InFocus - Year In Review 2008-2009

1995 Luther Court New Ulm, MN 56073 Address Service Requested

NON-PROFIT U.S. POSTAGE PAID MANKATO, MN 56001 PERMIT #47

E

TO

THE HEA

RT

I

S OF

IR

T H E WO R L

THE PRA OF

D!

RT

FR

OM T H E HE A

SUMMER 2009

Year in Review 2008-2009

S

OF

T H E WO

F THE PR AI T O

FEB

RI

D

M THE HE

RL

F RO

AR

!

RUA

RY

200

8

In Thi Chris

s Issu

tmas

Chap

E

HE HE TO T AR

T

From the Heart of the Prairie to the Hearts of the World

MLC InFocus Wins National Award

The year 2009 marks the 125th year of ministerial training at (Dr.) Martin Luther College in New Ulm. Since 1884, God has allowed us to train men and women for public ministry here on the hill. For 125 years, the gospel has been held tightly and shared generously—from the heart of the prairie to the hearts of the world.

The February 2008 issue of the magazine in your hand, MLC InFocus, won a Merit Award from the Service Industry Advertising Awards (SIAA) this spring. The national judging panel for this year’s competition evaluated nearly 1200 entries based on execution, creativity, quality, consumer appeal, and overall breakthrough advertising content.

To mark the occasion, this issue of MLC InFocus will contain a few short historical notes.

The college’s designer, Lime Valley Advertising, Inc., which submitted the magazine to the competition, also won six other SIAA awards in 2009. Due to their superior designs, the MLC KnightWatch (our recruitment magazine) and MLC ParentsPage (an e-publication for parents of first-year students) have also won SIAA Merit Awards in the past. All three publications are written and edited by Laurie Gauger with photos by Bill Pekrul.

We realize that this campus is just one of many, past and present, in the WELS ministerial education system. Each campus and each school has its own wonderfully rich story to tell, beginning in 1865 with Northwestern College, known first as Wisconsin University and then Northwestern University. And in a few years those stories will be told as we celebrate 150 years of WELS ministerial education. Still, since it has been 125 years since the Old Main bells first rang out across the Minnesota prairie, we thought it appropriate to pause and listen, and to thank the Lord of the Church for his many blessings on us.

Thank you to Professor Emeritus Morton A. Schroeder, whose 1984 book, A Time to Remember, provided much of the information in the historical notes. (Any mistakes, however, are mine alone.)

Thanks also to Alumni Director Steve Balza for access to the historical photos and for supplying the alumni photos along the bottoms of the pages.

Laurie Gauger MLC InFocus Writer/Editor

e...

at MLC el Proj ect al Ex perie nces: Lu Publictheran & Scho ols

MLC Clinic

MLC InFocus is published by Martin Luther College Mission Advancement Office and is distributed free of charge to students, faculty, staff, alumni, parents, and friends. Owned and operated by the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod (WELS), Martin Luther College trains both men and women to serve as teachers and staff ministers in WELS and also prepares men for pastoral training at Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary in Mequon WI. President...................................Mark Zarling VP, Mission Advancement........Jon Scharlemann Public Relations Director.........Bill Pekrul Editor/Writer............................Laurie Gauger Photographer............................Bill Pekrul Research Assistant....................Phil Biedenbender Proofreader...............................Heidi Schoof

All correspondence should be directed to MLC InFocus, Martin Luther College, New Ulm, MN 56073 mlcinfo@mlc-wels.edu 507-354-8221 ext. 295

2

Carleton Toppe NWC ’34 Waterloo WI

David Brandt MLC ’04 St Louis MO

Elizabeth Robisch DMLC ’34 Jefferson WI

Tanya Tranberg MLC ’04 DePere WI

D May Jesus send them forth with the healing power of his Word—from the heart of the prairie to the hearts of the world!

On our cover: Graduation procession led by President Mark Zarling (left) and Professor John Schmidt (right).

M THE HE F RO !

OF

S

The Father of DMLC

RI

T H E WO

F THE PR AI T O

RL

AR

D

N

All over the world, there are people with heart conditions— hearts full of hurt and hate, hearts hungry for a Savior who loves and forgives them. Here on this hill, in the heart of the Minnesota prairie, God has moved men and women to become surgeons for the Savior. Here they train to use law and gospel to treat those with heart conditions, that God himself might place new hearts of faith within those who are dying.

O

The Savior God is in the business of miracle cures— heart transplants that bring sinners from death to life.

I will give them a heart to know me, that I am the LORD (Jeremiah 24:7). I will give them an undivided heart and

I

But Paul goes on to rejoice: because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions.

T

Contrary to pop culture, human hearts are not the font of pure motives, warmth, and vitality. Without God’s healing intervention, they harbor hatred and impurity.

Jesus once said, Out of the heart come evil thoughts, murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false testimony, slander. No wonder Paul uttered, Who will rescue me from this body of death?

put a new spirit in them; I will remove from them their heart of stone and give them a heart of flesh (Ezekiel 11:19).

O

Spoken by a physician, these words tell the patient that his earthly existence is precarious. Spoken by the Holy Creator, these words tell the sinful creature that his eternal destiny is death.

V

“You need a heart!”

E

From the Heart of the Prairie to the Hearts of the World By MLC President Mark Zarling

E

HE HE TO T AR

Pastor C. J. Albrecht served as the first acting director of Dr. Martin Luther College. Along with three brothers and a sister, Christian Johann Albrecht came to the United States from Eschenau, Germany. In his long and energetic career, he also served as the pastor of St. Paul’s in New Ulm for 42 years, the president of the Minnesota Synod, and, at one time, the president of the China Mission Society.

T

In 1883, Albrecht and his congregation asked the synod whether they’d consider building a school for young men preparing for ministry. The St. Paul’s congregation offered the synod $7,000 and four acres of land if they’d build such a school in New Ulm.

Lee Orda Schwecke DMLC ’49 Gibbon MN

Kathryn Luetke MLC ’04 Olivia MN

Adair Moldenhauer DMLC ’39 Milwaukee WI

Jay Bickelhaupt MLC ’99 Fond du Lac WI

3

here on the

At the Heart of the Campus: Chapel of the Christ As beams and then bricks find their places, the Chapel of the Christ morphs from silhouette to solidity. Filling our skyline, it is a powerful statement about our purpose of preparing public ministers of the gospel and a visual sign of the one who lives in our hearts, the one who is the heart of our campus: Christ crucified.

The first dedicated worship space we’ve had on this hill, the Chapel of the Christ will be the sacred place where we receive the gifts of the gospel and respond with praise and thanks. . . where we participate in worship—doing “the work of the people”—with our varied musical and other creative gifts . . . where future called workers are inspired as worship of the highest quality is modeled, embracing the best of the old and the new.

And as President Zarling reminded us in his graduation sermon, when the chapel is completed, construction will continue—within us, for by grace we too “are being built together to become a dwelling in which God lives by his Spirit” (Ephesians 2:22).

Mark your calendars: Chapel Dedication April 10-11, 2010.

4

Carl Mischke NWC ’44 Hazel SD

Maria Reese MLC ’99 Goodhue MN

Myron Hilger DMLC ’44 Markesan WI

Randy Mensching DMLC ’94 Marshfield WI

D

RL

T H E WO R

T H E WO OF

RI

T

OF

HE

S

HE HE TO T AR

S

M THE

Worship in the Auditorium/Gymnasium

E

HE HE TO T AR

T

The campus family has worshiped in many different areas of campus over the years. From 1911-1928, they held chapel in the Aula (pictured), later called the Music Hall.

The Aula was a chapel, auditorium, recital hall, and music rehearsal center—a multifunctional building much like our current chapel-auditorium in the Wittenberg Collegiate Center. It seated 300 people, including 50 in the balcony. It also had 10 practice rooms, and the campus boilers in the basement.

The Aula was built simultaneously with Summit Hall, the men’s dormitory. Construction costs were $12,000 for the Aula and $45,000 for Summit Hall.

Dedication of the buildings on August 20, 1911, brought 5,000 people to campus to thank God for the three beautiful buildings of Dr. Martin Luther College: Old Main, the Aula, and Summit Hall.

Hillmer Schaible NWC ’49 Ann Arbor MI

F RO

F THE PR AI T O

F THE PR AI T O

Worship in the Aula

!

AR

LD

HE

E

M THE

RI

F RO

AR

!

Laura Clark DMLC ’94 San Carlos AZ

In 1928, chapel services were moved from the Aula to the auditorium-gymnasium in the newly erected classroom building.

In this dual-function room (pictured), students sang psalms and sunk freethrows, depending on the time of day. About 300 seats faced the stage, which was the setting for chapel. The other half of the room was a 68- by 76-foot gymnasium, with a fullsize basketball court and bleachers on each side. Folding doors normally separated the two areas of the room, but for large events, chairs were set up on the gym floor, increasing the seating to 1200.

In 1968, an addition and renovation resulted in the removal of the gym floor and the addition of seats, converting the space to the auditorium we are familiar with today. The locker rooms below the gym were converted to two large tiered classrooms, casually known as the catacombs.

Ruth Klossner DMLC ’49 New Ulm MN

Matt Guse NWC ’94 Marietta GA

5

A Wednesday with

SARAH FOELSKE

Elementary

A Wednesday in the Life The MLC college experience melds coursework with hands-on experience, personal growth with interpersonal relationships—all of it infused with the gospel of Christ and driven by our sole purpose: training for the public ministry.

A visit to campus is the best way to absorb this culture, but a look into the daily rhythms of a student’s life can give a taste as well. Let’s take a look at a day—a Wednesday in May, to be specific—in the lives of four students.

This spring, junior Sarah Foelske (Mt. Lebanon— Milwaukee) is tackling a semester heavy on both pedagogy and practical experience. The combination of rigorous coursework and real-world teaching experience is not only preparing her, but inspiring her as well.

8:50 am Teaching Reading with Dr. David Wendler: “It’s amazing,” she says. “Dr. Wendler really knows how to prepare you for what you’re going to do. You leave that class feeling really confident. You learn the techniques, you do the lesson plans, and then you micro-teach: it’s the whole process.

And he gives you the philosophy behind it too. So you not only know what to do but why you’re doing it. It’s the best class I’ve had so far. It really gets you ready to be a teacher.”

She also has Teaching Language Arts and Children’s Literature, but not today. And she can’t help but mention last semester’s Interpersonal Communication with Professor Mark Paustian. “Professor Paustian gets you out of the textbook and talks to you about people. How do you communicate with people connected to you in Christ? How do you do conflict resolution in church or school? He establishes an atmosphere in his classroom where it’s safe to talk about anything. Everyone is open with each other.”

9:45 am Teaching Religion with Professor Jon Roux: “We learn lots of different ideas using Christ-Light, using the Bible itself, incorporating art and technology and special projects.” She appreciates Roux’s broad background; having taught grades 1-8 for many years, he’s brimming with ideas.

6

Paul Schuler NWC ’94 Vienna VA

Alvin Kienitz NWC ’54 Two Rivers WI

10:45 am Chapel: “The musicality of MLC is amazing— the student organists, the full singing of the student body.”

11:15 am Lunch: Good news. It’s a taco day.

12:05 pm Organ Practice: She practices about 150 minutes a week to prepare for her Monday lessons with Adjunct Instructor Jeneane Thiesfeldt. “I’d really like to play organ when I’m assigned next year,” she says.

1:00 pm Homework: Sarah has almost an hour to get a little homework done—or to indulge in a quick nap.

1:55 pm College Chorale with Professor Kurt Wittmershaus: Although she’s an English emphasis, Sarah makes room for music in her schedule too.

2:50 pm Wind Symphony with Professor Miles Wurster: Did we mention that she also plays the clarinet?

3:40 pm Still Running: If it were October, she’d be at cross country practice till 6 (pictured), but today she might hike through Flandrau or work a couple hours in the cafeteria. Speaking of jobs, next year she’ll be an RA (resident assistant) in Centennial, a first-year women’s dorm. “I’ll be on call, set up dorm activities, give informal advice, troubleshoot roommate issues, and generally be around with a listening ear.”

Arvid Kramer DMLC ’59 Gibbon MN

William Bernhardt NWC ’64 Kenosha WI

F RO

M THE

HE

OF

S

RI

T H E WO

F THE PR AI T O

RL

!

AR

D

Education Major

E

HE HE TO T AR

T

Going Student Teaching?

Just Walk down the Hill

6:00 pm Supper 7:00 pm Chapel 7:30 pm Tutoring: Sarah meets with a local fourth grade girl Wednesday nights, assisting her with reading and math (pictured).

8:30 pm Homework: “I usually put in an hour or more per class period.”

10:30 pm Bedtime: She usually hits the sack between 12 and 1, but because tomorrow is her all-day clinical at Washington Elementary in New Ulm, she adheres to the earlier “teacher bedtime.” At Washington she works with special education students under the supervision of Joyce Resoft, who’s WELS. “It’s a great opportunity to see how a WELS teacher works in a public school. I start the day in the grade 4-6 special education room, and then I go with a student to their regular classroom, assisting them with the work. I see maybe four different teachers throughout the day.”

In addition to junior clinical, she taught grades 7-8 at Pilgrim—Menomonee Falls WI during spring break this year. Last year, she taught grades 3-4 at Risen Savior— Milwaukee (pictured). And next year, she’ll student teach.

Before she knows it, Call Day will arrive, and Sarah will find out just where the Lord of the Church will put her and her many gifts to use for the gospel.

Brian Schuessler MLC ’04 Livonia MI

Rosemarie Kionka DMLC ’64 Saginaw MI

Beginning in the 1890s, DMLC students in their second normal year walked down the Center Street hill (pictured, c.1912) to the former St. Paul’s school building kittycorner from the present church on State Street. They taught classes at St. Paul Lutheran School to gain practical experience. In 1923, a classroom at St. Paul’s was deemed the official “practice room,” where DMLC students spent much larger blocks of time with the children. In 1964, Professor Howard Wessel changed the entire look of the program by expanding it to a full eight weeks and by sending students not only to St. Paul’s, but also to schools in Appleton and Watertown WI. Many other schools in Wisconsin, Illinois, Michigan, and Minnesota were added soon after.

This system continues today with some adaptations: All education majors complete scores of hours of early field experience in addition to student teaching. Secondary education majors student teach in high schools. And for the last two years, we’ve sent students outside the Midwest. Four students taught in Washington in 2007-2008, and four taught in Florida in 2008-2009.

