Eleven members of the faculty and staff retired during the 2024-25 academic year or will be retiring this summer. They have a combined total of 264 years of service to the college and their contributions are appreciated! Honored retirees include:
Stephen A. Bennett, Concordia Language Villages, 32 years
Greg Borgen, Cobber Bookstore, 10 years
Renée Duval, Concordia Language Villages, 23 years
Ann Hadrava, Concordia Language Villages, 20 years
Jane Indergaard, Nursing, 28 years
Bill Ishaug, Campus Events and Facilities Management, 19 years
Eric Johnson, Advancement, 19 years
Vicki R. Juven, Advancement, 24 years
Mark B. Lillehaugen, Business Office, 32 years
Ron Twedt, Offutt School of Business, 34 years
David A. Williams, Facilities Management, 24 years
Congratulations to all the retirees!
Stephen Bennett
Stephen Bennett has worked at Concordia Language Villages for 33 years.
“Steve Bennett has been a huge part of the maintenance team at Concordia Language Villages in Bemidji for 33 years. He is a doer and a calm, no-nonsense, suspender-wearing, bargain-shopping, taker-care-of-things, all the while entertaining those around him with his great sense of humor, quips, and puns. As a supervisor, he’s definitely of the Post-it note generation. We are grateful and fortunate that Steve has continued to help out parttime since retiring last summer, which really means we continue to access his wealth of institutional knowledge of the many nooks and crannies around the language villages’ campus. Thank you, Steve, for all you have contributed and the many ways in which you have made the language villages a better place!”
—
Martin Graefe, senior group director and Language Training Center director
Greg Borgen
Greg Borgen has worked at Concordia College in the Cobber Bookstore as the assistant store director of operations for 10 years.
Greg has enjoyed working with a very dedicated bookstore team that takes great pride in ensuring the bookstore operates successfully year after year. He values the teamwork and commitment that have been a constant in his role.
One of the most rewarding aspects of his time at Concordia has been being part of a team that truly cares about the students. Greg has been proud to work
hard alongside his colleagues to provide the resources students need to make their journey at Concordia both successful and enjoyable.
Once retired, Greg will miss working with his awesome bookstore team, including PJ, Liz, Diann, Becki, and all the student employees who contributed to the success of the store.
In retirement, Greg and his wife are planning to move to Gulf Shores, Alabama, at the end of July. They look forward to spending time with family, taking walks on the beach, and playing some golf.
“When the bookstore team reminisces about Greg’s first few days of employment at the bookstore, we wonder what on earth he must have thought. The bookstore had just completed a Point of Sale system upgrade the day prior and, as you can imagine, there were many things that no longer worked correctly or at all. Greg’s first few days at Concordia were filled with helping the bookstore team troubleshoot POS issues. This may not have been the start we envisioned for Greg, but the bookstore team knew pretty quickly from Greg’s quiet strength that he was going to be a fantastic addition to the team.
“We have been fortunate to have Greg be part of the bookstore team for 10 years. Greg leads by example and is always ready to step in and help whenever and wherever needed. In addition to Greg’s willingness to assist, he is tremendously kind, caring, and thoughtful.
“The Cobber Bookstore staff will definitely miss Greg when he retires in late July! We wish Greg much happiness and joy as he starts this next chapter in his life. Greg and his wife are planning to move to Alabama, happily leaving the snow and cold weather behind. They are looking forward to warmer weather, sand below their feet, and the time to play more golf.”
— PJ Hines, director of the Cobber Bookstore, and the Cobber Bookstore Team
Renée Duval
Renée Duval has worked in the Concordia Language Villages for 24 years, from 2001 to 2025.
During her time at Concordia, the most enjoyment Renée found in her work was the honor of working for an organization with a deep global understanding — one that reflects and upholds the values she holds dear.
Renée found her time at Concordia rewarding, particularly through the people she’s worked with, the friendships built, and the mission she shared with others.
Once retired, she will miss the privilege of collaborating
each day with deep thinkers — compassionate, caring individuals who have challenged, inspired, and helped shape her into a better person. Being surrounded by such a thoughtful and dedicated community has been one of the greatest gifts of her career.
In retirement, Renée plans to fully embrace her encore years. She looks forward to days filled with more time for family and friends, creativity, reading, gardening, travel, and most of all, the freedom to take each day as it comes.
