The Recipe for
Success
With a clear vision and hands-on approach, the CLHS Culinary Arts program is preparing students for college, careers and beyond.
FROM THE HEAD OF SCHOOL...
Spring arrives at Concordia with a particular kind of weight. The calendar fills up with many "lasts." Last game, last concert, last chapel, and even the most ordinary moments carry something extra. The last time eating a school lunch together. The last time seeing a familiar face in the hallway. For some of our seniors, perhaps the last time being truly home in this place.
Every week this year, I've sat in chapel and at our Koinonia table with three of those seniors: Ariella, Bernadette, and Ian. They are part of my Koinonia group, one of the mixed-age clusters of 12 to 14 students that gather weekly for worship and fellowship throughout all four years of high school. Each year, graduating seniors leave and a handful of freshmen take their place, so the group slowly turns over while its bonds deepen. Our principal, Patrick Frerking, often calls Koinonia a key ingredient of Concordia's "special sauce," and sitting across from these three this spring, I understand exactly what he means.
Ariella, Bernadette, and Ian would not likely have found each other on their own. The school hallways tend to sort students naturally by activity, interest, and grade. But Koinonia doesn't sort. It gathers. And so, week after week, a deeply committed JROTC cadet and athlete, a passionate thespian and artist, and an infectious fun-loving soccer player sat together, prayed together, and genuinely showed care for each other. I have been privileged to listen to their joys and struggles, their celebrations and their prayer requests, for four years.
Concordia's name comes from the Latin roots con and cor, together and heart, hearts together. That is what I witnessed in that small group: hearts together, with Christ at the center.
When Ariella, Bernadette ("Berny" to those of us lucky enough to know her well), and Ian walk across the stage this spring, I will be watching with a full heart. I am proud of each of them and full of hope for what is ahead of them. And I trust, as I do for every student who passes through these halls, that God will go with them as they go.
This magazine celebrates a school year well-lived in faith and community. God has been at work in the lives of our students, and the evidence is everywhere: In the music, in the competition, in the performances, and in the quiet moments around a chapel pew with 12 people who are learning what it is to be of one heart. The mission continues, not because of programs or calendars, but because of people like these three, united in heart and in Christ.
In Concordia, Jacob Pennekamp HEAD OF SCHOOL
Go Cadets!
CADETS
MAGAZINE
Spring 2026 | Vol. 34 | Issue 2
HEAD OF SCHOOL
Jacob Pennekamp ‘92
PRINCIPAL
Patrick Frerking
CHIEF ADVANCEMENT OFFICER
Matthew Konow ‘91
MAGAZINE EDITOR
Brent Childers
MAGAZINE DESIGNER
Danielle Hoelle
ADVANCEMENT STAFF
Audrey (Ehle) Gilbert ‘08 Director of Annual Giving
Jenny (Hallien) Grisez ‘93 Development Operations Specialist
Dawn Schuller Director of Admissions and Retention
Karla (Hesterman) St. Myers ‘07 Advancement Strategy Coordinator
Sierra Becker Admissions Counselor
COVER PHOTO
Chef Michelle Towler is joined by senior culinary students Rose Folster and Preston Essex who are both pursuing education and careers in culinary arts following graduation.
CLHS MISSION
Concordia Lutheran High School pursues Christ-centered educational excellence that equips individuals for lifelong learning and service as disciples of Jesus Christ.
Concordia Lutheran High School
1601 St. Joe River Drive Fort Wayne, Indiana 46805 clhscadets.com
DOMMER RECEIVES GLASS SPIKE AWARD
Senior Kiera Dommer was honored with the prestigious Glass Spike Award in December 2025 following an exceptional girls volleyball season. Presented annually by the Journal Gazette, the Glass Spike Award recognizes the most outstanding high school girls volleyball player in the Summit Athletic Conference and is voted on by SAC coaches. Widely regarded as one of the premier volleyball honors in northeast Indiana,
the award celebrates elite performance and excellence on the court. Kiera is the first Concordia studentathlete to receive the award since Jersey Loyer earned the honor in 2023, further cementing Concordia’s tradition of distinction in girls volleyball. Her recognition reflects her dedication, leadership and impact on the Cadets volleyball program throughout her high school career.
