The Compass 23–24 Annual Report

SOUTHWEST CHRISTIAN HIGH SCHOOL

Compass

2023-2024 ANNUAL REPORT

From the Head of School...

Our leadership team is reading “Practicing the Way” in which the author, John Mark Comer, makes the case that disciples of Jesus should organize their entire lives around three driving goals: to be with Jesus, to become like Jesus, and do what Jesus did. Comer includes the thoughts and writings of many theologians, pastors, and church fathers throughout the book. As I thought about our school’s vision for developing mature disciples, I was struck by the following quote from Dallas Willard:

“The greatest issue facing the world today, with all its heartbreaking needs, is whether those who...are identified as ‘Christians’ will become disciples — students, apprentices, practitioners - of Jesus Christ, steadily learning from him how to live the life of the Kingdom of the Heaven into every corner of human existence.”

Willard’s quote and the theme of Comer’s book emphasize the need for true believers to do more than develop a set of orthodox beliefs about reality and their salvation. Followers of Christ, guided by the word of God, are called to live like Jesus, become like Jesus, and be with Jesus. Comer argues that this transformative life, lived by the power of the Holy Spirit and through the grace of God, involves our renewed desires, discipline, and life practices. We should seek to be increasingly formed by the presence, power, and ways of Jesus rather than have our habits, attitudes, and way of living formed by the worldly patterns and cultural norms that constantly surround us.

At SWCHS we partner with Christian families and local churches to help students live intentionally and authentically as followers of Jesus. To live the “life of the Kingdom of the Heavens,” our students must be taught and personally pursue more than just sound doctrine or robust apologetics. Following Jesus will require us as believers to walk a narrow path that will look very different from our age's frenzied, secular, and self-absorbed patterns.

As parents, teachers, discipleship group leaders, and coaches, we must prayerfully and fervently encourage students to “seek, know, live, and proclaim the Truth'' by cultivating their relationship with Christ, so they become more like Him, and live according to His example. In this regard, there is no greater encouragement we can offer the next generation than for us, adults, to increasingly practice the way of Jesus in our own lives.

In Christ,

Dan Beckering

Dan Beckering, Head of School

Patrick Krommendyk, Chairman

Nathaniel Zylstra, Vice Chairman

Jack Brouwer, Secretary

Jeff Brunsberg

Chad Gauger

Karen Heddle

Melissa Molin

Jon Nykanen

John Santjer

Bruce Washington

Jason Zimmerman

OVERVIEW

VISION VALUES

Since 1996, Southwest Christian High School exists to develop mature disciples of Jesus Christ who seek, know, live, and proclaim the Truth and glorify God through academic, artistic, and athletic excellence.

ABOUT SWCHS

SWCHS is a Christian, nondenominational high school (grades 9–12) located in Chaska, Minnesota. In 2023-24, 500 students were in enrolled, and the ratio of students to faculty is 13:1.

TUITION & AID

Tuition for 2023-24 was $14,380. $770,000 was awarded for needbased financial aid.

Truth Discipleship Excellence College Preparation Community

Our faculty use the Teaching for Transformation framework to disciple students in each course. This work is rooted in the teachers' "Deep Hope" for their students as they engage in distinctly Christian teaching and learning.

Learn more about who we are and what we believe

STUDENTS CHURCHES CITIES MIDDLE SCHOOLS

DISCIPLESHIP

Student Testimonial

by Isaac Banken, Class of ‘24

I came to Southwest Christian from a small charter school. Going into my freshman year was scary, because I didn't know anybody, but I was very quickly welcomed by my classmates and faculty.

During my freshman year at SWCHS, I began to make my faith a personal journey. However, my commitment was always confined to Wednesday nights and Sunday mornings. Even though I portrayed a strong Christian identity, I knew I was living a lie. It wasn’t until my senior year when that all changed, thanks to my classmates and teachers. Seeing their bold faith became a huge inspiration to me. Following their example, I decided to turn my life around and fully commit to my relationship with God. Since then I’ve never felt more blessed to go to this school. The transformative power of the Christian community at Southwest Christian has played a crucial role in my spiritual journey.

One of my favorite things about SWCHS is the faculty. Their genuine care, love, and compassion for every student creates a super positive learning environment.

I can confidently say each teacher I have had at Southwest Christian has made an effort to get to know me on a personal level, and I’ve been here for four years. That’s a lot of teachers! What sets them apart is not only their commitment to education but also their commitment to their families. Seeing the joy in my teachers’ eyes and the huge smiles on their faces when they talk about their families is inspiring.

As I look ahead into the family I’m going to start one day, I aspire to be a parent as amazing as my teachers.

My favorite experience at SWCHS was my senior mission trip to the Dominican Republic. Our class stayed at a YWAM base for a week serving the staff and the surrounding community. One of the most impactful parts of this trip occurred during one of our chapels when the staff introduced a testimony night. At first, I thought this was a dumb idea because nobody was going to have the courage to speak up. But to my surprise, over 60 of my classmates and I shared personal testimonies. It takes courage to share some of your darkest moments with your classmates. I think that is a testimony of how amazing the community is here at this school.

I don’t think I could ever express how thankful I am to have had the opportunity to go to Southwest Christian. This school has been the biggest blessing in my life. I’ve made amazing friends, have incredible role models, and most importantly, I’ve grown significantly in my relationship with Jesus.

Service Day: A Long-Standing Tradition of SWC

Since the founding days of Southwest Christian, biannual service days have been a long-standing tradition. With over 60 discipleship groups now, our Service Day Committee and d-group leaders work tirelessly to assign groups to non-profits, organizations, and families in need for our two, allschool service days in October and April.

Discipleship groups and semiannual service days have always been and will continue to be a foundational core value.

We exist to develop mature disciples of Jesus Christ who seek, know, live, and proclaim the Truth, and our hope is that these service days can continue to challenge our students to live and proclaim the

Why Discipleship Matters

by Rob Wassenaar, Dean of Students

Truth of Jesus Christ. We desire to see our students go outside of their comfort zone, meet new people, build community within their d-groups, and experience God's unconditional love for His people.

If you are interested in serving as a discipleship group leader or a substitute, please email Brian Goldie at b_goldie@swchs.org.

If you are interested in learning more about the Service Day Committee, email Rob Wassenaar at r_wassenaar@swchs.org.

Jesus says, “Come follow me.” That is what we, as a school (staff, faculty, coaches, and discipleship group leaders), strive to accomplish. Let’s follow Jesus and show our students how to follow Jesus. This means in the boring, dry, difficult, and suffering times and in the celebration, good, and prosperous times. In the great wins and frustrating losses … be with Jesus and follow Him. He is the only one that can satisfy.

A dear friend and mentor used to tell me "You can’t export what you don’t import"—an intriguing and powerful truth about the need to walk with Jesus in order to encourage others to walk with Jesus. In no way am I perfect at this, but I’ve been blessed by people in my life who have shown me how to

walk with Jesus. And we want to pass on what we’ve learned.

Over the years, I've had three discipleship groups, and it has been powerful to see God grow all of us as He makes us more like Jesus. Thanks be to God!

"These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. Tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads." — Deuteronomy 6:6–8

Wassenaar's d-group sophomore year and senior year at SWCHS' annual service day

Senior Dominican Republic Missions Trip 99

students & adults served on the trip in November 2023

SWCHS has served in the Dominican Republic since

Daring Conversations

by Shani Johnson, Associate Dean of Students

In Spring 2023, SWCHS launched a new initiative called “Daring Conversations” where students can voluntarily participate in lunchtime conversations with trained staff around topics that are often divisive in our culture and even within the Christian community. Some of these topics include race and diversity, immigration, same-sex attraction, and politics in relation to our Christian faith. These conversations are intended to give students a space to have honest, loving conversations as followers of Christ.

Our hope is that we are training our students to engage in these difficult topics well, being able to share their thoughts and questions, listen and learn from perspectives that are different than theirs, all while standing firm in their faith.

During these conversations, some guidelines include asking our students to stay engaged, listen well, be humble, and be willing to learn.

We offer these daring conversations to equip our students to better love people and point them to Jesus.

In the past year, these student conversations have proven to be very meaningful times together, producing heartfelt and stretching moments for our students to hear the pain of others, to hear differing perspectives, and to engage those within and outside our community with the Truth and love of Christ.

Detroit Missions Trip

Ten students and three adults spent four days in Detroit, Michigan in March. They were there to learn about the city's history and to support MACC Development's efforts to revitalize the east side of Detroit. MACC Development's mission is to advance the Gospel and promote the dignity of every resident.

This trip was open to all students at SWCHS as part of the school's vision to provide more diverse experiences. The school plans to continue this short-term mission trip in future years, hoping more students will participate and benefit from this unique experience.

ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE

4 Engineering Students Present to NASA's HUNCH Program

Each year, NASA publishes a set of design challenges for high schools to propose design solutions. They call the program “HUNCH" which stands for High school students Unite with NASA to Create Hardware.

This year, the SWCHS Engineering Principles and Design class offered four proposals for four different challenges.

Two SWCHS proposals earned the design teams invitations to Rocket Park in Houston, TX, to demonstrate their ideas to NASA engineers, astronauts, and surgeons.

Congratulations to Josh Engler, Bryce Torgerson, Max Weckmen, and Braden Vis!

ENGLER & TORGERSON PROJECT

It costs approximately $1 million per pound to bring cargo into space. Bringing every item that might be needed for every contingency is extremely costineffective for items such as medical instruments. The space station has a 3D printer that fabricates instruments on demand. Josh Engler and Bryce Torgerson developed a number of medical devices that are 3D printable and developed a UV sanitation chamber so materials can be reused in space.

WECKMAN & VIS PROJECT

Working in space presents a very unique set of problems. Micro-gravity means that things just float around. Wheeled motorized devices won't work due to many constraints in space. Max Weckmen and Braden Vis proposed using puffs of air with a directional nozzle to maneuver a device around the International Space Station.

Anna Nykanen and Wyatt Wercinski 2024 National Merit Finalists

Anna Nykanen (2024 Salutatorian) and Wyatt Wercinski (Valedictorian) both were finalists for the National Merit Scholarship.

Out of 15,000 finalists, Anna Nykanen was one of 7,140 scholarship winners in the United States. Wercinski, with a cumulative GPA of 4.59, plans to attend Dartmouth College to major in statistics. Nykanen with a cumulative GPA of 4.54 will attend Bucknell University in the fall, pursuing international relations/pre-law.

