Waldorf Adds Track and Field Pg. 9 Latest Alumni News Pg. 30
Volume 110, Number 1, Spring 2014
New Mascot Named
Students vote to name the new mascot! Pg. 14
Denny Jerome Court
Long-time coach has court named in his honor! Pg. 8
72 years of service
Ruth Racek Lee ’45 is recognized! Pg. 22
Volume 110, Number 1 Spring 2014 The Waldorf Magazine, a combined effort of the Waldorf Lutheran College Foundation and Waldorf College, is published for alumni and friends of Waldorf College. Founded in 1903, Waldorf College is a private, four-year liberal arts institution. Please help us keep track of you by notifying the Foundation if you get married, move or change your e-mail address. Contact Janet Berhow at berhowj@waldorf.edu or 641.585.8148. Please notify the Waldorf admissions office if you would like to refer a prospective student by calling 1.800.292.1903
Waldorf College 106 South 6th Street Forest City, Iowa 50436 641.585.2450 or 1.800.292.1903 Cover: Waldorf’s new mascot, Warrick the Warrior, greets a Homecoming Parade attendee!
Greetings!
January snow on campus.
I doubt it comes as a surprise that the promise and anticipation of spring has kept most of us Midwesterners going over the past few brutally cold and snowy months. Spring signifies all things new, fresh and green and we couldn’t be more ready for it! Keeping in the spirit of this feel-good season, Waldorf has a few new things taking root of its own. Work will begin on the installation of a new track around Bolstorff Field this summer and recruiting efforts are already underway to form our first track and field team! Teams will compete on the track a year from now in 2015. Read more on page 9. Waldorf College Online is also branching out by adding a new bachelor’s program in Occupational Safety. More on page 6. In the pages ahead, learn how fitness entrepreneur Jeremy Scott ’08 helps people change their lives through exercise, good nutrition, hard work and determination. He suggests now is the time to get in shape, become the best version of yourself, and allow your self-confidence to bloom just in time for summer. As always, this issue also includes news on campus life, faculty, staff, and alumni. We encourage you to send us your updates for the fall issue and keep more regularly up-to-date on class news by visiting your class blog on the Foundation website http://www.waldorffoundation.org/blog/. You’ll also want to hear what Foundation Chair Ray Beebe learned during his recent, candid, round-table discussion with current students found on page 17. In this issue we continue to celebrate Waldorf’s super-centennial by taking a brief look back at the history of the College. Although we respectfully acknowledge and pay tribute to our past, we also anticipate and prepare for the future. As with the arrival of spring, we look forward to new growth and budding opportunities that abound around every corner. Happy spring! Sincerely,
Contributors Janet Berhow Jackie Kieffer Matt Oliver Design & Layout Matthew Knutson ’11 Writers Emily Angstman Barbara Barrows Cassie Christianson Rita Gilbertson ’79 Nancy Olson ’75
Rita Gilbertson, CFRE
Nancy Olson, CFRE
Director of Alumni Relations Director of Institutional Relations Waldorf College/ Waldorf College/ Waldorf Lutheran College Foundation Waldorf Lutheran College Foundation
JANET BERHOW
Database & Gift Processing Manager Waldorf College/ Waldorf Lutheran College Foundation
PG 4
a Message from the President
PG 4 serving on Founder’s Day PG 5 Alpha Chi inducts students PG 5 Sophomore honors awarded PG 6 students establish north iowa film fest
CAMPUS
PG 6 Online programs grow Pg 7
Peter Bolstorff Speaks on Service
pg 7
Waldorf freezes tuition
pg 8 basketball court named after jerome pg 8
new athletic director hired
PG 9 football joins new conference Pg 9 Adding track and field Pg 10 athletic recaps Pg 12 faculty/staff News Pg 13 staff profile: Karla Schaefer PG 14 new mascot pg 14 hero behind the hero scholarship awarded pg 15 Fine Arts Update
FOUNDATION
pg 16 freshman develops after-school program PG 17 letter from the foundation chair pg 18 campus ministry update pg 19 Foundation Priorities PG 19 Association Meeting recap pg 19 foundation provides book to students pg 20 putTING mind and muscle to good use PG 21 events held across the country for alumni
ALUMNI
PG 22 Alumna Honored for 72 Years of Service pG 24 the first 110 years of Waldorf College pg 25 homecoming 2013 Recap Pg 26 distinguished alumni awarded at homecoming pg 27 Athletic Hall of Fame Inducts four members pg 29 growing up at Waldorf pg 30 Alumni news PG 35 Venzke Memorial bench
HOMECOMING 2014 Please make plans now to attend homecoming 2014, October 31-November 2! All alumni and friends are welcome! Those celebrating a class reunion this fall include the Class of 1949, 1954, 1959, 1964, 1969, 1974, 1979, 1984, 1989, 1994, 1999, 2004 and 2009. Please connect with your classmates however you can (Facebook, email or phone) and encourage them to meet you on campus. Watch for more homecoming information in the upcoming monthly e-newsletters and official homecoming brochure that will be mailed this summer. If you would like to be part of the homecoming art and craft fair, please contact the alumni office at alumni@ waldorf.edu or (641) 585-8140 to secure your space. We were full to capacity last year with a variety of wonderful vendors! We look forward to seeing you on campus this fall!
Campus News
A Message from President Robert Alsop Connections. It constantly amazes me how many stories I hear about unexpected connections to Waldorf College. For example, when Rita Gilbertson and Nancy Olson were recently out for dinner in Phoenix, Ariz. they came across an interesting Waldorf connection. Sitting outside at a restaurant, the two commented to their server that they really shouldn’t complain about it cooling off as the sun went down since they just flew in from Iowa that morning where the temperature was 20 below zero. The server noted that she had recently moved from Iowa and while she grew up in Des Moines, she most recently lived, as you already guessed, in Forest City where she attended Waldorf College. As you read through this issue of the Waldorf Magazine, you will notice several different kinds of connections being built, reimagined and nurtured due in no small part to Waldorf College. • In Alpha Chi, students connect with one another through academic excellence. Alpha Chi not only recognizes the academic achievement of Waldorf students, but also connects them to over 400,000 other members from 399 chapters in living the organization’s motto of “making scholarship effective for good.” • Waldorf’s campus ministry mission trip allows students to connect with their faith through service. The mission trip is a transformational event in the lives of these students. • Foundation Chair Ray Beebe has once again intentionally connected with current Waldorf students. By meeting and
listening to their Waldorf stories, Mr. Beebe is inspired as you will be, too. • You will read about how a current freshman has found a way to put her gifts and talents in service by connecting with elementary students in the community. By taking the initiative to establish a tutoring center in the YMCA, Casey Loken is impacting more than just the academic success of these young students. • While you will not read their story here, you will find a picture of Tim Winch and Deb Naefke McMullen. I met the couple at an Alumni event in January. The couple, who both graduated in 1971, reconnected in recent years and will marry in 2014. • And how two former roommates accidentally reconnected and now sing next to each other again after 64 years. We cherish your connection with Waldorf. Please stay abreast of what is happening at Waldorf College by reading through this magazine, the alumni newsletter, and our Facebook page (if you haven’t “liked” it yet, please do so today!). We hope you cherish your connections, but connections can get lost, fuzzy, and can even drop. Let us know what is happening in your life by sending an email to the alumni office, coming to campus at homecoming or whenever is convenient to you, attending an alumni event, and staying connected to your alma mater. Sincerely,
President Robert Alsop, Ph.D.
Founder’s Day
W
Taking serving to heart, Waldorf College celebrated its 110th anniversary with service projects during the week of Founder’s Day. Students, both residential and online, as well as alumni, community members, faculty, and staff, came together to honor Waldorf’s many years by participating in numerous service projects across the country. Featured in photos are just a few of the ways the Waldorf community celebrated.
ald
orf Colle
ge
Founder’s Day
110 Years: October 11
Left: Waldorf’s Criminal Justice Club cleaned up the basement of the Forest Theatre.
Right: Waldorf’s online staff located in Alabama spent time cleaning up the beach and feeding dinner to the homeless. Below: Students formed an assembly line in the Atrium to pack backpacks for local homeless people. Above: Honors College students read to the children at the Hanson Family Life Center.
Left: Biology Club students clean up trash at Pilot Knob State Park.
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Campus News
Back L to R: Dr. Suzanne Falck-Yi, Dr. Scott Searcy, Professor of the Year Dawn Johnson, Kelli Lair, Marisa Donnelly, Reid Gilbertson, and Amber Bergland. Front L to R: Molly Maschka, Courtney Palmer, Kaylee Vitale, Lisa Moss, Tara Kingland, and Desiree Diaz.
Thirteen students inducted into national honor society Waldorf College’s Iota Chapter of the Alpha Chi Honor Society inducted 13 new members during a ceremony on Sunday, Oct. 20. “It is an honor for our students to be selected for membership since it includes only those who are among the top ten percent of the junior and senior classes,” said Dr. Suzanne Falck-Yi, faculty advisor and professor of English. “Membership includes such benefits as the opportunity to attend a national conference, as well as apply for scholarships that can be used for a student’s senior year or graduate school.” Founded in 1922, Alpha Chi promotes academic excellence and exemplary character among college students and honors those who achieve such distinction. The Waldorf College chapter was inaugurated in 2002 to recognize students with high academic achievement and encourage using those gifts in service to others. “We’re very proud of these students,” said Dr. Scott Searcy, vice president of academic affairs and dean of the college. “They’ve demonstrated their commitment to academic achievement, and we’re pleased to honor them with membership into the honor society.”
The list of inductees includes: Amber Bergland of Albert Lea, Minn. Desiree Diaz of Forest City, Iowa Marisa Donnelly of Naperville, Ill. Reid Gilbertson of Forest City, Iowa Tara Kingland of Lake Mills, Iowa Kelli Lair of Lake Mills, Iowa Gabrielle Lord-Klein of Stevens Point, Wis. Molly Maschka of Austin, Minn. Lisa Moss of Osage, Iowa Jordan Nelson of Neenah, Wis. Courtney Palmer of Rochester, Minn. Casey Smith of Decorah, Iowa Kaylee Vitale of Las Vegas, N.V.
Four students receive sophomore honors
L to R: Waldorf College’s 2013 Sophomore Honors recipients Cody Clark, Haley Rubin, Maggie Eden, and Abigail Buehler
Four students were recognized for their academic excellence at Waldorf College’s opening convocation ceremony on Friday, August 23. Abigail Buehler of Dodge Center, Minn.; Cody Clark of Lexington, S.C.; Maggie Eden of Britt, Iowa; and Haley Rubin of Brandon, S.D., were awarded Sophomore Honors at the annual event for first-year students. Each year, the top four students of the incoming sophomore class are recognized at the ceremony. “As we welcome new students to Waldorf, it is important that we hold up models for them to emulate,” said President Dr. Robert Alsop. “This year’s award winners are certainly worthy of their admiration.” The sophomores received certificates commemorating their achievement. Recognizing successful second-year students at the opening convocation ceremony is a way of showing new students what they can achieve in their first year at Waldorf. “It is our hope that first-year students are inspired to compete for the award next year,” said Alsop.
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Campus News
Growing Online Programs
Photo by Cody Clark
ROLL OUT THE RED CARPET The first annual North Iowa Film Festival (NIFF) will make its debut at the newly reopened Forest Theatre on May 2, 2014. Four short films will premiere from Phillip Koolhoven ’14, Carlos Ruiz ’14, Claire Lawson ’14 and Kyle Acker ’13. The event begins with a red carpet event at 7 p.m. with the first film showing at 7:45 p.m. The films featured at this year’s festival will be Wanderlust, Shadows, It’s On Me and Simple Job. Each film is approximately 20-30 minutes in length with the exception of Shadows, which is estimated to last 10 minutes. All four films are currently in the pre-production stage. This is the first film festival to be held in Forest City, which will partner with the communications department of Waldorf College. In future years, the NIFF will be open primarily to student submissions from Waldorf College and other colleges as well as feature-length film submissions. The North Iowa Film Festival was founded in 2013 by Phillip Koolhoven and Carlos Ruiz. Currently, Koolhoven serves as president, handling the business and financial affairs. Ruiz is vice president, handling marketing and public relations of the festival. Mark Newcom and Betsy Yaros, Waldorf College professors, are board members. All four will be the creative executives that decide which films will be featured from submission in either the short film or feature film categories in the near future. Like the North Iowa Film Festival on Facebook at https://www.facebook. com/northiowafilmfestival
DIGITIZING YEARBOOKS Would you like to take a peek at Waldorf students from the 1920s? See photos and profiles of football team members from 1922? View a picture of the choir from 1928? Take a look at our newly digitized yearbooks on our library website at: http:// www.waldorf.edu/archives Stay tuned, additional yearbooks will be digitized and released throughout the year. Celebrate the history and heritage of our college with a stroll through our original yearbook collection!
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The Waldorf College Online Department has expanded tremendously in the last several months. Currently online students can choose between 23 degree programs with plans to add more in the future. “We launched our online programs in 2010 with very limited programs for the first few years,” said Director of Online Learning Laura Satre Friesenborg ’95. “The Higher Learning Commission (HLC) recommended we dip our feet in the water at first to make sure we had a good understanding of what we’re doing. We’re very proud of how far we’ve come.” The program’s newest degrees include both a bachelor of arts and bachelor of applied science in Occupational Safety. “This program is important for individuals leading safety efforts in manufacturing, construction, and a variety of other fields,” Friesenborg explained. “We already have students applying and registering for it now, which is very exciting. There are only a limited number of schools who offer this program.” Developing Waldorf’s new online programs is a process that involves many people on the residential campus, including Waldorf’s faculty senate. “For every new program, we’re looking at our mission and who we are,” Friesenborg said. “We want to make sure our growth keeps to the core of Waldorf College.” In addition to the many Bachelor’s degrees, Waldorf also offers its historic Associate in Arts degree and numerous certificate programs. “Our certificate program is really appealing for someone who already has a degree and wants to delve deeper into a certain subject or for people considering a career change,” Friesenborg said. “They’re also a good way to test the waters in online learning.” Alumni of Waldorf College with an associate in arts degree can easily begin working toward a bachelor’s degree with at least 60 credits transferring. Those interested can contact the Online Admissions Department at (877) 267-2157 and request a free degree evaluation. Waldorf College alumni, spouses of alumni, and their children receive a 10% tuition discount for all online programs through the Waldorf Learning Partners program. In addition to Occupational Safety, Waldorf also offers degrees in Business Administration, Communications, Criminal Justice, Criminal Justice Administration, Emergency Management, Fire Science Administration, Health Care Management, Homeland Security, and Psychology.
Campus News
Speakers Series hosts Bolstorff TUITION FREEZE The Waldorf Speaker Series welcomed Peter Bolstorff to campus on Wednesday, October 9, for a special presentation about his work as executive director of Mobile Action Ministries, a non-profit that serves hot meals to the homeless and hungry from a food truck in the Twin Cities. Since 2004, Mobile Action Ministries has been traveling to pre-planned service locations in the metro area each Saturday to distribute nutritionally balanced meals to those in need. Six to eight volunteers help prepare and serve the meals, as well as clean the mobile kitchen at the end of the day. “Peter’s work with Mobile Action Ministries is a great example of service to community, which Waldorf College tries to instill in its students,” said Dr. Scott Searcy, dean of the college. Bolstorff’s presentation “One Journey, Two Roads” ties in with the book Waldorf students have been reading in their first-year seminar class: Start Something that Matters by Blake Mycoskie. The book encourages readers to impact the world in a positive way and emphasizes the entrepreneurial spirit, two qualities Peter demonstrates. He is also the CEO and president of SCE Limited, a firm that assists companies in improving supply chain performance, and co-author of the industry guidebook Supply Chain Excellence. Many people in the Forest City community recognized the Bolstorff name. Peter’s father, David, was the long-time football coach and chaplain at Waldorf, and the college’s football field is named after him. His mother, Donna Strahl-Bolstorff, was also an associate professor in the education department for many years.