“Renée is the consummate professional with an unwavering commitment to Concordia Language Villages. Her dedication to CLV is evident in her many years of service to the organization, always with a clear sense of focus and purpose in supporting the mission of inspiring courageous global citizens.
“Over her many years with CLV, Renée didn’t just help keep her supervisors organized and functioning. She ensured CLV as a whole was moving forward: making sure calendar invitations were sent, files could be found, listservs were up to date, Zoom videos were recorded and meeting notes were shared, events were organized, and National Advisory Council members and donors communicated with and cared for. She was an expert at organizing the myriad schedules and agendas that blend a huge variety of topics and cross many time zones to ensure the smooth operation of the villages.
“She brought to her work a problem-solving spirit and an ability to find solutions with grace and positivity. CLV is better because of you, Renée! We are grateful to have had the privilege of working alongside you.”
— Christine Schulze, Mary Maus Kosir, and Susan Larson, Concordia Language Villages
Ann Hadrava
Ann Hadrava has worked in the Concordia Language Villages for 20 years, from 2005 to 2025.
“What strikes me about Ann Hadrava and her work in Retail at CLV is that this was never just a job for her. Over the course of 20 years, Ann poured her heart into her work, and she touched many lives along the way. I am grateful to have had the privilege of working with her!”
— Jon Suomala, Concordia Language Villages
Jane Indergaard
Dr. Jane Indergaard has worked at Concordia College in the Nursing Department for 28 years — from 1997 to 2015 as a regular adjunct professor and from 2015 to the present as a full-time faculty member and associate professor.
Jane has thoroughly enjoyed her work at Concordia, especially the vibrancy and energy of the college. She has been passionate about helping to launch the next generation of nurses year after year. Her time in the classroom and interactions with students have been particularly meaningful to her. Walking alongside her students on their vocational journey and witnessing their growth in knowledge, skill, and passion has been a true joy.
Jane reflects on her time at Concordia with pride, particularly regarding the nursing department’s recognition as the number one nursing program in Minnesota for several years. She is proud of the hard work and dedication of her colleagues. Teaching both traditional and accelerated track students has been
deeply rewarding, and she has also cherished the opportunity to combine her passions for travel and promoting behavioral health awareness through the development of the Interdisciplinary London Exploration Seminar. Seeing a different country through the eyes of her students has been a unique and enriching experience.
Once retired, Jane will deeply miss the inspiration she receives from passionate colleagues and students. She will also miss developing classes and creating innovative curriculum.
In retirement, she plans to take the summer off to recharge and decompress. She hopes to slow down, change pace, and spend more time with her grandkids and extended family, while enjoying travel adventures with her spouse. Jane looks forward to revisiting longlost passions that have been put on hold over the years. With an open mind and heart, she is excited to see where this next chapter in life will take her and feeling incredibly blessed by the years that have come before.
“Jane, I want to express my sincerest appreciation and gratitude to you as you embark on your retirement from Concordia College as a nursing faculty member.
“You were a part of the Nursing Department when I first started with Concordia in 2006, and I had the pleasure of sharing an office with you. At that time, you were serving as an adjunct faculty member in the Nursing Department, teaching a myriad of courses which really spoke to the breadth of your nursing experience.
“I appreciated your mentorship during those early years in the department as I was very new to the academic setting. Fortunately for me, we had worked together in the clinical setting in the ICU at St. Luke’s Hospital.
“I have truly learned so much from you as a colleague in both the clinical and academic setting! You have been the ultimate colleague — always willing to share knowledge and strategies. We will miss you in the Nursing Department and at the college! Your contributions have been vast and immeasurable! Best of luck to you as you look toward retirement. With Appreciation, Jack”
— Dr. Jack E. Rydell, chair and professor of the Nursing Department
Bill Ishaug
Bill Ishaug worked with Campus Events and Facilities Management at Concordia College for 20 years.
“Thank you for your 20 years of service to Concordia! Your dedication, counselling, customer service and attention-to-detail that went into every event was felt by all. Your ability to mentor students and employees alike was nothing short of outstanding. It was my pleasure to have worked with you for many years and you will be missed!”
— Robert Smith, assistant director of Facilities Operations
Eric Johnson
Eric Johnson has worked at Concordia College in the Alumni Relations/Advancement department for 19 years and 6 months.