DECA INTERNATIONAL
The DECA International Career Development Conference (ICDC) welcomed more than 26,000 students and advisors to Atlanta, Georgia, from April 25–29, 2026. With a record membership of 316,093 worldwide, DECA continues to provide exceptional opportunities for future leaders in business. Five CLHS seniors qualified for international competition by advancing through district and state events: Anna Clem and Abby Hawk in Buying and Merchandising Team Decision Making, Hannah Clark and Lilly Schlicker in Hospitality Services Team Decision Making, and Sam David in Hotel and Lodging Management Series. Congratulations to these students for representing CLHS DECA and Indiana on the international stage.
HOSA SLC 2026: CHAMPIONS OF CHANGE
This year, International HOSA: Future Health Professionals celebrates its 50th anniversary with the theme “Champions of Change.” The youngest of the Career and Technical Student Organizations (CTSOs), HOSA is one of the fastest growing CTSOs due to the demand for healthcare workers and the expansion of opportunities within the organization.
The Concordia Lutheran High School HOSA chapter celebrates its 10th year of affiliation with the organization. This year, 22 CLHS HOSA students prepared to compete in 19 different healthcare-related events at the HOSA Indiana State Leadership Conference, April 15-17, 2026 in Indianapolis. This year’s state conference boasted a record 2,454 students across the state competing in over 100 different competitive events. Ten CLHS students placed in the top five for their event (listed below). Ariella Rivera, Beata Peperkorn and Emma Bledsoe automatically advance to the International Leadership Conference which will be held in Indianapolis June 17-20.
Patient Care Technician
• 1st place - Ariella Rivera
• 4th place - Eva Lugo
• 5th place - Miriam Hein
CPR/First Aid
• 3rd place - Beata Peperkorn & Emma Bledsoe
Medical Reading
• 5th place - Margret Gilman
Clinical Nursing
• 4th place - Keaton Gass
• 5th place - Julia Cobb
Forensic Science
• 5th place - Taylor Whaley & Adelyn Brown
SENIOR GYMNASTS FINISH STRONG
Senior Remmi Tallent has been a dedicated member of the CLHS gymnastics team for all four years of her high school career, has served as team captain for three years and qualified for the IHSAA State Finals each year. This year at State, she earned an impressive 2nd place finish on vault and placed 8th all-around. She also broke a 10+ year school record on the balance beam.
Senior Makenzie Bowen has been a member of the gymnastics team for two years (freshman and senior years) and made a remarkable impact in her final season. This past season she broke the school record on the balance beam and tied the floor exercise school record. She made it to the IHSAA State Finals this year, placing an outstanding 5th all-around.
REMMI TALLENT
MAKENZIE BOWEN
YEARBOOK STUDENTS EARN
AWARDS
Concordia Lutheran High School’s yearbook staff earned multiple honors at the Ball State University Journalism Day on April 24, competing against some of Indiana’s top scholastic journalism programs. The team received the 3rd place Cardinal Award for overall excellence for its upcoming 2026 yearbook. Individual honors included 1st place awards for Trennon Chavez’s football spread design and Remmi Tallent’s table of contents spread design. Erin Hartzog, Isabelle Burns and Kennedy Arroyo earned 2nd place for student life spread design, while Isabelle also received 3rd place for photo of the year for her entry titled “Boldly Us.”
KDET-TV RECEIVES AWARDS
Concordia Lutheran High School’s KDET-TV student broadcasting team earned multiple honors at the Ball State University Student Media Contest on April 24. The staff received the 3rd place Cardinal Award for overall excellence in broadcast production for its 2026 program, along with 2nd place in Broadcast
News/Announcements for Episode 5 of KDET-TV and 2nd place in News Story Package for “A Bold Step.” Sophie Whetstone earned 3rd place in News Story Package for “Concordia Day,” while Cameron Jacob received 3rd place for Broadcast Intro/Opening for the KDET-TV intro sequence.
STRING ORCHESTRA 2025-2026
The CLHS String Orchestra has enjoyed a wonderful year of making music together. The season began in October with the opportunity to perform as part of a service at Zion Lutheran Church, an inspiring experience in a beautiful sanctuary. In November, more than 150 students came together for the Combined Elementary Orchestra Concert, followed by December’s “Christmas at the Embassy,” where the orchestra joined the full CLHS Music Department for one of the year’s most anticipated performances.