Residential Construction Courses

Residential Construction has been a class at SWCHS for five years. This class focuses on the basic concepts of building homes, while Residential Construction II goes into more details of how a house is built. The course covers interior finishes (carpentry, drywall, painting, and tiling) and mechanicals (plumbing, electrical, and HVAC units).

These classes have been an important asset to our course offerings as more students are interested in going into the trades or want to get a better understanding of the home-building process. One project stood out to the students: the chair-building competition. Students were given zero instructions and had to work as a team to make a rapid prototype and build from scratch.

Junior Nataley Vassar said, "Mr. Schirber always knows how to make class fun, whether learning about electricity, playing hammershlagen, or even having our chair-designing competition. I really enjoyed the class because I learned basic handyman skills, and on top of that, I have made many fun memories that will last forever."

Jack Liesmaki said, "It's not only a captivating class, it's also paired with a hands-on aspect which creates a more involved learning atmosphere. Mr. Schirber has been a fantastic teacher who goes beyond teaching us about the trade to coach us in responsibility, hard work, and various ethical traits. The class is well-connected, and we have a lot of fun while also learning about the trade."

Junior Greta Book had similar praise, "This is the most I have ever learned in a class. It has taught me skills that will be very useful outside of high school, like how to communicate with people who are very different in terms of age, gender, and personality. In this class, we were tasked with building a chair in a group with no guidelines, and this helped me grow my problem-solving skills (since there were many unexpected challenges) and of course communication."

Class Spotlight: Video Production II

Video Production II continues to bring in guest speakers to give students an idea of what careers in video production would look like

The class met with David Paulson in January. Paulson works as a live editor on professional sporting events for ESPN and Fox Sports. He has worked for major events, such as NCAA football and basketball national championship games, and even the Super Bowl. David has two Emmy Awards for his work.

Working on their green screen project, the class met virtually with alumnus Reece VanHaaften '11 to prepare for their news feature project. VanHaaften is the Sports Director at WATE 6 in Knoxville, Tennessee. We are grateful for alumni who continue to pour into our students and give them practical wisdom!

Top 3 in chair building competition

Mr. Schirber working with his students

Robotics Earned First Place at Brainerd International Raceway

Southwest Christian Robotics earned first place in the eco mileage competition at the Brainerd International Speedway on May 12–14, 2024!

Colleges and high schools across the nation compete each year.There were 14 teams in their electric class. The robotics team begins working on their prototype in January and meets after school and on weekends. This is the best finish SWC has ever had at this event.

Ava Hagen competed in the 2024 DECA international competition in Anaheim, California. Hagen qualified for the Hotel & Lodging Management event and was accompanied by DECA president Julia Barce who attended the Aspire Academy for DECA student leaders. The pair, along with DECA Advisor Melissa Molin, visited Disneyland in their free time. These ladies represented their school well at DECA's ICDC!

Josh Engler Earns Naval Academy Appointment

Senior Josh Engler was awarded an appointment to the United States Naval Academy.

Applicants to a service academy must have stellar qualifications in academics, athletics, and leadership, plus earn a nomination in a highly competitive process from their state congressman or senator. Only 19 students from the state of Minnesota were given an appointment to USNA, and only 1200 midshipmen were invited to attend out of 16,000 applicants.

An appointment to one of the US service academies provides a fouryear scholarship and military training estimated at $450,000 per student. It requires a commitment to serve a minimum of five years on active duty. All cadets and midshipmen earn a B.S. degree.

"Josh is an incredibly gifted young man who has been a tremendous blessing to the SWCHS community," said Head of School Dan Beckering. "We are proud to have Josh as one of our graduates and are very excited to see how God uses him at the United States Naval Academy."

Ava Hagen Competed at

TEACHING FOR TRANSFORMATION

Southwest Christian just completed our sixth year under the Teaching for Transformation (TfT) framework designed for Christian education to help activate the vision in the classroom.

Encouraged by this framework, teachers design classroom instruction and activities to help students see the deeper connections between the content and God's story. Once they've been invited to see the story of God's Kingdom, they're empowered to live the story through their learning work.

Multiple days of faculty professional development are set aside each year for deepening TfT practices.

3 Core Practices

Each teacher crafts a Deep Hope to help students see the deeper connections between the course content and biblical truth.

Teachers align their curriculum towards 6 SWCHS Throughlines (listed below).

Teachers design Formational Learning Experiences (FLEx) to invite our students into action. (Read about two of this year's FLEx projects on pages 14–15.)

What is a Throughline?

Throughlines are the "outcomes" we hope to see when students graduate from SWC. Throughlines are discipleship habits and practices that form the learners and transform God’s world around them. Throughlines help students, teachers, and parents imagine what it means to be a disciple within God’s story. They articulate a vision for how our school’s graduates will live.

English 9: 'Seekers of Justice' Throughline

by Rachel Minerich, English 9 Faculty

At Southwest Christian, we believe students are best served when teachers partner together to further the growth and deepen the faith of the young people we love through the core practice of TfT throughlines. The freshman class focused on the throughline of Justice Seekers in February and March of 2024 in their English class while reading Harper Lee's To Kill A Mockingbird. The entire class gathered to learn from two SWC staff, Shani Johnson and Jane Krause, who went on a Sankofa journey through Tennessee, Alabama, and Georgia last fall. "Sankofa" is a Ghanian phrase that encourages “learning from the past to inform the future, reaching back to move forward, and lifting as we climb.” Mrs. Johnson and Mrs. Krause shared their experience to give students insight into the dehumanizing, injustice of our country's past history of slavery.

Students and discipleship group leaders then reflected on what we learned about society’s brokenness and invited the students to think about how they can learn from the past to live out God’s Word in the present. This journey was rooted in Micah 6:8: “He has told you what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?”

Ultimately, learning about the cultual context of slavery, reconstruction, and the era of civil rights enabled students to understand the importance of Harper Lee’s novel and showed them how critical it is to navigate and discuss the challenging topics of racism and injustice in our world.

Through reading about how Atticus, Jem, and Scout react and respond to the ugliness of ostracism and blatant injustice, our students learned how difficult, yet important, it is to live as followers of Jesus who are called to be countercultural. Challenging the students to grow in their empathy, perspective, and understanding bore much fruit as evidenced through their discussions and writing; their heightened awareness of injustices in America, in their community, and even in their school motivated many of them to actively change their actions toward others. It is our prayer that SWCHS students will continue to "do justice, love kindness, and walk humbly with God" as Christians are exhorted in Micah 6:8.

Explore the Deep Hopes of Staff & Faculty Read the full TfT

Earth & Space Science: 'Stewards of God's Creation' Throughline

by Dr. Thor Benson, Science Faculty

In conjunction with Trout Unlimited (TU), Dr. Benson’s Earth & Space Science (ESS) class participated in a semester-long Trout in the Classroom project as part of their hydrosphere unit this spring. Students welcomed 600 rainbow trout eggs from the MN DNR on December 6 and released them as fingerlings into their natural habitat in late spring. Students calculated the dates for the egg hatch, the alevin swim-up, and the feedings for the trout. The ESS students routinely conducted water chemistry labs testing for pH, ammonia, nitrites, and nitrates to determine necessary water changes to ensure tank health amidst the stable, chilly 52-degree water. Tyler Krommendyk (‘25), Luca Bredenberg (‘24), and Audrey Monsen (‘24) played pivotal roles in monitoring and sustaining the tank’s temperature, ecosystem health, and feeding schedules throughout the semester.

In honor of Earth Day in an effort to learn more about ecosystems and trout habitats, some of the students also ventured to Eagle Creek in Savage to participate in a TU habitat restoration project which included the removal of buckthorn, stream bank reinforcement, and trash pick-up. At SWC's Grandparent’s Day, students shared their newly acquired knowledge of the trout life cycle and their skills of water testing with their grandparents as fellow laboratorians.

On May 16, the students headed to the Vermillion River in Farmington where they met Amber Taylor and Evan Griggs, education specialists from TU. Students released the trout into the DNR-approved Vermillion, donned hip waders, conducted a macro-invertebrate study using kick nets and dichotomous keys, and concluded with a lesson on fly casting.

The hope of this project was rooted in helping students experience hands-on learning that connected their classroom curriculum to real needs while doing the work of a scientist. As an indicator species, trout provide an immense amount of information about the natural habitats around us.

As students explored what it meant to be stewards of creation, they gained a deeper appreciation for God’s creation and saw themselves as restorative agents to their local ecosystem.

This deep hope is reflected in a few student comments: “I saw myself as a steward of creation, because I got to take my love of fishing and bring it to the classroom. It’s not every day that you get to take something you love and bring it into different classes. This type of work matters because God calls us to be stewards of creation and appreciate God’s creation by preserving it and caring for others.”

Another student commented: “I see myself better as a steward of creation now because of how much better I understand creation. I want to use what I know now to glorify God and preserve his creation for decades to come.”

While the fish venture down the Vermillion River in their natural habitat, Dr. Benson plans to continue this trout in the classroom project with his students next year.

Krommendyk & Bredenberg with the Trout eggs

Releasing the trout on May 16 in the Vermillion River

Thank you to Trout Unlimited for their partnership!

CELEBRATING STAFF & FACULTY

Greg Sayuk: Celebrating 20 years!

Greg Sayuk has served in many roles at Southwest Christian since 2005. In addition to athletic director, assistant athletic director, head volleyball coach, assistant baseball coach, and assistant boys hockey coach, Mr. Sayuk has held many roles in addition to "teacher." As a long-standing member of the SWC faculty, he has taught English, Team Sports, Speech, Video Production, Yearbook, Graphic Design, Boys Health, Film Theory, and Digital Arts. He has served and mentored hundreds of students in a variety of roles and responsibilites.

If you ask many of our graduates, one of the most memorable events was Sayuk's rapping act during the 2019 Night of Stars performance. We are grateful for Greg's commitment to Christian education, his investment in his students, and his 20 years of service at Southwest Christian.

Peter Welle Earns Outstanding Educator Award

Southwest Christian’s Peter Welle was recognized on October 5, 2023, with an Outstanding Educator Award. Welle was one of three educators honored by Synergy & Leadership Exchange for outstanding accomplishments and contributions to student learning. His award comes in the Teacher Achievement category, which recognizes exemplary teachers who support, inspire, and assist students to attain greater learning as evidenced by student achievement.

Peter Welle has been teaching for 18 years. He loves helping his students make sense of the world and walking alongside them as they explore the questions and challenges of the past. He wants to equip his students with all the background knowledge they need for their journey, but also liberate social studies class from the “tyranny of worksheets.” Welle has built a reputation as an engaging teacher who brings social studies classes to life.

