Winter 2022 Concordia St. Paul Magazine

CONCORDIA ST. PAUL MAGAZINE WINTER 2022

An Enduring Mission In a dynamic world, challenging higher education landscape, growing student population, and evolving workforce, CSP’s mission has been a responsive, relevant, and real anchor for our students over the past 30 years.

TO PREPARE STUDENTS PAGE 5 ALL WITHIN THE CONTEXT OF THE CHRISTIAN GOSPEL PAGE 15

IN THIS ISSUE CONCORDIA UNIVERSITY, ST. PAUL

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1282 Concordia Ave St. Paul, MN 55104 (651) 641-8810 1(866) GROW-CSP one.csp.edu

FROM THE EDITOR: AN ENDURING MISSION

@concordiastpaul @concordiastpaulalumni

publisher

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Office of University Advancement editor

Billy Schultz, BA ‘08, MA ‘11 editorial board

TO PREPARE STUDENTS

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Dr. Colleen Arendt Chris Eilitz, MA ‘03 Dr. Oluwatoyin Akinde Fakuajo Tom Halligan, BA ‘14 Loc Luong, BA ‘17 Rhonda (Behm) Palmersheim, BA ‘88 d e s i g n a n d l ay o u t

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Upswing Creative St. Paul, Minn. printing

Ideal Printers Inc. St. Paul, Minn.

FOR THOUGHTFUL AND INFORMED LIVING

FOR DEDICATED SERVICE TO GOD & HUMANIT Y About Us

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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.

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Mission

FOR ENLIGHTENED CARE OF GOD'S CREATION

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CSP NEWS

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ALL WITHIN THE CONTEX T OF THE CHRISTIAN GOSPEL

ADVANCING THE MISSION OF CSP

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ALUMNI NOTES

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. © 2021 Concordia University, St. Paul

CONGRATULATIONS to this year’s Alumni Award recipients and Athletic Hall of Fame inductees

Awards

A L U M N I A S S O C I AT I O N

2021

Alumni Distinguished Service Rev. Dr. Robert Kolb, JC ‘61 Col. Kevin Olson, MA ‘09 Educator of the Year Laura Hillman, BA ‘09 Peter Klemp, BA ‘92 Noorulain Syed, BA ‘09

Service to the Church Enith (Degler) Bailey, BA ’ 69 Mary (Schultz) Golnitz, BA ‘71 Rev. Bruce Harrmann, BA ‘71 William Johnson, BA ‘79 Amanda (Romba) Knoell, BA ‘00

AT H L E T I C

HALL

of

FA M E

C O N C O R D I A U N I V E R S I T Y, S T. PA U L

Jonathan Breitbarth, BA ‘98 Emily (Palkert) Davis, BA ‘11 Brenden Furrow, BA ‘10 David Golnitz, BA ‘73 Craig Heiman, BA ‘10 Ron Hilk, BA ‘73 Travis Johansen, BA ‘07 Sami Mattson, BA ‘11 Janet (Brownawell) Smith, BA ‘03

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From the Editor

An Enduring Mission The mission of Concordia University, a university of The Lutheran ChurchMissouri 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.

If you’re like me, the beginning of a new year provides opportunities to reflect on the past and think, plan, and pray about what will happen in the future. There’s a simple beauty in marking the passage of time, especially when it comes to remembering significant milestones in our own lives and even for institutions that we cherish.

This year, one significant milestone we mark at Concordia is the 30th anniversary of our mission statement. As an alumnus, I recall that the mission was printed in every syllabus I received at the start of the semester and that coursework and our life together flowed from it. The mission wasn’t just words on a page, but embodied by students, faculty, and staff.

Our mission statement has a fascinating history. In referencing historic Board of Regents and strategic planning documents, the first mention I found of Concordia adopting a mission statement comes in late 1985.

That was the same year the university launched the Concordia School of Adult Learning (CSAL), which opened the doors for working adults looking to earn their degrees, but through an accelerated format. At the same time, the demographics of the traditional population at CSP had also been changing: fewer students from Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS) congregations attended the college, and the university as a whole became more diverse.

In light of the emerging landscape, work began to evaluate Concordia’s mission statement in late 1990. Vice President of Academic Affairs Loma Meyer convened a committee of faculty to review the mission statement. “We needed clarity on what LCMS and non-LCMS students [and parents] should expect and what we could pledge,” recalls President Emeritus Robert Holst, who began his tenure at Concordia in 1991.

In late 1991, a committee led by Prof. Robert Kolb began drafting the revised mission statement based on feedback from the community.

Committee members were Profs. David Carlstrom, Kathryn Schenk, Donald Sellke, Wilbur Thomas, and Alan Winegarden, who each represented an academic division of the college. On November 12, 1992, the faculty formally adopted Concordia’s mis-sion statement, where it has served our community for the last thirty years.

“The final product reflected our firm place within the Lutheran tradition...with its reflection of Luther’s strong doctrine of creation and his oft-ignored bold stance for social justice ([Luther] was a sharp critic of “the system’s” abuse of the little people),” observes Kolb. “Furthermore, the College as an institution—Lutheran and non-Lutheran faculty members and staff—understood itself as anchored in the faith in Jesus Christ and his saving work, and that meant that we were committed to serve God’s world far beyond the boundaries of the church itself.”

Kolb continues: “We recognized that what we were doing, in the study of language or history, in the chem lab or the rehearsal room, in all phases of instruction and our life together, fulfilled a mission in accord with Lutheran theology and the church’s larger purpose in God’s world.”

Even as Concordia College grew to become Concordia University, the landscape of higher education changed, and countless events shaped the world, CSP's mission has held steady.

President Brian Friedrich notes his respect for the mission: “I continue to be thrilled by the many and various ways CSP has grown because of its mission in ways our founders could not have imagined. The mission is bold, broad, inclusive, inspirational, yet applicable, engaging and outreaching.”

This issue of the CSP Magazine pays tribute to our enduring mission.

Billy Schultz, BA ‘08, MA ‘11 Editor, Concordia St. Paul Magazine

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AN ENDURING MISSION

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Prepare Students Concordia responds to evolving needs and opens doors to new opportunities in a changing higher education landscape.

Adapting to Serve Students Concordia’s mission begins with our students. Regardless of program, major, or degree level, students come to us for a meaningful, relevant education that helps them pursue their callings for life and career. Since Concordia’s mission was established in 1992, the student population has grown nearly five-fold, traditional-age students have shifted from Generation X to Generation Z, and the higher education marketplace has changed tremendously.