Graduation Announced for 2014 The Waldorf College commencement ceremony will be held on Saturday, May 3, 2014 at 2:00 p.m. in the Hanson Fieldhouse. Preceding commencement, Waldorf College will hold a baccalaureate worship service in the Atrium at 10:30 Saturday morning. The commencement ceremony is free to the public and a first come, first servedseating event. If attendees need special arrangements (disabled/elderly) please contact Jennifer Edwards at 641-585-8134 or by email at edwardsj@waldorf.edu. For those unable to attend, the baccalaureate and commencement ceremonies will be streamed online at http://new.livestream.com//waldorfcollegestream
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Students attending Waldorf’s residential programs had one less worry as they began their spring semester. The college announced a tuition freeze for the 2014-2015 school year, meaning current students will not see the standard rise in tuition costs that is common across the country. “The cost of higher education is still very much a concern for our students and their parents,” said Waldorf College President Dr. Robert Alsop. “One of our goals at Waldorf is to provide a private, faithbased education that is affordable to all students.” Waldorf’s current tuition is $19,266, one of the lowest in the region, and is, despite nationwide trends in higher education, even lower than its tuition in 2009-2010. Last year the average increase in tuition at private colleges slowed to 3.8% per The College Board.
“One of our goals at Waldorf is to provide a private, faithbased education that is affordable to all students.” -Dr. Robert Alsop “A tuition increase of 4% in one year can create a financial hardship on students,” explained Waldorf College’s Director of Financial Aid Duane Polsdofer. “While the economy is improving, families are still struggling to find ways to send their children to college,” Alsop said. “Our tuition freeze will place Waldorf College as one of the most affordable private liberal arts institutions in the state.” Both Alsop and Polsdofer encouraged prospective students to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) in order to get a clearer picture of the true cost of college. “Once a student has completed their FAFSA, it’s much easier for the schools they are interested in to give them a financial aid package,” Polsdofer said. “As you compare packages, you’ll see that Waldorf’s final cost is often quite lower than similar private colleges and very competitive with state schools.” In addition to Waldorf’s low tuition, all residential Waldorf College students receive a scholarship, and according to a report by the Institute for College Access & Success’ Project on Student Debt, Waldorf graduates also typically owe $5,000 less than the national average in student loans. “Students can receive a personal, meaningful, and transformative education at Waldorf College in Forest City, Iowa without going into a huge amount of debt,” Alsop said.
Campus News
Waldorf Names New Director of Athletics
Director of Athletics Bart Gray presents a plaque to Women’s Head Basketball Coach Denny Jerome ’70 on November 9.
COURT NAMED AFTER DENNY JEROME Waldorf College honored long-time Women’s Basketball Coach Denny Jerome ’70 on Saturday, November 9 prior to the team taking on Graceland University. The college formally named and dedicated the court in the Hanson Fieldhouse, “Denny Jerome Court” ten minutes prior to tip-off. President Dr. Robert Alsop led the ceremony on behalf of Waldorf. Jerome was honored for his past and future accomplishments with the women’s basketball program. Since the team’s inception in 1972, Jerome has been the only head coach of the Warriors. In that time he has amassed 778 victories and a win percentage of nearly 65%. He currently tops the NAIA Women’s Basketball Active Winningest Coaches list. His teams have qualified on seven occasions for national tournaments. Jerome has coached 18 All-Americans and numerous Academic All-Americans. In addition to 41 years as head women’s basketball coach, Jerome has immersed himself in a variety of positions at the college. He spent three years in residence life, five years in admissions, several years as a professor in physical education, 30 years as an assistant football coach, and 30 years as Waldorf’s director of athletics. The court dedication marks the second time Waldorf has recognized Jerome’s contributions to the college. In 2010, the Denny Jerome Athletic Complex was dedicated in his honor.
Class of 2008: Homecoming 2013 (L to R) Barry Schroeder, Jennie Spencer.
Class of 1988: Homecoming 2013 Roni Lovette
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Waldorf College announced in October the appointment of Bart Gray as director of athletics. Gray comes to Waldorf with experience in the position at three previous colleges, most recently at the University of Wisconsin-Marathon County. “We are highly impressed with Mr. Gray’s skills and experience,” said Dr. Robert Alsop, president of Waldorf College. “We know his energy and talents will be of great benefit to Waldorf’s athletics program, and the student-athletes we serve.” In the six years since Gray arrived as athletic director at UW-Marathon County, athletic programs saw a resurgence in program success. During his time in the NAIA, Gray served on the Council of Athletic Administrators as Chair of Region IV and as a member of the Indoor and Outdoor National Track and Field Championship Games Committees. “I am honored to have been chosen to serve Waldorf College,” stated Gray. “I am looking forward to working with a very talented group of coaches and staff. Waldorf has all the ingredients in place to make some positive strides in the success of our teams and our programs overall.” Waldorf College has 20 collegiate sports including baseball, cheerleading, football, ice hockey, and softball, as well as men’s and women’s bowling, basketball, cross country, golf, soccer and wrestling. Gray earned his bachelors and masters degrees in Physical Education from the University of Wisconsin - La Crosse and received his Educational Leadership Certification from Viterbo University. He is also licensed as a K-12 principal in both Wisconsin and Minnesota. Gray and his wife Pam have three children and five grandchildren.
Class of 1993: Homecoming 2013 (L to R) Kevin Holtan, Wendie Tomlinson Fagen, Melanie Jensen Marreel. Back: Robert Haxton, Jay Fagen, Paul Van Auken.
Campus News
Warrior Football Joins NSAA Waldorf is proud to announce that they will be joining the North Star Athletic Association in the sport of football, beginning of the Fall 2014 season. “It is with great pleasure that we add a seventh team to our football membership,” Cory Anderson, NSAA commissioner said. “The inclusion of Waldorf will jump start our league into new territory, allowing us to magnify our brand in the NAIA.” Becoming the seventh football team in the NSAA conference could be a critical step towards future success for the Warrior football program. Due to the number of teams in the NSAA, the winner of the conference championship will now be an automatic qualifier into the NAIA playoffs as long as they are ranked in the top 20. “Waldorf College is excited to join the North Star Athletic Association in football next season,” said Dr. Robert Alsop, President of Waldorf College. “Since our initial interaction with conference officials, we have been impressed with the organization and its commitment to the student-athlete. These are high quality academic institutions with which we are pleased to be associated.” Waldorf will begin their NSAA football conference games in August of 2014. Waldorf College was previously in the Mid-States Football Association. Other Warrior sports competed in the Midlands Collegiate Athletic Conference (MCAC). The NSAA football conference schedules will be released soon.
Class of 2008: Homecoming 2013 (L to R) Bekka Kolden, Peggy Hantelman, Nikki Pals, Kayli Staubus, Daisy Wallace.
Waldorf adds Track and Field In December, Waldorf College announced the expansion of its athletic programs with the addition of women’s and men’s indoor and outdoor track and field, set to begin this fall. “With the intended completion of the new track and field facility in August 2014, officially adding men’s and women’s track completes the process for this addition to our varsity athletic programs,” said Bart Gray, Waldorf Director of Athletics. In January, the Warriors named Kendrick Clay the head coach for track and field and cross country. In ten years at Hastings College, Clay more than doubled the size of the school’s programs, coached more than 200 national qualifiers and 12 individual National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) national champions while helping his student-athletes produce 40 new school records. Clay’s first priority will be to recruit and develop runners at Waldorf. His experience at Hastings, where he engineered the emergence of the cross country and track teams, will help kick-start the Warrior teams. “He is known and respected in the track and field/cross country community throughout the Midwest and the NAIA,” Gray said. “Kendrick will bring instant credibility to our new program and provide experienced leadership.” Clay brings a wealth of experience and energy to the already revitalized and impressive athletic offerings at Waldorf. “Our entire athletic department will benefit from Kendrick’s experience and leadership skills,” Gray said. “We are very fortunate to be able to hire a coach of Kendrick’s caliber.” Waldorf’s addition of track and field will run in conjunction with the college’s third phase of upgrades to its athletic facilities through a shared services agreement with the city of Forest City, Hanson Foundation and Forest City High School. During the past three years, Waldorf has installed artificial turf on Bolstorff Field, home to the Warrior football and soccer programs. The baseball and softball fields were also converted to artificial turf. The third and final phases will include the installation of an eight-lane track around Bolstorff Field, areas for field events, and upgrades to the concessions facility.
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Campus News
men’s cross country ends season in MCAC Championships The Waldorf men’s cross country team concluded the 2013 season with a fifth-place finish in the Midlands Collegiate Athletics Conference (MCAC) Championships in November. Cody Clark turned in the top finish for the Warriors in the MCAC Championships. The sophomore from Lexington, S.C. charged to 18th place, logging a time of 31 minutes, 33.15 seconds on the 8K course at Lawrence, Kan. Clark finished just four places shy of earning all-conference honors. Timothy Brackett was Waldorf’s No. 2 runner in the season’s final meet, crossing the finish line in 25th (33.08.99). Trevn Lee ran to 27th (34.22.32) in the final meet of his career, and Adam Brinkman placed 29th (38.15.06) in his first-ever league championship race. Isaiah Lufkin took 31st (41:06.27) to add the remaining team score for the Warriors. Haskell Indian Nations University locked up the MCAC championship, scoring 34 points. The runner-up spot went to York College (47). Oklahoma Wesleyan University (51) took third, finishing ahead of Central Christian College (97) and Waldorf (130). Brinkman, Clark and Lee were honored at the conclusion of the season as MCAC Scholar-Athletes.
women’s cross country places fifth in MCAC Championships The Waldorf women’s cross country Ariana Sanchez and Kristin Lanier also team completed the 2013 season with competed for Waldorf in the season finale. a fifth-place showing in the Midlands Sanchez came in 35th (26:10.33) while Collegiate Athletic Conference (MCAC) Lanier finished 38th (32:33.90). Championships in November. College of St. Mary captured the Kayla Hicks paced the Warriors in the MCAC title with 35 points. Haskell Indian final meet of the season. The hard-running Nations University (49) secured second, sophomore from Rockford, Ill. battled to placing ahead of Oklahoma Wesleyan 24th place with a time of 23 minutes, 39.68 University (56), York College (82), Waldorf seconds on the 5K course at Lawrence, Kan. (142) and Central Christian College (154). Jenna Tegtmeyer took 25th (23:44.63) Lanier, Tegtmeyer and Godwin were for Waldorf in the league championships recognized by the MCAC for the hard work and Maria Garcia wasn’t far behind to earn in the classroom, earning MCAC Scholar26th (23:52.26). Jessica Godwin placed 33rd Athlete honors. (25:53.50) and Melanie Chandler pulled in 34th (26:04.56) to provide the Warriors with their final team score.
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Volleyball finishes with .500 record The Waldorf College volleyball team ended the 2013 campaign in the Midlands Collegiate Athletic Conference (MCAC) Tournament semifinals, closing out the season with a 24-24 record. The Warriors swept Haskell Indian Nations University 25-11, 25-15, 25-13 in the opening round of the MCAC Tournament. Waldorf battled in the semifinals, but College of the Ozarks prevailed to win 2225, 25-20, 26-24, 16-25, 15-7. The Warriors made their presence known in the MCAC, placing third with a 9-4 league record and finishing just three and a half games behind conference champion Bellevue University. Waldorf played its best on its home court, posting a 10-4 record at Hanson Fieldhouse. The season also included a seven-match winning streak that spanned from Sept. 24 to Oct. 5. Waldorf’s Meagan Macias and Kendra Stokke landed on the All-MCAC First Team. Macias, a junior right-side hitter from Hacienda Heights, Calif., led the Warriors with 457 kills and .272 hitting percentage. Stokke shined in her freshman season. The Spirit Lake native was third on the team with 357 kills. Aby Emiru received All-MCAC Second Team honors. The freshman outside hitter from Woodbury, Minn. turned in a strong all-around season. She notched a team-high 62 ace serves, ranked second on the team in kills (414) and third in digs (504). Becca Flavin, a sophomore setter from Loves Park, Ill., garnered All-MCAC honorable mention recognition for the Warriors. She turned in a team-high 87 assists to go with 41 aces and 140 digs. Courtney Palmer, Carlee VonHoldt, Shaye Sutherland, Lauren Camp and Flavin were recognized as All-MCAC Scholar-Athletes.
Campus News
men’s soccer sets new school mark It was a record-breaking year for the Hassel earned all-conference honors as Waldorf men’s soccer team as the Warriors a defender. The senior from Tacoma, Wash. topped the school’s single-season win led Waldorf with eight assists. record in 2013. McArthur and Arenas earned allWaldorf rewrote the school record MCAC recognition as midfielders. books, finishing the year with an 8-10-1 McArthur, a junior from Elkins, W.Va., record to best the previous mark of 7-11 set finished with three goals and three assists. in 2007. Arenas, a Cheyenne, Wyo. native, The Warriors grabbed third place in the ended his senior season with five goals. Midlands Collegiate Athletic Conference Amoah made a big-time impact. The (MCAC) standings with a 3-2 record, ending sophomore from Albertville, Minn. led the the season three games behind league Warriors with 11 goals. He posted a .622 champion Oklahoma Wesleyan University. shooting percentage with 28 of his 45 shots Waldorf collected four straight victories on-goal. from Oct. 12 to Oct. 26 and ended the season Scott Hanson, Carlos Ruiz, Trevn Lee, in the MCAC Tournament semifinals. Luke Zacharias and Hassel were named The Warriors brought home postseason MCAC Scholar-Athletes. honors with Alejandro Olmos, Charles Hassel, Scott McArthur, Jorge-Lugo Arenas and Kwaku Amoah being tabbed as AllMCAC Second Team selections. Kwaku was also named the conference’s Newcomer of the Year. The 2013 season marked a major turning Olmos, a senior goalkeeper from Rupert, point for the Waldorf women’s college Idaho, recorded 108 saves on the season. soccer team as the Warriors surpassed the school’s record for wins in a season. Ending the year with a 9-9-1 record allowed Waldorf to eclipse the 8-5-1 record posted in 1999, when the school was a twoyear college. Waldorf became a four-year college in 2003 and the Warriors’ best record in the new era was a 7-11 finish in 2009. The 2013 squad scored 39 goals during the regular season and recorded 43 assists. Waldorf allowed 26 goals and recorded six shutout victories to break the previous mark of five shutouts. The Warriors gave up just five goals in Midlands Collegiate Athletic Conference (MCAC) play. Waldorf’s
women’s soccer breaks single-season win record goalkeepers also had a record-breaking performance, posting a .772 save percentage. The Warriors tied for second place in the MCAC standings with a 4-2 league mark – the best finish the program ever achieved. Waldorf also clinched its first berth in the MCAC playoffs. Karissa Vilks and Mia Crail were named First-Team All-MCAC selections for the Warriors while Britney Thornton and Kaylee Vitale earned Second-Team AllConference recognition. Jessica Godwin, Kristi Haakma, Vitale and Vilks received MCAC Scholar-Athlete awards for outstanding academic achievement.