Eric has greatly enjoyed the opportunity to advance Concordia’s mission by advocating for support from alumni, donors, and friends. He especially appreciated being part of a team that gets to share the college’s story over and over. Additionally, he has loved being a part of the lives of students over the nearly 20 years of his career at Concordia.
One of the most rewarding aspects of his time at Concordia has been the annual process of preparing for and executing all the events during homecoming week. Eric found it particularly fulfilling to work with the student
committee for nearly a year and then, alongside the staff, help make the celebration a reality for the hundreds of alumni and students who came together to celebrate.
Once retired, Eric will miss the people the most — the people on the alumni team, in the advancement division, as well as the students, alumni, parents, donors, and friends of the college with whom he had the privilege to work. It’s clear that the relationships he built over the years hold a special place in his heart.
In retirement, Eric looks forward to volunteering at the Roger Maris Cancer Center, traveling with his wife, Michelle, reading, working out, and taking time to explore what else God has in store for him.
“Eric Johnson has dedicated 19 years to Concordia College, leaving a lasting impact on the advancement division and the Cobber community. A proud 1982 alumnus, he returned in 2005 after a distinguished legal career. At Concordia, he held multiple roles, culminating in his leadership as director of Alumni Relations.
“Eric’s passion for the college was evident in his work. Eric strengthened traditions like Move-In Day, Homecoming, and Family Weekend, launched the SALT (Students and Alumni Linked Together) program, and worked closely with the National Alumni Board to advance key initiatives.
“Colleagues describe him as dynamic, passionate, and deeply dedicated. Beyond his strategic contributions, Eric infused campus life with energy and humor. Whether using a megaphone at the homecoming parade, leading ‘Release the Beast’ at the bonfire, or mentoring students and colleagues, he made every moment more vibrant.
“As one student put it, ‘Eric makes you feel at home wherever you are.’ As he enters retirement, Eric leaves a legacy of excellence, humor, and devotion to Concordia. Congratulations, Eric!”
— Brent Johnson, director of Advancement Services
Vicki R. Juven
Vicki Juven has worked in Advancement at Concordia College for 24 years.
Vicki has especially enjoyed the people — coworkers, donors, and the community across campus. It’s been rewarding to work in the Advancement Office and understand all that goes into fundraising — especially the relationship that gets built. She had the opportunity to see a couple of fundraising campaigns be completed from start to finish. The end result of new or improved buildings, campus improvements, and the many benefits to students, faculty, and staff was very rewarding, and everyone on campus can be proud of their role in this work and the work of the Advancement Office.
Since retiring, Vicki has missed the people she worked with — those in the Advancement Office, across campus, and the donors who would call or stop in the office and those she would see at events.
Plans for retirement, she thought, included slowing down — but time gets filled with different life activities, so she hasn’t yet experienced the slowing down part! Traveling is definitely in her future plans.
“After decades of service, countless Board of Regents books, and an untold number of friendly calendar reminders, Vicki Juven retired last fall, leaving behind an incredible legacy in the advancement division and across campus.
“She was the ultimate executive wrangler, keeping multiple vice presidents (and their chaotic schedules) in line, ensuring our letters were grammatically flawless, and — most impressively — laughing at all our jokes, regardless of quality.
“Vicki was the quiet force that made things happen — planning team gatherings, shepherding important projects to completion, and being the listening ear and steady presence we all relied on. She brought kindness, curiosity, and care to everything she did, making everyone feel valued and heard.
While the office isn’t the same without her, we remain deeply grateful for the many ways she shaped our team. The entire advancement division hopes Vicki enjoys her retirement — she has more than earned it!”
— Brent Johnson, director of Advancement Services
Mark B. Lillehaugen
Mark B. Lillehaugen has worked at Concordia College in the Business Office for 33 years, from 1992 to 2025.
During his time at Concordia, the most enjoyment he found in his work was the honor of serving the institution and its mission. As a student at Concordia in the early 1980s, Mark valued the excellent education he received, both inside and outside the classroom. As the controller for over three decades, he appreciated the opportunity to work alongside dedicated colleagues who were also committed to supporting and advancing the college’s mission.
Mark found his time at Concordia rewarding, especially when facing challenges related to finances and resource stewardship. One of his most gratifying tasks was successfully completing clean audits each
year in a timely manner.
