Waldorf Magazine: Spring 2022

Page 1

HONORS DAY, PG. 22

HOMECOMING REC AP, PG. 6

G RIN SP 20 22

Learning, Living and Serving PG. 18

TRADITION

//

PASSION

//

COM MUNITY

//

SUCCESS


CAMPUS NEWS CAMPUS NEWS 3

From The President's Desk

6

Homecoming 2021 Recap

8

Take A Walk Around Waldorf

10

Why Waldorf?

11

Christmas With Waldorf

12

Athletics Recap

24

Campus Ministry Notes

FOUNDATION NEWS 4

Foundation Notes

21

From The Foundation Chair

22

Honors Day 2021

ALUMNI

WHY DO YOU GIVE TO THE WALDORF LUTHERAN COLLEGE FOUNDATION? Did your time at Waldorf change your life? Did you meet lifelong friends? Or maybe you were able to start the process of turning your passion into your career? Was it a professor who truly cared? The Waldorf Lutheran College Foundation would be nothing without our generous and devoted donors. We want to know you and your Waldorf story. Reach out to alumni@waldorf.edu today to tell us why you have decided to give back!

ALUMNI NEWS Jaclyn Sifert

15

Director of Alumni Relations Waldorf University

Alumni Profile: Kaitlyn Monck '18

16

Alumni Profile: Kevin McGee '21

18

Alumni Profile: Learning, Living & Serving

20

STAY IN TOUCH As faithful stewards of our resources and in an effort to go green, please let the alumni office know if you prefer not to receive a printed copy of the Waldorf Magazine. A digital copy is available online at waldorf.edu/waldorf-magazine. The Waldorf Magazine, published each spring and fall, is largely funded by donations to the Waldorf Lutheran College Foundation. We thank you for your continued support and welcome your input for future articles. Please contact the alumni office at 641.585.8148 or alumni@waldorf.edu with your ideas. Want to stay connected to 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.

Alumni Award Recipients VOLUME 119, ISSUE 2

26 27 2

Class News In Memoriam WALDORF MAGAZINE // SPRING 2022

//

SPRING 2022

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

ADMISSIONS OFFICE admissions@waldorf.edu 641.585.8112 800.292.1903

MANAGING EDITOR Jaclyn Sifert

DESIGNERS Jaclyn Sifert Tara Kingland

EDITORS Kathy Rollefson Sheryl Barbour

CONTRIBUTORS Jaclyn Sifert John Cabral

waldorf.edu


CAMPUS NEWS

FROM THE PRESIDENT'S DESK

MISSION

VISION

VALUES

Waldorf University

Waldorf University

Academic Excellence

educates the entire person, equipping

aspires to be distinctive, affordable,

Community Diverse and Inclusive

students for lives of fulfillment in

values driven, innovative

Faith and Service Affordable

communities where

and digital.

Innovative and Flexible

they live and serve.

Over a year ago the strategic planning committee started to meet to construct a new five-year plan. The first task of the committee was to review our mission, vision and values statement (See Above). After much consideration, the committee made very few revisions to the mission statement. Although, with some thoughtful editing, it now reads much more smoothly and easier to memorize (there will be a quiz at homecoming). The vision statement is a new articulation of our aspirations that will guide us forward. The values section has been developed to better reflect who we are and how we operate. They not only recognize Waldorf’s history and traditions, but also its future with terms like “innovative” and “flexibility.” There is a certain tension between tradition and innovation. Innovation often means disruption, change, and doing things in ways they have not been done before. There is certain risk involved with innovation as well as a sense of loss of doing things differently. But rather than thinking of innovation in opposition to tradition, we can imagine innovation and flexibility as an impetus for evolving traditions. We have experienced this at Waldorf as we developed online programs. As Waldorf rolled out our first online programs twelve years ago, we wondered if we could deliver that special Waldorf experience, which Ray Beebe frequently writes about in

waldorf.edu

Big Opportunities

this magazine, to students who may never step foot on Waldorf’s campus. It is so gratifying to hear from our online students who rave about the faculty and staff who pushed them to succeed and would not let them fail. Now rather than seeing the online program as just an add on to our residential programs, it is woven into the very tapestry of Waldorf’s history. In fact, Jaclyn Sifert is working on establishing new traditions for online students to engage in at commencement. In Dr. Espeland’s article, we can see innovation pushing traditions forward in the music department. Whether it is faculty who are challenged with new schedules or students who are challenged with new tasks, they have risen and continue to rise to the challenge, finding new ways to articulate old traditions. In this particular time of disruption at the global level, we must be able to adapt to things out of our control while at the same time find ways to respect tradition. With the revised articulations of the mission, vision and values, Waldorf University is well suited to do just that. Sincerely,

Dr. Robert A. Alsop Waldorf University President

SPRING 2022 // WALDORF MAGAZINE

3


FOUNDATION NOTES

grateful for educators Dorothea Dix once said, “The duties of a teacher are neither few nor small, but they elevate the mind and give energy to the character”. I have thought of this quote often over the past few months as I continue to read about teacher burnout in the news. Teachers are essential. Teachers teach all other professions. I would not be the person I am today if it was not for the positive and meaningful moments I have shared over the years with teachers. None of us would be.

not only caused damage to my classmate’s folder, but also his feeling’s. I felt terrible which was evident by the tears rolling down my cheeks. Mrs. Foth explained to me that we all make mistakes, but it’s how we recover from our mistakes that defines us. She advised that I apologize to my classmate. I followed my teacher’s advice and as elementary students do – my classmate and I were soon friends again. I’ve never forgotten the importance of learning from my mistakes and the necessity of a heartfelt apology.

I cannot honestly say that every teacher I had left a distinct impression on me but I can guarantee that every teacher taught me something – even if it was not planned in his or her curriculum. I don’t remember much from my advertising class in college, but I do remember how Ms. Gubanc treated me and quite honestly saved my college career.

I would be remiss if I did not mention my high school English teacher. Mr. Gamble was known for throwing staplers and being a grump. Mr. Gamble had also been teaching for over 40 years when I became his student. One of his favorite sayings was “I’m gonna cut off your arm and beat you with it!” This quote was always followed by a small grin. My friend Jeremy and I sat next to each other in our senior English class. We had an ongoing joke about goats and various other farm animals and would get an awful case of the giggles. There was many a time the threat of a stapler was unleashed upon us. However, Jeremy and I were also very good writers, and our stories were full of creativity and boundless amounts of research. Mr. Gamble went easy on us, and I never did see a stapler thrown or an arm cut off. Instead, Mr. Gamble fine-tuned our grammar and punctuation and enlightened us with new vocabulary words daily. He made learning and writing English enjoyable and his grumpiness soon became endearing. I never struggled when it came to writing papers in college and I have Mr. Gamble to thank for that. Mr. Gamble has long since passed away, but I am sure many a student still thinks of him when composing a letter or perhaps whenever a stapler is in sight.

Ms. Suzanne Gubanc was a force to be reckoned with. She came to class with the goal of not only teaching us about advertising but challenging our thoughts and behaviors. She encouraged questions and lively discussions among classmates all while making sure we learned to argue without personal attack. I was doing very well in her class – never missed an assignment deadline – participated in class discussions – all of it – until I wasn’t. Ms. Gubanc noticed and pulled me aside after class. I broke down. I wasn’t happy and as many college students do – I was questioning if college and the career path I had chosen was right for me. She listened to me. She didn’t pass judgement. And then she gave me praise at a time I needed it most. She encouraged me to continue in my studies and told me I was not only a good student but more than that – I would go on to do great things – that I had worth. Simply put – she gave me confidence and hope when I had neither. I am forever thankful to her. On a lighter note, one of the scariest things I have ever heard in my life came from my 7th grade math teacher. Ms. Kathy Krezel looked across the table at me after a long tutoring session, stared me in the eyes and said, “You know Jackie, life is a story problem”. The quote haunted me for years. I hated story problems and I hated math. Math seemed too black and white, and I didn’t believe there could ever possibly be just one correct answer to anything. As I have grown older, and I hope a bit wiser, I have realized what Ms. Krezel was ultimately trying to tell me was that life is worth figuring out. Some answers will be black and white while shades of gray remain in others. There probably wasn’t much gray to be seen the first time I was sent to the hallway in elementary school. I was arguing with two of my classmates and managed to rip a folder belonging to one. The shame of the hallway. I can still remember that feeling of all who walked by me knowing I was in trouble, that I had done wrong. Oh, how I hated that feeling! I was fortunate Mrs. Foth took the time to explain why I had been sent to the hallway and how my actions had

Waldorf University is blessed with a wonderful teaching staff that consistently goes above and beyond for their students. Students often state how they feel valued and known by our teaching staff. Many of the articles in this magazine highlight our Waldorf educators including current students and alumni who are or have been brilliant examples of the teaching profession. I hope you enjoy reading about them. I am sure all of you have wonderful stories to share about teachers who have influenced and guided you over the years. I encourage you to reach out to those teachers and thank them for their dedication and practice. If you would like to share stories about professors or other staff during your time at Waldorf, please contact me. I would love to share these stories with your fellow alumni. Sincerely

Jaclyn Sifert Director of Alumni Relations Waldorf University

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 Alumni Department if you have moved, changed your name or updated your email address. Contact alumni@waldorf.edu or 641.585.8148. Waldorf University, 106 South 6th Street, Forest City, IA 50436 // 641.585.2450 // 800.292.1903

4

WALDORF MAGAZINE // SPRING 2022

waldorf.edu


Earn Your M BA at Home Flexible | Affordable | Online Waldorf University’s online MBA program is designed to provide you with the training and expertise needed to gain an edge in an ever-evolving business climate. This degree focuses on the application of business research skills and behaviors necessary for you to become a successful job candidate in any business environment you choose. Have questions? The Waldorf support staff is here to help you every step of the way. Contact us to learn more about our full degree offering, tuition costs, academic planning and more.

waldorf.edu // 877.267.2157 The MBA program is not currently available for Title IV funding. For more information about our graduation rates, the median debt of students who have completed the program, and other important information, please visit our website at Waldorf.edu/Disclosure.


