Concordia St. Paul Magazine Winter 2023

YOUR UNIVERSITY FOR LIFE

BEGINNING THE JOURNEY OF A LIFETIME PAGE 2 A LEGACY FOR LIFE PAGE 4

CONCORDIA UNIVERSITY, ST. PAUL 1282 Concordia Ave St. Paul, MN 55104 (651) 641-8810

1(866) GROW-CSP one.csp.edu

@concordiastpaul @concordiastpaulalumni

publisher

Office of University Advancement editor

Billy Schultz, BA ‘08, MA ‘11

editorial board

Dr. Colleen Arendt

Drew Deas

Chris Eilitz, MA ‘03

Dr. Oluwatoyin Akinde Fakuajo

Loc Luong, BA ‘17

Rhonda (Behm) Palmersheim, BA ‘88

design and layout

Upswing Creative St. Paul, Minn.

printing

Ideal Printers Inc. St. Paul, Minn.

About Us

Founded in 1893, Concordia University, St. Paul is a comprehensive liberal arts university that honors Christ and welcomes all to discover and engage their purpose for life, career and service.

Mission

The mission of Concordia University, St. Paul, a university of The Lutheran Church–Missouri Synod, is to prepare students for thoughtful and informed living, for dedicated service to God and humanity and for the enlightened care of God’s creation, all within the context of the Christian Gospel.

© 2023 Concordia University, St. Paul

FROM THE EDITOR

Happy new year! I hope you had a wonderful Christmas and holiday season as we look forward to all that is in store for us this year.

The theme for this issue, “Your University for Life,” is more than just words on a page; it is an ethos that carries through all we do here. We want each person who encounters Concordia St. Paul—whether a student, alum, family member, employee, volunteer, donor, or community member—to see Concordia as an influential part of their life and have a life-long affinity to this community.

When I think of CSP as my university for life, I think about the people who deeply influence and care for me, the lifelong relationships that have come from this place. I think about the sense of calling and discovery of my gifts and passions that have carried me through to this point in my life and career. I think about the ways I’ve grown holistically in every aspect of my life.

I also think about the continued opportunities I have, not just as an employee, but as an alumnus and donor, to continue to remain involved, connected, and to give back in thankfulness for what I’ve been given. I know that there are numerous resources at CSP for continued learning and growth, personally and professionally. There are more alumni to network with, more events to attend, more memories to make, more ways to give back. I’m excited to see my lifetime connection to CSP unfold in the future.

What about you? What is your lifelong connection to Concordia St. Paul?

WE WANT TO HEAR YOUR STORY!

Tell us how CSP is your university for life by heading to the link below or scanning the QR code. By sharing your story, you’ll be entered into a drawing for CSP swag*.

bit.ly/cspforlife

* Deadline to enter is March 1, 2023

However you answer these questions, I hope the stories that follow will inspire you as you think about CSP as your university for life.

BILLY SCHULTZ | BA '08, MA '11 Editor, Concordia St. Paul Magazine

BEGINNING THE JOURNEY OF A LIFETIME

Three years ago, in fall 2020, CSP debuted its first living learning community (LLC), a cohort of students who would live in the same residence hall, participate in extracurricular programming, and take at least two classes together. The inaugural LLC, the Jackson Business Leadership community, was so successful that CSP added the Science & Service Integrated Learning Community in 2021, and a third in fall 2022, the Christian Thought & Leadership Living Learning Community.

As Jake Wakem, Director of Student Life Education and Leadership, explains, LLCs bring different aspects of university life together, such as residential and student life and academics. The goal is to provide a high-quality experience that leads to students graduating and pursuing their professional and personal callings with additional skills and competencies.

Students report finding “value, applicability, and overall a higher percentage of ‘tie’ to the university, the desire to come back, the desire to finish their four years, and then obviously for our hope to get that dream job after college and to feel prepared for that step,” Wakem details.

Drew Deas, the first year seminar instructor for this fall’s LLC, agrees: “If students connect or join something, they’re more likely to come back their sophomore year. Get involved in some way shape or form, you increase your chances of graduating.”

The communities are so popular with students that CSP has had to institute waitlists. Faculty are also invigorated by the success of and potential for LLCs and are sharing ideas for new ones with Wakem.

This fall’s inaugural cohort of the Christian Thought & Leadership LLC includes eleven students who are living in Hyatt Village and taking the first year seminar course as well as an Old Testament theology course together this semester. Students and staff rave about their experiences.

For church work student Robert Finch, applying to the Christian Thought & Leadership LLC was an easy decision. “I rejoiced more that I was accepted to the dorm than when I was accepted to CSP,” he shares. And, his experience is “exactly what I thought it would be, even better... The classes are fantastic. You can tell the faculty genuinely care about their students.” Another highlight for Finch is his classmates: “I really love the people. I’ve been set up with an amazing suitemate, able to become friends with people in my pod.”

Sofia Sandcork, whose parents and brother also attended CSP, found the Christian Thought & Leadership LLC appealing because she liked the idea of being “surrounded by like minded people who want to serve, and to know right away that I have something in common with the people living in the pod and that faith would be the center of this community.”

Sandcork’s comments echo what Deas sees in his experience working with students across the university: “A recurring theme I hear is that many students will say they got on campus and found people like them, they walked through the halls and thought, my people are here.”

These meaningful relationships, combined with the shared academic and living experiences, empower students as they navigate the college experience and prepare for their future vocations. Even after one semester, the impact is palpable for students in the Christian Thought & Leadership LLC.

Finch concludes, “This is exactly where God wanted me to be.”

STORY: Dr. Colleen Arendt, Associate Professor of Communication Studies

PHOTOS: Courtney Place, Digital and Social Media Manager Drew Deas, Editorial Board Member

A LEGACY FOR LIFE

When Rev. Vern, HS ‘55, JC ‘57 and Betty (Lorenz), JC ‘58 Gundermann met on the campus of then Concordia College, they likely would not have imagined that their family legacy would continue six decades later. Nor would they have realized how significantly Concordia would impact the life of their family.