Lone win highlights football season The Waldorf College football team A loaded schedule presented a faced a tough schedule in 2013, picking up challenging year for Waldorf, which its only win of the season against Trinity included National Association of Bible College. Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) national Opening the season with a four-game champion Grand View University and two losing streak, the Warriors put one in the other ranked opponents. win column with a 13-2 victory over Trinity Waldorf’s Quamel Johnson, Kenneth Bible College on Oct. 5 at Ellendale, N.D. Hortizuela and James Loydd capped the Cordell Black provided a 29-yard season by earning All-League honorable touchdown run and Chris Oliver scored a mention recognition from the MSFA’s touchdown on a fumble recovery to lead Midwest League. Waldorf in the lone win over the Lions. Johnson was honored as a defensive The Warriors closed out the season back. The senior from Fort Wales, Fla. losing their final six games to finish with collected 67 tackles and came away with a 1-10 record and a 0-6 mark in the Mid- an interception. States Football Association (MSFA).
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Hortizuela, a senior from Fresno, Calif., anchored the defensive line. He finished the year with 65 tackles and a sack. Loydd, a senior wide receiver from Fort Wales, Fla., led the Warriors in all-purpose yards with 1,126 yards on the season (102.4 yards per game). He also averaged 67.8 yards The 2013 season marked Waldorf’s final campaign in the MSFA. In February, the Warriors announced that they will join the North Star Athletic Association (NSAA) in the fall of 2014.
Campus News
FACULTY/STAFF News Professor of Biology Dr. Paul Bartelt recently received a grant from the Iowa DNR to begin studying Tiger salamanders inhabiting restored wetlands in Winnebago County, Iowa. This fall Tim Bascom, director of creative writing, published the essay “Bicentennial Pie” in an anthology from the University of Nebraska Press, Fried Walleye and Cherry Pie: Midwestern Writers on Food, which led to readings at Prairie Lights Bookstore in Iowa City and Beaverdale Books in Des Moines. Bascom also published an essay titled “My Mystical Body” in the spring issue of The Briar Cliff Review and a poem titled “Illumination” in the winter issue of Ilanot. Michael Farndale, associate professor of physics and mathematics, presented a demonstration entitled, “Boyle’s Law using a Vernier Pressure Sensor” to the Iowa Section of the American Association of Physics Teachers in November at the RAMS Center in Oelwein, Iowa. Dr. Eric Franco, assistant professor of education, was recently named Senior Fellow at the Kosovo Policy Center, and serves as a board member for the Iowa Sister States Kosovo Committee. He also presented multiple times in March about the Balkans. Mason Harms, Waldorf’s chief financial officer, serves as president of Forest City Entertainment, LLC, the group responsible for re-opening the Forest Theatre. Forest City Entertainment received the Volunteer of the Year Award at the Forest City Chamber of Commerce Annual Meeting held February 24, 2014.
Library Director Elizabeth Kiscaden is featured in the March edition of Computers in Libraries with her article, “Utilizing Prezi as an Instruction Tool.” Assistant Professor of Psychology Dr. Julia Maier has a paper appearing in a forthcoming issue of Psychology of Popular Media Culture: “Media influences on self-stigma of seeking psychological services: The importance of media portrayals and person perception.” Nancy Olson ’75, director of institutional relations, received the Merit Award at the Forest City Chamber of Commerce Annual Meeting held February 24, 2014 for her vision and tireless efforts in organizing a community “Dancing with the Stars” event to benefit Rotary and local organizations. Associate Professor of Music Dr. Kristín Jónína Taylor has performed numerous times including at the Taiwan Institute for Senior Citizens at Rice University. She’ll also be performing at the 15th Annual Minneapolis/ St. Paul Mu Phi Epsilon Chapter’s Schools Benefit Concert this April. Dr. Kyle Torke, visiting associate professor in English, read his essay “Sunshine Falls” at the Luise V. Hanson Library in February as part of the Waldorf Faculty and Visiting Writer’s series. The essay appears in Sunshine Falls, a collection of essays published by Bondfire Books, and clips from the reading can be found on YouTube.
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Dr. David S. Sollish, assistant professor of theatre, represented Waldorf as a guest artist and recruiter at the Mosaic Invitational in Detroit, Detroit School of the Arts, Marine City High School, and University of Detroit-Mercy High School in October. In January, Sollish represented Waldorf at the Missouri Thespian Festival as a recruiter and workshop leader. He also took eight nominated students to the Kennedy Center/American Collegiate Theatre Festival where he led two well-attended workshops and was featured in the region’s Faculty Acting Showcase. He will also have an article in the upcoming issue of Theatre Journal.
Former FACULTY/STAFF News Alfred “Al” Disrud, former administrative assistant to the president and director of development at Waldorf from 1957-1966, died November 30, 2013 in Waverly, Iowa. Following his work at Waldorf, Al became the vice president for development at Wartburg College in Waverly and then went on to work for CUNA Mutual Insurance Company Trustee of Mutual Funds for 17 years before retiring in 2004. Al was a longtime member of Redeemer Lutheran Church in Waverly where he served on church council. He also served on the board of directors for the Waverly Chamber of Commerce, Waverly Rotary Club, Bremwood Childrens’ Home, Bartels Lutheran Retirement Community and Waverly Municipal Hospital Foundation. In his spare time, Al enjoyed writing, reading, traveling and fishing. Survivors include his loving wife of 62 years, Ruth Bergan Disrud ’44, two sons, and a sister. Mildred Hyland Drentlaw ’38 died November 21, 2013. Mildred met her husband, Irwin Hyland ’38 at Waldorf and married him in 1940 in the college chapel. They were blessed with six children. After Irwin finished Luther Theological Seminary in 1944, Mildred journeyed with him to pastorates in
Campus News Centerville, South Dakota; Kiester, Minnesota; Peterson, Minnesota and Osage, Iowa. Following his death in 1959, she moved to Forest City where she worked as parish secretary at Immanuel Lutheran Church. In 1962 she accepted a position as bookstore manager at Waldorf College and served in that role until she married Hugh Drentlaw of Northfield, Minnesota in 1974. They resided just south of Northfield following marriage until Hugh’s death in 2000. Mildred took pride in her Norwegian heritage and enjoyed baking cinnamon rolls, donuts, lemon meringue pie, Norwegian rommegrot, and making use of the bountiful produce grown in Hugh’s gardens. Mildred was an active member of several congregations, and most recently at St. Peter’s Lutheran Church in Northfield. She held leadership positions in the Women of the Church, Sons of Norway Nordmarka lag, the local chapter of Lutheran Brotherhood and Northfield Retirement Community Auxiliary. Survivors include her daughter, Solveig Hyland Carlson ’61; four sons, David Hyland ’63, Paul Hyland ’64, John Hyland ’69, and Mark Hyland; and a sister. Robert “Bob” Johnson ’54, former director of planned giving, vice president for development, and special assistant to the president for campus planning at Waldorf received the John K. and Luise Hanson Lifetime Achievement Award during the Forest City Chamber of Commerce Annual Meeting held February 24, 2014. Bob has served on many local boards and committees over the years and most recently helped design the lobby and proposal for Phase 2 of the Forest Theatre. Lyle Kelley, former faculty member and counselor, died August 23, 2013 in Plato, Minnesota. Survivors include his wife, Nedra, three daughters, and a sister. Maxine Pint, former receptionist and switchboard operator, died January 26, 2014 in Britt, Iowa. Maxine enjoyed baking, decorating, flower gardening, antiques, and most of all spending time with her family. She was an active member of Immanuel Lutheran Church in Forest City. Survivors include her husband, Norbert; three children including Angie Boeset Steiner ’86; a step-daughter; and three siblings.
Staff Profile: Karla Schaefer Waldorf College bookstore manager
Interacting with the people at Waldorf is what Karla Schaefer enjoys most about working at the College. She not only believes in Waldorf’s mission, but she sees it in action every day. “I know the professors have a heart for what they do and are providing our students with a good education. They believe in the good, and so do I. That’s what draws me to this place,” she said. Schaefer first came to Waldorf as assistant to the registrar 20 years ago. In 1998, she changed positions and began working for the Waldorf Bookstore located in the lower level of the campus center. Four years later she became the bookstore manager and has been the driving force behind making the store more visible to students and alumni, both on campus and online ever since. In 2006, the Waldorf Bookstore moved from the basement of the campus center to a larger, brand new location with bright windows in Voss Hall. “With most of the college classes and activities held in buildings connected to Voss Hall, the new store is much more accessible to students and alumni,” Schaefer said. “It is also more convenient for visitors who walk by on their way to the admission office.” As manager, Schaefer does it all, from selecting and ordering merchandise, inventory, and buying back textbooks from students to running the cash register and keeping the books. Given her friendly personality, however, it comes as no surprise that her favorite part of the job is working the floor and greeting customers. Schaefer has a flair for creating displays that entice people into the store and she changes them regularly to keep them fresh. Of course, students, faculty, staff and visitors are drawn to her warm smile and easy approach. She has mastered the fine sales line of being helpful without being too pushy. While Schaefer continues to adapt her store merchandise to reflect the changing times, she always makes sure there is a wide selection of Waldorf College imprinted items that appeal to people of all ages. This former cosmetologist has found her calling by serving students and promoting Waldorf College through bookstore merchandise, while offering good old-fashioned Waldorf hospitality to whomever she meets along the way. Karla lives with her husband, Scott, in Forest City. In her spare time she enjoys playing golf, spending time with family and friends, and every once in a while singing a little karaoke.
Order Waldorf bookstore items online!
www.waldorfbookstore.com (select merchandise also available in the campus store) www.shopwaldorfgear.com (additional merchandise not available in the store) www.uplomausa.com/waldorf-college (new, customized recognition pieces)
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Campus News
New Mascot: Warrick Waldorf College unveiled a new mascot during their homecoming celebration in the fall of 2013, but he remained nameless for several months until a campuswide vote determined he would be called “Warrick.” The Waldorf College Student Senate has been talking about replacing the old mascot, Wally, for several years. The students wanted something that looked a little more like a warrior and less like a “friendly grandpa.” Wally was developed in the 1980s and was starting to look a bit dated. “He served his time well and was certainly a lovable character that Waldorf responded to,” Jason Ramaker, Dean of Students, said. Many pieces of the mascot have been lost, including Wally’s original gloves and boots. The Student Senate does a campus improvement project every year. They saved money for several years to contribute to a new mascot as their campus improvement project in 2013. Due to the high expense of a custom-designed highquality mascot, the Student Senate teamed up with the Waldorf College Student Life and Intramural departments to make the project possible. Student Senate then reached out to Waldorf students and faculty/staff for name suggestions. Of the over 200 submissions, four names were chosen as top contenders: Frodlaw (Waldorf backwards), Walcules, Walson, and Warrick. In an online poll that finished February 21, Warrick prevailed. The name Warrick, which means “protecting ruler and strong leader,” rolls off the tongue smoothly and reflects the image of the new mascot. Ramaker was astonished at the amount of detail that goes into designing and creating a mascot. “Color, fabric, laces, headwear, facial hair, chest size – it’s all discussed until there is a final image proof. It’s probably something you only do a handful of times a century,” he said. Students love performing as the mascot, because it requires a lot of acting, precise and creative movements to be really effective. Acting as the mascot is also more difficult than one would expect. It’s hot, vision is limited and it can be hard to move. Warrick features state-of-theart technology to keep performers cool and comfortable, including a cooling pad in his chest and a fan in the head. “Everybody loves a mascot. They represent your school, school colors and give unique identity to the college that students, employees and guests can enjoy,” Ramaker said. In the future, he hopes to find a place on campus Above: After a campus vote, to showcase Wally as a the new mascot is named beloved historical symbol. Warrick the Warrior.
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HERO BEHIND THE HERO SCHOLARSHIP AWARDED Every year, Waldorf College elects up to ten online students and one residential student to receive the Hero Behind the Hero scholarship. In February, two deserving recipients were chosen as beneficiaries to this honor. Leslie Hancock, 33, of Senoia, Georgia and Victoria McQuillen, 20, of Wolfeboro, New Hampshire were awarded the Hero Behind the Hero scholarship. “It simply means an opportunity of a lifetime that allows me to follow my educational dreams that would have never happened otherwise,” Hancock said. McQuillen said her inspiration to apply for the scholarship was being the oldest of six children, “I wanted to show my siblings how important it is to go to college.” The Hero Behind the Hero scholarship, which honors the spouses and children of active-duty public safety personnel (firefighters, law enforcement officers, EMTs and dispatchers) and military men and women annually, covers tuition for up to 24 months for one specific online degree program with Waldorf. Leslie Hancock is the wife of Richard Hancock, an accident investigator/traffic enforcement officer with College Park (Ga.) Police Department. McQuillen is the daughter of Chief Warrant Officer Scott R. McQuillen of the U.S. Marine Corps. Waldorf recognizes the sacrifices made by the family members of America’s military men and women, and public safety personnel. Through the Hero Behind the Hero scholarship, Waldorf continues to show their support of these important people in today’s communities. “With our current incomes and my financial aid, it just wasn’t possible for us to cover the funds needed for me to earn my bachelor’s degree,” said Hancock. “When I received my email, I was sitting in a parking lot with my phone. I opened my email to find my award notification, and I screamed, laughed, and cried sitting in my car! The amount of joy and happiness that this scholarship has given me is amazing.”
Quilt Gifted
Academic Adviser Debra Waldrop received a surprise thank you quilt from two Waldorf College Online students that she assisted as they completed their degrees.
Campus News
Fine Arts Update Waldorf’s fine arts have had a busy year filled with concerts, recitals, gallery openings, and theatre productions. Many alumni have enjoyed coming to campus to support the fine arts, and those that live far away have commented on how much they enjoy live streaming our fine arts activities over the internet. All of our streamed fine arts events can be rewatched online at http://new.livestream.com// waldorfcollegestream. Christmas with Waldorf December began with the annual Christmas with Waldorf tradition featuring The Waldorf Choir, Wind Symphony, Schola Cantorum, and Sangkor. The celebration returned to Immanuel Lutheran Church for the second year in a row. “This year we celebrated the Angel’s proclamation of ‘Glory to God in the highest and peace on earth,’” said Choral Director Dr. Adam Luebke. The program featured many familiar carols, as well as John Rutter’s thrilling Gloria for choir and brass. The audience was able to join in on the fun by singing “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing” and “Silent Night” with the choirs and instrumentalists. Christmas with Waldorf 2014 is scheduled for December 6 and 7.
Alumnus Matthew Peake ’03 had his showcase in late fall. “After noticing that many of our students had an interest in photography, I wanted to feature it in the Gallery,” explained Art Gallery Director Dean Swenson. “The fact that Matthew is an alumnus and someone who uses a camera both on the job and in pursuing his own art makes his exhibit all the more exciting.” Senior Alexander Horak had his senior show this semester and the final exhibit of the year will feature students currently enrolled in Swenson’s courses.