Thank you for your service, Dr. Darin Keizer!

Dr. Darin Keizer has served as our athletic director for the past 10 years. Since joining SWCHS in 2014, Keizer launched six new athletic programs and led 80 coaches in the athletic department. He also was a part of the building committee for the newly opened athletic complex. One of his greatest contributions to SWCHS was his commitment to invest and raise up the young men in our school.

Darin and his family relocated to Sioux Center, Iowa, this summer as he started his role as the athletic director at Dordt University. Darin and his wife, Jenna, are both graduates of Dordt University. We are grateful for his discipleship, leadership, and vision-casting for our athletic department.

Faculty & Staff 2023–204 Recognition Awards

Excellence in Department or Program Advancement:

- Demonstrated innovation to grow the size and/or quality of the department.

- Effectively promoted the values, goals, and accomplishments of their department to the SWCHS community and broader community

- Exemplified collaboration and teamwork across and within the department

2024 Winner: Admissions Department

With the growing size of the school and the desire for Christian education, the admissions department has created a system to promote the school, reach potential and existing families, and determine the best fit for both the school and the family. Once students enroll, the admissions staff continue to work with students into the school year to make sure they make friends and other ways of helping students connect and enjoy a great experience at SWCHS.

Excellence in Instructional Practice:

- Demonstrated the posture of a learner and exemplified effective, enthusiastic, and quality instruction

- Self-development through personal growth, scholarship in their field, and growth in instructional practice

- Actively engaged in discipleship opportunities

2024 Winner: Jane Krause

Jane Krause is such a passionate teacher and has a heart for students, especially those who struggle more with math. Students leave Jane’s class with greater confidence in math and a greater ability to overcome adversity. A colleage stated, "Whenever I am around Jane’s teaching, I am inspired to improve my craft."

Excellence in Professional Practice:

- Identified creative solutions that add value to the organization’s ability to fulfill its vision

- Resourceful leadership who proactively guides others to best practices

- Placed the needs of fellow employees above their own and modeled Christ while performing their role

2024 Winner: Randy Overstreet

Randy Overstreet is an amazing servant leader! He is always looking for ways to help everyone. Randy is respectful and humble and remains calm. Randy is always striving for excellence and improvement and proceeds in a systematic approach.

Commitment to Discipleship:

- Taught, mentored, challenged, and supported students/colleagues in growing as mature disciples of Jesus

- Actively cared for, listened to, and lovingly spoke into the lives of students and/or colleagues

- Sought to foster and model servant-hearted leadership in students’ or colleagues’ lives

2024 Winner: Rob Wassenaar

Rob Wassenaar uses biblical principles in his technique of correcting, guiding, and loving our students. Rob has been a pillar of making students feel loved and cared for at SWC. Rob knows more about students than almost anyone on campus and loves them patiently and well despite his inner knowledge of their flaws and mistakes.

Academic Honors

Congratulations to the following students who achieved a weighted GPA of 3.8 or higher in 2023–24

Levi Abbring*

Lillie Abdo

Lily Adams-Trost

Bria Alpaugh*

Lucy Amiot

Addie Anderson*

Victoria Anderson

Kaitlyn Anderson

Aly Anderson

Gavin Armitage

Braden Arsenault*

Michael Azanov

Harvey Bachman

Isaac Banken

Celeste Banks

Luke Barbee*

Julia Barce

Max Baskakov

Anneliese Batdorf*

Kate Beard*

Alexa Bearder*

Kylie Beckering*

Avery Beckering

Brayden Beckering*

Breanna Beckering

Liv Bengtson*

Molly Benson*

Nathan Bergman*

Judah Berry

Jake Bettin

Cole Bjerke

Tabi Blatzheim

Titus Blatzheim*

Savannah Blohowiak

Dalaney Book*

Greta Book*

Bella Boos

Peter Bosch*

Emilyn Bosch

Maddie Brands*

Luca Bredenberg*

Bennett Breuer

Harry Briggs

Bethie Bristol

Jaclyn Brouwer*

Maddy Brown*

Grace Brown

Rae Buchholtz

Zion Buck

Zeke Buck

Zephaniah Buck

Aubrey Burkhart*

Caitlin Cagley

Lizzy Callahan

Elena Carlson*

Evie Carlson*

Emma Carlson

Vera Carlson

Eric Carlson

Kelly Carter*

Cosette Carto*

Elliott Caven

Sadie Cinnamon*

Gigi Coleman

Liz Coleman

Katelyn Cook

Rachel Cook

Hannah Cox

Chris Crum Jr.*

Jimmy Dahlen

Evie Danz*

Joshua Daun

Brett Davis

Emma Davis

Josie Dederichs

Eli DeKam*

Ada Dekkers*

Eli Dekkers

Ashlyn Denton*

Drew Denton*

Tori Dodds

Luke Dore*

Emory Dorsett

Claire Duncan

Adam Dye

Sam Eagen

Asher Eichmeyer

Evan Eisma

Sophia Elliott*

Carter Engholm*

Josh Engler*

Lucas Engler

Sophie Ertel

Olivia Esch*

Gianna Faber

Eliana Ferrin

Wyatt Fiedler

Izzy Fletcher*

Sydney Foss

Aidan Foss*

Emma Fransen

Reese Fritz

Nora Ganske*

Wade Ganske*

Jonah Garneau

Isaiah Garneau

Lily Gauger*

Peter Gauger*

Lila Gmetro

Nick Goldsmith

Ella Gordon*

Stella Greenwood

Scotty Greer

Hallie Greer

Jared Greiner*

Natalie Griep

Micah Gueldner*

Cooper Gunhus*

Ava Hagen

Maddy Hamdorf

Greer Hardacre

Tate Hardacre

Gisella Harder*

Abby Harmon*

Hailey Hartwell*

Evan Harvath

Gerrit Hedman

Eve Hegstrom

Ellie Hegstrom

Benjamin Helm

Elle Herz

Joshua Hill

Carter Hjelmberg

Kendall Hoag*

Kjersten Hoehne

Natalie Hoekman*

Sadie Hoekstra

Emily Hoernemann

Violet Hoese

Ethan Holthusen*

Sydney Holtz

Madeline Hotchkiss*

Audrey Hough*

Eden Hoyord

Katilyn Hubert

Iris Hulsing

Logan Humphreys

Jenna Huotari*

Braden Huston*

Ava Indovina*

Dagny Ingram*

Saajid Islam*

Lydia Jaeger

Evan Johnson*

Maya Johnson*

Henry Johnson

Graceanne Jones*

William Kail*

Grant Kaisersatt

Erin Karlson

Tiv Kennedy

Megan Kimble*

Logan Kimmel*

Henry Kimmel

Gwyn Kleinprintz

Nolan Kleinprintz

Brelynn Koehler

Sara Koester

Jaaron Konkel

Nate Krietlow

Tyler Krommendyk

Christina Kummer

Savannah Larson*

Clara Lauerman

Avery Laugen*

Carissa Lee*

Maggie Leighton

Kaia Lein

Claire Lemkuil*

Ben Lindberg

Noah Lodermeier

Jacob Lodermeier

Abby Loehr

Lindsey Lohrenz

Amanda Long*

Nora Lundeen*

Lily Lundgren*

Jack Lundgren

Elli Lundquist*

Makenna Mapstone*

Sophie Marshall

Sam Martin

Bennett May

Jameson McCarthy

Kennedy McHale

Ava McIntosh*

Sophia McIntosh*

Ella Meger

Cade Mellema

Joellen Merkle

Reese Merritt*

Chase Michielson

Taylor Miedema*

Carter Miedema

Elise Miles

Isaiah Miles

Madelynne Miner*

Daniel Mogollon

Gordie Molin*

Sonja Molin

Audrey Monsen*

Lilly Moore*

Kaja Nash

Ava Nelson

AJ Newell

Andrew Nicholson

Danny Nicholson

Anna Nykanen*

Lizzy Nykanen

Lily O'Leary

Sierra Orvik

Ryleigh Paine*

Erika Park*

Gannon Paschke*

Gabe Pluth

Sophie Phinney

Savannah Pottebaum

Jace Rains*

Nadia Ramli

Catie Rasmussen

Sofia Reeves*

Mason Reeves

Courtney Rehbein*

Caleb Reisner

Jackson Remus

Kiera Riemer

Ella Ringer*

Jemima Robillard

Riley Rodriguez*

Mercy Roemer

Karl Roepke

Marcus Rosten

Bryson Rotz*

Delilah Rotz

Lottie Ruch

Ellie Salyards*

Keely Sandness

Josie Santjer*

Erin Grace Savitt*

Addi Scheidt

Macy Scheppmann*

Maddie Schmidt*

Natalie Schmieg*

Hallie Sendelbach

Liliana Seyller*

Vivian Sindelar

Adam Skaret

Julia Skaret

Colin Skoog

Sydney Skoog*

Alyssa Smetak

Summer Smith

Grace Sommerness*

Abby Sorenson*

Max Stapleton*

Adelia Stay

Eric Stelter*

Chloe Stiernagle

Benny Strain

Jed Streed

Rachel Strelnieks

Emma Swayne*

Finn Swenson

Lou Swenson

Alison Tchida

Brandt Tebbs

Alaina Terpstra

Craig Thomas

Graham Thompson*

Genevieve Thorsen

Isabella Travis*

Brody Uglum

Bailey Ursel

Nick Van Beusekom

Kayla Van Dyken*

Nataley Vassar*

Evan Vick

Sadie Vietzen

Braden Vis

Katelynnd Voigt

Avery Wagaman*

Amelia Wagner*

Kylie Waldron*

Julianna Wall*

Brock Walmer*

Lucy Waymire

Daniel Wechter*

Libby Weckman*

Max Weckman

Isaac Weinacht*

Wyatt Wercinski

Kaitlyn Wercinski*

Brody Wercinski

Abby White

Max Widdifield

Max Wiegert

Autumn Wiens*

Jack Wiens

Isabel Williamson-Hughes

Abigail Wolff*

Elizabeth Wolff*

Mason Wood

Mackenzie Wright

Davis Wurst

Cole Zimmerman

Elise Zimmerman*

Hailey Zitzloff

Jack Zylstra*

Katherine Zylstra

*National Honor Society member

94% of our students passed the national AP World History exam vs. 47.5% national pass rate. 47% 94%