According to their son, Tom—Concordia’s university pastor—Vern and Betty met during the first weekend of the 1956-57 school year when Vern was one of the freshmen orientation leaders and Betty was a first-year student. Vern wanted to be a pastor and was beginning his sixth year at Concordia; he had completed four

years in high school and one in junior college. Betty came to CSP to study in the Lutheran teacher program. They married in 1961, and after Vern was ordained in 1963, they lived and served together in Iowa, Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Missouri.

While none of Vern and Betty’s four children attended CSP, Tom did serve as campus ministry associate for a year in the late 1990s. During that year, Tom met Amy Schaffer, BA ‘99. Later, they began dating and eventually married.

Amy studied in the Director of Christian Outreach program, and was actively involved in the Concordia Mission Society coordinating mission trips, service opportunities, and Bible studies. Along with some of her friends, Amy was instrumental in establishing Knollapalooza, an annual music festival (which continues today, albeit in a different format).

Following graduation in 1999, Amy served as campus ministry associate, and then worked for a few years in the Oswald Hoffman School of Christian Outreach (now Hoffman Institute). Tom attended seminary and was ordained in 2003. After a decade of pastoral ministry at congregations in Minnesota and New York, CSP called Tom to serve as University Pastor in 2013. Excited to return to CSP and serve the community here, he admits his decision “literally took about thirty seconds.”

Amy felt the same way about coming back to CSP. “[W]e were thrilled to come back and raise our family in the Lexington-Hamline neighborhood near campus and watch them benefit from so many wonderful mentors in and around the CSP community,” she explains.

With their dad as CSP’s pastor, Tom and Amy’s three kids spent a significant amount of time on campus while growing up. Despite their positive experiences, the two oldest, Kayla and Noah, had their “sights set on other places,” Amy shares. As each of them made their college choices and ultimately decided to come to CSP, Amy recalls that she and Tom were “shocked” but excited.

Kayla, a senior music education and Lutheran Classroom Teacher major, chose CSP because of the location, relationships she already had, and the fit of the academic programs. “[T]he music and theater department was exactly what I was looking for,” she explains.

Noah, a sophomore music composition major, also believes CSP was the right choice. “CSP has always felt like home,” he affirms. “It’s a small enough school that I can really know my professors and be involved in multiple areas.”

Kayla and Noah are deeply involved in the life of CSP’s St. Paul campus. Both serve as resident advisors, Kayla in Hyatt Village (with the Christian Thought & Leadership Living Learning Community) and Noah in Wollaeger Hall. They are also both involved in a number of musical ensembles and theatrical productions.

Most poignantly, though, they enjoy serving in ministry alongside their dad through student-led evening chapels and other ministry opportunities. “I’ve learned a lot about ministry and leadership from him,” Noah explains.

“Sometimes I get a glimpse of my grandfather on campus through my father,” confides Kayla.

As they reflect on their family legacy, the Gundermanns express deep love and gratitude for the impact CSP has had on the life of their family. “My faith life was influenced by an array of caring people, both fellow students and those employed by CSP, who daily lived out their calling as disciples of Jesus,” Amy explains.

“It's a privilege to be at a school that so much of my family has been a part of…we live and breathe CSP,” Kayla says. “The network and experiences that CSP gave the adults around me when I was growing up left a huge imprint on who I've become.”

The Gundermann name lives on at CSP in yet another way. After Vern passed away in 2016, memorial gifts to CSP were used to support CSP’s annual Reformation lecture, which was then named the Vern Gundermann Reformation Heritage Lecture Series. Gifts to supports this lecture series can be made at one.csp.edu/give

STORY: Billy Schultz, BA '08, MA '11, Assistant to the President for Communications

PHOTOS: Courtesy of the Gundermann family and CSP archives.

RESILIENCE FOR LIFE

Do you, or someone you know, feel like sometimes you cannot thrive amidst stresses and challenges? Would you benefit from a stronger sense of resilience so that you and others can flourish?

Higher levels of resilience help people handle stress, adversity, conflict, and trauma more effectively. While universally valuable, times of crisis, worry, fear, and uncertainty underscore the importance of resiliencebased approaches in academic and workplace settings. Resilience is key to overcoming life’s challenges and attaining positive outcomes.

For instance, throughout the pandemic, many people have experienced an increase of worry, fear, uncertainty, loneliness, depression, anxiety, self-doubt, change, and a host of other manifestations. These experiences can negatively affect emotional, physical, behavioral, and social health. When left unchecked and unaddressed, stressors can undermine concentration, communication skills, decision-making, and problem-solving abilities, all of which decrease workplace and academic performance and productivity.

Personal resilience can be promoted by focusing on holistic wellness. Implementing healthy practices (e.g., diet, exercise, and sleep), improved stress management abilities, positive social interactions, and engaging in optimistic and hopeful thinking are some ways to enhance one’s own resilience.

Organizations that have implemented resilience-based practices and approaches typically observe improved employee retention, teamwork, cohesion, and even profits. Leaders and managers should consider how they promote resilience in the workplace. This can be done by fostering engagement and connectedness through both in-person events and virtual platforms and cultivating a culture of teamwork, education, flexibility, support, and overall health and wellness.

A focus on building resilience in personal, academic, and workplace settings has been linked to enhanced performance, productivity, and well-being. Thus, organizational leaders, policy makers, and educators are strongly encouraged to become knowledgeable about resilience and enhance existing policies, procedures, and practices to reflect a resilience-informed mindset.

KEY TAKE-AWAY POINTS PERTAINING TO THE TOPIC OF RESILIENCE:

Resilience can be defined as the ability to adapt and overcome adverse consequences such as hardship, tragedy, and trauma, and is sometimes referred to as hardiness or grit.

Resilient people have the ability to find ways to grow in response to difficulties and struggles; they learn from previous experiences and use this information to prepare and respond to future situations.