WALDORF AT A GLANCE

HOMECOMING 2021 recap Waldorf University students chose the theme "Here Comes the Sun: Homecoming 2021" and the theme seemed to be just what our campus needed after canceling Homecoming in 2020 due to COVID. The 16th Annual Warrior Cup competition featured student groups from Waldorf, battling it out all week in friendly competition events. Homecoming week featured 23 teams, competing in 18 events ranging from powderpuff football and giant egg hunt to improv comedy, eating competitions to even outhouse races! Homecoming Royalty Review was held Tuesday evening for students to meet and learn more about their homecoming court candidates with voting following on Wednesday and Thursday of the week. Campus-wide dress up days were held for students, staff, and faculty on campus throughout the week. Friday kicked off Homecoming for our alumni on campus with the Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony at the Boman Fine Arts Center honoring Denny Jerome ‘70. The event featured Dr. Dan Hanson ‘75 and Rev. A. David Bolstorff as speakers. Friday night concluded with a bonfire, pepfest, concert and coronation ceremony honoring this year’s King and Queen, Jack VanDusseldorp from Garner, IA and Flaca Hayleigh Solano from Tucson, AZ. Saturday morning began with a 5K Run/Walk around Forest City hosted by the Waldorf Track and Cross-Country teams followed by a pancake breakfast. The morning kicked into high gear with the start of the carnival and tailgating at 10 am near Bolstorff Field staffed by volunteers from students in the Pillars Scholarship Program. An art/ craft and vendor fair featuring many local crafters and vendors was held at the Forest City Senior Center from 10-2 pm. The Waldorf

Alumni Association Board members hosted a dunk tank fundraiser for the Eric Bartleson Alumni Scholarship and much fun was had with several volunteers being “dunked” including Waldorf University President Bob Alsop and Forest City School Superintendent, Darwin Lehman. Class reunion luncheons took place on campus with a special 50th Reunion lunch being held for the classes of 1970 & 1971. David Damm was honored as the Grand Warrior for his exemplary service to Waldorf University and the Forest City community before kickoff of the Homecoming football game vs. Dakota State. Saturday concluded with an Alumni Distinguished Service Award Ceremony at the Boman Fine Arts Center honoring the following alumni: Eunice Christensen ’57, Olga Coulton-Shaw ’99, Dr. Kris Meyer ’75 and Donald Meyer ’72. The ceremony also featured the Waldorf Schola Cantorum and Waldorf University Choir. The evening concluded with a combined performance of the Waldorf Alumni Choir and student choir. The Waldorf Theatre Department also presented “And Then There Were None” by Agatha Christie over the weekend. Sunday began with a service at Immanuel Lutheran Church, followed by brunch in the dining hall. The weekend concluded with an instrumental concert featuring the Waldorf University Wind Symphony, Percussion Ensemble and Jazz Ensemble at the Boman Fine Arts Center in the afternoon. Mark your calendar now for next year's festivities: Oct. 21-23, 2022! Waldorf Homecoming is always one of the best weekends of the entire year!

50th Class Reunions

Class of 1970: Left to Right: Front Row: Vicky (Pedersen) Tarris, Cathy "Crash" Wensinger, Alice (Weisz) Hodgson. Second Row: Tim Tarris, Paul Kalkwarf, Denny Jerome, George Quast. Third Row: Phil Holtan, Mike Hodgson, John Holland

6

WALDORF MAGAZINE // SPRING 2022

Class of 1971: Left to Right: Front Row: Sharon (Langlie) Sorenson, Carolyn (Klima) Enstad, Jody (Klinge) Wooge, Sonja (Fox) Chesnik. Second Row: Susan (Moen) Bubolz, Judy (Rude) Hacker, Tammi (Shelton) Anderson, Miriam (Linder) Morrison, Cathy "Crash" Wensinger. Third Row: Stan Weltzin, David Pedersen, Brice Miller, Dan Ensrude. Fourth Row: Ole Skaar Jr., George Quast, Jim Chesnik, Tom Winch

waldorf.edu


Class of 1955: Carol (Peterson) Edwards

Class of 1956: Twyla (Koop) Hall

Class of 1960: Richard Sansgaard, Rolfe Johnstad

Class of 1961: Karen (Weum) Meyering, Janora (Gustafson) Hodges, Kathy (Jacobson) Nase, Karen (Hanna) Dyer

Class of 1962: Nancy (Ihle) Neilsen

Class of 1972: Don Meyer

Class of 1975: Front Row L to R: Julie (Gau) Jolivette, Deb Eldredge, Evelyn (Peterson) Holmstrom, Kris (Myhrwold) Meyer. Back Row L to R: Dennis Litterer, Murray McKee, Arla (Proehl) Kintigh, Cathy (Kammin) Braathun, Rhoda Ulring

Class of 1976: Pat (Cooper) Lovik, Susan (Rinden) Stauffer, Joan Blockhus-Morgan, Connie (Burgardt) Hildebrandt

Class of 1980: Monica (Osnes) Amstutz, Chad Kammin

Class of 1981: Mark Miller, Kim (Huck) Miller, Lynn (Jensvold) Beenken, Lizabeth Osnes, Madonna (Jensen) Jaeger

waldorf.edu

Class of 1982: Naomi (Luttio) St. John

Class of 1991: Janet Zarich, Mallette Parry

SPRING 2022 // WALDORF MAGAZINE

7


CAMPUS NEWS

tanner Hall remodel North Tanner bathrooms and dorm rooms were remodeled over the summer and the process continues this spring with the remodeling of South Tanner.

ERIC J. BARTLESON ALUMNI SCHOLARSHIP We are excited to share with you the Eric J Bartleson Alumni Scholarship. This scholarship enables you, our alumni, to give directly to a current Waldorf student in their junior or senior year who needs financial assistance to continue their Waldorf education. The scholarship was named after Dr. Eric J. Bartleson '64, a former alumni board member, who passed away in 2020. Eric’s love and dedication to Waldorf was apparent both as a student and an alum. Eric realized that Waldorf was not only a place of academia but also a place of self-growth. Eric held the belief, as our other board members do, that Waldorf alumni is a family that supports each other. Our goal is to endow this scholarship by raising $25,000. Visit the Waldorf Lutheran College Foundation website at waldorffoundation.org to donate or you may mail a check to: Waldorf Lutheran College Foundation 106 South 6th Street Forest City, IA 50436 Your donation is tax deductible.

8

WALDORF MAGAZINE // SPRING 2022

waldorf.edu


CAMPUS NEWS

ballroom update

Fieldhouse update

The ballroom recieved new carpet over winter break.

The fieldhouse recieved new window decals that depict our Warrior Pride and each of Waldorf's sports teams.

football locker room update New wall art was added in the football locker rooms.

HOW CAN YOU

registrar office Moves The Registrar Office moved from Salveson to Voss Hall.

get involved ?

Do you have a passion or skill that you would be willing to share on campus? Are you looking to continue your education with a certificate or degree that Waldorf doesn't have? Are you interested in becoming a mentor for a student in your field/industry? Is your business looking to hire interns/recent graduates? Have you ever considered serving on the Alumni Board of Directors? Do you or a classmate have a story that would inspire? We would love to hear from you! All of these (and more!) are ways to get involved with your alma mater. Please don't hesitate to reach out to alumni@waldorf.edu if any of these apply to you. Thank you for your continued support of Waldorf University and the Waldorf Lutheran College Foundation. We appreciate everything you do for Waldorf University!

waldorf.edu

SPRING 2022 // WALDORF MAGAZINE

9


CAMPUS NEWS

Student Profile

KATIE CHAPMAN ’21—WHY WALDORF?

W

aldorf University was a top choice for me ever since I started my college journey at North Iowa Area Community College. I grew up in a medium sized town called Cresco, Iowa. I graduated from Crestwood High School. I lived with my father Harold, my mother Julie, and my older sister Jessica. Both my mom and dad as well as my sister went to college and got degrees so I knew that was something I wanted to push for as well. Out of high school I was not sure what degree path I wanted to pursue and I also knew I wanted to continue my athletic journey of playing softball so I chose North Iowa Area Community College to start at. Once my community college journey was coming to an end it was time for me to finalize what degree I wanted to chase and where I would like to do that at. I chose to pursue Elementary Education. Waldorf was a top choice for me for a very long time and I knew Waldorf had an amazing Education program. I first talked to the softball coach, Lexy Determan and she was very welcoming to the college campus and

10

WALDORF MAGAZINE // SPRING 2022

made it feel like home for me. Once I had my first visit I decided Waldorf was the place for me. I am so thankful for many things at Waldorf and at the top of the list are the professors and coaches. Every professor that I encountered was very helpful. Waldorf has the best of the best faculty hands down. Waldorf gives you the opportunity to get to know your professors on a deep level because of the smaller class sizes as well as they push you to be your very best. My advisor was so wonderful to work with as well and I never had a doubt that she was going to do the best for me. On the softball side of Waldorf, I couldn’t have asked for better coaches. Waldorf’s coaches care much more than wins and losses. They care about the growth of each athlete and they want the best from each athlete. One thing that I will forever remember and it exemplifies how amazing Waldorf is, was my softball team made it to the championship day at the conference tournament in softball and that meant us

seniors were going to miss graduation. So our president was so kind and held a mini ceremony for us the next day. That truly shows how community-like Waldorf is. One of my favorite memories from Waldorf was being awarded the Champion of Character for the 2020 season and 2021 season. I also was awarded the Lions Club Sportsmanship award. The reason those are just a few of my favorite memories is because I owe it all to my coaches, professors, and teammates for making me a better person. I feel as if I can proudly walk away from Waldorf saying I am a better person. I just recently graduated in December of 2021 with an Elementary Education degree and endorsements in reading and coaching. I am currently in the process of finding a job and feel very confident that once I do, I will have success because Waldorf prepared me for it. Waldorf will forever be a huge stepping stone in my life and I will always call it home.

waldorf.edu


CAMPUS NEWS

O

ur community has long celebrated the holiday season with the Waldorf music ensembles the first weekend in December just as colleges around the region have done for 100+ years. This past year, Dr. Emilie Bertram and Cory Schmitt captured the hearts of our students and community with a program entitled, “Out of Darkness”. Choral favorites such as "Lux Aurumque" by Eric Whitacre, "O Magnum Mysterium" by Morten Lauridsen, and "This Little Light of Mine" arranged by Moses Hogan, create a soundscape that illustrates emergence. The Waldorf University Wind Symphony presented "Gaudete", (Latin for Rejoice), arranged by Brian Beck, for rejoicing with us during this reverent time, the birth of Jesus. A tuneful prayer of this birth followed in Percy Grainger's arrangement of "The Sussex Mummers Christmas Carol". Community musicians helped fill out the large texture demanded for this megawork, "Russian Christmas Music", by Alfred Reed. Community musicians also contributed to choral selections that punctuated the darkness with moments of celebration to include "Hark! the Herald Angels Sing" by Dan Forrest and "I Saw Three Ships" arranged by John Frederick Hudson. The spectacular was welcomed by many with brass ringing from the orchestra pit alongside Immanuel Lutheran Church Bell Choir while the Waldorf Choir decorated the stage in their beautiful purple velvet robes. The Waldorf Art faculty, Keely McLain, and students’ works of art inspired by the musical selection of the program were cast on the walls of the Boman throughout the program thanks to Dan May, Director of the Boman Fine Arts Center, and featured in the Art Gallery in the lobby as well. Lest we not forget the great blessings of Nancy Farndale, Composer in Residence, as she created original compositions for our choir. And finally, the experience will never be as rich as it is when accompanied by our very own, Melissa (Hagen) Phillips. Her sensitivity, technical brilliance, humility and passion are incomparable. This year she shared the piano bench with piano performance student, Riley Walton, for a 4-hand accompaniment of an incredible piece programmed with brass and choir by Dr. Bertram. A challenge well met by all.

waldorf.edu

As times continue to propel us into change, our celebration through music will remain a cornerstone to who we are at Waldorf University. The innovation of the department and students can be witnessed in highlights such as the pre-show features by the Waldorf Jazz Ensemble, Brass Quintet, Guitar Sextet and student duets. We have been given an opportunity to reflect on what our music ensembles give to the community - a community made up of campus, local residents, families and alumni. We, as a department, have embraced a mission to be more intentional about the function of our performances for teaching, entertaining, and inspiring lifelong arts contributors. It is evident traditions cannot merely exist on a calendar, but rather be maintained in concept and message. Therefore, reimagine with me, a series of performances that serve the students, campus, community, alumni, and future with respect to a legacy of quality and innovation. Respond to the call and join us in our mission: contribute your talents - sponsor a performance raise awareness of the arts in your community - donate or volunteer! Finally, Receive our “Gift of Music” as we present to you a concert aimed at celebrating what you, the alumni, local community, area music teachers, and families have provided for us in the way of opportunity. Have someone you would like us to celebrate in this “Gift of Music”? Send your recommendation to music@waldorf.edu. Sincerely,

Melanie Harms Espeland, Ph.D Department Chair & Associate Professor of Music

SPRING 2022 // WALDORF MAGAZINE

11


CAMPUS NEWS

ATHLETICS RECAP

FOOTBALL

MaCoy Yeakel Jordan Cooper

James Jackson, Jr.

