Where Success Means More
Welcome
A Message from Dr. Ken Fisher President of the WLHS Conference Designing Together a Strategic Roadmap Forward King Solomon understood the importance of planning as a shared experience. Solomon wisely observed, “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisors they succeed” (Proverbs 15:22). We need the help of others who can enlarge our vision and broaden our perspectives. In the past year, as we have developed our new strategic Dr. Ken Fisher plan, we have been listening to others and building a network of advisors. The strategic planning process began with careful assessment of critical data and multiple interviews with people who are carrying out our ministry and are invested in it. Parents, alumni, faculty, staff, and conference leaders helped identify key strategic priorities for the next three to five years.
To God the Glory! Planning for the Future Alumni Exemplify Success Recent Grads Bring “Wisco Way” to College Alumni Updates & Reunions WLHS Foundation/In Loving Memory WLHS Good News! 2022 Winter Festival Fall Drama Production WLHS 2022 Dinner Auction
Page 3 Pages 4-5 Pages 6-10 Pages 11-13 Pages 13-15 Page 16 Page 17 Page 18 Page 19 Back Page
Upcoming Events For up-to-date information about events during the spring, visit wlhs.org/calendar.
2021-22 School Theme More than Conquerors (Romans 8:37)
Our Mission Compelled by Christ’s love, guided by the Great Commission, and rooted in God’s Word . . . Wisconsin Lutheran High School prepares young adults for productive, Christ-centered lives in a diverse world.
Our Vision
The WLHS’ Board, other leaders in the process, and administration met in a two-day planning retreat to gain consensus around the issues. We revised our vision statement and developed six key strategic goals. Eight teams of advisors met repeatedly to seek thoughtful solutions and carefully craft initiatives with measurable outcomes that will help us achieve those goals.
Renowned for its distinctive Lutheran values, superior academics, and award-winning co-curricular activities . . .
All that hard work is brought together into a unified planning document that administration and the board will integrate into annual plans. Over the next three to five years, we will continue to communicate the plans, monitor measurable progress, and refine strategy annually as needed.
Wisco students in the hallway of the World Languages wing.
Everything in this process was designed to help Wisconsin Lutheran High School boldly assume its God-given purpose and plan to impact the lives of students and their families for the sake of the Gospel. It is not sufficient just to plan together, we plan in confident faith that God alone can bless our initiatives, as Solomon advised, “Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans” (Proverbs 16:3). So now we commit our strategic plan to the Lord Jesus in faith and with the prayer that God’s will should be done in our ministry in ways that serve his eternal plans. With you in the Gospel’s service,
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In This Issue
Rev. Dr. Kenneth Fisher President of WLHS
Wisconsin Lutheran High School will be the preferred choice for those seeking a comprehensive Christian high school experience in a caring, cross-cultural setting.
On the Cover:
Robot Donation First in the Country
To God the Glory!
Thanks to a generous donation from Argon Industries the school’s Trade and Technology program now has an industrial robotic welding arm. This spring, WLHS students taking metals classes will have the opportunity to work with a $50,000 piece of robotic welding equipment. “Wisco is the first high school in the country to integrate this type of advanced automation into its classes,” says Greg Clement, president and owner of Argon Industries. “Typically, this is something you’d find at the university level.” The robot is made by ABB and is part of a comprehensive SMART (Software, Maintenance and Robotics Training Certification Program) curriculum. WLHS students will be working with manufacturing industry software to program the robotic arm to perform a variety of welding operations. The long-term goal is for students to graduate with the ABB SMART programming certificate and an AWS D1.1 certification. “It’s imperative to introduce young men and women to this sort of technology because programming is the future of today’s manufacturing world,” says Clement. “There are amazing high-tech, hands-on careers in the trades and being able to graduate from high school with a robotic programming and welding certificate will open up a world of possibilities for students.”
