE FIG TREE DOES NOT BLOOM AND THE VINES HAVE NO GRAPES; EVEN IF THE OLIVE TREE FAILS TO PRODUCE AND THE FIELDS YIELD NO FOOD; EVEN IF THE SHEEP PEN IS EMPTY AND THE STALLS HAVE NO CAT TLE–EVEN THEN, I WILL BE HAPPY WITH THE LORD. I WILL FIND TRUE JOY IN GOD, WHO SAVES ME. THE LORD ALMIGHTY IS MY STRENGTH. HE MAKES MY FEET LIKE THOSE OF A DEER. HE MAKES ME WALK ON THE MOUNTAINS. ~HAB. 3:17-19 Maybe it’s just me, but this time of year is when it finally starts to seem like there’s a light at the end of the tunnel we call a Midwest winter. While the air might still be crisp, every so often a bird or two can be heard chirping again. While the amount of daylight might still seem short, the sun seems to hang on just a few moments longer at the end of its setting. While it’s still far too chilly to leave the house without a jacket, I don’t find myself having to sprint from the car to my office to protect my face from instantaneous-frostbite (which I’m sure is a real thing!). Smiles feel more frequent around town, moods feel lighter and the hope of warmer weather is upon us again.

However, when you are smack dab in the middle of the icy roads and cold, gloomy days, it can be hard to remember this feeling, and some years–like when we receive over a foot of snow in the middle of April–it can feel like spring will never show its face again.

But no matter if it arrives in March or if it doesn’t show up until May, the temperatures will rise, the plants will bloom and we can hold on to the truth that spring will come once more.

It doesn’t take a lot to learn that sometimes life can be like this as well. In this magazine, you’ll read about alumnus Jason Dolce ’17

(pg. 22), who had to hit his own rock bottom before turning his life around completely. You’ll also get a photo tour of the new Boman Fine Arts Center (pg. 10), an immaculate building that took years of planning, fundraising and construction, but is now a true pillar of the Forest City community. I’m sure there were times in both of these situations when it was hard to imagine that an end would ever come, but through perseverance and trust came genuine beauty in the final products.

Whether it’s a season of life or just the season of winter, I pray that you hold onto the truth that Christ is in this time and that spring, in whatever form that might look like for you, is coming again. As you wait and trust, I hope you can sit back and find some inspiration in these pages Sincerely,

Hannah Earll Director of Alumni Relations Waldorf Lutheran College Foundation

Janet Berhow

Nancy Olson, CFRE

Director of Alumni Relations

Database and Gift Processing Manager

Director of Institutional Relations

Waldorf University Waldorf Lutheran College Foundation

Waldorf University Waldorf Lutheran College Foundation

Waldorf University Waldorf Lutheran College Foundation

Hannah Earll

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.

Waldorf University, 106 South 6th Street, Forest City, IA 50436 // 641.585.2450 // 800.292.1903

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WALDORF MAGAZINE // SPRING 2019

waldorf.edu

The WALDORF YOU LOVE

The FLEXIBILITY YOU NEED.

TAKE THE NEXT STEP

in your career.

Take the next step in your career by earning your Master of Arts in organizational leadership online. Focus on general organizational leadership or choose one of Waldorf’s optional applied leadership concentrations including: // Criminal Justice Leadership // Emergency Management Leadership // Fire/Rescue Executive Leadership

// Human Resource Development // Public Administration // Sport Management // Teacher Leader

Have questions?

The Waldorf support staff is here to help you every step of the way. Contact us to learn more about our master’s degree programs and their concentrations, tuition costs, academic planning and more. waldorf.edu

waldorf.edu // 877.267.2157

FALL 2018 // WALDORF MAGAZINE

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WALDORF AT A GLANCE

GET CONNECTED WITH ALUMNI IN YOUR AREA! It might not always be easy to come back to campus during the year, but we don't want that to stop you from connecting with classmates and fellow Warriors.

Introducing: Waldorf Alumni Chapters.

Waldorf Alumni Chapters will provide a fun, welcoming and inclusive environment to help bring together alumni, parents and friends of Waldorf throughout various parts of the nation. Chapter groups will allow members to stay connected with campus, no matter where they are located. These groups can be formed based off of geographic/regional location or by special interest (choir, football, major/minor, etc.) and are an awesome way to engage, network and reminisce with fellow Warriors all year round!

If you want more information on chapters near you, or are interested in starting an alumni chapter in your geographic region and/or area of special interest, let us know! Email Alumni Director Hannah Earll at alumni@waldorf. edu for more information.

Here’s to a true Warrior nation!

Proud sponsor of the money management system course “Foundations in Personal Finance” developed by Dave Ramsey being taught in these area schools: // Albert Lea Junior High School // Forest City High School // Austin High School // Ft. Dodge High School // Alden High School To find out more about how Waldorf University is working to prepare the next generation through positive money management call 800.292.1903 or visit waldorf.edu.

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WALDORF MAGAZINE // SPRING 2019

106 S. 6th St. Forest City, IA waldorf.edu waldorf.edu // 800.292.1903

CHRISTMAS

WITH WALDORF 2018

While the arrival of colder weather can be hard, it also means that the holiday season will be here before we know it. One of our favorite parts of the end of the year is the annual Christmas with Waldorf concert, and this year’s event was especially momentous.

In the weeks leading up to the performance, the night was structured to be a Christmas dinner that was open to the public and would lead straight into the concert as it had done in year’s past.

What made this year exceptionally festive, however, was the anticipation of performing the annual concert in the Boman Fine Arts Center for the very first time.

As Midwest weather would have it, though, Mother Nature had also planned a winter storm for the same day, postponing the concert until the following afternoon, on Sunday, and forcing the music department to cancel the dinner entirely. Weather aside, though, the concert ended up a huge success.

President Alsop welcomed the crowded auditorium and Campus Ministry Coordinator Antoine Cummins opened the evening with a prayer. Joel Everist conducted the choir with Melissa Phillips as pianist, and Cory Schmitt conducted the Waldorf Wind Symphony.

The lineup for the afternoon included: the Waldorf Choir singing "Keep Your Lamps," "O Come, Emmanuel," "Carol of the Birds," "Rejoice, Rejoice, Believers"—arranged by Composer-in-Residence Nancy Farndale, "Amid the Cold of Winter’s Snow," "Sing We Noel," "African Noel," "Here’s A Pretty Little Baby," "Thixo Onothando," "Total Praise" and "Beautiful Savior"; Schola Cantorum performing "Lo, How A Rose E’er Blooming" and "A Carol For To Sing"; the Waldorf Wind Symphony playing "A Solitary Wish," "God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen," "Celtic Carol" and a collaboration of "O Come, All Ye Faithful" with the Waldorf Choir to end the fantastic afternoon of performances. waldorf.edu

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CAMPUS NEWS

HOMECOMING 2018 OVERVIEW

HOMECOMING RECAP

(women’s golf). The evening rounded out with a student-led bonfire in the parking lot of the Luise V. Hanson Fieldhouse where the Waldorf football coaches gave motivational speeches, dancing was encouraged and a great time was had by all.

W

hile it was a cold and wet afternoon, spirts were still high as Waldorf Homecoming 2018 helped to kick off the month of November. Festivities started on Thursday, Nov. 1, with the annual candidate review and coronation hosted by the communication department. The event took place in the Atrium, and several hundred students showed up to help crown the 2018 homecoming king and queen (BELOW):

Frankie Contreras and Patricia GermanMolina respectively. The rest of this year’s homecoming court included: Nikki Adolphson, Hannah Ashley, Kassidy Bunger, Kyle Swiderski, Zabdiel Flores, Cameron Newsome and Saheed Olaosebikan.

Following the crowning of the king and queen, the weekend could officially commence. The annual Athletic Hall of Fame banquet took place on Friday evening in the Salveson ballroom, where three honorees (BELOW) were inducted: Scott Pitcher ’93 (baseball), Jenny (Schweikert) Gilbertson ’86 (softball) and Valeria Cogollo Martinez ’09

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WALDORF MAGAZINE // SPRING 2019

Saturday morning got off to an early start as the homecoming 5K walk/run (ABOVE), hosted by the Waldorf track and cross country teams, was reintroduced into the schedule of events for the weekend. Over 40 runners showed up on that brisk morning to start off their day on the right foot.

Coffee and a light breakfast was provided post-race for participants and spectators alike. Unfortunately, the rainy weather began as the race was wrapping up and lasted the rest of the day. While this forced the cancellation of many of the carnival and tailgating activities, the Warrior spirit couldn’t be diminished. Many tailgaters still showed up to rally behind the football team (RIGHT), and in spite of the cold and wet conditions, the stands were full throughout the entire game. The Warriors made it all worth it by ending their football season that afternoon with a fantastic 41-22 victory against the Mayville State University Comets.

Saturday’s on-campus activities wrapped up with the Alumni Distinguished Service Dinner that evening, where Ardelle (Brosdahl) Osnes ’48 and Laura (Satre) Friesenborg ’95 were honored with one of Waldorf’s most prestigious awards. William Stokes ’08 was on the schedule to be recognized as this year’s Recent Alumni Award for Service recipient. However, due to unforeseen circumstances, he was unable to attend and will be honored for this same award at next year’s event.

Many alumni found themselves participating in the “9-Pin, No Tap” bowling tournament, a fundraiser for the Waldorf bowling team, at Forest City Super Bowl on Saturday night as well. The place was packed as many came out for a fun time to support the Waldorf students.

A homecoming worship service was held at Immanuel Lutheran Church on Sunday morning, and the alumni choir, directed by former Waldorf choir director Ben Allaway, was given an opportunity to perform as well. The entire weekend came to a perfect close with the annual homecoming music concert, where the Waldorf choir, the alumni choir, schola cantorum and the band all showcased their incredible talents.

Waldorf homecoming is always one of the best weekends of the entire year. Mark your calendars now for next year’s festivities: October 17-20, 2019!

Alumni class luncheons were held on campus that afternoon as well, which gave classmates an opportunity to reminisce on their Waldorf days with one another while enjoying a meal in the Atrium. The 50th class reunion, celebrated by the class of 1968, was extremely well attended with nearly 40 members returning to campus from all corners of the nation. If they didn’t want to brave the weather for the football game, alumni had the opportunity to peruse the annual art and craft fair or take a tour of the brand new Boman Fine Arts Center.