Carl Henkel NWC ’69 Menomonie WI

Jerome Wolff MLC ’04 Caledonia MN

7

A Wednesday with

tarr d av i d s ta rr

A junior in the preseminary program, David Starr (Trinity—Bay City MI) spends many hours grappling with Scripture in the original Greek and Hebrew, but this semester he’s also analyzing Shakespeare’s comedies, Einstein’s theories, and Reaganomics. MLC’s liberal arts education will help David become a pastor who’s firmly grounded in the Word and who also can think critically and converse intelligently on a wide range of topics. He starts early on Wednesdays: 7:55 am History of Science with Professor Martin Sponholz: “We start with Aristotle and Socrates in this class and now we’re at Einstein,” David says. “We learn the basics of evolution and how it’s infiltrated everything in the world of science.”

8:50 am US History since 1945 with Professor Brian Dose: “It’s good to learn why things are the way they are today—and to keep up on current events too.”

9:45 am Free Hour: Time to grab a bagel in the cafeteria or chat with a professor, like Dan Balge (pictured). Part of MLC’s “other curriculum,” the one undocumented in the catalog, is the availability of the professors and the advising, the mentoring, the quiet modeling they provide.

10:45 am Chapel: “It’s good to see all the professors I have for class getting up to preach as I look forward to doing that in my ministry as well someday. I like listening to Danell— great organization. And Koelpin—he almost performs his sermons. And Paustian—he knows just when to pause, when to get soft, when to speak up again.”

8

Cynthia Schultz DMLC ’79 Chicago IL

Angela Scharf MLC ’99 West Allis WI

Preseminary Studies

11:10 am Shakespeare: Comedies and Histories with Professor Larry Czer: “It’s a lot of reading.” Fortunately, that hour before chapel gave him time to glance again at a couple scenes from Henry IV while downing his bagel.

12:05 pm St. John’s Gospel (Greek) with Professor Daniel Balge: “We went through all the basics of Greek the first couple years, and last semester we read The Iliad.

Now I’m really enjoying it as we start to go through the books of the Bible.” Note: Wednesday is his only Hebrew-free day—as far as class with Professor Thomas Nass goes. That doesn’t mean he won’t be spending some time with his qal and nifal forms tonight though. “Once I got used to the Hebrew alphabet, it became almost easier than Greek. I like languages.”

1:00 pm Lunch: He’s done with classes but he’s got a lot of studying: “about two hours of Hebrew every day; one hour of Greek; and lots of reading for Shakespeare, U.S. History, and Science.”

4:00 pm Shifting Gears: If it were September, he’d be at football practice. If it were January, he’d probably be reffing some grade school basketball games. But today he’ll play some tennis or softball, or run down to “Plaza,” the local Mexican restaurant, for chips and salsa.

6:15 pm Supper 7:00 pm Evening Chapel: On April 14, he took his turn delivering evening chapel (pictured). His text was Ephesians 5:25-32. “Yeah, I was really nervous.” This was the first time he’d delivered chapel at MLC, but

Sarah Lowery MLC ’99 Rapid City SD

Kent Holz NWC ’94 Belle Plaine MN

LD

M THE

HE

S

RI

OF

F THE PR AI T O

T H E WO R

F RO

AR

!

E

HE HE TO T AR

T

Far left: Aaron Krause was assigned in May 2006 to Bethany, Manitowoc WI. Lori Meyer (Ascension, Plymouth MN) was assigned in December 2006 to ChristSt. Peter, Milwaukee.

Practicing Proper Deportment

he’d had a little practice his senior year at Michigan Lutheran Seminary, and the approval of his advisor, Professor David Sellnow, gave him confidence too.

7:15 pm Library: “After chapel the library becomes a social mecca for campus.” He studies, yes, but let’s call it a social study. On certain winter nights, though, you won’t find him in the library but the gym, where he’s a member of the male cheerleaders, a group with roots at Northwestern College whose stunts—slightly off, superbly funny—turn the timeouts and halftimes at basketball games into comedy riffs.

10:00 pm Dorm: Time to enjoy a movie or play some video games with his roommates before bed—although a midnight run for double cheeseburgers isn’t out of the question either. He’ll need his strength for the Hebrew quiz tomorrow.

This Summer: David is serving as director of Project Share (pictured), a joint venture of the Midland, Bay City, and Saginaw congregations. “We provide Bible studies in prisons and homeless shelters, as well as help ex-cons in the transition from prison to life on the outside. We also may be starting a mentoring program with kids at risk in the local public school.” It’s the kind of early ministry experience that many MLC students engage in, allowing them to do ministry while they’re training for ministry.

Robert Wasserman NWC ’89 Maple Lake MN

The early college catalogs listed dos and don’ts for the students, beginning with such basics as “proper deportment” and “proper dress,” which these students of 1908 (pictured) apparently did not take too seriously.

The first catalog in 1884 included 27 regulations, including the following: • No disorderly noise on campus • No outside games on Sundays • No conversing or throwing things from the windows • No visiting eating houses where intoxicating spirits are sold • No cards or games of chance • No tobacco without permission from the president • No bathing in the river without permission from the faculty • No attending balls or theatrical exhibitions • No leaving campus without the permission of the president

David Clark NWC ’79 Detroit MI

John Dolan NWC ’74 Zion IL

Jean Beilke DMLC ’69 Morgan MN

9

A Wednesday with

ha steph anie humann

An early childhood education (ECE) major, Stephanie Humann (Holy Trinity—Des Moines WA) is training to meet one of the synod’s most pressing needs: qualified teachers of children ages 0-8. Early childhood education is the fastest growing ministry in WELS; in fact, the number of early childhood ministries exceeds the number of elementary schools and, according to the MLC Governing Board, more ECE teachers are needed.

7:55 am Teaching Literacy II with Dr. Cindy Whaley: After a quick bagel in the cafeteria (pictured), she plunges into methods and resources to develop literacy in primary-grade children.

8:50 am Foundations in Early Childhood Education with Professor Susan Haar: In this study of the philosophy underlying ECE, students learn very quickly that teaching young children is not glorified babysitting, nor is it a simplified version of teaching middle grades.

“It is amazing to see the development of early childhood education and how it is still changing and growing to this day,” she says. “It is such an important ministry, and I admire the people who really pushed for it to happen.”

9:45 am Administration of Early Childhood Programs, again with Professor Haar: MLC graduates are sometimes assigned immediately as directors—think “principals”—of ECE programs, where they not only have to develop curriculum, but also set policy, meet a proliferation of government regulations, create budgets, promote the program within the congregation, and—oh,

10

William Arras DMLC ’34 Saginaw MI

Jeffrey Spangenberg DMLC ’84 New Ulm MN

yes—teach the children. This course shows students how to handle these duties faithfully.

10:45 am Chapel: “Your faith definitely matures here.

I feel like I’m always growing through chapel, Bible study, talks with Christian friends.”

11:10 am Christian Doctrine II with Professor Lyle Lange: “It is a blessing to have such knowledgeable professors, not only for methods courses, but also for biblical courses.”

12:05 pm Lunch 1:00 pm Primary Curriculum with Professor Cheryl Loomis: “I love Professor Loomis’s classes. She has such practical knowledge and applications. Primary Curriculum was a great opportunity to get a taste of teaching!”

2-3:30 pm Work-Study Job: Stephanie is fortunate to have an on-campus job in the financial aid office (pictured) to help with tuition.

4:00 pm Track Practice: It’s spring, and that means track practice. Stephanie runs sprints and mid-distance races. If it were fall or winter, she’d be playing intramural volleyball or basketball.

5:30 pm Supper: A shower, a salad, and a chance to catch her breath.

7:00 pm Evening Chapel

Gretchen Kempf DMLC ’89 Viroqua WI

Ruth Lorenz DMLC ’34 New Ulm MN

M THE

HE

S

OF

F THE PR AI T O

RI

LD

F RO

T H E WO R

!

AR

Early Childhood Education Major

E

HE HE TO T AR

T

Far left: Aaron Krause was assigned in May 2006 to Bethany, Manitowoc WI. Lori Meyer (Ascension, Plymouth MN) was assigned in December 2006 to ChristSt. Peter, Milwaukee.

7:15 pm Study: She’ll hang in the library for a few hours. Tomorrow she only has two classes, Music Technology at noon and Educating the Exceptional Child at 2, so she’ll be studying mostly for Friday classes, which match today’s.

College Admits Women

10:00 pm Socializing: She and her friends do a quick survey: “What should we do—bowl a few games at Kegel, get some half-price appetizers at Applebee’s, or just watch a movie in our room?”

Midnight: A little more cramming for Educating the Exceptional Child tomorrow. “It’s interesting. We discuss how kids learn differently and how to create curriculum to meet their individual needs.”

1 am Bed: It’s late, but she says, “Tomorrow I can sleep in till 10 if I want.”

This Summer: Stephanie is doing a 9-week summer ministry experience, traveling throughout Wisconsin, Minnesota, South Dakota, Washington, and maybe Oregon, assisting churches with their Jesus Cares Ministries in conjunction with the Lutheran Home Association of Belle Plaine MN. Jesus Cares Ministries is an outreach ministry that serves people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Stephen Schamber NWC ’89 Yankton SD

John Raabe NWC ’34 New Ulm MN

DMLC opened its doors to women in 1896. That same year a teacher named Wedekind presented an essay at a Wisconsin teachers’ conference in which he said: “Although German educators do not approve of teaching as a profession for women, many of our congregations appoint female teachers because the salaries are lower. Some even think it is best for little children away from their mother’s care for the first time to be under a woman teacher. But that is a big mistake. Every experienced educator knows that the instruction of little ones—which must lay the foundation for the whole school— presents the greatest problem and requires the services of a trained schoolmaster.”

In spite of some dissension in the ranks—and the general belief that higher education made women unfit for marriage and motherhood—DMLC graduated its first “co-ed,” Lillian Mohr, in 1898.

The women pictured were students in 1911.

Kristi Jacobs DMLC ’89 Lansing MI

Faith Kurbis MLC ’04 Tacoma WA

11

A Wednesday with

re andr ew schmiege

With two years of college left, the résumé of Andrew Schmiege (Christ—Oakley MI) already drips with versatility: he’s a double major in elementary education and secondary Spanish education with an eclectic set of college credits. His schedule this semester includes Lutheran Confessions, two foreign languages, a heavy dose of methods courses, and a full day of clinical experience teaching science and English to 6th graders in St. James. Oh—and he plays piano and sings in choir as well. After coffee in the cafeteria, his day begins:

10:45 am Chapel

9:15 am Piano Lesson with Instructor Bethel Boeder: He isn’t planning on a career as a recitalist, but looking ahead to his ministry he says modestly, “Someday I might have to punch out some notes on the piano.”

1:00 pm Lunch: He likes the Special K bars.

9:45 am Teaching Foreign Language with Professor Paul Bases, a class that introduces him to instructional resources and strategies he can use in his classroom someday: “It’s just seven students and Professor Bases. We did our immersion experience in Ecuador together. The class is very real. Rigorous, but practical.”

One distinction of MLC’s Spanish program is demonstrated by the title of another course Andrew took: Communicating Christ in Spanish. “I’ve already used the Spanish I learned during Communicating Christ in Ecuador while speaking with a teacher. The religious vocabulary is key to accurately conveying Jesus’ love.”

12

Carlton Palenske NWC ’54 Toledo OH

Ellen Klatt DMLC ’69 Hazel SD

Seco

11:10 am Lutheran Confessional Writings with Dr. Mark Lenz: We’re a confessional Lutheran church, and this study of the confessions of the Book of Concord is required.

12:05 pm Latin (Aeneid) with Instructor Karl Valleskey: Spanish is demanding enough. Why another language?

“It enhances my Spanish,” he says, “and what’s more, my Spanish enhances my Latin! I love languages.”

2:00 pm College Chorale with Professor Kurt Wittmershaus: “It feels good to sing in a good choir.

Someday I’ll maybe direct kids in a choir.”

2:50 pm Teaching Reading with Dr. Cindy Whaley: “For a teacher, this is the most important class an MLC student will take. It’s not only a class about teaching reading, but teaching in general. I especially found it useful because teaching first-year Spanish students is very similar to teaching first and second graders how to read. Dr. Whaley is a very passionate teacher, which is always very motivating for an upcoming teacher.”

3:45 pm A Change of Pace: “I might work out in the fitness center or run to Mankato and donate some plasma”—one way to earn cash for books and tuition.

Nancy Ebert DMLC ’69 Reedsville WI

Carol Gieseke DMLC ’44 New Ulm MN

Rebecca Seeger taught English as a foreign language in Southeast Asia from August 2006 to the present.

What is the Higher Learning Commission?

It is one of six regional accreditation agencies in the United States. The United States Department of Education recognizes the Higher Learning Commission as the accreditator of colleges and universities in 19 Midwestern states. It evaluates a college’s governance and administration, organizational effectiveness, financial stability, resources, admissions and student services, student academic achievement, and relationships with outside constituencies.

By Jennifer Joecks—Southeast Asia

[Excerpt] Smoke and incense filled the air, making it difficult to breathe in the crowded room. Worshippers pushed through the temple carrying sticks of incense and flaming candles. The scenes that day were hard to watch.

Toddlers lifted to touch images of stone. Mothers helping children light incense. Fathers demonstrating how to bow before idols. Teenagers placing offerings at the feet of man-made statues. Hands folded in prayer, petitioning deaf and lifeless ears. . . . I have the honor of leading them out of the clouds of incense, past the golden statues, to the One who provides lasting hope and peace. . . .

LD S

2009 Thalassa

important for many reasons, including the following.

Twenty international teachers entered our third annual Thalassa Prize

• Only students who attend accredited colleges and universities are eligible for federal and state financial aid. In 2008-09, 70% of MLC students received government financial aid grants or loans.

competition, sending us photos and written reflections on their ministries overseas. Thalassa [THAH-lah-sah] is Greek for “the sea.” This year’s Thalassa Prize winner is Rachel Meyer. The $1000 prize, given by an anonymous donor, has been divided between Ms. Meyer and her mission choice.

Although MLC Daylight International teachers serve in about 10 different countries this year, the 2009 entrants were predominantly from Southeast Asia.

School Schedule in 1914

• Graduation from an accredited undergraduate institution is an expectation for admission into graduate schools.

6:15 pm Supper

• Credits earned at an accredited institution transfer to other institutions.

7:00 pm Chapel

• Graduation from an accredited college or university is a prerequisite for obtaining state teaching licenses.

7:30 pm Library: One homework item among many on tonight’s list: “I have to read a 190-page book for Children’s Literature and prepare a lesson.”