Despite these changes, one constant is the way Concordia prepares students by identifying and adapting to the shifting marketplace and needs of students. As Dr. Kim Craig, Vice President of Enrollment Management, shares, “CSP provides degree programs that align with student aspirations and career opportunities in the marketplace. We’ve expanded our academic offerings in many ways, including our new Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) program delivered in St. Paul and Portland, as well as programs in trauma and resiliency, cybersecurity and data analytics degrees, and many others.”

Additionally, Concordia provides various modes of learning, from in person, hybrid, to online only. Craig says, “We continue to build on three decades of experience in online delivery to bring academic programs to students in the modes that work for their lives.”

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Evolving Needs Concordia’s responsiveness to the needs of Generation Z is also crucial. As Dr. Heath Lewis, Assistant Professor of Christian Education and Leadership, learned through his research on Generation Z’s relationship with the Lutheran Church, this generation is a “highly pragmatic generation, having been raised in a post-9/11 world, living through two major recessions, and now the COVID-19 pandemic. These challenges have left Z’ers experiencing anxiety today and stress about tomorrow.”

Members of this generation are referred to as “digital natives,” which means they have only known a digitally-connected world. “This reality,” Dr. Lewis says, “changes how they engage with others and consume information.”

Dr. Paul Hillmer, Dean of the College of Humanities and Social Sciences, affirms the pragmatic and consumeristic orientation of this generation. He shares, “Students need to see immediate value in what they’re studying. They also want to be more actively involved in their learning.”

Thus, Hillmer and faculty colleagues adapt by engaging students in a wider range of activities than in years past while continuing to emphasize the value of their courses, particularly their liberal arts courses. Hillmer argues that the liberal arts “are more valuable in the workplace than most students think.” He continues, “The critical thinking skills, empathy, research, communication, artistic understanding and expression, nuance, diversity, global and historical context, theological grounding—all these and more—are exceedingly appealing to employers.” In response, Concordia has emphasized career readiness in the last six years to help students hone these vital skills and find rich application of their coursework.

Hillmer notes that Concordia prepares students for life beyond their careers: “In addition to being a valuable worker, students need to think deeply about what kind of person, spouse, neighbor, citizen, volunteer, worshiper, et al. they want to become. These pursuits are, in the long run, every bit as practical and every bit as important as the major one selects.”

Sustained Growth & Stability Concordia’s ability to meet the needs of students is evident in various metrics, most notably as the second largest and most affordable of the 17 members of the Minnesota Private College Council. Craig says, “At a time when almost all peer institutions are seeing declining enrollment and financial challenges, CSP has followed a strategic eight-year path to sustained growth and stability. This year’s enrollment is the second highest in CSP’s 129-year history, just below last year’s record high enrollment. We’ve gone from fewer than 3,000 students less than ten years ago to 5,526 this fall.”

While record enrollment and affordable tuition are critical markers of Concordia’s success, as Craig argues, “success is best noted in student outcomes. Our graduates hit the job market ready for their careers. More than 90% of students obtain their initial career outcome within 9 months following graduation, and CSP alumni are also among the highest paid business professionals in Minnesota. With these strong career outcomes, Concordia is ranked first among Minnesota’s private universities on the Social Mobility Index.”

Successful student outcomes are driven by Concordia’s consistent, high quality education. As Hillmer concludes, “Fundamentally, students then and now want and need the same things, to find meaning and purpose for their lives. They want their classes to be relevant and their professors to be compassionate and understanding as well as competent and interesting.”

Concordia’s administration, faculty, and staff are proud to see the fruits of their dedication and adaptability pay off, not only for the university, but especially for the students we prepare.

Story: Dr. Colleen Arendt, Associate Professor in the Department of Communication Studies Photos: Concordia University Marketing

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Thoughtful and Informed Living A diverse university prepares students to engage thoughtfully with global perspectives.

Fostering Relationships Thoughtful and informed living, to be certain, involves curriculum, courses, research, internships, and other activities associated with academic pursuits. At a university like Concordia, relationships are a key part of preparing students to live out their callings. Here, students from around the United States and across the world, from myriad backgrounds, come together in pursuit of knowledge and desire to grow in wisdom and understanding.

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Concordia Today The fall 2021 student census highlights the tremendous diversity within Concordia’s students. Women comprise 65% of the 5,526 students. Of the 1,695 traditional undergraduate students, no single ethnic group constitues a majority. Students of all ages attend CSP, from high school aged PSEO students to a handful of students who are 65 and older. Besides the United States, students come from 34 different countries.

Student Body President Justin Kohlman, ‘22 reflects on what this diversity has meant for his own education: “Coming from a small town that wasn’t the most diverse, I’ve loved the experience of being at such a diverse university. Having the opportunity to meet people from across the country and across the world is not an experience that you get at many smaller universities.”

CSP’s Ethnic Diversity is a Gift African American

Hispanic

American Indian

Two or more races

Asian/Pacific Islander

International

Caucasian

Unknown

All data from fall 2021 census for traditional undergraduate population

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Perspectives that Prepare As Concordia provides opportunities for students to receive an education and engage with those different from themselves, powerful outcomes happen. Aqueelah Roberson, Director of the Dr. Cheryl T. Chatman Diversity Center, explains: “In a diverse community where respecting and valuing others is conscientiously endorsed, a keen sense of cultural awareness and sensitivity is fostered. Through this fostering, a high regard for humanity is cultivated and an indelible mark is made in fortifying communities.”

This mark doesn’t just last while a student attends Concordia, but carries into all aspects of life and career. Chief Diversity Officer Mychal Thom notes that diversity “provides students an opportunity for personal growth, personal learning, and ultimately, chances to lead in the future.”

Anna Klombies, BA ‘07, has built a career in human resources, mainly in tech startups. In her experience, diversity within a workplace is a strength: “Diversity brings different perspectives— distinct perspectives—which is awesome; it leads to innovation and creativity,” she observes. “I think it leads to people having very meaningful discussions, which lead to better decisions and better outcomes.”

“When diversity is built into the fabric of your organization, all things will prosper.”

Aaron Taylor, BA ‘04, MA ‘12

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With extensive professional experience in secondary and higher education, Chris Dennis, BA ‘05, MA ‘08, agrees.

“When you have a diversity of all kinds of things, the bottom line is better.”

Aaron Taylor, BA ‘04, MA ‘12, works in talent acquisition for a large construction firm, and sees the same thing in his profession: “When [diversity] is built into the fabric of your organization, all things will prosper.”

In the Context of the Gospel Recognizing the centrality of diversity as one of Concordia’s key strengths, in 2019, Concordia’s Board of Regents adopted a diversity plan as part of the university’s strategic plan. Rooted in the gospel, this plan lays out how CSP can best fulfill the phrase “Christ is honored and all are welcome” found in its promise statement.