As spring arrived, the Orchestra’s schedule quickly filled. In April, the group performed at the ISSMA District Organizational Contest, showcasing their hard
work and growth. The year concluded with two final concerts, one alongside the elementary orchestras and another featuring the full high school instrumental
program. It has truly been a memorable and rewarding year for the CLHS String Orchestra.
MARCHING CADETS PERFORM IN NATIONAL PARADE
The Concordia Lutheran High School Marching Band had the distinct honor of participating in the prestigious National Memorial Day Parade in Washington, D.C., on May 25, 2026. This marked the third invitation for the program, following appearances in 2013
and 2022, and made the occasion even more significant as part of the nation’s 250th anniversary celebration. It was a historic opportunity for the band to represent its school, community, and faith on a national stage.
The trip also served as the band’s annual tour, with stops in Cleveland, Pittsburgh, and the Baltimore area. Along the way, students engaged with diverse communities, grew as musicians, and strengthened their shared sense of faith and
purpose. This unforgettable journey reflects both the dedication of the students and the continued support of the Concordia community, as the band shared its music and mission: Soli Deo Gloria.
FOUR LADY CADETS TAKE THE NEXT STEP TO DIVISION I ATHLETICS
This year, Concordia Lutheran High School celebrates four graduating seniors who will continue their athletic careers at the NCAA Division I level. Their journeys reflect years of discipline, perseverance and growth, supported every step of the way by coaches, teammates and the CLHS community. As they prepare for what’s ahead, each student-athlete carries forward not only talent, but a strong foundation of character and faith.
Mallory Weller – NC State
Mallory will attend North Carolina State University, joining one of the nation’s premier cross country programs while also competing in distance events on the track team. She plans to study life sciences, beginning on a human biology track.
At Concordia, Mallory developed both her competitive edge and her sense of community.
“Concordia has prepared me well for this next step by providing opportunities to work hard each day alongside supportive peers,” she said. “I’m part of a strong community that encourages and uplifts me.”
Hannah Clark – Belmont University
Hannah has committed to Belmont University, where she will compete in cross country and track in the Missouri Valley Conference. She plans to major in nursing and minor in psychology.
Hannah credits her growth to the consistent support she received throughout her time at Concordia.
“With the support of my coaches, teachers, family and friends, I am excited to see my talents continue to develop beyond high school,” she said.
She also points to the school’s Christ-centered environment as foundational, shaping how she approaches both competition and life.
Alivia Bolinger – Purdue Fort Wayne
Alivia will continue her basketball career at Purdue University Fort Wayne while pursuing a degree in elementary education. Her time at Concordia challenged her to grow not only as an athlete, but as a student and leader.
Through that experience, she developed discipline, independence and confidence; qualities she will carry with her into college athletics.
“Attending Concordia has shaped me into the person I am today, both academically and personally,” Alivia said.
Jennifer Dressler – Temple University
Jennifer will join the Division I rowing program at Temple University while pursuing a double major in criminal justice and psychology.
For Jennifer, the sense of community at Concordia made a lasting impact.
“What I love about being at Concordia is the immense love and care I feel from the community around me,” she said. “There is always someone who is supporting me when I need them most.”
That support helped her grow into a confident competitor, ready to take on the challenges of collegiate athletics.
CLASS OF 2026 Congratulations
ACADEMIC AWARDS FOR THE SENIOR CLASS OF 2026
VALEDICTORIAN
KATHRYN CROOK
Belmont University
Majoring in Marketing and Pre-Med
HERBERT BIRKMAN SENIOR DEPARTMENT AWARDS
THEOLOGY ......................................................... Nadia Sargeant
ENGLISH Lilly Schlicker
BUSINESS ................................................................ Kellyn Cook
FAMILY & CONSUMER SCIENCE ................. Alivia Bolinger
JROTC ................................................................ Jennifer Dressler
PHYSICAL EDUCATION ....................................... Elliot Yoder
MATHEMATICS .................................................... Samuel David
SCIENCE Kathryn Crook
SOCIAL STUDIES ................................................ Hudson Kraft
WORLD LANGUAGES................................... Beata Peperkorn
INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC ............................ Isaiah Castleman
VOCAL MUSIC ...................................................... Zachary Cecil
VISUAL ARTS ....................................................... Abigail Powell
MEDIA ARTS - BROADCASTING ................. Daniel Masasu
MEDIA ARTS -
PHOTOGRAPHY/DESIGN............................. Isabelle Madden
THEATRE ARTS ..................................................... Megan Slack
ADDITIONAL AWARDS
GERMAN .............................................................. Emma Bledsoe
LATIN ............................................................................Erik Olsen
SPANISH ................................................................... Kellyn Cook
AP STATISTICS .................................................... Hudson Kraft
HONORS PRECALCULUS Isaac Jomo
AP ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE ................... Abigail Powell
MARTIN FISCHER
MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP
BEATA PEPERKORN
The Martin Fischer Memorial Scholarship provides $8,000 annually for four years to a student pursuing a degree in a humanities-related field.