• We live in a credentialed society in which people judge quality by credentials.

Graduation from an accredited institution provides evidence of the degree’s quality.

9:30 pm Dorm: “We might play some NCAA football on a video game, or maybe I’ll do a little more homework.

Probably the first option.”

11:30 pm Cafeteria: It’s open till midnight, so he’s got time to grab a quick pop and hotdog before bed.

Tomorrow his classes don’t start until 9:45, so he can sleep in a bit.

How did MLC prepare for the accreditation visit? A self-study steering committee directed the study. Members of the faculty, staff, and student body served on committees to gather evidence that demonstrated how well the college met the accreditation criteria. MLC students and faculty, Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary students and faculty, graduates, principals, and laypeople were surveyed. The National Survey of Student Engagement, the Student Satisfaction Inventory, the college’s strategic planning results, and the college’s assessment data were also used to provide evidence of the college’s effectiveness. Self-study work began in October 2006 and culminated with the writing of the self-study report and the accreditation team visit in 2009.

“Constant Companion”

A typical Wednesday schedule for DMLC students in 1914 ended at lunch. In fact, until as late as 1970, students had half days on Wednesdays and Saturdays.

Looking Ahead: In the next two years, he’ll student teach in both elementary and high school. His training in Spanish education is gaining momentum, and his desire to develop his gifts in service to God permeates his thoughts: “This summer I’m going to go to Ecuador for Spanish immersion again (pictured). I don’t have to, but I want to do it. After I graduate, maybe I’ll go teach in Colombia and then get my master’s in Spanish.” Whatever he chooses, you can sense that God has blessed him with a drive for excellence, and he wants to prepare himself as well as possible for that day when he enters the public ministry—in a classroom of sixth graders or sophomores, Spanish speakers or not.

2 0 0 9 W I NNE R

2 0 0 9 R u n n e r- U P

T H E WO R OF

He explains what the commission is, what the visiting team said, and why their evaluation is important for MLC as we train pastors, teachers, and staff ministers for public ministry in the WELS.

“Life for the Lost” 2 0 0 9 R u n n e r- U P

2 0 0 9 R u n n e r- U P

InFocus asked Dr. David Wendler for his thoughts on the Higher Learning Commission’s visit. In addition to serving as the MLC Vice President for Academics, Dr. Wendler also serves on the Higher Learning Commission himself, as a consultant-evaluator who leads visiting teams to other colleges.

T

Mary Balza taught English as a foreign language to middle school and high school students in Southeast Asia from November 2006 to June 2008.

[Excerpt] . . . Although we stood only a few feet away from them, there was a chasm between us. Our differences were as marked as night and day: white skin vs. yellow, rich vs. not-enough-money-to-buy-soap poor, English vs. Lisu dialect, age vs. youth. We were separated by an entire culture, but curiously united by something much stronger. The same Spirit, who took us out of our spiritual poverty and gave us the incredible riches of His Grace, did the same for them. . . .

HE HE TO T AR

[Excerpt] . . . All people are traveling on the road of life.

For those who know Jesus, that road leads to heaven. . .

Sadly, at this time, the majority of the 1.3 billion people living in this country still do not know Christ. The good news is that many of those people are open to hearing the gospel and more and more people are coming to faith every day! . . . Only God knows when or if that road will end. Only God knows when the road of each person’s life will come to an end. . . . The time to go and tell them is now, before the end of the road!

By Rebecca Seeger—Southeast Asia

Why is accreditation important to MLC and MLC graduates? Accreditation is

E

The Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools awarded a ten-year continuation of MLC’s accreditation on June 25, the pronouncement a result of their March 30-April 1 campus evaluation visit. The five-member team consisted of Dr. Beth Jernberg (chair), Professor of Education, University of Sioux Falls, Sioux Falls SD; Dr. Cheryl Jacobsen, Provost and Academic Dean, Loras College, Dubuque IA; Dr. Carol Ann Mooney, President, St. Mary’s College, Notre Dame IN; Dr. Jacci Rodgers, Professor and Chair of Accounting and Information Technology, Oklahoma City University, Oklahoma City OK; and Dr. Ronald Shope, Professor of Communication and Research/Director of Assessment & Institutional Research, Grace University, Omaha NE.

“Separated but United”

By Mary Balza—Southeast Asia

HE

RI

MLC’s Third Annual Contest

“The End of the Road”

M THE

F THE PR AI T O

Prize

F RO

AR

MLC Awarded Ten-YearSecondary Spanish Education Major

!

In a 1914 Messenger, a student writes more about the typical schedule for the college “boys”—a schedule that looks surprisingly like that of a preparatory school student today.

6:00 am: Wake-up by tower bells 6:20 am: Chapel Breakfast (The author mentions his favorite comfort food, kneep, or syrup.)

Make beds, sweep rooms, get ready for class 7:30 am: Bells ring for English Chapel, which included town students 8:00 am: Five 40-minute “recitation” periods in Recitation Hall (Old Main) 11:50 am: Dinner, rest, and relaxation 1:20 pm: Four more recitation, or class, periods 4:00 pm: Free time—many of the “boys” went downtown to the “sweet shops” 6:00 pm: Supper 7:00 pm: Study hall 9:00 pm: Evening chapel 10:00 pm: Lights out

By Rachel Meyer—Southeast Asia A young girl shuffled along a rustic path. Ignoring the beauty in the surrounding mountaintops, she focused on the small distractions. She whimpered when the steps became too high or when a strong wind blew in her face.

Her father accompanied her on this short journey. He never left her side. Clutching a large load over his shoulder, he placed his free hand behind her, carefully leading her along the uneven stones. Amazingly, his guidance went unnoticed by his young child.

To many, life seems unbearable. They are tired and saddened, concentrating on the trials of this hopeless world. Blind with unbelief, they fail to notice a companion who lowered himself to give them peace. To share the good news is a command and the responsibility of all believers.

Opportunities to fulfill this command are as plentiful as there are people in the world.

In my work here, I am blessed to share the news about our ever-present Friend. While some analyze, others cling to His promises and the new clarity which permeate their lives. Only the Good Shepherd knows when true faith is planted in a person’s heart, and I rejoice when He gives me evidence. A friend reflected upon His saving work as she left study. While tying her Converse shoes, she confessed, “Some days I feel like I can’t do it, but then I am very confident when I remember that it is He who makes me brave to face everything in life. I hear Him say to me tonight, ‘Go in peace.’”

Until we reach our final destination, our constant Companion guides our earthly walk with an abiding peace that never departs from those whom He loves.

Go into all the world and preach the good news to all creation. Mark 16:15

Jennifer Joecks has worked in Southeast Asia from September 2007 to the present.

19

20

Rebecca Schultz DMLC ’79 Juneau WI

Robert Bitter NWC ’64 Millersville WI

John Gawrisch NWC ’74 Mequon WI

Rosalie Radue DMLC ’64 Maribel WI

Lenore Thurow DMLC ’39 Menomonie MI

Mark Wenzel NWC ’84 West Allis WI

Dawn Reckzin DMLC ’84 Nepean, Ontario CN

Bernard Kuschel NWC ’39 Pound WI

132

14

Praise Him for never leaving us alone.

Rachel Meyer taught English as a foreign language to grades 7-9 in Southeast Asia from August 2007 to June 2009.

Rebecca Seeger taught English as a foreign language in Southeast Asia from August 2006 to the present.

What is the Higher Learning Commission?

It is one of six regional accreditation agencies in the United States. The United States Department of Education recognizes the Higher Learning Commission as the accreditator of colleges and universities in 19 Midwestern states. It evaluates a college’s governance and administration, organizational effectiveness, financial stability, resources, admissions and student services, student academic achievement, and relationships with outside constituencies.

By Jennifer Joecks—Southeast Asia

[Excerpt] Smoke and incense filled the air, making it difficult to breathe in the crowded room. Worshippers pushed through the temple carrying sticks of incense and flaming candles. The scenes that day were hard to watch.

Toddlers lifted to touch images of stone. Mothers helping children light incense. Fathers demonstrating how to bow before idols. Teenagers placing offerings at the feet of man-made statues. Hands folded in prayer, petitioning deaf and lifeless ears. . . . I have the honor of leading them out of the clouds of incense, past the golden statues, to the One who provides lasting hope and peace. . . .

LD S

2009 Thalassa

important for many reasons, including the following.

Twenty international teachers entered our third annual Thalassa Prize

• Only students who attend accredited colleges and universities are eligible for federal and state financial aid. In 2008-09, 70% of MLC students received government financial aid grants or loans.

competition, sending us photos and written reflections on their ministries overseas. Thalassa [THAH-lah-sah] is Greek for “the sea.” This year’s Thalassa Prize winner is Rachel Meyer. The $1000 prize, given by an anonymous donor, has been divided between Ms. Meyer and her mission choice.

Although MLC Daylight International teachers serve in about 10 different countries this year, the 2009 entrants were predominantly from Southeast Asia.

School Schedule in 1914

• Graduation from an accredited undergraduate institution is an expectation for admission into graduate schools.

6:15 pm Supper

• Credits earned at an accredited institution transfer to other institutions.

7:00 pm Chapel

• Graduation from an accredited college or university is a prerequisite for obtaining state teaching licenses.

7:30 pm Library: One homework item among many on tonight’s list: “I have to read a 190-page book for Children’s Literature and prepare a lesson.”

• We live in a credentialed society in which people judge quality by credentials.

Graduation from an accredited institution provides evidence of the degree’s quality.

9:30 pm Dorm: “We might play some NCAA football on a video game, or maybe I’ll do a little more homework.

Probably the first option.”

11:30 pm Cafeteria: It’s open till midnight, so he’s got time to grab a quick pop and hotdog before bed.

Tomorrow his classes don’t start until 9:45, so he can sleep in a bit.

How did MLC prepare for the accreditation visit? A self-study steering committee directed the study. Members of the faculty, staff, and student body served on committees to gather evidence that demonstrated how well the college met the accreditation criteria. MLC students and faculty, Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary students and faculty, graduates, principals, and laypeople were surveyed. The National Survey of Student Engagement, the Student Satisfaction Inventory, the college’s strategic planning results, and the college’s assessment data were also used to provide evidence of the college’s effectiveness. Self-study work began in October 2006 and culminated with the writing of the self-study report and the accreditation team visit in 2009.

“Constant Companion”

A typical Wednesday schedule for DMLC students in 1914 ended at lunch. In fact, until as late as 1970, students had half days on Wednesdays and Saturdays.

Looking Ahead: In the next two years, he’ll student teach in both elementary and high school. His training in Spanish education is gaining momentum, and his desire to develop his gifts in service to God permeates his thoughts: “This summer I’m going to go to Ecuador for Spanish immersion again (pictured). I don’t have to, but I want to do it. After I graduate, maybe I’ll go teach in Colombia and then get my master’s in Spanish.” Whatever he chooses, you can sense that God has blessed him with a drive for excellence, and he wants to prepare himself as well as possible for that day when he enters the public ministry—in a classroom of sixth graders or sophomores, Spanish speakers or not.

2 0 0 9 W I NNE R

2 0 0 9 R u n n e r- U P

T H E WO R OF

He explains what the commission is, what the visiting team said, and why their evaluation is important for MLC as we train pastors, teachers, and staff ministers for public ministry in the WELS.

“Life for the Lost” 2 0 0 9 R u n n e r- U P

2 0 0 9 R u n n e r- U P

InFocus asked Dr. David Wendler for his thoughts on the Higher Learning Commission’s visit. In addition to serving as the MLC Vice President for Academics, Dr. Wendler also serves on the Higher Learning Commission himself, as a consultant-evaluator who leads visiting teams to other colleges.

T

Mary Balza taught English as a foreign language to middle school and high school students in Southeast Asia from November 2006 to June 2008.

[Excerpt] . . . Although we stood only a few feet away from them, there was a chasm between us. Our differences were as marked as night and day: white skin vs. yellow, rich vs. not-enough-money-to-buy-soap poor, English vs. Lisu dialect, age vs. youth. We were separated by an entire culture, but curiously united by something much stronger. The same Spirit, who took us out of our spiritual poverty and gave us the incredible riches of His Grace, did the same for them. . . .

HE HE TO T AR

[Excerpt] . . . All people are traveling on the road of life.

For those who know Jesus, that road leads to heaven. . .

Sadly, at this time, the majority of the 1.3 billion people living in this country still do not know Christ. The good news is that many of those people are open to hearing the gospel and more and more people are coming to faith every day! . . . Only God knows when or if that road will end. Only God knows when the road of each person’s life will come to an end. . . . The time to go and tell them is now, before the end of the road!

By Rebecca Seeger—Southeast Asia

Why is accreditation important to MLC and MLC graduates? Accreditation is

E

The Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools awarded a ten-year continuation of MLC’s accreditation on June 25, the pronouncement a result of their March 30-April 1 campus evaluation visit. The five-member team consisted of Dr. Beth Jernberg (chair), Professor of Education, University of Sioux Falls, Sioux Falls SD; Dr. Cheryl Jacobsen, Provost and Academic Dean, Loras College, Dubuque IA; Dr. Carol Ann Mooney, President, St. Mary’s College, Notre Dame IN; Dr. Jacci Rodgers, Professor and Chair of Accounting and Information Technology, Oklahoma City University, Oklahoma City OK; and Dr. Ronald Shope, Professor of Communication and Research/Director of Assessment & Institutional Research, Grace University, Omaha NE.

“Separated but United”

By Mary Balza—Southeast Asia

HE

RI

MLC’s Third Annual Contest

“The End of the Road”

M THE

F THE PR AI T O

Prize

F RO

AR

MLC Awarded Ten-YearSecondary Spanish Education Major

!

In a 1914 Messenger, a student writes more about the typical schedule for the college “boys”—a schedule that looks surprisingly like that of a preparatory school student today.

6:00 am: Wake-up by tower bells 6:20 am: Chapel Breakfast (The author mentions his favorite comfort food, kneep, or syrup.)

Make beds, sweep rooms, get ready for class 7:30 am: Bells ring for English Chapel, which included town students 8:00 am: Five 40-minute “recitation” periods in Recitation Hall (Old Main) 11:50 am: Dinner, rest, and relaxation 1:20 pm: Four more recitation, or class, periods 4:00 pm: Free time—many of the “boys” went downtown to the “sweet shops” 6:00 pm: Supper 7:00 pm: Study hall 9:00 pm: Evening chapel 10:00 pm: Lights out

By Rachel Meyer—Southeast Asia A young girl shuffled along a rustic path. Ignoring the beauty in the surrounding mountaintops, she focused on the small distractions. She whimpered when the steps became too high or when a strong wind blew in her face.