President Brian Friedrich reflects on the importance of the diversity plan: “With prayer and humility, this plan serves to guide us as we walk together in community, to listen to and learn from one another, and see one another as God’s image-bearers. We realize, as sinful people, we do not live out this love perfectly, and we rely on God’s grace constantly.”

The diversity plan contains four main goals:

Increase retention and graduation rates for diverse students

Recruit and develop staff and faculty to represent diverse backgrounds and equip them to serve a diverse population

Strengthen curriculum and instruction

Ensure that spaces and people foster hospitality and community

Awareness and Growth Alumni Dennis and Taylor co-founded a consulting and coaching firm called The Campus Culture Group. In their work, they help individuals and organizations develop a better understanding of diversity, equity, and inclusion practices; change management; and community engagement and belonging.

Partnering with Concordia’s Office of Alumni Relations, Dennis and Taylor have led online workshops for members of the CSP community, providing insights into how people can succeed in the workplace and beyond. Regarding their philosophy of how to become culturally responsive and aware, Taylor shares, “It’s ok to be uncomfortable, and you’re going to learn from being uncomfortable.”

“Learning is a curious endeavor, and once you find things out, then you’re aware and informed,” Dennis adds, “CSP is working with us to try and have some of those conversations in ways to make them more accessible to folks.”

Thom echoes the importance of these conversations: “We serve others with a love that Christ modeled for us, not afraid to engage in the stories of those around us, and realize that the grace he freely gives us abounds.”

Story: Billy Schultz, BA ‘08, MA ‘11 Photos: Concordia University Marketing

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Dedicated Service to God and Humanity As our alumni serve, they create ripple effects in their homes, workplaces, communities, and beyond.

Each of these alumni—and many, many more—demonstrate CSP’s mission by serving God and humanity in their various vocations. By God’s blessing, we’ll continue to see generations of CSP alumni eager to answer the same call.

Story: Victoria (Tori) Miller, BA ‘21 Photos: Courtesy of interviewees

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Dedicated Service through Education Mainhia Moua, BA ‘17 currently works as a Learning Specialist at Minneapolis College of Arts and Design. Her day-to-day work entails assisting students who need literacy support and coaching student success programs. Moua’s passion to serve students stems from her own family experiences.

A member of the Hmong community, Moua grew up translating English to Hmong for her parents.

She recalls: “I found words to be very powerful and an outlet for people to express their voices.”

Through her passion for education and language, Moua discovered what dedicated service to God and humanity means to her. “When we take time to think of others rather than ourselves, we see that everyone is worthy and deserving of love,

compassion, and opportunities, which is different from what the world teaches us.”

As she advances professionally, Moua fondly remembers her experiences at CSP. Being both the Vice President of Sigma Tau Delta, an English Honors Society, and a writing tutor during her time at Concordia, Moua’s education reinforced her interest in English. She also credits her professors’ encouragement for getting her to where she is today.

Moua’s commitment to serving others is greater than any award or recognition.

Of the legacy she would like to leave, she says, “I want to leave a legacy not on material possessions that I own or big accomplishments that I achieve, but on the fact that I loved with all my heart, and that I tried my best.”

Dedicated Service through Servant Leadership Jason Weber, MA ‘08 is currently the Associate Vice President of People and Values for the Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center. Throughout his professional journey, Weber discovered the importance of servant leadership.

Apart from his work at Texas Tech, Weber consults with companies to create structures for them to effectively practice organizational values. He has developed servant leadership programs for a wide range of organizations, including correctional facilities. While the environments in which Weber works are often secular in nature, he has nevertheless found a biblical connection to servant leadership. Weber argues that our culture needs leaders who “serve with compassion and serve with grace.”

In addition to servant leadership, he has also observed the importance of relationships in the workplace. His advice to leaders: “Connect. Focus on the relationships. It’s through relationships and it’s through this process we can support our teams.”

Fruitful organizations require ser vant-driven leadership and quality support systems to thrive.

Weber has experienced this truth firsthand. He credits CSP’s Criminal Justice Leadership MA program for giving him the tools he needs in his career. Weber states, “The program and course work weren’t just about how to be a leader in just corrections, but instead, it was about how to be a leader period—which can apply in all areas.”

Dedicated Service to the Hurting Tim Hetzner, BA ‘78 is the President & CEO of Lutheran Church Charities (LCC), whose mission is to “share the mercy, compassion, presence and proclamation of Jesus Christ to those who are suffering and in need.” Some of their primary areas of service are the K-9 Comfort Dog Ministry, specially-trained Golden Retrievers that provide a calming presence for those who are sick, injured, or grieving; Hearts of Mercy & Compassion, which places hearts and crosses at scenes of tragedies; and disaster and crisis response.

For him, serving as Christ served comes through building relationships with people. Whether responding to a natural disaster, mass shooting, or local tragedy, Hetzner believes praying for people and serving them without judgement are his

calling. “You’ve got to understand and follow the method, manner, and ministry of Jesus Christ,” he said.

Hetzner vividly recalls serving in the aftermath of the horrific 2016 mass shooting at the Pulse Night Club in Orlando, Fla with the K-9 Comfort Dogs. There, they provided comfort, prayer, and support to the injured, families of members who were killed, and first responders. One of the people served in Orlando, Hetzner recounted, simply said, “thank you for being here as Christians.”

Throughout his ministry as a Lutheran school teacher, Director of Christian Education, and head of LCC, Hetzner has seen how God works through ordinary people as they serve.

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Enlightened Care of God’s Creation As our faculty prepare students for their vocations, they foster growth in understanding the fullness of caring for God’s creation.

Professors such as Drs. Deressa, Rundquist, and Luker represent the distinctive educational experience created at Concordia University, St. Paul. These exceptional faculty members cultivate inspirational classrooms, instruct students in their vocations, and continually work to instill the significance of enlightened care of God’s creation.

Story: Katrina Wiering, ‘22 Photos: Concordia University Marketing

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Dr. Samuel Deressa Assistant Professor of Theology & the Global South

Dr. Samuel Deressa, Assistant Professor of Theology & the Global South, encourages and teaches his students to invest in their own understanding of God throughout their studies. He shares that his courses prepare students to “serve others based on the biblical principles of what it means to serve [your neighbors] and love not only your country, but the community as a whole.”

Deressa says that while CSP students prepare for different vocations, a theological base provides a unique perspective on who they are and how they might care for all of God’s creation.

Dr. Peter Rundquist, Professor of Physical Therapy, sees the power of his own vocation as an educator and Doctor of Physical Therapy on display in key learning moments with students: “When the students who are struggling with a concept eventually get it and have that ‘ah that really does make sense!’ [moment], that keeps us going, to see that knowledge base build.”

Dr. Peter Rundquist Professor of Physical Therapy

Essentially, he feels most successful when his work as a professor helps students triumph in their own vocations as physical therapists who care for the bodily needs of their patients.