The goal of resilience-based leadership is to not only weather crises, but become a stronger organization that adapts effectively to adversity and promotes innovation.

Resilience-based approaches within workplace settings typically foster a culture of teamwork, learning, flexibility, and support, with welldefined roles and organizational structures.

Careful consideration of diverse responses and their potential impacts is an important characteristic of organizations embracing a resiliencebased mindset.

The modeling of resilience by leaders within an organization can help encourage the development of resilience by other employees, faculty, and students.

STORY: Jerrod Brown, Ph.D., M.A., M.S., M.S., M.S., Assistant Professor, Program Director, Master of Arts degree in Human Services.

FOSTERING LIFELONG LEARNING

Reasons for earning a graduate degree vary, but a common theme among CSP graduate students is a desire to use education to advance their career goals. We spoke with three current graduate students about their experiences in CSP's graduate programs to learn how furthering their education impacts their career and life trajectories.

SRAVANTHI PASALA CAROLYN FITZPATRICK TIM HUNT

Sravanthi Pasala is a student in CSP’s Masters in IT Management program. Originally hailing from Hyderabad, India, Pasala sought a graduate program that she felt could advance her career. Primarily, she looked for a program with both technical and managerial elements in its curriculum.

CSP appealed to Pasala because of its mission statement and commitment to faith and service. “It’s a complete package for any student who wants to grow as an individual, both professionally and personally,” she says.

For her plans after CSP, Pasala already secured a job at US Bank and has the long-term goal of becoming a technical manager. Beyond that, she hopes to start an organization that can financially help students and orphans with their educational and faith journeys.

Carolyn FitzPatrick, MAEd ‘20, is a special education teacher currently studying in the Doctor of Education (EDD) program. She was teaching in Minneapolis schools when her cousin recommended CSP’s Master of Arts in Education program. After completing that program, FitzPatrick decided to continue her education by pursuing her doctorate. The online format of the EDD was especially helpful as she moved to the Washington, DC area to continue her career.

FitzPatrick appreciates the smaller setting at CSP where she is able to get to know her professors, especially in contrast to the larger school she attended for her undergraduate degree. She also finds that what she learns as a student is incredibly practical and applicable to her everyday life as a teacher. Moreover, she raves about the flexibility of her program. “It’s realistic for my crazy schedule as a teacher,” she shares.

Most of all, FitzPatrick sees her time at CSP preparing her for whatever her future may be. As a younger educator, she emphasizes the leadership skills she is learning as she looks toward her current and future opportunities. She says, “[this program] has made me more confident in what I am doing.”

Tim Hunt is the Community Relations Coordinator for the Roseville Police Department (RPD) and a Masters of Strategic Communications student. Before joining the RPD, Hunt was an airport police officer for three years. Toward the latter part of his time at the airport, he became a “quasimedia relations person,” which involved photo and video work for the department.

In part, Hunt’s experience at the airport piqued his interest in furthering his skills in communications and public relations, ultimately deciding that a graduate degree in Strategic Communications from CSP was the best path forward.

Hunt highlights the real-world applications of his graduate program. Specifically, he notes the value of learning from his cohort members’ experiences, as everyone in the program is at different points in their careers. Additionally, Tim loves being able to translate what he is doing in the classroom into his work. For instance, he recently created a crisis communication plan for the RPD through his Crisis Communication Management course.

In the future, Hunt wants to be in a leadership position with an organization where he can teach people how to effectively communicate and brand themselves. One of his biggest takeaways from the program so far is this: “If you want to effectively lead, you first and foremost have to be an effective communicator.”

PHOTOS: Courtesy of interviewees

STORY: Evan Galchutt, '24

FOR THE LIFE OF THE CHURCH

From its founding days, Concordia St. Paul has served the church by providing workers for congregations and schools throughout The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS). While xcthis was CSP’s sole focus over the first seven decades of its existence, the University remains committed to this important work1

1 Prof. Oswald Overn’s A History of Concordia College notes that the memorial to the 1893 synodical convention which requested a new school in the Twin Cities included both church work and non-church work students: “The synod is requested to establish a school in the district where future teachers and ministers can receive the earlier-years of their education. The plan is shown to be educationally feasible, and the wish is expressed that students who do not intend to enter the professional service of the church may also attend.” (5)

PREPARING STUDENTS

Seeing the real need to prepare more workers for congregations, schools, and other ministries within the LCMS, Concordia established its Church Work Tuition Guarantee in the fall of 2021. Now in the second year of the guarantee (and first year where pre-seminary and predeaconess students pay zero tuition), CSP’s church work population grew 42% year over year.

“Our bold action with the Church Work Tuition Guarantee is recognized throughout the LCMS as a deep commitment to the church’s growth and future,” shares President Brian Friedrich. “I continue to be amazed at the positive comments I receive from church leaders, church workers, laypersons, alumni and friends of CSP.”

CSP’s Associate Vice President for Faith and Ministry, Rev. Dr. Mark Koschmann, believes that the university’s church worker preparation is unparalleled. “CSP is an ideal university for students preparing for church vocations because of the commitment CSP has made to its surrounding multiethnic, urban community, and consistently proclaims God’s Word of promise to all its students and the surrounding neighborhoods,” he says.

Concordia also equips students to serve in the life of the church beyond those looking to serve full-time. Through a program like the Solus Christus Fellows, for example, students in any major or program gather weekly with their peers to study and discuss theological topics and explore how God calls them to various vocations in which to serve.

A recent alum, Alhrik Schommer, BA ‘21, was greatly impacted by his time in Solus Christus and theology classes. Schommer works full-time in the financial sector, but also leads the junior high group at King of Kings Lutheran Church in Roseville, Minn.

“Taking theology classes while having a business major allowed for me to see my vocation as something more than a job, but instead something that conjoins my various circles of life rather than separates [them],” he shares.