ARTISTIC EXCELLENCE

Visual Arts Recognition

MSHSL Section 4A

Visual Arts Tournament

SUPERIOR RATING

Stella Greenwood, ceramics

EXCELLENT RATING

Sonja Molin, drawing

Lu Amiot, painting

Aly Anderson, painting

Luke Barbee, drawing

Avery Wagaman, drawing

Sophie Treguboff, drawing

Iris Hulsing, drawing

Bria Alpaugh, digital drawing

Aidan Foss, photography

Jonah Garneau, video

Rachel Strelnieks, graphic design

Articulate Excellence Red Ribbon Awards

DRAWING

Caitlin Cagley, Hands with Headphones

Henry Kimmel, Self Portrait

Iris Hulsing, portraits

Bria Alpaugh, Steampunk Birds

Sophie Treguboff, You and Me, Me and You

PAINTING

Kaitlyn Cook, Jewish Wedding In Germany

Vera Carlson, Grizzly

Lu Amoit, La Rana

CERAMICS

Stella Greenwood, ceramics

Elizabeth Jacques, Mushroom

Sophie Ertel, Casserole

Micah Gueldner, Nesting Plates

Eden Hoyard, Slab Story: Spring Break Memories

Eldana Fresseha, Slab Story: Ethiopia

PHOTOGRAPHY

Savannah Blohowiak, Fulfilling Hope

Aidan Foss, Abstracts

McKinzie Smith, Golden Globe

Evan Johnson, Double Exposure

GRAPHIC DESIGN

Vinny Ferrara, Smash

Adam Dye, Personal Logo

Braden Huston, Edina Grill

Lizzy Callahan, Gameday

VIDEO PRODUCTION

Jonah Garneau, A Shocking Hire

Scholastic Art Awards

Silver Key, Caitlin Cagley, drawing

Great Commission Artists:

Erika Park, digital art

Bria Alpaugh, drawing

Iris Hulsing, painting (picture to right)

Elliott Caven, ink drawing

Sophie Treguboff, painting

Anneliese Batdorf, photography

Jackson Andrews, photography

Savannah Blohowiak, photography

Olivia Esch, photography

Alaina Terpstra, photography

AP Art and Design Students

3D Art and Design Portfolio

Cosette Carto, Stella Greenwood

Drawing Portfolio

Bria Alpaugh, Kaitlyn Cook, Iris Hulsing, Elizabeth Jacques, Erika Park, Sophie Treguboff, Katelynnd Voigt, Avery Wagaman

2023-24 POIEMA Editor

Erika Park

Student Spotlight: Iris

Hulsing

2024 Excellence in Art Award

"Iris is truly a creative individual. Her work exemplifies a visual representation of a unique, artistic voice — both thoughtful and intentional.

Whether she is working with pencil, a computer, or a paint brush, iris has exemplified her God-given talent to visually express her thoughts, feelings, and ideas. Iris creates a personal connection in her work. Her level of commitment expresses growth and maturity. In her time at SWCHS, she has participated in the visual arts each semester. One artwork I remember most is your reflected piece after your trip to the Dominican Republic. See this work brought tears to my eyes. You pour your heart into what you create, and it is beautiful.”

— Visual Arts Director Stephanie Pieske

Music Recognition

2023-24 Honor Ensembles

MMEA All-State Orchestra

Amelia Wagner, Violin 1

MMEA All-State Jazz Band

Cooper Gunhus, Vibraphone/Aux.

Gordie Molin, Drums

MMEA All-State Choir

Lily Adams-Trost, SSAA, Soprano 2

Avery Wagaman, Mixed, Soprano 1

Wright County Conference

Honor Band

Katelyn Cook - Flute

Tori Dodds - Trombone

Cooper Gunhus - Percussion

Logan Kimmel - Trumpet

University of NorthwesternSt. Paul Honor Band

Matthew Brands

Tori Dodds

Dordt University

Honor Band

Matthew Brands

Tori Dodds

Iona Heddle

State Level

Instrumental Solo & Ensemble

Excellent Rating

Matthew Brands

Tori Dodds

Jace Dovolis

Logan Kimmel

Instrumental Solo & Ensemble

Superior Rating

Elisha Berry

Gerrit Hedman

Genesis Tholkes

Amelia Wagner #

Vocal Solo & Ensemble

Superior Rating

Lily Adams-Trost

Celeste Banks

Alexa Bearder

Matthew Brands

Sadie Cinnamon

Joshua Daun

Avery Wagaman

Local Level

Instrumental Solo & Ensemble

Superior Rating

Bria Alpaugh **

Elisha Berry

Matthew Brands **

Katelyn Cook *

Tori Dodds

Jace Dovolis

Lily Gauger

Cooper Gunhus #

Gerrit Hedman

Jenna Huotari

Logan Kimmel **

Carissa Lee *

Gordie Molin #

Anna Nykanen **

Genesis Tholkes **

Amelia Wagner *#

Jazz Band: Bria Alpaugh, Matthew Brands, Katelyn Cook, Tori Dodds, Jace Dovolis, Josh Engler, Cooper Gunhus, Logan Kimmel, Jaaron Konkel, Teagan Matheson, Gordie Molin, Anna Nykanen

Vocal Solo & Ensemble

Superior Rating

Lily Adams-Trost

Victoria Anderson

Celeste Banks

Kate Beard*

Alexa Bearder

Avery Beckering

Kylie Beckering

Emilyn Bosch

Maddie Brands

Matthew Brands

Anna Brooks

Elena Carlson

Evelyn Carlson **

Sadie Cinnamon **

Hannah Cox

Joshua Daun

Sophia Elliot

Lucas Engler

Aubrie Fetzer

Sydney Foss **

Scottlynn Greer

Ethan Groninga

Lydia Jaeger

Chloe Johanson

Sara Koester

Savannah Larson *

Avery Laugen

Abby Loehr

Reese Merritt

Audrey Monson

Lillian Moore

Marcus Rosten

Lucy Russell

Sydney Skoog

Summer Smith

Nolan Stone

Sam Thorson

Nataley Vassar

Avery Wagaman *#

Max Widdifield

Abigail Wolff

Elizabeth Wolff

Mackenzie Wright

Elise Zimmerman

Katherine Zylstra

* Best in Site

** Honorable Mention

# Perfect Score (40/40)

Instrumental Practice

Minute Winners

Amelia Wagner (10k min)

Gordie Molin (10k min)

Katelyn Cook (7k min)

Matthew Brands (3k min)

Excellence in Music

Instrumental

Outstanding Musician

Katelyn Cook

Gordie Molin

Choral

Outstanding Musician

Kate Beard

Savannah Larson

Star Seniors

These seniors exemplified all three areas of excellence: academic, artistic, and athletic excellence. They maintained a GPA of 3.6 or higher while participating in both performing arts and athletics.

Kylie Beckering: Chamber Singers, Volleyball, Basketball

Zion Buck: Symphonic Band, Cross Country, Track

Josh Daun: Chamber Singers, Cross Country, Track

Josh Engler: Jazz Band, Chamber Ensemble, Soccer

Lily Gauger: Symphonic Band, Soccer, Lacrosse

Jaaron Konkel: Symphonic Band, Football

Joellen Merkle: Una Voce, Cross Country

Audrey Monsen: Chamber Singers, Una Voce, Tennis, Dance

Gordie Molin: Symphonic Band, Chamber Ensemble, Jazz Band, Drumline, Basketball, Golf

Lillian Moore: Chamber Singers, Tennis

AJ Newell: String Orchestra, Chamber Ensemble, Baseball, Basketball

Evan Vick: Chamber Singers, Soccer

Theater Recognition

Fall Play

Best Performer — Leading Role

Anna Nykanen

Best Performer — Supporting Role

Carter Hjelmberg

Best Performer — Ensemble Role

Katherine Zylstra

Hardest Worker

Teagan Matheson

Outstanding Crew Member

Teagan Matheson

Team Player

Lucy Russell

Morale Booster

Matthew Brands

Most Improved

Hannah Lassen

SoFresh

Best Performer — Leading Role

Max Baskakov

Best Performer — Supporting Role

Mercy Roemer

Best Performer — Ensemble Role

Alexa Bearder

Hardest Worker

Max Baskakov

Team Player

Alexa Beader

Morale Booster

Iona Heddle

Most Improved

Samuel Eagen

Outstanding Crew Member

Graham Thompson

Spring Musical

Best Performer — Leading Role

Savannah Larson

Best Performer— Supporting Role

Evie Carlson

Best Performer — Ensemble Role

Tori Dodds

Hardest Worker

Jack Zylstra

Team Player

Matthew Brands

Morale Booster

Sydney Foss

Most Improved

Carter Hjelmberg

Outstanding Crew Member

Teagan Matheson

Spring Musical Spotlight Education

Hennepin Theatre Trust Awards

Overall Technical Production

Honorable Mention

Run Crew

Outstanding

Outstanding Performance in a Leading Role

Savannah Larson

Honorable Mention in a Supporting Role

Evie Carlson

Outstanding in Technical Leadership

Kaden Israelson, Anna Nykanen

Honorable Mention in Technical Leadership

Teagan Matheson

Evaluator Shoutouts

Jack Zylstra, Lucy Russell, Sydney Foss, Ensemble Vocal Performance, Ensemble Dance Performance, Ensemble Acting Performance

A Note From Our Theater Director, Megan

Liesmaki

My first year as the theater director at Southwest Christian has been an incredible, rewarding, and fulfilling experience. While there have been innumerable joys, learning curves, and surprises, the students have been the undeniable highlight. It is a privilege to create art with young adults who are excited to tell stories and collaborate. From the beginning of the year, I was impressed with the leadership, ability to foster a welcoming culture, desire to work hard, and talent that the students were exhibiting.

I feel utterly grateful to work in a school that values discipleship and a Christ-centered education that extends from academics to extracurriculars. Having the opportunity to combine my faith, passion, and love for students is a dream come true. I look forward to continuing to foster relationships and create art with the students of Southwest Christian High School.