This success shines most when students express to him how their education at

Dr. Julie Luker, Assistant Professor of Psychology, touches on the ways in which her courses instill God’s care for others in students, especially through the lens of social psychology. Luker challenges her students to look beyond their own experiences and consider whether those experiences limit the ways they address the struggles and lives of others.

Dr. Julie Luker Assistant Professor of Psychology

She illustrates the application of her courses, sharing that “as students go through the program, [they’re] growing

Stressing the impact of CSP’s theology courses, Dr. Deressa concludes that every vocation, from nursing to business, must answer questions of honesty, integrity, and care. He notes: “Our students are being trained for different vocations. Theology...provides them with an interesting perspective to what they are normally thinking about in their normal vocation in life.”

Indeed, no matter the vocation, the theology courses presented by faculty such as Dr. Deressa both challenge and equip students to consider what it means to care for God’s creation.

Concordia helped them assimilate seamlessly during clinicals and their eventual transition into the workforce.

Additionally, the DPT program empowers students to forge ahead in their own vocations through a theological lens. Rundquist shares that students can take an elective theology seminar that helps students explore “how physical therapy can be a vocation, even though it’s not strictly the religious vocation that people originally think of.” Rundquist adds: “Our motto in the DPT program is ‘follow in the footsteps of the greatest Healer the world has ever known.’”

in their faith, growing in their worldly experiences and meeting the people outside of school where they are at [in life].”

Dr. Luker remarks that working to teach students enlightened care of God’s creation comes down to a simple yet transcendent concept: “Knowing that we are all God’s creation, no matter what.

No matter what sins and mistakes and anything that we do we are still made by him. And that is so beautiful.”

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Within the Context of the Christian Gospel

In his essay, “Lutheran Higher Education in the Twenty-first Century,” Mark Schwehn captures the heart of a Lutheran approach to higher education: One must always operate with one eye on the God who loves the world and the other on the world that God loves. The more firmly for the Lutheran that the eye of faith rests upon God, the more fervently the eye of reason can acknowledge, celebrate, and seek to advance the best of secular learning and the best of university life. 1 1

Mark Schwehn, “Lutheran Higher Education in the Twenty-first Century,” in The Future of Religious Colleges: The Proceedings of the Harvard Conference on the Future of Religious Colleges, October 6-7, 2000, ed. Paul Dovre (William B. Eerdmans Publishing Company, 2002).

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At Concordia University, we do excellent, rigorous academics while also remaining faithful to the deep and enlivening Christian faith and ethos that guides this university. Not all Christian colleges and universities can operate in this middle space—in the tension between secular learning and Christian faith—but the Lutheran ethos at Concordia enables us to not just achieve this balance, but to excel at it.

A distinctly Lutheran ethos is not some lofty, intellectual goal, but it is a grounded, lived experience of God’s grace reaching and renewing all people. This is what it means to do all things in the context of the Christian gospel.

Those who work and teach with college students know very well the immense struggles people face today. It’s not just problems and challenges that are “out there,” but the real pains, losses, and hurts students bring with them when they come to campus. Concordia is a place where students can piece together the parts of their life that don’t make sense with faculty, staff, and university leaders who care deeply about students as individuals—as whole people created and loved by God. The Christian gospel—the radical grace and love of God in Christ Jesus—is a very real, tangible experience of the in-breaking of God amid the chaos of human life. As a result, Concordia’s Lutheran ethos can build up resiliency, tenacity, and courage among its students. 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.

At the heart of Lutheran theology is the theology of the cross. This is where God meets us. On the cross, Jesus deals with the root cause of human pain and suffering. This cost Jesus his life!

But the good news of the Gospel is that Jesus declares his victory over sin and death in his resurrection. As Paul eloquently proclaims, “The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ” (1 Corinthians 15:56 ESV).

As a result, a Lutheran university can realistically account for human mortality and finitude, while also maintaining a clear and persistent hope that God will indeed bring about a final and complete restoration of all that has gone wrong in the world. In other words, Concordia must be perceptive about and responsive to the hurts, pains, and stark realities of the world.

This attribute of a Lutheran university is extremely important for maintaining credibility intellectually and theologically, especially amid so much crisis and uncertainty in our society.

Intellectually, we must engage with scholarship that addresses the deepest of human hurts. Theologically, we must also be realistic and honest about the brokenness, pain, and suffering in the world.

While we grapple with these challenges intellectually and theologically, the Christian gospel reminds us to trust in patient hope that God works in real space and time to bring healing, forgiveness, and restoration.

The Gospel of John shows with unmistakable clarity that God fulfills this hope—this aching for things to be right in the world—in Jesus Christ. John writes, “And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth” (John 1:14 ESV).

Story: Rev. Dr. Mark Koschmann, Associate Vice President of Faith & Ministry Photos: Concordia University Marketing

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Enrollment Remains Strong CSP’s fall 2021 enrollment showed the second-highest number of students in 129 years of operation. Official enrollment for the fall term totaled 5,526 students, which is just below last year’s record-setting 5,567. This figure includes traditional undergraduate, adult undergraduate, and our expanding graduate and doctoral programs. As the second-largest private university in Minnesota, CSP’s vitality and relevance continue to counter larger trends in higher education.

“Concordia University, St. Paul continues to outperform the higher education community as a whole, with many institutions seeing sequential yearover-year declines in enrollment,” said Eric LaMott, Provost and COO for CSP. “Our students see the opportunity for strong, career-focused academic programs that align their interests with the opportunities and trends in the job market.”

The university experienced slight declines in undergraduate enrollment versus the prior year, which was expec ted with declining numbers in secondary education in the region. At the same time, CSP noted enrollment gains in its master’s degree programs and even higher gains in doctoral program enrollment.

A key factor fueling strong enrollment is the expansion of programs and introduction of new degree options in health sciences, which provides greater opportunities for students and supports CSP’s strong financial position.

The new Associate of Applied Sciences degree in medical sonography, a collaboration with Allina Health, creates a strong two-year option for students seeking healthcare careers. In addi-

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tion, our ABSN program for nursing is highly competitive in the local market and provides pathways to high-demand nursing jobs in the region.

CSP focuses on promoting an even more culturally diverse and rich campus experience, drawing a record of 204 international students (graduate and undergraduate) this year. In total, 31 countries are represented on campus, with students coming from North America, Europe, the Middle East, and the Far East.

“The Concordia experience reflects our global community, and we will continue to invest in ways to draw students who live in the immediate area as well as those who join us from much longer distances,” added LaMott.

Church Work Tuition Guarantee Expands CSP is committed to affordability for all church work students. Therefore, we are excited to announce that our Church Work Tuition Guarantee (which guarantees $6,000 annual tuition, to church work students) is expanding.

