broadcaster

the magazine of Concordia University, Nebraska winter 2013-14 volume 91 no. 1

HEAR the call of CHRIST OUR CAPTAIN

from the

On Founders Day, Rev. Brad Birtell 88 reminded the Concordia community of the special leadership characteristics of those marked by the cross of Jesus Christ.

presidents desk

We are not leaders if we are not followersof Jesus. Thats the simple, profound message Birtell shared.

With Birtells permission, I share highlights of his inspiring chapel message. He began: A father was filling out the application form for his daughter who was seeking entrance to a very exclusive college. He came to the question on the form asking whether his daughter was a leader. In honesty he wrote, No, but shes a good follower. A few weeks later a letter arrived notifying him that his daughter had been accepted. At the bottom of the letter the dean had written, since the entering class of 500 has 499 leaders, we thought there ought to be one follower. Birtell challenged us, based on Colossians 3:1-17, to realize leadership is followership and as followers we: Are clothed with the compassion, kindness, humility, genuineness and patience of Christ Bear with and forgive one another as we have been forgiven by Christ Work for peace as members of the body of Christ Do all in the name of Christ and so glorify God

The same message is carried in the theme of this Broadcaster edition, Hear the call of Christ our Captain, a line from the hymn O Church Arise by Keith Getty and Stuart Townend. If Concordias students are to be equipped to lead, they first must be equipped to follow. To be a leader in the church and world is to be a follower of Jesus Christ, our Captain. Following the call of Christ our Captain turns the worlds paradigm of leadership upside down. For followers of Christ, the strength of leadership is found in the shield of faith and belt of truth that enables us to stand against the devils lies and to reach out to those in darkness. Followers of Christ seek, above all, to serve Him and those they are called to serve. As you enjoy the stories of followership in this edition, receive my thanks for your partnership that helps Concordia fulfill her mission and enables our students to respond to the call to follow Christ our Captain.

Brian L. Friedrich President

Broadcaster Staff
Editor Dan Oetting 87 Writers Adam Hengeveld 09 Jacob Knabel Danielle Luebbe Leslie Petrovski Designers Erin Wineman 14 Mary Masur 14

contents

meet the general

University Administration
President & CEO Rev. Dr. Brian L. Friedrich Provost Dr. Jenny Mueller-Roebke Executive Vice President, CFO & COO David Kumm Vice President for Enrollment Management and Marketing Scott Seevers Assoc. Vice President for Institutional Advancement Kurth Brashear, Esq. Dr. Dennis Brink, Lincoln, Neb. Mr. Robert Cooksey CO 84 GR 90, Omaha, Neb. Dr. Lesa Covington Clarkson 80, Woodbury, Minn. Rev. Dr. Brian Friedrich, Seward, Neb. Rev. Eugene Gierke, Seward, Neb. Rev. Keith Grimm, Omaha, Neb. Mr. Barry D. Holst 86, Kansas City, Mo Mrs. Jill Johnson, Seward, Neb. Mr. James Knoepfel CO 87 GR 99, Fremont, Neb. Mr. John Kuddes, Leawood, Kan. Mr. Lyle Middendorf, Lincoln, Neb. Mr. Timothy Moll 89, Seward, Neb. Mrs. Bonnie ONeill Meyer, Palatine, Ill. Mr. Paul Schudel, Lincoln, Neb. Mr. Timothy Schwan 72, Appleton, Wis. Rev. Dr. Russell Sommerfeld, Seward, Neb. Dr. Andrew Stadler, Columbus, Neb. Mr. Max Wake, Seward, Neb.

pulling together

The Wyoming credo of talk less and say more works just fine for Major General Luke Reiner, the man in charge of that states military department. But what he does say is worth a listen. page 4

A student-led initiative to fight malaria set high goals for funds to be raised. And then they doubled that amount. page 8

Board of Regents

bold for christ

page 10

Principal Tom Wrege is on a path to make sure his teachers can teach and his students know the love of Christ.

spies of a kind
page 14

An innovation from the 1980s has a permanent spot in Concordias teacher education program.

General Information cune.edu 800 535 5494 Alumni Relations alumni@cune.edu Institutional Advancement development@cune.edu Graduate Studies gradadmiss@cune.edu Undergraduate Admission & Campus Visits admiss@cune.edu Athletics athletics@cune.edu Bookstore cunebooks.com Career Services careerservices@cune.edu Center for Liturgical Art liturgicalart@cune.edu Marketing Office marketing@cune.edu

Concordia Scene

18

Athletics 28 Alumnotes 43

broadcaster

on the cover
Rebecca Monnier 14 and Louisa Mehl 14 were leaders for one of the most successful student-led charitable efforts Concordia has ever witnessed. Their accomplishments are described on page 8.

The Broadcaster is published by Concordia University, Nebraska and distributed to 50,000 alumni, faculty, staff, pastors, businesses, parents and friends of the university in all 50 states and over 15 foreign countries. 2014 Concordia University, Nebraska

b meet the b
I
4

n the summer 1984 when Major General K. Luke Reiner 86 was a private and still a college student, he made a mistake. Stationed at Fort Benjamin Harrison near Indianapolis, Reiner was serving his turn as charge of quarters, answering the phone per protocol until a woman called thinking she had the wrong number.

general

The young private politely suggested she redial the number and when the phone rang again immediately thereafter, he answered saying, Oh, still the wrong number? The caller? Not the lady concerned about dialing incorrectly, but the post command sergeant majorthe highest ranking enlisted soldier on the base.

story: L. Petrovski photos: Wyoming National Guard

Do you know the film, We Were Soldiers? That really gruff old sergeant major whos with the colonel who never smiled? That was him, Reiner explains.
He was pretty grumpy with me. He called my first sergeant who talked to my commander who talked to mywell, I dont know how many times I got chewed out that day. Though the mistake was small, Reiner incorporated that lesson into the leadership philosophy thats shaped a career thats taken him from his days as an enlisted soldier in the Nebraska Army National Guard to his current position as Wyomings adjutant general, responsible for 3,000 Army and Air National Guard members, the Wyoming Veterans Commission and the Oregon Trail State Veterans Cemetery. The lesson is, he says, you always do everything to standard every time. It doesnt matter what it is, you always do it to standard. Do it right. 6 distinctions to display on his uniform since his days as an undergraduate, he didnt come to Concordia intending to build a career in the military. The son of missionaries Ken 60 and Dar Harley 62 Reiner, Luke grew up in Nigeria and matriculated at his parents alma mater, assuming he would follow in their footsteps. But God works in his own mysterious ways, he says. At the behest of a friend, he enlisted in the Army National Guard as a sophomore, thinking it would be fun. You get exposed to other experiences in life and that changes your direction. Concordia doesnt have a history of graduating future generals, so youd be forgiven if you didnt see him on his way to that role during his college days. In hindsight, however, the ingredients were obviously there.

