Guided by Faith In Their Own Words: 2023 WELS National Conference on Lutheran Leadership Participants

Dr. Joan Prince ('71) Presenter

For decades, Dr. Prince, who was inducted into the WLHS Hall of Fame in 2005, has been a distinguished educator and respected public servant. A native of Milwaukee, Prince was the first Black recipient of a bachelor’s degree in medical technology and a master’s in clinical laboratory sciences with a specialty in hematology and flow cytometry from the University of WisconsinMilwaukee. She also earned her Ph.D. in urban education with a specialty in medical science education from UW-Milwaukee.

In 2000, she returned to her alma mater in a professional capacity, serving as vice chancellor for 20 years. In that role, she was the chief administrator for the Divisions of Global Inclusion and Engagement and Partnerships and Innovation with responsibilities as the chief inclusion officer.

In addition to her work at UW-Milwaukee, she’s held innumerable civic and governmental positions. For example, she was a senior advisor to the State Department and Public Delegate, serving as a United States representative to UN committees and related organizations such as ECOSOC, UN Women, UNESCO, and UNICEF.

Prince has also been a steadfast supporter of WLHS and, throughout the years, has lent her considerable talents to the high school in a variety of ways.

Daniel Reinke Student

"I want to pursue the pastoral ministry so learning more about Lutheran leadership was certainly relevant to me. The conference reminded me that I can lead by example in the high school setting. I realized, as an upperclassman, having integrity, showing compassion, and guiding others in their spiritual walk can be especially meaningful to those younger than me."

Norah Stroh Student

"After the panel ("An Honest Conversation with WELS Teens”), the teens who spoke were approached by various teachers and pastors. We were asked questions about how to start youth groups, how to reach out to teenagers, and how teens want to be included in church today. It truly struck me that our teachers and pastors care deeply about reaching out to their congregations. They are flexible and willing to try new things, even when it may be out of their comfort zone."

Sarah (Horn) Proeber ('07) Digital Projects Manager, WELS Communication Services

"An event like this is monumental and pivotal in our synod's undertaking of changing culture within our congregations to be better equipped for our role — whatever it may be, whatever it may look like — in ministry. Ministry never stops, nor should it. Our mission field is right outside the door. It's your new neighbor; it's in line at the grocery store; it's sitting on the airplane; it's everywhere. This conference provided solutions and new ideas for congregations to utilize for their members and surrounding communities. It takes the work of not only our trained called workers but also our church leaders and our motivated members — with our synod’s support.

What a blessing it was to be a part of something so impactful for our synod. It was amazing to be able to help in the planning and logistics of the event, as well as the communications and promotions surrounding the event, with the goal of bringing as many lay and called workers together to learn, explore and grow in God's kingdom."