Her father accompanied her on this short journey. He never left her side. Clutching a large load over his shoulder, he placed his free hand behind her, carefully leading her along the uneven stones. Amazingly, his guidance went unnoticed by his young child.

To many, life seems unbearable. They are tired and saddened, concentrating on the trials of this hopeless world. Blind with unbelief, they fail to notice a companion who lowered himself to give them peace. To share the good news is a command and the responsibility of all believers.

Opportunities to fulfill this command are as plentiful as there are people in the world.

In my work here, I am blessed to share the news about our ever-present Friend. While some analyze, others cling to His promises and the new clarity which permeate their lives. Only the Good Shepherd knows when true faith is planted in a person’s heart, and I rejoice when He gives me evidence. A friend reflected upon His saving work as she left study. While tying her Converse shoes, she confessed, “Some days I feel like I can’t do it, but then I am very confident when I remember that it is He who makes me brave to face everything in life. I hear Him say to me tonight, ‘Go in peace.’”

Until we reach our final destination, our constant Companion guides our earthly walk with an abiding peace that never departs from those whom He loves.

Go into all the world and preach the good news to all creation. Mark 16:15

Jennifer Joecks has worked in Southeast Asia from September 2007 to the present.

19

20

Rebecca Schultz DMLC ’79 Juneau WI

Robert Bitter NWC ’64 Millersville WI

John Gawrisch NWC ’74 Mequon WI

Rosalie Radue DMLC ’64 Maribel WI

Lenore Thurow DMLC ’39 Menomonie MI

Mark Wenzel NWC ’84 West Allis WI

Dawn Reckzin DMLC ’84 Nepean, Ontario CN

Bernard Kuschel NWC ’39 Pound WI

132

14

Praise Him for never leaving us alone.

Rachel Meyer taught English as a foreign language to grades 7-9 in Southeast Asia from August 2007 to June 2009.

JulyAugustSeptemberOctoberNovemberDecemberJanuaryFebruaryMarchAprilMayJune

A Year InFocus

Readers’ Theater: Frankenstein Radio

More than 2000 fans attended “Fun, Friends, and Football” at Luther Prep’s Umnus Field.

Honored at halftime were alumni football players from all three of our colleges: NWC Trojans, DMLC Lancers, and MLC Knights.

MLC Alumni Association Board adopts constitution at Homecoming. The group set priorities and planned events, including a July Alumni Reunion Weekend.

Musical: Students present the original musical The Sundance Kid, written

by MLC students Kent Reeder and Dan Johnston.

Wind Symphony presents first concert. Four other concerts and a tour of the Midwest will fill out their season.

2008-2009 school year begins

“We cannot help speaking about what we have seen and heard” is the theme of the fourth annual Evangelism Day at MLC, featuring presentations by dozens of pastors, missionaries, and teachers, including keynote speaker Pastor Tim Soukup.

Higher Learning Commission recommends renewed MLC accreditation for 10 years.

The 62-member College Choir finishes their tour to 10 congregations and three Lutheran high schools in Michigan and Wisconsin.

On May 16, 139 undergraduates and four graduate students earned their degrees.

Men’s cross country team takes UMAC championship, their ninth title in 11 years. Professor Mark Paustian named UMAC Coach of the Year for fourth time.

The Late Knight Show: Students skate through cold and crazy Winter Carnival.

Professor Lori Unke earns UMAC Volleyball Coach of the Year.

Hamlet presented by Forum in Outdoor Classical Theater.

Next year students can register for a new major: secondary life science education.

Children’s Theater Three Fairy Godmothers seen by 6,000 people.

Ballroom Blast—including mixers, speed dating, and dancing— enjoyed by first-year students.

Fall sports—soccer, golf, cross country, volleyball, and football—enjoy successful seasons in the UMAC. Students, alumni, and visitors enjoy Homecoming at MLC: football, soccer, cross country, talent show, and competitions (Iron Chef, Mr. Concord, and the Amazing Race).

View this DVD to discover

DVD Compatibility:

the exciting opportunities MLC can offer you . . . on campus, off campus, and around the world!

Ese dolum ent praestrud el ea autpat prat.Ipsummodit venit, sit, quamcon volor sequis ea

©Martin Luther College 2008

Focus on Ministry welcomes 164 high school students to talk about ministry and get a taste of college life. Several hundred more attend similar events later in the year.

Knights basketball fans cheer their team with “White-Out Night” and “Black-Out Night.”

Campus Arbor Day

Ladies’ Auxiliary holds annual meeting at MLC and adopts project list. Year-end gifts will total more than $11,000.

Men’s golf takes home first-ever championship.

Professor Larry Lotito named UMAC Coach of the Year.

All choirs and instrumental groups praise the newborn Christ at annual Christmas Concert, which closes with the traditional “O Jesus Christ, Your Manger Is.”

Professor John Gronholz appointed to the steering committee of “Heart of New Ulm,” a $40 million heart health project sponsored by the Minnesota Heart Institute and Allina Health. First health screens will be done on MLC campus.

Many speakers visited campus this year, including the following: Reactive Attachment Disorder: Dr. Alan Spurgeon, Vicar Year: Joe Koelpin and Ben Enstad, Writing Children’s Books: Jill Kalz, Hmong Outreach: Pastor Leon Piepenbrink, Gambling Addictions: Pastor David Koelpin, Mexico: Missionary Mike Hartman, Personal and Relational Safety: Counselor Anita Smith, Lutheran Schools for Outreach: Dr. Gene Pfeifer, WELS Pastoral Ministry: Pastor Vilas Glaeske, First-Year Concerns/Second-Year Confidence: Teacher Jamie Spielbauer, The Pastor and His Family: Pastor Randy Hunter, Making Decisions: Professor Emeritus Daniel Deutschlander

Students enjoy games, bands, and food at the annual Swine Sizzler.

This summer, 75+ MLC students will lend ministry assistance to WELS congregations coast to coast through our Daylight USA program.

Four seniors student teach in Florida. Until last year, when four seniors taught in Washington, students completed their student teaching in Midwestern schools only.

View this DVD to discover the exciting opportunities MLC can offer you . . . on campus, off campus, and around the world!

1995 Luther Court New Ulm, MN 56073

New admissions DVD is produced.

Veterans Day event honors vets from all five service branches and the National Guard.

Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary students travel to MLC for annual WLS-MLC hockey match. Hockey is now an officially sanctioned club team at MLC.

Winter Play: Musical Comedy Murders of 1940

Football team finishes season with most explosive offense in school history, breaking seven offensive records.

First-year education majors enjoy their first EFE, or early field experience, during spring break. Sophomores and juniors complete their EFEs off campus.

Men’s basketball team earns regular season cochampionship, and Professor Jim Unke named UMAC Coach of the Year for second consecutive season.

Spring sports in full swing.

Eighty candidates receive assignments on Call Day.

Campus mourns as firstyear students Zachary Moyle and Ryan Zweifel, both Lakeside Lutheran HS graduates, were called home to heaven after a tragic car accident.

JulyAugustSeptemberOctoberNovemberDecemberJanuaryFebruaryMarchAprilMayJune

A Year InFocus

Readers’ Theater: Frankenstein Radio

More than 2000 fans attended “Fun, Friends, and Football” at Luther Prep’s Umnus Field.

Honored at halftime were alumni football players from all three of our colleges: NWC Trojans, DMLC Lancers, and MLC Knights.

MLC Alumni Association Board adopts constitution at Homecoming. The group set priorities and planned events, including a July Alumni Reunion Weekend.

Musical: Students present the original musical The Sundance Kid, written

by MLC students Kent Reeder and Dan Johnston.

Wind Symphony presents first concert. Four other concerts and a tour of the Midwest will fill out their season.

2008-2009 school year begins

“We cannot help speaking about what we have seen and heard” is the theme of the fourth annual Evangelism Day at MLC, featuring presentations by dozens of pastors, missionaries, and teachers, including keynote speaker Pastor Tim Soukup.

Higher Learning Commission recommends renewed MLC accreditation for 10 years.

The 62-member College Choir finishes their tour to 10 congregations and three Lutheran high schools in Michigan and Wisconsin.

On May 16, 139 undergraduates and four graduate students earned their degrees.

Men’s cross country team takes UMAC championship, their ninth title in 11 years. Professor Mark Paustian named UMAC Coach of the Year for fourth time.

The Late Knight Show: Students skate through cold and crazy Winter Carnival.

Professor Lori Unke earns UMAC Volleyball Coach of the Year.

Hamlet presented by Forum in Outdoor Classical Theater.

Next year students can register for a new major: secondary life science education.

Children’s Theater Three Fairy Godmothers seen by 6,000 people.

Ballroom Blast—including mixers, speed dating, and dancing— enjoyed by first-year students.

Fall sports—soccer, golf, cross country, volleyball, and football—enjoy successful seasons in the UMAC. Students, alumni, and visitors enjoy Homecoming at MLC: football, soccer, cross country, talent show, and competitions (Iron Chef, Mr. Concord, and the Amazing Race).

View this DVD to discover

DVD Compatibility:

the exciting opportunities MLC can offer you . . . on campus, off campus, and around the world!

Ese dolum ent praestrud el ea autpat prat.Ipsummodit venit, sit, quamcon volor sequis ea

©Martin Luther College 2008

Focus on Ministry welcomes 164 high school students to talk about ministry and get a taste of college life. Several hundred more attend similar events later in the year.

Knights basketball fans cheer their team with “White-Out Night” and “Black-Out Night.”

Campus Arbor Day

Ladies’ Auxiliary holds annual meeting at MLC and adopts project list. Year-end gifts will total more than $11,000.

Men’s golf takes home first-ever championship.

Professor Larry Lotito named UMAC Coach of the Year.

All choirs and instrumental groups praise the newborn Christ at annual Christmas Concert, which closes with the traditional “O Jesus Christ, Your Manger Is.”

Professor John Gronholz appointed to the steering committee of “Heart of New Ulm,” a $40 million heart health project sponsored by the Minnesota Heart Institute and Allina Health. First health screens will be done on MLC campus.

Many speakers visited campus this year, including the following: Reactive Attachment Disorder: Dr. Alan Spurgeon, Vicar Year: Joe Koelpin and Ben Enstad, Writing Children’s Books: Jill Kalz, Hmong Outreach: Pastor Leon Piepenbrink, Gambling Addictions: Pastor David Koelpin, Mexico: Missionary Mike Hartman, Personal and Relational Safety: Counselor Anita Smith, Lutheran Schools for Outreach: Dr. Gene Pfeifer, WELS Pastoral Ministry: Pastor Vilas Glaeske, First-Year Concerns/Second-Year Confidence: Teacher Jamie Spielbauer, The Pastor and His Family: Pastor Randy Hunter, Making Decisions: Professor Emeritus Daniel Deutschlander

Students enjoy games, bands, and food at the annual Swine Sizzler.

This summer, 75+ MLC students will lend ministry assistance to WELS congregations coast to coast through our Daylight USA program.

Four seniors student teach in Florida. Until last year, when four seniors taught in Washington, students completed their student teaching in Midwestern schools only.

View this DVD to discover the exciting opportunities MLC can offer you . . . on campus, off campus, and around the world!

1995 Luther Court New Ulm, MN 56073

New admissions DVD is produced.

Veterans Day event honors vets from all five service branches and the National Guard.

Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary students travel to MLC for annual WLS-MLC hockey match. Hockey is now an officially sanctioned club team at MLC.

Winter Play: Musical Comedy Murders of 1940

Football team finishes season with most explosive offense in school history, breaking seven offensive records.

First-year education majors enjoy their first EFE, or early field experience, during spring break. Sophomores and juniors complete their EFEs off campus.

Men’s basketball team earns regular season cochampionship, and Professor Jim Unke named UMAC Coach of the Year for second consecutive season.

Spring sports in full swing.

Eighty candidates receive assignments on Call Day.

Campus mourns as firstyear students Zachary Moyle and Ryan Zweifel, both Lakeside Lutheran HS graduates, were called home to heaven after a tragic car accident.

JulyAugustSeptemberOctoberNovemberDecemberJanuaryFebruaryMarchAprilMayJune

A Year InFocus

Readers’ Theater: Frankenstein Radio

More than 2000 fans attended “Fun, Friends, and Football” at Luther Prep’s Umnus Field.

Honored at halftime were alumni football players from all three of our colleges: NWC Trojans, DMLC Lancers, and MLC Knights.

MLC Alumni Association Board adopts constitution at Homecoming. The group set priorities and planned events, including a July Alumni Reunion Weekend.

Musical: Students present the original musical The Sundance Kid, written

by MLC students Kent Reeder and Dan Johnston.

Wind Symphony presents first concert. Four other concerts and a tour of the Midwest will fill out their season.

2008-2009 school year begins

“We cannot help speaking about what we have seen and heard” is the theme of the fourth annual Evangelism Day at MLC, featuring presentations by dozens of pastors, missionaries, and teachers, including keynote speaker Pastor Tim Soukup.

Higher Learning Commission recommends renewed MLC accreditation for 10 years.

The 62-member College Choir finishes their tour to 10 congregations and three Lutheran high schools in Michigan and Wisconsin.

On May 16, 139 undergraduates and four graduate students earned their degrees.

Men’s cross country team takes UMAC championship, their ninth title in 11 years. Professor Mark Paustian named UMAC Coach of the Year for fourth time.

The Late Knight Show: Students skate through cold and crazy Winter Carnival.

Professor Lori Unke earns UMAC Volleyball Coach of the Year.

Hamlet presented by Forum in Outdoor Classical Theater.

Next year students can register for a new major: secondary life science education.

Children’s Theater Three Fairy Godmothers seen by 6,000 people.

Ballroom Blast—including mixers, speed dating, and dancing— enjoyed by first-year students.

Fall sports—soccer, golf, cross country, volleyball, and football—enjoy successful seasons in the UMAC. Students, alumni, and visitors enjoy Homecoming at MLC: football, soccer, cross country, talent show, and competitions (Iron Chef, Mr. Concord, and the Amazing Race).

View this DVD to discover

DVD Compatibility:

the exciting opportunities MLC can offer you . . . on campus, off campus, and around the world!

Ese dolum ent praestrud el ea autpat prat.Ipsummodit venit, sit, quamcon volor sequis ea

©Martin Luther College 2008

Focus on Ministry welcomes 164 high school students to talk about ministry and get a taste of college life. Several hundred more attend similar events later in the year.