The lesson is, you always do everything to standard every time. It doesnt matter what it is, you always do it to standard. Do it right.

Though hes garnered two stars and an array of ribbons and

His leadership qualities arise from his self confidence, respect for others and his ability to work well with others, says Dr.

Stan Obermueller, one of Reiners professors at Concordia. And he got things done. Hes very disciplined. Obermueller is not surprised in the least at Reiners success or the type of leader that hes become. He definitely fits the mold of a servant-leader, says Obermueller. Hes someone who would feel that his role as a commanding officer is to enable those serving with him to do their jobs in an exemplary way. He would want to give them the tools and support they need be successful. At Concordia Reiner graduated with distinction, earning two degrees, a bachelor of science in accounting and a bachelor of science in education. He married his college sweetheart, Devonna Buesing 87 Reiner, shortly after receiving his commission from the University of Nebraskas Reserve Officer Training Corp program, and transferred to the Wyoming Army National Guard, entering the Active Guard and Reserve program in 1991. Reiner rose quickly, receiving increasingly powerful assignments. Plainspoken and thoughtful, he developed a leadership style that combined values from his upbringing with lessons learned on the job, where he paid close atten- At times its tion to what worked and what didnt. To this day, he watches how other people handle difficult situations, looking for leadership techniques and ideas to adopt. Conversely, he says, some of the best leadership lessons you learn are from people doing stupid stuff and sayin, I dont ever want to do that!

Likewise, one of the potential leadership problems of a large organization is to be cut off from the day to day work of the people in your charge. To avoid isolation from rank and file personnel, he makes it a point to walk around the building speaking with troops and to visit them in the field. He also conducts twice-yearly town hall meetings to connect with the soldiers and airmen that he calls the heart of the organization. One of my leadership philosophies is that when youre part of an organization, you need to participate in the organization, he explains. I work hard to set the conditions that everybody has a voice and that voice is heard. At times its really hard for voices lower in the organization to be heard at the top, but there are great ideas there. You have to work to make sure theyre heard. Reiner sees leadership as a collaborative effort, likening it to a team. Collectively the team analyzes what went right, what went awry and how to improve. The general doesnt have to be the one with all the answers.

The talk less and say more and be tough but fair credo of Wyoming, the Cowboy State, seems like an especially good fit for Reiner.

heard at the top, but there are great ideas there. You have to work to make sure theyre heard.

My personal view is, if you take the time as a leader to listen and collaborate when you have the time, he says, when the day comes when you really hard dont have the timeduring a crisis or for voices lower in the battletheres a trust from those who are following you that you will make the right organization to be decision and they know how you think. Times of crisis and battle are also, of course, what separates Reiners burden of leadership from other CEOs. Preparing and training troops in the Wyoming National Guard is whats necessary for lives and country to be protected.

As head of the Wyoming Military Department, he is where the buck stops when it comes to ensuring that the states Army and Air Guard soldiers and airmen are ready to deploy overseas and to respond to natural disasters in the state. His is also the office that ensures that Wyomings 56,000 veterans get the care and advocacy they need. The purview of his responsibility, he explains, goes from recruiting the force to training the force to deploying the force to eventually retiring and taking care of the force. The scope of his job requires communication, and a lot of it. He spends a great deal of time with his direct reports talking about goals and expectations, reinforcing success and problem solving. I would think that in many ways its comparable to being the CEO of any large organization, says Reiner.

Injury and death are also part of the job. And when soldiers die, military leaders offer what comfort they can to the heroes spouses and families.

Those, Reiner says, are really hard days. And thats why, among other reasons, theres no such thing as casual training. Thats why being demanding and making sure things are done to standard matter so much. Its why non-commissioned officers, the backbone of the military, dont let things slide. The stakes and responsibilities are very high, says Reiner. You equip and train to get the mission done and come home safely. You never deploy someone unless theyre completely trained, unless theyre fully equipped, and unless theyre very well led. Thats the standard.

Louisa Mehl, Rebecca Monnier and Rev. Dr. Brian Friedrich congratulate the Concordia community for anti-malaria fundraising achievements on campus.

story: D. Luebbe photo: D. Oetting

pulling
S

together
Student leaders unite campus in anti-malaria efforts
itting on a low rock wall in the courtyard of a Tanzanian hotel, Louisa Mehl and Rebecca Monnier were feeling anxious. Out loud, they were dreaming big, imagining all they could do to raise $25,000 to help the Lutheran Malaria Initiative. Inside, both were worried. We didnt want to tell each other we were both really nervous about raising the $25,000, says Monnier. We didnt have any momentum yet. It was scary. Their trip to Africa in the summer of 2012, provided by LMI, had shown them the impact of malaria. It further inspired them. But they hadnt raised a dime yet and they had little experience fund raising. The first thing Monnier and Mehl had to do when they returned to Concordia was figure out a plan. They turned to campus administrators and faculty to help them get started. The people we talked with were professors and administrators, and they were not only interested in investing in LMI, they were also interested in helping college students find the value in helping others, says Mehl. With the help of generous donors, they were able to start the year with $10,000 of their $25,000 goal already raised, which gave their confidence a much-needed boost. What came next was a combination of low-cost, high-impact marketing and a successful big event, Fight the Night, which saturated the campus with awareness of the project and gave them more momentum. Sidewalks and windows were covered with messaging. Bed nets, a key defense against malaria-bearing mosquitoes, were hung all over campus as a visual reminder of what LMI was trying to accomplish. The idea was that even if people could not come to our big event, Fight the Night, they would still learn about LMI, says Monnier. The event raised $5,000. Even more importantly, according to Monnier, people were engaged.

The campaign widened to parents and others, bringing in more funds. By January of 2013 they hit the $25,000 mark and during the spring the campaign spread further within home churches. They hit $40,000 in late February and when the campaign concluded in September this year, the effort topped $50,000. That amount was matched by Ruth and Arne Sorenson for a grand total of just over $100,000. Monnier and Mehl point to their team of fellow students and a generous campus for credit.