FALL ATHLETICS ATHLETIC EXCELLENCE

GIRLS VOLLEYBALL

Gold Standard GPA

3.8 Average GPA

Overall Record

28 Wins, 6 Losses

Conference Record

4 Wins, 1 Loss

Awards/Honors

3rd Place Class AA State Tournament

All Conference

Luca Bredenberg

Taylor Miedema

AC - Honorable Mention

Kylie Beckering

Maddie Schmidt

All State

Luca Bredenberg

Taylor Miedema

AA State All-Tournament

Luca Bredenberg

Maddie Schmidt

GIRLS SOCCER

Gold Standard GPA

3.77 Average GPA

Season Record

18 Wins, 2 Losses, 1 Tie

Conference Record

6 Wins, 0 Losses, 1 Tie

Awards/Honors

4th Place Class A State Tournament

All Conference

Saraphina Bettin

Aubrey Burkhart

Bella Travis

Maya Johnson

AC - Honorable Mention

Sophie Ertel

Madeline Hotchkiss

Hailey Hartwell

All State - 1st Team

Saraphina Bettin

Aubrey Burkhart

All State - 2nd Team

Bella Travis

Maya Johnson

BOYS SOCCER

Silver Standard GPA

3.53 Average GPA

Season Record

8 Wins, 6 Losses, 4 Ties

Conference Record

4 Wins, 0 Losses, 2 Ties

All Conference

Jacob Bettin

Brayden Beckering

Andrew Perry

Max Widdifield

AC - Honorable Mention

Evan Vick

All State - 1st Team

Jacob Bettin

Brayden Beckering

Andrew Perry

Mr. Soccer

Jake Bettin

GIRLS TENNIS

Gold Standard GPA

3.78 Average GPA

Overall Record

3 Wins, 8 Losses

Conference Record

0 Wins, 4 Losses

All Conference

Ella Ringer

AC - Honorable Mention

Addie Anderson

GIRLS CROSS COUNTRY

Silver Standard GPA

3.67 Average GPA

BOYS CROSS COUNTRY

Gold Standard GPA

3.55 Average GPA

All Conference

Judah Berry

Wyatt Wercinski

AC - Honorable Mention

Cameron Tarman

Joshua Daun

BOYS BASKETBALL

Silver Standard GPA

3.5 Average GPA

Overall Record

18 Wins, 9 Losses

Conference Record

6 Wins, 4 Losses

All Conference

Brayden Beckering

Isaac Tollefson

AC - Honorable Mention

Mason Wood

BOYS HOCKEY

Overall Record

17 Wins, 11 Losses

BASEBALL

Gold Standard GPA

3.59 Average GPA

Overall Record

16 Wins, 8 Losses

Conference Record

GIRLS BASKETBALL

Gold Standard GPA

3.86 Average GPA

Overall Record

18 Wins, 11 Losses

Conference Record

6 Wins, 4 Losses

All Conference

Aubrey Burkhart

Maddy Hamdorf

AC - Honorable Mention

Kaja Nash

Kylie Beckering

Hallie Greer

Conference Record

4 Wins, 5 Losses

Notables

Section Finals for the first time

All Conference

Jared Greiner

Jannes Kamp

DANCE

Silver Standard GPA

3.62 Average GPA

All Conference

Audrey Monsen

7 Wins, 3 Losses

Notables

Final top 10 ranking in the state

All Conference

Melvin Maldonado

AJ Newell

Zach Trettin

AC - Honorable Mention

Ben Lindberg

Max Wiegert

Cruz Winegarden

SOFTBALL

Gold Standard GPA

3.587 Average GPA

Overall Record

10 Wins, 13 Losses, 1 Tie

Conference Record

2 Wins, 7 Losses, 1 Tie

All Conference

McKinzie Smith

AC - Honorable Mention

Brynn Gorman

Emily Hoernemann

Brooke Horkey

Abby White

BOYS

TENNIS

Gold Standard GPA

3.648 Average GPA

Overall Record

10 Wins, 8 Losses

Conference Record

3 Wins, 2 Losses

Notables

Section Finals

All Conference

Evan Johnson

Cameron Thomas

AC - Honorable Mention

Mateo Schneibel

GIRLS TRACK & FIELD

Gold Standard GPA

3.728 Average GPA

All Conference

Maya Johnson

Ada Dekkers

Kaitlyn Wercinski

Kaia Lein

Sophie Ertel

BOYS TRACK & FIELD

Gold Standard GPA

3.697 Average GPA

All Conference

Wyatt Wercinski

Zion Buck

AC - Honorable Mention

Grant Kaisersatt

GIRLS GOLF

Gold Standard GPA

3.807 Average GPA

All Conference

Kendall Hoag

Autumn Wiens

AC - Honorable Mention

Madeline Hotchkiss

Lily Lundgren

State Qualifier

Kendall Hoag

BOYS GOLF

Gold Standard GPA

3.624 Average GPA

All Conference

Bennett Breuer

Henry Johnson

Kael Lundquist

Ryder Rose

State Qualifier

Bennett Breuer

GIRLS LACROSSE

Gold Standard GPA

3.553 Average GPA

Overall Record

13 Wins, 2 Losses

Conference Record

7 Wins, 0 Losses

Notables

Conference Champions

All Conference

Ella Bjorkland

Gisella Harder

Chloe Johanson

Addision Kraus

Elise Toews

AC - Honorable Mention

Sienna Bendell

Molly Benson

Lily Gauger

Ella Ringer

BOYS LACROSSE

Gold Standard GPA

3.397 Average GPA

Overall Record

10 Wins, 5 Losses

Conference Record

7 Wins, 1 Loss

Notables

Conference Champions

All Conference

Ashton Hendel

Gannon Paschke

Evan Vick

Max Widdifield

AC - Honorable Mention

Albert Baklund

Chase Michielson

Dylan Trbil Luke Woese

CO-OP SPORTS

FOOTBALL

(Co-Op with Mound Westonka)

Silver Standard GPA

3.5 Average GPA

Season Record

7 Wins, 2 Losses

ACADEMIC ALL-CONFERENCE

Levi Abbring

Victoria Anderson

Alyssa Anderson

Gavin Armitage

Braden Arsenault

Luke Barbee

Kylie Beckering

Livia Bengtson

Molly Benson

Judah Berry

Savannah Blohowiak

Emilyn Bosch

Luca Bredenberg

Grace Brown

Madalynn Brown

Aubrey Burkhart

Elizabeth Callahan

Cosette Carto

Josie Dederichs

Ada Dekkers

Drew Denton

Adam Dye

Sophia Elliot

Josh Engler

Sophie Ertel

Isabella Fletcher

Sydney Foss

Wade Ganske

Lily Gauger

Peter Gauger

Gisella Harder

Abigail Harmon

Hailey Hartwell

Elleana Herz

Sadie Hoekstra

Emily Hoernemann

Dagny Ingram

Evan Johnson

Logan Kimmel

Jaaron Konkel

Avery Laugen

Kaia Lein

GIRLS HOCKEY (Co-Op with Mound Westonka)

Silver Standard GPA

3.74 Average GPA

Season Record

18 Wins, 8 Losses, 1 Tie

Conference Record

6 Wins, 1 Loss

All Conference

Greer Hardacre

Elizabeth Callahan

Ben Lindberg

Noah Lodermeier

Makenna Mapstone

Ava McIntosh

Sophia McIntosh

Cade Mellema

Reese Merritt

Taylor Miedema

Gordon Molin

Audrey Monsen

Lizzy Nykanen

Riley Rodriguez

Karl Roepke

Madeline Schmidt

Adelia Stay

Isabella Travis

Sadie Vietzen

Brock Walmer

Libby Weckman

Kaitlyn Wercinski

Wyatt Wercinski

Abigail White

Autumn Wiens

Girls Soccer First State Run Earns 4th Place

The young squad had two seniors on varsity. Midway through the year, the players realized something special was happening on and off the field and were committed to doing everything possible to represent SWC and Christ. Girls soccer won the conference and the section championship, went undefeated in the regular season, and finished first in the coaches' poll.

This team was the program’s first trip to the Girls Soccer Class A State Tournament. They won the first round of state playoffs and advanced to the U.S. Bank Stadium for the semi-finals where they would take home fourth place. Congratulations to the girls soccer team for their excellent on-field results as well as the way that they represented the school and soccer program both on and off of the field!

Girls Volleyball Finishes 3rd in Class AA State Tournament

Girls volleyball had success both on and off the court. The team had an average GPA of 3.8 and ended the season with the best finish in school history. Previously, girls volleyball has won the Class A State Championship, but since moving to Class AA, volleyball has not placed. With 11 seniors, this team was led well. From pregame dance parties in the locker room to team dinners, this group of girls had a special bond for the 2023 season.

Congratulations to the girls volleyball for representing Christ well on and off the court! You have so much to be proud of and will leave a legacy!

Boys Hockey Finish Program Best Season

Hockey continues to build a stronger, more competitive program as it wrapped up its eighth year as a co-op host with Richfield High School.

This year, the team finished with a 17-11 record with a season-ending ranking in the top 20. The MSHSL moved Stars hockey from Section 2A to 4A. The team didn’t have any prior games with Section 4A teams. The boys embraced the challenge, and it led to a number of firsts for the program: first quarterfinal and semi-final section wins in program history and were an overtime goal away from a first-ever appearance to the state tournament. Eight seniors, some of who skated varsity all four years, all contributed to solidifying the program. This next season, 17 incoming freshmen will be looking to replenish the roster.

Boys Lacrosse Finish Program-Best

Boys lacrosse concluded their 2024 season with a programhigh record of 10-5 (including three one-goal losses).

Guided by their team motto of ‘something more,” the team demonstrated resilience, commitment, teamwork, and a sense of brotherhood throughout the season. The boys achieved the program’s first Wright County conference championship.

This season, the Stars also celebrated a few firsts for the program with at least one win against every conference opponent, scoring the highest number of goals in a game (21), hosting two players (Junior Ashton Hendel and Senior Luke Woese) on the state leaderboard for goals and assists, and earning an overall QRF ranking of 18th in the state. The Stars' offense and defense worked cohesively, backed by strong leadership of captains and players both on and off the field. Looking ahead, the Stars boys lacrosse program continues to build on their successes from the 2024 season as they aim to maintain their competitive edge and honor God on and off the lacrosse field.

Girls Lacrosse Named Conference Champions

The girls lacrosse team committed to working very hard in the off-season to continue to grow the program. The effort paid off with many program records recorded including Wright County Conference Champions, a #5 ranking in the state, compiling a 13-2 record, scoring the most goals in program history, and allowing the fewest goals in a season. They had a 3.78 unweighted team GPA. The squad's greatest accomplishment was how they represented the STARS Lacrosse Program both on and off the field. Many friendships were formed and strengthened, and lifetime memories were made.

GIRLS GOLF

Kendall Hoag

Congrats to our 2023–24 Individual State Qualifiers

BOYS GOLF

Bennett Breuer

TRACK & FIELD

Kaia Lein, Maya Johnson, Kaitlyn Wercinski, Zion Buck, Zeke Buck, Ada Dekkers, Grant Kaisersatt, Wyatt Wercinksi (Not Pictured: Sophie Ertel)

CLASS OF 2024

Deuteronomy 31:8

“The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.”