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CAMPUS NEWS

HOMECOMING RECAP

CLASS OF 1948

CLASS OF 1953

CLASS OF 1958

O. Ardelle (Brosdahl) Osnes

Esther (Alfseike) Rasmussen, Janet (Severaid) Hermanson, Evelyn Oftedahl, LuAnn (Mathews) Eide, Ron Eide

Elanie (Gjerde) Nauss, Greta (Herrlinger) Motzko, Connie (Nilssen) Nyhus, Shirley (Stark) Jorde, Dixie (Severson) Teig, William “Bill” Johnson, Mary (Carlson) Johnson, Darlene (Carlson) Carson, Marlys (Peterson) Clark, Corrine (Johnson) Bolz, Shirley (Sande) Ploegstra, Patricia (Olson) Hagen, Dave Teig, Travis Jorde, John Peterson, Les Carlson

CLASS OF 1959

CLASS OF 1963

CLASS OF 1968

Warren Overlie, B.J. (Osnes) Overlie

Bill Haglund, Marcia (Ott) Duncan, Judy (Wolf) Sbragia

Karen (Weltzin) Swenson, Miriam (Wold) Pedersen, Julienne Friday, Dorothy Lea, Anne (Bechtel) Bakke, Miriam (Weller) White, Sharon (Fleming) Bahr, Charles Juhl, Steve Olson, Bonita “Bonnie” (Isebrand) Kearns, Karen (Flugum) Johns, Rebecca “Becky” (Bogenschutz) Koch, Dorothy (Pedersen) Haaland, Audrey (Holtan) Olmstead, Joyce Giesking, David Hall, Randy Juhl, Warren Torkelson, Paul Johnson, Susan Pursch, Phil Swiggum, Fred Hicks, David Steinberg, William “Bill” Christ, Tim Bahr, Steve Bakke, Marvin Ehm, Richard Akland, Keith Pedersen, LeRoy Holt

CLASS OF 1972

CLASS OF 1973

CLASS OF 1978

Diane (Teigland) Clark, Janet (Ambroson) Haugen, Jan Rosdail-Aegerter, Cathy (Whiteis) Jacque,

Sheila (Monson) Davis, Kris (Boller) Vander Linden, Joy (Ruen) Moen, Mark Bockwoldt, Gary Clark, Joyce (Solberg) Landsom, Hope (Griffith) Kordahl,

Gail Steffensen, Laurel (Osnes) Rye, Dawn (Shattuck) Koenen, Dianna (Hill) Stallmann, Kristi (Mino) Meyers, Judy (Phalen) Delperdang, Martha “Marty” Dorow, Becky (Ulring) Black, Clayton Beiser, Joanne (Olson) Eittreim, Jeff Barth, Kevin Scharper, Judy (Ruhnke) Iwen, Janice (Meldrem) Uthe, Jim Rasmussen, Lori (Schneider) Bruns, Dennis Kalvig, Carole (Holtan) Kettwick, Darlene (Caltvedt) DoBell

CLASS OF 1988

CLASS OF 1993

CLASS OF 2000's

Tom “Doc” Wicks, Keith Eischen, Maureen Wescott, Kimber (Muessigmann) Kleven, Martha (Coloff) Long, Suzie (Doane) Anderson, Angie (Layman) Spake,

Wendie (Tomlinson) Fagen, Melanie (Jensen) Marreel

Rachel (Anderson) Harms, Valeria Cogollo, Jenna Miller, Molly Vander Linden, Emily (Harrah) Wiebke

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CAMPUS NEWS

The Boman Fine Arts Center is the result of a vision to elevate the importance of the fine arts within the Forest City community. The Forest City School District, the City of Forest City and Waldorf University collaborated to create the 21st century performing arts center.

Forest City natives Gerald and Mary Jo (Hanson) Boman have loved music all of their lives. As Forest City High School students, they participated in band, choir and theatre and went on to sing in the Waldorf University choir.

Mary Jo studied piano and organ at Waldorf and after graduation, she taught piano. She became the conductor of the F.C. Community Choir and for many years, conducted her church choir. Gerald sang in his churches choirs throughout his life. As a couple, they sang in the ensemble “Seven Free” and Mary Jo in the Jubilee Trio. Mary Jo’s efforts helped launch Forest City’s municipal concert series and made Waldorf an “All-Steinway” piano school. The Bomans’ love of music, especially singing, is central in their family, their faith and their community.

The Bomans’ home is centered on their piano as their children and grandchildren are all musicians, either professionally or for their own enjoyment. When Mary Jo counsels young people she says, “Study music. Music will be with you your whole life, bringing joy to yourself and to the lives of others.”

The center can host weddings, special occasions, theatrical performances, art displays, regional and national touring groups, speaker engagements and the Waldorf University Artist Series.

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CAMPUS NEWS We’d like to extend a very special thank you to all of the donors who made this masterpiece possible. Many families were able to have a space named after them as well. Those spaces are as follows: Waldorf students, impacting many lives in a very positive way. His wife, Inghild “Pøtt” Van Auken also touched many students’ lives, especially in her role as a Norwegian instructor. Their two children, Kari (Stern) and Paul, both attended Waldorf and the Forest City Schools and were blessed to be involved in their music programs.

at St. Paul Lutheran Church, singing in the Trinity Lutheran Church choir, and teaching piano lessons. A highlight of Betty’s music career was singing in the Una Vocis Choral Ensemble and serving on their board.

Ken & Joan Hansen Stage

Coloff Family Control Room

Professor Ken Hanson joined the Waldorf faculty in 1970, and during his 43-year tenure taught English, speech communications and theatre, which included producing and directing many plays. Joan Hansen taught journalism and English and was the assistant library director at Waldorf for 27 years. Ken, Joan and their three children, Susan (Geitzenauer), Kevin and Anne, have and continue to be active participants, supporters and patrons of the arts in Forest City, including numerous Waldorf, Forest City Schools and BrickStreet Theatre Productions.

Music filled the airwaves of North Iowa in 1978 when Tony and Sue Coloff brought KIOW Radio and their family to Forest City. Ever since, KIOW has entertained and informed with music, news, weather and sports—including live coverage of Waldorf University and Forest City High School athletics, fine arts and community events.

The four Coloff children, Jim, Martha, Anna and Jon, were involved in music and stage productions at Forest City, and three attended Waldorf. The Coloff Family is honored to keep the music alive with the sound control room.

Weber Johannesen Lobby Larry and Dave came to Waldorf as roommates and spent two meaningful and impactful years at Waldorf. Especially important to them was the foundation of Christian faith that the college embodied.

They graduated in 1962 and have remained lifelong friends. Their love for Waldorf University inspired them to join together in support of the Boman Fine Arts Center.

Sansgaard Family Art Gallery: The complex also features a main floor lobby and art gallery offering approximately 2,000 square feet. Music played an important role in the Reuben and Delores Sansgaard family, and Alan ’71, Brian ’77 and Becky ’79 were all members of the Waldorf Choir.

Jolivette Family Green Room The Jolivette family has a long association with Waldorf and the Forest City community. Their father Norbert served on and chaired the Waldorf Board of Regents, was Waldorf’s first Director of Church Relations and was visitation pastor at Immanuel Lutheran Church. Five of the Jolivette children and three spouses attended Waldorf and participated in the Waldorf Choir and/or the Waldorf Band, including Bruce who served as interim director of the Waldorf Band and Tom who served as both Vice President for Development and as President of Waldorf.

Betty Gollnik Piano Room Van Auken Orchestra Pit Z. Michael Van Auken spent 16 years as director of the Waldorf College Concert Band and the New World Singers. He was a much beloved teacher and mentor to countless

This room was constructed with funds provided by Mrs. Betty Gollnik. Betty is a 1949 graduate of Waldorf College and was a member of the Waldorf Choir. Her love for music led her to serving as the organist

Adrian Johnson Auditorium Adrian H. (AJ) Johnson came to Waldorf College in 1960, directing the Concert Band and Chapel Choir. In 1967, he became the Concert Choir Director, continuing the tradition of Easter tours, regional and national conferences and conventions. Four European tours were also included in the choir’s travels. AJ’s passion for music and The Word influenced every rehearsal and performance for singers and audiences alike.

BFAC continued next page

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CAMPUS NEWS BFAC continued

Mrs. AJ, Eleanor, was Choir Mom for all and also inspired students through the education classes she taught at Waldorf. Their two children, Donn (’72) and Andrea (’73) are Waldorf graduates. The Adrian Johnson Auditorium seats 630 people and hosts the Ken & Joan Hansen Stage and the Van Auken Orchestra Pit.

Leadership Mezzanine The mezzanine was constructed with funds provided by the following persons who have served in leadership positions at Waldorf. This upper level mezzanine is approximately 3250 square feet and has available seating for 200 people with an overall capacity of 325. It features large, glass windows with a dynamic view of the surrounding community. In gratitude and in recognition of their selfless commitment and service, we dedicate the Leadership Mezzanine in their honor: Dr. Robert Alsop, Steven Bakke, Raymond Beebe, Diane Clark, Chantell Cooley, Richard Cocoran, Dr. Ann Hill Duin, Roger Espe, Dr. William E. Hamm, Janet Hermanson, Dr. Kenneth Holmen, Cecilia Horner, Dr. Randy Juhl, Heather Lilienthal, Mimi Mayes, Robert Mayes, Casey Miller, David M. Pederson, Jan Rosdail-Aegerter, Waldo Smeby, Lester Swenson and Eugene G. Sukup.

3M Offices Winnebago Plaza We are extremely grateful to both 3M and Winnebago for funding the above named spaces. It’s incredible to see the community backing for the Boman Fine Arts Center, and these incredibly generous donations are prime examples of that support.

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ATHLETICS RECAP

DENNY JEROME NAMED NSAA ATHLETIC DIRECTOR OF THE YEAR

CAMPUS WALDORF NAIA NEWS SCHOLAR-ATHLETES Waldorf Athletes see 11 teams honored as NAIA Scholar Teams The Waldorf Athletic teams proved they’re filled with more than just talented athletes, but standout students, as well, as 11 programs were named NAIA Scholar Teams.

To be recognized by the NAIA as a Scholar Team, the program must have an average team GPA of 3.0 or greater for all the players on the roster, for the entire academic year.

During the 2017-18 academic year, Waldorf’s women's cross country team, women's indoor track & field team, women's outdoor track & field team, men's cross country team, softball team, baseball team, women's golf team, cheerleading team, men's soccer team, women's basketball team, and volleyball team all were named NAIA Scholar Teams.

19 Warrior fall student-athletes to earn NAIA Scholar-Athlete award With the fall seasons complete, the awards began to be handed out in early November with four Waldorf runners being named 2018 NAIA Scholar-Athletes.

From the Warrior men’s cross country team, Andrew Murley was honored, and from the Waldorf women’s cross country team, Marissa Kuik, Bailey Matthaidess and Marissa Widener all were honored with the NAIA’s top academic award for student-athletes.

A 1970 graduate of then-Waldorf College, Denny Jerome has spent a majority of his life serving his alma mater.

The most successful women’s basketball coach in school history with 786 career victories, Jerome also has held positions in admissions and student life, in addition to his current role as Waldorf’s Director of Athletics that he has presided in for more than 30 years.

In May at the NSAA Summit, Jerome’s dedication to his alma mater was honored in a very special way by the North Star Athletic Association as Jerome was named the NSAA Athletic Director of the Year.

During the 2017-18 academic year, Jerome oversaw a Warrior athletic program featuring six first-year head coaches who led

waldorf.edu Athletics Articles by MIKE STETSON

Waldorf athletic teams and student-athletes to immense success: The football program finished unbeaten (6-0) at home and with the first winning record in four-year history (8-3); the men’s soccer program won the A.I.I. Championship and qualified for the NAIA National Tournament for the first time; cross country and track & field won six NSAA titles and saw its first-ever NAIA All-American in Peyton Russell (javelin); the men’s basketball team finished three games out of first place and hosted an NSAA Playoff First-Round game; men’s wrestler Taylor Lehman advanced to the quarterfinals of the NAIA National Tournament; 24 Waldorf student-athletes were named NAIA Scholar-Athletes; 11 Waldorf teams were named NAIA Scholar Teams; and 119 Warrior student-athletes were named NSAA Scholar-Athletes.