"God has blessed our students with so many different talents. Part of our job is to introduce them to a variety of career paths so they can discover what their passion is. The new robotic welding equipment represents another way we can help students find their future." — James Hahm ('93), Trade and Technology Department Coordinator
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Planning for the Future
In 2021, WLHS began working again with outside consultant Alan Zacharias to develop a strategic plan to guide the institution for the next five years. The year-long planning process includes eight Ministry Action Teams (MAT) that are focused on key areas of the high school that are critical to its long-term growth and success. Each MAT includes a committee of professionals from a variety of sectors and industries, along with WLHS constituents. The teams have been studying trends, reviewing data, conducting analyses and research, and examining other institutions in order to develop strategic recommendations. “We want to be the best stewards of God's resources that we can. Taking a step back to have a 10,000foot-view of WLHS and define our strategic initiatives is essential. The plan we develop aligns expectations with actions and resources that support the mission, vision, values, and priorities of the school,” says Rev. Dr. Ken Fisher, president of WLHS. The high school first worked with Zacharias on strategic planning 10 years ago. At that time, WLHS was facing a number of critical issues, including declining enrollment and negative perceptions. “It’s truly amazing how much WLHS accomplished during the past decade and how well-positioned the institution is now,” says Zacharias, president of Zacharias Advancement Consulting. “The high school was dealing with significant challenges that they were able to successfully overcome.” The 2022-2027 strategic plan is currently being finalized and, once approved by the WLHS Board of Directors, will be shared with the WLHS Delegates in June. Initial implementation will begin in May as part of the budgeting process for next school year. “From an outsider’s perspective, I’m particularly impressed with how the institution has evolved since I worked with them last to meet the individual needs of all of its students. WLHS is really a model for other schools in Milwaukee and beyond to emulate,” says Zacharias.
Mission Accomplished The 2013-2018 strategic plan identified a number of imperatives for WLHS. God blessed the plan and WLHS was able to: • Increase academic rigor 4 Developed a clear academic vision
4 Added an Academic Dean and Academic Council 4 Installed new technology infrastructure and added Chromebooks
• Reverse a decades-long decline in enrollment 4 Steady annual growth since 2012 — now 857 students
4 Increased percentages of matriculation from WELS grade schools
• Grow its international program
4 From 15 students all from China in 2012 4 Now 61 students from 19 countries
• Improve its reputation and image
4 Revamped website and expanded social media presence
4 Introduced “Where Success Means More” branding
• Expand and update its facilities
4 Completed Gifted for Praise addition and added air-conditioning
4 Replaced aging boilers and roof sections
• Secure additional land
4 Acquired property for expansion 4 Built student dormitory 4
WISCONSIN LUTHERAN HIGH SCHOOL || Spring 2022
Planning for the Future
As part of its strategic planning process, WLHS updated its vision statement to be student centric instead of institution focused. Vision Statement
Renowned for its distinctive Lutheran values, superior academics, diverse student body and awardwinning co-curricular activities . . . Wisconsin Lutheran High School is where every student finds success to the glory of God.
WLHS 2022-2027 Strategic Goals 1.
Ensure Student Success Increase academic rigor to advance learning outcomes for all students, ensure effectiveness of college and career readiness, broaden co-curricular participation and strengthen partnerships with WLHS Conference Schools.
2.
Deliver Exceptional Student Services Provide exceptional student services, including college and career counseling, mental health services, and academic counseling, that exceed parent and student expectations.
3.
Optimize Strategically Balanced Enrollment Optimize strategically balanced enrollment that successfully serves the greatest number of students possible while reflecting our confessional Lutheran identity and advancing the WLHS Conference.
4.
Strengthen Finances And Stewardship Achieve a sustainable financial model while enhancing a high-performance culture and responsibly managing and expanding school resources.
5.
Model Racial Unity Equip teachers and students to discuss issues of race and diversity from a biblical perspective while modeling an evangelical witness that promotes a Christ-centered culture.
6.
Leverage Strategic Communication Sharpen marketing, communication and branding that increases awareness and demand, enhances the school’s reputation and relationships, and improves the stakeholder experience. WHERE SUCCESS MEANS MORE
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Alumni Exemplify Success The “More” at WLHS means: s
s s s s
More opportunities for students to confidently root their life foundation in Christ More paths to develop life-long character More classes, co-curriculars, and leadership positions to prepare students for college and career More dedicated, caring teachers, coaches, and staff who model Christian values and actions More ways to connect and experience the “real” world and its diversity
WISCONSIN LUTHER AN HIGH
SCHOOL
Where Success Means More
Early Career Success "At Avalon, we do a lot of work for the aerospace and defense industries. I’m specifically in charge of new products and setting up the parts to run through our process. I also oversee current parts and look for ways to reduce scrap and run them more efficiently. I enjoy my work because everyday there are new problems to solve." WLHS Experience: "Freshman year I was part of the first Project Lead the Way® classes that were offered. I took all of the engineering courses that I could during high school and that definitely sent me down my career path of being an engineer."
Brett Raymond (’14) Education: Milwaukee School of Engineering (MSOE), Mechanical Engineering degree Career: Process Engineer, Avalon Precision Metalsmiths, Markesan, Wis.