Dominick Watt

Warriors looking to close the gap

Head Coach Will Finley’s squad turned in a fantastic season in 2021, finishing 7-3 overall and posting its first 6-1 start since becoming a four-year program in 2003. The Warriors began their season with a 30-3 win over Briar Cliff on Community Night at Bolstorff Field, then hit the road to earn their first win over Saint Ambrose in program history, 24-17.

Gifford and wide receiver/punter Zach Morel were selected to and played in the 2021 NAIA Senior Football Classic in Durham, North Carolina on December 17, the eve of the NAIA National Championship Game. Coach Finley and assistant coach Tyler Chapa were each chosen to serve as assistant coaches in the game. Boasting a recruiting class that stands at 29 new players as of February’s National Signing Day, the Warriors will look to close the gap on top NSAA competition in 2022.

Waldorf won four straight games across the middle of its season, including a

12

WALDORF MAGAZINE // SPRING 2022

On the women’s side, their 4 x 400 meter relay team has enjoyed success at several competitions. The squad, consisting of Emily Ryerson, Catherine Clark-Ashford, Cecelia Hemsworth, and Alana Wickering hopes to continue competing at postseason events. VOLLEYBALL

Best program in over a decade

The Waldorf Volleyball Team saw its best start as a program in over a decade. 2021 marked the first time in the past since 2007 that a Waldorf team registered wins in at least seven of its first 12 matches. The team also made program history when it earned its first-ever win at Mayville State stretching back to their first trip to Mayville in 2011. Outside hitter Kenzie Kidd was named to the NSAA AllConference Second Team. The sophomore recorded 3.21 kills per set and set an individual match record of 29 kills in one game. In addition to the allconference teams, the NSAA

The Warriors posted an 11-16 overall record in 2021, which marked a seven-win improvement over the prior season. WOMEN'S SOCCER

Boyd scores a team-leading six goals in ten matches

Alysha Donovan

New Track and Field Head Coach Joel Popenfoose has the Warriors headed in the right direction as the programs continue to build and rejuvenate through the winter and into the spring. Thrower Wade Baker continues to have a remarkable year, setting a new school record in the weight throw on multiple occasions and qualifying for the NAIA’s national event.

also bestows NAIA Champions of Character honors upon one player per conference team. Junior middle blocker Abygail Wood earned the Champions of Character recognition for the second consecutive season.

Sydney Boyd

Watt, Yeakel, and senior defensive back James Jackson, Jr. were all named to the 2021 NSAA All-Conference First Team. The Warriors placed six players on the NSAA All-Conference Second Team: running back Jatoviay Hill, offensive lineman Kade Kloster-Hodak, tight end PJ Patterson defensive lineman Deqwunn McCobb, and senior placekicker Slater Gifford.

Headed in the right diection

Kenzie Kidd

The Waldorf Warrior athletic teams set out to excel in the 2021-22 academic year. All 22 Waldorf sports have either begun or completed their seasons, with numerous individual and team achievements to celebrate along the way.

Quarterback Jordan Cooper earned North Star Athletic Association Offensive Player of the Week twice. Wide receiver Dominick Watt earned the same honor after posting a program record 218 receiving yards on just four receptions, three of which went for touchdowns in Waldorf’s epic 52-51 win at Mayville State. Safety MaCoy Yeakel earned Defensive Player of the Week after intercepting two passes and recovering a fumble in the win at Saint Ambrose.

CROSS COUNTRY/TRACK & FIELD

Abygail Wood

two-game sweep of Mayville State and a thrilling 26-21 win over Dakota State on Homecoming Weekend.

The Waldorf Women’s Soccer Team came up one goal short of a postseason berth in the 2021 season, winning five matches along the way without allowing a goal in any of the wins. After beating Iowa Wesleyan at Bolstorff Field on September 29, the Continental Athletic Conference scheduled a rematch which served as a de facto playoff game for both teams, with the winner advancing to the 2021 CAC Tournament in Lawrenceville, Georgia. The game, played at Iowa Wesleyan, ended in a 2-1 defeat. The Warriors then rebounded with their best performance of the year in an 8-0 win at Bacone. Forward Sydney Boyd was named to the CAC AllConference Second Team. Boyd scored a team-leading six goals in ten matches played for the Warriors. Her 14 points were also a team best. Boyd scored a pair of game-winning goals, at Mount Marty on August 28 and at Bacone on November 2. Goalkeeper Sara Rodriguez earned honorable mention from the CAC. The senior waldorf.edu


CAMPUS NEWS

ATHLETICS RECAP

Henrique Vieira

Daniel Burko

The Men’s Soccer Team enjoyed a very competitive season, finishing .500 at 6-6-2 and playing some of its best soccer against top competition. The Warriors earned a victory against a nationally-ranked opponent when it bested No. 21 Briar Cliff at Bolstorff Field on August 31. Daniel Burko, Daniel Pinkney, and Mordecai Nsabaah all scored for Waldorf in the memorable win, while goalkeeper Josh Bonaiti made four stops. The Warriors also played to a scoreless draw with regional powerhouse Northwestern, who was receiving votes in the NAIA poll the week of the September 15 game. Bonaiti made 11 saves to keep the Raiders off the board. Striker Daniel Pinkney set a program record with 15 goals in 2021, including three game winners and one scored on

The Waldof Men’s and Women’s Golf teams saw success on the links this past fall, and eagerly await the opportunity to get back out on the course in the spring. Few incoming freshmen made a better debut than women’s golfer Amanda Karvala, who won the individual title at the Luther Invitational at Oneota Golf & Country Club (5,625-yards, par72) in Decorah, leading Waldorf to a team title for the first time since March 26, 2019. For her efforts, Karvala was named NSAA Women’s Golfer of the Week. Waldorf’s women also took first place in the Waldorf Invitational in Albert Lea on September 26, besting four other area schools. The men’s team turned in its best team effort at the Simpson Invitational on September 22, when it finished second among 11 competing schools. Thomas Houdayer of Evereux, France earned NSAA Men’s Golfer of the Week for his performance at the Grand View Invitational

BOWLING

BASKETBALL

Teams have incredible season

The Waldorf Men’s and Women’s Bowling Teams wrapped up incredible seasons when they competed in the historic Hoosier Classic at the venerable Western Bowl in Indianapolis on February 18. The women’s season included top ten team finishes when they placed fifth at the Cedar Valley Invitational on October 9 and a sixth-place finish in the Bronco Bash in Hastings, Nebraska on January 29. Marissa Gates set a Waldorf program record when she bowled a 275 in one of her games at the annual Kohawk Invitational in Cedar Rapids on February 5. The men’s squad very nearly won a tournament championship when it placed second in the Bronco Bash on January 29. Harry Weigle was the top men's finisher, placing first among 88 male competitors. Weigle started slow, rolling a 212 and a 191 in his first two strings. From there, the junior hit another gear as he rolled a 236, 225, and 235 respectively across his last three efforts. His cumulative

Tina Lair-VanMeter

Two NSAA players of the week named

Quincy Minor Jr.

Thomas Houdayer

Pinkney sets program record with 15 goals

Karvala named NSAA Women's Golfer of the Week

Amanda Karvala

MEN'S SOCCER

GOLF

Senior Tyler Harlow made an impressive comeback from arm surgery which kept him sidelined for most of the season. In the 2022 Kohawk Invitational, he rolled the full five strings, including a high of 269 to claim a 13th place finish among a field of 187 male bowlers.

The men’s and women’s team joined forces to post a 67-60 victory over Iowa Wesleyan in the annual coeducational Purple Cup hosted by Waldorf at Forest City’s Bear Creek Golf Course on September 25.

Harry Weigle

Senior Alysha Donovan finished her Waldorf career in style, being named CAC Offensive Player of the Week for the final week of the season. Donovan tallied five points with two goals and one assist in an 8-0 victory at Bacone, two of her three shots in the match found the back of the net.

average of 219.8 pins was good for the individual title.

in Ankeny on October 18-19, shooting a 76 and 77, respectively.

Marissa Gates

a penalty kick. Pinkney was named to the Continental Athletic Conference’s AllConference Second Team. He was also named CAC Offensive Player of the Week after a three-goal performance in a win over Iowa Wesleyan on September 29. Daniel Burko and defenseman Henrique Vieira each earned honorable mention from the CAC.

netminder started 11 matches for the Warriors and made 76 stops en route to four victories in net, all of which were shutouts. Defender Adrianna Vargas and midfielder Araneg Leon Velazquez also earned CAC honorable mentions.

The Waldorf Men’s and Women’s Basketball Teams wrapped up their seasons in late February. Warrior great Quincy Minor, Jr. finished his four-year Waldorf career in grand fashion, earning his second career North Star Athletic Association Player of the Week award on November 8. He scored 13 points and dished out eight assists in an 89-72 defeat to host-team Concordia (Neb.). He followed up with 26 points on his 9-of-15 field goals and contributed five assists in 89-82 victory over Hastings (Neb.). Both Minor and teammate Lorenzo Smith scored their respective 1,000th career points on the same night, Monday, December 13 at William Woods. Minor became the fifth Warrior player in four-year program history to reach the 1,000 point milestone. Smith scored the majority of his current career points, 592, in two seasons at Dakota County Technical College. Since joining the Warriors for the 2020-21 season, he has ATHLETICS continued pg 14

waldorf.edu Athletics Articles by JOHN CABRAL

SPRING 2022 // WALDORF MAGAZINE

13


CAMPUS NEWS ATHLETICS continued

Forward Tina Lair-VanMeter earned NSAA Women's Basketball Player of the Week for the second time in her Waldorf career on November 29. LairVanMeter finished her collegiate career with over 1,500 cumulative points and 1,000 cumulative rebounds including her seasons at Southwestern Community College. Lair-VanMeter also surpassed the 1,000 point mark in Waldorf program history. WRESTLING

Building toward a lofty future The Waldorf Men’s and Women’s Wrestling Teams continue to grow, develop, and build toward their lofty future

Men’s wrestling hosted a first of its kind event on January 26 as they welcomed in Waldorf alumnus Bo Bettinson '15 and his Saint Ambrose Bees for the inaugural "Battle at the Boman" held at the Boman Fine Arts Center. The dual marked the first time the Warrior wrestling program has hosted a competition outside of a conventional gymnasium setting. The event generated tremendous interest on campus and in the community and was attended by an estimated 400 fans.