Tyler James Aitchison Utah State University, Professional Pilot

Addie Jane Anderson** Anderson University, Undecided

Gabrielle Alexis Antonovich* University of Kansas, Business

Isaac Quinton Banken Metro State University, Finance

Luke Johnathan Barbee*** University of Kansas, Architecture

Julia Abigail Barce* Baylor University, Business/Marketing

Kathryn Jane Beard** Southeastern University, Creative Writing/ Communications

Kylie Dee Beckering*** Dordt University, Nursing

Livia Kathleen Bengtson*** Grand Canyon University, Nursing

Molly Ann Benson*** Hope College, Nursing

Jacob Ronald Bettin* Grand Canyon University, Business & Entrepreneurship

Dalaney Grace Book*** Oral Roberts University, Global Ministry & the Marketplace

Bella Grace Boos*** Hope College, Chemical Engineering

Peter James Bosch** John Brown University, Mechanical Engineering

Matthew Marvin Brands University of Northwestern-St. Paul, Psychology & Theater

Luca Jen Bredenberg*** Lipscomb University, Biology

Jaclyn Elizabeth Brouwer*** Samford University, Nursing

Zion Timothy Buck** Dordt University, Psychology

Bella Margaret Carroll University of St. Thomas, Business Marketing

Kelly Kristine Carter* Grand Canyon University, Pre-Physical Therapy

Elizabeth Grace Coleman University of St. Thomas, Entrepreneurship

Katelyn Renee Cook* University of Victoria, Bio-mechanical Engineering

Joshua Andrew Daun* Dordt University, Business - Accounting

Elias Dean DeKam*** Dordt University, Pre-Med

Ada Grace Dekkers*** Dordt University, Agribusiness

Ashlyn Caylie Denton*** Crown College, Marketing/Business Administration

Claire Elizabeth Duncan*** Boston College, Nursing

Donnie Duong Grand Canyon University, Entrepreneurship/Finance

Jameson Misganaw Eggum

Dakota County Technical College, BioMedical Equipment Technology

Carter Leaf Engholm** Dordt University, Mechanical Engineering

Joshua David Engler*** U.S. Naval Academy, Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering

Maria Hope Fahrenkamp Dakota County Technical College, Nursing

Kaden Gerald Feltmann Gap Year

Aidan Marc Foss* Gap Year - Photography/Videography

Nora Claire Ganske*** Iowa State University, Biology, Certificate of Forensic Science

Lily Joy Gauger*** Wheaton College, Business Economics

Allison Sue Vera Gedrose University of Wisconsin-Stout, Early Childhood Education

Nicholas Douglas Goldsmith Utah State University, Forest Ecology & Management

Hallie Anna Greer

University of Mississippi, Business Management

Jared Roy Greiner** Gap Year - Junior Hockey

Stanley Sergei Gura Gap Year

Ava Ann Hagen* Westmont College, Nursing

Greer Anne Hardacre College of St. Benedict, Exercise Health & Science

Hailey Christine Hartwell*** Pepperdine University, Pre-Law

Lydia Grace Hay Samford University, Finance

Gerrit Paul Hedman** Dordt University, Marketing & Accounting

Benjamin David Helm** Regent University, Science of Cybersecurity

Carter Christopher Hjelmberg** Dordt University, Nursing

Kendall Kay Hoag* Palm Beach Atlantic University, Business Marketing

Eli Larry Hoffman Kansas University, Undecided

Sydney Lee Holtz* University of Minnesota, Elementary Education

Madeline Elizabeth Hotchkiss* Grand Canyon University, Business Marketing

Iris Boyd Hulsing** Buena Vista University, Animation/ Entrepreneurship

Logan Elizabeth Humphreys*** University of Florida, Applied Physiology & Kinesiology, Pre-Med

Ava Josephine Indovina* Hope College, Early Childhood Education

Elizabeth Alona Jacques University of Minnesota

Graceanne Navina Jones* Samford University, Business Marketing

Grant Rudy Kaisersatt* St. John’s University, Neuroscience & Strategic Communications

Jannes Williams Kamp Gap Year - Junior Hockey

Maren Joy Keskey University of Minnesota, Kinesiology

Jaaron William Konkel*** Bethel University, Biokinetics

Savannah Grace Larson*** Calvin University, Elementary Education

Clara Yue Lauerman** Abilene Christian University, Undecided

Carissa Pui-Tin Lee*** Gap Year, then University of Minnesota

Noah Christopher Lodermeier*** Baylor University, Mechanical Engineering

Amanda Faith Long*** Bethel University, Biology

Kaelen Andrew Lundquist* Lipscomb University, Pre-Med

Max Jacob McDermott Grand Canyon University, Psychology

Ava Hope McIntosh*** Carlson School of Management, University of Minnesota, Marketing

Joellen Salinda Merkle*

Iowa State University, Horticulture/ Greenhouse Plant Production

Reese Erin Merritt*** Torchbearers International, Bodenseehof, Germany

Chase Anthony Michielson Grand Canyon University, Business & Entrepreneurship

Taylor Ann Miedema*** University of St. Thomas, Nursing

Gordon Matthew Molin* Lipscomb University, Commercial Music: Performance

Audrey Elisabeth Monsen* Liberty University, Nursing

Lillian Mei Moore*** Pepperdine University, Psychology & Neuroscience

Alexander Jorgenson Newell* Westmont College, Business

Anna Margaret Nykanen*** Bucknell University, International Relations, Pre-Law

Yaretshi Ortiz Bethel University, Pre-Law

Erika Meagan Park*** Concordia College-Moorhead, Biology/ Visual Arts

Gannon Isaac Paschke*** Montana State University, Science

Finnegan Myron Pawlyszyn Grand Canyon University, Business Marketing & Advertising

Nolan Bernard Pexa YWAM New Zealand

Savannah LaValle Pottebaum Belmont University, Business

Ella Marie Ringer** Hope College, Exercise Science

Riley Faith Rodriguez*** Grand Canyon University, Nursing

Karl Anthony Roepke*** Indiana University, Healthcare Management & Policy

Keely Shay Sandness* Grand Canyon University, Business Marketing & Biology

Erin Grace Savitt** University of Northwestern-St. Paul, Business Administration

Madeline Marie Schmidt*** MidAmerica Nazarene University, Nursing

Natalie Marie Schmieg** Gustavus Adolphus College, English & Secondary Education

Liliana Grace Seyller*** University of Northwestern-St. Paul, Nursing

Adam John Skaret** Lake Superior College, Business Marketing

Lauren Ashley Spelbring

Normandale Community College, BiologyForensic Science

Benjamin Maxwell Strain Grand Canyon University, Business & Entrepreneurship

Emma Elizabeth Swayne*** Bethel University, Nursing

Kyae Sin Thant

Grand Canyon University, Entrepreneurship & Business

Samuel David Thorson

University of Northwestern-St. Paul, Information Technology

Bryce Daniel Torgerson* Grand Canyon University, Undecided

Kayla Rose Van Dyken*** University of Wisconsin–Madison, Marketing

Evan Cale Vick* University of Minnesota, Marketing or Entrepreneurship

Braden Matthew Vis*** Dordt University, Mechanical Engineering

Avery Noel Wagaman*** Iowa State University, Undecided

Lucy Rose Waymire*** University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, Psychology

Maxwell William Weckman* South Dakota School of Mines & Technology, Metallurgical Engineering

Kaitlyn Noelle Wercinski*** Dordt University, Biology

Wyatt Joseph Wercinski*** Dartmouth College, Statistics

Maxwell Thomas Wiegert* Dakota Technical College, Electrician

Autumn Grace Wiens*** Bethel University, Political Science/ Business, Pre-Law

Luke Delano Woese

Dunwoody School of Technology, Welding & Metal Fabrication

Abigail Faith Wolff** Samford University, Business Marketing

Mason James Wood*

Olivet Nazarene University, Marketing/ Business Management

Owen David Zick Grand Canyon University, Business & Entrepreneurship

John Carl Zylstra** Gordon College, Finance & History

GIVING

Athletic Expansion Grand Opening

On Saturday, January 6, 2024, alumni, current families, neighbors, and city officials joined us for the Grand Opening of the SWCHS Athletic Complex.

The 53,000-square-foot athletic expansion and the refreshed main gym have served our community well.

75% of our students are involved in at least one sport. This expansion frees up the needed space in our existing building for more classrooms, teacher offices, and storage.

We hosted alumni volleyball and basketball games on campus and welcomed over 80 alumni.

We are grateful for the many families who have continued to invest in the next generation. Whether you have given financially or given your time, we appreciate the foundation you are laying for many students to come.

We hope this facility continues to serve our greater community and provide a welcoming space for students to find a place to belong.

Thank you to our 2023-24 donors!

Thank you to our donors who have contributed to the following programs: corporate sponsorships, student scholarships, athletic complex, fine arts boosters, athletic boosters, robotics, Christmas offering, business instruction, the annual fund, and the endowment fund. These contributions don't include our senior mission trip donations, registration for events, or anonymous donors.