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WISCONSIN LUTHERAN HIGH SCHOOL || Spring 2022
WLHS Preparation: "The Wisco engineering classes helped a lot with my first-year college classes. Even in some of my sophomore classes, there was information we had covered in high school."
Alumni Exemplify Success
Eric Brown II ('15)
Holly Wintrone (‘16)
Education: University of Wisconsin – Madison, Sociology and Environmental Studies degree; Auburn University, Natural Resource Management master’s degree
Education: Five-year Electrical Apprenticeship (Wintrone is in the first year of her apprenticeship)
Career: Manager, Alabama Department of Conservation and Land Management, Montgomery, Ala., and professional athlete
"As part of my apprenticeship, I get paid to go to school once a week and then am on the job for four days. I usually work under a journeyman electrician who is teaching me new things everyday. I like my career because there’s such variety. I’m not stuck doing one thing over and over again. I have a lot of pride in what I do and I want everything to look perfect. It’s almost like art when you’re bending pipe, making it all line up, and seeing how perfectly everything comes together. The other neat thing is I can drive by buildings all around the city and say that I helped bring light to that building."
Setting Records: Brown was a stand-out cross country and track athlete at WLHS who continued to run at Madison and Auburn. In 2021, he earned a spot to compete at the U.S. Olympic Track & Field Trials in the men’s 800-meter race. Brown is now focused on running professionally and hopes to qualify for the World Championships. WLHS Experience: "Having a Christian high school experience with daily chapel and Christian teachers and coaches really gave me a solid faith foundation. During college, I was able to stay focused on academics and running. I had a really good group of Wisco friends I could talk to and those friends and my teachers and coaches helped carry me through college."
Career: Electrician, Roman Electric, Milwaukee, Wis.
WLHS Experience: "The woods and metals classes I took were my favorite ones and for a while I wanted to be a welder. I came from a small grade school so Wisco was bigger than I was used to but I found it welcoming and friendly."
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Alumni Exemplify Success
Jenna Frey (‘17)
Anna (Grepo) Gross (’17)
Education: University of Wisconsin – Madison, Chemical and Biological Engineering degree (May ’22 graduation)
Education: Wisconsin Lutheran College (WLC), Nursing degree
Internships: Frey recently completed a six-month internship with NASA where she worked on metal matrix composites for the Artemis program, which plans to put the first woman and person of color on the moon. Prior to NASA, she completed three summer internships with Abbott where, among other things, she was involved with their COVID-19 home testing project. In addition, while at UW-Madison, Frey has worked as a research assistant on CRISPR, a project that’s investigating vitamin A and its impact on neurodegenerative diseases. WLHS Experience: "I think WLHS really prepared me in my faith and academics to make the transition to college. My calculus classes with Mr. Gottschalk and physics with Mr. Greschner pointed me in the direction of engineering. Wisco felt like a family to me. It was a close environment with small classes that created lifelong friends and a Christ-centered support system."
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WISCONSIN LUTHERAN HIGH SCHOOL || Spring 2022
Career: Froedtert Hospital, Spinal Cord Injury Unit, Wauwatosa, Wis. "I’ve always wanted to help people in any way possible. Through medicine, I’m able to be there for patients at a point in their life when they’re vulnerable. Just listening to my patients is something they really appreciate. It means so much to me that I’m able to have a positive impact. Even though conditions are tough right now, in my unit, we work hard to support each other and lift each other up." WLHS Experience: "At Wisco, I was exposed to a ton of different backgrounds and life stories. As a nurse working in a large hospital, that’s been extremely helpful since my co-workers and patients are from all over. I’m able to be open minded and better understand people who might not come from the same background as me."
Serving Others
Alumni Exemplify Success
Jon Leach (’94)
Jamie (Coster) Teuteberg (’99)
Education: Martin Luther College (MLC), Bachelor of Arts degree; Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary, Divinity master’s degree; Bethany Global University, Intercultural Leadership, Missions/Missionary Studies and Missiology master’s degree
Education: University of Wisconsin – Green Bay, Human Biology and Exercise Science bachelor’s degree; Middle Tennessee State University, Health Promotion and Exercise Science master’s degree
Career: President, Truth in Love Ministry, Nampa, Idaho "While I’m president of Truth in Love Ministry, first-andforemost I consider myself a missionary and a disciple of Jesus. As part of our work, we equip and empower Christians to share the truth in love with Mormons through witnessing courses, training, and personalized mentoring. We are the largest global outreach to Mormons and, through digital communication, we deliver millions of Gospel messages around the world." WLHS Experience: WLHS was such a blessing because the teachers help bring out your gifts and you learn how you can best serve others. During high school, I had so many opportunities to put my faith in action and that instilled in me the confidence to step forward and share Jesus. I was able to lead a chapel service. I was part of the singing group Inspiration. Even sitting around the lunch table with my friends, we talked and encouraged each other in our faith.