Knights basketball fans cheer their team with “White-Out Night” and “Black-Out Night.”

Campus Arbor Day

Ladies’ Auxiliary holds annual meeting at MLC and adopts project list. Year-end gifts will total more than $11,000.

Men’s golf takes home first-ever championship.

Professor Larry Lotito named UMAC Coach of the Year.

All choirs and instrumental groups praise the newborn Christ at annual Christmas Concert, which closes with the traditional “O Jesus Christ, Your Manger Is.”

Professor John Gronholz appointed to the steering committee of “Heart of New Ulm,” a $40 million heart health project sponsored by the Minnesota Heart Institute and Allina Health. First health screens will be done on MLC campus.

Many speakers visited campus this year, including the following: Reactive Attachment Disorder: Dr. Alan Spurgeon, Vicar Year: Joe Koelpin and Ben Enstad, Writing Children’s Books: Jill Kalz, Hmong Outreach: Pastor Leon Piepenbrink, Gambling Addictions: Pastor David Koelpin, Mexico: Missionary Mike Hartman, Personal and Relational Safety: Counselor Anita Smith, Lutheran Schools for Outreach: Dr. Gene Pfeifer, WELS Pastoral Ministry: Pastor Vilas Glaeske, First-Year Concerns/Second-Year Confidence: Teacher Jamie Spielbauer, The Pastor and His Family: Pastor Randy Hunter, Making Decisions: Professor Emeritus Daniel Deutschlander

Students enjoy games, bands, and food at the annual Swine Sizzler.

This summer, 75+ MLC students will lend ministry assistance to WELS congregations coast to coast through our Daylight USA program.

Four seniors student teach in Florida. Until last year, when four seniors taught in Washington, students completed their student teaching in Midwestern schools only.

View this DVD to discover the exciting opportunities MLC can offer you . . . on campus, off campus, and around the world!

1995 Luther Court New Ulm, MN 56073

New admissions DVD is produced.

Veterans Day event honors vets from all five service branches and the National Guard.

Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary students travel to MLC for annual WLS-MLC hockey match. Hockey is now an officially sanctioned club team at MLC.

Winter Play: Musical Comedy Murders of 1940

Football team finishes season with most explosive offense in school history, breaking seven offensive records.

First-year education majors enjoy their first EFE, or early field experience, during spring break. Sophomores and juniors complete their EFEs off campus.

Men’s basketball team earns regular season cochampionship, and Professor Jim Unke named UMAC Coach of the Year for second consecutive season.

Spring sports in full swing.

Eighty candidates receive assignments on Call Day.

Campus mourns as firstyear students Zachary Moyle and Ryan Zweifel, both Lakeside Lutheran HS graduates, were called home to heaven after a tragic car accident.

JulyAugustSeptemberOctoberNovemberDecemberJanuaryFebruaryMarchAprilMayJune

A Year InFocus

Readers’ Theater: Frankenstein Radio

More than 2000 fans attended “Fun, Friends, and Football” at Luther Prep’s Umnus Field.

Honored at halftime were alumni football players from all three of our colleges: NWC Trojans, DMLC Lancers, and MLC Knights.

MLC Alumni Association Board adopts constitution at Homecoming. The group set priorities and planned events, including a July Alumni Reunion Weekend.

Musical: Students present the original musical The Sundance Kid, written

by MLC students Kent Reeder and Dan Johnston.

Wind Symphony presents first concert. Four other concerts and a tour of the Midwest will fill out their season.

2008-2009 school year begins

“We cannot help speaking about what we have seen and heard” is the theme of the fourth annual Evangelism Day at MLC, featuring presentations by dozens of pastors, missionaries, and teachers, including keynote speaker Pastor Tim Soukup.

Higher Learning Commission recommends renewed MLC accreditation for 10 years.

The 62-member College Choir finishes their tour to 10 congregations and three Lutheran high schools in Michigan and Wisconsin.

On May 16, 139 undergraduates and four graduate students earned their degrees.

Men’s cross country team takes UMAC championship, their ninth title in 11 years. Professor Mark Paustian named UMAC Coach of the Year for fourth time.

The Late Knight Show: Students skate through cold and crazy Winter Carnival.

Professor Lori Unke earns UMAC Volleyball Coach of the Year.

Hamlet presented by Forum in Outdoor Classical Theater.

Next year students can register for a new major: secondary life science education.

Children’s Theater Three Fairy Godmothers seen by 6,000 people.

Ballroom Blast—including mixers, speed dating, and dancing— enjoyed by first-year students.

Fall sports—soccer, golf, cross country, volleyball, and football—enjoy successful seasons in the UMAC. Students, alumni, and visitors enjoy Homecoming at MLC: football, soccer, cross country, talent show, and competitions (Iron Chef, Mr. Concord, and the Amazing Race).

View this DVD to discover

DVD Compatibility:

the exciting opportunities MLC can offer you . . . on campus, off campus, and around the world!

Ese dolum ent praestrud el ea autpat prat.Ipsummodit venit, sit, quamcon volor sequis ea

©Martin Luther College 2008

Focus on Ministry welcomes 164 high school students to talk about ministry and get a taste of college life. Several hundred more attend similar events later in the year.

Knights basketball fans cheer their team with “White-Out Night” and “Black-Out Night.”

Campus Arbor Day

Ladies’ Auxiliary holds annual meeting at MLC and adopts project list. Year-end gifts will total more than $11,000.

Men’s golf takes home first-ever championship.

Professor Larry Lotito named UMAC Coach of the Year.

All choirs and instrumental groups praise the newborn Christ at annual Christmas Concert, which closes with the traditional “O Jesus Christ, Your Manger Is.”

Professor John Gronholz appointed to the steering committee of “Heart of New Ulm,” a $40 million heart health project sponsored by the Minnesota Heart Institute and Allina Health. First health screens will be done on MLC campus.

Many speakers visited campus this year, including the following: Reactive Attachment Disorder: Dr. Alan Spurgeon, Vicar Year: Joe Koelpin and Ben Enstad, Writing Children’s Books: Jill Kalz, Hmong Outreach: Pastor Leon Piepenbrink, Gambling Addictions: Pastor David Koelpin, Mexico: Missionary Mike Hartman, Personal and Relational Safety: Counselor Anita Smith, Lutheran Schools for Outreach: Dr. Gene Pfeifer, WELS Pastoral Ministry: Pastor Vilas Glaeske, First-Year Concerns/Second-Year Confidence: Teacher Jamie Spielbauer, The Pastor and His Family: Pastor Randy Hunter, Making Decisions: Professor Emeritus Daniel Deutschlander

Students enjoy games, bands, and food at the annual Swine Sizzler.

This summer, 75+ MLC students will lend ministry assistance to WELS congregations coast to coast through our Daylight USA program.

Four seniors student teach in Florida. Until last year, when four seniors taught in Washington, students completed their student teaching in Midwestern schools only.

View this DVD to discover the exciting opportunities MLC can offer you . . . on campus, off campus, and around the world!

1995 Luther Court New Ulm, MN 56073

New admissions DVD is produced.

Veterans Day event honors vets from all five service branches and the National Guard.

Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary students travel to MLC for annual WLS-MLC hockey match. Hockey is now an officially sanctioned club team at MLC.

Winter Play: Musical Comedy Murders of 1940

Football team finishes season with most explosive offense in school history, breaking seven offensive records.

First-year education majors enjoy their first EFE, or early field experience, during spring break. Sophomores and juniors complete their EFEs off campus.

Men’s basketball team earns regular season cochampionship, and Professor Jim Unke named UMAC Coach of the Year for second consecutive season.

Spring sports in full swing.

Eighty candidates receive assignments on Call Day.

Campus mourns as firstyear students Zachary Moyle and Ryan Zweifel, both Lakeside Lutheran HS graduates, were called home to heaven after a tragic car accident.

Rebecca Seeger taught English as a foreign language in Southeast Asia from August 2006 to the present.

What is the Higher Learning Commission?

It is one of six regional accreditation agencies in the United States. The United States Department of Education recognizes the Higher Learning Commission as the accreditator of colleges and universities in 19 Midwestern states. It evaluates a college’s governance and administration, organizational effectiveness, financial stability, resources, admissions and student services, student academic achievement, and relationships with outside constituencies.

By Jennifer Joecks—Southeast Asia

[Excerpt] Smoke and incense filled the air, making it difficult to breathe in the crowded room. Worshippers pushed through the temple carrying sticks of incense and flaming candles. The scenes that day were hard to watch.

Toddlers lifted to touch images of stone. Mothers helping children light incense. Fathers demonstrating how to bow before idols. Teenagers placing offerings at the feet of man-made statues. Hands folded in prayer, petitioning deaf and lifeless ears. . . . I have the honor of leading them out of the clouds of incense, past the golden statues, to the One who provides lasting hope and peace. . . .

LD S

2009 Thalassa

important for many reasons, including the following.

Twenty international teachers entered our third annual Thalassa Prize

• Only students who attend accredited colleges and universities are eligible for federal and state financial aid. In 2008-09, 70% of MLC students received government financial aid grants or loans.

competition, sending us photos and written reflections on their ministries overseas. Thalassa [THAH-lah-sah] is Greek for “the sea.” This year’s Thalassa Prize winner is Rachel Meyer. The $1000 prize, given by an anonymous donor, has been divided between Ms. Meyer and her mission choice.

Although MLC Daylight International teachers serve in about 10 different countries this year, the 2009 entrants were predominantly from Southeast Asia.

School Schedule in 1914

• Graduation from an accredited undergraduate institution is an expectation for admission into graduate schools.

6:15 pm Supper

• Credits earned at an accredited institution transfer to other institutions.

7:00 pm Chapel

• Graduation from an accredited college or university is a prerequisite for obtaining state teaching licenses.

7:30 pm Library: One homework item among many on tonight’s list: “I have to read a 190-page book for Children’s Literature and prepare a lesson.”

• We live in a credentialed society in which people judge quality by credentials.

Graduation from an accredited institution provides evidence of the degree’s quality.

9:30 pm Dorm: “We might play some NCAA football on a video game, or maybe I’ll do a little more homework.

Probably the first option.”

11:30 pm Cafeteria: It’s open till midnight, so he’s got time to grab a quick pop and hotdog before bed.

Tomorrow his classes don’t start until 9:45, so he can sleep in a bit.

How did MLC prepare for the accreditation visit? A self-study steering committee directed the study. Members of the faculty, staff, and student body served on committees to gather evidence that demonstrated how well the college met the accreditation criteria. MLC students and faculty, Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary students and faculty, graduates, principals, and laypeople were surveyed. The National Survey of Student Engagement, the Student Satisfaction Inventory, the college’s strategic planning results, and the college’s assessment data were also used to provide evidence of the college’s effectiveness. Self-study work began in October 2006 and culminated with the writing of the self-study report and the accreditation team visit in 2009.

“Constant Companion”

A typical Wednesday schedule for DMLC students in 1914 ended at lunch. In fact, until as late as 1970, students had half days on Wednesdays and Saturdays.

Looking Ahead: In the next two years, he’ll student teach in both elementary and high school. His training in Spanish education is gaining momentum, and his desire to develop his gifts in service to God permeates his thoughts: “This summer I’m going to go to Ecuador for Spanish immersion again (pictured). I don’t have to, but I want to do it. After I graduate, maybe I’ll go teach in Colombia and then get my master’s in Spanish.” Whatever he chooses, you can sense that God has blessed him with a drive for excellence, and he wants to prepare himself as well as possible for that day when he enters the public ministry—in a classroom of sixth graders or sophomores, Spanish speakers or not.

2 0 0 9 W I NNE R

2 0 0 9 R u n n e r- U P

T H E WO R OF

He explains what the commission is, what the visiting team said, and why their evaluation is important for MLC as we train pastors, teachers, and staff ministers for public ministry in the WELS.

“Life for the Lost” 2 0 0 9 R u n n e r- U P

2 0 0 9 R u n n e r- U P

InFocus asked Dr. David Wendler for his thoughts on the Higher Learning Commission’s visit. In addition to serving as the MLC Vice President for Academics, Dr. Wendler also serves on the Higher Learning Commission himself, as a consultant-evaluator who leads visiting teams to other colleges.

T

Mary Balza taught English as a foreign language to middle school and high school students in Southeast Asia from November 2006 to June 2008.

[Excerpt] . . . Although we stood only a few feet away from them, there was a chasm between us. Our differences were as marked as night and day: white skin vs. yellow, rich vs. not-enough-money-to-buy-soap poor, English vs. Lisu dialect, age vs. youth. We were separated by an entire culture, but curiously united by something much stronger. The same Spirit, who took us out of our spiritual poverty and gave us the incredible riches of His Grace, did the same for them. . . .

HE HE TO T AR

[Excerpt] . . . All people are traveling on the road of life.

For those who know Jesus, that road leads to heaven. . .

Sadly, at this time, the majority of the 1.3 billion people living in this country still do not know Christ. The good news is that many of those people are open to hearing the gospel and more and more people are coming to faith every day! . . . Only God knows when or if that road will end. Only God knows when the road of each person’s life will come to an end. . . . The time to go and tell them is now, before the end of the road!

By Rebecca Seeger—Southeast Asia

Why is accreditation important to MLC and MLC graduates? Accreditation is

E

The Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools awarded a ten-year continuation of MLC’s accreditation on June 25, the pronouncement a result of their March 30-April 1 campus evaluation visit. The five-member team consisted of Dr. Beth Jernberg (chair), Professor of Education, University of Sioux Falls, Sioux Falls SD; Dr. Cheryl Jacobsen, Provost and Academic Dean, Loras College, Dubuque IA; Dr. Carol Ann Mooney, President, St. Mary’s College, Notre Dame IN; Dr. Jacci Rodgers, Professor and Chair of Accounting and Information Technology, Oklahoma City University, Oklahoma City OK; and Dr. Ronald Shope, Professor of Communication and Research/Director of Assessment & Institutional Research, Grace University, Omaha NE.

“Separated but United”

By Mary Balza—Southeast Asia

HE

RI

MLC’s Third Annual Contest

“The End of the Road”

M THE

F THE PR AI T O

Prize

F RO

AR

MLC Awarded Ten-YearSecondary Spanish Education Major

!

In a 1914 Messenger, a student writes more about the typical schedule for the college “boys”—a schedule that looks surprisingly like that of a preparatory school student today.

6:00 am: Wake-up by tower bells 6:20 am: Chapel Breakfast (The author mentions his favorite comfort food, kneep, or syrup.)