The Women’s team hosted a major event when Waldorf put on its annual University Open event on Nov. 13, attended by numerous schools throughout the Midwest. The Warriors got strong performances throughout the season from grapplers such as Bernice spino, Ku’uipo Chan, Jenny Jiminez, Destiny Dominguez, and Diana Dzasezeva HOCKEY

Woodward makes 38 saves for Warrior victory

Tyler Nelson

The women’s team got off to its best start since 2013, winning five of its first nine games, including its first four-game winning streak since the 2012-13 season.

championship goals. The men’s team took an important step in its season opener on Nov. 2, when Head Coach Ryan Dickinson guided his squad to the Warriors' first dual meet victory since beating William Penn, 24-21, on November 15, 2017. Waldorf's win marked its first in program history against Graceland, and its first league win since becoming a member of the Heart of America Conference.

Branden Woodward

emerged as a primary offensive option.

The Waldorf Hockey Team finished an up and down season in grand fashion on Senior Night at Albert Lea City Arena on February 5 when it defeated Midwest

College Hockey rival Midland in a 4-3 overtime thriller. In his final career home game, goalie Branden Woodward made 38 saves for the Warriors to guide them to victory. Fellow senior Tristan Klewsaat had two assists in the game, and Tyler Nelson sent the fans home happy with the game-winner 39 seconds into overtime. The Warriors played one of the toughest schedules in the country, having played 13 games against ACHA Division 1 Top 25 opponents. Waldorf claimed two wins over ranked opponents, including a 6-1 win over No. 23 Illinois State in Albert Lea. The Warriors played both the biggest and the best, opening its season with trips to f ace the No. 6 Iowa State Cyclones and No. 24 Oklahoma Sooners.

ALUMNI CHAPTERS

CONNECT WITH ALUMNI IN YOUR AREA!

ALUMNI

Interested in connecting with Warriors around the world? Take the leap, and start a Waldorf Alumni Chapter near you! It might not always be easy to come back to campus during the year, but we don't want that to stop you from continuing to build relationships with your fellow Waldorf friends and alumni. Waldorf Alumni Chapters are meant to provide a fun, welcoming and inclusive environment to help bring together alumni,

14

WALDORF MAGAZINE // SPRING 2022

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 location or by special interest (small business owners, choir, football, major/minor, etc.), and are an awesome way to engage, network and reminisce with fellow Warriors all year round!

we are hoping alumni take advantage of the opportunity to reconnect with former classmates and friends from Waldorf, while building and forming new relationships as well, that all have at least one wonderful thing in common: we all have a home in the Warrior family. Interested in getting involved with or helping to start a chapter? Reach out to alumni@waldorf.edu today!

Through various events and activities (Think: sporting events, casual get-togethers, potlucks, etc.) throughout the year,

waldorf.edu


(L to R) Stacey Hunter-Schwartz, Jessica Jones, Allison Vickrey-Kao, Kaitlyn Monck '18, and Emily Berger

ALUMNI NEWS

alumni profile

KAITLYN MONCK '18

W

hen looking for a place to start my future, Waldorf University was a shining star among many places. I knew that I wanted to attend somewhere that allowed me to focus on academics, athletics, and giving back to the community - whether that be through campus ministry or varying community service projects. My career at Waldorf challenged me in ways that I was not expecting and transformed my thought processes. It really was my time in the history department that truly transformed what I wanted my future to look like. I no longer was concerned with choosing a career strictly based on income, but rather, I wanted to be able to work with those under-served and misunderstood. Professor Kevin Mason had a way of highlighting the reality that history is often told by the people who profited from it most, and that led me to do research and seek opportunities to serve those that are often not heard. After graduating from Waldorf I moved across the country to Sacramento and began working as a legal secretary at a law firm. While this was a good career choice for me in my pursuit toward law school, it was not fulfilling the piece of me that want-

waldorf.edu

ed to serve people. Amidst the pandemic in October of 2020, I applied for a position with a Sacramento local non-profit organization - Women’s Empowerment. After three years of working as a legal secretary for a firm that handled landlord-tenant law, I found myself wanting to advocate for the unhoused during a time where housing was and currently still is, something that is lacking in the greater Sacramento area and across the United States.

1,700 women who have walked through the doors of Women’s Empowerment. Additionally, I have begun working with my law schools Homeless Advocacy Clinic, where I provide pro-bono legal services to the unhoused community in Sacramento. Here we are able to provide expungement assistance, work to apply for welfare and social security benefits, and seek proper advocacy to those that normally do not have access to these resources.

Our non-profit, Women’s Empowerment, is a job-readiness program that works with women and children that are experiencing homelessness. It is our agency's goal to educate and empower these women who are experiencing homelessness with the skills and the confidence necessary to get a job, maintain a healthy lifestyle, and regain a home for themselves and their children. We do eight-week sessions, and the photo above was for the start of the 85th session at Women's Empowerment.

All thanks to Waldorf University opening my eyes to the world around me, I have been able to see a system that lacks both the knowledge and the resources necessary to address needs of women and children that are experiencing homelessness, and the depths of the issues surrounding their circumstances. I have been able to get involved and work with an agency that is making change in the Greater Sacramento area. If people are interested in learning more about our agency or how they can help, please visit our website: https://womens-empowerment.org/.

Currently I work as the agency's Housing Specialist. In this role I am responsible for providing housing education, financial education, and housing advocacy for the over

SPRING 2022 // WALDORF MAGAZINE

15


ALUMNI NEWS

alumni profile

Graduate Degree

Kevin and his wife, Vicki, at an annual family picnic.

KEVIN MCGEE '21

I

grew up a Navy brat in the Pacific Northwest with two brothers and a sister. We often relocated from port to port wondering when my submarine officer dad would come through the door. I've seen Bangor, Key West, Pearl Harbor, and San Diego. My parents settled in sunny San Diego when he was discharged. My father went from submarines to teaching Acoustical Engineering at the University of California Los Angeles. Today I am a retired ironworker living a few miles east of San Diego proper. After high school, I served as a missionary in the South Pacific islands of French Polynesia learning the Tahitian and French languages and learning to slow to the beat of island culture. "Haere Maru" means "Go Slow". Today, when I recognize that I am getting ahead of myself, I pause and can reach back to the shores of Bora Bora to slow each moment.

16

WALDORF MAGAZINE // SPRING 2022

After my mission, I married and started a family. After our third child, we decided to move back to Seattle to be closer to family roots. While working as an ironworker I began teaching in our apprenticeship program and volunteering in our local deaf community as an interpreter. I was afforded the opportunity to serve as the volunteer Director of a deaf/blind organization in the Seattle area. We still volunteer in the community today. Volunteer work provides deep personal enrichment and nourishment to the soul. While teaching in the Northwest, I was blessed to attend the University of Washington, the University of San Diego, and subsequently taught Labor History at Bates College. Our family grew from three to eight and when the last few kids flew the coop, we moved back to San Diego and snuggled into our home here. My wife and I are blessed with eight children who are now scattered across the planet from San

Diego, Seattle, and Germany to China. Our question to each of our children was always "What school do you want to go to when you graduate from high school?", not "Do you want to go to school after you graduate?" I am happy to say that today, five of our eight children are pursuing advanced degrees. My educational journey accelerated in San Diego with a Master's in Occupational Safety and Health and a Master's in Business Administration/Project Management; both from Columbia Southern University. My second master’s from Columbia Southern was an emotional experience. The emotion came from a required humble admission that I was not very good at business. My father used to say that life is a series of ladders that once we climb one, we will find another waiting. He also warned to beware of plateaus; plateaus mean your growth has stopped.

waldorf.edu


ALUMNI NEWS We started our small business in 2015. We are a consulting firm, providing insight and advice to businesses regarding safety compliance. Documents, operating procedures, and training are at the core of our operations. I turned to Waldorf because I realized that we are really in the business of organizational change. I needed to know more about the mechanics of organizational development. Waldorf provided this expertise. My wife and I are both lifelong learners. She is successfully pursuing advanced studies in Health Science Information systems. She is passionate about her family and sincere in her convictions. She is my rock. When I decided to enhance my ability to enable change in our business client's systems, her advice to me was to "do what you always do." I chose Waldorf because I am an educator in commercial settings. I train for safety, survival, and production. My master’s in Occupational Safety and Health was not enough for my old ironworker self, so I earned an MBA. This was a smart choice. I lacked business skills. Then I learned about Waldorf’s programs and jumped at the chance to enhance my skills in helping our clients bring their organizations into a better balance between safety and production.

Organizational Leadership and Change is our business motto, hence my selection to Waldorf University. I chose Waldorf for its reputation of excellence in academics and quality in delivery. Waldorf reinforces my commitment to service and perseverance. I am proud to be a Waldorf Warrior on my journey into a deeper understanding of educational systems mechanics. There are three takeaways I would share with you. One, online learning is rich and vibrant. Technology today can often reach deeper than an actual classroom. The working mom, busy professional, or distant learner can pursue educational goals and dreams in a virtual classroom. Two, weekly discussions with classmates online provides networking opportunities. All of us see life through a different lens. As an online student with Waldorf, I gained new insights and perspectives looking through the lenses of my classmates. Third, the Waldorf staff are experts. My mentor, and personal Guru, Dr. Larry Hill, filled our discussions and personal communications with unbridled energy. His support and positive outlook inspired me to reach deeper and look harder at an issue when analyzing a process or theory. I think he imparted his Waldorf spirit in his guidance. I carry this with me. We still communicate today.

I am a member of the American Society of Safety Professionals, the Risk Management Society, and the American National Standards Institute. These associations are precious food for our productive aspirations as a small business. Our activities live in the family, camping, fishing, education currency, music, sports, and hugs from our twelve grandchildren. I like fishing when I catch more fish than my wife, but that is yet to happen. We love evening sunsets and unexpected fauna. We maintain a cabin near Julian, Calif. where an abundant population of deer and turkeys roam. Did you know that turkeys can fly and they nest in trees? I enjoy working in the kitchen without measurements, my wife disagrees; she says she likes to follow all the rules; I respond with a "no rules in the kitchen" attitude. I believe in the construct of a dignified neighborhood and depend on order and decency in my daily social life. I am a Bishop in our church who anchors passion to conviction. My passion for service is immovable. The joy and satisfaction that comes from personal sacrifice on behalf of others returns rich blessings. This return makes me feel occasionally guilty because I seem to get more than I give. My favorite weird hobby is research. I enjoy knowing as much as I can. I believe firmly that there are only two things you get to take with you when you die, what you have learned, and your relationships with others; make the best of yourself today brings a pretty good tomorrow. This life is not all there is.