Career: Life Stages Manager, Washington State Health Care Authority, Olympia, Wash. "For the past three years, I’ve been the dedicated staff member from the Health Care Authority working with the Dementia Action Collaborative, a public-private partnership. The Dementia Action Collaborative is focused on implementing the Washington State Plan to address Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias through policy, provider education, and community readiness." Recognition: Teuteberg was one of just 13 selected nationally for the 2021-22 Health and Aging Policy Fellows Program. The program allows professionals to gain the experience and skills necessary to contribute to the development and implementation of health policies that affect older adults. WLHS Experience: "The teachers and friends that surrounded us at Wisco made it a safe place to be a teen. In retrospect, I realize how important it was that we all had the same foundation of morals and values. Mr. Festerling epitomized Wisco. He was always so positive and drew topics back to Christ. We could talk about real life issues with him and that meant a lot to me."
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Alumni Exemplify Success
C.L. Whiteside (‘06) College: University of Wisconsin – Steven’s Point, Physical Education degree
Liz Henke (’10)
Career: Assistant Principal, Wisconsin Lutheran High School, Milwaukee, Wis.
College: MLC, Elementary Education degree
"In my position, I can have an impact on the entire school and its culture. Every single day, I establish connections with kids, show them love, and share God’s word with them. I also have the privilege of helping students work through problems or challenges they’re facing in life." Outreach: "I’m always working to be real with young men and women and show them how God’s word provides a path for them. In 2021 with Time of Grace ministry, I created The Nonmicrowaved Truth podcast. Each week I talk about real-life issues like dating, racism, how to be a friend, anger, and other topics. A few years ago, I wrote #ChampTalk, a print and ebook that encourages, inspires, and challenges through unforgettable, original quotes." WLHS Experience: "My coaches at Wisco really influenced my career path. I saw how they enjoyed their job and that really stuck with me. The coaches were continually giving back and connecting with students and that inspired me to pursue coaching and education as a career." The Nonmicrowaved Truth Podcast How fast do you have to have "IT?” Our culture tells us to find a microwave to speed up the process. C.L. Whiteside, a man who sees and hears multiple perspectives through his life of coaching sports, serving in education, and attempting to conform to Christ, searches for the nonmicrowaved truth. C.L. gets that what’s cool and acceptable now, may not be cool and acceptable tomorrow — and most importantly, may not be what’s best.
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The Nonmicrowaved podcast is available on all platforms.
Career: First and second grade teacher, Risen Savior Christian Academy, Pooler, Ga. "I think my job is absolutely the best! At this age, my students love learning. When they start to understand something, they get really excited and then we build on that throughout the year. I also have the privilege of sharing Jesus with them every day. Some of my kids don’t have a church home so the only time they get to hear about Jesus is in my classroom. It’s amazing that God has put me here to share his word with little ones." WLHS Experience: "I had really good teachers my entire time at Wisco. Mr. Greschner and Mr. Ricke made things fun. I actually use humor in my classroom because of Mr. Ricke. The teachers cared about us as students, they were available to talk, and they were ready to serve in any way. Wisco also prepared me to talk about Jesus. My friends loved Jesus just like I did and we talked about our faith. Now it’s usually the first thing I talk about with people. I ask them what they believe and where they go to church. It opens up a lot of different conversations."
Recent Grads Bring “Wisco Way” to College
In 2018, WLHS established a monthly Viking Christian Leader Award to recognize a male and female student whose actions exemplify a Wisco Way Word and positively impact others and contribute to the school culture.
For a complete list of Viking Christian
Leader recipients, visit wlhs.org/vcl.
Sarah Bitter (’21) Education: Freshman at University of Wisconsin – Madison, Rehabilitation Psychology major, Dean’s List WLHS Experience: "I took a lot of AP classes at Wisco so I came to Madison with 23 credits, which has put me a semester ahead. The amount of work and responsibility the AP classes required helped get me ready for college. Wisco also influenced my choice of a major. As Student Council President, I was involved in the Veteran’s Day event and Our Hands for His Service and that fed my interest in helping others." Viking Christian Leader: I have found a great community of Christians at Wisconsin Lutheran Chapel. They offer cheap home-cooked meals, Wednesday worship, and typical Sunday services, so usually I find myself there three times a week! It has been great to have a place to go to at a large university that feels like a bit of home.