We had a core group of five or six people who were with us at every event and meeting, Monnier notes.It just seemed like when we needed help, people were there, says Monnier. If you ask people enough, theyll start to join in. And once people saw we were serious, they wanted to help. Reflecting on the project, Mehl has a similar reaction. I learned that a leader needs to be able to ask for help, Mehl says, A leader does not need to be a part of every little detail in order for the project to work. At the same time, a leader needs to be available to support and give advice where needed. Looking back, the accomplishment of raising $50,000 is still hard for me to believe, Mehl says. We are painfully aware of how much of it happened in spite of us, not because of us. We witnessed how so many people were invested and cared about helping those in Africa suffering from malaria and bringing Christs love to them. This is the true beauty of it, I think. It is a broad demonstration of many people coming together to make a great thing happen. Praise God for all that he has done through all of us, and to Him alone be the glory! 9

BOLD
10

for Christ

story: D. Luebbe photos: D. Oetting

11

When he graduated from high school, Tom Wrege had no idea that hed end up a teacher, much less a successful principal. He joined the Air Force to help him figure out what he wanted to do with his future.
I always found a Lutheran church where I was stationed, Wrege says. And I was able to truly understand service to God and country. He enjoyed his time in the Air Force; for a brief period, he considered making a career of it. But teaching ran in Wreges blood. His father taught public school and his mother taught at a Lutheran school. There were also teachers who had left lasting impressions on him during his schoolboy days at St. Marks Lutheran School in North Tonawanda, N.Y. Education was a dynamic part of the life of my family, recalls Wrege. At home, mom was always in a teaching mode that helped instill in me a desire to want to improve and learn. My dad would take me to help him set up his outdoor education weeks, which taught me a passion for Gods creation and majesty in the outdoors. After leaving the military, he decided to go back to school and received his bachelors degree from Concordia in 1985. Wrege became an elementary Lutheran school teacher. At the second school where he taught, Wreges uncle was the 12 principal. His uncle told him he thought Tom had what it took to be a great principal. The compliment made him briefly consider the prospect, but it wasnt until his next school that he participated in a program called School Leadership Development offered through The Lutheran ChurchMissouri Synod. The program trains teachers for administrative positions. That was when he first felt he was being called to be a principal. It took me awhile to understand my desire to be an administrator, says Wrege. I absolutely loved being in the classroom with the children.

becoming a principal
Once he took his first call as a principal, he knew immediately it was a good fit, despite the anticipated learning curve. As a very shy person, I had to be able to overcome that to build my confidence as a leader and a follower, as well as recognize the importance of team. Wrege also felt he was an ineffective speaker, a struggle he

had to surmount in his new role.I have always had a confidence that I could do anything with Gods help, says Wrege, who kept praying and plugging away. Within teaching and administration, I knew that public speaking would be a rule, not an exception. So I watched others I noticed were successful and effective as speakers. Now at the helm of Trinity Lutheran School in Utica, Mich., Wrege is serving in his third call as an LCMS elementary school principal. His faith and persistent optimism helped him become not just a good principal, but one of the best. This year he was one of 61 recipients of the National Distinguished Principal Award as presented by the National Association of Elementary School Principals. He was the lone LCMS honoree, and one of only five selected from private schools.

I am a risk-taker, Wrege agrees, in the sense that one often has to try something he believes in and be willing to learn from the failures and grow from the successes. Wrege stresses that the glory in all successes is Gods. Credit for the distinguished principal honor? That goes to Trinity, according Wrege. Great parents. Great support from the church. Great teachers and staff. He apparently just works there. But the work is good. I have the best job in the world because there is no better place than to be in Lutheran education today, right in the forefront of sharing Jesus for six hours, in carrying out the Great Commission, in discipling and equipping in the faith, and in working hard to help our Lutheran schools thrive.

work at trinity utica

Christ is the central part of the entire program of education at Trinity, according to Wrege, and his job is to help teachers deliver. Great teachers will make your school, says Wrege. Tom is a very spiritual leader who wants heaven full and hell empty, says Bruce Braun, the LCMS Michigan District education executive. He sets a great example for teachers and encourages them to show care for students and families. He allows teachers to focus on their skill set and takes great care to do school administration well so they can just teach. One of Wreges goals is to make sure his teachers have the tools they need to succeed, beyond physical resources. For Trinity this has meant building a positive culture and a relationship of trust between colleaguesteacher to teacher and between administrators and teachers. Its not a once-ayear effort either. I watch for signs of culture erosion or dysfunction, Wrege explains, I watch for and listen for trust in our conversations, our activities and in our program of education. Julie Kowalke, assistant principal at Trinity, points to another factor in Wreges success as an administrator: Boldness. One of his great strengths is that he is a visionary who is not afraid to move forward, and bring those around him with him, says Kowalke. That boldness has been influential. Trinity has seen 37 percent growth since 2008, going from 388 students to 535. Theyve started a talented and gifted program, responded to parent needs for before- and after-school care, updated the curriculum and schedule and conducted a $2.3 million capital campaign to update facilities.
Tom Wrege, principal of Trinity Lutheran School, Utica, Mich., and his wife Keven (Nienhueser 85) attend an awards banquet in Washington, D.C., on Oct. 25 held for the 2013 National Distinguished Principals. (courtesy photo)

13

SPIES

14

of a KIND

Since 1984, veteran teachers have been brought to campus to play a special role in Concordias education program.

On campus to help teacher education students get ready for student teaching, Daniel Cattau, Scott Fogo, Abigail Kuehn 12 and Joanne M. Krafft, are all from Faith Lutheran Middle and High School, Las Vegas, Nev.

story: D. Luebbe photos: D. Oetting

15

Running out of material. Knowing where to stand. How to start class. Repeating yourself. Students who wont talk. Students who talk too much. Repeating yourself.
Such are the worries of teacher education students before taking full charge of a cooperating teachers classroom, one of the final steps of a teacher education program. The first day of student teaching was a little overwhelming, says Rachel Werner, a senior currently student teaching at St. Paul Lutheran School in Concordia, Mo. All the professors and all the classes try to prepare you for this moment, but you dont know what its really about until youre in the thick of things. Beth Pester, assistant professor of education, explains that the novelty and excitement start to wear off after a few weeks into Student Teaching I. Student Teaching I eases students into teaching in local classrooms. Theres a lull, Pester says. They start to realize, Wow, this is hard work. Yes, its tough work and its about to get tougher. Student Teaching II is looming, a time when many of the teacher education students will move, sometimes across the country, to take on a full slate of classes to teach. Through the Joshua and Caleb Programs, student teachers get two wall-to-wall days of answers, tips and solutions from experienced teachers pulled straight from the classroom. The Caleb Program arrived first on campus. In 1984 three secondary school teachers from Baltimore, Md., visited with Concordias latest batch of student teachers to talk about teaching. What they knew was valuable. As current and veteran teachers, they could offer an insiders view of the profession. They were spies of a kind. And as with Joshua and Caleb in the book of Numbers, their message was fortified by faith. In Numbers the Israelites are described as sending twelve spies into the Promised Land, the Land of Milk and Honey, to observe the enemy and gather intelligence. Ten of the spies came back with a bad report, claiming their enemies were giants and the kingdoms too well defended to defeat.