Once retired, Mark will miss the people he worked with most — the hardworking, dedicated colleagues who focused on providing an excellent place for students. He will also miss the access to musical, athletic, and theatrical performances on campus.
In retirement, Mark plans to spend more time with his sons, who live on the East Coast. He and his wife, Carolyn, look forward to traveling both within the U.S. and abroad, and to spending even more time biking, skiing, hiking, and reading. They’re excited to nurture relationships with family, friends, and many fellow Cobbers in their new townhome in Bloomington. Mark also plans to volunteer in places like Yellowstone National Park, as well as state and local parks.
“Today we celebrate the incredible career and well-deserved retirement of Mark Lillehaugen, who has served Concordia College with distinction for more than 32 years.
“Mark’s journey with Concordia actually began long before his professional career here. He graduated from Concordia with honors in 1983 with a degree in accounting and English. From there, he embarked on a career that would take him through a variety of impactful roles: first as an accountant at Peat Marwick and Mitchell, then as controller at Oregon Catholic Press, and later as director of business affairs at Waldorf College. Each of these roles sharpened his skills and prepared him for what would become a remarkable legacy here at Concordia.
“In 1992, Mark returned to his alma mater as controller, and over the decades, he has been the steady hand guiding Concordia’s financial operations. From managing budgets and bond issuances to coordinating audits and leading major system conversions, Mark’s expertise has been pivotal to the college’s success. But his impact goes far beyond numbers. He has built meaningful relationships across campus, serving as a trusted advisor and collaborative partner on key committees focused on planning, sustainability, and accreditation. His fingerprints can be found all over this campus.
“Outside of the office, Mark is a true adventurer and servant leader. Whether cycling, skiing, hiking, or volunteering with Yellowstone National Park’s Roosevelt Rendezvous Program, Mark brings the same sense of dedication and passion to everything he does. It is this spirit of care, adventure, and service that has defined not just his career, but his life.
“It is our pleasure to celebrate not just Mark’s accomplishments, but the countless ways he has enriched our college and our lives. Mark, thank you for everything and for the incredible legacy you leave behind.”
— Rachel Clarke, vice president for Finance and Administration and treasurer
Ron Twedt
Ron Twedt has worked at Concordia in the Offutt School of Business for 34 years, from 1991 to 2025.
During his time at Concordia, the most enjoyment Ron found in his work was being part of a clear and meaningful mission that is known and supported by staff, students, and alumni. As a faculty member, it was rewarding to connect students to a discipline and profession that is important, challenging, and enjoyable.
Ron found his time at Concordia rewarding, particularly through his involvement in the student tax preparation service, which connected the school with the community and provided a helpful service. He also found it gratifying to engage with students as they learned and grew, taking on challenges with determination.
Once retired, Ron will miss the people the most — the talented, accomplished, supportive, generous, and fun faculty and staff colleagues he has worked with over the years. He will also miss the energy of being around students as they bring their talent, focus, and curiosity to their time at Concordia.
In retirement, Ron plans to spend time with family and friends, travel at any time of the year, dive into his backlog of unread books, and continue exercising in activities his body can still do (though he’s starting to give up on playing second base for the Twins). He also expects to stay or get involved with organizations and activities where he might have something to contribute.
“Congratulations on your well-deserved retirement! Your guidance, wisdom, and friendship have made a lasting impact on my life, both professionally and personally. Thank you for helping when we first arrived here, for your guidance at Concordia, for believing in me, and for showing me what true kindness looks like. You’ll be deeply missed, but I’m excited for this next chapter of rest, baseball, tax, and everything you love most.”
— Dr. Jorge Scarpin, chair of the Offutt School of Business and associate professor of accounting
“Ron has blessed students and the business department/school for 33 years. His passion for accounting, particularly tax accounting, is legendary. He is well respected by all who come in contact with him and will also be remembered for a nifty sense of humor. His presence will certainly be missed — however, his friendship will continue.”
— Chris Mason, dean of the Offutt School of Business and associate professor of finance
David Williams
David Williams has worked at Concordia in the Facility Management department for 24 years.
David has greatly enjoyed the people he worked with during his time at Concordia. One of the most rewarding aspects of his time at Concordia has been getting to know the staff.
Once retired, he will miss the people the most. In retirement, David plans to ride his motorcycle.
“Thank you for your 20-plus years of service.”
— Tim Brown, plant operations and maintenance manager