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Recent Grads Bring “Wisco Way” to College
Cat Chan (’20)
Ouray Harper (‘21)
Education: Sophomore at Lawrence University, Appleton, Wis., Neuroscience Pre-med track, Dean’s List
Education: Freshman at University of Wisconsin – Whitewater, Business major, Dean’s List
WLHS Experience: I’m originally from Vietnam and attended Wisco my junior and senior years.
WLHS Experience: The workload at college is similar to WLHS so it’s been easy for me to manage and hasn’t been overwhelming. Wisco is filled with people who are believers in Christ so it’s a great way to make connections and bond when you have that in common.
It’s hard to describe but there’s something in the environment at WLHS. The teachers and students make you feel welcome. I felt like I belonged and, as an international student when you’re new to the country and don’t know anyone, that really matters. Viking Christian Leader: I like to be involved and help and serve however I can. Right now, I’m president of Lawrence International, volunteer for a crisis text line, and last summer I taught first graders as part of the Center for Urban Teaching. One thing I’ve been working on is my courage. At Lawrence, I’ve been using my faith and courage to initiate conversations or group discussions with others.
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WISCONSIN LUTHERAN HIGH SCHOOL || Spring 2022
Viking Christian Leader: I try to follow Christ’s lead in being a helping hand whenever I see a need. I always want to be a Good Samaritan even if it sometimes means that I take a loss.
"And yet I will show you the most excellent way." (1 Corinthians 12:31)
Recent Grads Bring “Wisco Way” to College
Alumni Updates The granddaughter of Beth (Burmeister) Rummel (’66), Courtney Rummel, competed in the 2022 Olympics with Team USA Snowboard Slopestyle/Big Air Team in Beijing, China. Courtney is a native of West Bend, Wis.
Luann (Punke) Rimpel (’75) published “Riding the Rollercoaster of Life: Living with Bipolar/Manic Depression.” The book is for sale on Amazon, Barnes and Noble, and xulonpress.com/bookstore. Luann lives in Illinois with her husband, Tim, and son, Jacob.
Mason Ruh (’21) Education: Freshman at Northern Illinois University (NIU), DeKalb, Ill., Sports Management major, Dean’s List, Ruh received a baseball scholarship to attend NIU. WLHS Experience: Wisco was so diverse that everyone could just be themselves. Having that experience allows you to better understand someone else’s perspective and what they’ve been through. Like Wisco, NIU is diverse so it was an easy transition for me because I’m comfortable with people who come from all different backgrounds. Viking Christian Leader: I realized I missed going to chapel and religion classes every day so I joined Athletes In Action. We meet on Mondays to talk about God’s word and dive into it. When I’m on the pitching mound, I bow my head and pray because I know it’s God who’s given me the ability to play the game. I’m not playing for myself. I’m playing for him.
Hannah (Reinke) Langebartels (’96), Rachel (Rupprecht) Bischoff (’99), and former WLHS faculty member Phil Bischoff all ran in the Ragnar Trail Race in Arizona in November 2021. Hannah and Phil happened to have the same start time and were both wearing WLHS headgear for the race! Jess (Hurlebaus) Hertel ('06) and husband, Ben, were married in an intimate ceremony on Saturday, December 4, 2021. The couple resides in Sussex, Wis. Jess is a Direct Support Professional working with children with special needs at a residential center.
David Pede (’06) was inducted into the WISTCA Hall of Fame in February 2022. This is the highest honor for Wisconsin high school track & field. David was a fourtime First Team All-State distance runner and the 2006 Wisconsin high school track and field athlete of the year.
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Alumni Updates
Chuqee Fletcher (’08) graduated from a certificate program via Cornell University's online Leadership program. The certificate is in Diversity and Inclusion, which equips graduates to build work climates and environments of inclusivity and equity. Chuquee works at Shining Star Christian Schools to create DEI initiatives and implement DEI strategies. Valerie (Gamsky) Jacobsen (’07) and her husband opened their own business last year, Authenticity Coffee Co. In addition to using specialty coffee beans that are responsibly sourced from around the globe, all of their packaging is compostable and eco-friendly. Valerie also is a self-employed writer and editor. Her husband works as a laboratory supervisor. They currently reside in Moncks Corner, South Carolina. Amanda (Pawlak) Schaller (’08) and her husband, Chris, welcomed baby Rylee on November 20, 2020. The Schaller family currently resides in West Allis.