The first day of student teaching was a little overwhelming. All the professors and all the classes try to prepare you for this moment, but you dont know what its really about until youre in the thick of things.

Just before they make that move, the Caleb and Joshua Programs kick inCaleb for those who will teach high school and Joshua for elementary education. If this were a war movie, this is the point where the lieutenant tells the new soldiers to keep fresh socks on and not to salute while on patrol. Heavy on practical stuff, light on theory. After weeks of Student Teaching I, the fledgling teachers have questionsa lot questions about how to get things done in the classroom. 16

Two of the spies, Joshua and Caleb, said that the land could be taken because God would be with them. The veteran teachers and administrators who meet each semester with Concordias student teachers are the hopeful, faithful spies who come back to report that even though teaching can be hard and full of giants, with Gods help all the difficulties can be overcome. God has called you to this profession and God will bless you, Pester says, describing a recurring theme. He will get you through this.

Secondary teacher education students listen to a Joshua Program presentation by Joanne M. Krafft, teacher at Faith Lutheran Middle and High School, Las Vegas, Nev.

According to a study by the University of Pennsylvania, 40-50 Moulds, professor of education and one of the founders of percent of new teachers leave within the first five years, and the Caleb Program. There are papers to grade, teams to attrition rates of first-year teachers have increased by onecoach, plays to put on. And teaching, Moulds explains, is third in the past two decades. With programs like Joshua and also an active ministry of the Gospel. Its important to work Caleb, teachers have a better shot with student teachers to understand how at overcoming the problems andTeaching, Moulds explains, they are ministers of Gods grace. frustrations that might otherwise to Werner, one of the most scare them off. is also an active ministry of According helpful pieces of advice she received from This is the single most important the Gospel. Its import- the Caleb Program before heading to her thing we can do for teachers, says student teaching assignment was a reant to work with student minder Kevin Kromminga, Concordias that this is not about me. education professor in charge of teachers to understand I teach for God and my students. God Student Teaching II. how they are ministers of gave me this gift and desire to teach. I We try to specialize in the areas should use it for Him, explains Werner. Gods grace. of our students concentration; That was probably the best advice to rewe bring in a special education member because there are definitely times teacher if we have a student with that I forget this and start becoming overwhelmed with all a special education focus, or early childhood if we have an the lesson plans and grading. Remembering that this is all for early childhood concentration. the students really puts things into perspective and helps me Not only are the young teachers better equipped to survive, get through the day. they are also shown how to thrive in ministry. Teaching is a ministry of activity and works, says Dr. Russ 17

GENERATION FIVE
As she passes in front of Founders Hall, freshman Lindsey Warneke often looks to the have been like when this building was the of the buildings age or historical importance to Concordia, but because of her heritage. top floor windows and wonders what it must entire school. She doesnt just wonder because

There can be a downside to having parents who are alumni, as Warneke learned. When she visited Concordias campus as a high school student with her parents, the campus tour was reminisced with old college friends, now on staff, who they bumped into along the way.

in danger of being derailed as her parents

Warneke represents the fifth generation of her family to attend Concordia. It all started with her ancestor, Paul Frese, a member of the first graduating class of 1897. One of Freses

She eventually told the campus guide to press

on, leaving her parents behind. Theyll catch around.

up, she explained. They know their way This school year a total of 30 freshmen students are following in their parents footsteps. View a list of legacy students at cune.edu/legacy.

daughters, Florence, was also a student within the first years Concordia officially admitted family have attended Concordia.
story: A. Hengeveld photo: D. Oetting

women. In all, 18 members of her extended

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Lindsey Warneke poses on the

top floor of Founders Hall, the same building that once housed her ancestor, Paul Frese. Warneke plans on earning her diploma in 2017, 120 years after Frese earned his.

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Concordia moves up in college rankings

Concordia moved up three spots in the 2014 U.S. News & World Report College Rankings, Best Regional Universities Midwest category, making it the 11th consecutive year Concordia has been ranked in the top tier of the annual report. Were proud we consistently rank in the top tier year after year, said Dr. Jenny Mueller-Roebke, provost of the university. However, were still most proud of providing our graduates with an excellent Christian education that equips them to succeed in the classroom and in their lives after college. Based on the first tier ranking and overall score, Concordia also compares well to schools in other categories. Concordia Nebraska is the highest ranked school in the Concordia University System. Enrollment increase Concordias total student enrollment number for 2013-14 is the largest in its 120 year history. A total of 2,206 full- and part-time students are enrolled, an increase of 115 students over last year. The growth was notable in graduate enrollment, where the university saw its largest increase in students seeking advanced degrees since 2010.
Full-time undergraduate enrollment has remained relatively steady at 1,126 students on Concordias Seward campus.

achievements
students
Emily Barz, Daniel Gibson, Ben Hinckfoot, Louisa Mehl, Rebecca Monnier, Jessica Polk, Hillary Snyder, Hannah Uden, Molly Ann Wells and Alicia Wosepka taught English and American culture to students at Buena Vista Concordia International School in Shenzhen, China over the summer. Sarah Bowe, Tasha Burrill, Kelli Claassen, Josh Duncan, Erin Hanna, Emily Hemphill, Nicole Hill, John Jostes, Hayley Koeritz, Paula Leibbrandt, Mary Masur, Alyssa McAfee, Elise Ortmeier, Alison Schuerman, Jennifer

student & faculty

Smith, Dane Stahr, Jessica Wagner and Erin Wineman traveled to Holland and Germany for an art/communication study tour. Karen Burgess, James Clausen, Kelly Jacob, Sarah Langness, Jordan Miller, Nathanael Pfeil, Brianna Rerucha, Jennifer Reynolds, Megan Sparling and Luke Wohlgemuth were selected to perform in the fall 2013 honor recital. John Cartier was accepted to Santa Clara University School of Law in California. Mitchell Cherney completed a summer internship in pharmacy in Seward. Kara Einspahr, Erika Neugebauer and Alexander Scheiber traveled to Haiti as part of a volunteer mission trip which included analyzing the feasibility of establishing a fish farm. Erica Ellis completed a summer research internship in analytical chemistry at Hills Air Force Base, Ogden, Utah. Marcus Gubanyi, Luke Kaldahl, Jacob Krings, Nehemiah Langness, Jon Richters and Ann Schmidt participated in the ACM North America North Central Regional Programming Contest. The two teams of three