The McGee children plus a nephew in 1995

It is always a fabulous day to be a Waldorf Warrior. Depend on your convictions to anchor your passions. Trust your professors. If you take the time to manage your affairs you can enjoy Lux et Veritas the way I have. If I can manage a marriage, eight children, work, and school, so can you! If you have been debating on enrolling for your advanced degree through one of Waldorf’s graduate programs, I highly encourage you to do so. I am thankful I did as it has allowed me to improve my business practice and chart a doctoral candidacy at Walden University as I continue my lifelong learning. I am proud to say I am part of the Waldorf Warrior family.

waldorf.edu

SPRING 2022 // WALDORF MAGAZINE

17


ALUMNI NEWS

Learning, Living and Serving

Until the Final Curtain is Drawn

PHOTOS COURTESY OF DIANA KOPPEN WRITTEN BY PAM DOOCY-CURRY FROM THE PERSPECTIVE OF DIANA KOPPEN

B

oth my aunt Marion Helland '46 and my mother Gladys (Helland) Doocy '56 walked those halls of Waldorf University for the first time in 1944 and 1954 respectively, in search of knowledge and direction on how they could make their imprints on society. Born to Norwegian immigrants, Marion and Gladys learned how to celebrate people’s differences and advocate for those who were seen as outsiders. Moreover, each woman headed to Waldorf, possessing the thirst for knowledge and the desire to spread this knowledge to future generations. Both wore the same Waldorf letters, brought out the best in those around them, and went on to lead admirable lives; however, their paths were quite different. In 1944, in the midst of World War II, Marion entered her college years with more questions than answers. She was desperately seeking direction in a world inundated with warped perspectives, which she so adequately described in her high school valedictorian speech just months

prior: “As a twisted twig sometimes develops into the bent tree spoiling the symmetry of the forest, so sometimes a twisted idea finds root in the mind of man and develops a personality which spoils the beauty of man’s dreams.” No human could have all the answers for Marion’s worldly concerns, but Waldorf equipped her with the tools for discovery as well as a forum for discussion. During Marion’s years at Waldorf, enrollment was low due to WWII, and the student body consisted primarily of women since most men were serving in the armed forces. While the Waldorf students of today faced empty toilet paper shelves and on-line instruction during the global COVID-19 pandemic, Marion’s college years were plagued by a world war and rationing of food, shoes, tires, and gasoline, and the cars around town were tagged with the stickers “Is this trip necessary?” Waldorf is no stranger to hard times, and the students grow all the more resilient and equipped for the world because of it.

Marion attributed her desire to serve as an activist in the Civil Rights Movement to her years at Waldorf: "My most vivid memory of Waldorf was Dr. Jacob Tanner, a dynamic teacher of religion and a vigorous presence on campus. With his unique teaching style of religion and the Bible, he also offered helpful hints about keeping healthy. I don’t remember if Waldorf had the “Learn, Live, & Serve” motto back then, but I do know that was the message I received from Dr. Tanner. He insisted that we underline passages in our Bibles as he presented his lessons. The underlining has faded a bit but is still clear enough to follow what Dr. Tanner was emphasizing. “If God be for us, who can be against us?” (Romans 8:31) That was a meaningful underlining for life and certainly for the civil rights/human rights journey, which was a spiritual as well as a political movement." By becoming an elementary school teacher, Marion found her avenue for pursuing

PHOTOS pg. 18 (L to R): Roommates Ilah (Brumm) Johnson and Marion wearing the Waldorf letter in 1944, Gladys proudly wearing the Waldorf College logo in 1954

18

WALDORF MAGAZINE // SPRING 2022

waldorf.edu


ALUMNI NEWS

equality by opening her students’ eyes to the discrimination that permeated the world around them. Her lessons about the reality of racism and the need for critical analysis worked to change the one-sided narrative of segregation. In 1965, Marion responded to an ad “Teachers WANTED to Teach FREEDOM” and migrated down to the segregated American South. There she began her lifelong commitment to social justice. In her lifetime, Marion bore witness to the endless atrocities that stained our nation’s collective consciousness, and she worked with other visionaries to inspire our march towards a brighter, more equitable future. In 1954, Marion’s younger sister Gladys followed in her sister’s steps and joined the Waldorf community, with a vision to combine her strong Norwegian Lutheran Church upbringing with her passion for teaching. Waldorf promised to bridge this gap by immersing Gladys in its mission: “to educate the whole person emphasizing integrity and equipping students to succeed and to serve the communities where they live and work.” Gladys’ Waldorf days were filled with impactful lessons, friendships, and mentorships, cementing her desire to educate the youth while arming her with the skills to do so. Shortly after graduating in 1956, Gladys accepted her first teaching job in Titonka, Iowa. Gladys was no stranger to small towns but was quite anxious about leaving her Waldorf support system and moving to a town just shy of 600 people. However, Gladys employed the teaching strategies she learned at Waldorf, and she devoted herself to caring for her students

and encouraging them to live honest, community-serving lives. Halfway through Gladys’ second week in Titonka, she met George Doocy, and three years later, George and Gladys married. Soon after, a baby on the way marked Gladys’ divergence from Marion’s path. After the birth of Gladys and George’s first daughter, the couple relocated to Spirit Lake, Iowa, to start a business. Gladys ended that school year in a longterm substitute position and planned on returning to teaching full time, but each time the school district offered Gladys a full-time position, another baby was on the way. Therefore, Gladys substitute taught on a regular basis for five decades, continuing to educate herself as the teaching world evolved, while she simultaneously raised their five daughters, maintained their household, and supported their family business. On her 70th birthday, a bouquet of flowers arrived at Spirit Lake Elementary School, signifying Gladys’ last official year of teaching. However, the impact she had on her students continued as she supported them in sporting events and activities within the community. In 2015, the two sisters stepped foot on the Waldorf campus one last time in honor of Marion receiving the “Alumni Distinguished Service Award.” Her acceptance speech marked the first time Marion was truly nervous about public speaking because she wanted to find the perfect words to address both her sister and her alma mater. Even though my aunt Marion was the sister receiving the award that night, when

I praised Marion for all her heroic actions and the widespread impact she has had on society, Marion insisted, “I admire your mother so much more. She has not only helped mold the minds of impressionable youth for over fifty years as an educator but also has passed on her fine qualities to five daughters who are now in the world serving as well. That speaks volumes for the impact your mother has had on so many lives. That is the vision of a true hero.” Although Marion also married, she knew she could not balance motherhood with her human rights mission, so she served as a role model to all she encountered. Though Gladys’ and Marion’s paths varied, both women spent their days “learning, living, and serving.” In conjunction with my niece’s "Walk a Mile in My Shoes" campaign and the publishing of Marion’s memoir "Breaking Free from Rigid Boxes, From the Outside Looking In", I walked Waldorf campus, looking within the faces of the new generation of Waldorf students for that glimmer of hope and promise captured in the old photos of the women I loved. Did they too come to Waldorf in search of life’s answers, their hearts filled with dreams of a future where they impact others? In Marion’s valedictorian speech, she vowed, “that it has always been man’s greatest ambition to leave a better world behind when the final curtain is drawn.” These two Waldorf graduates wore their letters proudly and conquered this selfless endeavor… and for this one day on the Waldorf campus, I got a glimpse at their journeys.

PHOTOS pg. 19 (L to R): LeAnna Swalley (Ilah's daughter) and Diana Koppen (Marion's niece) outside dorm room 534 where Marion and Ilah lived in Salveson, Sarah Beiting, WU Library Director, recieves a copy of the book "Breaking Free, et. al." from Diana Koppen, Marion and Gladys at Waldorf in 2015.

waldorf.edu

SPRING 2022 // WALDORF MAGAZINE

19


ALUMNI NEWS

Alumni Distinguished Service Awards: 2021 Recipients The Alumni Distinguished Service Award recognizes Waldorf alumni who have performed distinctive and meritorious service in areas such as public affairs, education, church, business, and government. They have demonstrated their Christian faith in service to community and church. The 2021 award ceremony took place on Saturday, Oct. 2nd and honored the alumni pictured below.

Eunice (Keller) Christensen ‘57 “For faithful dedication and service to church, fostering an engaging community of learning, and compassion in serving diverse communities.”

Donald Meyer ‘72 “For deep commitment to higher education, love of historic preservation, loyal service to church and outstanding contributions to community.”

Olga (Podlesna) Coulton-Shaw ‘99 “For passionate work and tireless efforts as an advocate for children living in poverty, displaying exceptional character and strong faith in all aspects of life”

Kris (Myhrwold) Meyer ‘75 “For effective leadership in a variety of educational settings, loyal service to the church, and remarkable skills as a storyteller, public speaker and preacher.”

20

WALDORF MAGAZINE // SPRING 2022

waldorf.edu


FOUNDATION NEWS

A LETTER FROM THE FOUNDATION CHAIR

(L to R) Ray Beebe, Chase Bulten, Jade Gasteiger, Kade Kloster-Hodak

hundreds of their students and then I ask them: "What can be more important than that?"

I

will begin by confessing that I am really writing this letter prespring and, in fact, it is only mid-February. I wanted to complete it before Joan and I depart in about a week for three weeks in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. Until last year this has been an annual event for probably 15 years but last year COVID broke that string. We are really looking forward to resuming the tradition and getting a little break from the Iowa winter. I have joked before that for those of us living in north Iowa three months of winter "promised" us by the calendar is far from accurate! But by the time we return in mid March I am hopeful that Spring will have arrived at the Waldorf University campus or at least it will be close to arriving. I look forward to those walks around the Waldorf campus once the grass and trees are turning green and the birds have started to sing. We are blessed with such a beautiful campus. As you will see, this issue of the Waldorf Magazine is focused on the Education Department at Waldorf and the students who are pursuing degrees in education. As those of you who have been reading my letters over the years would know, I love to get acquainted with Waldorf students and find out about each of their "Waldorf stories." In the picture accompanying this letter you will see me with three Waldorf education majors, Chase Bulten, Jade Gasteiger and Kade Kloster-Hodak. They were pretty much picked at random from Waldorf education majors who had received scholarships through the Waldorf Lutheran College Foundation. As it turned out, none of them are far from home with Chase hailing from Manson, Iowa, Jade from Lake Mills, Iowa, and Cade from Mason City, Iowa. Chase is a senior and the other two are juniors. I have mentored many high school and college-age young people over the years and I often talk to them about success – what it is and what it isn't. I tell them that it's not about making a lot of money, becoming CEO of a large corporation or reaching the pinnacle of social status but rather the real definition of success is a life and work that brings personal fulfillment and lasting relationships and makes a difference in the world. I sometimes quote Nelson Mandela who said: "What counts in life is not the mere fact that we have lived. It is what a difference we make in the lives of others that will determine the significance of the life we live." I particularly make it a point to tell this to young people aspiring to become teachers. They obviously know that they will not make a lot of money but I tell them during their career they will "make a difference" in the lives of

waldorf.edu

Let me tell you about these three wonderful young people. I can say that they do understand how important teachers can be in "making a difference" in the lives of their students. Chase participates in cross country and track at Waldorf and wants to begin teaching and coaching at the high school level. His ultimate goal is to be a head cross country and track coach at the college level. He talks about his high school cross country coach having a huge positive impact on his life by challenging him and helping him to become a better person and open the door to running at the next level which he says would not of happened without him. He would like to have the same impact on the young people he coaches and teaches. Jade is majoring in elementary education and says that she has always loved working with children. She also mentions teachers she had who made an impact on her and she wants to do the same with her students. She talks of wanting to watch her students learn and grow and being by their side and cheering them on and enjoying her time with them. Kade plays football at Waldorf and says that he has always wanted to coach and to help better the lives of young people. He definitely wants to make a difference in the lives of his students while he is preparing them for the next step in their lives. And what do these three students have to say about their "Waldorf experience?" Chase said that Waldorf has a very accepting environment and that he felt that the professors here are very personable and care about him on a personal level. Jade said that Waldorf has been a great experience and that she appreciated the small class sizes which made it easy to create relationships with the professors and classmates. She feels that her classes have prepared her for success in future teaching endeavors. Kade says that he has had a great time at Waldorf and feels that the small college environment allows you to know everyone and be involved with more activities. So there you have it. Three more students who are definitely happy and passionate about their "Waldorf experience." And each is excited about "making a difference" in the lives of their students. I always end by asking for your continued support of the Waldorf Foundation so that we can continue to provide scholarships which make that "Waldorf experience" attainable by more and 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 Recipient of Honorary Doctorate Degree, Waldorf University (2021)