Make beds, sweep rooms, get ready for class 7:30 am: Bells ring for English Chapel, which included town students 8:00 am: Five 40-minute “recitation” periods in Recitation Hall (Old Main) 11:50 am: Dinner, rest, and relaxation 1:20 pm: Four more recitation, or class, periods 4:00 pm: Free time—many of the “boys” went downtown to the “sweet shops” 6:00 pm: Supper 7:00 pm: Study hall 9:00 pm: Evening chapel 10:00 pm: Lights out

By Rachel Meyer—Southeast Asia A young girl shuffled along a rustic path. Ignoring the beauty in the surrounding mountaintops, she focused on the small distractions. She whimpered when the steps became too high or when a strong wind blew in her face.

Her father accompanied her on this short journey. He never left her side. Clutching a large load over his shoulder, he placed his free hand behind her, carefully leading her along the uneven stones. Amazingly, his guidance went unnoticed by his young child.

To many, life seems unbearable. They are tired and saddened, concentrating on the trials of this hopeless world. Blind with unbelief, they fail to notice a companion who lowered himself to give them peace. To share the good news is a command and the responsibility of all believers.

Opportunities to fulfill this command are as plentiful as there are people in the world.

In my work here, I am blessed to share the news about our ever-present Friend. While some analyze, others cling to His promises and the new clarity which permeate their lives. Only the Good Shepherd knows when true faith is planted in a person’s heart, and I rejoice when He gives me evidence. A friend reflected upon His saving work as she left study. While tying her Converse shoes, she confessed, “Some days I feel like I can’t do it, but then I am very confident when I remember that it is He who makes me brave to face everything in life. I hear Him say to me tonight, ‘Go in peace.’”

Until we reach our final destination, our constant Companion guides our earthly walk with an abiding peace that never departs from those whom He loves.

Go into all the world and preach the good news to all creation. Mark 16:15

Jennifer Joecks has worked in Southeast Asia from September 2007 to the present.

19

20

Rebecca Schultz DMLC ’79 Juneau WI

Robert Bitter NWC ’64 Millersville WI

John Gawrisch NWC ’74 Mequon WI

Rosalie Radue DMLC ’64 Maribel WI

Lenore Thurow DMLC ’39 Menomonie MI

Mark Wenzel NWC ’84 West Allis WI

Dawn Reckzin DMLC ’84 Nepean, Ontario CN

Bernard Kuschel NWC ’39 Pound WI

132

14

Praise Him for never leaving us alone.

Rachel Meyer taught English as a foreign language to grades 7-9 in Southeast Asia from August 2007 to June 2009.

Rebecca Seeger taught English as a foreign language in Southeast Asia from August 2006 to the present.

What is the Higher Learning Commission?

It is one of six regional accreditation agencies in the United States. The United States Department of Education recognizes the Higher Learning Commission as the accreditator of colleges and universities in 19 Midwestern states. It evaluates a college’s governance and administration, organizational effectiveness, financial stability, resources, admissions and student services, student academic achievement, and relationships with outside constituencies.

By Jennifer Joecks—Southeast Asia

[Excerpt] Smoke and incense filled the air, making it difficult to breathe in the crowded room. Worshippers pushed through the temple carrying sticks of incense and flaming candles. The scenes that day were hard to watch.

Toddlers lifted to touch images of stone. Mothers helping children light incense. Fathers demonstrating how to bow before idols. Teenagers placing offerings at the feet of man-made statues. Hands folded in prayer, petitioning deaf and lifeless ears. . . . I have the honor of leading them out of the clouds of incense, past the golden statues, to the One who provides lasting hope and peace. . . .

LD S

2009 Thalassa P

important for many reasons, including the following.

Twenty international teachers

• Only students who attend accredited colleges and universities are eligible for federal and state financial aid. In 2008-09, 70% of MLC students received government financial aid grants or loans.

School Schedule in 1914

• Graduation from an accredited undergraduate institution is an expectation for admission into graduate schools.

• Credits earned at an accredited institution transfer to other institutions.

entered our third annual Thalassa Prize competition, sending us photos and written reflections on their ministries overseas. Thalassa [THAH-lah-sah] is Greek for “the sea.” This year’s Thalassa Prize winner is Rachel Meyer. The $1000 prize, given by an anonymous donor, has been divided between Ms. Meyer and her mission choice.

Although MLC Daylight International teachers serve in about 10 different countries this year, the 2009 entrants were predominantly from Southeast Asia.

6:15 pm Supper

7:00 pm Chapel

• Graduation from an accredited college or

university is a prerequisite for obtaining state teaching licenses.

7:30 pm Library: One homework item among many on tonight’s list: “I have to read a 190-page book for Children’s Literature and prepare a lesson.”

• We live in a credentialed society in which people judge quality by credentials.

Graduation from an accredited institution provides evidence of the degree’s quality.

9:30 pm Dorm: “We might play some NCAA football on a video game, or maybe I’ll do a little more homework.

Probably the first option.”

11:30 pm Cafeteria: It’s open till midnight, so he’s got time to grab a quick pop and hotdog before bed.

Tomorrow his classes don’t start until 9:45, so he can sleep in a bit.

How did MLC prepare for the accreditation visit? A self-study steering committee directed the study. Members of the faculty, staff, and student body served on committees to gather evidence that demonstrated how well the college met the accreditation criteria. MLC students and faculty, Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary students and faculty, graduates, principals, and laypeople were surveyed. The National Survey of Student Engagement, the Student Satisfaction Inventory, the college’s strategic planning results, and the college’s assessment data were also used to provide evidence of the college’s effectiveness. Self-study work began in October 2006 and culminated with the writing of the self-study report and the accreditation team visit in 2009.

“Constant Companion”

A typical Wednesday schedule for DMLC students in 1914 ended at lunch. In fact, until as late as 1970, students had half days on Wednesdays and Saturdays.

Looking Ahead: In the next two years, he’ll student teach in both elementary and high school. His training in Spanish education is gaining momentum, and his desire to develop his gifts in service to God permeates his thoughts: “This summer I’m going to go to Ecuador for Spanish immersion again (pictured). I don’t have to, but I want to do it. After I graduate, maybe I’ll go teach in Colombia and then get my master’s in Spanish.” Whatever he chooses, you can sense that God has blessed him with a drive for excellence, and he wants to prepare himself as well as possible for that day when he enters the public ministry—in a classroom of sixth graders or sophomores, Spanish speakers or not.

2 0 0 9 W I NNE R

2 0 0 9 R u n n e r- U P

T H E WO R

OF

He explains what the commission is, what the visiting team said, and why their evaluation is important for MLC as we train pastors, teachers, and staff ministers for public ministry in the WELS.

“Life for the Lost” 2 0 0 9 R u n n e r- U P

2 0 0 9 R u n n e r- U P

InFocus asked Dr. David Wendler for his thoughts on the Higher Learning Commission’s visit. In addition to serving as the MLC Vice President for Academics, Dr. Wendler also serves on the Higher Learning Commission himself, as a consultant-evaluator who leads visiting teams to other colleges.

T

Mary Balza taught English as a foreign language to middle school and high school students in Southeast Asia from November 2006 to June 2008.

[Excerpt] . . . Although we stood only a few feet away from them, there was a chasm between us. Our differences were as marked as night and day: white skin vs. yellow, rich vs. not-enough-money-to-buy-soap poor, English vs. Lisu dialect, age vs. youth. We were separated by an entire culture, but curiously united by something much stronger. The same Spirit, who took us out of our spiritual poverty and gave us the incredible riches of His Grace, did the same for them. . . .

HE HE TO T AR

[Excerpt] . . . All people are traveling on the road of life.

For those who know Jesus, that road leads to heaven. . .

Sadly, at this time, the majority of the 1.3 billion people living in this country still do not know Christ. The good news is that many of those people are open to hearing the gospel and more and more people are coming to faith every day! . . . Only God knows when or if that road will end. Only God knows when the road of each person’s life will come to an end. . . . The time to go and tell them is now, before the end of the road!

By Rebecca Seeger—Southeast Asia

Why is accreditation important to MLC and MLC graduates? Accreditation is

E

The Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools awarded a ten-year continuation of MLC’s accreditation on June 25, the pronouncement a result of their March 30-April 1 campus evaluation visit. The five-member team consisted of Dr. Beth Jernberg (chair), Professor of Education, University of Sioux Falls, Sioux Falls SD; Dr. Cheryl Jacobsen, Provost and Academic Dean, Loras College, Dubuque IA; Dr. Carol Ann Mooney, President, St. Mary’s College, Notre Dame IN; Dr. Jacci Rodgers, Professor and Chair of Accounting and Information Technology, Oklahoma City University, Oklahoma City OK; and Dr. Ronald Shope, Professor of Communication and Research/Director of Assessment & Institutional Research, Grace University, Omaha NE.

“Separated but United”

By Mary Balza—Southeast Asia

HE

RI

MLC’s Third Annual Contest

“The End of the Road”

M THE

F THE PR AI T O

Prize

Secondary Spanish Education Major

F RO

AR

MLC Awarded Ten-Year

!

In a 1914 Messenger, a student writes more about the typical schedule for the college “boys”—a schedule that looks surprisingly like that of a preparatory school student today.

6:00 am: Wake-up by tower bells 6:20 am: Chapel Breakfast (The author mentions his favorite comfort food, kneep, or syrup.)

Make beds, sweep rooms, get ready for class 7:30 am: Bells ring for English Chapel, which included town students 8:00 am: Five 40-minute “recitation” periods in Recitation Hall (Old Main) 11:50 am: Dinner, rest, and relaxation 1:20 pm: Four more recitation, or class, periods 4:00 pm: Free time—many of the “boys” went downtown to the “sweet shops” 6:00 pm: Supper 7:00 pm: Study hall 9:00 pm: Evening chapel 10:00 pm: Lights out

By Rachel Meyer—Southeast Asia A young girl shuffled along a rustic path. Ignoring the beauty in the surrounding mountaintops, she focused on the small distractions. She whimpered when the steps became too high or when a strong wind blew in her face.

Her father accompanied her on this short journey. He never left her side. Clutching a large load over his shoulder, he placed his free hand behind her, carefully leading her along the uneven stones. Amazingly, his guidance went unnoticed by his young child.

To many, life seems unbearable. They are tired and saddened, concentrating on the trials of this hopeless world. Blind with unbelief, they fail to notice a companion who lowered himself to give them peace. To share the good news is a command and the responsibility of all believers.

Opportunities to fulfill this command are as plentiful as there are people in the world.

In my work here, I am blessed to share the news about our ever-present Friend. While some analyze, others cling to His promises and the new clarity which permeate their lives. Only the Good Shepherd knows when true faith is planted in a person’s heart, and I rejoice when He gives me evidence. A friend reflected upon His saving work as she left study. While tying her Converse shoes, she confessed, “Some days I feel like I can’t do it, but then I am very confident when I remember that it is He who makes me brave to face everything in life. I hear Him say to me tonight, ‘Go in peace.’”

Until we reach our final destination, our constant Companion guides our earthly walk with an abiding peace that never departs from those whom He loves.

Go into all the world and preach the good news to all creation. Mark 16:15

Jennifer Joecks has worked in Southeast Asia from September 2007 to the present.

19

20

Rebecca Schultz DMLC ’79 Juneau WI

Robert Bitter NWC ’64 Millersville WI

John Gawrisch NWC ’74 Mequon WI

Rosalie Radue DMLC ’64 Maribel WI

Lenore Thurow DMLC ’39 Menomonie MI

Mark Wenzel NWC ’84 West Allis WI

Bernard Kuschel NWC ’39 Pound WI

Dawn Reckzin DMLC ’84 Nepean, Ontario CN

132

14

Praise Him for never leaving us alone.

Rachel Meyer taught English as a foreign language to grades 7-9 in Southeast Asia from August 2007 to June 2009.

How often does MLC have to go through an accreditation process? Accreditation teams can recommend from one to ten years of continued accreditation. The team’s recommendation for MLC is the maximum, ten years. The next comprehensive accreditation visit will be in 2018-2019.

What areas were identified as areas of strength at MLC? The commission’s visiting team recognized “an outstanding level of commitment among students, faculty, administration, and staff—certainly this is a mission-focused institution.” They also noted that “the college has consistently sought and responded to identified needs for academic programs in order to serve its constituencies.” Some of the other strengths noted were facility and technology enhancements, a high level of financial support for faculty desiring to finish their terminal degrees, adding vice presidents of academic affairs and of mission advancement, usage of assessment as a tool for improvement of instruction and other college functions, and a positive relationship with the New Ulm community.

Likewise, what areas were identified as areas to improve? The team report notes the following concerns: • A faculty workload that remains higher than advisable, especially for faculty teaching in the graduate program • The need for a director of institutional research and assessment

more than $3.8 million. The variability of the subsidy complicates annual budgetary and strategic planning for the college.”

How will MLC respond to those areas identified as concerns? MLC is required to file two progress reports with the Higher Learning Commission in 2012: • One report needs to demonstrate “allocation of a fulltime position for assessment and institutional research,” revised assessment plans for general education and the graduate program, and “examples of the use of assessment data for strategic planning and curricular change.”

• The other report needs to include evidence of “progress on allocation of financial resources to reduce the annual teaching load of faculty, particularly for those who are engaged in teaching in the graduate program; progress on the predictability of support from the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod, to reduce or eliminate the wide fluctuation in subsidy experienced in recent years; and progress on reestablishing the reserve fund as part of the college’s annual budget.”

What are your personal thoughts about the commission’s visit? Ten years of continued accreditation is a gratifying confirmation of MLC’s effectiveness in preparing future pastors, teachers, and staff ministers. This was a good team visit and an excellent report for MLC and our synod.

• An unpredictable synod subsidy

The report states: “The subsidy provided by the synod has varied considerably from a high point of $5.4 million in 2000-2001 to a low of $708,000 in 2005-2006. For 2008-2009 the subsidy was $4.5 million; although the subsidy for 2009-2010 has not yet been determined, it was projected to be no

Timothy Poetter NWC ’84 Mito City Japan

Mark Hanneman NWC ’69 Escanaba MI

Daniel Gartner DMLC ’64 Des Plaines IL

Ruth Koeninger DMLC ’39 Manitowoc WI

21

LD

F RO

M THE

HE

E

HE HE TO T AR

T

Lewis O. Thompson Grant for Worship and Music: Lloyd Harter (Immanuel—La Crosse WI)

S

OF

F THE PR AI T O

T H E WO R

!