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Students teach in mainland China

Ten Concordia students taught English and American culture to grade schoolers at Buena Vista Concordia International School for three weeks this summer. BCIS is located in Shenzhen, China, and is the first school in mainland China sponsored by The Lutheran ChurchHong Kong Synod. Led by professors of education Dr. Vicki Anderson and Dr. Bernard Tonjes, the Concordia students developed original curricula for each of the summer camp days. During the camp, the Concordia Nebraska students each taught individual classes for up to eight Chinese students at once. The camp gave the college students invaluable experience with cross-cultural teaching and also the opportunity to talk further about Christianity as questions arose. They shared the Easter and Christmas stories with students from China, explaining both the cultural and religious ties the holidays carry. The coolest thing I think was the day after telling the kids the story of Jesus and his death and resurrection, they asked to hear it again. They loved it, said senior Hannah Uden of Kenesaw, Neb. Even though they may not have fully understood it, you could see God working. That was our purpose on the trip, to tell the story of Jesus, and He worked in and through it.
Hannah Uden works with young students at an English language camp held in Shenzhen, China, over the summer (courtesy photo).g

students wrote programs that solved nine real-world problems within a five-hour deadline. Andy Hammes completed a summer research internship in epidemiology and biostatistics at the University of Colorado-Denver with Concordia alum, Dr. Tasha Obermueller 97 Fingerlein. Thomas Hatesohl completed a pharmacy internship over the summer in Clay Center, Kan. Paige Hemmer taught six weeks of ESL in classrooms in Tomisato City, Japan. Brianna Loeck, Sandra Pena, Jessie McCarty, Shannon Mikrut, Evan Kucera and Michael Tewes traveled to Guatemala on a mission trip in October. While there, the group collected data for community needs, provided educational sessions on health topics for local village women and offered VBS to local children. Sydney Olson completed a summer internship in chiropractic medicine at South Central Chiropractic in Sutton, Neb.

Jacob Reifenrath completed a summer internship in physical therapy at Avera Sacred Heart Hospital in Yankton, S.D. Nathan Von Rentzell completed a summer research internship in forensic science with the Colorado Bureau of Investigation. Three Concordia students, Laura Ruskamp, Amy Mayhall and Sarah Heins, were recognized at the fall conference of the Nebraska Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance as Concordias Health and Human Performance Departments NAPHERD students of the year. Sara E. Simmons completed a summer internship in nursing at Ridgewood Rehab and Care Center in Seward. Alex Stepanek completed a summer internship in physical therapy at Grand Island Physical Therapy. Dr. Kathy Millers family class (SOC 331) conducted oral history interviews with family members and some local residents. Prof. Bryan Moore and some of his theatre students worked with them to help perform these stories at JDs Coffee Shop, Heartland Assisted Living and at the Lied

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Seniors research math, genes

Brad Schick

Two Concordia seniors took part in Research Experiences for Undergraduates, summer research programs, in 2013. Acceptance to the REUs was competitive and provided paid internships with room and board. Biology major Brad Schick participated in an REU as part of the National Science Foundation at Texas A&M University in the biophysics department. Schick spent his time researching the plant Arabidopsis thaliana, a small, fast-growing plant that can be quickly analyzed. Schick and his advisers studied the reactions of the plant to pathogens. The results will help breed plants with stronger resistance to insects, viruses or harsh environmental conditions. Schick presented his findings in a final paper for the department at Texas A&M. However, what he can share outside of his research community there is limited.

Senior Center in December. As a part of presentations, the class also presented some of their reflections and invited those present to share some of their life stories Concordias theater department presented Shakespeares The Winters Tale in November.

Arts Midtown in Omaha in May. The paintings in the exhibition reflected Bockelmans interest in exploring the static tension of the square in contrast to the diverse activity of light and color. Dr. Ron Bork, professor of education, was selected to serve on an National Council for the Accreditation of Teacher Education team in December at the University of Phoenix-Utah in Salt Lake City, Utah. Concordias Faculty Showcase Recital was held in September. The program featured a variety of musical styles from Bach to 20th century pieces. Performers included Adrienne Dickson, adjunct faculty, voice; Sarah Farr, music instructor, voice; Elizabeth Grimpo, assistant professor of music, piano; Ryann Johnson, adjunct faculty, oboe; Michael Keelan, music instructor, violin; Charles Ore, professor emeritus of music, organ; and Wendy Schultz, adjunct faculty, trombone. Dr. Joel Helmer, chair of the social science department, established a trap and skeet team, which will compete at and host collegiate shooting events. The team will begin regular practices and competition in the spring. Dr. Joel Helmer, professor of geography, established a chapter of Gamma Theta Upsilon, a geographic honor society, at Concordia. The society strives to support geography knowledge and awareness and to further professional interest in the field. Dr. Jamie Hink, adjunct professor of history, finished her doctorate in August 2013 at Northern Illinois University. Her dissertation is titled Out of the Mouths of Babes and Sucklings: Children and Youth in the Great Awakening. Dr. Jennifer Janousek, health and human performance department chair and Dr. Kelly Wheeler, adjunct professor in the masters of public health program, led a health mission trip to Guatemala in October.

faculty

Dr. Vicki Anderson presented a session on reading strategies for English as a Second Language students at the MIDTESOL 2013 conference in Lawrence, Kan., on Oct. 12. It was titled Reading Between the Lines: Inferring Meaning for Improved Comprehension. Dr. Jeffrey Blersch, professor of music, has completed a composition commissioned by the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod for use at their 2014 National Worship Conference. The piece is an arrangement of Philipp Nicolais hymn How Lovely Shines the Morning Star, scored for brass quartet, organ, timpani, congregation and choir. Commissioned compositions include O Sing to the Lord (a setting of Psalm 98 for choir, congregation and organ) commissioned by Zion Lutheran Church, Wausau, Wisc. and Hymn Concertato on O Morning Star for choir, congregation, brass, timpani and organ, commissioned by the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod for their 2014 National Worship Conference. In summer 2013, Concordia Publishing House released Blerschs Musica Sacra, vol. 8 (14 hymn preludes for organ) and Partita on Voices Raised to You We Offer for organ. Accepted for publication (to be released spring 2014), were Hosanna, Blessed is He (SATB choir, childrens choir and piano), This is the Feast of Victory (choir, congregation, brass and organ) and Ride On (SATB choir and piano).