EXTENDING THE REACH

Just as the University invests in preparing students to serve the church, it is deeply committed to ensuring it is a resource and partner for the church at-large. The goal is “enriching the ministry of the local church,” Koschmann says.

Now in its third year, the Center for Biblical Studies continues to serve a growing number of God’s people through seminars and workshops that are held online and virtually. More than 350 individuals have attended at least one event, representing 33 of 35 LCMS Districts plus a number of other Lutheran denominations.

Concordia St. Paul partnered with Concordia Seminary, St. Louis on a number of occasions in the past year: the University sponsored the Winter 2022 issue of the Concordia Journal, partnered with the seminary to present a continuing education course titled "Missional Leadership in the Urban Context", and served as one of the lead sponsors for the seminary’s annual Multiethnic Symposium under the theme “Rise and Enter the City: The Hopeful Church in the Multiethnic City.”

At the 2022 LCMS Youth Gathering, CSP was one of the event’s top sponsors and provided a Gathering Bible for each one of the 20,000 participants. CSP was also wellrepresented by faculty and staff who served in a variety of capacities at the Gathering.

DRIVEN BY THE GOSPEL

Koschmann reiterates that CSP has much to offer our students and the broader church. “Concordia’s Lutheran ethos can build up resiliency, tenacity, and courage among its students,” he affirms. “By addressing the problems of the world straight on, Concordia demonstrates its integrity and its deep and abiding hope by trusting in the salvific work of Jesus Christ.”

This Gospel focus—and how it plays out in all areas of life—propels Concordia forward and enables the University to impact the life of the church and beyond. As CSP does this, Friedrich sees God at work everywhere. “I continue to be humbled and astounded by what God is doing in this place,” he says.

STORY: Billy Schultz, BA '08, MA '11, Assistant to the President for Communications

OUR UNIVERSITY FOR LIFE

We asked longtime Concordia St. Paul employees who are alumni to share why CSP is their university for life.

Here’s what they had to say:

JONATHAN BREITBARTH, BA ‘97 Director of Computer Services, Head Cross Country Coach Service to CSP: 24 years

"I have seen the multiple lives that CSP has touched over get reminded of that impact any time I am out in the community and someone says, ‘My friend went to CSP. They had a great experience and grew as a person.’ It is the mission focus of CSP that continues to fuel my

Assoc. Vice President for Alumni and Constituent Relations

Service to CSP: 21 years

“CSP is where I really learned who I was, what motivated me and what my passions were. I made "life" long friends here who continue to challenge me to be the truest version of myself, who give me grace and remain true even through the downturns of life. God planted these lifelong friends in the place he knew we would all blossom, grow and find one another.”

Professor of Education

Service to CSP: 24.5 years

“Of course, I love the students and wonderful faculty at CSP (both now AND when I was a student here). However, the very best reason is being able to experience and share the joy of Christ's love FREELY and openly in classes and in everything we do at Concordia!”

WALTHER, BA ‘89

Associate Professor of IT Management

Service to CSP: 36 years

“Concordia St. Paul has always been a place where "Christ is honored and all are welcome." Concordia has truly helped me to "discover and engage my purpose for life, career, and service." Each day, my love for CSP grows fonder. Each day, I find out more about how Jesus can use a missionary’s kid from Japan to help our exploding international student base find their own unique strengths and distinct God-given purpose.”

Director of Student Success

Service to CSP: 33 years

“I've had the privilege of seeing how education alters a person's life. Concordia's student-focused mission allows students to realize their purpose, strengths, and abilities and leave Concordia with the confidence to accomplish their goals. I've been blessed to have the opportunity to support students in this mission.”

WELLENS,

Program Director of Hand In Hand Child Care Center

Service to CSP: 36 years

“I have always loved working at Concordia because my professional philosophy aligns well with that of the University. I like that Concordia still feels like the school I attended almost 40 years ago and yet works so hard to be current, relevant, progressive and innovative. I am blessed to be able to spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ with young children and their families on a daily basis and I also really enjoy working with the students of Concordia. I have formed some very strong bonds with these young adults over the years.”

Dean, College of Education and Humanities

Service to CSP: 27 years

"I learned about life and ministry while a student at CSP. My formation as a Lutheran educator began during these years and was far more impactful than I anticipated. Serving God and His people has been delightful.”

LONN MALY, BA ‘81

RHONDA (BEHM)

PALMERSHEIM, BA ‘88

DR. MICHELE (RODEMEYER)

PICKEL, BA ‘76

DR. JOEL NOZOMU

SCHUESSLER, BA ‘82

GRETCHEN (TRAFTON)

LACEY (GOLDHAMMER)

BA ‘84, MA ’04

YOUR LIFETIME RESOURCES

Whether you are a new alum or have been living out your vocation for decades, Concordia is here to support you as you navigate through life and career. Below are a number of resources that we offer to you as part of your free membership in the Concordia St. Paul Alumni Association.

THE CAREER CHAMPION NETWORK: a directory that connects CSP students, staff, faculty and alumni to exchange valuable career insights, note internship opportunities and share career information

RAFTR: a social network to connect with fellow alums and stay informed about CSP happenings

OFFICE OF CAREER DEVELOPMENT: CSP’s trained and friendly staff can walk you through job transitions and help you pursue your goals; Career Development also provides a job board called Handshake, which is free to access

LEARNING HUB: access to convocations, lectures, our alumni bookshelf, and alumni business directory

SCHOLARSHIPS: we offer awards to alumni pursuing another CSP degree as well as family members of alumni

Connect with fellow

alumni

Access all of your Concordia St. Paul Alumni Association membership perks at one.csp.edu/welcome

HOMECOMING

Homecoming 2022 was held September 30-October 2, 2022 and featured a number of events, including the Alumni Awards Banquet, Athletic Hall of Fame Induction, CSP football and volleyball games, and Comet’s Carnival.