SPRING 2022 // WALDORF MAGAZINE

21


FOUNDATION NEWS

Waldorf University

Honors Day 2021 Honors Day 2021, Chapel Service & Recognition and Celebration Event, was held Wednesday, Sept. 22 at Boman Fine Arts Center. Donors were recognized for their support of student scholarships and students were recognized for their academic achievements. There were 115 scholarships awarded, 160 total student recipients, and over $200,000 in scholarship funds awarded. The Waldorf Lutheran College Foundation is incredibly grateful for all of our donors!

Owen Solmonson '59 1937-2021 Owen's years at Waldorf College left an indelible mark on him. Many of his friends from his Waldorf days became lifelong friends, and he corresponded regularly with a number of them. As a faithful alumnus, he stayed close to his alma mater, visiting often to offer a friendly hello to staff, and to attend numerous events, including alumni gatherings, concerts, award ceremonies, homecoming events, Christmas programs, and commencements. In his home community or wherever he encountered a prospective college student, he would readily extol the value of a Waldorf education.

Aagot Thomte Swenson Memorial Scholarship

Dean L. Nerem Scholarship

Joshua Martin—Pulaski, WI; Dana Pioske—New Ulm, MN

Autumn Paulson—Chaseburg, WI

Adrian & Eleanor Johnson Endowed Scholarship

Don & Kris Meyer Scholarship

Chase Bulten—Barnum, IA

Aaron Mathahs—Thompson, IA

Adrian & Shirley Ploegstra Scholarship

Donald and Charlotte Anderson Scholarship

Banele Ndlovu—Zimbabwe

Jordan Anderson—Forest City, IA

Al Heppner Scholarship

Dorthy (Nasby) Carlson Music Scholarship

Ellie Clark—LeMars, IA

Noah Hoffman—Mason City, IA

Alan Sansgaard Memorial Scholarship

Dorothy A. Wonsmos Endowed Scholarship

Hanna Clark—Newton, IA

Abigail Lumley—Boone, IA; Christopher Lumley—Boone, IA; Nathanael Lumley—Boone, IA; Aaron Mathahs—Thompson, IA

Anna Marie Mitchell Endowed Scholarship Kade Kloster-Hodak—Mason City, IA Anonymous Donor Scholarship MaCoy Yeakel—Belmond, IA Bartelson Family Endowed Scholarship Hannah Meyer—Burt, IA Baseball Scholarship James Hook—Puyallup, WA Bergland Family Memorial Scholarship Heather Viers—Charles City, IA Bill & Mary Johnson Baseball Scholarship Andrew Di-Giovambattista—Australia Bill Hamm Scholarship Tori-Ann Francis—Jamaica

In 2011, he became a member of the Waldorf Endowment Society. His consistent giving over the years reflected his love for the college, and when he was able to do so financially, he eventually established two scholarships for Waldorf students-the Carol Solomonson Palm Memorial Scholarship, and the John and Opal Solomonson Memorial Scholarship. It was gratifying for him to participate in helping a number of students obtain a college education in this way. Perhaps one of the proudest moments in Owen's life was in Fall 2015 when he showed up for the annual awards banquet at Waldorf, and to his surprise, he was called forward to accept a plaque for the college's first-ever Waldorf Encouragement Award for his "extraordinary support and love for Waldorf College." 22

WALDORF MAGAZINE // SPRING 2022

Bill Smith Scholarship Zachary Bender—Canada; Eric Wildes—Virginia, MN Carlyle Holte Scholarship Nomonde Ndlovu—Zimbabwe Class of ‘48 Scholarship Mara Schmitz—Faribault, MN Class of ‘78 Scholarship Alana Wickering—Mason City, IA Clifton L. & Marjorie J. Bruland Scholarship Starr George—Antigua & Barbuda; Cecelia Hemsworth—Mount Pleasant, IA Communications Scholarship Austin Siegal—Panama City, FL Dale & Agnes Hagen Scholarship Fund

Dr. Lynn & Rosalie Juhl Educational Scholarship Kyle Bell—Garner, IA Dr. Richard Baur Memorial Scholarship Brennan Laugen—Mason City, IA Emalie Edmiston Endowed Scholarship Dalton DeBuono—Hastings, MN English Department Scholarship Charlie Blue—Oconomowoc, WI Eric Bartleson Alumni Scholarship Angel Massee—Northwood, IA Ernest & Mildred Thompson Family Endowed Scholarship Jorge Olivo Cabrera—Andover, MN Ernest H. Schmidt Scholarship Fund Benjamin Schlegel—Brainerd, MN Ethel Hanson Saltou & Celia Ramsey Scholarship Elizabeth Jenkins—Osage, IA Eugene M. & Clarine Strand Endowed Scholarship Katie Cooling—Mason City, IA Everett & Clara Nelson Endowed Scholarship Riley Walton—Cedar Rapids, IA Fietz Scholarship In English Daniel Caruso—Fort Madison, IA; Steven Whittle Ballard—Atlantic, IA Frank & Anna Banta and Family Endowed Scholarship

Brooke Hickey—Adel, IA

Kylie Buns—Buffalo Center, IA; Max Schaefer—Buffalo Center, IA

Dan and Clarice Grefthen Scholarship

Gabby Pierce Scholarship

Adrianna Vargas—Brighton, CO

Isaac Burgett—Emmons, MN

Dan Mork Memorial Scholarship

Genevieve Stelberg Memorial Scholarship

Mikayla Smith—Honolulu, HI

Matthew Jordan—Red Wing, MN; Cade Kujawski—Prior Lake, MN; Jeremiah Lebsack—Duluth, MN; Brayden Lenzmeier—Sartell, MN; Tyler Nelson—Chippewa Falls, WI; Nolan Reynolds—Baxter, MN; Dalton

David Bolstorff Endowed Scholarship Zacharey Schreier—Dell Rapids, SD

waldorf.edu


FOUNDATION NEWS Saba—Ham Lake, MN; Joseph Sloan—Farmington, MN; Ian Templin—Gaylord, MN; Kayleigh Wilkie— Geneva, MN; Danielle Wood—Howard Lake, MN Gerald & Mary Jo Boman Scholarship Ethan Hexamer—Alton, IA; Antonio Lopes—Forest City, IA Gordon and Margaret Cosner Memorial Scholarship Jade Gasteiger—Lake Mills, IA; Tatum Phelps—Algona, IA Gordon and Opal Aasgaard Memorial Scholarship Brandon Brown—Garner, IA Hans & Grace Olson Memorial Scholarship Philip Babineaux—Covina, CA; Pierce Babineaux— Covina, CA; Erick Cortes Parra—Columbia; Diana Dzasezeva—Forest City, IA; Lindsay Field—Eyota, MN; Christian Gerot—Columbus Junction, IA; Tyler Lindsay—Grimes, IA; Marissa Norby—Rudd, IA; Emily Ryerson—Britt, IA; Hayleigh Solano—Millcreek, UT; Ryan Swiderski—Minneapolis, MN; Caden Tchop—Chetek, WI; Courtnie Turner—Farmington, MN; Joseph Van Essen—Edgerton, MN; Jayla Weston—Elmo, UT; Amber Williams—Honolulu, HI Harold & Ella Midtbo Endowed Scholarship Hayde Gallardo—Nipomo, CA; Andrew Huber—Worthington, MN

Ken and Joan Hansen Scholarship

Ralph and Bonita Olsen Scholarship

Kyle Ennis—Cedar Rapids, IA

Christopher Jones—Stanton, IA

Kennes & Alice Kingland Future Teachers Scholarship

Rasmussen Encouragement Award

Faith Kahler—Burt, IA

Dakota Savoie—Owatonna, MN

Larry Lenning Memorial Scholarship

Ray & Joan Beebe Scholarship

Benard Machira—Kenya

Luke Johnson—Leland, IA

Lawrence & Edna Johannesen Memorial Scholarship

Ray Mehl Family Scholarship

Nomonde Ndlovu—Zimbabwe

Anna Beatriz Barros Almeida—Brazil

Lloyd & Josie Erickson Family Scholarship

Rev. P. Lauritz & Alpha Mork Scholarship

Daniela Benavides Clavijo—Peru

Starr George—Antigua and Barbuda

Lois Rose Memorial Scholarship

Roger C. Anderson Memorial Scholarship

Tyler Okada—Anaheim, CA

Noah Miller—Forest City, IA

Luther and Eloyce Tweeten Scholarship Fund

Ron Sime Memorial Scholarship

Chloe Boydstun—Anna, TX; Isaac Burgett— Emmons, MN; Laina Yurs—South Beloit, IL

Kourtney Smith—Grand Saline, TX

M.O. Nilssen Scholarship

Lauren Dohlman—Sheffield, IA

Austin Steele—La Crosse, WI

Ruth & Jacob Lee Scholarship

Maevis Adams Memorial Scholarship

Thor Phelps—Algona, IA

Bennett Eaton—Lake Mills, IA; Makayla Vogt—Forest City, IA

Sam Koehnk Courage Award Scholarship

Margaret ‘Muggie’ Hagen Scholarship

Rosdail Family Memorial Scholarship

Quincy Minor—Milwaukee, WI Second Orm Scholarship

Helen Briggs-Halverson Scholarship

McKaylee Kidd—Roscoe, IL; McKenzie Kidd—Roscoe, IL

Megan Henn—Buffalo Center, IA

Marlys R. Cook Memorial Scholarship

Herb and Cathy Ihle Scholarship

Kaylee Weber—Sigourney, IA

Lance Bob—Houston, TX; Joshua Martin—Pulaski, WI; Thor Phelps—Algona, IA; Laci Roberts— LeClaire, IA; Keshaun Scott—Dover, DE

Marvin E. Simonsen Endowed Scholarship

Daniela Benavides Clavijo—Peru; Joao Oliveira Guimaraes Cabral—Forest City, IA; Cheyenne Orwig—Pocahontas, IA