Theatre Productions The Waldorf College Theatre Department provided numerous quality mainstage shows this year including “Arsenic and Old Lace,” “Macbeth,” and “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee.” They’ll wrap up their season with the classic “Steel Magnolias” in early April. In addition to performances in Smith Theatre, students have been busy with senior shows. Deci Westbrook directed “Dog Sees God” in the fall, and Kelsey Sollish and Dominque Forte will each debut their productions in April. Art Gallery The Waldorf theatre staples of 24-Hour Theatre, This year’s Waldorf College Art Gallery exhibits Haunted House, and Musical Theatre Showcase all have been dedicated to featuring local artists. returned, much to the community’s enjoyment. Ranging from impressionist painting of farm animals to striking photographs of economic decline, gallery Choir Tour attendees have enjoyed the diversity of work that The Waldorf Choir will enjoy a tour this May comes from the local area. to the east coast. Stops include Mahomet, Ill., Worthington, Ohio, Falls Church, Va., Bethesda, Md., Washington D.C., Langhorne, Pa., Doylestown, Pa., and Chicago, Ill. “Touring gives the students numerous opportunities for growth as musicians and in their personal lives,” Luebke said. Stream Events: One highlight of the tour will be performing http://new.livestream.com// at the Washington National Cathedral. Alumni are waldorfcollegestream encouraged to attend concerts in their area, and a full schedule will be posted at www.waldorf.edu.
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Campus News
Freshman develops YMCA homework program Waldorf College freshman Casey Loken may not be an education major, but that doesn’t mean she isn’t passionate about helping local children learn. Last fall Loken developed Casey’s Homework Corner, a program affiliated with Forest City’s YMCA after school childcare. “When students get that moment of understanding, it makes you feel so great,” Loken said. “I’m majoring in communications, but I’ve always been good with kids and really enjoy working with them.” Loken credits her mom, a parent educator, as an influence for her program. “My mom teaches parents how to be better parents,” she said. “Parents come to her for tips on discipline, eating healthy, and other tips. Oftentimes parents would bring their kids along, and I’d get to play with them while their parents learned.” Multiple times a week, Loken meets with several students between fourth and eighth grade. When the YMCA asked her to develop her program, they allowed her to create the rules and give rewards for students succeeding. She has a passion for being creative, so when Forest City YMCA Executive Director Bruce Mielke gave her permission to run with the program, Loken was thrilled. In addition to helping with homework, Loken has also taught some students basic sign language. “A lot of times we practice spelling, so I’ve helped a few kids learn the alphabet in sign language,”
Loken said. “If they’re stuck, we sign the word out. The students seem to enjoy it because it lets them learn with their hands.” This summer Loken plans on taking her passion for children with her to work at Riverside Lutheran Bible Camp. “I strongly believe in the saying, ‘show them that we are Christians by our love,’” said Loken. “I just believe in helping and love everyone, and that’s how I share my faith.”
Above: Casey Loken (left) helps local students with their homework at her YMCA Casey’s Homework Corner program.
Class of 1978: Homecoming 2013 (L to R) Jim Rasmussen, Laurel Osnes Rye, Dennis Kalvig, Lori Meyer Cleare, Zahid Rahim.
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F o u n d at i o n N e w s
Left: Ray McQueen, Raymond Beebe, Zahn Picken, Kendra Stokke, Cody Clark, Crystal Langford, and Phil Detrick.
A LETTER FROM THE FOUNDATION CHAIR Dear Friends, In my letter in last year’s spring edition, I noted that while I had never attended Waldorf College, my wife Joan and I, in the years since moving to Forest City as newlyweds in 1969, had come to recognize the importance of the college to the Forest City community and the positive impact the Waldorf experience has had on so many young people. I thought it made sense to put “My first semester was tough with my mother passing away. I my impressions about Waldorf was planning to leave at the end of the first semester, but the College to the test, so last spring I invited seven students to join me for comfort and support I received in this time of need changed. pizza and asked them to share their Knowing that I could count on people I had only known for two impressions of the college. I was so months opened my eyes.” inspired and had so much fun with these students that we decided to make “Pizza with the Foundation Chair” an annual event. So -Ray McQueen, a senior from once again I gathered with seven students on February 17. Duarte, California Just as it occurred last year, I walked away from our “Waldorf is not a small college, meeting on an emotional high as I once again confirmed that the Waldorf experience does indeed change young people’s lives in so many it is a big family. For a small positive ways. I am providing inspiring quotes from some of those students, but campus we have many I also want to point out some common themes. The quote about Waldorf being a “family” was something they all embraced. opportunities, and I can’t think There were countless accolades for the professors and other staff for truly caring of one student on campus about the students and freely spending time with them to discuss both academic and personal issues. The students echoed sophomore Cody Clark in stating that who just attends classes and at Waldorf you are much more than a number. They applauded the ability of all doesn’t do anything outside of students to participate in any number of extracurricular activities. We talked the classroom.” about Waldorf educating the whole person, and these students told me they had grown not only academically but emotionally, physically and spiritually as -Kendra Stokke, a freshman “Waldorf has offered me so much, and well. Wow, that is powerful stuff! And that my from Algona, Iowa I have grown so much as a person in dear friends is why it is so important that we support present and future students through scholarships offered by the just two years time. I cannot wait to Waldorf Foundation. The college truly is changing lives. Let’s ensure see what God has in store for me over that as many young people as possible have that Waldorf experience! the next few years here.” Sincerely,
-Cody Clark, a sophomore from Lexington, South Carolina Raymond M. Beebe Chair, Waldorf Lutheran College Foundation Retired Vice President, General Counsel & Secretary Winnebago Industries, Inc. (1974-2012)
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F o u n d at i o n N e w s
SHARING God’s Love Greetings! My name is Anne Marie Werthmann, and I have happily assumed the role of campus ministry coordinator after Mary Dickman left to follow her calling at Luther Seminary. This is my second year working for Waldorf College and my primary role is area coordinator for Ormseth Hall and our six theme houses. I was approached about undertaking the campus ministry duties after having a wonderful time attending the spring break mission trip to Red Bird Mission last year. When this year started I honestly had no idea what I was getting myself into regarding this new campus ministry coordinator position. In theory, I knew I would be planning chapel on a weekly basis, working with the different campus ministry groups on campus, and helping plan the spring break mission trip; but I had no idea how many people I would help by finding them a ministry group on campus that would encourage them to grow in their relationship with God. I am excited that in this new role I’m privileged to work with two amazing students who have received scholarships from the Waldorf Lutheran College Foundation to help with campus ministry. Both students have brought enthusiasm and fresh ideas to the program. Shaye Sutherland, a sophomore from Chaska, Minn., is continuing her role as the drama peer minister. So far this year Shaye has presented dramas about social media and the masks we wear on a daily basis. She presented the latter drama during homecoming week and had the highest attendance at chapel for the semester, with over 100 students, faculty and staff. First-year student Kendra Stokke of Spirit Lake, Iowa jumped into campus ministry with both feet. She has been active in the Bible study led by The Bridge, which is a group shepherded by First Baptist Church, and is forming an additional student-led Bible study as well as working on restarting a Fellowship of Christian Athletes chapter on campus for Fall 2014. When I asked Kendra about her campus ministry experience, she responded, “I love how campus ministry and the Lutheran peer ministry group are so open to new groups
on campus. Every day there is something on campus to do to get more involved in God’s ministry whether it is “Like Fire,” Bible studies, Chapel, Catholic mass, or just getting involved in local churches. I’m very excited about the mission trip opportunity during spring break. I can’t wait to go to Tucson, Ariz. and spread God’s Word and share with them the great things God is doing here at Waldorf.” Kristen Wilke, a sophomore from “I love being a part of Elkader, Iowa who is active in “Like campus ministry and Fire,” went on the mission trip to Red Bird Mission last year and will go on this year’s watching it grow not only trip to Tucson, Ariz. She said, “When I in numbers, but in the think about campus ministry, I think of all the opportunities there are for students relationships shared with on campus! Every event we do brings Jesus Christ!” excitement to campus and is full of energy from the students who come. I love being a -Kristen Wilke, a sophomore part of campus ministry and watching it grow from Elkader, Iowa not only in numbers, but in the relationships shared with Jesus Christ! I am so happy there are people on campus of all denominations and backgrounds who come to share the love of God with one another, no matter their differences.” As the students stated, campus ministry is all about relationships. The relationships that are developed and nurtured each week bring members of the Waldorf community closer to God, friends, and with the pastors, priests, and lay people who give their time to share their love of God with students and encourage them to dig deeper in their relationships with God. As we continue to fundraise and prepare for the mission trip to Tucson, Ariz. with Praying Pelican Missions, I am hopeful and excited for the growth that will happen in the Waldorf students, the faculty/staff chaperones, and the people we will be serving in Tucson.
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F o u n d at i o n N e w s
Waldorf Lutheran College F
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The Waldorf Lutheran College Foundation Priorities The Waldorf Lutheran College Foundation Alumni and friends can make a gift by credit card, affirms the mission of Waldorf College to be an by calling 641-585-8148, or give online by visiting engaging community of learning and faith where http://www.waldorffoundation.org. relationships are formed and opportunities for When making a gift to the Foundation, please learning and service abound. The Foundation is a non- designate on your check or online form if you would profit, 501(c)(3) organization that provides financial like it to apply to a certain priority. For information resources to honor the past ideals of the college and to about establishing a new annual scholarship or enrich learning and spiritual opportunities for future other ways you can support the Foundation, please generations of Waldorf College students, empowering contact Nancy Olson at 641-585-8147, or Rita them to impact the world through lives of service. Gilbertson at 641-585-8140. The Foundation funds three major priorities: Thank you so very much for your support! Scholarships – to help students directly with the cost of their education and allow them to have their own “Waldorf experience.” Campus Ministry – to help fund the cost of mission trips, Bible study curriculum, two drama peer minister scholarships and more. Alumni Relations – to help fund publications such as the Waldorf Magazine, area events, and more. Please consider a gift to the Waldorf Lutheran College Foundation today. All sizes of gifts are appreciated and put to good use as noted above! Gifts are tax deductible as allowable by law. To make a gift by mail, please send checks to: Waldorf Lutheran College Foundation 106 South 6th Street Forest City, IA 50436.
Foundation Board Members Ray Beebe, Chairman Rev. Rod Hopp, Secretary Richard J. Corcoran ’70, Treasurer Diane Clark ’72 Travis Finstad ’76 Cecilia Horner Brian Sansgaard ’77 Scott Yegge ’93
Association of Congregations Meets
Foundation provides books to freshmen The Waldorf Lutheran College Foundation gifted the book, Leading Lives that Matter: What Should We Do and Who Should We Be, to all freshmen at opening convocation. The book is a compilation of wisdom, advice, and lessons from Albert Schweitzer, Frederick Buechner, C.S. Lewis, Dietrich Bonhoeffer, Aristotle, Robert Frost, William Wordsworth Longfellow, John Milton, the Bible and more. The book will be used in the freshman seminar class.
Above: Foundation Chair Ray Beebe gives an update on the Foundation at the Association of Congregations meeting.
The annual meeting of the Waldorf Lutheran Association of Congregations was held on Thursday, October 10 in the Ballroom. Association president Rev. Rod Hopp, senior pastor of Immanuel Lutheran Church in Forest City, presided over the meeting. Pastors and delegates representing the majority of the 25 member congregations were in attendance. A college update was given by President Alsop and a Waldorf Foundation update by Foundation Chair Ray Beebe. Special music was provided by Schola Cantorum and a campus ministry overview was presented by Anne Marie Werthmann, campus ministry coordinator, and Rev. Greg Anderson, associate pastor at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Forest City. The Association elected Rev. Matthew Griggs of Central Freeborn Lutheran Church in Albert Lea, Minn. as the new secretary, and re-elected delegate David Rasmussen ’53 as vice president. Lunch was provided following the meeting. The Association honors Waldorf’s heritage by offering support of the campus ministry program through the Waldorf Foundation, encouraging young people to attend Waldorf and praying for the Waldorf community. If your congregation may be interested in joining the Waldorf Lutheran Association of Congregations, please contact Rita Gilbertson at 641- 585-8140 or alumni@waldorf.edu.
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Alumni News
ALUMNUS putTING mind and muscle to good use
Jeremy Scott ’05
Ask any entrepreneur what it takes to start a successful business and likely to top the list are drive and a love for what they do. This couldn’t be truer for Jeremy Scott ’05 when he established Jeremy Scott Fitness in Scottsdale, Ariz. in the midst of a recession. At Waldorf, Scott was a basketball player, special education major and cum laude graduate. Like many college students he ate pizza, stayed up late, and didn’t take very good care of his body. As a result, he discovered he had food allergies and developed other serious health problems such as poor kidney function at the age of 22. “It scared me into action,” Scott confessed. After making a real effort to train and eat healthier, he saw a change in his physique rather quickly. He began to think that if he could do it for himself, he could help others reach their health and fitness goals as well. Six years ago with barely a dollar to his name, Scott packed up his car and headed
south to Scottsdale to crash on a buddy’s bodybuilding, and with his natural good couch and study health conscious fitness. looks, fitness training and motivation, he He earned numerous fitness and nutrition soon caught the attention of the media. certifications and suddenly, things began SHAPE Magazine named him one of the “50 Hottest Trainers in America,” and he to snowball. Scott established a personal training has been featured on well-known sites center in Scottsdale with the purpose of such as Livestrong.com, Muscle & Fitness, helping others become the best physical Bodybuilding.com, Men’s Fitness, Muscle version of themselves through diet and & Strength and many others. He is also exercise. Most of his customers are a PROLAB-MRI & Reebok Sponsored interested in weight loss, so Scott and his Athlete. PROLAB athletes represent and staff coached them on combining good endorse high-quality sports nutrition nutrition and exercise to get them from products to professional bodybuilders, elite athletes and fitness enthusiasts. point A to point B. “It is such a pleasure having an athlete Once Jeremy Scott Fitness was secure, he branched out and co-created “Get Lean of great caliber like Jeremy Scott on the Gluten Free” products and took his business PROLAB Team,” said Colleen West, associate to the internet. He now offers digital products brand manager of MRI and PROLAB. “His and personal coaching in nearly every state, knowledge and fitness expertise make him an and his products are sold worldwide. exceptional brand representative.” Scott is also a nationally published While establishing his business he pushed himself even further by pursuing author and contributing writer to various
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Alumni News fitness magazines. His career gained even more momentum when his blog was listed in the top 20 fitness blogs in the country by Breaking Muscle Magazine. All this attention makes Scott feel a little uneasy, however, as he is a down-to-earth, humble guy from Winona, Minn. who simply wants to enjoy life and help others enjoy theirs. He’s all about keeping things real. Giving back to the community is something else Scott takes seriously. He donates his services to school auctions, gives away training and fitness apparel and takes part in charity runs. He also works with the local ABC -TV affiliate and local magazine as an expert for nutrition and fitness segments. His influence has even rubbed off on his mother. Last July Scott and his proud, fit, 54-year-old mom were featured on the cover of Scottsdale Fitness magazine. Although it may appear that Scott’s life is all fun and glamour, thoughts of his business always weigh heavy on his mind. The marketing and recruiting never stop and it makes it difficult for him to take much time off. After about six hours of sleep each night, he greets every day at 4:00 a.m. just to get everything done that needs his attention. He never stops trying to make himself better, his business better, and others better. And, that is why he loves what he does. “I work with people from all aspects of life,” he said. “From the very wealthy to people who put in 60 hours a week to make ends meet. Their determination to change and get healthier motivates me. To see their confidence level increase as they close in on their goals is very rewarding. They begin to smile bigger, wear different clothes, and walk taller. And, although looking and feeling better won’t make their other troubles go away, they will be better equipped to deal with them as a healthy, fit person ready to take on the world.” His advice to others who have a dream sounds a bit like a Nike commercial – just do it! “So many people live their life thinking someday they will get in shape, someday they will write a book, change careers or reach their goals, but the reality of it is someday never comes and ends up looking back at you in the mirror,” he said. “If you want it, love it and believe it, now is the time to put in the work and get it done.” For more on Jeremy Scott, visit www. jeremyscottfitness.com
Alumni Host Events Across the Country Alumni events were held this winter in Mesa, Tempe and Surprise, Arizona as well as Bonita Springs, Florida. An alumni reception is planned for April 10, from 5-7 p.m. at West End Architectural Salvage in Des Moines, Iowa. Alumni and friends are encouraged to attend. Alumni events provide an opportunity to hear a college update from President Alsop, meet and network with other alumni in your area, and share your Waldorf story. If you are interested in helping host such a gathering in your own community, please contact the alumni office at alumni@waldorf.edu or (641) 585-8140.