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James Bockelman, professor of art, showed new oil paintings at Modern

Schick said the results of his work are to be kept a secret because agriculture is a competitive business. I actually was told that I cant say anything about it otherwise theyd sue me, Schick said. According to Schick, the experience taught him a lot about how actual research is done. He also learned he prefers to work out in the field with plants instead of in a lab. It helped me figure out what I want to do, he said. Schick plans to work in agriculture and plant breeding in the future and looks forward to beginning graduate study in the fall. Marcus Gubanyi Marcus Gubanyi participated in an eight-week REU at South Dakota State University and presented his research at a conference in Washington, D.C., on Oct. 27 and 28. He also shared his experiences with Concordia students and faculty in November. Gubanyi, a math and computer sci-

ence major, focused his research on numerical simulations of the Schrdinger equation. The equation was developed by Erwin Schrdinger in the 1920s and describes how the quantum state of a system of particles changes with time. It has a lot of applications, Gubanyi said. Gubanyi spent part of his time running matrices through a computer program called MATLAB. He created some of the computer codes himself. Gubanyi said the majority of his research was centered on comparing numerical methods, such as the finite element method. I got to see a lot of new things Id never seen before, Gubanyi said. I ended up with the exact same results as a scholarly article. Gubanyi said the numerical approach to the Schrdinger equation is a newer approach. This research is really breakthrough research, he said, But not a lot of people have reproduced it. Gubanyi graduated in December and is applying to graduate schools across the Midwest for entrance in the fall.
story: Emily Taylor, originally for The Sower photos: D. Oetting

Jessica Kite, adjunct music instructor, was elected as a Nebraska State Officer for Handbell Musicians of America, Area 8. Concordias 4th of July float in the Seward parade earned the Mayors Award for the festivals theme, It Takes a Team. Ben Limback and family, Randy Baack and family, Rachel Miller and family and Daneen Kovar Theye decorated the float. Bryan Moore, professor of theatre, wrote an essay, Pushing Without Shoving: Ethics and the Emphasis of Target Participation in TSJ Institutes, which was published in the anthology, Staging Social Justice: Collaborating to Create Activist Theatre, published by Southern Illinois University Press. Annette Oliver, assistant professor of education, has an editorial, Connecting with Non-Connected Families, appearing in the fall 2013 edition of Issues in Christian Education. Lutheran Education Association presentations were giventhis fall by Beth Pester, assistant professor of education, Bernie Tonjes, associate professor of education, Ron Bork, professor of education, and Amanda Geidel, assistant professor of education. Don Robson, professor of art, had his work titled Preservation Series Number 6 accepted for inclusion in the Northwest Art Centers Americas 2013: All Media exhibition at the Hartnett Hall Gallery on the campus of Minot State University. Eighty artists submitted a total of 239 works for consideration. His piece was among 31 selected. Dr. Leah Serck, emeritus professor of education, was given an award in October for Lifetime Volunteer Leader from the GFWC Womans Club

in Seward. The award recognizes Sercks volunteer work with the Plum Creek Childrens Literacy Festival, as well as various other organizations in the community. Joshua Smith, assistant professor of art, presented his first faculty art exhibition in October. The exhibit was titled Traces of Place: Recent Sculpture by Joshua Ray Smith. Smiths work is inspired by the influence of space and location on human perception. John Snow, associate professor of mathematics, had a paper titled Lattices of Equivalence Relations Closed Under the Operations of Relation Algebras accepted for publication by Algebra Universalis. Dr. Daniel Thurber, professor of English, presented his paper, The Brooding, Agitated Consciousness in Modern Novels: Tracing Dostoevskys Raskolnikov, at the 11th International Conference on New Directions in the Humanities, held in June 2013 in Budapest, Hungary with nearly 2,500 scholars from over 31 countries in attendance. Dr. Laurie Zum Hofe earned a Ph.D. in English from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln in August 2013. The University A Cappella Choir was selected for participation at the 2013 Nebraska Music Educators Association conference in Lincoln, Neb. The choir was selected by NMEA officers. Dr. Kurt von Kampen, professor of music, conducts the University A Cappella Choir, which was accompanied at the NMEA conference by Paul Soulek, director of parish music at St. John Lutheran Church and School, on organ and piano.

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24

misterium

Concordias Handbell Choir performed as part of the first-ever virtual handbell ensemble. A total of 440 bell ringers from 26 states and six countries recorded sound clips of the composition Misterium by James Meredith. The clips were then merged into one performance and published online in September. The Misterium project required ringers to submit technically accurate recordings, but also asked ringers to make their videos creative. The Concordia Handbell Choir made video clips featuring its ringers silhouettes in front of the stained glass window in the Weller Hall chapel. We decided to give our video recording the unique look provided by the artwork created by the Center for Liturgical Art, said Jessica Kite, director of handbell choirs. The choir recorded at 7 a.m. on a Saturday morning to keep outside noise levels as low as possible. Perfect submissions took careful practice, time and patience, Kite said. The completed work can be viewed on YouTube by searching Virtual Handbell Ensemble Misterium. The Concordia Handbell Choir includes 14 ringers and is one of two auditioned handbell choirs at the university. The choirs perform in campus chapel, local worship services and concerts.

story: J. Hammond photo: D. Oetting

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Homecoming highlights

Top row: Three and out. The Bulldogs dominated Nebraska Wesleyan University 19-3 thanks to a defense that allowed the Prairie Wolves to convert only three third downs in the entire game. Middle row, left: Staff member Charles Gebhardt has his face painted at the homecoming fair held in the fieldhouse Saturday morning of homecoming. Center: Dr. Kurt von Kampen and his daughter, Andrea, a junior, sing at the talent show held Wednesday evening of homecoming week. Right: Seniors Erin Wineman and Joel Newton acknowledge the applause as they are announced as queen and king of Concordias homecoming festivities. Bottom row, left: The 2013 inductees to Concordias Athletic Hall of Fame are introduced at halftime. Right: Sally and Rev. Larry Krueger, Church Leadership in Outreach Award recipients, speak at the reception for alumni award winners.