To be named an NAIA Scholar-Athlete, a student-athlete must be at least a junior academically and be in at least their second season competing for their team.

They also must have a cumulative GPA of 3.5 or greater in all their collegiate work.

While four Warrior runners were honored in November, 15 other Waldorf student-athletes were set to receive the same honor as their sports NAIA National Championship tournaments conclude in December.

Set to earn NAIA Scholar-Athlete honors from the Warrior football team were Guilherme Aleixo, Kerry Curran, Connor Curran, Moises Jauregui, Marcel Lindner, Sven-Erik Tiedemann and Stanislaw Zawieja. Earning the honor from the Waldorf men’s soccer team will be Rodrigo Freitas, Athos Monteiro and Barema Samassekou. Earning NAIA Scholar-Athlete honors for the Waldorf women’s soccer team are Shinnell McCalla and Kaitlyn Rockwell. And set to be honored from the Warrior volleyball team are Savanna Cordle, Kyra Platzek and Elisabeth Tramm.

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CAMPUS NEWS

ATHLETICS RECAP

CROSS COUNTRY/TRACK & FIELD

Warriors Kuik becomes first cross country All-American After re-writing the Waldorf record books last season in both track and cross country as a sophomore, junior distance runner Marissa Kuik added to her historic Warrior career this fall, becoming Waldorf’s first NAIA All-American in cross country.

Kuik won her second straight North Star Athletic Association cross country championship in early November, then two weeks later raced at the NAIA National Cross Country Championships for the second straight year and finished 27th overall in a new school-record time for the five-kilometer distance of 18 minutes, 0.8 seconds. She finished in the top 30, earning the junior from Coon Rapids, Minn., NAIA All-American honors.

Also racing alongside Kuik at nationals for the first time was junior teammate Marissa Widener who finished 250th overall and broke 20 minutes with a career-best time of 19:52.8.

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On the men’s side, a youthful team of Warriors overcame injuries this season to finish sixth at the NSAA Championships.

Andrew Murley led the way, finishing 18th overall in 28:09.6 on the men’s 8K course, and Bryce Elm finished 20th in 28:26.2.

Kuik’s All-American effort was the second in the history of the Waldorf track & field and cross country program. She joins Peyton Russell, who earned NAIA All-American honors in late May in track & field, finishing 5th in the javelin at the NAIA Outdoor National Track & Field Championships with a school-record throw of 137 feet, nine inches.

Rallying from a 22-10 deficit in the final 12 minutes, the Warriors handed the Blue Hawks their first loss in NSAA play since Oct. 17, 2015. Joseph threw two late touchdown passes and the Warrior defense picked off two passes by Blue Hawks quarterback Hayden Gibson in the fourth quarter to pull off the comeback win that snapped an 18-game win streak for Dickinson State in league play.

Also honored as All-NSAA Honorable Mention selections were junior wide receiver Samuel Huntley, junior defensive end DeShaun Quinn, sophomore offensive lineman Zach Throne and freshman kicker Slater Gifford.

FOOTBALL

Waldorf football team ends Dickinson State’s 3-year unbeaten run in NSAA play Coming off a historic season on the gridiron one year before, the Warriors continued their stellar play in 2018 by adding the most memorable win in the program’s four-year history, along with earning top honors in the NSAA for quarterback Hilton Joseph and coach Josh Littrell.

After starting the season with three challenging non-conference games – which included a trip to play at NCAA Division I foe Stetson in Florida – the Warriors put together a stunning 3-0 run to open NSAA play that included an historic 23-22 win over then No. 16-ranked Dickinson State.

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Freshman running back Beau Evans joined Joseph on the All-NSAA First Team for offense, as did junior wide receiver Don Jones and junior offensive lineman Robert Mosley. Junior wide receiver Ryan Martinez was named to the All-NSAA Second Team on offense, while juniors Devin Quinn (DE), Cameron Newsome (CB), freshmen James Jackson Jr (CB) and MaCoy Yeakel (FS) were honored as All-NSAA Second Team defensive performers.

Waldorf finished the year 5-5 overall and tied for second in NSAA play with a 5-2 record, a performance that earned Coach Littrell honors as the NSAA Coach of the Year.

The Warriors also placed 13 players on the NSAA AllConference Team, led by NSAA Offensive Most Valuable Player, Joseph. Joseph finished the year re-writing the single-season record book for passing as he completed 170-of-291 passes for 2,392 yards and 27 touchdowns, all new Waldorf singleseason records.

MEN'S SOCCER

Warrior men’s soccer finishes strong season in A.I.I. semifinals The defending Association of Independent Institutions (A.I.I.) champion Warrior men’s soccer team turned in a strong season on the pitch, recording an upset of a Top 25-ranked team and advancing to the A.I.I. Tournament semifinals before their title defense ended.

Waldorf scored a 2-1 win at then No. 16-ranked Columbia in October, and went 8-9-1 overall on the year, qualifying No. 3 for the A.I.I. Tournament.

The Warriors advanced to the semifinals against tournament host Georgia Gwinnett before falling, 4-2.

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CAMPUS NEWS

ATHLETICS RECAP

fielding a full roster to play five games on the pitch before suspending play for the remainder of the season.

to the pitch next fall ready for a full year of action.

VOLLEYBALL

The shortened Warrior campaign didn’t go without highlights as Waldorf went 2-3 in games contested on the field, despite not fielding a full 11 players at any time during the year.

Senior defender Barema Samassekou was one of three Waldorf players to earn All-A.I.I. Second Team honors as he helped the Warriors post six shutouts on the year. Sophomore midfielders Anthonio Coletto and Goitom Kidane also were honored, as Coletto led the team with seven goals this season, and Kidane added three goals and one assist for Waldorf.

WOMEN'S SOCCER

Despite fighting lack of numbers, Waldorf women’s soccer enjoys memorable season Under the leadership of firstyear coach Lugo Arenas, the Waldorf women’s soccer team overcame the struggles of

Tramm’s record-setting performance was one of the highlights for the Warriors during a season that saw Waldorf score victories over NSAA rivals Valley City State, Mayville State and Dakota State, and compile a 6-21 overall record.

Waldorf volleyball’s Elisabeth Tramm sets new standard for setters

Senior goalkeeper Daritsa Herrera made nine saves in a 1-0 win over Bethany Lutheran, then the Warriors combined for their most prolific win since Sept. 29, 2013, rolling to a 9-0 victory over Nebraska Christian.

While the first season under Waldorf alumnus, Arenas, came to an abrupt end in mid-September, the Warriors will return

Returning strong from a knee injury that ended her sophomore season abruptly, Waldorf setter Elisabeth Tramm led a youthful Warrior team on the court to season that showed the program’s promise.

The junior from White Bear Lake, Minn., broke the career record for assists at Waldorf this fall, becoming the first Warrior to eclipse the 2,000-assist mark, and with a season still left to play she now has 2,205 assists in three years at Waldorf.

Adding to the Warriors success on the court were a pair of All-NSAA performers in junior outside hitter Kyra Platzek, and freshman outside hitter Sarah Williams. The duo combined for 665 of the team’s 1,097 total kills, and Platzek was named a First Team All-NSAA performer, and Williams was named to the All-NSAA Second Team.

ALUMNUS, JEFF BARTEL, GOES PRO The Waldorf hockey team is sending one of its alumni into the ranks of the professionals.

A three-year captain for the Warriors who graduated in May with a degree in Business and Sports Management, Jeff Bartel signed a professional contract with Hallefors IK in Sweden earlier this month.

"We are proud of Jeff for the hard work that he put in here in his time at Waldorf to give himself this opportunity," Warriors coach Brett Shelanski said. "His work ethic and love for the game will make him a success and a great addition to Hallefors."

Located in Hallefors, Sweden, the team plays in Sweden's Division 3 league, one of the premier professional leagues in the country, and last winter Hallefors IK was one win waldorf.edu Athletics Articles by MIKE STETSON

away from being promoted to Division 2.

The nation of Steinbach, Manitoba, the 5-foot-11 defenseman began his four-year career at Waldorf in the fall of 2014 and established himself as one of the premier back-line players in the American Collegiate Hockey Association, earning All-American his junior year (2016-17).

Bartel also earned numerous league and conference individual awards, and was named to All-Academic teams for three years.

On the ice for the Warriors, he played in 124 career games for the Warriors, scoring 29 career goals and assisting on 57 others, finishing his career with a plus-76 rating.

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ALUMNI NEWS

D-DAY DOLL Paying Tribute to the Past

T

im Tarris, graduate of the Waldorf class of 1970 and former Board of Regents member, is a faithful, devoted husband to his wife Vicky (Pedersen) Tarris ’70. However, she would be the first to tell you that lately, much of his time is spent with his girlfriend “Doll.”

Doll, more commonly known in the aviation world as D-Day Doll, is a veteran C-53 paratrooper aircraft of World War II and has become a huge part of Tim’s life.

The story goes that Vicky (AKA “this hot chick who was sitting right in front of me”) was in his-

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tory class when Tim, a football player under head coach David Bolstorff, first noticed her. After some encouragement from friends, the two became college sweethearts and got married the summer after graduating from then Waldorf College.

They eventually went on to earn both their bachelor’s and master’s degrees as well.

Upon graduation from college, Tim was commissioned in the United States Air Force as a 2nd Lieutenant. Later, he left active duty and moved to Tucson, Arizona. There, he joined the Arizona Air National Guard, the largest air guard unit in the

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country, as an instructor pilot.

During his military career, he flew the F-111, A-7, F-16 and KC135. In 2000, he was promoted to Colonel and was given the position as Director of Operations for the state of Arizona.

He retired in 2003 as a Colonel with 30 years of service. As an airline Captain, he flew B-747s and instructed at United Parcel Service (UPS) gaining worldwide aviation experience. The Waldorf alumnus retired from the airline in 2009 with years of flying still ahead of him.

As a history and political science major in college, Tim always had his nose in infor-

mation on World War II and historical monuments, and the Tarris couple loved to visit these historic sites. This passion, combined with his former careers in aviation, lead him and Vicky to two momentous upcoming commemorations that have been years in the making: the 75th anniversary of the D-Day invasion and the 70th anniversary of the Berlin Airlift, both set to take place in June 2019.

The organization “Daks over Normandy,” AKA “Daks”, originated from a group of British airplanes known as the Dakotas and are in charge of organizing and coordinating these

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ALUMNI NEWS events. While the Daks were also responsible for putting together the celebrations of the 50th and 70th anniversaries of the D-Day missions, they knew that the 75th commemoration would most likely be the final opportunity for those men who were teenagers and served on that fateful day in 1944 to join in the reenactment, so it had to be big.

Tim knew immediately upon hearing of this event that it was something he wanted to be a part of. However, being a spectator wasn’t going to cut it for the former fighter pilot.