Kevin Worm (’09) received a promotion in December 2021 to become the Mortgage Underwriting Manager at Educators Credit Union.
Tim Bauman ('11) and his wife, Bethany, welcomed daughter, Emri Louise, on October 21, 2021. The Bauman family resides in Elkhorn.
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WISCONSIN LUTHERAN HIGH SCHOOL || Spring 2022
Austin Villa (‘12) married Nikita Abraham on October 2, 2021 at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Cudahy. Alumni in the wedding party included: Emilio Lopez (‘12), Justin Hysi (‘12), Steven Schrank (‘12), Tyler Hallmann (‘12), and Brett Zemplinski (‘13). Also current WLHS students in the wedding party included Izabel Vinney (‘22), Elijah Villa (‘22), and Lilliana Vinney (‘24). Austin is an Engineer for Northwestern Mutual and Nikita is an IT Professional for MGIC. The couple resides in Greendale with their pup Fred. Megan (Leverence) Petersen (’13) and her husband, Quinten, welcomed their first child, Madeline Lorraine, on October 12, 2021. Megan is a teacher’s assistant at Star of Bethlehem and Quinten is the Director of Bands at WLHS. The Petersen family resides in Wauwatosa. Jacob Smrz ('14) and Faith (Loberg) Smrz ('18) were married in an intimate ceremony on January 4, 2022. The couple plans to renew their vows in a larger ceremony in 2023. Jacob works at BMO Harris Bank as a Fraud Analyst. Faith graduated from UW– Stout in December 2021 and accepted a job as Human Resource Manager/Culture Champion at the Lumen Hotel. The couple are relocating to Dallas, Texas. Anna (Grepo) Gross ('17) and her husband, Jacob, were married in West Bend, Wis. on June 12, 2021.
Alumni Updates
In May 2021, Catherine Elle (Van Grinsven) Potter ('17) graduated from Loyola University Chicago on a volleyball scholarship. She married Micah Potter on June 11. 2021. WLHS alumni in the wedding party included maid of honor, Alexis Bertram ('17), Jansen Van Grinsven ('13) and Leif Van Grinsven ('15). The Potters are currently located in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. Catherine is working with Northwestern Mutual as a Marketing and Recruiting Coordinator, and Micah plays on the Sioux Falls Skyforce G-League Basketball team. Carley (Techlin) Witte ('18) and husband, Jonathan, were married in an intimate family wedding on July 31. 2021. Alumni in the wedding party included: Evan Swiontek ('18), Jessica Techlin ('21), Alyssa Techlin ('21), and Emily Techlin ('20). The couple reside in La Crosse, Wis. Carley is completing her Educational Studies degree from Martin Luther College, while Jonathan serves as Director of Bands at Luther High School in Onalaska.
Reunions
Class of 2010 The Class of 2010 held their postponed 10-year reunion (technically 12-year) on Saturday, February 19, 2022.
10- and 25-year Championship Cheerleading Reunion On Saturday, February 12, WLHS celebrated the 10- and 25-year reunions for the 2012, 1996 & 1997 Cheerleading State Championship Teams! Former coaches and cheer alumni gathered to reminisce and share stories from their days as Wisco cheerleaders.
We want to hear from you! Share your alumni updates at wlhs.org/alumni.
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Tax Season As responsible Christians, it’s something we must take care of every year — taxes. As it states in Romans: “This is also why you pay taxes, for the authorities are God’s servants, who give their full time to governing. Give to everyone what you owe them: If you owe taxes, pay taxes; if revenue, then revenue; if respect, then respect; if honor, then honor” (Romans 13:6-7). This is also the time of year that many financial advisors recommend you review your insurance plans, portfolio of investments, and financial plan. Financial experts also recommend using this time to review your estate plan, will and/or trust, and powers of attorney. As a general rule of thumb, a brief overview of your plan on an annual basis is adequate. However, every three to five years a deep dive review should be completed. This will ensure that your legal documentation is still in alignment with your goals and intents, and that tax laws, or major life changing events, such as a marriage or birth, are taken into consideration. In previous Contact articles, I discussed a few of the opportunities that are available to you that have changed over the past few years. These include: Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCD), or how to change a beneficiary on an account. Additionally, there are many other charitable tools that have been developed to assist with your giving wishes.