SALUTATORIAN CARSON DALE
Trine University
Majoring in Mechanical Engineering
CARL F. GALLMEIER ENDOWED SCHOLARSHIP
ZACHARY CECIL
The Carl F. Gallmeier Memorial College Scholarship is a $1,500 four-year annual college scholarship for students attending a Lutheran college or university to prepare for a career in Christian education or the pastoral ministry.
SENIOR PLANS
Anderson University
Ball State University
Belmont University
Bowling Green State University
Butler University
Concordia University Chicago
Concordia University Wisconsin
Culinary Institute of America
Davenport University
DePauw University
Elmira College
Fairmont State University
Fashion Institute of Technology
Grace College
Grand Valley State University
Hanover College
Indiana Institute of Technology
Indiana State University
Indiana University
Indiana University Fort Wayne
Indiana Wesleyan University
Ivy Tech Community College
Kent State University
Manchester University
Marian University
Miami University Ohio
North Carolina State University
Peninsula College
Purdue Fort Wayne
Purdue University
Saint Francis University
Saint Louis University
Syracuse University
Taylor University
Temple University
Trine University
University of Cincinnati
University of Louisville
University of Toledo
Apprenticeship Program
Joining the Military
Joining the Workforce
Trade School
Success The Recipe for
With a clear vision and hands-on approach, the CLHS Culinary Arts program is preparing students for college, careers and beyond.
A Growing Program with a Clear Vision
Since the fall of 2023, the culinary arts program at Concordia Lutheran High School has grown into a dynamic, industryaligned pathway designed to prepare students for both postsecondary education and careers in the culinary field.
Led by Chef Michelle Towler, the program offers a structured three-year curriculum that includes Principles of Culinary, Nutrition, and Advanced Culinary Arts. Each course builds intentionally on the last, equipping students with foundational knowledge while immersing them in hands-on experiences that mirror professional kitchen environments.
Hands-On Learning Through Real-World Experience
A defining strength of the program is its emphasis on real-world application. Students regularly plan, prepare and serve meals for a wide range of school events, including luncheons, banquets and special gatherings. The culinary team also supports internal events such as the JROTC Dining In, executing meals with industry-level standards, techniques and attention to detail.
Collaboration across campus further enriches the student experience. In a recent crossdisciplinary project, culinary students prepared salads using lettuce grown through a hydroponics system in Mrs. Castleman’s
science class, an initiative supported by the Cadet Fund. Beyond campus, students have also extended their talents to the community, including providing food for St. Michael Lutheran Church’s Easter brunch.
From Home Economics to Industry-Aligned Curriculum
The program represents a significant evolution from its earlier roots. What began as a traditional home economics course, later transitioning into family and consumer sciences, has been reimagined into a rigorous culinary pathway aligned with Indiana’s updated college and career readiness standards. These standards ensure students are gaining skills and knowledge that translate directly to postsecondary programs and the workforce.
Chef Towler brings valuable experience from the postsecondary level, helping shape a program that reflects both current industry expectations and academic rigor.
“When you think of the program now, what it was and what it is, we are teaching an Indiana standards-based curriculum using ProStart,” Towler said. “We’re accelerating what students are exposed to and how they prepare for professional expectations.”
Leadership and Competition Through FCCLA
Many students further extend their learning through Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA), a national organization focused on leadership development, community service and career exploration. Through FCCLA, students participate in competitions, manage projects and develop leadership skills at both the state and national levels.