Event in Surprise, Ariz. held Jan. 29. (L to R): Back row: Marcia Mohr ’69 (seated), Natalie Alsop, President Bob Alsop, Nancy Bergland Olson ’75, Carroll Egemo ’53, Anita (Carroll’s friend), Don Alsop (President Alsop’s uncle). Front row: Jeanne Sorensen, Richard Erickson, Marion Charlson Erickson ’51, Delores Wilberg Mork ’51, Paul Mork ’52, and Connie Sorensen.
Event in Mesa, Ariz. Jan. 30. (L to R): Peter Hermanson, Janet Severaid Hermanson ’53, Bob Homann, and President Robert Alsop.
Event in Mesa, Ariz. Jan. 30. (L to R): Tom Winch ’71, Deb Naefke McMullen ’71, and Nancy Bergland Olson ’75. Event in Tempe, Ariz. held Jan. 30. (L to R): Natalie Alsop, President Bob Alsop, Nancy Bergland Olson ’75, Dan Briggs ’78, Dresden (Dan’s Friend), Teri Blood Root ’01, Sam Root. Dan Briggs is part owner of the restaurant Spokes on Southern where the dinner was held. Event in Mesa, Ariz. Jan. 30. (L to R): Esther Ann Mattson Brown ’60 , Rita Lemme, and Shirley Ostermann Boyken ’71.
Event in Bonita Springs, Fla. Feb. 20. (L to R): Pat Urban Ryan ’63, Nancy Lee Espe ’62, Maryalys Klemesrud Klapmeier ’59. Second row: Larry Ryan, Roger Espe ’62, Nancy Klein Ihle ’59, Herb Ihle ’59, Rita Ullestad Gilbertson ’79. Back row: Neal Wensinger ’65, Nancy Bergland Olson ’75, President Bob Alsop, Ken Klapmeier.
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Event in Mesa, Ariz. Jan. 30. (L to R): Rita Ullestad Gilbertson ’79 and Lorinda Preston Haugen ’77.
Alumni News
Alumna Honored for 72 Years of Service
Ruth Racek Lee ’45 Photo courtesy of Nirmalendu Majumdar/Ames Tribune
Ruth and Jacob were soon married How many people do you know who the Huxley area growing up, and when she have an innate way of making you feel good was fifteen, the Fjeldberg church council at Fjeldberg Lutheran Church, and Ruth just by being around them; people with kind, asked if she would play the church organ moved to take a position at St. Olaf as the twinkling eyes that warm your soul? People on Sundays – the very pipe organ that was secretary to the chair of the department of who are happy to see you and make you feel donated by her great grandparents. She had music as Jacob completed his degree in like you have made their day just by crossing never played the organ before but she agreed, economics. A couple years later Jacob and their path, whether you are a family member, and her piano teacher helped familiarize her Ruth decided to move back to their farm acquaintance or a complete stranger. People with the instrument. She was the organist home west of Huxley. Soon Ruth resumed her familiar role as who truly listen to what you have to say and there until she graduated from high school never dominate a conversation or compete in 1943 and left to further her education at organist at Fjeldberg. In some respects it was if no time had passed, however, the organ for attention. People who humbly serve Waldorf College. God and others with their talents and do not Little did Ruth know when she attended that she had played on before was gone. glorify themselves. Waldorf as a student that she would one day Unfortunately, the church caught fire in One such gem was honored last fall for return to her alma mater as a faculty member. 1945 and everything was lost. The original her lifetime of service. Even though being In the meantime, however, she went on to organ was replaced by an electronic one publicly recognized may go against the very complete a degree in piano performance which Ruth played until 1973. The church nature of who she is, it was the right time at St. Olaf College, earn her education then purchased a new pipe organ which they and the right thing to do. certificate at Drake University, teach vocal fittingly named the Ruth Lee Organ on Ruth On October 6, Fjeldberg Lutheran and instrumental music in Churdan, Iowa, Lee Sunday. Ruth and Jacob were blessed with four Church in Huxley, Iowa, held two very and pursue her master’s in organ at Drake. From 1949 to 1951, Ruth served as children – sons, Phillip, Daniel and Paul. special church services. The day was officially named “Ruth Lee Sunday” in an instructor for piano and director of the Their only daughter, Nancy Lee Farndale, is honor of Ruth Racek Lee ’45 who has chapel choir at Waldorf College. It was a long-time employee at Waldorf, following there she met her husband, Jacob Lee ’50, in her mother’s footsteps by playing the faithfully served as organist for 72 years! Ruth began taking piano lessons when who sang bass. The couple began courting, organ and serving as the college’s composer she was five years old. She loved music and and when Jacob graduated from Waldorf in residence. Sometimes when Nancy played the her family encouraged her to pursue it. She and transferred to St. Olaf, he made weekly oboe Ruth accompanied her. For a while took lessons from a variety of teachers in visits to see Ruth in Forest City.
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Alumni News
Class of 1958: Homecoming 2013 (L to R) Front: Bonna Anderson Krafts, Bill Johnson, Connie Nilssen Nyhus. Middle: Phyllis Laugen Diggs, Mary Carlson Johnson, Corrine Johnson Bolz, Marlys Peterson Clark. Back: Loel Diggs, Jim Valen, Dixie Severson Teig, Dave Teig, Darlene Carlson Carson.
when Ruth was directing the choir at Fjeldberg, the roles were reversed and Nancy played for her on the piano. “It is always fun to play with mom or for her,” Nancy said. Ruth Lee Sunday highlighted both these talented musicians. Nancy played several of her own arrangements of Ruth’s favorite hymns, however, the showstopper of the day came when Ruth, having laboriously climbed the steps up to the balcony as she had done thousands of times before, played “Festival Tacotta,” a brilliant piece that had her 87-year-old fingers moving all over the keyboard! “I knew she had to be tired by the end of that second service, but that didn’t stop her,” Nancy said. “I sat on the step to watch her play and was just so proud of her. It was amazing,” she continued. Ruth played the organ with as much passion and enthusiasm as she always had and the congregation showed their appreciation like never before. And, after 72 years, it was time for this humble servant to finally take a bow. In two years the church will celebrate its 150th anniversary, but on October 6 they celebrated the person who has played the organ for nearly half that time. Ruth serves as a wonderful example to all of us of how we might use our natural gifts throughout our lifetime to bring honor and glory to God.
Class of 1973: Homecoming 2013 (L to R) Front: Mark Bockwoldt, Cathy Current Popelka, Sue Witte Swackhamer, Joy Lundh Friberg. Middle: Marlys Holtan Andersen, Joy Rosdail Klepacki, Francine Hansen Bergeson, Kathy Bratland Bakken, Sheila Monson Davis, Julie Rendall Flo. Back: Dan Andersen, Andrea Johnson, Juli Alters Knapp, Michael Scherb, Wes Bergland, Carol Quina Bergland, Karmel Quame Evans, Barbara Osthus, Hope Griffith Kordahl, Gary Clark.
Class of 1953: Homecoming 2013 (L to R) Front: Janet Severaid Hermanson, Esther Alfseike Rasmussen, Jack Gertenrich. Back: David Rasmussen, Carroll Egemo, Dick Varberg, Noel Newgord, Lu Ann Matthews Eide, Ron Eide, Dick Erickson, Marjorie Klemesrud Risting, Evelyn Oftedahl.
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Alumni News
The first 110 Years of Waldorf College Most of the content below comes from the book, Continuity and Change: 100 Years – Waldorf College, written by Dr. James Hamre, Professor Emeritus. Dr. Hamre is credited with researching Waldorf’s history for the college’s centennial. If you are interested in purchasing a copy of his book, please contact the Waldorf Library. It is impossible to capture 110 years in one article. However, the following attempts to serve as a brief review of Waldorf’s history, as we continue to honor and celebrate our super-centennial. Waldorf originally began life as a luxurious hotel, built in 1901 to accommodate the many salesmen and other folks traveling to the county seat via the railroad. It was built for a costly $69,000, and was not able to make ends meet due to the competition of a second new, luxurious hotel known as The Summit located across town. Therefore, it closed its doors after only four months of operation. The Rev. C.S. Salveson was a pastor at several congregations in the area at the time, including Immanuel Lutheran Church, known then as Luther Church in Forest City. It was Salveson’s vision to purchase the Waldorf Hotel and establish a Lutheran educational institution. In 1903, he purchased the building for $18,000 and recommended that an association of area churches be formed for the purpose of founding and maintaining a Lutheran college. The Waldorf Lutheran College Association was formed, and Salveson transferred ownership of the building to them for what it had cost him. The Association became the legal owners and founders of an academy institution known as Waldorf Lutheran College with C.S. Salveson serving as the first president.
Rooted in the traditions of Lutheranism as expressed by Norwegian immigrants in America, Waldorf has continued to be shaped by the values and beliefs of its Norwegian Lutheran founders: veracity, discipline, the dignity and responsibility of the individual, a commitment to service, and faith in God. Over the course of the next century, Waldorf would serve as a high school academy, two-year junior college, fouryear junior college (last two years of high school and first two years of college), a three-year BA granting institution, fouryear BA college and online college. The 1904 catalog listed the cost of tuition as $1. Board was $1.75 per week and room rent was 50 cents to $1 per week, depending on the term. In the early years, dorm rooms, classrooms, the library and cafeteria were all contained within Salveson Hall. The Alma Mater, sung by generations of students, faculty and staff, was composed in 1915 by a committee of students and has remained unchanged ever since. In 1920, Waldorf added a junior college to the academy, and the Waldorf Choir was organized. Enrollment numbers experienced hills and valleys on a rather consistent basis, often linked to the state of the country at the time. In 1917, during WWI, Waldorf enrolled more women than men for the first time. In 1942, men’s enrollment numbers plummeted due to WWII. An enrollment burst in the mid1960s led to a building phase on campus. In 1969, 300 students locked themselves in the campus center and held a “dance-in” protest for a right to have dancing on campus and won! That year, chapel was no longer required and the first woman was elected to the College Board of Regents.
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In the 1970s and 80s the college benefitted greatly from the generosity of John K. and Luise Hanson. John K. was the CEO of Winnebago Industries and an alumnus of Waldorf. During those two decades they gifted the land for many of our athletic programs. In 1987, the John K. and Luise Hanson Fieldhouse was built, connecting it to a brand new YMCA. Many years later, at Waldorf’s centennial celebration, it was announced that the John K. and Luise Hanson Foundation would fund a new library, named in honor of Luise. The 1990s brought the building of the Atrium and link connecting Salveson and Thorson Halls. The mid90s was known as the technological age and it was during this time the media center was built and internet became available in the dorm rooms. KZOW, the college radio station, went on the air in 1995, and laptop computers were first provided to all students in 1996. The Honors College was formed that same year. In the mid-to-late 90s, threeyear BA degrees were first offered in communications, business, management information systems, and humanities. In 2001, the North Central Association (NCA) approved Waldorf as a BA granting institution in a fouryear format and Waldorf was listed as one of the top 500 colleges in the nation in the “Best Colleges” issue of the U.S. News & World Report. By 2002, twelve BA degree programs were offered at Waldorf. The Waldorf Lutheran College Foundation was first incorporated and granted nonprofit status in 2006. The world experienced an economic downturn in 2008 and as a result, Waldorf’s enrollment dropped and major donors were unable to fulfill
Alumni News
HOMECOMING 2013 their pledges. Negotiations began with Mayes Education, Inc. to purchase the college. In January of 2010, Waldorf College was sold to Mayes Education, Inc. The original Association of Congregations dissolved and a new one began that same year. Waldorf also launched its first three online programs. In 2013, the NCA lifted restrictions on Waldorf Online so programs may be added at will. Waldorf Online now offers 11 BA degree programs, 14 AA concentrations and 11 certificate programs. However, all this historical information barely scratches the surface of what Waldorf is really all about. Perhaps more than programs and buildings, it is the people who truly make up Waldorf College. Waldorf has been blessed with many dedicated faculty and staff over the years. Some dormitories and buildings bear the names of those who humbly served the college. Common threads of faith, integrity, commitment and dedication were woven throughout each of their lives. All were humble servants who were called to serve Waldorf College in their own unique way at a given time in history. And, as a result, have impacted thousands who have walked Waldorf’s hallowed halls. Current faculty and staff continue on in this tradition, dedicating themselves to a place so dear and going above and beyond the call of duty every day. Every person who has ever been part of the life of Waldorf College in some way over the past 110 years has their own story to tell. These collective stories are part of Waldorf’s history and more stories are being written every day. Stories that will continue to live on for many more generations to come.
“110 Years Young” was the theme for the 2013 homecoming weekend. Hundreds of alumni returned to campus to celebrate Waldorf’s super-centennial, attend class reunions and reconnect with classmates, faculty and staff. The weekend offered a full range of activities from the Friday night Athletic Hall of Fame banquet, bonfire and coronation to the Saturday morning homecoming parade, craft fair, reunion lunch, alumni choir sing-a-long, football and soccer games, Taste of Waldorf alumni banquet, homecoming music concert and Sunday afternoon musical theatre showcase! A complimentary photo booth was also set up in the Atrium to allow friends and classmates an opportunity to make more memories and leave with some fun and zany pictures. Thank you to all who attended homecoming weekend! We loved having you back on campus and hope to see you again this fall. Class reunion photos and other snapshots of the weekend are available to order at https://picasaweb. google.com/WaldorfCollege.Events/ Homecoming2013Classes#. You may also order a print through the alumni office at alumni@waldorf. edu for $3. All homecoming photos are available on Facebook as well. Be sure to “like” the official Waldorf College page.
Golden Reunion Class of 1963: Homecoming 2013 Seated, (L to R) Lois Carlson Wagner, JoAnn Lukenbill Pollock, Lorna Marggraf Stopper, Theresa Askelson Pederson, Marcia Ott Duncan, Bill Haglund, Jim Dotseth, Jay Ackland, Ron Johnson, Tom Urevig. Middle: Liz Pedersen Tweeten, Mary Gilbertson Anderson, Patty Holmen Todnem, Margaret Mork Blume, Ed Tong, Bob Arneson, Gerry Guttormson, Erwin Hill. Back: Jim Donohue, Russ Pollock, Ken Swenson, Howard Laugen, Lauren Simonson,25 Leroy Jensen.