After doing a bit of research and qualifying to fly the renowned D-Day Doll in the celebrations, Tim found himself taking on the role as project manager for Doll to Normandy 2019 and in charge of dozens of volunteers for the tribute-not one of them making a single dime off of the project, but only taking part in it for their love of the cause.

As June 6, 2019, the actual DDay anniversary, draws nearer, it appears that all of their planning has not been in vain.

Two hundred fifty aircrafts are anticipated to take part in the D-Day tribute and fly across the English Channel, reenacting the memorable occasion and making it the largest gathering of warbirds since World War II. But it won’t be a first class Delta ride to be a part of the action.

Tim, along with retired United Airlines Captain Steve Rose, have agreed to take Doll round trip across the Atlantic and back.

They plan to fly in four to five hour increment trips, taking off from Bangor, Maine and stopping in Goose Bay, Labrador, Greenland, Iceland, Scotland and finally Duxford, England arriving in late May. Their travels

will total out to over 13,000 miles round trip.

“Honestly, my Corvette is faster than the Doll,” Tim teased.

Because of Doll’s age, she has no pressurization or climate control. With no autopilot, they will be hand flying below 10,000 feet over the North Atlantic, clothed in survival suits to withstand the freezing temperatures and decked out in noise reduction gear. The plane has no icing protection, so any poor weather or thick clouds could provide issues for the duo.

“I told Vicky, ‘When I get to England, you’ll know who I am because I’ll be cold, hungry and deaf,’” Tim joked about the

flight. “Doll can be pretty noisy.”

But in spite of his jokes, the weight of Doll’s past is not at all lost on the Waldorf alumnus.

“The essence of Doll is that she carries all of the history. She flew three separate times on D-Day,” Tim said. “Every time I walk up through her to go fly, I think about the fact that the oldest kid in the back, sitting on one of those two metal benches, was 19. The two guys driving were 21 and 22. That’s quite a sobering feeling. Whenever I fly her, it's living history.

I’m taking her to where she had her finest hour.

The commemoration will be set up to drop reenactors from

1500 feet in the air utilizing the same historic drop zones that were used on D-Day. Participants will be dressed up in full World War II-era Allied uniforms and equipment including shovels, rifles, canteens, parachutes and reserve parachutes.

But getting that much history back to where it started requires plenty of preparation.

Not only has it taken years to coordinate, organize and fundraise for this level of commemoration, but it will take at least an hour just to get all of the planes assembled in the proper formation on the day of the event. Additionally, getting older airplanes ready to fly various distances requires regular ...

(LEFT) Vicky and Tim Tarris cutting the cake on their wedding day in 1970.

(ABOVE) Tim Tarris standing in front of D-Day Doll.

(RIGHT) Vicky and Tim with their oldest daughter in July 1977.

(BOTTOM RIGHT) Vicky and Tim at the USAF Commissioning as a 2nd Lt. in 1973.

(BELOW) Tim, a friend of the Tarrises, and Vicky in the back of D-Day Doll in April 2017.

D-DAY DOLL continued next page

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ALUMNI NEWS D-DAY DOLL continued

maintenance and upkeep, including Doll, who recently even got a paint job in light of her upcoming endeavors.

“You can’t take a 75-year-old woman out without makeup on,” Tim joked about getting Doll ready for action.

The trip won’t be just about flying airplanes for the Tarris’, though. Vicky’s uncle, Silas Pedersen, was 23-years-old in World War II when he was killed by the German army, and the couple plans to visit his memorial site in France to pay honors.

“A long time ago, people who aren’t here anymore lived and died for our freedom and our democracy,” Tim stated of their

desire to take part in commemorating these heroes. “People from different countries came together to rectify a situation.

The sacrifice that those people made, we can barely wrap our heads around.”

Because of the similar timeframes and locations, it was decided that just days after the D-Day reenactment, many of the planes will fly north to celebrate the 70th anniversary of the Berlin Airlift and the Berlin Candy Bombers one last time. Both events will be especially significant to the veterans who lived it. Honoring the sacrifices they made is essential as it is most likely their last time to participate.

Even if you aren’t flying planes or making your way over to Europe

for the commemorations, Tim and his team have created several places for people to follow along on their adventures as soon as they take off from California.

“You will be able to follow every day. It’ll be like, ‘Here we are in England. Here we are going over Buckingham Palace…

Here comes Meghan Markle.’”

Tim teased. “Day by day, you can follow the Doll. It will be very personal. It’s footage right from one of the pilots in the front seat.”

Not only will these events be momentous occasions to see, but Tim has hopes that those spectating, both in person and online, and perceiving from afar, will understand the significance of these anniversaries and will remember the implications of

what these brave heroes’ actions meant for the rest of the world.

“We’re looking at the past, so we can make a future. Not for ourselves necessarily, but for others,” Tim spoke of their passion for this project. “I see the good out there, and I’m going to contribute to it somehow. It’s quite a journey. It’ll be one of the largest things I’ve done in my life, period.”

If you would like to contribute to either of these projects, please go to inlandempirecaf.com cafddaywing.org or contact Col. Tim Tarris at timtarris111@gmail.com or 520.275.3726.

(ABOVE) Tim and Vicky Tarris in front of Doll. (RIGHT) Tim and Vicky photographed together in 1980.

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ALUMNI NEWS

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SPRING 2019 // WALDORF MAGAZINE

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ALUMNI NEWS

Faculty Profile

CARLOS RUIZ ’14—WHY WALDORF?

S

o there I was, sitting on my family’s computer going through my inbox when I received an email regarding a soccer scholarship opportunity in Iowa. At first, I thought, “There’s soccer in Iowa? Who knew?” I was doubtful, but as I did some research, I landed on the Waldorf College website and quickly realized it was legitimate. However, Iowa was not even close to being on my list of locations I wanted to further my education in. Mind you, the only time I had heard of really anything in Iowa was in the film, “Field of Dreams.”

I had visited many schools around the Denver, Colo. metro area that I was excited about, but there was something about all of them that just didn’t feel right. I felt like another body walking through those campuses with dollar signs attached to me, but when I took a road trip to Forest City in the middle of April with my mother and stepped onto Waldorf’s campus, there was something significantly different than anything I had experienced before.

I realized that 1. Forest City is very small 2.

The closest thing they have to a skyscraper is the water tower and silo by the train tracks 3. Everything closes earlier than in Colorado and 4. There are no mountains, and I had no idea which way was north. Talk about a culture shock!

However, besides the obvious physical and populous differences, there was something about Forest City and Waldorf that made me feel like this was the place I belonged.

Additionally, I visited Waldorf for a soccer 20

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open house and immediately felt as though I was a part of the team and that I was valued as a person rather than a number.

A few weeks later, I was sitting in a film literature class in high school attempting to focus, knowing very well that I had only days left to make a decision about my future. It was then that I realized I couldn’t stop thinking about Waldorf and the excitement I had for the opportunities on the field as well as the classroom. So, I pulled out my cell phone and typed up the most terrifying, yet rewarding email in my life to my parents, declaring that after school I was going to go home and sign my letter of intent to commit to Waldorf College. Considering I was the first generation born Mexican-American in my family to pursue higher education, it was exciting, yet terrifying.

As time went on, the excitement and fear of moving away grew, but it wasn’t until I was sitting on a bus in the middle of Athens, Greece that I finally felt truly confident in my decision to attend Waldorf.

I was on a Europe trip with my high school, and we got word that a family from Iowa would be joining us throughout our stay.

I didn’t think too much of it. There was a part of me that wanted to have a conversation to see if they knew about Waldorf, but I figured that since it was such a small place, they would have no idea what I was talking about. As I sat on the bus, I looked down the aisle and saw the family of four get on and sit in the first two rows. As one of the teenagers was about to sit down, I

saw something that I couldn’t believe. She had on a t-shirt that with the Waldorf logo on it! I simply couldn’t believe it. This moment served as a final sign for me. It was as if Waldorf was saying, “We’re waiting for you.” Immediately, all my anxieties and fears of moving away and the unknown had dissipated as I knew it had to be from God telling me that everything was under control.

When I left Waldorf after graduating, there was a sense of sadness and grief as I departed from a place that truly shaped me into who I am today. However, when I received a call from my former professors about the possibility of returning to Waldorf to serve the students as an educator, there was no doubt in my mind it was time to return home and get to work. It was a sign, just like many years earlier. And once again, any doubts immediately vanished when a community member walked into my office unannounced, gave me a hug, and said, “Welcome home.”

As I think about my story, I am reminded of the humble journey and signs that continued to show me that I was always meant to be here. It’s that journey that sent me to a place that not only gave me an education, a career, my best friends, and the opportunity to meet my beautiful wife, it’s the place that I call home and has been one of the best decisions of my life. In the words of the poet Robert Frost, “Two roads diverged in a wood, and I- I took the one less traveled by, and that has made all the difference.”

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ALUMNI NEWS of leftover tin and recently chopped logs, becoming an architect was always seemingly part of the plan for Monson. There was not just one moment that called him to the architecture profession, but a combination of many moments, teachers and factors that fostered his passion and eventual success.

As a young man, Monson began to be mesmerized by the magic of architecture.

Alumni Profile

KEVIN MONSON

W

hen it comes to architects, Forest City is no stranger to these skilled professionals. From Gjelten & Schellberg and Associates firm on main street and Waldorf’s Thorson Hall being named after Iowa pioneer architect Thorwald Thorson, Forest City has a long standing history in the architecture industry. As a native of rural Forest City, perhaps it was just in the water for Kevin Monson ‘71, but as the 25-year president of Neumann Monson Architects and having been recently honored as the 2018 American Institute of Architects (AIA) Iowa Medal of Honor Award recipient, his name has officially been added among the greats.

The AIA Iowa Medal of Honor was created to recognize an architect for outstanding leadership and distinguished service to the profession. Among the honorees of this fantastic recognition include designer of Iowa State University’s Stephens Auditorium, Ray Crites; former Dean of Iowa State University’s College of Design, Mark Engelbrecht; leading architect in the restoration of Terrace Hill, William Wagner and architect of Meredith Corporation and a “Building of the Decade” award recipient, Calvin Lewis. With industry experts of such prominence listed among past honorees, the humble Waldorf alumnus didn’t even have the esteemed award on his radar.

“Looking at the past winners, they were the pillars of the profession who you looked up to and admired and were fantastic for the profession,” Monson exuded. “It’s not something I ever dreamed I would be considered at the level for.”

However, as a child who spent his formative years on the farm making shelters out

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“Architecture is creating real things that really have to work and keep the wind from blowing your house away, and that magic between science and art intrigued me,” Monson stated of his early endeavors. It was this fascination that, as a senior in high school, drew him to manipulate his upcoming curriculum at thenWaldorf College for the following August to eventually match up with the architecture program at Iowa State University.

But it wasn’t just the courses at Waldorf that gave Monson a leg up in the start of his career. The notable architect praised the overall experience he had during his years on the Warrior campus. From the challenging classes and personalized attention—something Monson jokes to have needed much of in his differential equations course—, to the kindness of his professors and the affordability of his experience, Waldorf gave him, and all three of his sisters, the skills and tools to be prepared for the next steps in his professional career.

“It was a big jump from Waldorf to Iowa State size, but as far as the educational standpoint, it was fantastic. [Waldorf] prepared me well for the rigor at Iowa State, and it really helped me jumpstart my career in a very meaningful way.”