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Class of 1939 Ruth (Jeske) Huwiler January 18, 2022
Class of 1966 Klaus Hartter January 30, 2022
Class of 1942 Edward Nimmer December 19, 2021
Class of 1967 Sue TenBrink January 19, 2022
Class of 1943 Dolores (Wodke) Collins February 7, 2022
Class of 1969 Jane (Gilbert) Schwichtenberg December 13, 2021
Class of 1949 Joyce (Schulz) Sellers January 14, 2022 Class of 1950 Lorraine (Dallmann) Brushaber October 22, 2021 Rachel (Rosenthal) Jurco June 13, 2021 Class of 1951 Janis (Heese) Erickson December 9, 2019 Elaine (Smith) Robinson January 20, 2020 Class of 1955 Janice (Behling) Selvick September 27, 2021
Mark Tebo January 11, 2022 Class of 1972 Donald Timm June 1, 2021 Jane Stremlow December 8, 2021 Thomas Stark December 12, 2021 Class of 1973 Carol (Schlotter) Mack November 24, 2021 Class of 1976 John Haack November 29, 2021
James Cox January 22, 2022
Class of 1981 Robert Baas January 13, 2022
Class of 1956 David Mierendorf December 18, 2021
Class of 1989 Dawn (Caira) Klauer December 20, 2021
Class of 1957 Judy (Schinschke) Johnston December 31, 2021
Class of 1990 Michael Paige January 1, 2022
The Foundation website, wlhs.org/ foundation, is also a great place to start.
Class of 1958 Carl Koether July 1, 2021
Ryan Jeske January 28, 2022
May God continue to bless you, our WLHS family, as we work to impact our students on their earthly journey and towards their heavenly home.
Arlene (Eggleston) Yanke November 19, 2021
Class of 2002 Matthew Hoover October 25, 2021
Class of 1961 Pamela (Doerr) Dehling November 2, 2019
Former Faculty Judith Zirbel (1967-1969) January 24, 2022
If you haven’t approached these subjects yet, have questions on them, or are considering them, I’d love to meet and answer any questions you may have. If you have already completed the process and wonder if there is a way to be more impactful, I’d love to discuss options with you.
Eric Ruh
In Loving Memory
Mr. Eric Ruh is the Director of Planned Giving at WLHS.
WISCONSIN LUTHERAN HIGH SCHOOL || Spring 2022
Class of 1962 Diane (Zarling) Horban July 4, 2021
Academic Top Ten Wisconsin Lutheran High School is pleased to announce the academic top ten for the Class of 2022: 1. Ingrid Buschkopf (St. John's Lutheran School, Milwaukee) 2. Madison Sipe (St. John's Lutheran School, Wauwatosa) 3. Madison Vasatko (Trinity Lutheran School, Waukesha) 4. Jeton Cesaj (Shkoder, Albania) 5. Alexandra Chaffin (Wisconsin Virtual Academy, Muskego) 6. Grace Daley (Star of Bethlehem Lutheran School, New Berlin) 7. Grace Schneider (St. Paul's Lutheran School, Muskego) 8. Liao (Leo) Wang (Beijing, China) 9. Kwangje (Michael) Sa (Rancho Palos Verdes, Calif.) 10. Benjamin Doerr (Homeschool, Garden Homes Lutheran Church, Milwaukee)
Art Awards
WLHS Good News!
Historic Wrestling Tournament
Audreyanna Scott ('22) (pictured left) and Olivia Ramirez ('23) (pictured right) made history when they competed at the first-ever WIAA Girls State Wrestling Tournament in La Crosse in January.
Viking-2-Viking Viking-2-Viking returned with WLHS alumni Claire Fons ('06) and Samantha Keihl ('07) sharing their healthcare experience with juniors and seniors. Fons is an RN in the Outpatient Neurology Clinic at Froedtert & MCW Eye Institute and Keihl is the Director of Cardiovascular Technology Program at MATC.