Beginning fall 2022, the Church Work Pre-Seminary Tuition Guarantee will allow all pre-seminary students (both pre-pastoral and pre-deaconess) to attend CSP tuition-free.

This bold step emphasizes CSP’s renewed commitment to pre-seminary students as a larger effort to raise up church workers within The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod, with Rev. Dr. Reed Lessing being named the pre-seminar y director at CSP. The Church Work Tuition Guarantee is made possible by generous donor support.

To learn more, visit https://www.csp. edu/churchworktuitionguarantee/.

CSP Launches Second Living Learning Community This fall, Concordia launched its second living-learning community (LLC), the Science and Service Integrated Learning Communit y (SSILC). The SSILC is a group of 22 new first-year students who live in Hyatt Village, take two classes together, and participate in service projects and other co-curricular opportunities.

By combining academic experiences and residential life, LLCs provide a holistic structure to support students through their academic journey. Riki Mae Duevel, SSILC resident, says that she enjoys being surrounded by fellow students who are interested in the field of science. “My favorite par t of the SSILC is being able to overcome challenges in our classes together. It lets us see each other’s strengths, passions, and lets us get to know each other better.”

The group is taking BIO 120 this semester from Dr. Mary Ann Yang, who appreciates the opportunity “to work with a great group of faculty and staff across the CSP campus in supporting the SSILC students in a collaborative and creative way.”

CSP nursing has provided student-centered education to support the growing nursing shortage. Since the pandemic began, CSP has graduated 502 nursing students, an integral part of the healthcare workforce that represents CSP’s mission of dedicated service to God and humanity.

School of Nursing Established Concordia is excited to announce the elevation of the nursing department to that of a School of Nursing within the College of Health and Science.

CSP has offered nursing education since the spring of 2014, and this enhanced designation as a School of Nursing befits the level of complexity that exists for CSP Nursing today.

As Dr. Kevin Hall, CSP’s Vice President for Academic Affairs highlights, “Faculty have played an important role to provide responsive and relevant education to ensure students are well prepared upon graduation. Their focus upon student success is to be commended.”

The CSP School of Nursing is well-positioned to move for ward with the university’s strategic plan to grow, ret ain, and gr aduate competent, compassionate, and Christian nurses prepared to serve diverse citizens in the ever-evolving healthcare industry.

The CSP School of Nursing is led by Dr. Hollie Caldwell, Chief Nurse Administrator and Associate Dean of Nursing.

“We are really excited to represent CSP as a School of Nursing. It is truly reflective of faculty responsiveness, adaptability, and our student-centered focus.

The work of all our nursing faculty and nursing leadership helped to build the strong foundation that has brought us to this point.”

The CSP School of Nursing offers online post-licensure education and pre-licensure education in two states: One physical location in St. Paul, Minnesota, which offers both a traditional pre-licensure BSN and the recently added accelerated BSN; and two physical locations in Portland, Oregon, which offer the University’s accelerated BSN. Clinical education is delivered in three states: Minnesota, Oregon, and Washington, which increases the intricacies of daily operations, accreditation, and regulatory requirements.

Professor Kendra Saal, who serves as Track Chair for both the traditional and accelerated St. Paul pre-licensure BSN tracks, is excited about what this change entails. “With this designation, we will continue our mission by providing a transformative education for each of our students”

2021 Fine and Performing Arts Christmas Concert CSP’s Fine and Performing Arts Christmas Concert was held in person the weekend of December 10-12, 2021 under the theme “My Soul Magnifies the Lord.” Performances included CSP’s Christus Chorus, Jubilate Chorus, Handbell Ensemble, and Concert Band.

Art for the concert was created by Prof.

Stephanie Hunder.

Gangelhoff Center Remodeled During the summer of 2021, the Gangelhoff Center received a number of significant upgrades. Most notably, the original bleachers were replaced; the indoor track was upgraded to a MONDO track, the same type used in the Tokyo 2020 Olympics; new energy-efficient lighting was added; and two new video boards were installed.

Jesus Christ Superstar The department of Music, Theatre, and Dance presented Jesus Christ Superstar October 22-24, 2021. The musical was the first theatrical performance held in the E.M. Pearson Theatre since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The upgrades to the space not only elevate our experience for current students, but also ensure the Gangelhoff Center will retain its role in drawing unique events and countless people to CSP every year,” said Director of Athletics Regan McAthie. “We are appreciative of the combination of university investment and donor support that made this refresh come to fruition.”

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Concordia Student Athletes Earn Prestigious Award

CSP Participates in Trade Mission In November 2021, one of CSP’s top leaders took part in a trade mission to the United Kingdom and Finland alongside Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and representatives from Minnesota businesses and higher education institutions. CSP’s Vice President of Enrollment Management, Dr. Kimberly Craig, represented CSP during the six-day trade mission to London and Helsinki.

During that time, Dr. Craig was able to promote CSP as one of Minnesota’s premier higher education institutions and draw attention to the opportunities available via the strength of the region’s higher education and business entities.

“The trade mission was a tremendous success and will help open doors to expand enrollment of international students at CSP as well as building career pipelines with some of the region’s most influential organizations,” noted Dr. Craig upon her return from the trade mission. “CSP is one of the only universities in the region that has recorded steady enrollment gains over the past decade. Our success is due, in large part, to CSP’s high-quality, career-focused degree programs that align the goals of our students with the needs of the broader business community and job market. Showcasing CSP to a broader international audience will help create opportunities for current and prospective students well in the future.”

Governor Walz’s trade mission included a total of 30+ representatives from state agencies, top employers, and higher education institutions.

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For the fifth time since 2016, Concordia University, St. Paul student-athletes have posted a 90-plus percent Academic Success Rate (ASR) to earn the 2021 DII Presidents’ Award for Academic Excellence, as announced by the NCAA on Wednesday.

Concordia is the only institution from the Northern Sun to be featured among the 43 NCAA Division II award-winning schools nation-wide. Concordia has been recognized with the award three years in a row and five times overall, all coming in the past six years (2016, 2017, 2019, 2020, 2021).

general student population by eight percent. For Division II athletes, the federal rate increased one percentage point to 60%, and the general student body increased one point to 52%.

“It is an honor recognizing 43 schools for this prestigious award,” said Steven Shirley, president of Minot State University (N.D.) and chair of the Division II Presidents Council. “I applaud these schools and student-athletes for their hard work, commitment and dedication to achieving academic excellence.”

This is the highest Division II total and one more than last year’s former top mark in the 11th year the award has been given.

“Concordia is committed to credible career outcomes in responsive and relevant majors from which students can continue into their chosen career aspirations,” said Dr. Eric LaMott, Provost and Chief Operating Officer. “We are so pleased and proud that the hard work of our student-athletes, faculty and staff continues to embody itself in meaningful athletic and academic successes.”