After graduating from Iowa State University’s architecture program, Monson spent six months working for a small firm in Cedar Falls before taking a job at an engineering/ architecture firm in Iowa City in January of 1974, officially making the Hawkeye city the Cyclone graduate’s permanent home.

As a young architect just starting out in his mid-twenties, Monson and his friend, Roy Neumann, were working together when they learned that the company they were employed with had plans to be sold to a bigger firm. The two aspiring entrepreneurs decided to take the risk and jumped head first into starting an architecture firm. In 1977, Neumann Monson Architects opened its doors, and the 41-year-old award-winning firm hasn’t slowed down since.

With a mission to “Drive positive change by empowering our people, our customers, and

our communities with thoughtful and relevant design solutions,” Neumann Monson’s motivation has always come from delighting clients. When they opened, Neumann Monson employed a modest four employees. Today, the growing firm has two offices, one in Iowa City and the other in Des Moines, with fifty professionals constantly working to go above and beyond their client’s vision. From single and multi-family homes and high-rise buildings, to the University of Iowa’s Kinnick Stadium and the south end zone in Iowa State University’s Jack Trice Stadium, all the way to working on things like a wave basin and one-of-a-kind driving simulator design, the Neumann Monson crew has their hands in a variety of projects.

“That’s really the most rewarding part of the job, is seeing the work that we can do to help clients do what they do better. It’s really a people business. It’s all about making sure we are surprising clients with our design skills, so they can excel with better environments to work, live, play…,” Monson stated. “Providing a one of a kind design that delights them in ways that they would have never imagined, that more than meets their needs; that’s the guiding force for us.”

And with a team in place that continues to receive some of Iowa’s most notable honors, including multiple design awards and the AIA Iowa Young Architect Award, it is obvious that even though Monson transitioned to chairman of the board in January 2018 and has a new successor in the president’s seat, Neumann Monson continues to be in fantastic hands.

“It’s important that we have established a legacy firm and we want to make sure it has the leadership in place to move it forward into the future,” Monson stated regarding what the next steps look like for Neumann Monson.

“We’re happy to have done that here.”

For 41+ years, Monson has put his heart and soul into creating spaces for others to live, work and play. And while he still continues to put his clients first every single day in his efforts at the firm, the future hopefully holds a few more travels with his wife and a few less headaches than the past 25 years as president of Neumann Monson have.

Regardless of where life takes him next, though, Monson’s heart for serving those around him is sure to follow. Waldorf is so privileged to have such an exceptional alumnus, and we are thrilled to help celebrate him on this prestigious award. Congratulations on a well-deserved honor, Kevin!

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ALUMNI NEWS

Alumni Profile

JASON DOLCE—NOTHING’S IMPOSSIBLE ANYMORE; I AM A WARRIOR

I

grew up in the small shoreline town of Stonington, Conn., and lived next to my grandparent’s house and our family’s lumberyard business.

Through my eyes, the first years of my life were perfect. I was surrounded by family and lived in a picturesque village by the sea.

Life began to change around the age of six, when I developed a terrible stomach pain that persisted for months. The pain became unbearable, until one night when my mother sat me down and asked what was wrong. After much hesitation, I developed the courage to tell her what my father had asked me to keep secret. For the first time, I broke the promise I made him and told my mother about the woman who kept appearing whenever my father would take my younger brother and me out on day trips.

To my six-year-old self’s surprise, the stomach pain immediately vanished. What I did not realize was I had just unknowingly confessed that my father was having a long-term affair with a woman 13 years his junior. I deeply blamed myself for my parents divorce.

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In the years that followed, a different set of emotions began to intensify. The every other Saturday visitation my father was allowed was apparently too much. Seared into my memory are images of my brother and me waiting at the front door for our father to drive down the street. More often than not, around the time he was expected to arrive, the phone would ring and I could hear the disappointed tone in my mother’s voice: “I’m sorry guys, dad’s not coming today.”

My father eventually married his younger mistress and started a new family. The constant lies and letdowns hurt, but nothing compared to what I felt when I found out my father had been telling others that my brother and I were not his children but were his nephews. Learning this led me in a downward spiral and into years of counseling for depression and anger issues. I also became petrified of going to school. In middle school, I recall pleading and crying with my mother to let me stay home.

On the days I went to school, the pressure sometimes became too much, and I would simply walk out.

The challenges of school did not subside upon entering high school, where my learning disabilities became much more obvious.

Later, I was diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and Oppositional Defiant Disorder. Although I was in the lowest level classes, I still had great difficultly comprehending what was being taught, a hard time paying attention and I failed the majority of my classes. In fact, two of my high school summers were spent in summer school making up the classes I failed. The frustration grew, and I was disciplined on a daily basis. Senior year, I had completely given up and was prepared to stay back. Thank God for my mother and grandmother, who devoted countless nights completing my assignments, which helped me achieve passing grades. In 2003, I graduated from high school with a 1.64 GPA and ranked 171 out of 180 students.

While my friends entered college, I entered the workforce. My first job was working the overnight shift as a painter at General Dynamics, where I painted crawl spaces aboard nuclear submarines. I quit in less than three

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ALUMNI NEWS months. As I continued to bounce between jobs, my friends were graduating from college and establishing themselves in bigger and better things.

In 2005, I did the unthinkable and signed up for a course at my local community college.

However, before being allowed to take the course I was hit with another setback. Due to my poor grades in high school, I had to take a series of tests to determine whether or not I was prepared to take a college course. To no one’s surprise, I failed every test and was required to pass a number of pre-requisite courses. I was ready to quit, but I stuck it out and learned what I should have learned in high school. After more than a year, I earned passing grades in all the pre-requisite courses, but once again became extremely upset when I found out not a single course counted toward a college degree.

The typical course load for a college student is usually between three to five classes per semester. After my prerequisites, I enrolled in one class. I was intimidated, overwhelmed, had zero confidence and was haunted by the memories of the challenges I experienced in grade school. I was also aggravated with the idea that at the rate I was going, it would take upwards of ten years to earn an associate degree. I started to dislike everything about college and often tried to convince myself that I didn’t need a college education. Around this time, I also gained

Jason Dolce running an ultra-trail marathon.

a considerable amount of weight. My high school weight of 160 pounds ballooned to 250 pounds. Looking in the mirror, it started to dawn on me that I was the biggest loser.

Uneducated and bouncing around menial jobs, I started to believe that this was life; this was my life.

In 2011, I married my long-term girlfriend, Bree. At face value, Bree and I were polar opposites. In high school, Bree was a straight-A student, member of the National Honor Society and was the captain of the softball and basketball team. She had worked at the same place for several years, had already earned a bachelor’s degree with honors and was researching graduate school options. At times, tensions were higher than usual because while she was succeeding, I was on a road to nowhere. I had no idea what I wanted to do with my life, had zero in my savings account and had only completed a few courses at my community college. Unbeknownst to me, three years later I would experience a series of events that would begin to change my life forever.

In August 2014, my first son was born, which was the proudest and happiest day of my life. In October 2014, my grandfather passed away, which was easily the hardest day of my life since he was my father figure. I recall saying a prayer in silence at his memorial service. I vowed to be the best father, the best husband and the best person I could be. The birth of my son and death of my grandfather had massive effects on my life, but what triggered the change was a statement my wife made one evening shortly thereafter when I was again trying to convince myself I did not need a college education.

That night, my wife said, “Next year is going to come no matter what, so you will either have it [a college degree] or not.” Her words, combined with the mixed emotions that were still built up inside of me, changed my life. In early 2015, I made the decision to sign up with an online college. For the first time in my life, I became a full-time college student, all while working full-time as a law enforcement officer and raising a young family. I was excited and determined. Unfortunately the online school I was attending started to live up to the poor reputation some online schools have when compared to “brick and mortar” schools. But I persisted and earned my associate degree the following year. My big break, however, came the following year when I discovered Waldolf University.

My first encounter with Waldorf University was when I called and spoke to a woman who would later become my academic advisor, Debbie. Debbie and I spent more than an hour talking about Waldorf, the process of transferring, how classes were set up and what to expect. She exceeded my expectations, and I couldn’t wait to transfer. In May 2016, I officially became a Waldorf Warrior.

My undergraduate experience with Waldorf was amazing. With the help of my advisor and my professors, for the first time in my life school became enjoyable--challenging nonetheless, but enjoyable. Each term I took a full course load, which meant three courses every eight weeks. I was not only determined, but I was driven to make up for the years I wasted. I was proud of my hard work and apparently my hard work did not go unnoticed, as many of my professors commented on the quality of my papers.

In January 2017, I graduated summa cum laude with a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice. To me, I achieved something I never thought was possible. I was a college graduate. Earning a college degree boosted my self-confidence and self-esteem. I felt accomplished and my positive experience at Waldorf led me to re-enroll in their graduate program later that summer. Never in my wildest dreams did I envision myself in the position I was in. The two-time summer school student who graduated at nearly the bottom of his high school class was a college graduate student pursuing a Master’s Degree! I cannot recall the number of times I said that out loud and smiled.

I continued to work hard and push myself academically, taking two courses every eight weeks. I earned straight A’s, received accolades from my professors and graduated in July 2018. Receiving my Master’s Degree made me feel like I was on top of the world.

The point of my article is to encourage others to strive for creating a mind-set where nothing is impossible. My upbringing certainly had its challenges, but doesn’t everyone’s? Perhaps you, or someone you know, can relate to the challenges and difficulties. The differentiating factor is what path you decide to take when you reach the crossroads. I chose, and it changed my life.

My crossroads were the birth of my son and the death of my grandfather. But what triggered the change, what pushed me towards the right path that changed my life, was the statement my wife made to me that one night several years ago, “Next year is ...

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ALUMNI NEWS

ALUMNI DISTINGUISHED SERVICE AWARDS Osnes & Friesnborg

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uring the 2018 homecoming celebrations, Waldorf hosted the annual Alumni Distinguished Service Award banquet on Saturday, November 3. The Alumni Distinguished Service Award is an annual honor that recognizes Waldorf alumni who have performed distinctive and meritorious service in areas such as public affairs, education, church, business and government and have demonstrated their Christian faith in service to community and church.

Waldorf President Bob Alsop presented the awards to this year’s recipients, O. Ardelle (Brosdahl) Osnes ’48 of Forest City and Laura (Satre) Friesenborg ’95 formerly of Buffalo Center.

Ardelle was honored for her exemplary contribution and lifelong dedication to church and a career in health care, in addition to relentlessly serving her community through outstanding volunteer efforts. The alumna grew up in Fertile and began at Waldorf College in the fall of 1946. While attending Waldorf, Ardelle met her future husband Rev. Russell E. Osnes ’49.

Following her graduation in 1948, Ardelle began at the Kahler School of Nursing in Rochester, Minn. It was as a student here that she was given the opportunity to intern at the University of Chicago and work with

many prominent doctors, including ones at Mayo Clinic in Rochester. At the time, many of these doctors were writing several books and chapters of text books as they made advances in developing and documenting accepted nursing practices. Ardelle is even pictured in the textbook, “Toxemias of Pregnancy” authored by Dr. William Joseph Dieckmann, with whom she was assisting in the research.