ALUMNI ASSOCIATION

Awards 2022

ALUMNI DISTINGUISHED SERVICE

Rev. Dr. Robert Holst, HS '54, JC '56

Rev. James Laatsch, AA '61

Jamie Walker, BA '07, MBA '19

EDUCATOR OF THE YEAR

DeWayne Combs, Jr., BA '99

Rebecca (Wiegert) Fritz, BA '88

Michele (Rodemeyer) Pickel, BA '76

SERVICE TO THE CHURCH

Paul Otte, BA '69

David Saving, BA '78

Denise Sprengeler, BA '81

Rev. Dr. Larry Stoterau, AA '67

ATHLETIC HALL of FAME

CONCORDIA UNIVERSITY, ST. PAUL

2022 INDUCTEES

Megan (Carlson) Brown, BA ‘12

Bryan Lippincott, BBA ‘12

Katie (Anderson) McKenzie, BS ‘12

John Sieling, BA ‘73

Jacquelyn Hauser Snodgrass, BA ‘09

Stanley Tischer, BA ‘81

Diahn Zeon, Jr., BA ‘12

To learn more about CSP's alumni awards, visit one.csp.edu/awards.

CELEBRATING DECEMBER GRADUATES

Concordia conferred degrees to nearly 400 graduating students at our December 2022 commencement ceremonies in St. Paul and Portland. Congratulations to these newest members of the Concordia St. Paul Alumni Association!

STEWARDSHIP FOR LIFE

In the previous issue of the Concordia St. Paul Magazine, Rev. Jim AA ‘61 and Karen Laatsch shared about the joy they receive from giving abundantly and how that joy is much greater than simple happiness. In this issue, they talk about how a lifetime of stewardship has allowed them to give joyfully.

Jim grew up on a farm in the unincorporated community of Caroline, Wisc., about 45 miles northwest of Green Bay. One of eight children, his family was impoverished, so much so that they did not have a refrigerator, a bicycle, a baseball glove, a TV set or a telephone when he was growing up.

When it came time to attend college, Jim first attended Concordia Teachers College (now Concordia University Chicago) in River Forest, Ill. before transferring to Concordia St. Paul to complete his associate of arts degree. It was during that first year Jim decided that, at some point in his life, he would donate $1,000,000 to the church in thankfulness for his Christian education. “I wanted to do something extraordinary for the cause of Jesus Christ in addition to being a teacher or a pastor,” he says.

Early in their marriage, Jim and his wife Karen dedicated themselves to tithing from their income and focusing on stewarding their God-given resources wisely. “It's the way that I use the things God has blessed me with that brings joy, not the ‘saving’ of those things,” Karen remarks.

And so, Jim and Karen have lived below their means while giving generously to the church and living frugal lives. “My bias is that there is no evidence that having more things makes you happier,” admits Jim. “Having more things makes lots of people less happy.”

While serving in ministry in Colorado, Jim and Karen were able to invest in real estate utilizing zero down FHA loans that were available in the 1970s. When they left Colorado for Wisconsin and sold the real estate, they were able to begin investing in the stock market, staying with it despite the inevitable ups and downs.

Wisely stewarding their money has allowed the Laatsches to bless Concordia St. Paul, other Concordias, their congregation, and other ministries and nonprofits. They’ve also had the opportunity to travel extensively, including to Israel with Dr. Mark Schuler, Emeritus Professor of Theology at CSP.

Karen encourages others to think about and act on how they might become better stewards. “I would encourage everyone to take that first small step and see where God will lead them. It's an exciting journey.”

GIVING TODAY

Gifts to the Opportunity Fund today allow CSP to address the areas of greatest need for our students and ensure that a Concordia education remains affordable, accessible, and achievable. The chart below shows how Concordia distributes Opportunity Fund gifts.

Thanks to generous Opportunity Fund donors, CSP was able to accomplish the following last year: award generous scholarships; update online infrastructure for coursework and academic resources; and invest in campus enhancements and classroom renovations.

CAMPUS BEAUTIFICATION

SCHOLARSHIPS

45%

CSP MINISTRY 5% 10% 10% 10% 20%

LEADERSHIP & CAREER DEVELOPMENT

DIVERSITY PROGRAMMING

CAPITAL PROJECTS

Alumni and friends make a difference in the lives of CSP students each day. Your gift today provides students with the opportunity to grow in their vocations and pursue tomorrow’s endeavors.

Give today at

CHANGING TOMORROW

“As we make a college education accessible, encourage our students as they aspire to great things, and equip them to achieve their callings for life and career, we are able to do so because of generous support through our endowment. Concordia’s endowment is what makes CSP stronger and able to serve a diverse and growing student population. Endowment is an investment in the future of our students, their families and the people they serve in their careers and communities. It provides a sustainable source of funds for CSP as we grow to serve even more students.”

President Brian Friedrich

“As a student, it is reassuring to have the support of wonderful people like you in such a busy and change-filled time. It can be intimidating going into college with all the expenses, but I am so thankful that God provides through people like you. I am excited about my college journey and all I can learn through it! I look forward to using this opportunity to go and make a difference in the world. Thank you again for your generous donation, God's blessings!”

Julia, ‘26

"Thank you so much for supporting me and my classmates in our endeavors at Concordia University! It is much appreciated and your generosity is unmatched. The opportunities offered by this institution could not be possible without your assistance to students like me and we are eternally grateful for your support."

Kayla, ‘23

“I am super grateful and beyond blessed to receive this scholarship. This scholarship will allow me to pursue my degree in my dream career. With this scholarship, I know that I will be able to accomplish my goals without the stress of worrying about how to pay for my education at a high expense. Not many people have the opportunity to get scholarships but I am very grateful that I was able to receive one and will not take it for granted.”

El-Osiris, ‘25

Concordia’s endowed scholarships benefit students in many of our academic programs and make a lasting impact in the lives of those who receive them.