The Division II ASR includes transfers into a school in the calculation and removes transfers out who left the school while academically eligible. The ASR also includes the more than 31,000 non-scholarship student-athletes who were enrolled in the four years covered in the most recent data.

“As an institution, we prioritize academic success for our student-athletes, and are proud that they have lived that out by earning this prestigious honor,” added director of athletics Regan McAthie.

“It is a testament to the hard work they have executed in the classroom and beyond, and it would not be possible without the support that they receive from our incredible faculty and staff.”

Even when using the less-inclusive federal graduation rates, student-athletes are outperforming their peers in the

Mulvihill Named AVCA All-America Honorable Mention The American Volleyball Coaches Association announced the 40th annual AVCA All-America teams for NCAA Division II women’s volleyball, and Concordia-St. Paul sophomore right-side hitter Jasmine Mulvihill was named AVCA All-America honorable mention.

For the 18th consecutive season, the Golden Bears had at least one player earn AVCA All-America honors as Mulvihill earned her second selection after being named AVCA DII National Freshman of the Year and AVCA All-America First Team in 2019.

Celebrating December 2021 Graduates More than 250 graduating students participated in-person

and virtually at Concordia’s December 2021 commencement ceremonies, which were held on December 18 in St. Paul and

December 19 in Portland. Congratulations to these newest members of the Concordia St. Paul Alumni Association!

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Advancing the Mission Because of generous financial support received from alumni and friends, Concordia University, St. Paul can fulfill its mission of preparing students for thoughtful and informed living, for dedicated service to God and humanity, for enlightened care of God’s creation, all within the context of the Christian gospel.

Reducing Environmental Impact Donor Support for Isaiah Because of donor suppor t, Isaiah is studying without financial burden and is ready for dedicated service to humanity.

Because of generous supporters, Concordia St. Paul continues its commitment to care for God’s creation by reducing its impact on the environment. Some of the ways Concordia is maintaining this commitment include: All indoor and outdoor lighting was converted to LED Outdated windows around campus were replaced with more insulated and modern models An energy-efficient, robotic lawnmower was purchased for the Knoll

“I am loving everything that I’m experiencing and learning in CSP’s nursing program. Finances have always been one of my greatest stressors as I’m unable to work much due to the program’s time commitment. Scholarships have supported me in my journey to finish this program and become a professional practice nurse. I hope to be able to give back towards someone else’s education in the near future just as you have done for me. Thank you.”

Isaiah Eddington, ‘21

Because of donations to the Opportunity Fund, Concordia St. Paul has been able to make necessary improvements to major facilities around campus. These improvements provide Concordia students the resources they need to excel in their activities, classes, and competition, preparing them for thoughtful and informed living.

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CSP MAGA ZINE

HVAC systems were updated throughout campus to minimize energy waste Unneeded materials and books are recycled or donated.

Scholarship Support Because of scholarship support, a Concordia education continues to be affordable:

DONOR-FUNDED STUDENT AID

$846,600 22

86%

ENDOWMENTSAND ANNUAL SCHOLARSHIPS CREATED

ENDOWMENTSAND ANNUAL SCHOLARSHIPS CREATED

Figures based on 2020-21 academic year

Make a Difference through The Opportunity Fund The Opportunity Fund allows CSP to address the areas of greatest need for our students. Throughout history, students have relied on funds provided by generous alumni and friends to realize their dream of a Christ-centered private education.

The Opportunity Fund ensures that a Concordia education remains affordable, aspirational, and achievable, both on campus and online.

In addition, while these unrestricted funds primarily fund student scholarships, they also support a variety of projects that enhance the student experience such as program expansion, classroom enhancements, and online learning infrastructure.

Gifts of all sizes make an impact All gifts to the Opportunity Fund have a meaningful impact. Even small contributions, when provided by many, add up to make a collective difference in the lives of CSP students. The following levels provide an idea of the impact various gift sizes can have:

$25

$100

$250

$500

Purchase two new bibles for students

Cover student entrance fees for educational conferences, such as the MN Private College Job Fair

Fund a student club or organization for an academic year

Contribute towards the cost of necessary software and access to digital resources

Cover monthly subscription for an online journal

Provide a uniform to a student-athlete

Purchase a new item for the on-campus textbook loan library

$1,000+

$5,000+

$10,000+

Provide an annual scholarship, which makes a difference in a student selecting CSP and persisting to graduation

Modernize a space on campus, such as a classroom or residence hall lounge

Cover the net tuition for a church work student, now below $10,000 thanks to CSP’s Church Work Tuition Guarantee

Ensure CSP hires, trains, retains, and supports high-quality faculty, a cornerstone of our mission

Purchase needed resources and equipment as we build more programs

To support the Opportunity Fund, either with a one-time or recurring gift, please visit ONE.CSP.EDU/GIVING Gifts totaling $1,000 or more annually qualify donors for the President’s Circle.

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As Stewards of God’s Resources, Alumni Give Back to CSP Jimmy and Joy Anderson have established their estate with Concordia St. Paul as a beneficiary

After attending a small Lutheran high school, heading to college at Concordia University, St. Paul was the perfect fit for both Jimmy, ‘99, and Joy (Spitzack) Anderson, BA ‘02.

“Our high school graduating class had 33 people, and I liked that Concordia also had small classes for a personal experience,” Joy says.

“I was confirmed LCMS (Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod) in high school, and wanted to continue my faith journey,” Jimmy says. “It’s nice that faith is central to the education offered at CSP.” As the couple graduated, married and started careers, they remained active at CSP. Joy has served on the Alumni Advisory Council, and Jimmy is currently a member of the Board of Regents.

The couple has always donated to the university, even when they couldn’t afford to give much. Now, almost 20 years after graduating, they contribute a more significant annual gift to Concordia.

As they looked to make a more profound impact through their estate, with the Lutheran Women’s Missionary League (LWML) and Concordia St. Paul as beneficiaries, Jimmy and Joy started by reaching out to CSP’s gift planning counselor, Matt Steiner.

“We don’t have children, so our gift will be significant, and we want to be intentional,” Jimmy says.

“Matt has been so helpful. We didn’t have a will yet, and he connected us with an estate planning attorney and even joined us in our initial meeting.”

“We’re just the stewards of God’s money,” Joy adds.

“That’s why we want to give back to Concordia and other institutions we love. Working with Matt on this has been a blessing to us.”

Support What Matters to You An estate gift is a simple way to extend your connection to Concordia University, St. Paul.

Contact Matt Steiner at 651641-8243 or steiner@csp.edu to learn about your options.

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CSP MAGA ZINE

Save the date for #CSPDay 2022!