Alumni News
Alumni Distinguished Service Awards presented Waldorf College alumni honored three of their own at the “Taste of Waldorf!” banquet held during homecoming 2013. After a delicious meal and beautiful music by Associate Professor of Music Dr. Kristín Jónína Taylor and Schola Cantorum, the 2013 Alumni Distinguished Service Awards were presented. Professor of Business John Robinson introduced Dr. Mark Lund ’67, and announced he would receive the Waldorf College Alumni Distinguished Service Award “for innovative contributions to Christian Higher Education in the United States and abroad, and for global service to the church.” Lund practically grew upon the Waldorf campus, where his father, Rolf Lund, worked for 36 years. He was interested in poverty and the global disparity between rich and poor from a very early age. After graduating from Waldorf, he went on to earn a BA in economics and a Ph.D. in economic development, and then combined his love for teaching and passion for third world economic development in a 33-year tenure at Luther College. In 1990, he branched out into international education of US students, sending as many as possible to underdeveloped countries to experience the life of the world’s poor. By the time he retired, the program had grown to 75 countries, and Luther ranked 7th in the nation for participation in study abroad. Ms. Jan Rosdail-Aegerter ’72 was introduced by Waldorf Lutheran College Foundation Board Member Ms. Diane Teigland Clark ’72. She was presented with the Waldorf College Alumni Distinguished Service Award “for devoted leadership as special needs educator, tireless advocacy for the church wide mission of Christ and unwavering commitment to Waldorf College.” Rosdail-Aegerter had an interest in ministry from a very early age, preaching the Good Word to dolls and family members alike. After graduating from Waldorf, she earned a BA in special education from Augustana College. She developed a new program for Jefferson-Scranton Community Schools, and taught special education and coached Special Olympics there for 35 years. Rosdail-Aegerter also completed the two-year Lay School of Ministry through the Western Iowa Synod. As an advocate for the church-wide mission of Christ, she has traveled to Tanzania and Chile. Closer to
L to R: President Robert Alsop, Dr. Mark Lund ’67, Jan Rosdail-Aegerter ’72, and Andrew Schryver ’06
home, she has been intimately involved with Ingham Okoboji Lutheran Bible Camps, the mission ELCA congregation in Jefferson, Iowa, and Waldorf College. She has served on the Waldorf College Board of Regents, as president of the Alumni Board, and has only missed two Waldorf homecomings in 43 years. Professor of English Dr. Suzanne Falck-Yi presented the Recent Alumni Award for Service to Mr. Andrew Schryver ’06 “for professional excellence in the insurance industry, service to community, and for faithfulness to the ideals of Waldorf College.” The Schryver family shares a rich history with Waldorf College, and Andrew
Schryver proudly carries on that tradition. Immediately after graduation, he began a career with Nationwide Insurance. Starting as an internal sales analyst, he is now in commercial underwriting and serves as the chair of the company’s Committee for Diversity and Inclusion. His love of soccer has led him to coach a variety of teams, currently two U13 boys teams. He is a natural leader, mentor and motivator. Schryver has taken Waldorf’s “Learn. Live. Serve.” motto to heart, and has volunteered for numerous worthwhile projects that serve the community. Waldorf College is enormously proud of these alumni, and celebrates their success.
Class of 1948: Homecoming 2013 (L to R) Dale Peterson, Ardelle (Brosdahl) Osnes, Arlie Olson
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Alumni News
Recognition and Appreciation at 2013 Athletic Hall of Fame Banquet On November 1, 2013, friends, family and coaches met to honor true Waldorf Warriors – excellent athletes whose achievements are not limited to the playing field. Long-time coach and Waldorf icon Denny Jerome hosted the ceremony in the Salveson Ballroom, which honorees and family traveled from all over the country to attend. Denny Gilbertson ’81, now in his nineteenth year as Waldorf softball coach, introduced Alisa Steffen Turner ’00. “Alisa made an immediate impact on the softball diamond for Waldorf,” Gilbertson said. “The speedy center fielder batted in the leadoff spot for the Warriors and terrorized opponents on the base paths.” Turner helped lead the Warriors to a 42-10 record in 1999 and a third-place finish in the Region XI Championship in 2000. On the way, she received numerous awards, including becoming Waldorf’s only two-time, First Team NJCAA AllAmerican in any sport. Five of her records still stand today. Turner went on to earn a Bachelor of Arts in Accounting and Business Management from Wartburg College, and has managed a Best Buy store in Portland, Oregon for 14 years. She lives in Hillsboro, Oregon with her husband Shane and their three children. Professor of Business Dawn Johnson ’80 presented Terri Blood Root ’00. Root played both basketball and softball for the Warriors, and was an integral part of the 2000 championship softball team. She was named team captain and MVP in basketball in 2000, and received the Waldorf Honor Athlete Award. Root’s commitment to academics equaled her athletic talents. She was the 2000 Scholar of Distinction at the Waldorf College awards banquet that year, and
Class of 1983: Homecoming 2013 (L to R) Kellie Bowen LeClair, Clark Duhrkopf, Mary Jo Hanni Severson.
graduated summa cum laude with a Bachelor of Arts in Finance from Waldorf in 2001. She earned her M.B.A., with distinction, from the University of Iowa in 2009. With Principal Financial Group since 2006, Root is an assistant director and compliance officer. She lives in Phoenix, Ariz. with her husband Sam and their two children. Head Football Coach Kent Anderson introduced Corey Rude ’98, whose impact was immediate when he joined the Warrior football team in 1997. That team defeated William Rainey Harper College in the Pepsi Cola Bowl at the UNI-Dome. Rude was an All-Region Defense selection and earned NJCAA All-American 2nd Team honors. Rude excelled both on and off the field, and was named an Academic AllRegion and Academic All-American. After graduating magna cum laude from Waldorf in 1998, he earned a bachelor’s degree in mathematics education (2000) and a Master of Arts in Education (2010). He has been a high school math teacher with the Hutchinson Public School System for 12 years, and is a coach for football and basketball teams. Rude and his wife Jill live in Hutchinson, Minnesota with their daughter. Director of Alumni Relations Rita Gilbertson presented Leonard Moritz ’63, part of the famous 1962-63 basketball squad that features several Waldorf Hall of Fame inductees. Moritz was named one of the outstanding defenders in the state, and was an essential part of a winning team that finished second in the 1963 state tournament. He was elected honorary co-captain of the squad along with Harold “Gabby” Pierce. After Waldorf, Moritz attended Minnesota Bible College and Pacific Christian College, obtaining a degree in Ministry in 1971. He has served as a youth counselor at Forest Ridge Youth Services since 2000. Moritz has four children, and currently resides in Estherville (where he still holds the high school career rebounding record with 511). In his remarks, Waldorf President Bob Alsop noted that the Alumni Hall of Fame reflects what is best about Waldorf College – students that excel on many fronts, that take the best of Waldorf into the world and go on to learn, live and serve.
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Corey Rude ’98 and President Robert Alsop
Leonard Moritz ’63 and President Robert Alsop
Alisa Steffen Turner ’00 and President Robert Alsop
Terri Blood Root ’00 and President Robert Alsop
Alumni News
I LOVE TO TELL The Story
L to R: Gene Koltvet ’51, Ray Mehl ’51, Bob Evenson ’51 and Paul Watnem ’51.
A Happy Coincidence By Gene Koltvet ’51
A few weeks ago while we were participating in the Sunday morning service at Mission Lutheran Church in Laguna Niguel, CA, a man came in late and sat down beside me. We were in the middle of the liturgy so I didn’t pay any attention to him. The service continued all the way through communion, he followed behind me to the altar and I returned to my seat ahead of him. At the conclusion of the service when the pastor said, “Go in peace and serve the Lord,” I turned to step into the aisle. As I stepped out, the man in front of me turned, extended his hand and said, “Hello, I’m Ray Mehl.” I was stunned, but not puzzled because at that moment I recognized him. I said, “And I am Gene Koltvet.” We both stood there starring at each other, then began to laugh. Ray’s wife, LaMae Ingebretson Mehl ’50, passed away just over a year ago and at his daughter, Kristin Mehl’s ’81 request, he moved from Surprise, AZ, to Laguna Woods, CA, to be near her, which is just up the road about 10 miles. Ray said he had been visiting Lutheran churches in the area since last summer and had chosen Mission Lutheran to be his church home. He had been attending services at Mission for a couple months, but we hadn’t bumped into each other. The coincidence is that Ray and I were roommates at Waldorf. We stayed in the Oscar Branstad house a couple blocks south of the campus. We also sang in the 1950-51 Waldorf Choir and were partners in the Norsemen Quartet. The other members were Paul Watnem ’51 and Bob Evenson ’51. We hadn’t seen each other since our 25th class reunion in 1976. Now, 64 years after graduating from Waldorf we get to sing together again, side by side, in the Mission Lutheran Church choir. The Lord moves in mysterious ways, his wonders to perform.
This title alone conjures the age-old hymn we all have grown to love singing in church or on campus. My hope with this message is that you, a Waldorf College alum, would be willing to tell the story of your own unique Waldorf experience. Your alumni board is undertaking an exciting new journey to aid admissions in spreading the word and message of our alma mater. The Waldorf College Ambassadors Program provides you an opportunity to reach out to prospective students who have shown an interest in attending our school. The only prerequisite is your love and admiration for Waldorf and her mission. This project is quite simple. You may register on our website at http://www. waldorf.edu/Residential/Alumni/Alumni-Ambassador-Program by providing some very basic contact information for the alumni board ambassadors coordinator (I am currently serving in this role), or give me a call at (641) 585-3362. This information will not be used for any reason other than to allow me to contact you regarding this effort. As names of prospective students in your area are received from the admissions staff, I will forward them to you in hopes that you contact them. This may be done by note, email, phone call or even visit to allow you to share your Waldorf story in person and to encourage the student to take a closer look at campus. The method of contact is up to you, whatever you are most comfortable with. You may even recognize some of the names that are sent to you! Our hope is to help Waldorf continue to grow. While our admissions department is staffed with experienced and energetic professionals that do amazing work in spreading the word about Waldorf, nothing can compare to the stories that rest in you. We do not expect you to know everything there is to know about Waldorf today – we simply would like you to share your Waldorf experience. I hope you strongly consider this opportunity to give back to a place that has helped shape the person you are today. With your help, we can continue to tell the story of Waldorf College to a whole new generation of students. Sincerely, Andy Buffington ’90 Ambassadors Coordinator Waldorf College Alumni Board (641) 585-3362 akbuffs@gmail.com
Class of 1968: Homecoming 2013 (L to R) Front: Loanne Marbach Bates, Julienne Friday, Ruth Bartels. Middle: Richard Akland, Sharon Fleming Bahr, Karen Flugum Johns, Sue Pulleyn Lenzen, Phil Swiggum. Back: Neil Gabrielson, Audrey Holtan Olmstead, Tim Bahr, LeRoy Holt, Orville Williamschen, David Steinberg.
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Alumni News
Growing Up at WALDORF Waldorf has always been known for its dedicated faculty and staff; many of whom spent limitless hours on campus preparing for class, working behind the scenes, counseling students or attending college events. In this ongoing series, we will hear memories from some of their children who also spent countless hours on campus – whether they wanted to or not! If you or someone you know “grew up on campus,” please submit their name, contact information, title or position if employed, and memory (one – two paragraphs) to the alumni office at alumni@waldorf.edu. Upon review, your entry may be included in a future issue of the Waldorf Magazine. “Being a part of the ‘Waldorf family’ during the time of my father, Bob Evenson’s ’51, employment at the college holds many treasured memories. Some of my memories involved moving our home to a new location in town so that the college could have our property to build two new dorms – Johnson and London Hall for students. Dave Bolstorff and my dad spent the summer building a basement for the house, as it sat up on blocks waiting for the construction to be completed. If I were to point out one staff member that had an impact on me as a young child, I would have to say it was Muggie Hagen. She so embraced ALL that were in any way a part of the Waldorf Community by her warm hugs, happy personality and enduring love of all. She would always ask about my day, give me cookies, laugh at my childhood antics, and hug me every time she saw me. One can never get the feeling of ‘home’ out their lives and that is what Waldorf and Forest City will always be to me – home.” -Margit Evenson Fritz, daughter of Rev. Bob ’51 and Lill Evenson Bob Evenson joined the admissions staff at Waldorf in 1960 and later served as director of admissions and public relations. In 1966, Bob became director of development and public relations, serving in that role until 1973. Margit and her husband, Duke, live in Clear Lake, SD where she taught first grade for 32 years. She retired last spring. She and Duke have two children, Kayla ’08 and Dylan Fritz.
“I grew up with purple and gold in my blood. In addition to Waldorf being the primary source of our family’s livelihood, I was able to see the lessons my mom and dad discussed translate into action. • Work hard - football practice at Onamia, highway 169 field, and Bolstorff Field; Children’s World • Love to learn - study hall, biology class, pottery class, beginnings of education department, and ethics papers • God, others, self - chapel, Reflections from the Sideline (a devotional by Rev. A. David Bolstorff), Mom’s social justice ministry • Diversity is the real normal - daily interaction with all cultures Waldorf was more than a place to me. It was a mold that helped shape who I am.” -Peter Bolstorff, son of Rev. A. David Bolstorff and Donna Strahl Bolstorff Over the course of 42 years at Waldorf, Dave Bolstorff served as college chaplain, associate professor of religion, student counselor, head football coach, and men’s basketball coach – for two seasons. The Warrior football field was named in his honor in 1995 and he retired in 2006. Donna Strahl-Bolstorff served as associate professor of education at Waldorf for many years; Peter currently serves as CEO and president of SCE Limited, a firm that assists companies in improving supply chain performance, and co-author of the industry guidebook Supply Chain Excellence. He is also executive director of Mobile Action Ministries, a non-profit that serves hot meals to the homeless and hungry from a food truck in the Twin Cities. See article on page 7 of this magazine.
“Moving from Waldorf and Forest City when I was four years old makes it difficult to identify true memories from memories created and kept alive by photos, along with my parents retelling cherished memories of their time at Waldorf. Those many-told-stories plus family trips to Waldorf events since the 40’s helped to keep alive those halcyon days of my youth. Family photo albums show pictures of mock weddings with faculty and administrator’s kids playing the roles. Included in those wedding pictures was Odvin Hagen in a tuxedo holding his baton. There are pictures of Knob Hill, Clear Lake cabins, Waldorf faculty, friends and students. There are many pictures of the president’s house at that time located at 206 S. 6th Street (my brother Jack called it our gingerbread house because it had such ornate trimmings inside and out). Other memories include walking to town with my mom and dad to get ice cream cones with melted chocolate filling the bottom of the cone. There were street parades, athletic games and concerts (my dad was also the Forest City community band leader.) Most special in my memory is when we three kids were allowed to walk next door to see our dad in the big president’s office. I have always hung on to and loved my long connection to Waldorf College and Forest City. I drink my morning coffee in a blue and white Waldorf mug and a framed picture of the college is in our home office.” -Janet Rendahl Hausmann, daughter of Dr. Junald L. and Myrtle Rendahl. Dr. Junald Rendahl became president of Waldorf at the young age of 29 in 1932 and served in that role for 11 years; Janet taught at Oak Grove High School in Fargo, ND and independent study at North Dakota State Univ. She is presently retired from the psychology department. and the student affairs office in academic counseling at Concordia College in Moorhead, MN.
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Alumni News
ALUMNI NEWS Note: The alumni office receives class news from a variety of sources including web page updates, emails, and automatic Google alerts. We apologize in advance if some news is no longer current or accurate. If you have information about yourself or other alumni, please contact the alumni office at 641-585-8140 or e-mail us at alumni@waldorf.edu.
1950s Jean Christian Rein ’51 has lived in Denver, Colo. since 1948. Her husband passed away in 2007. She had an accident that broke her neck last summer, and is now in an assisted living residence in Centennial, Colo. Email: gejere@juno.com Dean Nervig ’58 and his wife, Julia, live in Omaha, Neb. They are both retired.