This year, seven CLHS students attended the FCCLA State Conference in Muncie, participating in leadership sessions, STAR Events and the ProStart competition. Made possible through support from the Cadet Fund, the trip provided students with valuable opportunities to compete, network and grow
as leaders. Senior Rose Folster competed in the Baking and Pastry category, Heaven Harris served as a voting proxy and photographer, and senior Keaton Gass represented CLHS as a member of the ProStart culinary team.
“Being part of the Culinary Arts program has given me opportunities I wouldn’t have had otherwise,” Gass said. “Competing in ProStart and working alongside my teammates has helped me build real skills and see what a future in this industry could look like.”
“I’ve learned so much through competing in the STAR competition, especially in baking and pastry,” Folster added. “It’s pushed me to be more precise, more creative and more confident in my skills as I prepare for a future in the culinary field.”
Student Success and Future Pathways
Students are already seeing those experiences translate into future opportunities. Folster has been accepted to the Culinary Institute of America in New York and plans
to begin her studies at Ivy Tech before transferring. Senior Preston Essex has also been accepted to the Culinary Institute of America and will attend this fall.
“The Culinary Arts program really helped me figure out what I want to do after high school,” Essex said. “It gave me direction, hands-on experience and the confidence to pursue a future in the culinary field.”
As the program continues to grow, students are exploring a wide range of pathways, from culinary arts to hospitality and tourism management. Whether they pursue higher education or enter the workforce directly, they leave CLHS equipped with practical skills, professional experience and a strong sense of direction.
Through its blend of rigorous coursework, real-world application and leadership development, the Culinary Arts program at Concordia Lutheran High School is doing more than teaching students how to cook, it’s preparing them to succeed.
Rose Folster has emerged as a standout Culinary Arts student, turning her passion for baking into a growing business venture. Through Amp Lab at Electric Works, she has taken part in competitions and real-world experiences that helped shape her concept, Baker’s Heaven, a bakery focused on inclusive treats for customers with dietary restrictions.
Folster earned 3rd place and a $750 award at a Trine University-sponsored “Shark Tank” competition on Feb. 25, 2026. She presented her business to judges, highlighting her approach of offering multiple variations of each product, including gluten-free, vegan, dairy-free, sugarfree and nut-free options. Judges praised her confidence, knowledge and passion.
In addition, Folster has received multiple grants and scholarships through FCCLA and placed 2nd in a regional baking and pastry competition in Muncie, Indiana. She recently secured an LLC, making her an official business owner in the state.
She plans to attend Ivy Tech and continue building her business. “The Culinary Arts program helped guide me on this path and gave me the confidence and opportunities to turn my passion into a real business,” Folster said.
Culinary Arts senior student Rose Folster
CONCORDIA IS MOVING FORWARD - ON BOTH PROJECTS!
Because of the bold faith of our early campaign participants and the confidence of our board and delegate leadership, we are pressing ahead with both the academic wing and the chapel-auditorium. The academic wing is already under construction and will be completed in phases over the next 20 months. Chapelauditorium work begins this summer, with completion by August 1, 2027.
By God's grace and through your generosity, we have reached $28.2 million in gifts and pledges. That’s more than 80% of our $34 million goal! This is a tremendous milestone and a reflection of hearts moved by the Holy Spirit. Every gift is an act of faith and an investment in students being formed in Christ for lives of service and leadership.
It’s no secret our current facilities do not reflect the excellence of the academic rigor, fine arts programming and worship that fills these spaces
each week. As strategic planning unfolded through 2023 and 2024, the sobering reality became clear: Meeting these needs would require an effort nearly four-times greater than any campaign in our history. We could have reduced the scope or done nothing. Neither option crossed our mind because we believed God was calling for a bold step and we witnessed the resolve of our community to meet this moment.
The greatest challenge has never been raising $34 million; it has been helping every member of our Concordia community see we each have a part to play. We’re now just $5.8 million from the finish line. The time has come for those in our community who have not yet stepped forward to make their commitment and move us across the finish line.
Thank you for your prayers, generosity and partnership in this
bold step of faith. We give all glory to God for what He has done, what He is doing and what He’ll do through our high school.
I invite you to be part of a historic moment. Prayerfully consider how God may be calling you to join this final phase. A three-year pledge at a meaningful level will help us complete the chapel-auditorium and finish this race strong.