AR

Ten $1000 grants were again made available by the Northwestern College Alumni Society. Named after the seven presidents of NWC, the grants are based on students’ academic achievement, campus citizenship and participation, potential for pastoral ministry, and excellence in a particular area.

Winners (from left) are chosen by the faculty.

RI

Northwestern College Alumni Society Presidents Fund Grants

Studium Excitare Announces First Scholarship Winner

Carleton Toppe Grant for GPA and Religion: Brock Groth (Bloomington—Bloomington MN) Robert J. Voss Grant for Student Government: Kendall Cook (New Salem­­­—Sebewaing MI) John A. Braun Grant for English: David Starr (Trinity—Bay City MI) John A. Braun Grant for Leadership: Ryan Kolander (Christ the Lord—Brookfield WI) August F. Ernst Grant for Confessional Languages: Jacob Haag (Faith—Fond du Lac WI) Robert J. Voss Grant for Student Life: Ben Reichel (Ascension—Mitchell SD) August F. Ernst Grant for Confessional Languages: Aaron Jensen ($500) (St. Mark—Watertown WI) Adam Martin Grant for Living Languages: Nathaniel Walther (Immanuel—La Crosse WI) August F. Ernst Grant for Confessional Languages: Andrew Hussman ($500) (St. Stephen—Fallbrook CA)

Students Publish Journal This DMLC Messenger staff of 1919 was working on a publication already in its ninth year of existence.

For many years the Messenger published campus news; social pages (noting who was seen walking with whom out on Camelsback and—a little later— the color of the flowers and bridesmaid dresses at the wedding); excerpts from the magazines of other colleges, such as Concordia and Gustavus Adolphus; stories, poems, jokes; and, yes, serious editorial comment on world and national news events as well. Most of the Messengers are archived in the MLC library. For some pages, you need a good command of German.

E.E. Kowalke Grant for Biblical Languages: Evan Chartrand (Bethlehem—Manassas VA)

22

Marcus Diersen NWC ’64 Caledonia MN

Claudia Gutknecht DMLC ’79 Buffalo MN

Ruth Haar DMLC ’49 Loretto MN

Betty Heil DMLC ’54 Marshfield WI

S

OF

F THE PR AI T O

RI

LD

M THE HE

T H E WO R

F RO

AR

Ben Reichel (Ascension—Mitchell SD) has won the first Studium Excitare Scholarship. This $500 award is given to the student who submits the best translation of a German or Latin theological article to Studium Excitare, The Journal of Confessional Language Studies at MLC, an MLC quarterly e-zine (studiumexcitare.com) edited by Aaron Jensen (St. Mark— Watertown WI) and Andrew Hussman (St. Stephen—Fallbrook CA). Reichel translated Dr. Adolf Hoenecke’s 1890 Ascension sermon, “Following Christ to Heaven,” based on Luke 24:49-53.

!

E

HE HE TO T AR

T

Student Leadership— with the Band MLC Presidential Scholars MLC awarded $2,500 to the following first-year students who were valedictorians of their high school classes (from left): Rachel Rupnow (Minnesota Valley LHS; St. Paul—New Ulm MN) Carolyn Mayes (Northland LHS; Divine Word—Plover WI) Zachary Moyle (Lakeside LHS; St. Paul—Lake Mills WI) Tiffany Myers and Jacob Steinmetz (both Great Plains LHS; St. Martin—Watertown SD) Jennifer Mickelson (Luther Prep; Holy Trinity—Okauchee WI) Brandon Reif (Michigan Lutheran Seminary; Emanuel—Tawas City MI) Alison Kolander (Kettle Moraine LHS; Bethlehem—Menomonee Falls WI) Not pictured: Hannah Janke (Luther Prep; Bethel—Sioux Falls SD) The following sophomore, junior, and senior students had their Presidential Scholarships renewed this year.

In 1913, a band was briefly organized under Professor Hugo Mosel. It seems to have died out soon after, for in 1921, some college men asked a classmate, Kurt Oswald, to conduct a band they were organizing. Though Oswald knew no band instruments, he learned to play the cornet the summer of ’22 and got the ensemble started.

The band was directed by students until Professor Martin Albrecht took the baton in 1943.

In 1924 the band instituted a campus tradition that had its roots in the German Turmblasen, or “tower trumpets.” On the morning of Commencement, band members climbed up to the roof of Old Main and greeted the rising sun with a short concert.

They also called out the names of the graduates, one by one, ringing the bell for each graduate. The Turmblasen custom was discontinued in 2007, but the calling of the names continues.

Sarah Foelske (Wisconsin LHS; Mt. Lebanon—Milwaukee) Jacob Haag (Winnebago Lutheran Academy; Faith—Fond du Lac WI) Andrew Hussman (Luther Prep; St. Stephen—Fallbrook CA) Paul Kanzenbach (Great Plains LHS; Bethlehem—Watertown SD) Caitlin Keller (Michigan Luth. Seminary; St. Stephen—Adrian MI) Heather Korb (Lutheran HS of Indianapolis; Divine Savior—Indianapolis) Joanna Kramer (Fox Valley LHS; Immanuel—Greenville WI) Anne Marggraf (Luther Prep; Faith—Sussex WI) Adam Mathiak (Kettle Moraine LHS; David’s Star—Jackson WI) Erica Natsis (Michigan Luth. Seminary; Trinity—Saline MI) Karly Neshem (Bremerton HS; Christ the King—Bremerton WA) Sarah Sauer (Luther Prep; Messiah—Green Bay WI) Katherine Wahl (Luther Prep; Zion—Cambria WI) Jonathan Weber (Michigan LHS; St. John—Dowagiac MI)

David Nottling NWC ’79 El Paso TX

David Allerheiligen DMLC ’74 Plymouth NE

Rita Castillo DMLC ’74 Hustisford WI

Winfred Schaller NWC ’44 Saginaw MI

23

Senior Awards MLC Scholar-Athlete Awards

Fine Arts Award

Leading Scholar (Preseminary)

Mark Reichert (St. John—Ontario WI)

Sarah Janke (Bethel—Sioux Falls SD)

Jeff Grundmeier (Christ the Lord—Houston TX)

Via Veritas Vita Award

Jerome Kruse Knight Awards (Athletics)

Kent Reeder (St. Paul—Menomonie WI)

Service Award

Leading Scholar (Education)

Hannah Bode (St. Paul—Saginaw MI) Jeff Grundmeier (Christ the Lord—Houston TX)

Katelyn Peter (Mountain of the Lord—Wausau WI) Caleb Free (Divine Word—Plover WI)

Jaymie Bergmeier (Divine Grace—Lake Orion MI, pictured with Student Senate representative Dan Albrecht)

Upper Midwest Athletic Conference

Academic All-Conference

Of all the teams in the UMAC, MLC captured first place on the fall 2008 Academic All-Conference team, with 54 athletes earning a GPA of 3.5 or better.

MLC also led UMAC in team GPA for five of eight fall sports: men’s cross country, football, men’s soccer, women’s soccer, and volleyball.

In the winter/spring sports, MLC placed 49 athletes on the Academic All-Conference team, and we led the conference in three winter/spring sports: men’s basketball, women’s track, and men’s tennis.

F RO

M THE

HE

OF

S

E

HE HE TO T AR

T

24

Daniel Sabrowsky NWC ’59 Portland OR

RI

T H E WO

F THE PR AI T O

RL

!

AR

D

Greg Holzhueter (St. Mark—Mankato MN, pictured) earned Academic All-Conference honors in both football and basketball, helping both teams to the top academic spot in the conference.

Basketball, 1909 This 1909 basketball team was DMLC’s fourth, the first team having hit the court in 1906. Naismith had invented the game in the recent past—1891—and it wasn’t until ’06 that metal hoops replaced peach baskets. What type of basket these cagers used is hard to say.

Eugene Ahlswede NWC ’59 Sturgeon Bay WI

Nancy Morse DMLC ’59 Dalton WI

Rebekah Radichel DMLC ’59 Lake Mills IA

Faculty Essay

Imitation, some sage said, is the sincerest form of flattery. At MLC an imitation—especially a really good imitation of a professor—is also the surest cause of laughter.

Over the years many a Homecoming talent show or Friday night in the dorm has been enlivened or even salvaged by imitations of professors. The truly mirth-worthy ones turn on some quirk of style, some foible of dress (last week’s quadraphonically loud tie?), some habit that the audience instantly recognizes. Not that any of us profs has recognizable quirks or imitable foibles. Who, us? Who, me?

Say it ain’t so.

But it is so. Just watch a student skit. A good imitation finds the foible and exploits the quirk. A great one takes up the previously unnoticed nuance that everyone now sees clearly. A great imitation gently, boldly brings out some characteristic to the enjoyment of all. Even the prof. Even me (that is, if I had any quirks or foibles).

(Hebrews 13:7). To be sure, teaching—even in courses that directly “speak the Word of God”—involves the reciprocal toil of instruction and learning—the tests and lectures and smart boards and online discussion groups, even once in a while good old-fashioned chalk. The chalk matters.

But the talk and the walk matter too. How we speak, how we minister, how we live, matters too. It is a blessing of study at MLC that, as students learn ministry and acquire tools for ministry, ministry is what brings these things to them. These sinner/saints we call faculty—these staff ministers, teachers, and pastors now all teaching—illustrate the very thing they teach by the very act of teaching.

And teaching is more than chalk. It goes beyond classrooms to all settings of campus life—coaching, advising, meeting, correcting, comforting, counseling, chatting, sharing a meal, attending a play—the things profs and students share across the college routine. More than the chalk, teaching at MLC involves the talk and the walk.

Students will remember—and will imitate—the talk and the walk long after the chalk.

Between the laughs the imitations remind us of something important: in the everyday routine of campus life, students are observing and, consciously or not, absorbing their teachers’ ways. It is important because at the WELS College of Ministry—no surprise—ministry is taught. It is hoped sincerely that at MLC, ministry is also caught. What is taught matters. What is caught matters at least as much.

What the Students Say

Martin Luther College exists not just to nurture aptitudes, though with rigor and vigor we do a lot of that, teaching day after exhilarating, exhausting day. But some things cannot be taught. They must be caught, must be picked up by exposure. So MLC exists also—and as importantly—to foster attitudes, attitudes of Christ-like love and service for ministry. And, of course, only the gospel does that. Only the good news of forgiveness in Jesus can prompt and grow an attitude that reflects the love that first loved us.

“I never expected the variety of professors and the different ways they would conduct their classes.”

Derek Rabbers (St. Paul—Stevensville MI)

MLC’s faculty, as ministers of that gospel, do have a role to play in that. Many of us have been loaned the privilege of teaching courses that by definition are all about God’s Word. And every one of us in every course—every course— teaches from the premise that that Word is the final authority and the only reason for applying all that is taught.

What is caught arises from imitation. “Remember your leaders, who spoke the word of God to you. Consider the outcome of their way of life and imitate their faith”

Kurt Eggert NWC ’44 Watertown WI

Richard Grunze DMLC ’44 Milwaukee WI

“There are so many wonderful men and women of God on the faculty. I am inspired and encouraged by so many people to dig into my Bible and study the Scriptures on my own.” Carolyn Mayes (Divine Word—Plover WI)

“All of them try to get to know you as much as possible on an individual basis. They really care about your well-being.”

Megan Watson (Ascension—Escondido CA) “How the professors live their ministries and their lives is the best lesson.”

John Raasch (Bethel—Sioux Falls SD) “My favorite thing about MLC’s faculty is each professor’s ‘hidden curriculum.’ Always an application to life, ministry, and the gospel.”

Nate Wordell (Salem—Loretto MN)

Lois Meyer DMLC ’54 Milwaukee WI

Warren Steffenhagen NWC ’49 Hastings MN

25

Changes in Ministry Retiring: David Pelzl was called from Fox Valley LHS to Dr. Martin Luther College in 1983 to teach math.

During his tenure, he taught everything from Linear Algebra to Calculus, from Number Theory to SmartBoard to math methods courses. He also served as a student teaching supervisor, an advisor for first-year math majors, chairman of the committee that developed the secondary math major, and founder of “Meet Math,” a college student club that administers math competitions for schools synod-wide. We wish him and his wife, Jan, who has served the college as assistant in the admissions department for many years, a blessed retirement.

New

Faculty: Rebecca Cox

has accepted our call to teach in the physical education department and coach volleyball. An NLCAA and Academic All-American while a volleyball player at DMLC, Cox comes to us from Michigan Lutheran High School with 20 years of volleyball coaching experience.

Changes in Admissions Department: Two admissions counselors are moving on to other areas of service: Sarah Zahrt resigned to be home with her new baby daughter, and Mark Gnewuch accepted a call to teach second grade at Siloah—Milwaukee.

Professor Lori Unke will move from the physical education department to replace Sarah Zahrt. The other vacancy will not be filled.

Graduate Faculty Confers Master’s Degrees MLC conferred master’s degrees on four graduates in May. Pictured here with the graduate faculty, they are (from left): Dr. Alan Spurgeon, Kenn Kremer, Prof.

John Meyer, Dr. Carla Melendy, Dr. Gene Pfeifer, Kristal Meyer (graduate), Dr. Robert Klindworth,

26

Martin Luther College

Graduate Faculty Heath Dobberpuhl (graduate), Dr. James Grunwald, Kimberly Gartner (graduate), Dr. Lawrence Olson, Sheila Krause (graduate), James Brandt, Dr. David Wendler, Dr. Ron Buelow, LeDell Plath, Dr. Cynthia Whaley. MLC’s graduate program conferred degrees on its first two graduates in May 2008, and 62 students are currently enrolled.

Notes from Abroad Professor Paul Bases took Spanish students and grads to Ecuador for their annual language immersion trip.

Professor Keith Wessel returned from a semester in Hong Kong, where he taught at the WELS-operated Asia Lutheran Seminary.

Professor Earl Heidtke, along with WLC Professors Eric Pelzl and Glen Thompson, led a study tour to China this summer. “All 27 members of the MLC/WLC China Study Tour enjoyed the Great Wall, the Terra Cotta army, the limestone towers along the Li River, the Olympic venues, the Bund and Pudong areas of Shanghai, and the tram to Victoria Peak. All tour members have a deeper understanding of the world’s most populous country.”

In Memoriam

By MLC Professor Wayne Wagner Professor Emeritus Francis Schubkegel entered his heavenly home on February 9, 2009, after many months of health challenges.

The theme of his memorial service, “For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain” (Philippians 1:21), was a fitting summary of his life and of his service to his Savior and the church.