1960s Esther Mattson Brown ’60 divides her time between Oconomowoc, Wisc. and Arizona. She has two daughters, four grandsons and two great granddaughters. Email: estheranndesigns@sbcglobal.net Lynn Menz ’62 has written and published a book, Ramblings from the Upper Deck: The Life and Times of an Iowa Boy, about his life’s journey. He notes that, in general, he used only first names when he told stories of people in his life. Many people from his Waldorf College years have been part of his stories and may find their names among the pages. Order your copy at http://www.lulu.com/spotlight/lynnmenz. Email: Hawaii@netins.net E. David Sbragia ’64 and wife Judith Wolf Sbragia ’63 recently celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary. They are both retired teachers and live in Rockton, Ill., and winter in Mesa, Ariz. Email: ridgedale1@aol.com Craig Johnson ’67 is a retired market manager at Buzzi Unicem USA. His
wife, Kathleen, is retired from elementary education. They have two children. Ardis Rusten Johnson ’68 is a retired teacher and her husband, Jeff, is a real estate broker/builder. They live in Ramsey, Minn. Email: J14655@aol.com
1970s Fay Stientjes Lourenso ’70 is an educator at Suffolk County Community College. Email: lourenf@sunysuffolk.edu Paul Nelson ’70 retired on November 10, 2013 after serving as pastor at St. James Lutheran Church in Mason City, Iowa for ten years. Throughout his 37 year ministry, Paul served four parishes in Iowa including Lime Springs, Council Bluffs, Grundy Center, and Mason City. Lora Charlson Darling ’72 retired in May 2013 after serving 38 years as a teacher in the IKM-Manning Community School system. Her husband, Jeff, is also retired. Sonja Peterson Johnson ’72 is an impressionist painter of farm animals who grew up on a dairy farm in north central Iowa. Sonja completed her undergraduate work at the University of Iowa, Iowa City for a Bachelor of Arts in Art & Education. She was an art instructor in public schools for 10 years in Missouri, later returning to the family dairy near Callender, Iowa. She has taught numerous classes for adults and children in drawing, printmaking, and painting. Sonja uses a variety of art mediums but prefers to paint in oils, and has participated in group and solo exhibitions in the Midwest. Her animal paintings have been featured on four covers of JAVMA, the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association. Sonja Johnson currently resides in Thompson, Iowa. Marcia Hill Haugen ’73 is a music office coordinator at Wartburg College in Waverly, Iowa. Her husband, Dennis, is a development officer also at Wartburg College. Email: dmahaugen@mchsi.com Hope Griffith Kordahl ’73 is the 7-12 special education teacher at Ellsworth, Minn. Email: danandhope@hotmail.com
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Brent Thie ’73 is a teacher in the Ottumwa, Iowa school district. His wife, Peggy is a business coordinator at Indian Hills Community College. They have three children and live in Ottumwa, Iowa. Brent took up a lifelong interest in bow hunting from Coach Neil Boyd and has many great memories from his Waldorf years including great coaches he’ll never forget. Email: pbthie@gmail.com Dale Fagre ’75 received his Master of Arts in Leadership & Management from Concordia University-St. Paul in May 2013, and joined Opportunity Partners, a non-profit organization, as vice president of advancement, marketing & communications. His wife, Deb, is a teacher and they live in Maple Grove, Minn. They were blessed with a granddaughter in May 2013. Email: dmfagre55311@yahoo.com Larry Morris ’75 has published his first book, Among Us: Stories of Worship and Faith. It is available at www.Amazon.com and www.LarryPMorris.com. Dean Downer ’76 is a 7-12 industrial arts teacher and lives in Massena, Iowa. Mary Watson Hamilton ’76 has published her debut novel for tweens. Hear No Evil, is book 1 in the Rustic Knoll Bible Camp series, published by Hope Springs Books. Her website is www.maryhamiltonbooks.com. Her husband, Wayne, is an engineer and they live in Katy, Texas. Email: mhamilton122@yahoo.com Laurel Osnes Rye ’78 married Kjell-Jon Rye in 2012 and moved to the Pacific Northwest. On their honeymoon to Europe, their marriage vows were affirmed in the American Lutheran Church in Oslo, Norway – the same church the choir performed their first concert in Norway on their tour of Scandinavia back in May of 1978 when Laurel was a member. They live in the Seattle area, where Laurel is an activity coordinator at a retirement community and Kjell is a school teacher. Email: laurel.rye@comcast.net
Alumni News
Kevin Frey ’79 was recently chosen to serve a three year term on the Child Abuse Prevention Advisory Board for the State of Iowa. Kevin is the senior pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in New Hampton, and his wife, Val, is in her 24th year of teaching elementary school in Denver, Iowa. They have three children; Josh is a teacher and boys basketball coach, Andy recently received a commission in the US Navy and is training to be a Naval Aviator in Corpus Christi, Texas, and Emma is a senior at Denver High School.
1980s Julie Johnson ’80 is the author of The Memory Factory: The Forgotten Women Artists of Vienna 1900 (Purdue University Press, 2012) (http://www. thepress.purdue.edu/titles/ format/9781557536136). It is the first book in English on women artists in Vienna 1900. Its primary purpose is to tell the stories of the forgotten women artists of its subtitle, and to explain how they came to be left out of the dominant histories of the period. Julie is an associate professor of art history at the University of Texas in San Antonio. She is married and has one daughter, Isabel. Kathi Diehl Divine ’81 recently received her Master’s in Organizational Leadership from Evangel University in Springfield, Mo. Kathi is employed at the Assemblies of God Leadership & Resource Center as project coordinator for the chief operating officer and the AGTrust in Springfield. Brenda Barinsky Puckett ’83 is a secretary at Middle Tennessee State University and her husband, Mike, is a mechanic.They live in Murfreesboro, Tenn. and have two children. Email: brenda.puckett@mtsu.edu Mary Jo Hanni Severson ’83 is an elementary teacher at Minnehaha Academy and her husband, Galen, is retired. Rick Stufflebean ’83 is creative director at Monarch Home Entertainment. Paul Tjostem ’83 recently became engaged and moved from Bismarck, N.D. to
Redondo Beach, Calif. Email: paultjos@gmail.com Jeffrey Gremmer ’87 married Michelle on October 19, 2013. Jeff is in the process of obtaining a degree in Christian Ministries and Michelle is an occupational therapy assistant/team leader. They live in Garner, Iowa. Email: thesliders.jeff@hotmail.com Kevin Mettler ’87 has been married for 22 years and has three daughters. He has coached football at Mankato Loyola since 1991, taking over the head coaching position three years ago. He is also the youth minister at his church, and works for the State of Minnesota coordinating three Drug Courts for the 5th Judicial District. Christine Sproul Weber ’87 and her husband, Clint, live in Waterloo, Iowa. Email: webersracing@yahoo.com Mark Ingram ’88 is a teacher in the Bartonville Public School District 66. He lives in Bartonville, Ill. Email: wadefunk@ hotmail.com Karen Ostermeyer Krueger ’89 and her husband, Kelly, live in Sioux City, Iowa. Kelly is a senior systems engineer. Email: kkrueger@cableone.net Melissa Shaw Woosley ’89 is the director at Twin Rivers Senior Campus in Cannon Falls, Minn. She and her husband live in Hastings, Minn.
1990s Julie Wright ’91 graduated from United Theological Seminary of the Twin Cities with a Master of Divinity in May 2013. In September, she accepted a position as chaplain at Augustana Health Center in Minneapolis. Anthony Nielsen ’94 and wife Erin welcomed Kaiden Marshall born June 6, 2013. Anthony works at Lincoln Park Zoo as the lead keeper of the Lion House and Seal Pool, and Erin is a school teacher with Chicago Public Schools. They live in Chicago, Ill. Email: zooboyanthony@aol.com
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Namupa Kafidi Nengola ’96 received the Distinguished Service Award from Luther College at homecoming, October 2013. Lazaro Nyalandu ’96 has been appointed minister of natural resources and tourism for the United Republic of Tanzania. Casey Hallett ’98 welcomed daughter Harper born January 6, 2014. She joins brother, Wray, 3. Tim “Teeg” ’98 and Amy Ruter Stouffer ’99 welcomed son Goodwin James born August 9, 2013. Rochelle O’Brien ’99 is employed in human services and lives in Rochester, Minn. Email: missobrien@hotmail.com Justin Hawley ’99 is a marketing director at EEI. His wife, Katie, is a sales representative. Email: Justin@justinhawley.com
2000s Zach Raulie ’00 has relocated to the Northwest in his position of district sales manager for Winnebago Industries. Zach is responsible for sales of the Company’s Winnebago, Itasca and Winnebago Touring Coach motorhomes, as well as dealer development and training for dealers in the states of Washington, Oregon, Northern Idaho, Montana, Alaska and the Canadian provinces of British Columbia and Alberta. Samuel Harris ’01 is making plans to return to his native Liberia to serve as a medical doctor. Rhiannon Zrostlik Lillquist ’01 and husband Michael welcomed daughter Josette Elyse born August 11, 2013. Rhiannon is a business teacher and cheer coach at Central Springs High School in Manly, Iowa, and Mike is a police sergeant with the Mason City Police department in Mason City, Iowa. Rebecca Bodurtha ’02 is a freelance costume designer and professor at Fordham University.
Alumni News Tony Ede ’02 is senior pastor at First Lutheran Church NALC in Manchester, Iowa. His wife, LeAnn Reamann Ede ’02, teaches 5th grade at the West Delaware Middle School. They have two sons, Carver and Liam, and live in Manchester, Iowa. Email: tonyede@gmail.com Amanda Amenson Nelson ’02 and husband Chris welcomed son Logan Craig born October 25, 2013. He joins brother, Connor. Mandy is a lending manager at Wells Fargo in Des Moines, Iowa. Cole Pederson ’02 and wife Chelsey welcomed twin daughters Grace Marie and Kalei Leena born May 22, 2013. Aaron Seifert ’02 and wife Jamie welcomed daughter Harper Catherine born October 22, 2013. She joins sister, Avery. Aaron works in Precision Ag Sales at Ziegler CAT. Email: seifertad@gmail.com Brion Brady ’03 has been promoted to national sales manager of Winnebago Towables for Winnebago Industries. Brion is responsible for sales of the Company’s Winnebago and SunnyBrook travel trailer and fifth wheel products. Seth Miner ’03 is the associate director of admission at Upper Iowa University. Chastity Walberg Valvick ’03 and husband Prentice welcomed daughter Bliss born June 14, 2013. She joins brother, Vance. Jay Smith ’04 and his wife Emily welcomed daughter Vivienne Elizabeth, born December 4, 2013. Jay is the IT Lead Analyst / Programmer at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn. Stephanie Hill Bernal ’05 and husband Juan welcomed son Gabriel Pablo born January 13, 2014. Christopher Martin ’05 accepted a call to become pastor of Emmons Lutheran Church in Emmons, Minn. and began serving the congregation March 1, 2013. Email: emluthpastor@wctatel.net Krystal Russell McHenry ’05 is a daycare provider. Her husband, Jeff, is an inventory handler. They have two children. Email: kmchenry19@gmail.com
Andrew ’06 and Ashley Young Schryver ’06 welcomed son Hudson Elliot born September 8, 2013. He joins sister, Zoey, 3. Kelly Houser ’07 welcomed daughter Hadley Lee born June 25, 2013. Lynn Noel ’07 was ordained October 20, 2013 at Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church in Humboldt, Iowa. He was installed as pastor of New Vision Ministry, a shared ministry of St. Paul Lutheran Church/Lakota and Bethany Lutheran Church/Thompson on November 1, 2013. His wife, Jane, is an LPN. Email: ljnoel63@gmail.com Joe ’07 and Katie Meyer Tautges ’07 welcomed daughter Shea Lee born February 12, 2014. She joins sister, Ava. Joe is the assistant baseball coach for the Waldorf Warriors. Rachel Anderson ’08 welcomed son Clark Edward born September 16, 2013. Laurel Aderman Grunewald ’08 and husband Kevin welcomed son Logan Carl born October 8, 2013. Email: laurelgrunewald@gmail.com Anthony Mikes ’08 was promoted to senior buyer for Winnebago Industries. Anthony serves as a deacon for the Church of Christ in Fertile, Iowa, is a member and former president of the Waldorf Warriors Booster Club, served as a park commissioner for Forest City Parks and Recreation, and was recently elected to serve on the City Council for Forest City. Abby Baldus Stoa ’08 has joined CL Tel as a staff accountant. Abby and her husband, Kevin, live in Clear Lake, Iowa. Seth McChesney ’09 married Sarah Schlitter on June 22, 2013. Estefana “Stephanie” Gonsalez ’09 is a paraprofessional at the Albert Lea Area Learning Center. She has a son, Gavin, 4. Email: sgonsalez_01@yahoo.com Emily Hedum ’09 graduated from KCUMB College of Osteopathic Medicine in May 2013, and started as a family medicine intern in Billings, Mont. in July 2013.
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Amanda Weiss ’09 married Andrew Irvine on November 2, 2013. Amanda is a marketing and communications specialist for the United Way of Freeborn County, and Andrew is a financial adviser for Edward Jones. They reside in Albert Lea, Minn.
2010s Andre ’10 and Eva Mills Franco ’10 welcomed son Ivan Charles born August 30, 2013. Kayla Clark ’10 is pursuing her masters in social work at Minnesota State University in Mankato, Minn. Email: kayla_1607@hotmail.com Mary Dickman ’10 is a student at Luther Theological Seminary in St. Paul, Minn. Email: mdickman001@luthersem.edu Steven ’11 and Samantha Langerud Boucher ’11 welcomed son Tyler Robert born February 10, 2014. Mark ’11 and Jennifer Keller Jenkins ’07 have three children and live in Forest City. Jennifer has recently been promoted to vice president, residential and consumer loan officer at Manufacturer’s Bank & Trust. Cheryl Schleuger Kurtzleben ’11 joined Clear Lake Bank and Trust as vice president of real estate lending in the Mason City, Iowa office. Cheryl also serves as an executive officer on United Way of North Central Iowa’s board of directors and as a local advisory board member for Consumer Credit Counseling of Northeast Iowa. She and her husband, Bryon, live in Forest City and have four children. Jeffrey Peterson ’11 is a teacher and coach at Clarinda Academy, a placement school for disadvantaged youth. He lives in Clarinda, Iowa. Email: jpete9776@gmail.com Jeremy Dunford ’12 is a supervisor at Ford Motor Company. Email: Jeremy.dunford2222@gmail.com Christopher Parcher ’12 is a marketing communications assistant at Stellar Industries.
Alumni News Terrell Bracewell ’13 is a human resources specialist in the United States Army. He has one son, Zimari, and lives in Hinesville, Ga. Email: rellbracewell@gmail.com
Department of Social Services. She served as her church pianist and organist, Sunday school teacher, choir member and member of the Ladies Mission Circle. Survivors include a daughter and step-daughter.
Holly Gilbertson ’13 is an investment operations specialist at Principal Financial Group in Des Moines, Iowa.
Kenneth Lashbrook ’36 died January 1, 2008. After serving in the Navy, Kenneth was employed by the Osage Post Office until retiring as postmaster in 1979. He was involved in his church, acting as treasurer for 23 years and custodian for five years. He was also very active in Kiwanis and the American Legion. Survivors include his wife, Mildred, three children, and a sister.