March 17, 2022

Last year, the CSP community united to contribute nearly $200,000 - almost double the original goal! This outpouring of support from more than 472 donors made a huge difference on the lives of Concordia students - both in and out of the classroom. With support going to the Opportunity Fund, Golden Bear Athletics, Visual & Performing Arts, CSP Ministry, and the Dr. Cheryl Troutman Chatman Diversity Endowment, students of all types experienced the big impact of this one day.

On March 17, 2022, we will once again unite to provide critical funding for a variety of areas at CSP, ensuring that students continue to receive the responsive, relevant and real education that Concordia has become known for.

There will be lots of opportunities to celebrate CSP’s empowering education and its close-knit community, and of course many ways to make an impact with your gift.

Join us on March 17 as we unite to make a big impact!

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Alumni Notes ADOPTIONS/BIRTHS

2000s

1960s

Carrie (Wissbeck), BA ‘02 and Garrett Bucko welcomed their son, Charles, in June of 2020.

Theresa Warnsholz, BA '69 welcomed a great-grandson, born July 19, 2020.

1970s Rodger Wells, BA '72 welcomed a grandson, Hudson, in 2021. He has two other grandchildren, Copper, 2, and Grace, 17.

Dawn (Shiell) Lees, BA ‘77 welcomed her fourth grandchild, Rosemary Margaret, on October 18, 2020. She joins Silas James, Evelyn Jean, and Jonah Miles.

Submitted between May 11, 2021 and October 14, 2021

years. After retirement, he did counter terrorism work and then was a Wild-Land Firefighter and Ground Safety Manager. He retired again in 2012. He now enjoys life with his wife of 51 years, family, grandchildren, and serves our Lord at Grace Lutheran Church in Albuquerque, N. Mex. 1970s

Amanda (Bundy) Parparian, BA ‘08 welcomed her second child, Raleigh, in June 2021.

Amanda also graduated with a Master of Science in Art Therapy from Florida State University on July 30, 2021.

Diane (Lyons) Kuchenbecker, BA '73 retired from a 44-year teaching career in June of 2017. She taught at Trinity Lutheran School in Cape Girardeau, Mo. from 19731976, at Trinity Lutheran School in Janesville, Minn. from 1976-1980, and for 37 years in the Owatonna Public School (Minn.) system.

In retirement, Diane enjoys reading, sewing, and spending time with her husband and family--especially her two grandchildren.

Ronald Halverson, BA ‘74 spent 26 years in both the reserved and active military.

1990s Deborah (Yakel) Welnetz, BA '90 welcomed her seventh grandchild in September 2021. She and her husband, Perry, have been married for 32 years and have two children.

2010s Satairia Isles, BA ‘14, MA ‘16 has six children: Brandilyn, 19, Erica, 8, Javon, 13, Andersen, 10, and twins Emmersen and Kelliona, 2.

CAREER 1950s Walter Volz, AA '56 retired on July 13, 2021 after 60 years of pastoral ministry, which included 30 years as chaplain in the U.S. Navy Reserve.

1960s Donald Francis, HS '61, JC '63 was named Pastor Emeritus of St. Paul's Lutheran Church of Griffins Mills in West Falls, N. Y. on August 29, 2021.

Ricky Albrecht, ‘67 retired from the US Navy after 25

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Jacalyn Schulze, BA ‘74 retired from Peace Lutheran Church in August 2020 after 36 years of service. She publishes HOTTL HOUSE (Holy To The Lord) Newsletter and serves as a catalyst to Creative Christian Living.

Margaret L. (Vorwerk) Harris, BA ‘75 works as an Irlen diagnostician, and directs middle school handbells at Salem Lutheran School and high school handbells at Concordia Lutheran High School, both in Tomball, Tex. Sally (Ziehm) Grunst, BA '77 retired from mental health counseling at Yellowstone Counseling Center in Billings, Mont. on September 1, 2021. Her husband, Rev. Mark Grunst, BA '77, retired as Pastor from Mt. Olive Lutheran Church on August 1, 2021.

Kris (David) Marxhausen, BA ‘78 retired in 2016 from Milaca Elementary School in Milaca, Minn. She is a certified Silver Sneakers Water Aerobics instructor and teaches at Princeton Health and Fitness in Princeton, Minn.

1980s Rev. Vera Guebert-Steward, BA ‘82 retired after a 20 year call to pastor the good people of Evergreen Lutheran Church in Evergreen, Colo. She is looking forward to the next chapter in her life with her husband and best friend, Mark. Life is good!

Troy Snell, '89 owns Roulette Pizza in Victoria, Minn 1990s John Trewyn, '94 is retired and serves as a Circuit Visitor for Circuit 4, North Wisconsin District.

Mark Rudolph, BA '98 has been named the president of the Grand Rapids Area Chamber of Commerce, Grand Rapids, Minn.

2000s Rev. Christopher Martin, ‘02 was elected to a three year term on the Executive Council of the Wisconsin-Upper Michigan Mission District of the North American Lutheran Church (NALC) and was installed on September 11, 2021. He serves as Senior Pastor of Hope Lutheran Church in Ladysmith, Wisc. and Glen Flora Lutheran Church in Glen Flora, Wisc.

Jaclyn (Gronbach) Ohmann, BA ‘03 owns a coffee and ice cream shop in Cannon Falls, Minn. as well as a cheese business with two great business partners.

Ronda Charping, BA ‘00, MA ‘04 is a part-time professor at a community college.

MaryEllen (Hildenbrand) Wunrow, BA ‘06 became the Assistant Director of Open Arms Lutheran Child Development Center in August 2019.

2010s Dr. Matthew Loeslie, MA '11 has accepted a new position as dean for the School of Applied Technology at Minnesota State Community and Technical College.

Philip Baebenroth, BA '11, BA '13 was sworn in as the

North St. Paul (Minn.) police chief on September 7, 2021.

Sara (Smidt) Michaelson, BA '13 was named principal of St. Joseph Catholic School in St. Joseph, Minn.

Alexis Celinz, MBA '15 is launching his own consulting business.

María Graver, MA '15 has been named the principal of Aquila Elementary School in St. Louis Park, Minn.

Cassie (Niles) Murphy, MA '15 is the owner of 9Round kickboxing gym in Oshkosh, Wisc.

Jake Ruhland, BA '15 was hired by PTC in an enterprise-level capacity, managing strategic cloud customers.

Eric Trettel, MBA '15 started his own company in March 2021. Sota Bookkeeping offers virtual bookkeeping and fractional CFO services.

Pa Chia Vang, BA ‘15 taught English in South Korea for three years, and is now moving to Seattle to work with the YMCA as a Youth Development professional.