Reading Buddies
Four WLHS students won recognition for six pieces of art in the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards. Four of the pieces received Gold Key Awards – the most Gold Key awards in recent history for the WLHS Visual Arts Department. The Gold Key pieces will be on display at the Milwaukee Art Museum now through March 20 in a show that recognizes the best student artists in Wisconsin. • Hands by Sarah Lee ('24), Gold Key Award (pictured above) • 1986 - Japan by Lucy Li ('24), Gold Key Award • Self Portrait by Sam Qiu ('23), Gold Key Award • Opening My Eyes by Sam Qiu ('23), Gold Key Award • The Aging Process by Sarah Lee ('24), Honorable Mention • Drowning by Annabelle Nault ('24), Honorable Mention
The Wisco football team once again partnered with area Lutheran grade schools for its Reading Buddies Program. Participating grade schools included: Good Shepherd's, Garden Homes, Mt. Calvary, Risen Savior, St. Paul's - Muskego, Christ-St. Peter, Lamb of God, St. John's - Milwaukee, St. John's - Mukwonago, St. John's - Wauwatosa, and St. Marcus.
Academic All-State Honors The Wisco boy’s cross country team earned Academic All-State honors for the 2021 season. AllState honors are earned when a team qualifies for the WIAA State Meet and has a combined team GPA of 3.85. Team members included Jacob Alejandro ('23), Silas Ebeling ('23), Sam Goede ('24), Quincy Kehoe ('25), Joey Merrill ('23), Michael Miller ('22), Nathan Weber ('22), and Nick Wendl ('23). WHERE SUCCESS MEANS MORE
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Winter Festival 2022
Festival 2022 was a galactical success! Under the theme "Out of this World," the week's activities included pajama, cowboy and alien, neon, and throwback dress-up days. Spirit week included lunchtime activities, and a competitive dodgeball tournament. At the pep rally cheer and dance teams performed, classes competed for the loudest battle cry, and basketball and wrestling teams were introduced.
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WISCONSIN LUTHERAN HIGH SCHOOL || Spring 2022
At the 2022 Winter Festival, Elija Garcia (St. Lucas Lutheran School) (pictured middle) was crowned festival king, escorted by Adrianna Berger (Wedgewood Park School). Festival court included Tony Jones (St. John's Lutheran School, Wauwatosa) (pictured left) escorted by Celena DeBerry (Frank Lloyd Wright School) and DeAngelo Pate (Risen Savior Lutheran School) (pictured right) escorted by Jaiah Hopf (St. Marcus Lutheran School).
Fall Drama Production For its fall drama production, WLHS presented Clue on Stage, directed by Miss Tanya Tranberg. After a successful three-day weekend, more than 1,600 people attended this hilarious comedy. The double cast allowed more of our talented students to act in this award-winning play. Special lighting, sound effects, and make-up brought the entire show together. Thanks to parents, students, and everyone who came out to support the show!
WLHS is owned and operated by the following congregations joined together as the WLHS Conference Abiding Word Apostles of Christ Atonement Centennial Christ, Big Bend Christ, Milwaukee Christ, Pewaukee Christ the Lord Divine Peace Fairview Faith Garden Homes Gethsemane
Good Shepherd’s Grace, Milwaukee Grace, Waukesha Jordan Loving Shepherd Living Word Messiah Mt. Calvary Mt. Lebanon Nain Pilgrim Redemption Resurrection
Risen Savior St. Jacobi St. James St. John’s on the Hillside St. John, Lannon St. John, Milwaukee St. John, Mukwonago St. John, Wauwatosa St. Lucas St. Marcus St. Mark St. Matthew St. Paul, Cudahy
St. Paul, Franklin St. Paul, Muskego St. Peter St. Philip Salem, Cramer Street Salem, 107th Street Siloah Star of Bethlehem Trinity Victory of the Lamb Woodlawn Zion, Hartland Zion, South Milwaukee
WLHS Contact © is the official alumni publication of the Wisconsin Lutheran High School Conference. President: Dr. Kenneth Fisher; Editor: Monica Baer (‘87); Design/Layout: Carolyn Sachs; Contributing Writers: Dr. Kenneth Fisher, Monica Baer (‘87); Photography: Attention Era Media, Chuck Cairns, Tony Just Photography, Leanne Ross, Moments and Memories. Contact us with comments or questions at 414-453-4567, ext 2292, or via e-mail at carolyn.sachs@wlhs.org. Please notify Abby Rasmussen (‘12) at 414-453-4567, ext 2012 or abby.rasmussen@wlhs.org if you would like to be removed from our mailing list, change your contact information, or have contributions. All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. TM used by permission of Zondervan.
WHERE SUCCESS SUCCESS MEANS MEANS MORE MORE WHERE
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Where Success Means More 330 North Glenview Avenue Milwaukee WI 53213-3379
You’re Invited To
Build One Another 2022 Dinner Auction Saturday, April 9 Wisconsin Lutheran High School
For more information, visit wlhs.org/events *Black tie optional
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