Tammie Tolley Tate ’13 is a senior human resources manager at Kenco Logistics. Her husband, Dwaine, is employed in the Orange County Public Schools. They have a daughter and a son, and live in Orlando, Fla. Email: ttate20@cfl.rr.com
Deaths Some of the information below is received by family members or friends of the deceased. Information is also obtained from newspapers and the Social Security Death Index Search. If you would like to report a death of an alumnus, notify the advancement office at (641) 585-8148. Verna Knutson Webber ’21, Iowa’s oldest resident, died December 8, 2013 in Ames, Iowa at the age of 110. She worked as an engineering secretary at the Iowa State College (now Iowa State University). Survivors include three children. Helen Hilleson Olson ’33 died January 18, 2014. She married Raymond Olson ’32 in 1937 and when Ray accepted the presidency of then California Lutheran College in 1963 they moved from Minneapolis, Minn. to Thousand Oaks, Calif. Helen, along with Ray, was involved in founding and shaping many community organizations. Her focus was on the Women’s League and California Lutheran University (CLU) Guild, as well as art and music programs. She greatly enjoyed a 100th birthday celebration in October, receiving a commendation from the City of Thousand Oaks, President Obama, and countless friends and family. Survivors include three children. Rozella Chryst Boman ’36 died January 28, 2014 in Britt, Iowa. Rozella was employed in the Winnebago County Auditor’s office, the Abstract office and the
Wilma Solyst Belsheim ’37 died November 10, 2013. Wilma taught in the Scarville and Le Claire public schools, worked at the Federal Reserve in Minneapolis, the Pentagon in Washington, D.C., and retired after fifteen years as Deputy Clerk of Court of Winnebago County. She taught Sunday school and Vacation Bible School, directed the junior choir, and played the piano for services in her church. She also taught piano lessons for many years. Survivors include three children, including Howard Belsheim ’67, and Joy Belsheim ’70. Maxine Core Eggert ’37 died August 13, 2013 in Charles City, Iowa. Maxine and her husband, Robert, celebrated 68 years together before his death in 2010. She was devoted to St. John Evangelical Lutheran Church, and in the 1980’s wrote a history of St. John’s from its inception. She was a life-long member of P.E.O. Chapter JQ, where over the years she authored many dramatic readings and programs. Survivors include a daughter. Mildred Hyland Drentlaw ’38 died November 21, 2013. Read more in the former faculty/staff news section. Carmen Charlson ’39 died November 3, 2013 in Forest City, Iowa. Carmen started her career teaching rural school. After a few years, she made a career change to office work, employed first at Dr. Safely’s medical practice and then at People’s Natural Gas, both in Forest City. She was active in her church circle and served as church treasurer for many years. Survivors include many nieces and nephews. Lois Bensen Lundgren ’40 died February 9, 2014 in Estherville, Iowa. Lois taught
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school for five years and was a secretary and bookkeeper for various companies including Grocery Clerk, Upper Des Moines, Northern Propane and Block & Tile. She served as a Lutheran church secretary for 30 years and was active in the church ladies groups and the senior citizens center. Most important to Lois was spending time with her family. Survivors include her children and a sister. Arlene Rystad Twedt ’41 died September 18, 2010 in DeWitt, Iowa. Arlene was a homemaker and raised two children before becoming the secretary of Willard School in Des Moines, Iowa. She later went on to serve as secretary of Pleasant Hill Elementary School. Survivors include two children. Clayton Hanson ’42 died October 17, 2012. Clayton served as a B-24 pilot in the U.S. Army Air Corps during World War II, in the Pacific Theatre of Operations. He worked at the Cedar Falls Post Office as a clerk, retiring in 1979, and as an insurance agent for Danish Mutual BrummelMadsen Insurance for 30 years, retiring in 2002. He was a funeral service assistant at the Dahl-Van Hove Schoof Funeral Home for many years, member of the Sons of Norway and volunteer at Cedar Valley Hospice. Survivors include a son and two daughters, including Christa Hanson ’91. Betty Branstad Haugen ’46 died November 11, 2013 in White Bear Lake, Minn. Betty taught two years of elementary school in Lakota, Iowa before marrying her one true love, Burton. She loved to cook and, later in life, one of her passions was missionary work at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Forest City. Survivors include four children. Richard Becker ’48 died July 21, 2013 in Clear Lake, Iowa. Dick served in the U.S. Navy during WWII and was honorably discharged. He and his wife, Marjorie, lived on the family farm for 25 years, moving to Clear Lake in 1979. He worked at various positions in Clear Lake including driver for the Clear Lake School district for several years. Dick loved riding his motorcycle, all kinds of sports, boating, and golfing. Survivors include two children and a sister.
Alumni News Avis Danielson Moody ’48 died February 11, 2014 in Story City, Iowa. Avis was a junior high English teacher, teaching at both Webster City and Ames, Iowa. She enjoyed church activities, gardening, knitting and reading. Her greatest joy was being with her family. Survivors include two children, sister Anna Marie Danielson LeMaster ’46, and a brother. Luther Wigdahl ’48 died September 25, 2012 in Isanti, Minn. Luther began his career with Suburban Radiologic Consultants and Head of Radiology at Unity Hospital. There he held a number of leadership positions over the years until retiring to the Isanti farm, the cabin at Green Lake, and the condos in Naples, Fla. He was dedicated to his wife, LaVonne, of 60 years, and to their children and their families. Survivors include three children. Rena Rustad ’49 died January 20, 2014 in Northwood, Iowa. Rena joined the staff of a new congregation in Arleta, Calif, with responsibilities in music, youth and education. A decade later, she left Calvary Lutheran Church and moved to St. Paul, Minn., where she again worked for the ALC. In Minnesota she managed the synod’s budget and its conventions. She moved to Chicago in 1988 where she was the administrative assistant to the Bishop of the ELCA for 8 years. Rena enjoyed traveling, attending operas and theatre. Survivors include sisters, Margaret Rustad Berge ’45 and Helen Rustad Senne ’60. Darlene Hannam Anderson ’50 died January 14, 2014. Darlene worked at various nursing positions including teaching nursing students and 25 years of school nursing. Besides working full-time and raising her family, she volunteered for the Red Cross, Cancer Society, and Andover Health Care Center. She also taught Sunday school, Logos classes and Vacation Bible School, and served on the church council at Peace Lutheran Church in Andover for several years. Survivors include her husband of 62 years, Robert, three sons, and two brothers. Patricia Janssen Mino ’51 died January 20, 2014 in Armstrong, Iowa. Pat taught in the Forest City, Grant Township, Swea City and North Kossuth school systems,
retiring in 1995 after teaching for more than 32 years. She was an active member of her church and member of the Ladies Guild. She was also involved in the community with activities, including the Federated Women’s Club, Grant Alumni Reunions, daffodil sales for the American Cancer Society and Swea City Library Board. Survivors include her husband, Donald; five children including Kristi Mino Meyers ’78; and two sisters, Arlene and Joyce Janssen Anderson ’55. Delbert Ring ’51 died October 12, 2013 in Nisswa, Minn. Delbert was a Lutheran minister, faithfully serving parishes in Lignite, N.D.; Esmond, N.D.; Albert Lea, Minn.; and Sargeant, Minn. Survivors include his wife, Marvel; and children including Jonathan Ring ’84 and Miriam Ring ’82. Richard Stockseth ’51 died July 23, 2013 in Iowa City, Iowa. Dick taught junior high science and coached football, basketball and track for many years in Humboldt. Survivors include his wife, Yvonne; two brothers; and sisters, Ruth Stockseth Olson ’51 and Lois Stockseth ’60. Irving Njus ’53 died December 12, 2013 in San Antonio, Texas. Irv was ordained on June 21, 1959 and after serving his first parish, he joined the U.S. Army in 1962 and served as a chaplain for 26 years, achieving the rank of Colonel. His last assignment was Command Chaplain for Health Services Command. After retiring from the Army in 1988, Irving was an interim pastor at many Lutheran churches in South and Central Texas. Traveling, grandkids, and ‘visiting’ were Irv’s passions. Survivors include his wife, P. Marian Wold Njus ’52, four children and a brother. Gracia Nilssen Fredriksen ’54 died October 3, 2013 in Rochester, Minn. Gracia taught school in Fairmont and Austin, followed by school in Rochester from 19621995. Survivors include her husband, Arnold Fredriksen ’54; three children; and sister, Connie Nilssen Nyhus ’58. Gracia was the daughter of former Waldorf President, M.O. Nilssen.
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Eleanor Carlson Vulgamott ’54 died January 14, 2013 in Webster City, Iowa. Eleanor taught for three years before marrying her husband, Clifford. They moved to Webster City, where she worked in many retail stores over the years. Survivors include two children; and siblings, Ruth Carlson Feldick ’53, Joyce Carlson Aske ’62, and Luther Carlson ’58. Arlene Godfrey Salz ’57 died August 2, 2013 in Mason City, Iowa. Arlene was a homemaker for many years taking care of her family. In 1962, the family moved to Mason City where they resided for over 51 years. During this time, Arlene worked for Monroe and Roosevelt Middle Schools as a special education paraprofessional for more than 25 years, retiring in 2003. She was involved in many activities at Holy Family Catholic Church and enjoyed reading, camping, stitchery projects, sewing and tending her garden. Survivors include four children. Vernon Holstad ’58 died July 30, 2013. Vernon was a minister for 53 years having served in Nova Scotia, Canada, Portersville, Pa., and most recently for 27 years at Cedar Springs Presbyterian Church in Knoxville, Tenn. Survivors include his wife, Nancy; a son; and five siblings. Beverly Trygstad Gold ’59 died April 10, 2013 in Minneapolis, Minn. Through many years of marriage and family moves, from Chicago to rural Wisconsin, Minneapolis, and California, she taught creative writing to at-risk teens, wrote prizewinning poetry, practiced interior design, taught at the Minneapolis College of Art and Design, exhibited her original wearable artworks, led Minneapolis Institute of Arts docent tours, costumed operettas, and co-owned a retro fashion-accessories shop. Survivors include her husband, Peter, a son, and a brother. Ronald Johnstad ’60 died January 30, 2014 in Bozeman, Mont. During his time at Waldorf College, Ron, along with his brother, Rolfe ’60 and great friends Ron Klipping ’60 and Dick Sansgaard ’60, sang in the Norsemen Quartet. They traveled together, singing concerts in churches and community halls across the United States for the next five decades. He was called to
Alumni News ministry, and upon graduating from Luther Theological Seminary in St. Paul, Minn., he and his wife, Mary Ellen, moved to Montana where he served several congregations over the years. Ron enjoyed adventure and took advantage of the many outdoor sports and activities Montana had to offer. His last parish was Mount Hope Lutheran Church in El Paso, Texas. Ron retired in 1998 and returned to live in Paradise Valley, Montana. Survivors include his wife; two children; his brothers, including Rolfe Johnstad ’60; and two sisters, including Randvig Johnstad Norvold ’64. Mark Carter ’63 died January 9, 2012 in Shoreview, Minn. Mark was a guidance counselor at Brookside School in Albert Lea, Minn. before moving to Cherokee, Iowa where he and his wife, Cathy, owned and operated the Lamplighter Motel. They returned to Albert Lea in 1982, where he taught social studies at Albert Lea Senior High School and Southwest Junior High. He was a member of First Lutheran Church, Cloverleaf Lions, the American Legion, and the Christian Motorcyclists. He sang with the Careyaires for many years, and was also an avid reader, wood carver, collector, and photographer. Survivors include his wife, Cathy, and a son. Jackie Hammer Youngquist ’68 died October 30, 2013. Jackie was employed by Jerry’s Homes and Dowling High School in Des Moines, Iowa and a member of the Lutheran Church of Hope. She loved being with her grandchildren and enjoyed fishing and winter vacations in Florida. Survivors include her husband, Russell; a daughter and son; and two sisters.
Mark Lower ’71 died October 10, 2013 in Milwaukee, Wisc. Mark worked for the G.C. Murphy Company. He continued his work career with the Kohler Company for over 30 years, in various divisions of the company. He treasured his time spent with family and friends, music, playing golf, riding his motorcycle, and “junking” with his wife. Survivors include his wife, Susan, and two sons. Thomas Petersen ’77 died February 4, 2014. Tom was a loving son, brother, husband, dad, “Gramps,” friend and believer who lived his “dash” well. Survivors include his wife, Lynda; two children; his mother; and three sisters. Sheila Peterson Nichols ’80 died November 18, 2013. Sheila worked at the Pender Community School as an aide for 17 years and taught Sunday school. She loved music and enjoyed singing in church. She served on the Board at the Elkhorn Valley Assembly of God church in West Point, Nebraska. Survivors include her husband, Mark Nichols ’80; two sons; her parents; and four sisters. Nancy Cleveland Peterson ’80 died January 20, 2014. Nancy taught for 30 years at Gilbert High School in Gilbert, Iowa and was a dedicated, lifelong teacher who had a passion for history and government. In
Douglas Berns ’82 died September 3, 2013 in Woodbury, Minn. Douglas worked as a CPA with several firms. Survivors include a daughter, his parents, and five siblings. Eric “Razz” Rasmussen ’84 died August 10, 2013. Eric worked for Cedar Valley Medical Specialists as an orthopedic physician assistant, most recently for The CBE Group in Waterloo, Iowa. He was very committed to his wife and girls and was passionate about spending time with friends, sports and playing cards. Eric had a genuine love for people and a gift for making them laugh. Survivors include his wife, Lori; two daughters; his parents; and three brothers including, Jim Rasmussen ’78.
Family Donates Memorial Bench The family of Tad Venzke ’12 gave a memorial gift to the College for a bench and plaque located near the entrance to the admissions office. Venzke passed away the summer after he graduated from Waldorf. He had been crowned homecoming king the fall before and dearly loved his alma mater. The new sitting area offers a peaceful and fitting tribute to him. The plaque reads: “Come sit with me – I am here. Feel the sun touch your face – I am here. Listen to my laughter on the wind – I am here. Feel my spirit all around you – I am here.
Orene Danielson Glantz ’69 died July 28, 2013. Orene enjoyed singing in the choir, Bible study, playing cards, and fishing. Survivors include her husband, Rex, and two sisters, including Mary Danielson Hill ’65. Randall Falk ’70 died June 17, 2010. Randy was a chiropractor in the New Hope community for over 30 years, and was a member of the American Chiropractic Association. He enjoyed hunting, fishing and being outdoors. Survivors include his wife, Gail; three children; his mother; and three siblings, including Corinne Falk Powell ’71.
1992, Nancy received the Iowa Social Studies Teacher of the Year Award, and in 2013, she was recognized with the National American Civic Education Teacher Award for her role in preparing students to become informed and engaged citizens once they leave the classroom. She served as president of the Gilbert Community Historical Society and helped start the Gilbert History Museum. She was the current president of the Iowa Council for the Social Studies. Nancy enjoyed music, reading, and flower gardening. Survivors include her husband, Eric; her mother; sister, Kari Cleveland Kretzinger ’82; and brother, Ole Cleveland ’84.
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Waldorf College 106 South Sixth Street Forest City, IA 50436
FOREST CITY, IA PERMIT NO. 39
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Former Choir Director Adrian Johnson conducts the Alumni Sing-A-Long event at Homecoming 2013.
2014 DATES TO REMEMBER Graduation: May 3 Fall Semester Begins: August 25 Homecoming: October 31-November 2
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