UPLIFTING GENERATIONS

When donors designate gifts to endowment through their estate plan, they know that their gift will create a lasting legacy for generations to come. Gifts directed to an endowment are invested, earn interest, and grow over time. As the funds continue to grow, a gift to an endowment will have more impact over time. Explore the infographic below to see the impact of a $50,000 endowed gift over 100 years.

JUST IMAGINE THE IMPAC T

VALUE & NUMBER OF SCHOL ARSHIPS given from your investment ON students

AFTER 10 YEARS

$20,980

FUND VALUE: $59,695

AFTER 25 YEARS $66,730

FUND VALUE: $83,224

AFTER 50 YEARS $186,459

FUND VALUE: $144,800

10 Student Scholarships Student Scholarships Student Scholarships Student Scholarships

33 93 378 AFTER 100 YEARS $757,215

FUND VALUE: $438,341

IN CHURCHES

IN COMMUNITIES

IN THE WORLD

To explore our virtual endowment wall, and view the many endowments that CSP donors support, visit one.csp.edu/endowment.

ADOPTIONS/BIRTHS

Donald, HS '61, JC '63 and became the proud great-grandparents of Thomas James Stynes.

Valerie (Anderson) Sellmeyer, BA '86 looks forward to welcoming her third grandchild in January

Kristina Shaw, BA '03 welcomed Monroe to her family in November 2021. She joins big brothers Rhett

ALUMNI NOTES

SUBMITTED BETWEEN APRIL 12 AND OCTOBER 12, 2022

Bethany Friedl, BA '10 is expecting her first child in

Ariel Dolmos-Jones, BA '12 welcomed second son, Asa, to the family. Older brother Asher loves having Asa as his

1990s

Jolyn (O'Flanagan) Eiden, BA '90 is celebrating 30 years as co-owner of Modern Design Custom Cabinetry.

Allen Marsh, '92 recently appeared as screenwriter Alvin Sargent in episode nine of the limited series 'The Offer' on Paramount Plus, opposite Colin Hanks and Josh Zuckerman.

Sanni Brown, BA '08 is the host of Carbon Sound, launched in June 2022 by The Current. The new music stream, website, and app is dedicated to celebrating Black musical expression across genres, including hip-hop, R&B, Afrobeats, funk, and electronica.

To submit your own alumni note for publication, please visit one.csp.edu/classnote

Jean Hoffmeyer, AA continues to serve as organist at Trinity Lutheran (LCMS), Woodway, Tex.

Janice Noerenberg, BA retired on April 15, 2022 after 26 years with Norwest/

Teresa (Buelow) Piering, has taken a call to serve as a middle school literature teacher at St. James Lutheran School in

Becca (Wiebold) Rausenberger, BA '94, MA '12 accepted a role as EVP, Global Human Resources at Paladin Technologies, a systems integration company based in Vancouver, Canada.

Roy Heflin, BA '95 offers church consultation and mentorship through www. Dove-Works.org.

Tina (Ziemnick) Kassebaum, BA '96 started TMKTrains, a business which provides training that creates peace for teachers, DCEs and pastors in their personal and professional lives.

Sharon Mancuso, BA '98 is a Motorcoach Operator at Village Travel in Oklahoma City.

Thomas Hanna, BA '99 retired in June of 2022 and moved to Florida the following August.

2000s

Michael Meyer, BA '01 was named the principal at Silver Valley High School in Yermo, Calif.

Charles Ly, BA '04 has retired from the St. Paul Police Department. He has relocated from St. Paul to warmer climates.

Brian Jamros, BA '05, MA '08, MBA '12 has been named president of the Sioux Falls Canaries minor league professional baseball team.

Nick Francis, MA '08 took the oath of office as the seventh police chief of Apple Valley, Minn. during the April 13 City Council meeting.

Abby Sultvedt, BA '08 moved to Longville, Minn. and is working with the head start preschool program in the Walker-Hackensack-Akeley School District.

2010s

Dana Habeck, BA '13 manages Nokomis Chiropractic Center PA and Nokomis Massage LLP.

Josh Rudie, MA '14 has accepted the position of assistant principal for Heritage Middle School in West Fargo, ND.

Priscilla Lothian, MA '15 has accepted the role of academic vice president at North West College in Saskatchewan, Canada.

Alex Rutter, BA '15 is co-director and coach of a Junior Olympic volleyball club, Eau Claire Slam.

Lynn Severson, MBA '19 joined the staff of Cuyuna Regional Medical Center in Crosby as Chief Operations Officer.

2020s

Haley Carr, MA '20 was hired as a project manager for Flint Group in Fargo, ND.

1960s

EDUCATION

1980s

Kathy (Johnson) Schlecht, BA '84 earned a Doctor of Worship Studies from the Robert E. Webber Institute for Worship Studies on June 26, 2022.

1990s

Amy (Vande Voort) Schweim, BA '90 received her MS, specializing in Family & Community Services, from the University of Nebraska - Lincoln in August 2022. She continues to serve as Director of Community Engagement at Immanuel Lutheran in Puyallup, Wash.

HONORS/AWARDS

2000s

Pauline Bradford, MA '06 is currently completing a terminal degree from Saint Mary's Minneapolis campus and will graduate in 2023.

2020s

Arlene Stone, BA '20 is pursuing graduate degrees in project management and operations and a graduate certificate for Six Sigma black belt through Southern New Hampshire University. She was nominated for membership in The National Society of Leadership and Success. She has a Quality Analyst and Regulatory Affairs position at Medtronic.

Cristy Hahn, BA '22 began her early childhood training at Waldorf in September 2022.

ENGAGEMENTS/ MARRIAGES/ ANNIVERSARIES

1950s

Rev. Dr. Art, HS '56, JC ‘58 and Connie (Rawerts), JC ‘58 Spomer celebrated 60 years of marriage on August 12, 2022. Art will retire again at the end of 2022, having served the last 6 years in a church plant in the Tulsa/ Broken Arrow, Okla. area. After his first retirement in 2006, the couple traveled extensively including shortterm international missions in China and Tanzania.