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photos: D. Oetting and A. Hengeveld

homecoming

honorees

his year the Concordia Alumni Association honored five individuals and four couples for their service and accomplishments:

Paul Soulek 07 Young Alumnus of the Year Award

Glenn 95 and Susan Ebel 95 Fluegge Partners in Mission and Ministry Award

Dalton 59 and Deanne Kappler 60 Noack Partners in Mission and Ministry Award Rev. Larry and Sally Stewart 78 Krueger Church Leadership in Outreach Award Gale Suhr 87 Lay Worker of the Year

Dr. Vern Harnapp HS 54 CO 58 Lifetime Service Award

Eldon Neben HS 53 CO 57 Church Worker Alumnus of the Year Jean Gardner Honorary Alumna Award Henry and Leona Oppel Friends of Concordia Kari Saving 05 Keithley Basketball

Athletic Hall of Fame members inducted in 2013:

Molly Engel 05 Christensen Cross country and track and field T.J. Kloster 02 Track and field

Robert Pflieger Faculty athletics representative and booster club member (faculty member 1956-59, 1963-99) 1981 volleyball team 35-8 record; Berniece Jones, head coach

Read more about the 2013 athletics and Alumni Association honorees at cune.edu/homecoming. Nomination forms may also be reached via that page. 27

biting
Coach Winter and his staff oversee a rebuild of Bulldog football
story: J. Knabel photos: D. Oetting

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back
the

If Shawn Rodehorst were a golf shot hed be an albatross, three under par for a single hole, the bird you might see once in a generation on the course. Between the fall and spring seasons of his sophomore year, something clicked and he transformed from a good golfer to one of the GPACs elite. Merely halfway through his collegiate career, the Kearney, Neb., native is already rewriting school record books.

bulldogs albatross
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Fifth-year Concordia head football coach Vance Winter stood before the Bulldog Booster Club in the week following the conclusion of the 2013 season unfulfilled and unsatisfied.
As with so many head coaches, he can be his own toughest critic. His feelings after a 7-4 season werent all that different than the emptiness after his first year on the job as head coach, a three-win season in 2008. But the reasons were. Im not ready for it to be over, Winter said just a few days after Concordia pummeled Briar Cliff University 45-7 in the final game of the season. The disappointment set in because Concordia came up, in all likelihood, two winsperhaps just a few plays, reallyshort of securing its first appearance in the NAIA playoffs since 2001. We have It stings to come so close. Some reflection, however, shows just how far the program has come since Winter received the promotion to head coach prior to the 2009 season. Concordia was coming off a rough 1-9 season. would say the two main reasons for Concordias rise are the change in attitude and work ethic that was instilled by the players and coaches when we entered the program in 2010, and the level of talent that the coaches have been able to recruit over the past four years. The plan Winter and his staff had laid out prior the 2009 season had come to fruition. They had been successful in pulling in recruits who were eager to work hard and ready to buy in.

We knew it would take a little time be- football program. Of course, constructing a plan is one cause we were a long ways from competthing. Putting that plan into action is itive in 2008, Winter said. We were obanother. Winter had been given the controls of a team that viously hopeful that [the turnaround] would happen sooner. lost many games by lopsided tallies in 2008. I was a part of that 2008 season as defensive coordinator and knew firsthand how far we had to go. As tough as those losses were on the field, they also figured Since going 11-24 in his first 35 games as head coach, Winter and the Bulldogs are 12-7 over their last 19 games. This season they raced out to a 6-0 start and peaked as high as No. 14 in the NAIA coaches poll. Five years after being regularly stomped on by the big boys of the conference, the Bulldogs were biting back and sat tied atop the league standings. into recruitment battles. Winter and his staff were on the hunt for talented, high-character young men. Recruits were going to have to look beyond past on-field struggles when considering the Bulldogs.

We have always been very intentional about creating a culture of family, accountability, unselfand strong work ethic within always been ishness our football program, Winter said. very intentional about These four things have been the staple of our program in the past and are creating a culture of just as significant in our program now. family, accountability, As our overall team depth and talent improved, the wins and the comunselfishness and strong have petitiveness of our program have also work ethic within our improved, but we are a family first and foremost.

This was a very long and slow process, and credit for this years team can be given to players and coaches as far back as 2010, said senior defensive lineman Dylan Heithoff. I 30

One of the teams most important recruits in recent seasons hails from The Sunshine State. During my recruitment process I didnt really care about the teams previous records, said junior quarterback Von Thomas. I wanted to meet the coaching staff. We stayed in contact for

Coach Vance Winter speaks to the team after the first game of the 2013 season, a 30-15 victory over NCAA D-II William Jewell College.

a while which was a good thing. It showed that they were interested as much as I was. Our coaches were very approachable. They made me feel welcome on my visit which is hard for someone from Miami to adapt to. Key additions also came from within Nebraska, such as Heithoff (Elgin, Neb.), electrifying returner Derek Blessing (Ogallala, Neb.), offensive lineman Josh Powell (Kennesaw, Neb.) and tight end Josh Slechta (Kennard, Neb.). The likes of Blessing and Heithoff saw past the win-loss records. Something special was being built. We all knew that the football team was struggling and was in a rough place, Heithoff said. But Coach Winter remained optimistic, claiming that the only way to go was up and that big changes were being made during the season and offseason. The positive energy from all of the coaches was contagious, which allowed me to become sold on the direction of the football program. Concordia saw immediate, but gradual progress in its results on the field. Winters first team (2009) went 3-7, followed by records of 4-7, 4-7, 5-6 and 7-4 in 2013. The major turning point seemed to come on Oct. 13, 2012, when Concordia

upset then No. 11 Northwestern, 17-16, on homecoming in Seward for the teams fourth-straight win. The momentum spilled over into 2013 with the Bulldogs bursting onto the national scene. They hosted an NAIA national game of the week, garnered the GPACs Defensive Player of the Year (Darnell Woods) and brought back memories of past Bulldog glory. They bought into the challenge of turning a program around and making a difference, Winter said of his 2013 seniors. We sold these guys on the quality of the education, the special campus community that Concordia has, and the opportunity to turn a program around. I am grateful to each and every one these guys for their commitment and loyalty throughout the process because there have been moments where there had to be some doubts Temporary uncertainty aside, Concordia football has found a winning path. Said Winter at that same Tuesday booster club outing, I dont think theres any doubt about where were going. And whos to disagree with the coachs toughest critic. 31

fall

sports summaries

Chris DeFeyter

Von Thomas

Mens Soccer
Bulldog mens soccer followed the lead of senior star Nathan Douglas to a third-straight season of double-digit victories. Concordia enjoyed its most successful season in conference play in the 14-year history of the GPAC as it broke a school record with six GPAC wins. Head coach Jason Weides squad finished the 2013 campaign with records of 10-9 overall and 6-4 in GPAC action (fifth place). The season ended on Nov. 6 with a 3-2 conference quarterfinal loss at Northwestern. Douglas shined once again, getting loose for a career high 14 goals as he shattered the school record for career goals. His 43 goals over the last four seasons are 12 more than the second-highest total in program history. The native of Winnipeg, Canada, was named GPAC all-conference for the third-straight season. Junior midfielder Chris DeFeyter and sophomore defender Sean Doran, both second team all-GPAC choices, joined Douglas with all-conference honors. DeFeyter had a breakout season with six goals while Doran served as an anchor on the backline for the second-straight season.