1st St. NW Technical Staffing

494 Restaurants

98.5 KTIS

Tim & Deborah Abbring

Paul & Kristen Abdo

Advanced Imaging Solutions

David & Amy Alpaugh

Paul & Cheryl Anderson

Todd & Krista Anderson

Greg & Melinda Andrews

Aqua-Vu

Benjamin & Jamie Armitage

Authentic Brand

Mitch & Kristen Avery

Mark & Carrie Bachman

Clark & Tina Bain

Jeremy & Bria Banken

Craig & Jody Barbee

Mrs. William Barney

Ina Barton

Garth & Pat Beatty

Dan & Laura Beckering

Darin & Tricia Beckering

Jerry & Linda Beckering

Bell Bank

Daniel & Dawn Bendell

Frank & Reenie Berthold

Bethel University

John & Jennifer Bettin

Martin & Jan Beukhof

Mark & Jodi Bjerke

Sarah Black

Bluff High Kennels

Nate & Amber Boen

Jack Boike

Bonfe

Patrick & Tiffany Boria

Ed & Margaret Bosch

Steven & Tara Bosch

Chuck & Cindy Bourn

David & Laura Boyd Beise

Sonja Brastad

Braun Massage

Breakaway Academy

Brian & Laura Bredenberg

Jim & Wendi Breuer

Tim & Christina Bristol

Jack & Michelle Brouwer

Michael & Marie Brown

Jeff & Suzy Brunsberg

Robert & Carol Bryce

Adam & Carla Burke

Dan and Debbie Burke

Nicholas Burke

Robbie & Ivy Burkhart

Brian & Megan Cagley

Sean & Merritt Callahan

Brian & Taria Cameron

Jay & Kari Carroll

Joe & Stacy Carto

Carver Scott Humane Society

Chapel Hill Academy

Chick fil-A Chanhassen

Chick fil-A Eden Prairie

CHS

Coldwell Banker - Kent Stoa

Coldwell Banker - The Boen Team

Austin & Melissa Coleman

Patrick & Emily Coleman

Convey of Hope

James & Tricia Corder

Debra Cornell

John & Alisa Craig

Crown College

Culvers - Bloomington

Greg & Joan Dattilo

Bob & Jennifer Daub

John & Shannon Davis III

Lloyd & Marilyn De Boer

Evelyn Deboer

Chad Krietlow & Sarah Dejewski

Matthew & Rebecca Dekkers

Andrew & Linda Denton

Detello's Pizza and Pasta

Brian & Kimberly DeVries

Todd & Vicki Dillon

Discover Yourself

Brent & Shannon Dodds

Jim & Wanda Dotseth

Chris & Lorelle Dovolis

Jason & Sarah Dublo

Ben & Erin Duininck

Duininck Companies

Larry & Abby DuMoulin

Don & Michele Duncan

Andrew & Alyson Duneman

Austin & Megan Dyck

Bryan & Sarah Dye

Andrew & Emily Dzurik

Steve & Kirstin Dzurik

Edgetek Hockey

Matthew Eidem

Michael & Sandra Eidem

Joel & Kristen Eisma

David & Jessilyn Elliott

Duane & Trish Engler

Andrew Erhart

Christopher & Corinne Erhart

Tim & Dawne Erhart

Glen & Jeanette Ertel

Gary & Debra Etheridge

Falcon International

Carolyn Fasching

Anthony & Laura Ferrara

James & Kristina Ferrin

Eric & Shannon Fetzer

Jack & Robin Fiedler

John & Jennifer Fletcher

Mitchell Forss

Terrence & Christa Foss

Haley Freeman

Brad & Laura Fritz

Micah & Rebekah Garneau

Tom & Bonnie Gasper

Chad & Gretchen Gauger

James & Susan Gedrose

Keith & Heather Gedrose

Jim & Kathy Gelder

Greg & Lynda Gentz

Peter & Jennifer Gordon

Great Clips - Cedar Point Commons

Curt & Heidi Greer

Todd & Lesley Greiner

Kurt & Rachel Gueldner

Chet & Lisa Gunhus

Josef Halverson

Zeb Haney

John & Melanie Hardacker

Andrew & Jenny Hardacre

Phil Hardacre

Cullen & Stacy Harder

Brandon & Catherine Harmon

Mike & Corinna Harris

Brian & Tamara Harstad

Richard & Christine Harwood

John & Linda Haugen

James & Elise Hay

Andrew & Karen Heddle

Randall & Eva Hedman

Heiberg Athletics

Perry & Gina Heles

Michelle Helm

Richard & Amy Hendel

Hendel Homes

Andrea Heule

Highand Bank

Hoag Family Tree

Nicholas & Shannon Hoekman

Aron Hoffman

David & Judy Hoiriis

Scott & Carrie Holthusen

Heath & Haley Holtz

Home Solutions

Honour Capital

Mark & Angela Host

Matt & Amy Hotchkiss

Hotel Excelsior

Michael & Tara Hough

David & Carol Hubert

Carol Huesman

John & Aimee Hulsing

Jerry & Lori Hulstein

Wade & Nicola Humphreys

Sheldon Huston

Jason Ianfolla

Anthony & Cara Indovina

Infinite Health Collaborative

Islands and Dreams Travel Company

Reid & Joan Jaeger

Jonathan Jenson

Johnathon Painter Concrete

Allan & Erna Johnson

Cooper & Jamie Johnson

Nick & Abbie Johnson

Richard & Emily Johnson

Ron & Shani Johnson

Ross & Laura Johnson

Robert & Navina Jones

K.A.H.R Foundation

Brian & Monica Kamm

Kaufman Roofing

Greg & Sonya Kaupp

William & Betty Kimble

Connor Klein

Matt & Niki Klein

Jason & Danette Kleinprintz

Thomas & Julie Kloempken

Peter & Lauren Knutson

Samuel & Paola Kobielush

Kristin Koelewyn

Konan Homes

Brenna Krommendyk

Fred Krommendyk

Patrick & Julie Krommendyk

Kruckman Family Dentistry

Greg & Carla Kummer

Heather Kurvers

Kyle Hunt & Partners

Lake Minnetonka Orthodontics

Tim & Heidi Larkin

Carla Lawrenz

Tony & Jenna Lein

Let Freedom Ride Car Show

Kelly & Sue Liesmaki

Dave Lindberg

Lindsay Group

Chris & Alice Lodermeier

Yu & Chloe Lu

Terry & Joy Lubben

Tim & Carrie Lundgren

Todd & Kristen Maas

Andrew & Amy Madson

Magnolia Landscape & Design

Robert & Julie Mapstone

John & Ann Marie Marshall

Troy & Melissa Mathwig

Michael & Heide McDermott

Jim & Julie McEliece

Felicia McKenzie

Helen Meade

Mike & Chick Meek

Harold & Glenda Mellema

Scott & Heather Mellema

Jonathan & Janet Merkle

Jerome & Sandra Meyer

Ernest & Sally Micek Foundation

Scott & Liz Micek

Hailey Miedema

Michael & Allison Miedema

MN Hockey TV

Danny & Alba Mogollon

Kyle & Melissa Molin

Scott & Brenda Moore

Morgan Family Dental

Aaron & Natalie Morland

Sandy Mosley

Moss & Barnett Law Firm

Vaughn & Bridgette Mulcrone

My Burger

Rick & Sara Narvaez

Robert & Jane Neave

Newport Clippers

Brian & MaryKaye Nicholson

Linda Norderhaug

North Star Tavern

Jonathan & Deborath Nykanen

Vivian Ocenasek

Susan Olsen

Alllan & Vicki Olson

Nick & Kristina Olson

Rick & Kate Olson

Onelife Corrective Chiropractic

OSR Physical Therapy

Ovation Orthodontics

Matt & Tricia Paschke

Michael & Sandy Pawlyszyn

Kelly Pederson

Perfect World Hockey Training

Brett & Elizabeth Perry

Gene & Susan Peterson

Tom & Annebet Pettit

Joe & Darcy Piche'

Cody Pollock

Steve & Nikki Pothast

Todd & Sheri Pottebaum

Prairie Spring Offices

Principal Financial

Prins Bank

Priority Medical Billing

Purity Cleaning

David & Jenna Rains

Benjamin & Lina Ramli

Paul Ranheim

Chris & Nicole Rasmussen

RBC Wealth Management - Piche' Group

Charles & Mindi Rector

Paul & Brook Riemer

John & Michelle Ringer

TJ Ringer

Walter & Jane Ringer

Henry Ritsema

RJM Construction

Bob & Lois Robertson

Greg & Leslie Robertson

Josh Robertson

Derek & Carrie Robillard

Anthony & Gretchen Roepke

Ed & Eileen Rosenwinkel

Jeffrey & Katie Rotz

Diane Rovang

Grant Rovang

Richard Rovang

Michelle Rovang Burke

Randy & Shelley Saby

Saby Farms

Craig & Dawn Sandness

Adam & Kristen Sandvig

Bryan & Jennifer Sandvig

John & Jessica Santjer

Scott & Jeanne Savitt

Harvey & Darlene Sawyer

Charlene Saxe

Scheels

Tom & Gina Schmidt

Grace Schmidt

Craig & Lisa Schmidtke

Dwight & Rhonda Schneibel

Nick Schneibel

Luke Schwen

John & Tina Scribante

Sea Change

Sea Foam Sales Company

Senior Care Communities

Jonathan & Gabi Shirley

Sid and Carol Verdoorn Foundation

Signature Wealth

John & Amanda Skaret

Ryan & Rachel Skoog

Eric & Sharla Stafford

Stafford Family Realtors

David & Stacey Stelter

Jeff & Alicia Stone

Nate & Jenni Streed

Mark & Kathy Strelnieks

Pamela Strommen

Summit Orthopedics

Superior Lending - Leslie Blackowiak

Scott & Christine Swanson

Scott & Paige Swayne

Mike & Trisha Sweet

Michael Szymanski

Gerald & Susan Tarman

Bryant & Holly Tchida

Steve & Denise Tebbs

David & Julie Terpstra

Joe Tewinkel

The Fortis Academy

The Mustard Seed

The Squeaky Cow

Mark & Kristen Thistle

David & Roxanne Thorson

Thrivent Financial

Dale & Phyllis Timm

TK Marine Co

Thomas & Melissa Tollefson

Tooth By The Lake

Tradition Capital Bank

Ryan & Jessica Trebil

Craig & Chrystal Trettin

David & Mary Beth Tucker

Scott & Jennifer Tudor

Twin Cities Orthopedics

Twin City Filter Service

United Health Group

University of Northwestern - St. Paul

Nathan & Andrea Ursel

US Bank

Valeo Health & Wellness Center

Jeremy & Carrie Van Beusekom

Peter & Deirdre Van Nest

Myron & Gladys Vander Pol

Daniel & Stephany Vassar

Encouraging A Spirit of Generosity

We are grateful for each and every gift for the many programs we offer. Tuition doesn't cover the costs of all our programs, tuition assistance needs, and our building capital campaigns. The generosity of our community makes an impact on all of our students and faculty. Thank you for your heart of generosity.

WAYS TO GIVE

"Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us, to Him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever!"

Ephesians 3:20-21

Veil & Wild Orthodontics

David & Sonja Venberg

Jeff & Julie Verdoorn

Jim & Stephanie Verdoorn

Craig & Christine Veurink

Joey Veurink

Paul & Kristen Vietzen

Jeff & Lauri Wagaman

Mark & Karen Wagner

Richard & Laura Wall

Travis & Alexandra Walmer

Mike & Kate Walters

Roger & Leanna Watchorn

Dean & Christa Waymire

John & Katherine Wechter

Tony & Courtney Wells

Wells Fargo

Darren & Elise Wercinski

David & Nicole White

Michael & Jennifer Widdifield

Christopher & Amy Wiens

Mark & Amy Wilhite

Cabot & Sarah Wohlrabe

Brycen & Katie Wojta

Matthew & Ann Wolff

James & Phuong Wood

Stephen & Rachel Wood

Kevin Wright

Roger & Jayann Young

Youngstedts

Eric & Stephanie Zimmerman

Jason & April Zimmerman

Nathaniel & Kari Zylstra

FINANCIALS

In the 2023-24 school year, we have been blessed by God's provision for Southwest Christian High School. High demand for Christian education has led to strong enrollment growth which presents both opportunities and challenges from a financial perspective.