In Christ, Jacob Pennekamp
To make your bold step or ask questions, use the envelope included or contact Chief Advancement Officer Matt Konow at mkonow@clhscadets.com.
ALUMNI Notes
1960s
1950s
Ruth Everson (Class of 1956) participated in the 2025 National Senior Games in Des Moines, Iowa, and received gold medals in the 5k and 10k road races, and the 5k power walk.
Rev. Dr. Kenneth Haugk (Class of 1963), founder of Stephen Ministries, has passed the baton to Rev. Dr. Justin Schlueter after 50 years as executive director. Going forward, Ken will serve as director of research.
1970s
John Knoblauch (Class of 1971) recently returned to Fort Wayne and is enjoying being back in the community. He’s especially looking forward to cheering on Fort Wayne FC this season and reconnecting with fellow alumni at CLHS basketball games this winter. John is eager to spend time with classmates and renew friendships.
Keith Ketzler (Class of 1974) and Greg Rehberg (Class of 1974) had an enjoyable and memorable lunch with their former CLHS coaches/teachers. Dr. Jim Braun, Larry Goeglein (Class of 1956), Jack Massucci and Bill Ihssen were all present.
After recently retiring from parish ministry, Bob Rossow (Class of 1976) has been appointed interim director of the Cross-Cultural Ministry Center at Concordia University Irvine. He and his wife, Kathy, recently celebrated their 45th wedding anniversary, and are looking forward to attending the Class of 1976 50th reunion.
ALUMNI
Paul Stebbe (Class of 1976) retired from GM in 2021 and is enjoying life with his wife, Karen, daughters, son-in-laws and six grandchildren. He has been actively helping Afghan refugee families acclimate to Michigan since 2021. He enjoys woodworking, kayaking and riding in his Camaro convertible.
Joanne Paul (Class of 1977) recently moved from Arlington, Massachusetts, where she was the head tennis coach at Wellesley College, to Northfield, Minnesota.
Kirk Rains (Class of 1977) is a retired military, law-enforcement, and public-safety professional with more than 40 years of service. He served 20 years in the U.S. Air Force, retiring in 1998, and 22 years with the King County Sheriff’s Office in Seattle, retiring in 2021. He currently works as a government contractor for the FAA, bringing extensive experience in safety, security, and leadership.
1980s
Keith Ledbetter (Class of 1987) runs Michigan’s largest construction trade school – the Southeast Michigan Construction Academy (SEMCA).
1990s
Debbie Mindedahl (Class of 1990) is currently living in Wildwood, Florida, and began serving as assistant cafeteria manager at the start of the 2025-26 school year, returning to her culinary roots after many years in health care. After caring for her longtime partner Jim during his courageous battle with cancer, she is now focusing on family and new beginnings. She stays busy coaching her grandson’s sports teams and enjoys time at the Florida Gulf Coast beaches, while also cherishing trips back to Indiana to visit family and friends.
2000s
Emily White (Class of 2006) and her husband Nick reside in Indianapolis, have two children, and love to travel and spend time with family. Nick is a sports broadcasting lecturer at Butler University and Emily has been in prosecution for the last decade, now strictly handling homicide cases.
Trent Neilson (Class of 2007) recently won (via his company, Neilson Design & Photography) in three categories of the Community Votes Fort Wayne 2025 awards: Silver in Photography; Gold in Graphic Design and Silver in Web Design.
Corey McSweeney (Class of 2008), audit and assurance director/ CPA with Katz, Sapper & Miller, was recently recognized as a member of Business Weekly’s Forty Under 40 Class of 2026.
2010s
Erin Martin (Class of 2011), director of retirement training and consumer education with Ash Brokerage, was recently honored as a member of Business Weekly’s Forty Under 40 Class of 2026.
Ryan Schleter (Class of 2012) was recently honored as Territory Manager of the Year for the leading global medical technology company Becton Dickinson (BD). Ryan resides with his wife, Candie, who serves as a nurse practitioner with Lutheran Cardiology.
ALUMNI Notes
2010s
Chad Hunter (Class of 2014), exterior representative and marketing specialist with Windows Doors & More, was recently recognized as a member of Business Weekly’s Forty Under 40 Class of 2026. Chad works alongside his father and brother, Trevor (Class of 2017), keeping the business family-owned while continuing the mission of taking care of homeowners, one project at a time.