Faculty Anniversaries Seven Martin Luther College professors celebrated anniversaries of service to the church on Sunday, April 26: (left to right) Joyce Schubkegel (50 years); David Gosdeck, Lyle Lange, and Mark Lenz (40 years); Dan Balge, Ken (Chip) Rupnow, and Brian Dose (25 years).

Many have remembered the kind and gentle spirit that Professor Schubkegel so readily showed to students and colleagues. In his patient manner he served and led others as a choir director, organist, teacher, faculty and committee member, advisor, confidant, or friend.

A Student’s Gratitude From senior class president Jonathan Gross (Zion—Hartland WI) to the faculty:

F RO

M THE

HE

OF

S

RI

T H E WO

F THE PR AI T O

RL

!

As a colleague he continued to model that same spirit.

His regular practice in the MLC Music Center very early many mornings was an encouragement to others and a testimony of his dedication to continue to serve others through music as long as his Lord permitted him to do so.

We thank God as we remember Prof. Fran Schubkegel, and as we think of the joy that now is his as he continually offers praises in the glory of God’s presence, at the throne of the Lamb.

AR

D

Through your diligence in the classroom, through personal stories of your incredible experiences in the ministry, through Professor Rupnow’s white suit on game day, and through family lives that students wish they could someday replicate, you have let your light shine and have become some of the best role models we have ever had. We are ready to go out and make disciples of all nations as we go on to the seminary, receive a call, or become lay members in a congregation, and we thank you for all of the work you have done for us. (excerpt from a speech given May 13, 2009, at the Graduate-Faculty Banquet)

Those of us who were his organ students very likely did not realize at the time how much he was truly shaping our view of music ministry. Although he knew and played well a wide variety of advanced organ literature, he was not concerned with building a reputation as a great recitalist. Rather, his priority was using music to assist others in their worship, no matter how modest or grand was the organ he was asked to play, the choir he was to direct, or the available musical resources.

The Faculty of 1899

The six-member faculty at the turn of the 20th century: (back) Otto Montgomery, J.G. Mohr, Gottfried Theodore Burk; (front) Adolph Ackermann, John Schaller, A.F. Reim. These men taught not only theology and pedagogy in the “normal” department, but also a business course, offering bookkeeping, shorthand, commercial law, and typewriting.

Martin Luther College

27

E

HE HE TO T AR

T

MLC

MISSION ADVANCEMENT

It seems these days we also have a yellow brick road of apprehension and fear. It’s not lions and tigers and bears. It’s recession and depression and stagnation… oh, my! Is this just a short glitch on the economic road to wealth and happiness, or is this the new normal?

Dorothy and her friends are just a figment of imagination, of course. Here is what is not fictional.

First, God is in charge. Second, we worship a faithful and generous God. Third, God has blessed us with the promise of life eternal through the gift of faith in his loving Son, Jesus. And fourth, we are strengthened with the inspired words of the Apostle Paul: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.”

We ask for God’s guidance and your prayers as we continue to provide world-class training for ministry in the WELS at the highest level of fiscal responsibility.

Please pray that we glorify God through careful planning and stewardship, and that God would move the hearts of many to support our college of ministry, especially in the area of financial aid.

1. Delay filling six support staff positions and three faculty positions 2. Eliminate annual funds for planned improvements and emergency repairs for the next biennium

4. Eliminate some staff positions; reduce staff hours and staff salaries (total reduction: 11.5 FTE) Total reductions:

HE

T H E WO R

M THE

OF

S

T

Martin Luther College

$2,550,000

F THE PR AI T O

• Schuck’s Tailor Shop (suits $22.75 and up) • New Ulm Union Hospital (A fireproof hospital supervised by graduate nurses, Call them at phone #404) • Retzlaff Motor Company

F RO

$ 450,000

AR

For many years the student magazine, the DMLC Messenger, was supported by area advertisers. In 1935, the 60 advertisers included the following:

!

$ 520,000 $1,000,000

3. Prioritize needs and cut expenses in every department on campus

New Ulm Support for College

28

Approximate Savings $ 580,000

Cost-Reduction Measure

LD

In times of fear and uncertainty, the kingdom of God may advance more rapidly than in times of prosperity.

That’s because God’s people are led to his Word for strength and encouragement. In these uncertain times, may Jesus keep all of us in his Word so that we may be led to cling to the unchanging promises of a loving God.

We are in the process of reducing our faculty size, as well as looking for ways to enhance revenue in other areas such as our campus store, continuing education, and graphic arts.

HE HE TO T AR

The picture is so clear in my mind—Dorothy, the Tin Man, and Scarecrow tiptoeing down the yellow brick road, in a gloomy forest, voicing in unison their mutual fear of a scary, unknown future. Oh, my!

All MLC departments are looking carefully at ways to reduce our operating expenses. We have been instructed to reduce our budget for 2009 - 2010 by $2.8 million. Below are cost-reduction measures we are implementing.

E

By Vice President for Mission Advancement Jon Scharlemann

Budget Reductions

RI

Lions & Tigers & Bears . . .

Oh, My!

MLC

erd Societ y The Shephther College

The Shepherd Society

Martin Lu

recognizes

ronholz e Arthur G

Gen

Would you like to offer a gift to MLC in honor of a called worker who has made a difference in your life? When you join the MLC Shepherd Society, you give a gift of any amount to MLC, and we send a special plaque to a called worker of your choice.

k of de for his wor with gratitu g God’s people shepherdin

n to has been give lz and their families kers, a gift re called wor Jack, and Jim Gronho To train futu

by Jerry, in his honor beacon, her College uncle, as a

, and Martin Lut nseled, ther-in-law brother, bro ers, the people he cou Gene, our cowork “God used .” students, his ily to Christ pointing his and his fam men, me before nowledges Whoever ack nowledge him before ack 2) I will also (Matthew 10:3 in heaven. her Fat my

Contact Jon Scharlemann in the Mission Advancement Office for details: scharljj@mlc-wels.edu or 507.354.8221.

Furnishing the Chapel The Chapel of the Christ building project is well underway. Would you like to assist with the final touches— the furnishings, the paraments, the altar ware? Many gracious donors have already purchased items, such as the hymnals, communion ware, and candlesticks. The following items remain on our wish list.

Video projection system

Four donations of . . .

$10,000

Paraments, banner, stoles

Four sets, each priced at . . .

$ 2,500

Additional ranks of organ pipes 2/3' Cymbal III $12,522

16' Klarinetbass $ 8,485 16' Contratrompete $10,982

8' Gambe Celeste $ 8,555

8' Vox humana & tremulant $23,279 Chimes $ 6,021 $ 5,000

Furniture for gathering space

$11,000

Storage cabinets

$ 8,000

F RO

M THE

MLC first-year students Zachary Moyle and Ryan Zweifel were killed in a tragic car accident in May 2009. Both were Lakeside Lutheran High School graduates. Zachary was enrolled in preseminary studies, and Ryan was an education major.

To honor their memory, to lend support to future MLC students, and to glorify our heavenly Father, who took these young men home to himself, fellow MLC student and friend John Cleven has established two scholarship endowment funds in conjunction with Lakeside Lutheran High School.

An annual award will be given to two Lakeside Lutheran High School graduates enrolling at Martin Luther College, one in preseminary studies and one in education.

Several generous donors have pledged dollar-fordollar matches up to $10,000 for donations to these endowments. If you are interested in contributing, please contact John Cleven at 608.825.7315 or Jon Scharlemann at the MLC Mission Advancement Office.

HE

OF

S

RI

T H E WO

F THE PR AI T O

RL

!

Scholarship Endowments

AR

D

Choir risers

Ten donations of . . .

Zachary D. Moyle & Ryan J. Zweifel

Tuition and Fees in 1884 The first year of the college’s existence, tuition for three terms (12-week, 10-week, 10-week) was $32. The cafeteria plan (“plain but substantial board”) was $1.50 a week, or $33. Incidental fees were $1.75 for the year, bringing the grand total to $66.75.

Martin Luther College

29

E

HE HE TO T AR

T

MLC

MISSION ADVANCEMENT

A Thank

You from Martin Luther College

Jon Scharlemann, Vice President for Mission Advancement

“Praise be to you, O LORD, God of our father Israel, from everlasting to everlasting.”

King David’s prayer of thanks is also our prayer as we review the gifts of love given to MLC for the first 11 months of FY 2008/2009.

FY 2008/2009 (11 months) $1,402,466 FY 2007/2008 (11 months) $1,534,856 “Yours, O LORD, is the greatness and the power and the glory and the majesty and the splendor, for everything in heaven and earth is yours.”

Included in the gifts for 2008/2009: $10,488 from 27 Lutheran elementary schools $ 1,359 from nine Sunday schools Every one of these nickels, dimes, and quarters is a wonderful example of a childlike faith and a generous heart.

“Yours, O LORD, is the kingdom; you are exalted as head over all.”

In addition to the gifts noted, various foundations have helped MLC students in 2008/2009 with financial assistance totaling $115,850.

“Wealth and honor come from you; you are the ruler of all things. In your hands are strength and power to exalt and give strength to all.”

Matching employer and Thrivent gifts are an awesome blessing for MLC. Included in the total gifts are $130,576 from Thrivent Financial for Lutherans and $76,486 from employer-matched gifts.

“Now our God, we give you thanks, and praise your glorious name.”

Gifts to MLC from the Ladies’ Auxiliary and other ladies’ groups totaled $11,923. The MLC Mission Advancement Office benefits greatly from the many volunteers who help with mailings and archive work. We are also grateful for the student and faculty volunteers who serve at mission advancement events and thank-a-thons, and who represent MLC at Ladies’ Auxiliary gatherings.

“And now I have seen with joy how willingly your people who are here have given to you. O LORD, God of our fathers Abraham, Isaac and Israel, keep this desire in the hearts of your people forever, and keep their hearts loyal to you.”

1 Chronicles 29:10-13,17,18

Three MLC Students Say Thank You for Anonymous Donors’ Gifts “Words cannot express how thankful I am for the scholarship you have given to me. Matthew 6:25 says, ‘Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes?’ There had been some days when I would worry about money because I would work so much and just barely scrape by to pay my bills, but I have been reassured over and over again that I don’t have to worry about anything. . . . Thank you for supporting me in my ministry and also for

30

Martin Luther College

supporting the ministry of the whole Christian Church.”

“It is with great joy and incredible gratitude that I am thanking you today. . . .You are part of an answer to prayers, prayers that God would provide a way for me to make it through college financially.”

“Thank you so much for supporting our school and our mission. It is because of wonderful people like you with such strong faith and willingness to serve God that we even exist. Thank you for giving me this wonderful opportunity to continue my education.”

Focus on a

Victor F. Voecks Legacy scholarship Victor Albert Frederick Voecks (1904-1973) was assigned to Dr. Martin Luther College as an athletic coach and the college’s first tutor in 1930, following graduation from Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary. The following year he was called to a professorship, a position he held until his death. Teaching Latin and history, he also served at different periods as athletic director, registrar, and vice president, being instrumental in moving the college to a four-year status. “He was an excellent teacher, very strict, but always fair,” says his daughter, Naomi Voecks Plocher, “urging students and athletes to use their Godgiven talents to the best of their ability. He was a dedicated Christian who, with his wife, Olga, lived his faith quietly.” The scholarship was established in 1974 by his wife, Olga Voecks, and their children.

Scholarship Criteria: This $500 scholarship is open to all education majors entering their year of graduation. It is based on active participation in cocurricular activities and in campus life while maintaining satisfactory grades. Number and size of awards may vary, based on fund income.

2008-2009 Winners: Emily Mayer: Emily, a member of St. John—Mukwonago WI, a graduate of Wisconsin Lutheran High School, and a 2009 MLC graduate, majored in both elementary education and secondary Spanish education. She served MLC as a Spanish instructor for a semester of her last year of college. She was also involved in MLC Forum, Senate, Chorale, College Choir, intramurals, dorm staff, and the Daylight program.

Katrina Schneider: Katrina, a member of Atonement—Milwaukee, a graduate of Wisconsin Lutheran High School, and a 2009 MLC graduate, majored in elementary education with an emphasis in English. While at MLC, she worked closely with people who have cognitive disabilities through Jesus Cares and MBW, a local social service. She also sang in choir and did ministry assistance for WELS congregations through Daylight USA.

25

Scholarship

Katherine Spaude: Katie, a member of Ascension—Antigo WI, a graduate of Antigo Senior High, and a prospective 2010 MLC graduate, is majoring in elementary education with an emphasis in science. She plays piano, enjoys choir, participates in student leadership groups, and serves as a resident assistant.

She writes to the Voecks family: “I see professors at MLC go above and beyond the call of duty to share as much experience and knowledge with the students as possible. I’m sure your father was a professor of such stature and more. It is such a blessing your family is able to keep on giving through generous gifts, like this scholarship that I am so honored to receive.“

Past Winners: 2007-08: Shawna Mehlberg, Rachel

Nass, Linden Valus, Paul Kanzenbach; 2006-07: Jessica Burmeister, Elizabeth Greenlee, Jeff Dolan; 2005-06: Michael Babler, Renee Pappalardo; 2004-05: Rebecca Janke, Timothy McEachern, Jason Schapekahm; 2003-04: Amanda Traucht, Jason Williams, Kristine Miller; 2002-03: Ann Uecker; 2001-02: Bill Heiges, Nathan Nolte, Sara Scharf; 2000-01: Carla Labair, Casey Pufahl, Ryan Stangel.

If you’re interested in establishing a Martin Luther College Legacy Scholarship to support the legacy of ministerial training at Martin Luther College and to honor a specific person, family, or other group who has a special love for Martin Luther College, contact Jon Scharlemann in the Mission Advancement Office at 507.354.8221.

Martin Luther College

31

Who’s coaching sports in Tempe, Arizona?

Who’s teaching physics in the Dominican Republic?

Who’s coordinating church music in St. Paul, Minnesota?

Who’s teaching Spanish at Illinois Lutheran High?

Who’s teaching grades 1-4 in Maryland?

Who’s playing organ in Chicago?

Who’s teaching English at a university in Southeast Asia?

Who’s teaching preschool in Baton Rouge, Louisiana?

Who’s a vice principal in Eau Claire, Wisconsin?

Who’s teaching sixth grade in Milwaukee?

Who’s teaching social studies at Great Plains LHS? Who’s teaching grade school in Colombia?

Who’s a tutor at Luther Preparatory School?

Who’s enrolling at Seminary?

Who’s starting an exciting new life of service to the church?

The 2009 Graduates of Martin luther College

26