Perhaps Ardelle’s highest professional and personal achievement, though, was one that she didn’t even have to leave her house to accomplish. In the mid-1960’s, the life expectancy of a Type 1 diabetic was only 2025 years. As a mother, Ardelle was successful in raising three of her children who were diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes during this time and helped them beat the odds. Over 50 years later, all three of these children are alive and doing well. This fact in itself continues to be a huge testament to her skills, knowledge, expert care and ability to educate her kids on how to live with diabetes.

Ardelle has lived a life dedicated to both service and Waldorf through Russ’ and her ministries around the nation, faithful attendance at Waldorf concerts, programs, homecoming activities, theatre productions and a continued financial support of

the Waldorf Lutheran College Foundation and the Osnes Family Scholarship awarded each year. She truly embodies all aspects of what it genuinely means to be part of the Warrior family.

Waldorf was also privileged to recognize Dr. Laura (Satre) Friesenborg for outstanding leadership and commitment to higher education administration and business while demonstrating her Christian faith in service to her church and community. Laura, a 1995 graduate of Waldorf, was extremely involved as a student, earning the Dean’s Award and the President’s Scholar of Distinction Award and graduating Summa Cum Laude with degrees in sociology and psychology.

Laura eventually went on to work at Waldorf in various roles over the next 15 years.

This included serving as the first-ever director of career planning, the director of the Federal Title III Grant Project and eventually leading the efforts to create Waldorf’s first master’s degree program.

From Forest City, Laura went on to work for National Louis University out of Chicago, Ill., and then Paul T. Bucci & Associates before landing in her current position as Associate Vice President of Institutional Effectiveness in East Peoria, Ill. In this role, she leads the Institutional Research and Planning ...

AWARDS continued page 28

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FOUNDATION NEWS

A LETTER FROM THE FOUNDATION CHAIR

definitely has excelled setting records here in Pentathlon, Heptathlon, 4x200 and 4x800 relays. She belongs to several clubs at Waldorf including Amnesty International, Student Senate, World Student Association and the Biology Club. With an amazing work ethic, she has worked in six different campus jobs during her time here, has received national recognition as a student athlete and was named homecoming queen this past fall. As an aside, I want to share an experience Patri had which tells us a lot about the "Waldorf family." In April 2017, Patri boarded an airplane and found herself sitting next to Waldorf alumna Evelyn Oftedahl ‘53, who was on the homecoming court at Waldorf in 1953. Patri and Evelyn have become very good friends and truly are a special presence in each other's lives.

Dear Friends, It is almost spring on the Waldorf University campus, and as the landscape changes to green, flowers start to bloom and we hear the chirping of birds returning from a winter spent in warmer climates, we are reminded of new beginnings. I think of the Waldorf University class of 2019 who will soon graduate and are very close to experiencing "new beginnings" in what we sometimes call the "real world." I am confident about the future of these soon-to-be graduates because I know that each has been strengthened by his or her own "Waldorf experience." A few years ago a young lady in commenting on her Waldorf experience stated: "I have been challenged mentally, emotionally, physically and spiritually, and I have become a stronger, better version of myself." And so it is. Waldorf University has made a difference in the lives of these young people just as they will live lives that make a difference.

I want to focus this letter on Waldorf international students. I think many of you will be surprised to learn that Waldorf University has 67 international students representing 29 different countries. With a total residential population of 568, this means that international students represent about 12 percent of the student body. How fortunate and blessed we are to have such a diverse student body at a small university in a small town in Iowa. Waldorf students, faculty and staff as well as the entire Forest City community are enriched by having these students here.

I want to tell you about a couple of the students, Patricia “Patri” German Molina, a senior from the Canary Islands-Tenerife, which is part of Spain, and Kaleb Betwos, a freshman from Ethiopia. I am so glad that I have had the opportunity to meet these two awesome young people, and I can assure you that both are wonderful additions to the Waldorf family. There are a few things I can tell you that apply to both of them. They are both very self-motivated and goal-oriented, both excel academically, both plan to be doctors and both found Iowa winters to be quite an adjustment as "cold" is not really a term used in either the Canary Islands or in Ethiopia. Patri has a younger sister attending Waldorf who also wants to be a doctor. Patri came to Waldorf with a track and field scholarship, and she

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Kaleb actually came to the United States at the age of 16 when he was awarded a prestigious scholarship to an academy in Wisconsin.

When he had been at the academy for about six months, he was instrumental in clearing the path for his identical twin brother, Eyasu, to come to the United States where he also studied at the same academy. Eyasu is now attending college in California. Kaleb was interested in societal problems in Ethiopia, e.g., literacy, healthcare and gender equity. One of the more meaningful experiences in his life was at the age of 15 when he joined a volunteer program to help teach children who could not afford school. Besides the academic subjects he also focused on their character and moral development which he found to be very rewarding. His goal is to become a neurosurgeon so he can offer hope to all who suffer from brain injuries or organic abnormalities, regardless of their ability to pay.

Since he was young, Kaleb has been intrigued by the various functions of the brain and anomalies that keep people from living life fully and with purpose. When he first came to Waldorf Kaleb was lonely as he was separated from his twin brother for the first time but he has been able to overcome those feelings and make friends by joining different clubs. He is also involved in student government and campus ministry.

Both Patri and Kaleb speak highly of their "Waldorf experiences" noting that the professors here are really supportive and willing to help in and outside of class. Kaleb noted that one thing that makes Waldorf University unique is the diverse student body representing many different countries and the cultural integration. Patri says she has grown both personally and professionally at Waldorf, and she even credits Iowa winters for making her stronger!

We ask for your continuing support of the Waldorf Foundation so that we can provide scholarships which make that "Waldorf experience" attainable by more young people. You truly can make a difference in their lives.

Raymond M. Beebe Chair, Waldorf Lutheran College Foundation Retired Vice President, General Counsel Secretary Winnebago Industries, Inc. 1974–2012

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CAMPUS MINISTRY

Dear Friends, It seems that not too long ago, I shared with you about the continual growth we have experienced here on campus with campus ministry, yet here we are already approaching the end of the school year. It's amazing how much energy is put into planning for the start of the year and then how quickly that time seems to pass. As always though, this year has been filled with many moments of laughter, contemplation and personal growth which serves as a reminder of how important community is to our Waldorf family. More importantly, amidst the highs and lows of the semester, our community was able to hold firm to the challenge of pursuing God and his sovereign role in our lives.

As you probably know, the challenge of continually seeking God is not an easy task when you begin to factor in the aspects of life– many of them unpredictable–that tend to distract us. When you begin to consider the turbulent life of the college student today, it's almost miraculous that we have been able to create an atmosphere that offers faith experiences rich enough to warrant attention.

Whether it be during the several worship opportunities that occur each week or the weekend retreats that we get to spend away from academics and athletics, there is an ever-growing passion for authentic and meaningful relationships that promotes the faith forming culture that many of us have prayed for and worked so hard to see established.

Although, this culture is captured each week during our weekly

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chapel service, it can also be found all across campus. This year I have noticed that many of our staff members have begun encouraging each other with regular meetings for devotions. Look closely, and you may even notice students meeting during the early morning hours at the local coffee shop; reflecting on their weeks and discussing scripture. As with any community, there will always be struggles and obstacles to overcome, but there is no denying that God is working in the lives of so many of us here on our campus.

None of this would be possible today though without the fertile tradition that those who came before us were insightful enough to leave behind for us to carry on. Waldorf has seen many changes over the years, even more so during the short time that I have been fortunate to be part of its story. However, it would seem that despite the test of time, we have managed to keep God and faith as important as they have ever been.

Again, I would like to thank our administration, the Foundation and the Association of Congregations for the endless work that goes into supporting Waldorf Campus Ministry because we would not be able to claim success without it.

Peace,

Antoine R. Cummins Campus Ministry Coordinator waldorf.edu

CAMPUS MINISTRY “I also believe there is a need for immigration reform, but being here in the Midwest which is so far removed from the borders where there is heavy immigration causes us to rely on the media to give us information on which to base our views and opinions. I think it’s important to remember media will be biased based on the opinions of the reporter - which is why I am excited for this trip and why I think what we learn can be so important in forming our own opinions based on what we see and hear ourselves from people truly experiencing both sides of the immigration and citizenship process.”

Kassidy Bunger Senior Business Major Wellsburg, IA

“People come to the United States because of struggles in their homelands and do not wish to take advantage of this country, but rather seek opportunities for themselves and their families.

There is also the struggle of assimilation.

I think this is one issue that is huge today, also in Europe, especially when it comes to Muslims. I would love to learn more about the immigration policies.”

Madina Tuhbattullina Sophomore English Major Turkmenistan

“Politicians and the media are trying to persuade US citizens to take a side on immigration and immigration reform.

Instead of taking a side, we can use our privilege and power as citizens to unlearn what we think we know about immigration, listen to those affected by immigration, and advocate for a better immigration procedure. Looking forward to learning more about the issue.”

IMMIGRATION REFORM RALLY

Sharese Hall Waldorf Staff Member New York, NY

Last fall, our campus ministry partnered with several organizations including the campus ministries from University of Iowa and University of Northern Iowa, Iowa’s Poor People Campaign and the Iowa Students for refugee’s movement, for a weekend to promote immigration reform. During the weekend our group listened to the stories from Iowans impacted by harmful immigration laws and learned about ways in which we could use our own power and privilege to advocate for justice. Our students were also taught about the history of non-violent protest and trained in movement building best practices. The weekend ended with a powerful interfaith worship service that was put together by the organization “Just Church” where we had the opportunity to worship and interact with many community leaders representing several nations and religions.

“I have never applied for citizenship, but I know family and friends who have and from their experience it’s takes a lot of time, effort, and, most importantly, finances, which for a good amount of people that are trying to come to the US is something they are not privileged with.”

Saheed Olaosebikan Senior Criminal Justice Major Lagos, Nigeria

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“Not everyone crossing the border is coming to “steal our jobs” or “bring in drugs”. That being said, I wish there would be more information available about how hard it is to gain citizenship and more about the struggles that people face, and maybe how THEY feel about the wall and border security.”

Gretchen Burnette Service Learning Trip leader Sophomore English Major Spirit Lake, IA

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CAMPUS MINISTRY

SAN DIEGO SERVICE LEARNING TRIP Exploring Poverty and Immigration

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ast year’s spring break trip was an incredible success, and this year we are looking forward to continuing to learn about the various forms of oppression that marginalized communities face in our nation. This year, our group will be traveling to San Diego, Calif., in partnership with the Lutheran Campus Ministry at San Diego State University and several local organizations to explore themes of poverty and immigration. Recent immigration concerns and the increased media attention for immigration reform has seemed to reveal a general misunderstanding in our nation regarding the matter, and we will set out to engage with the immigration realities that so many people deal with on a daily basis but rarely have the privilege or platform to share.

While in San Diego, we will learn about the immigration process, as well as revisit the definitions of many of the terms that are loosely used in narratives today including: refugee, asylum, illegal immigrant, sanctuary status, unaccompanied minor, etc. We will be working alongside several non-profit organizations and community leaders who work towards justice and equality with the hope of being able to adopt best practices that promote sustainable change in our own communities.