Samuel Jones—Australia

Seth Wooldridge Endowed Scholarship

Mary Ella Wiese Scholarship

Audrey Skjeie—Forest City, IA

Kyle Ennis—Cedar Rapids, IA

Shaw Family Scholarship

Merle & Delores Kudej Scholarship

Aaron Mathahs—Thompson, IA

Elizabeth Garza—Brownsville, TX; Trinity Perez—Worthing, SD

Shirley Olson Teig Scholarship

History Scholarship Joseph Bauer—Zumbrota, MN; Olivia Martin-King—Fridley, MN Holmen Scholarship Emma Hovenga—Forest City, IA

Metta Fick Family Scholarship

Baili Girkin—Charles City, IA Selmer & Lorena Gunderson Scholarship

Charlotte Wright—Porter, MN

Paige Pierson—Cambridge, IA

St. Olaf Lutheran Church Of Austin/ MN Found. Scholarship

Mildred J. Johnston Memorial Scholarship

Didar Gurbanmyradov—China

Amanda Jamison—Buffalo Center, IA

Stanford & Ruth Holtan Endowed Scholarship

Music Scholarship

Tatum Phelps—Algona, IA

Riley Walton—Cedar Rapids, IA

Stella L. Peterson Memorial Scholarship

O.J. Johnson Scholarship

Brinna Rollefson—Forest City, IA

Anna Beatriz Barros Almeida—Brazil

Stensland Family Scholarship

Odvin Hagen Scholarship

Tristan Furgeson—Algona, IA

Riley Walton—Cedar Rapids, IA

Tracy Mathisen Memorial Award Scholarship

Orval & Esther Trail Education Scholarship

Dalton Thorson—Lake Mills, IA

Ashlyn Brandt—Austin, MN

Trygve Lenning Family Endowed Scholarship

J.D. Mangan Scholarship

Osnes Family Scholarship

Landin Churchman—Ankeny, IA

Michael Heitkamp—Forest City, IA

Piper VanRavenswaay—Hartley, IA

Verna and Harry Reynolds Memorial Scholarship

John & Opal Solomonson Memorial Scholarship

Otto and Margaret Tonneson Scholarship

Katie Chapman—Cresco, IA

Yatnia Hernandez Carranza—Forest City, IA; Samantha Pedelty—Mason City, IA; Brandon Rubalcaba—Grand Junction, CO; Atticus Smith— Kent, WA; Matthew Tran—Chino Hills, CA

Nola Leech—Nashua, IA; Torri Mohwinkel— St. James, MN; Zoe Silovich—Rock Springs, WY; Joshua Woods—Fort Wayne, IN

Howard & Verna Thoresen Scholarship Riley Walton—Cedar Rapids, IA Hubert & Daisy Cormaney Hill Scholarship Savannah Moore—Manly, IA Immanuel Lutheran—Burton Smith Memorial Award Maddy Stott—Saint Charles, IA Ingeborg Coltvet Memorial Scholarship Mordecai Nsabaah—Clear Lake, IA J. Gordon and Agnes M. Christianson Endowed Scholarship Zoe Czapiewski—Rochester, MN; Myra Meyer— Burt, IA; Taylor Moen—Big Lake, MN

John & Viola Olson Scholarship Joshua Bonaiti—United Kingdom; Autumn Petersen—Flora Vista, NM Jolivette Endowed Scholarship Hanna Ferguson—Johnston, IA; Tatum Phelps—Algona, IA Karol Sucher Clemens Memorial Scholarship Alisha Schaefer—Mount Calvary, WI Kathryn Ann Galvin Memorial Scholarship Faith Sorenson—Leland, IA Kathryn Johannesen Kuginskie ‘58 Memorial Scholarship Jordan Lukes—Fort Atkinson, IA

waldorf.edu

Outstanding Future Educator Fund Scholarship Brittany-Ann Kirschbaum—Lake Mills, IA Ove and Mabel Anderson Scholarship Emilie Thompson—Council Bluffs, IA Pastor Mark Ronning Scholarship Abbie Tapp—Forest City, IA Pastor Palmer & Ruth Wold Scholarship

Waldorf Choir Scholarship Dana Pioske—Fairfax, MN Walter & Evelyn Bergland Scholarship Nadia Turner—Bloomington, MN Wayne and Karen Johns Mathematics Scholarship Nicole Callow—Forest City, IA William and Mary Johnson Scholarship Cathryn Tavares—Kapolei, HI; Noah Ward—South St. Paul, MN

Rebekah Jensvold—Buffalo Center, IA Pete & Janet Hermanson Scholarship Isabelle Christian—Gainesville, TX; McKenna Clouse—Mounds View, MN

SPRING 2022 // WALDORF MAGAZINE

23


CAMPUS MINISTRY

Dear Waldorf Alumni, Blessings to you as we start this new year, praying for a healthier and more fulfilling 2022 than the last 2 years as we continue through this pandemic. Even as the pandemic continues, Campus Ministry continues to thrive! We have increased both the diversity of programming and attendance in chapel; grown attendance for on-campus religious groups; hired many new and skilled students to work with Campus Ministry; and done all of it with an unprecedentedly large entering class this year. That class was so large, in fact, the Religious Studies department asked me to step in to teaching one section of Introduction to Biblical Literature in Fall 2021, in addition to my Campus Ministry duties! This was my first time teaching a college course, or any kind of semesterlong course of any kind, and while it was an unprecedented challenge, I enjoyed nearly every minute of it! The class gave me a far broader vision of how Waldorf prepares students to be leaders at Waldorf, and where students might need help as they transition into college life. I kept these two callings in conversation the whole semester: my teaching enriched my ministry, and my ministry enriched my teaching. As of now, I am proud of any student who makes it through such a rigorous course, and comes out of it asking themselves better questions about what they believe, which is more important than a number or letter on a grade report. I especially want to thank the Academic Achievement Center for helping me with students, as I believe Campus Ministry is at its best with regular communication across a variety of offices, as befits the liberal arts goal of “Teaching the whole person.” 24

WALDORF MAGAZINE // SPRING 2022

I have also been proud to share the Word of God with local congregations as a substitute preacher, and represent Waldorf in that way. Connecting to local communities is a non-negotiable part of campus life, and in preaching in local congregations, I have continued building close relationships so that both Campus Ministry and those churches might become better from engaging with each other. Once again, I would like to thank the Waldorf Community for supporting us through the continuing COVID-19 pandemic: though we don’t know when it will end and we can start going back to normal, I appreciate the continuation of support from all of you, because you know how important connection is. To paraphrase a biblical passage from Esther 4:14: “Perhaps you were called for such a time as this” and that includes everyone in the Waldorf community. In closing, I pray that all of us stay healthy, and that we care for our neighbors with the burning love that Waldorf has instilled in us with the pillar of “Community.” Sincerely,

Eric Adamcik, Campus Ministry Coordinator

waldorf.edu


CAMPUS MINISTRY

CHAPEL Recap

I have been delighted with the way Chapel has gone in Fall 2021, and the ways in which it continues to evolve! We have increased attendance to their highest numbers since I arrived on campus, and encouraged more students and faculty to step up and lead chapel by sharing their stories and reflections. For Faculty, we were first blessed to have History Professor Dr. Jonathan Klauke in Chapel during Homecoming Week, where he preached about 5 different Bible verses at once to help guide new students into their experiences at Waldorf. Later in the semester, we also invited Religion Professor Steve Smith to talk about Reformation Sunday and Martin Luther, reflecting on the university's Lutheran heritage and how we use those roots to continue educating the whole student at Waldorf. And yet, as varied and helpful as the Faculty chapels were, the student lead chapels shone the brightest in the semester! Our first-year student Nolan Reynolds, led a wonderful chapel about being your best self, which was coupled with a song from his days as a church camp counselor-he blew us all away, showing a maturity as a worship leader that I, as a campus minister, didn’t have until seminary, let alone college!

I was also ecstatic to host a series of chapels with my Biblical Literature class, who had the option of leading a chapel around a text we’ve studied as their final exam. A good half of my students used this option, which was a fantastic alternative to a final paper, in that my students were encouraged to get to a text’s core and practice public speaking. In these chapels, my students shared helpful insights about loyalty in Ruth and life transitions in 2 Kings, and for that, they made this Campus Minister-turned-Professor very proud! Our final chapel of the Fall semester was led by our new Peer Minister for Chapel Worship, Tori-Ann Francis, who gave us a lifeaffirming prayer asking for God’s presence in the midst of loneliness around the holidays, finals, and the future in general, requesting God’s “protection and coverage.” It was a warm moment for all gathered, and one we badly needed in that cold and busy time of year! If you or someone you know want to keep up with Chapel, and Campus Ministry in general, we usually broadcast our chapel live at 10:30 am on Wednesdays during the school year on the Facebook page for “Waldorf Campus Ministry”.

CAMPUS MINISTRY photos

Members of Campus Ministry created Valentine's Day cards for residents of a local senior community center.

waldorf.edu

Campus Ministry presented a program at chapel called Campus Ministry members offered a break with breakfast pizza to help students de-stress. "Breaking Shackles" during Black History Month.

SPRING 2022 // WALDORF MAGAZINE

25


ALUMNI NEWS

CLASS UPDATE

CLASS UPDATES: 1940'S

CLASS UPDATES: 1970'S

CLASS UPDATES: 1990'S

Reverend Dale Peterson ’48 resides in Lakota, N.D. Dale was inducted into Warren Alvarado Oslo High School Alumni Hall of Fame in 2021.

Wayne Cooper ’70 and Jean (Martin) Cooper ’70 celebrated their 50th Anniversary in July. They are retired and live in West Des Moines.

Badara Njai ’90 resides in Clarksburg, Md. His email address is badunjai@gmail.com.

CLASS UPDATES: 1950'S Twyla (Koop) Hall ’56 writes “I have resided in Bettendorf for 53 years. I retired from American Express Financial in 2005 and from the Mends Wearhouse (part-time) in 2008. My children are: Judy (David) Kahrik, Jeffrey (Karen) Hall and Lisa (Richard) Seifert. I have 7 grandchildren (5 married) and 3 step-grandsons (2 married), 12 great grandchildren (ages 2 months to 18 years) and 5 step-great-granddaughters. I have enjoyed attending church programs, Sports (wrestling, soccer, track, football, basketball and volleyball games), concerts and contests (band and vocal) over the years for my children, grandchildren and older greatgrandchildren. Baking bread and cinnamon rolls with all of the grandchildren and greatgrandchildren has been most enjoyable. Helping great granddaughters make apple, peach and chocolate cream and cherry pie was also fun for all of us. Doing some yard work at home and at my farm at Kamrar is great exercise as well as shoveling snow. God has blessed me with great health, family and friends.”