Allen, '62 and Gloria (Kuehn), '64 Grohn celebrated their 60th Anniversary in 2022. They met at Concordia in 1961.

1970s

Terry, '70 and Lynette (Wilkening), BA '72 Finnern celebrated 48 years of marriage.

Carol (Weikum) Mundt, BA '67 passed away on April 23, 2022.

ORDINATIONS/ INSTALLATIONS

Douglas, AA '70 and wife Lynn (Ruisz), BA '72 Wahlberg will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on December 2, 2022.

Lois (Rehborg) Bremer, BA '72 celebrated her 50th wedding anniversary.

Mary (Boucher), BA '72 and Martin Zabel, BA '72 celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary with children and grandchildren on July 29, 2022, in Jacksonville, Fla.

1980s

Janis (Diers), BA '82 and David Judd were blessed to celebrate their 40th anniversary this summer by permanently moving to their lake home.

Kenneth, BA '89 and Jeanette (Friesen), BA '90 Clonkey celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on June 24, 2022.

1990s

Jim, BA '90 and Judy (Eickhoff), BA '90 Scriven celebrated their 33rd wedding anniversary this past summer, and their first full year as empty nesters in their home in Vancouver, Wash. Jim is in his 33rd year serving in Lutheran school ministry, and his 8th year as the Education Executive for the Northwest District-LCMS. Judy is in her 26th year in Lutheran school ministry, now serving her 6th year as a director of Grace Lutheran Childcare in Vancouver.

2020s

Rachel Shaptala, BA '20 was married on June 30, 2022.

1980s

Mark Spitzack, BA '85 received an Impact Award from the Parent and Family Advisory Council (PFAC) at M Health Fairview Masonic Children’s Hospital for his work with the Pediatric Bereavement Follow-Up Project. Mark was also recently recognized by Minneapolis/ St. Paul Business Journal as a Health Care Hero.

2000s

Brent Murray, MA '06 has earned ten distinguished service awards, four meritorious service awards and was named Officer of the Year of the Burnsville Police Department in 2021.

2010s

Maria (DuPont) Grams, MA '15, EdS '22 is the recipient of the 2022 Leo Weiss Courage to Teach Award which recognizes one educator who goes beyond the requirements of curriculum to teach and inspire young people about the lessons of the Holocaust.

Bridget Stalboerger, MA '15 earned the Teachers of Excellence award through Sourcewell.

IN MEMORIAM

1950s

Donley Hesse, HS '50, JC '52 passed away on May 21, 2022.

Eunice (Cordes) Streufert, JC '52 passed away on July 9, 2022.

Milan Vano, JC '52 passed away on March 14, 2022.

Fred Muenchow, HS '54, JC '56 passed away on July 24, 2022.

Harvey Ehlers, JC '55 passed away on June 19, 2022.

Joan (Anderson) Lorenz, AA '57 passed away on March 27, 2022.

Dale Fisk, HS '58, JC '60 passed away on June 3, 2022.

1960s

Raymond Pollatz, HS '65, JC '57 passed away on June 15, 2022.

Milton Kuball, BA '68 passed away on May 23, 2022.

1970s

Rev. Dr. Fred Rengstorf, AA '70 passed away October 4, 2021.

Teresa A. Leverett, BA '76 passed away on December 1, 2021.

1980s

David Espeland, BA '81 passed away on March 22, 2022.

Candace (Lonsworth) Robertson, '87 shared that her husband, Joseph "Marty" Robertson passed away on May 3, 2022.

Emily R. (Behling) Rogers, BA '88 passed away on May 27, 2022.

1990s

Victoria Raymond, '90 passed away on January 31, 2022.

Dr. David Krause, '91 passed away on March 13, 2022.

David Case, BA '94 passed away on May 8, 2022.

2000s

Kelly Sadlovsky, BA '03, MA '06 is grieving the loss of her youngest granddaughter, Mia Palmer Barr, daughter of Meagan (Sadlovsky) Barr, MBA '19, to SIDS on March 19, 2022.

Michael Schroeder, BA '00, MA '02 passed away on September 13, 2022.

Rosalie (Daak) Olson, BA '01 passed away on May 24, 2022.

Sharon Hegstrom, BA '02 passed away on July 24, 2022.

2010s

Rachel Zisler, MA '13 passed away on June 30, 2022.

2000s

Daniel Borkenhagen, BA '02 accepted the call to serve as Pastor of Discipleship at Good Shepherd Lutheran of Owatonna, Minn. He was installed on Sept. 11, 2022.

Tara (McMiller) Darling, BA '09 was installed as the Christian Life Director at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Mount Vernon, Iowa on April 9, 2022.

OTHER

1960s

Alice (Kratt), AA '62, MA '00 and Bob Smith, AA '61 served at Messiah Lutheran Church in Ewa Beach, Haw. from September 2020 until June 30, 2022. They now live in Frankenmuth, Mich.

Renee Miller, BA '69 is enjoying retirement, gardening, practicing hymns on the organ so she is ready when it is her turn to play at church, reading, crocheting, baking, and attending Bible study.

1970s

Emilie (Busse) Brustuen, BA '78 has three grandchildren: June, Nils, and Boden.

1980s

Timothy J. Rehwaldt, BA '80 recently published his book "Troubled Churches: What's the Story?" It helps troubled churches break unhealthy patterns of conflict. It is available on Amazon.

Kim (Marxhausen) Bestian, BA '81 has several books available through CPH including “Blueprints for Children's Ministry” and “Alive Before You Were Born”. Kim and husband, Rev. Brian Bestian, BA '83, reside in Conroe, Tex. where Brian serves as pastor at St. Mark Lutheran Church.