Due to positive responses that we had from our trip to the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation, we will again model our trip after the ELCA “Peace Not Walls” initiative that focuses on the three pillars of Accompaniment, Awareness-Raising and Advocacy. Learning from our experiences last year, we hope to resist the urge “to help” and again hope to fully embody our role as privileged guests of those who live in a world that rarely interacts with our own in mutually beneficial ways. We look forward to the many opportunities to listen--not with intent to respond but with the intent to fully embrace realities that may differ and even conflict with our own--which is unfortunately something that we don’t do often enough in our society. We also look forward to walking alongside those who have been neglected or censored by selective media coverage, and most importantly we are excited to return from our trip to share our experiences with our campus and local organizations who have supported our service learning initiative in hopes of honoring the stories that we hear and raising awareness.

If your group, church or organization would be interested in having our student participants share about our trip we would love to connect with you so feel free to contact Antoine Cummins at antoine.cummins@waldorf.edu for more information.

PILLARS

Waldorf Pillars Scholarships provide up to four years of full tuition ($80,000 +) to new Waldorf University residential students.

The Pillars Scholarships are awarded to students with scholastic aspiration and passion. Recipients of our scholarships receive affordable and valuable connections to faculty, out-of-classroom experiences and extraordinary opportunities in internships and research.

Providing living-and-learning communities outside of the regular classroom setting provides the student valuable social connections within their field of interest.

Scholarship Areas include:

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Education History-Political Science Honors Leadership Psychology Service Learning-Rotaract Women in Leadership

WALDORF MAGAZINE // SPRING 2019

For more information about the Waldorf Pillars Scholarships, including requirements and applications, please email admissions@waldorf.edu, call 800.292.1903 or apply at waldorf.edu/admissions.

For the past three years, that statement has been repeated over and over again in my mind. In the process, that scared, anxious, 250 pound guy, who nearly flunked out of high school transformed his mind and became driven like no other. I lost an outrageous amount of weight and became the fittest I have ever been. My body fat was reduced to 7 percent, and I competitively raced in several half marathons, a marathon and an ultra-trail marathon. Since earning my master’s degree, I became a board certified personal trainer and an endurance training specialist. I have no desire in slowing down anytime soon.

Waldorf University changed my life. Although I am no different than anyone else, my positive experience at Waldorf boosted my confidence and my sense of self-worth.

Waldorf was a major contributor to transforming my weak mindset into a driven, “I can do anything” mindset. Because I took the right path at the crossroads, persevered through the hard times and found Waldorf University, I am fulfilling the promises I made to myself and to my grandfather: I am being the best father, husband and person I can be.

Nothing’s impossible anymore. I am a Waldorf Warrior.

AWARDS continued

...Department and the college’s seven strategic planning teams as well as serves as the chief strategy advisor to the college’s president.

Waldorf is so grateful for alumnae like these two women who so positively represent the Waldorf family in their efforts to better the world around them. We were privileged to honor both Laura and Ardelle and are excited to see where life continues to take them!

With an average class size of 15 students and a student-to-faculty ratio of 11:1, your education will be personalized to you.

Art Biology Business Campus Ministry Creative Writing-English Digital Media-Communications

...going to come no matter what, you’ll either have it or you won’t.”

But it wasn’t just her impressive accolades that made Laura so deserving of this honor.

The Waldorf alumna is notorious for her always positive attitude, enthusiasm and seemingly endless encouragement, in addition to constantly pursuing a life that glorifies God.

SCHOLARSHIPS

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waldorf.edu 106 S. 6th St. Forest City, IA waldorf.edu // 800.292.1903

ALUMNI NEWS

CLASS UPDATE

CLASS UPDATES: 1950'S Leanna (Morley) Hendrickson ’53 retired from teaching kindergarten in St. Ansgar and Osage after 38 years. She has four children and seven grandchildren.

Janet (Severaid) Hermanson ’53 and her husband Pete winter in Mesa, Ariz. They have five children, 18 grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.

Ray Brodland ’58 resides in Sun City, Ariz.

He and his wife Connie (Roinos) ’59 are actively retired. “I enjoy bowling, reading and am a Stephan Minister in my church.

We have resided in Arizona the past thirtyfour years, so it’s home.” Email: clsd3839@ gmail.com

three years of teaching third grade. Then in the summer and fall of 1968, all four were married and three of the four to Waldorf "boys". They called this summer's celebration "200 Years of Marriage!"(After hearing repective stories they opted for "Years of Marriage" instead of "Years of Marital Bliss.") From left, Elizabeth (Pederson) Tweeten, ‘63, John Tweeten, ‘62, Lois (Carlson) Wagner, ‘63, Dean Wagner, ‘64, Lucy (Moland) Miller, ‘64, Gary Miller, ‘64, Linda (Hoversten) Singer, ‘64, and Noel Singer. What a special group!

Phyllis (Laugen) Diggs / Loel Diggs ’58 “Our Children: Lt. Commander Tom Diggs is a nurse-anesthetist based in Camp Lejune, N.C., Corey Diggs is a captain with the Los Angelos Co. Fire Department.”

Judy (Christensen) Gelhaus ’58 has been married 57 years to her spouse, Dean, and they have lived on the same farm all those years. They have two children, Jeff and Kristi, and five grandchildren. She is retired from teaching and is keeping busy and loving outside work!

Shirley (Sande) Ploegstra ’58 “On August 17, 2016, I lost my husband of almost 52 years. Adrian had been on hospice for almost six months, so his passing wasn’t a big surprise, but the void he left was huge. He had retired from his career as a claims manager for Farm Bureau Insurance in 1992, and I retired from full-time substitute teaching in our local school in 2000. This gave us more time to devote to farming our 340 acres here in Polk County and to worldwide travel, which we thoroughly enjoyed. I’m still living on the farm along I-35 north of Ankeny and plan to do so as long as possible. My two sons live close by: Mark in Ames and Carl in Ankeny. My daughter Paula’s family just moved to Ham Lake from Blaine in northern Minneapolis. I make periodic trips up there to attend the activities of my two granddaughters who are super active. Gardening and yard upkeep keep me occupied when I’m home.”

CLASS UPDATES: 1960'S These four couples (pictured below) all celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary this summer. The wives, who had all graduated from Waldorf College, been housemates with Liz in the Twin Cities during her first

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Marcia (Ott) Duncan ’63 resides in Alexis, Ill. She and her husband David celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on July 6, 2018, with a party including Waldorf alumni E. David ‘64 and Judy (WOlf) Sbragia ’63. Email: marciajduncan@gmail.com Cordelia “Cookie” (Glembin) Kotek ’63 resides in Chisago City, Minn. Email: bckotek@gmail.com Richard “Dick” Polly ’63 “My Waldorf experience was the most formative of my life. I thank you all for your lives and our time together!”

Neal Wensinger ’65 and his wife Joan celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on Aug. 17, 2018. They were treated to a wonderful and relaxing five-day trip to Machinac Island, Mich.!

William “Bill” Christ ’68 resides in Roseville Minn., and is active as a volunteer for Global Minnesota’s Great Decisions foreign policy discussion groups as a speaker and presenter. He retired from a corporate consulting business in 2014 and retired from the ELCA as a pastor in 2007. Email: williamchrist@boreal.org Peggy “Peg” (Duenow) Guenther ’68 “I have been married for 47 years. I retired after over 40 years as a radiographer (xray technologist). My husband is a retired Lt. Col. In the Air Force. We have two daughters both married, and we have five grandchildren. Since retirement, we travel as much as we can. We just returned from a Viking River Cruise in Europe and plan to go

to Hawaii over the Christmas holidays.”

Frederick “Fred” Hicks ’68 resides in Lodi, Calif.

Dr. Robert Knutson ’68 “Following graduating from Waldorf, I transferred to Luther College, graduating in 1970. Next, I graduated from the University of Iowa as a dentist. Following teaching “operative dentistry” at the College of Dentistry, I moved to Madison, Wisc. In Madison, I enjoyed being part of a family dental practice for 42 years, retiring in June last year. Family dental practice was truly my life’s calling, and I enjoyed all aspects of the close family relationships that result from long-term associations with people who mean a lot to you. It was a joy and an honor to treat the grandchildren of patients who I first treated as children themselves! Retiring was a difficult decision, but the correct decision at the correct time. My wife, Nancy, and I share three children: Emilie, Hawk and Alyssa. This year we welcomed foreign student Fracesco from Italy into our home, and the resulting relationship is an ongoing delight! We live in a farm setting outside of Madison.

Emilie and I actively participate in competition carriage driving with one of our horses, Zoey. Practicing for competition and then competing is a summer long pastime. Since Alyssa is still in high school, we haven’t traveled much but look forward to travel in the future. The Waldorf years were, for all of us, a real time of passage into adulthood. And I think we owe Waldorf, and each other, a really sincere “Thank you!” for being there when we needed one another. The world was changing all around us, and Waldorf, and we as part of Waldorf, were caught up in that change. The issues may have been silly-dancing, beanies for freshman, freshman rebellion at initiation, curfews, etc., but addressing these changes as we did was a step in preparing us to confront the much larger issues which we all were to soon face in real life. I am thankful to Waldorf, and the students and faculty around me, for the Waldorf Experience. Waldorf itself would soon face the basic challenge of survival as a living institution. Whatever we may feel about the circumstances which brought about the current Waldorf University, I personally feel that the present stewards have done a marvelous job, against huge challenges, of preserving this fine educational institution! Indeed, the Waldorf Experience continues for students who will one day soon celebrate their own 50th reunion! My very best to each of you!”

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ALUMNI NEWS Warren Torkelson ’68 resides in Mason City after moving into a newly built twin home in 2014. Prior to that, they lived in Garner where Warren was owner and operator of the Garner Greenhouse for 18 years until 2005 when they sold the business. He then worked for Bill’s Family Foods in Garner until fully retiring in 2016. His wife, Margaret taught in the Garner Hayfield Schools for 32 years before retiring in 2009. They are both enjoying retirement doing many volunteer activities in the Mason City community.

Email: torkels@msn.com Kathryn “Kathie” (Boyd) Zipf ’68 resides in Palmyra, Pa. Email: kathiezipf@gmail.com “We celebrated our 47th wedding anniversary this year. We have four grown sons and nine grandchildren. We both still work part-time but are retired from our vocational work. I volunteer at the school where I formally taught K-8 music, and now teach a weekly Pre3 music class for fun. I am the new director of the JOY Choir, a senior adult group of singers from our community. We find great joy in serving faithfully in our local church teaching Sunday school together.”

CLASS UPDATES: 1970'S Mark Peters ’73 is working for Cliff Viesmann, Inc. hauling food grade liquid products.

Gaile (Lasch) Schriber ’74 resides in Sidney, Ohio. “I am retired and spend my time quilting. My husband and I have four children and four grandchildren.” Email: iluvquilts2@hotmail.com Mary (Watson) Hamilton ’76 resides in Lorena, Tex. Email: mary.hamilton122@ gmail.com Fay (Rasmussen) Bohn ’78 retired in 2015 from a 24-year career as a bilingual teacher and coach with Redwood City School District.