2020s Kelly Engebretson, BA ‘20 was promoted five months after graduation to a management position.

Tyler Strickland, BA ‘20 was promoted in December 2019. In January 2021, he presented a massive database overhaul project now being rolled out to CSS Short Term Residential (a part of DHS in the State of Minnesota). Tyler thanks all his classmates who shared his interest in data and drove him to become a more analytical and effective person.

Matthew Bauer, MA '21 has accepted a position as Head Softball Coach at Moberly Area Community College in Moberly, Mo. Itzel Hernandez, BA '21 works at Concordia University, St. Paul in the Financial Aid Office.

EDUCATION 1980s Rev. Dr. William Doubek, BA ‘81 has a Doctor of Ministry, Homiletics, from the Aquinas Institute of Theology in St. Louis, Mo.

ranging from 1-21 years old. Their granddaughter, Alissa, is a freshman at CSP this year.

Lynn M. Remington, ‘03 retired and then went back to school to become an EMT. She passed the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians in April 2021.

Pauline Bradford, MA '06 is currently completing a terminal degree from Saint Mary's University, Minneapolis campus, and will graduate in 2022.

2010s Sara Stuckey, BA '19 started the Masters of Occupational Therapy program at St. Catherine University in St. Paul in the summer of 2021.

1960s 1970s Steven, AA '67, BA '71 and Eileen (Orn), BA '70 Vaudt celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on June 19, 2021. They were married at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Sturim, N. Dak. and celebrated their 50th at Mount Olive Lutheran Church in Weston, Wisc. where they now live in retirement.

Robert, BA '71 and Rita (Timm), BA '71 Luecke celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on July 17, 2021.

Rev. John, BA ‘72 and Cheryl (Carlson), BA ‘70 Lindner celebrated their 50th anniversary in November 2021. They enjoyed their years at CSP where they met.

Charlotte J. (Wolter) Miller, BA ‘66 shared that her son, Matthew Miller, age 46, passed away on July 14, 2021.

1970s Linda (Ferber) Anderson, BA ‘70 passed away on May 20, 2021. Linda was an Alumni Distinguished Award recipient in 2015 and served on the Alumni Advisory Council from 2016-2019.

Luther Kell, BA ‘71 passed away on January 8, 2021.

Jeffrey Wehrs, AA ‘85 passed away on July 2, 2021.

1990s

HONORS/AWARDS 2010s Jacklyn Milton, MA ‘12 was named a 50 over 50 Community Literary Leader (2020) and received a Sons of Bransford/Alice O. Lynch Community Service Award (2021).

IN MEMORIAM

Joanne (Kuehne), BA '69 and Edwin Lundgren celebrated 50 years in their home in May 2021. They have 10 grandchildren

Rev. K. Simminger, AA ‘61 passed away on January 1, 2021.

1980s

1960s

Warren, BA ‘69 and LaJewel Davis celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on May 29, 2021.

Sandra Jerke, AA ‘61 passed away on May 29, 2021.

John Williams, BA ‘76 passed away on June 18, 2021.

ENGAGEMENTS/ MARRIAGES/ ANNIVERSARIES

Wayne, HS ‘60 and Sandy Anderson celebrated their 45th anniversary on September 11, 2021. They have seventeen grandchildren and three great grandchildren.

David Brammer, HS ‘48, JC ‘50 passed away on April 20, 2021.

Paul Rubbert, HS ‘54 passed away on December 23, 2020.

2000s Joshua Jones, BA '03 completed his Doctor of Ministry degree at Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, Missouri.

His doctorate focused on people with disabilities and the church.

1950s

1940s Martin Beer, HS ‘43 passed away on September 15, 2021.

Rev. Henry Friedrich’s, AA ‘48 wife, Evelyn, passed away on November 27, 2020.

James Neumiller, BA ‘90 passed away on February 16, 2021.

Karen Feyo, BA ‘91 passed away September 2, 2021.

Le Ann (Dusek) Rossbach, BA ‘92 passed away on April 15, 2021.

2010s Christopher Elliott, MA ‘15 passed away on April 19, 2021.

OTHER 1950s Bob Holtz, HS '50, JC '52 has gathered with Emeriti faculty: David Carlstrom, Ken Kaden, George Guidera,

Bill Niebergall, and Carl Schoenbeck monthly to play cards for many years.

Carlstrom and Kaden have passed away, but the other four are beginning their 26th year.

1990s Jeanette (Friesen) Clonkey, BA '90 has gone on seven mission trips to Guatemala and sponsors a child there.

1960s Gustav Friedrich, HS '59, AA '61 was profiled as part of the National Communication Association's Heritage Project. The profile includes information about his life and professional career and can be accessed by searching the project and Gustav's name.

1970s Rebecca J. (Gimbel) Shaw, BA ‘76 lived in Hong Kong and Taiwan for 17 years. Her husband took a call to serve as pastor at Light of Christ Lutheran Chinese Mission in St. Louis, Mo. He retired in 2018 and at that time Rebecca started teaching English as a Second Language. They have two daughters and two grandchildren. Their son is going to college after serving in the Marines for nine years.

Mary, ‘78 and Eric Zacharias celebrated the marriage of their son, Evan, to Alyssa on July 17, 2021 in a ceremony Eric performed. Evan and Alyssa live in Park Rapids, Minn. where he is a physical therapist and she is a teacher. Son Luke graduated from Waldorf University in 2017 and enjoys theater and music. Daughter Lori will complete her degree in early childhood from CSP in 2022.

1980s

Melanie (Brown) Braun, BA '92 was elected to the Board of Directors for the International Lutheran Laymen's League/Lutheran Hour Ministries.

Naomi Stohlmann, BA '97 is currently condo-sitting in Honolulu. She represented CSP while volunteering with Our Savior Lutheran Church at the Hawaii Food Shelf.

Kip Vieth, BA ‘99 is the author of The Orvis Guide to Muskie on the Fly.

2000s Tootie Martin, BA '03, MA '13 and Yordanos Kiflu-Martin, BA '04 have a son, Zephaniah, who is the 2021 Communities Create: Youth Literature Program winner for his book "Jaheem's First Kwanzaa".

The children's book can be purchased through Amazon or Planting People Growing Justice Leadership Institute.

Laurie (Wogsland) Friedrich, BA ‘80 is excited to be back at CSP! She is impressed with the innovation and quality in this dynamic, multicultural, urban environment, where Christ is honored, all are welcome.

She shares, “Can't wait to see you on campus!”

Rev. James, BA ‘82 and Lynn (Karolus) Kroonblawd, BA ‘84 celebrated with their son Cory as he was ordained and installed at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Sac City, Iowa on June 12, 2021.

2010s Emily Barton, BA ‘16 and her partner bought their first home in August 2020.

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