Lynn (Karolus) Kroonblawd, BA '84 and her fellow Wolfgram cousins, met in June 2022 near Gibbon, Minn. Sixteen of the 70 plus relatives at the reunion either attended or graduated from CSP. Attendees include: Barb (Wolfgram) Scott, '76, Keith Esala, BA '76, Bev (Wolfgram) Esala, BA '77, Lynn (Kroonblawd) Williams, BA '77, Tim Wolfgram, '83, Rev. James Kroonblawd, BA '82, Lynn (Karolus) Kroonblawd, BA '84, Denise (Hintz) Wolfgram, '87, Carol (Wolfgram) Niemann, BA '87, Rev. Lester Wolfgram, BA '88, Heidi (Wolfgram) Crowley, BA '91, Laurie (Wolfgram) Mosshammer, BA '95, Dan Wolfgram, '95, Miriam (Wolfgram) Phillips, BA '01, Carla Kroonblawd Belistri, MA '15. Not pictured: Jason Esala, '09

Amy Gregg, BA '04 released a book on August 20, 2022. Her fourth published book, “Farmed & Dangerous” (Fox Pointe Publishing, LLP), is the first in a new cozy mystery series set in Minnesota. For more information on all Amy's books and events, visit www. facebook.com/AmyGreggAuthor.

Joel Quinnell, '84 has spent the last 30 years with the Apollo Male Chorus of Minneapolis, Minn. and serves on the Board of Directors. He also serves as the cochair for the Senate District 50 Republicans.

1990s

Mary (Huesman) Woodhouse, BA '91 took a medical retirement in 2010. She has two grandchildren and spends time knitting and crocheting items that are then donated to various charities.

2000s

May Lor Xiong, BA '03, MAEd '09 announced her intention to seek the GOP nomination to challenge Betty McCollum, in Minnesota’s 4th Congressional District.

Seborn Yancy, BA '07, MA '12 and wife Meghan are proud of their family.

Alumni Making a Difference recognizes alumni who live out Concordia’s mission and vision through acts of service, innovation, or outstanding leadership by using their talents and vocations in ways that positively impact the lives of others. Alumni can be recognized for contributions made over time or for individual projects.

RECENT RECIPIENTS INCLUDE:

Sanni Brown, BA '08

2010s

Kevin Koester, BA '15 was featured in an article in Concordia Seminary Magazine, reflecting on his year of service as Associate Pastor at Mount Calvary Lutheran Church in Huron, S.D.

Vicki (Stuber) Howell, BA '92

Bill Martchenke, BA '93

Caileen (Wagner) Ostenson, BA '12

Carole Ries, MA '16

Nicole Rogers, Licensure '19

Tracey (Winn) Steivang, BA '94

Susan (Peters) Blom, BA '73

Laura Burr, MBA '19

Karla (Boettcher) Lyngstad, '76

Beverly Hammond, MBA '18 performed as Mary in Theatre 55's production of Jesus Christ Superstar.

2020s

Marc Pentland, MA '20 finally relocated to sunny Ft. Myers, Fla. where he loves the beach lifestyle and his community.

Chanda Smith-Baker, MA '09

Dorothy (Wagner) Sutton, BA '68

To view recipient bios and to submit a nomination, please visit: one.csp.edu/makingadifference

The Impossible Roadtrip:

An Unforgettable Journey To Past And Present Roadside Attractions In All 50 States

By Eric Dregni. Motorbooks, 2021. Hardcover. 192 pages. $35.

Eric Dregni is one strange writer. It’s strange, indeed, that he has a pen collection large enough to scrawl so many books. It seems like whenever you read Dregni’s newest book, you hear rumblings of another book that will be out soon.

So, that’s strange, but so is what he writes about. He’s fascinated by the bizarre. In love with the peculiar. A connoisseur of that which is freaky. His books are an expression of this obsession.

His latest book, his twenty-fourth, The Impossible Road Trip: An Unforgettable Journey To Past And Present Roadside Attractions In All 50 States, is no exception.

Reading this book is like climbing in the car with your zany uncle who is taking you on a road trip that you’ll never forget. And Uncle Eric has no intention of taking you to the Grand Canyon or Disney World or The Statue of Liberty.

Eric Dregni isn’t that kind of uncle. This isn’t going to be that kind of trip. But rest assured, it’s going to be trippy. Getting in his car—and I don’t know what kind of car Dregni drives, but I’m picturing him in an Oscar Mayer Wienermobile with a fully functioning flux capacitor— means you’re going to see this wonderful country of ours in a way that you didn’t know was possible. You’re going to exit at stops you wouldn’t have otherwise. Hop on blue highways. Hit places that aren’t found in the most popular of travel guides. Let’s face it: He’s Eric in Wonderland and he’s taking you down some interesting rabbit holes.

Dregni is an enthusiastic tour guide who exudes a fascination with each zany roadside encounter on his travel itinerary. You’re going to hit all fifty states. You’ll visit The Santa Cities. Underwater hotels with waterproof suitcases. The Taj Mahal of…wait for it…West Virginia—a golden temple built by the Hare Krishna. A kebab made of cars. The Grotto of Redemption dedicated to the Virgin Mary. A museum of painted toilet seats. You get the point. The places Dregni takes you are off the wall and off the beaten path.

And they are fun.

So is his voice. The Impossible Road Trip is enjoyable to read because Dregni is clearly having a blast chronicling this road trip. Dregni does what the best of writers do and he convinces you that what he has to say is important. That these places are important. That’s not easy to do when you’re writing about a steampunk spaceship or a large ball of twine, but Dregni pulls it off.

When you read a book such as this, you realize how incomplete your education is. If you want to be that person at your workplace or church or family gathering who knows things no one else does, The Impossible Road Trip is for you. You will be armed with small talk that will induce all sorts of head-scratching.

In a world with so many problems, Dregni’s travelogue is a welcome respite. A true gem of a book. A treasure you’d be wise to unearth.

Story: Matt Ryan, Associate Professor of English at Concordia St. Paul

Photo: Courtesy of Eric Dregni

Eric Dregni is Prof. of English, Journalism & Italian at Concordia St. Paul. The Impossible Road Trip can be purchased through online retailers.