CLASS UPDATES: 1960'S Janora (Gustafson) Hodges ’61 resides in Lake Mills. Janora recently moved back to Lake Mills after residing in Arizona for 25 years. Her email address is janorahodgeshypnotist@hotmail.com

Nancy (Johnston) Ginapp ’71 resides in Marshalltown. Nancy writes “1976-2010 retired school counselor from Marshalltown Community School District, 1983-2014 also retired staff member from Psychology at Marshalltown Community College. 19832014 retired from Buena Vista University after teaching in Psychology, Education and Human Services.” Her email address is chip.ginapp@gmail.com. Karen (Kohn) Summers ’72 resides in Springfield, Ill. Karen is semi-retired working at the Senior Center in Springfield, IL. Together with her husband she has 5 children (all scattered across the country), 9 grandchildren, and 3 step-grandchildren. Her email address is kohnsumm73@comcast.net. Debra (Eldredge) Martinez ’75 resides in West Des Moines. Her email address is deb.nordaas@gmail.com. Mary (Evanson) Blackwell ’75 resides in Northfield, Minn. Mary has published two new children’s books, a middle grade novel called “The Worry Knot” and “The Birthday Cookbook”. These join her three picture books. A four-book nonfiction series releases in September: “Awesome Disgusting Careers”. Her website is: www.marybleckwehl.com Bill Gahan ’79 resides in Urbandale. His email address is gahanbill04@gmail.com.

CLASS UPDATES: 1980'S

Arnold Lund ’66 resides in Kadoka, S.D. His email address is badlander@kadokatelco.com

Kenneth Boeckenstedt ’84 resides in Edgewood. His email address is kboeckenstedt@spahnandrose.com

Lynn (Hagen) Erie ’68 resides in Orchid, Fla. Her email address is lynnerie@comcast.net

Craig Anderson ’86 resides in Seattle, Wash. Craig writes “We’re back in Seattle. Love the Pacific Northwest! Feeling very fortunate to have had the opportunities to live in Honolulu and San Francisco over the last 20 years. Looking forward to working with local artist and nonprofits again. After finishing our home remodel and completing my certification, I’ll be starting a home inspection business. Stay healthy, stay awesome!” His email address is craig@iwantapuppy.org.

Dr. Randy Juhl '68 was a 2021 recipient of the Osterhaus Medal for Lifetime Achievement by the University of Iowa College of Pharmacy. The Osterhaus Medal is presented annually to an individual who has made extraordinary achievements in the pharmacy profession and is the premier award given by the College. Steve Sondall ’69 resides in Norwalk. His email address is sncsondall70@gmail.com

26

WALDORF MAGAZINE // SPRING 2022

Daniel Mills ’89 resides in Newton. His email address is legionsofdoom69@gmail.com

Tracy Erickson ’91 resides in Oak Grove, Minn. Her email address is norwane02@yahoo.com Shamani Shikwambi ’95 resides in Thief River Falls, Minn. His email address is shikwambi@gmail.com Carolyn (Larson) Price ’96 resides in Forest City. Her email address is carprice@icloud.com Nick Wellen ’98 resides in Littleton, Colo. His email address is n.wellen@mac.com Bobbie Jo (Cox) Ryan ’99 resides in Kennesaw, Ga. Bobbie writes “Tim and I are still living in Kennesaw, GA where we moved following his graduation from chiropractic school. We started our chiropractic office in 2011 and I started my graphic design business in 2008. Both of these have kept us busy along with homeschooling our two kids. Our son, Connor, is finishing his senior year as a dual enrolled student. Our daughter, Kylee, is continuing to homeschool for her sophomore year of high school. We absolutely love our church home and family and our active missions.” Her email address is BobbieJoRyan@gmail.com

CLASS UPDATES: 2000'S Brandon Baker ’01 resides in Saint Louis Park, Minn. His email address is teddybear0521@gmail.com

CLASS UPDATES: 2010'S Jeffrey Peterson ’12 resides in New Hope, Minn. com. Jeff is a tenured PE teacher at Neill Elementary in Robbinsdale, Minn. He is working on a Masters Degree in leadership online through Waldorf. His email address is jpete9776@gmail. Scott Peterson ’15 resides in New Hope, Minn. Scott has worked 6+ years as Sales/ Insurance Coordinator at an international truck dealership in Minneapolis. He is currently working on his online MBA degree. His email address is sjp18015@yahoo. Jarred Becker ’16 resides in Stewartville, Minn. Jarred is currently working as Director of Business Operations and Play-By-Play Voice of the Austin Bruins Junior Hockey Club in Austin, Minn. He and his wife, Tiana, and daughter, Raevyn, currently reside in Stewartville, Minn. His email address is Jarred.Becker@yahoo.com

waldorf.edu


CLASS UPDATE

For a more detailed list of In Memoriam, please visit waldorffoundation.org

Todd Stevenson ’17 resides in Grand Rapids, Mich. His email address is toddwith2ds@sbcglobal.net Jessica Dolan ’18 resides in Belton, Mo. Her email address is jmdolan@gmail.com. Ana Shuman ’18 resides in Chinquapin. Her email address is anashuman@anasmeaningfulife.com. Shane Anderson ’19 resides in Battlefield, Mo. Shane retired from the City of Monett Fire Department in 2020 after 23 years. Accepted a Division Chief position with the Battlefield Fire Protection District upon leaving Monett. Both departments are in Missouri. His email address is f_14@hotmail.com.

CLASS UPDATES: 2020'S Brett Rose ’20 resides in Hamilton, Ohio. His email address is brose9@aol.com Theodore Schoneman ’20 resides in Garner. His email address is tschoneman115@gmail.com Joe Tambe ’20 resides in Santa Clarita, Calif. Joe graduated from Waldorf in 2020 in Emergency Management in Fire Technology. Joe writes: “My son will be 2 years old this month (1/2022) and my second son was born on January 5, 2022. We have one rescued husky at home named Blu. I work for San Bernardino Fire in SoCal, I currently hold the position of fire engineer. I was promoted in July 2019, and since then have completed my airport rescue fire fighter training, ladder truck engineer front end training and currently enrolled in the company officer promotion series for fire captain.” Kevin McGee ’21 resides in El Cajon, Calif. His email address is kmcgee.sms@outlook.com.

IN MEMORIAM: 1940'S Clarine (McKee) Moe ’43 passed away Oct. 28, 2021. Nettie (Mehus) Kimball ’48 passed away Jan. 19, 2022. Violet (Mino) Opdahl ’49 passed away Jan. 20, 2022. Viola (Berge) West ’49 passed away Sept. 22, 2021

IN MEMORIAM: 1950'S Marilyn (Ellefson) Boyd ’52 passed away Jan. 24, 2022.

waldorf.edu

ALUMNI NEWS

Rhys Hanson ’52 passed away Nov. 5, 2021

Diane (Odland) Duncan ’67 passed away Oct. 6, 2021.

Ernestine (Lindeman) Larson ’52 passed away Oct. 22, 2021.

Mark Swenson ’67 passed away Oct. 13, 2021.

Janice (Burtness) Abrams ’53 passed away Nov. 17, 2021

Dwight Doerring ’68 passed away May 3, 2021.

Allen Carlson ’53 passed away August 1, 2021.

Melvia Soenke ’68 passed away Oct. 2, 2021.

LaVerne Anderson ’54 passed away Aug. 26, 2019.

IN MEMORIAM: 1970'S

Janice (Mandsager) Grinde ’54 passed away Dec. 5, 2021 Marilyn (Gangestad) Bang ’56 passed away Jan. 24, 2022. Gladys (Helland) Doocy ‘56 passed away March 8, 2020. Lois (Picht) Svestka ’56 passed away Jan. 19, 2022.

Rodney Dybing ’72 passed away Nov. 5, 2021. Eileen (Olson) Gengler ’73 passed away Jan. 10,, 2022. Lynne (Pfister) Lamp ’74 passed away Jan. 2, 2022. Dale Lamp ’77 passed away Dec. 31, 2021.

IN MEMORIAM: 1980'S

Carolyn (Olson) Ullestad ’56 passed away Oct. 21, 2021.

Keith Schlichte ’83 passed away Aug. 1, 2021

Roger Bolstad ’57 passed away Sept. 15, 2021.

Robin “Bird” (Hall) Haines ‘89 passed away Nov. 27, 2021.

Beverly (Borg) Wilhite ’57 passed away Oct. 24, 2021.

IN MEMORIAM: 1990'S

Geraldine (Nelson) Thompsen ’58 passed away Aug. 15, 2021

Cynthia Clark-McClement ’93 passed away Sept. 25, 2021.

IN MEMORIAM: 1960'S

Michael Gardner ’96 passed away Sept. 28, 2021.

Marilyn (Courrier) Malmanger ’60 passed away Sept. 22, 2017.

FORMER FACULTY/STAFF

Richard Nelson ’60 passed away Aug. 12, 2021.

Debra Bertelsen, dining services (1997-present) passed away Feb. 12, 2022.

Ronald Lompe ’61 passed away Oct. 7, 2021.

Dr. Carol Fischer, Biology Professor (2016-present) passed away Feb. 25, 2022.

Phillip Thune ’61 passed away Nov. 22, 2021.

Rev. Philip Peters, former Dean of Students and Director of Development, passed away Nov. 3, 2021.

Carol (Stark) Neal ’62 passed away July 31, 2021. James Donohue ’63 passed away Feb, 26, 2021.

Stanley Thompson, former maintenance staff (1990-1997) passed away Nov. 6, 2021.

James Nelson ’63 passed away Dec. 9, 2021. Larry Rorem ’66 passed away Dec. 22, 2020.

SPRING 2022 // WALDORF MAGAZINE

27


ON SSI PA

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 S O T S O G ET G ET I A L G A L I WALDORF UNIVERSITY GE C I A L C I A L SO C SO C PERFORMING ARTS S O T S O G ET G ET E IAL IAL GMARCH C7-11, 2022 C Waldorf Music & Theatre SO T SO 2022 Spring Season MARCHE18, 2022 G 106 S. 6th St. Forest City, IA 50436

//

M CO

CHANGE SERVICE REQUESTED

MU

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

NIT

Y

//

ESS CC SU

A TR //

2022 WA LD O RF E V ENTS

ION DIT

MARCH

Spring Break

Alumni Panel Discussion APRIL

APRIL 15-17, 2022 Easter Break

APRIL 29, 2022 Junior Preview Day MAY

MAY 7, 2022

Spring Theatre Workshop, April 8 @ Smith Theatre Spongebob Squarepants: The Broadway Musical, April 6-9 @ Boman Fine Arts Center Spring Spectacular, April 22 Jazz & Percussion Ensembles - 7 pm @ Boman Mezzanine Spring Spectacular, April 24 Waldorf Wind Symphony -1 pm Waldorf Choir - 3 pm @ Boman Fine Arts Center

Commencement AUGUST

AUGUST 10, 2022 Residential Classes Start OCTOBER

Waldorf Choir Spring Tour Dates (Southern Minnesota): Tuesday, May 10 – Fairmont Opera House (7 pm) Wednesday, May 11 – First Lutheran Church of Albert Lea (6:30 pm) Thursday, May 12 – Faribault - (Location/Time - TBD) Friday, May 13 – St. John Lutheran Church of Owatonna (7 pm) Sunday, May 15 – Mount Olive Lutheran Church of Rochester (Time -TBD)

OCTOBER 21-23, 2022 Homecoming

Please check the Waldorf University website for showtimes, ticket information and live streaming events.


Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.