In December 2023, we were able to open the new athletic facility. This new facility has enabled us to support enrollment growth and expand our program offerings. It has also presented increased revenuegenerating opportunities for the school through event hosting and outside rental agreements.

In the 2023-24 school year, we were also able to make continued progress on a four-year strategic plan to ensure we are a leader in the Christian education space in compensating our greatest asset, our exceptional teachers and staff. These important initiatives come at a financial cost, and, when combined with high general cost inflation, necessitated a tuition increase in the upcoming school year.

Strong enrollment growth mitigates the need to raise tuition, but it does not eliminate it. To help offset the increased tuition, we anticipate providing close to 20% more in need-based financial aid in the upcoming school year. Need-based financial aid is made possible by our generous donors and their support of our scholarship fund.

We are hopeful to grow that fund in the new school year so Southwest Christian can be financially accessible to all.

Robbie Burkhart Chief Financial Officer

$770K was granted to families for need-based scholarships in 2023-2024

$14.3K was tuition for the 2023-24 school year 1 in 5 students receive financial aid

ALUMNI

Alumni Advisory Board

In October 2023, the first Alumni Advisory Board was formed. Seven alumni were selected to represent their classes:

William Addler (‘21), Carly Watchorn (‘18), Allison (Reimer) Cline (‘12), Aaron Rask (‘07), Chris Hill (‘00), Daniel Horner (‘10), and Bryan Sandvig (‘06).

SWCHS Staff advisors include Head of School Dan Beckering, Director of Strategic Marketing Emily Dzurik, and Director of Development Leslie Robertson.

The group met quarterly to discuss the alumni survey, organize the alumni database, collect alumni stories for the annual report, and provide feedback on fundraising/events.

We are grateful for their volunteer involvement and hope to see this advisory board grow with more distinguished alumni of Southwest Christian High School.

1,399

TOTAL GRADUATES SINCE 1999

EDEN PRAIRIE, MINNETONKA, & WAREHOUSE CAMPUSES

473

926

BAVARIA CAMPUS

55% OF ALUMNI EMAILS SOUTHWEST CHRISTIAN HAS COLLECTED 23% GROWTH OF DATA IN 2023-24 THIS WAS A We continue to strive to connect with alumni to celebrate their professional and personal accomplishments for the glory of God!

Where Are They Now?

Follow our alumni around the world as they pursue God's calling in their lives!

ELISE VADNAIS ‘09

Strategic Account Manager

CommScope, Belgium

Elise has spent over seven years in Belgium working for a US manufacturing company, building on the career she started twelve years ago at their Shakopee office. Her time in Europe has allowed her to indulge her love for travel, hiking, and local cuisine, all while forming lifelong friendships within Brussels' international community, both inside and outside her vibrant local church.

HUNTER BROWN ‘18

Missionary

YFCI, Japan

After graduating from high school, Hunter spent a gap year attending a missionary training program in Australia, Papua New Guinea, and Indonesia. He then attended University of Northwestern – St. Paul and served on an internship in a Ugandan village where he spent his time with South Sudanese and Acholi children. Hunter has felt a call to the nation of Japan. He is eager to see the new doors Jesus will open in the lives of Japanese youth.

DENNY BURDA ‘03

Strategic Engagement Manager

Atlassian, Netherlands

Denny spent 13 years in Youth Ministry as a youth worker, speaker and adjunct professor. Roughly 10 years ago, he switched over into Software as a Service (Saas) and has worked for some of the largest tech companies on the planet. Currently he works as a Strategic Engagement Manager for Atlassian and as CCO of his own consulting firm. He current lives in The Netherlands with his wife of 16 years Merina and their two cats Ash and Keeley.

CHRIS DIRKS ‘07

Emergency Care Physician

CUAP Vallès Oriental, Spain

After serving as a missionary with Youth With a Mission from 2011 to 2016 Chris entered medical school in Kansas City in 2017, later moving to Barcelona, Spain, where he now lives with his wife Carla. Chris is passionate about medical missions and about seeing the Catalan people awakened to the love of Jesus and the power of the Gospel!

RACHEL GASPER '12

ESL Teacher ArtComposite, South Korea

Rachel has spent the last three years working as an ESL (English as a Second Language) teacher for a private kindergarten in Seoul, South Korea, educating students between the ages of five and nine. She greatly enjoys her work and the unique and rewarding experiences she has had while teaching and living abroad.

TAYLOR AINSLIE ‘16

Adapted Physical Education Teacher

Alpine School District

I finished up my masters in 2022 and accepted a job offer in Utah with Alpine School District working as a full-time adapted physical education teacher. I work across the largest school district in the state and travel between six different schools teaching physical education to students of all ages with disabilities. I love my job!

MICHAEL EIDEM ‘08

Project Leader

Boston Consulting Group

After working as a structural engineer for five years, I pursued an MBA to transition into management consulting. At BCG, I lead projects for large corporate clients, assisting their executive teams with core strategy questions, including approach to capital allocation, M&A decisions, and enterprise pricing. My primary clients are in satellite manufacturing and operations, commercial real estate, and private equity. My wife and I moved to San Diego two years ago (after stints in Boise, Chicago, San Francisco, and New York) and love spending our weekends at the local dog beach.

CHLOE PAYNE ‘12

Senior Art Director

Target

Eight years ago, I began my creative journey as a design intern at Walt Disney World, immersing myself in storytelling.

Transitioning to a role at a Minneapolisbased agency, I honed in on campaign and experiential retail skills, collaborating with top brands like Adidas, Reebok, and Under Armour. Now a senior art director at Target, I seamlessly blend creativity with experiential retail design, spearheading innovative marketing initiatives.

LUKE JOHANSON '14

Commercial Real Estate Agent

ORION Investment Real Estate

I joined ORION Investment Real Estate in February 2022 after leaving my sales position at Lectric eBikes. I spend my time assisting individual investors, family offices, private equity firms, and REITS with their apartment portfolios. Whether it's finding new investments to acquire, facilitating the sale of an asset, or simply providing help through an advisory role, I'm striving to be a market leader in the Arizona commercial real estate space.

JESSI (COLUND) RENNEKAMP ‘05

Founder Astrior Communications

After 15 years leading corporate communications at biotech companies, I founded Astrior Communications in April 2023, a communications and social impact consulting business. I develop advocacy campaigns for rare disease communities trying to reach policymakers and regulators and collaborate with companies on corporate responsibility reports and environmental, social, and governance (ESG) content creation. I also rebranded companies with a unique business model solely dedicated to achieving its founders’ intent of bringing “hope for life” to patients with cancer and other serious diseases.

PATRICK MENEFEE ‘07

Owner Patrick Menefee Coaching

Following my years as an infantry officer in the Army, I transitioned into the corporate banking and consulting world. After saying goodbye to corporate America in the fall of 2020, I bought and sold all sorts of rental properties and flips, bought and sold a landscaping company, and eventually realized my place was where I’d partially been all along - helping other people execute at the level they’re capable of. I help high achievers create a more intentional, fulfilling, and successful life by helping them unlock access to the person they know they are capable of becoming.

MEAGAN (FLAHERTY) VESTA '04

Homeschool Mom/Tutor and Homesteader Vesta Family Farms

My husband, Matt, and I live on a 2.5-acre homestead in the small town of Hilliard in Northeast Florida. We grow produce through regenerative agriculture and sell it at local farmers' markets. I also homeschool our two boys, write for the local parenting blog, Jacksonville Mom, and tutor in our homeschool co-op, Classical Conversations.

Suzanne Jacob ‘09

Faculty Pediatric Physician, Waco Family Medicine

Who: SWCHS alumna

While at SWCHS: Suzie was involved in art, theater, choir, and basketball.

Education: Suzie graduated from Baylor University Honors College in 2013 with a major in biology and a minor in sociology. She attended Loma Linda University Medical School, graduating with her MD in 2017, and completed her residency in pediatrics at Loma Linda University Children's Hospital in 2020.

Where she is now: Suzie is a faculty pediatric physician at Waco Family Medicine Residency Program in Waco, TX. As the pediatric teaching lead, she supervises and mentors resident physicians in clinic and hospital settings. This involves guiding them through clinical care, giving lectures, and evaluating residents' performance. She also participates in local hospital committees to improve patient care and refine pediatric training experiences and is the Pediatric Lead for the Primary Care Training and Enhancement - Residency Training in Mental and Behavioral Health (PCTE-RTMB) grant, which serves to train residents in trauma-informed mental and behavioral health. When not working with residents, Suzie sees pediatric patients at a federally qualified health center, with a mission of caring for under-served and medically vulnerable populations such as foster children and victims of trafficking.

Personal Life: She lives in Waco, TX, and attends Antioch Community Church. In her free time, she likes to play pickleball, play piano, and bake.

'08 Dominican Republic Trip SWCHS Science Class

Jack '18 & Rachel (Gassen '18) Velasco

July 22, 2023

Alec & Merissa (Haberer '11) Willey October 7, 2023

Henrik John Kling Johan & Courtney (Sheets '13) June 23, 2024

Rylee James Johnson Cooper ‘10 & Jamie November 1, 2023

Jordan & Anna (Skaret '18) Fink October 20, 2023

Ester Mae Shirley Jonathan ‘16 & Gabi

October 3, 2023

Oaklyn Nelson Daniel & Kelly (Lemus '14) November 25, 2023

Gabriel Gunnar Jackson Noah ‘10 & Ali

August 23, 2023

Jake James II Beer Jake & Nikki (Graves '18) January 10, 2024

Josiah Peter William Kiedrowski Brayton '08 & Katie March 19, 2024

Adrian & Hannah (Mohs '09) Mostert March 9, 2024

Harper Whitney Nelson Nate & Sarah (Baribault '17) May 29, 2024

Ethan & Britta (Carlson '19) Mantich June 2, 2024

Dylan '20 & Callie (Ertel '20) DuMoulin June 7, 2024

Matthew & Shelby (Henke '17) Weideman April 26, 2024

Logan Thomas Harris Tony '17 & Megan (O'Brien '17) June 6, 2024

Connor '17 & Abby DuMoulin October 8, 2023

1981 BAVARIA RD, CHASKA, MN 55318