Aleana Branigan (Class of 2017) is engaged to Gabriel Vohs (Class of 2017) as of June 2025.
Matthew Ruppert (Class of 2018) ran in the Boston Marathon on April 20, 2026 and finished 606th out of over 29,000 runners, averaging 5:55 min/mile. Matthew participated in both cross country and track during his time at CLHS.
Adam Gottschalk (Class of 2019) married Ellesyn Fritcha (Class of 2020) in January 2025.
2020s
Eduarda “Duda” Tartarella Nascimento (Class of 2021), a former international student from Brazil, cheerleader, and member of the National Honor Society, has been accepted to Saint Louis University School of Medicine. Her family shares their pride in her hard work, perseverance, and courage as she studied abroad, built new friendships, and navigated the challenges of COVID. They are deeply grateful for the Concordia community, whose support, opportunities, and encouragement helped Duda pursue her dream of attending medical school.
ALUMNUS INSPIRES AT HOME
Harvard autism researcher and CLHS alumnus Dr. Chris McDougle returns to inspire community.
Dr. Christopher “Chris” McDougle, a Concordia Lutheran High School Class of 1977 graduate, is an internationally recognized leader in autism research and treatment whose work has made a profound impact on individuals and families around the world. As director of the Lurie Center for Autism at Massachusetts General Hospital and Nancy Lurie Marks Professor of Psychiatry at Harvard Medical School, Dr. McDougle has spent more than 25 years advancing the understanding, diagnosis and treatment of autism spectrum disorders and other neurodevelopmental conditions across the lifespan.
In April, he returned to Fort Wayne to share his expertise through three speaking engagements hosted by Concordia Lutheran High School at the University of Saint Francis. There, he engaged community members, healthcare professionals, educators, and families, offering valuable insight into the latest developments in autism and related conditions.
The following day, Dr. McDougle spent time on Concordia’s campus, meeting with students, faculty, and staff. He spoke in multiple science classes, giving students firsthand
access to one of the foremost experts in his field, and participated in two Lunch & Learn sessions that fostered deeper conversation and connection within the school community.
Dr. McDougle’s visit was both inspiring and educational, serving as a powerful reminder of the impact Concordia alumni can have around the world – and at home. His time on campus enriched students and the broader Fort Wayne community through his knowledge, leadership, and enduring commitment to improving lives through autism research.
JROTC
HALL OF HONOR INDUCTEE
MR. DANIEL A. KRAMER, 1977
Raised on a family farm in northeastern Allen County, Indiana, Dan learned foundational life skills from his parents that helped shape his future. His father, Arnold, was a 1941 graduate of Concordia Lutheran High School. Continuing the family’s commitment to Lutheran education, Dan and his siblings
attended St. Paul’s Lutheran School and Concordia Lutheran High School.
At Concordia, Dan was active in choir and the JROTC program. As a cadet, he participated in combat drill, IDR drill, the rifle team and the “Snap Squad” exhibition drill team. He concluded his JROTC career as battalion commander under the guidance of Maj. Tom Agness and Sgt. Paul Miller, both of whom were instrumental in motivating cadets to reach their full potential. Dan also was heavily involved in 4-H, where the Junior Leadership Program helped prepare him for future responsibilities.
After high school, Dan attended an agricultural short course at Purdue
University before enrolling full time. He joined the Beta Sigma Psi fraternity, a Lutheran house with several fellow Concordia alumni. After earning a bachelor’s degree in agricultural economics, Dan began a career in agribusiness with Central Soya in Decatur, Indiana. He held various positions throughout the Midwest, specializing in cash grain trading and risk management. Dan spent more than 20 years with Central Soya and continued with its successor, Bunge North America, for 13 years. He concluded his career at Edon Farmers Cooperative, retiring as president and general manager. Dan credits Concordia and the JROTC program with influencing his professional success and strengthening his commitment to serving his community, church and family.
Dan and his wife, Melissa, have three children: Christianna, Gabriel and Kerrin. Gabriel and Kerrin also are Concordia graduates and currently serve as medical professionals.
JROTC student Katrina Fegley presents Hall of Honor award to Mr. Kramer.