Carole (Holtan) Kettwick ’78 “In 2011, I retired from teaching music but took an accounting position and worked at that job until 2016. Now, I keep busy helping my husband with the farm work, travel and other projects that I put off for far too long!

Mike is still working at the bank in Buffalo Center. He has plans to retire from the bank in 2019, but we will continue to farm as long as we are able. We have three grown sons. Two are in the Twin Cities area and one is in West Des Moines. We have one grandchild; he will be two-years-old soon.

We are both involved in volunteer work in our community and church. I’m especially 30

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CLASS UPDATE

enjoying my new role as a docent at the Frank Lloyd Wright-designed Stockman House in Mason City.”

CLASS UPDATES: 1980'S Ellen Eliason ’86 resides in Shakopee, Minn. Email: eeliason66@gmail.com Cindy (Stinson) Paquin ’86 resides in Byron, Minn. She married Matthew Paquin on November 11, 2017. Her mother, Janice Stinson passed away in March 2018. Email: cinpaquin2017@gmail.com

Jeffrey Perigo ’16 resides in Menasha, Wisc. Email: FDTower1@yahoo.com Jenna (Rasmussen) Tuttle ‘17 was married on August 25, 2018, and began a new job at Farmers Coop Association in Forest City on August 28.

Thomas “Andy” Lalor ’18 resides in Edwardsville, Illi. Email: sorter34@yahoo.com Manoucheca Marcelin ’18 resides in Murrieta, Calif. Email: Manoucheca78@gmail. com

Eric Steffy ’86 resides in Windsor Heights.

Email: emsteffy@msn.com Robin (Browne) Hurlbutt ’89 resides in Mankato, Minn. Email: robina4@yahoo.com Karen (Ostermeyer) Krueger ’89 resides in North Sioux City, S.D. Email: kkrueger@ cableone.net

CLASS UPDATES: 2000'S Brian Cibula ’00 and his wife Jen had twin boys in Feb. 2018.

Calvin Johnson ’03 resides in Indianola.

Email: ocalvinjohnson@yahoo.comng Rev. Christopher Martin ’05 was installed as the 11th Pastor of St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church-Vilmar, rural Green, on August 26, 2018, by the Rev. Marshall Hahn, Dean of the Iowa Mission DistrictNorth American Lutheran Church (NALC).

Pastor Martin comes to St. John’s after having previously served Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church, Audobon, the McConnellsburg Lutheran Parish, McConnellsburg, PA and Emmons Lutheran Church, Emmons, Minn. During his last year at Emmons, he also served part time on an interim basis at Bethel Lutheran Church-Vinje, rural Scarville.

Megan (Martin) Thornton ’06 resides in Lake Butler, Fla. Email: meganrmthornton@ gmail.com

ABOVE: Sisters, Marcia Aubineau of St. Paul, Minn., and Pat Gardner of Hartford, Wis., are the great-granddaughters of Caroline Charlson and Christian Salveson—who our dear Salveson Hall is named after! The duo stopped by for a visit last summer and got a photo on those famous front steps.

Kevin DeVries ’08 resides in Murray, Ky. Email: devrieskevin04@gmail.com Nikki Pals ’08 resides in Radcliffe. She recently bought a house and works as a special education teacher at the state training school in Eldora.

SUBMIT your NEWS!

CLASS UPDATES: 2010'S Otis Terrell ’13 lives in Corpus Christi, Texas. Email: terrell2348@gmail.com Kelli Lair ’15 recently relocated from Kuwait to Shanghai, China, to teach Kindergarten – 6th grade general music and band.

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., Forestwaldorf.edu City, Iowa 50436.

IN MEMORIAM For a more detailed list of In Memoriam, please visit waldorf.edu/memoriam

IN MEMORIAM: 1930'S Pershing Johnson ’39 passed away peacefully on Sept. 29, 2018.

IN MEMORIAM: 1940'S Nadine (Thompson) Howlett ’40 passed away June 18, 2018.

Elizabeth “Liz” (Carson) Olson ’54 passed away on May 8, 2018.

Gerald Boman ’55 passed away on June 20, 2018.

Richard Wempen ’55 passed away on Nov. 14, 2018.

ALUMNI NEWS

IN MEMORIAM: 1990'S James Smith ’92 unexpectedly passed away on July 2, 2018 at the University of Minnesota Hospital in Minneapolis.

IN MEMORIAM: 2000'S

George Patchin ’56 died on June 18, 2018, at Mayo Clinic in Mankato, Minn.

Ryan Bendickson ’00 passed away July 16, 2018, after a four-year battle with liver failure.

John Johnson ’58 passed away on Sept.

28, 2018, in Story City.

Cassey Sanger ’04 passed away on Oct. 15, 2018.

Norma (Johnson) Hamilton ’44 died July 14, 2018.

Maryalys (Klemesrud) Klapmeier ’59 died on August 30, 2018, in St. Paul, Minn.

Matthew James ’13 passed away unexpectedly on Sept. 5, 2018.

Maynis (Larson) Aamodt ’45 passed away Oct. 6, 2018, at the Lake Mills Care Center.

IN MEMORIAM: 1960'S

Sewell Mathre ’42 of Maple Grove, Minn. passed away on Nov. 19, 2016. He was a Waldorf Alumni Distinguished Service Award Recipient.

Margaret (Garnas) Cosner ’45 died March 11, 2018, of natural causes.

Grace (Erdahl) Mickelson ’45 died Nov. 30, 2018.

Ardell Banker ’48 passed away July 30, 2018, at his home in Idaho surrounded by his wife and daughter. He was a recipient of the Alumni Distinguished Service Award from Waldorf.

Daryl (Lundberg) Narveson ’48 passed away on Oct. 11, 2018, at Mercy Medical Center in Des Moines.

IN MEMORIAM: 1950'S Marilyn (Graeber) Bender ’50 passed away peacefully on Aug. 15, 2018.

Betty (Holtan) Heyerdahl ’50 passed away on July 4, 2018.

Donna (Jacogson) Kammin ’52 passed away on July 7, 2018.

Dale Mitchell ’52 passed away on June 22, 2018, after an 18-year battle with Parkinson’s Disease.

Marlys (Adams) Thovson ’53 passed away on Dec. 2, 2018, with her loving husband of 63 years by her side.

James Hagen ’54 passed away on Oct. 12, 2018.

waldorf.edu

Barbara (Lemme) Engels ’60 passed away on Nov. 1, 2018.

Steven Baldwin ’63 passed away on May 5, 2011.

Kent Amsberry ’68 died on Oct. 19, 2018.

Janice (Griner) Helfritz ’68 died on Dec. 30, 2017, in Wells, Minn.

Joanne (Thompson) Jensen ’68 passed away on Sept. 24, 2018, while on a trip to Chicago.

IN MEMORIAM: 1970'S Marianne (Thompson) Bernhardt ’71 died on April 6, 2018.

Stephen Opheim ’72 passed away on Sept.

27, 2018.

Debra (Vomhof) Brown ’74 passed away on Sept. 9, 2018, after a courageous 17year battle with cancer.

Kathy Amo ’75 passed away on July 6, 2018.

Dennis Parent ’76 died on Sept. 3, 2018.

IN MEMORIAM: 1980'S Larry Kalvig ’80 died on Nov. 21, 2018, from kidney disease.

Tammy (Chantrill) Lawver ’84 died on Oct. 6, 2017.

AWARD-WINNING EDUCATOR & AUTHOR, ERIN GRUWELL On Tuesday, February 19, award-winning educator and author Erin Gruwell gave a keynote presentation to a packed auditorium in the Boman Fine Arts Center. Students, educators and community members alike gathered together to hear 90 minutes of Gruwell’s emotional stories from her time as a teacher in Long Beach, Calif.

Gruwell has earned an award-winning reputation for her steadfast commitment to the future of education. Her impact as a change agent attracted Hollywood’s attention, and in 2007, Paramount pictures released “Freedom Writers,” starring Hilary Swank as Erin. The film is based on “The Freedom Writers Diary,” the New York Times bestseller that chronicled Gruwell’s extraordinary journey with her 150 high school students who dubbed themselves the “Freedom Writers” in homage to the Civil Rights activists the Freedom Riders.

Gruwell has long been impacting lives with her stories and inspirational words, and the Forest City community was honored to have her share her time and wisdom with us!

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C OC T S T O S TS E GE I A L G NON-PROFIT E IAL IAL OCWaldorf Lutheran College G US POSTAGE F O U N D A T I O N S L OC C T PAID T O GE S L S E COLORFX A ET G ET I A L A L G C I O I I A L S O C S O C ET S ET G L G CI AL T ET E L G L G CI A A SO I C T O S O ET IA SWaldorfUniversity L E C A G G I O G ET ET L IAL O C A G I C OC T S T AL CIALWaldorfUniversity O E GE A L S TS G T O I E IAL AL EWaldorf_U S C G G O I L AL O C S C A I T I S S O G E G ET I A L OC Swaldorf.edu T OC GE//T800.292.1903 E IAL IAL O C G T G E C I A L C I A L S O C S O C ET S ET L S O T S O G ET G ET I A L G A L G C I A G E C I A L C I A L S O C S O C I ET S O Waldorf Theatre Company S O T S O G ET G ET I A L G A L 2018-19 Season I L E L C C Mainstage Productions WALDORF UNIVERSITY A G JANUARY 2019 I 16, C I A SO SO C S O T S O G ET G ET FINE ARTS SCHEDULES E IAL IAL GMARCH C2-10, 2019 C SO T SO TheatreCompany Schedule Waldorf Music Schedule Waldorf Waldorf Theatre E 2019 Season G 2019 Season 2018-19 Season 106 S. 6th St. Forest City, IA 50436

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Parents: If this is addressed to your son or daughter who no longer maintains a permanent address at your home, please notify the Alumni Office, 641.585.8148 or email us at alumni@waldorf.edu

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JANUARY

2019 WA LD O RF E V ENTS

Spring Semester Begins MARCH

September 26-29, 2018

Spring Break APRIL

Mainstage Productions

APRIL 10, 2019

Honor's Day

APRIL 12-13, 2019 Theatre Workshop Weekend

APRIL 19, 2019 Easter Break MAY

Career Day Concert, March 13 7:30 p.m. @ BFAC (combined band & choir)

November 14-17, 2018

Ensemble Tours, March 14-18 destinations TBA Spring Concert Wind Symphony, April 28 3 p.m. @ BFAC

September February 26-29, 13-16, 2018 2019

Spring Concert Choir, April 28 7 p.m. @ BFAC

MAY 11, 2019 Commencement JULY

JULY 12, 2019 New Student Orientation

Student and faculty recitals will also take place in the Odvin Hagen Music Center, Recital Hall. Dates and times for these events will be added to the main website as well as the Waldorf University Music Department social media pages.

November 14-17,2019 2018 April 10-13,

Box Office: 641.585.8288 waldorf.edu February 13-16, 2019

AUGUST

AUGUST 26-27, 2019 Fall Orientation

AUGUST 28, 2019 Fall Semester Begins OCTOBER

OCTOBER 18-20, 2019 Homecoming

April 10-13, 2019

Box Office: 641.585.8288 waldorf.edu