Football
Behind a stellar defense, the Concordia football program enjoyed its first winning season since sharing the GPAC title in 2001. The Bulldogs began the season at 6-0 and rose as high as No. 14 in the national coaches poll. They then lost the next four before finishing strong with a blowout of Briar Cliff in the season finale on Nov. 16. The win pushed Concordias final record to 7-4 overall. Senior safety Darnell Woods headlined the long list of postseason honors among individuals. Woods became the first Bulldog to ever receive the GPAC Defensive Player of the Year award. Woods piled up a career high 88 tackles and served as a major reason for Concordia finishing the season with the NAIAs top-ranked pass defense. Head coach Vance Winters squad also placed four players on the conferences first team as Woods and fellow seniors Derek Blessing, Dylan Heithoff and Langston Jones garnered spots. With several key players returning for 2014, including quarterback Von Thomas (school record 2,508 yards of total offense in 2013), the Bulldogs expect to make another run at the programs first playoff appearance since 2001.

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Jordan Donohoue

Mariah Schamp

Womens Soccer
The program underwent transition with Greg Henson taking over as head coach late in the summer. Henson rarely had his full complement of players as injuries to key performers limited the teams depth. With star senior Jordan Donohoue moving to defender late in the season, Concordia came on strong down the stretch. The Bulldogs won three of their final four regular-season games and then advanced to the GPAC semifinals after winning a penalty-kick shootout in the quarterfinals. Their loss in the semifinals bumped their final record to 9-9-2 overall. They went 5-5 in conference play to garner the No. 6 seed in the conference tournament. Concordias 27 goals allowed were the fewest since the GPAC formed in 2000. Donohoue represented Concordia on the GPACs first team. Junior forward Ashlie Sklenicka garnered second team all-conference honors after finding the back of the net seven times. Leading goal scorer Rachel Mussell (nine goals) earned 2013 Capital One Academic All-District 3 recognition in addition to honorable mention all-conference laurels.

Volleyball
With an influx of talented recruits, Concordia volleyball improved its win total from 10 in 2012 to 17 in 2013. Second-year head coach Scott Matteras squad relied on the 1-2 attacking punch of sophomore Claire White and freshman Paige Getz on the outside along with the steady defensive play of junior libero Carli Smith. The young team, which at times featured four freshmen on the court at once, showed rapid growth, especially late in the season when they played competitively in their final two matchesboth four-set losses on the road to No. 6 Midland. Concordia went 17-14 overall (first winning season since 2007) and 5-11 in GPAC play, positioning itself as the No. 7 seed in the GPAC tournament. The program will carry plenty of momentum looking forward to the 2014 campaign. Junior middle Mariah Schamp, the teams leader in blocks (91) and aces (42), earned second team all-conference honors. Both White (team high 339 kills) and Smith (team best 491 digs) received conference honorable mention laurels.

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Amy Ahlers

Ben Sievert

Golf
Both head coach Brett Mullers mens and womens squads received a big boost from newcomers during the fall golf season. Most notably, the Concordia women jumped from 11th in the GPAC at the end of last season to No. 5 in the conference at the close of the fall 2013 slate. Freshman Amy Ahlers (Albion, Neb.), named GPAC Golfer of the Week on Oct. 9, has led the way with an 85.29 average and eighth-place individual standing in the conference. Fellow freshman Kayla Krueger (Aberdeen, S.D.) is 17th heading into the springs two additional conference qualifiers. The women carded a two-round GPAC total of 366-374740. On the mens side, the Bulldogs have gotten solid play from junior Shawn Rodehorst (79.38 avg. in 8 rounds) and freshman Josh Hinrichs (79.75 avg.). Rodehorst has been limited because of a hip injury, but is still within striking distance of another all-conference honor heading into the spring. Freshman Jared Knoepfel (83-78 161, T15th) is currently Concordias highest-ranking individual in conference rounds. As a team, Concordia is in ninth in the GPAC after shooting 317-345662 at the first two league qualifiers.

Cross Country
With junior Ben Sievert serving as the front-runner, Bulldog mens cross country reached the national championships for the 12th time in 13 seasons. Sievert, a native of Frankenmuth, Mich., placed 19th at the national championships on Nov. 23 to earn his first cross country All-America honor. He also finished third in the GPAC to grab all-conference recognition for the third-straight season. As a team, the Bulldogs finished third at the conference meet a year after taking the GPAC crown. On the womens side, head coach Kregg Einspahrs squad placed fifth in the GPAC. The young team had difficulty replacing 2012 All-American Sarah Kortze but showed growth throughout the season. Sophomore Kim Wood emerged as the teams top runner for most of the season. Junior Renee Williams enjoyed a breakout performance at the GPAC championships and took 15th place in reaching all-conference territory. Sievert and Williams were joined on the all-conference teams by seniors Beau Billings and Hayden Hohnholt and sophomore Jordan Potrzeba.

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forward
When Nathan Douglas arrived on campus in August 2010, he joined a program that had only four wins the year prior. When he first got here there were a lot of players on our team that feared opponents, coach Jason Weides said. They feared quality competition and didnt necessarily picture themselves at the same level with some of the better teams. Hes been a part of that culture changing within our program. Four seasons later, Douglas impact on the program is undeniable. He now owns Concordias career scoring record with 43 goals, surpassing the previous record of 31 held by Bernie Ochoa (2000-02) and Aaron Skipworth (2008-10, 2012). With Douglas providing much

impact

of the firepower, Concordia has had three-straight seasons of 10 or more wins, a record that puts Concordia in the top tier of conference schools. Regarded by many within the GPAC as the leagues top striker, Douglas resume includes three all-conference honors, Capital One Academic All-America distinction, and Daktronics-NAIA Scholar-Athlete recognition. He helped instill hard-working values and beliefs and that winning mentality within the program, Weides said. I think hes the type of player that brings out the best in teammates. A really good player does that. Theyre not just good. They help the people next to them become better.
story: J. Knabel photo: D. Oetting

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nine to

a room
story: A. Hengeveld courtesy photos: Suzanne Riedel and Ann Wachsmann

37

All nine girls had their space to study in one room with nine desks, a piano and an altar for devotions. Sue Zann Denton 69 Van Luchene left, is honored with a bridal shower.

In the room the nine girls shared as sleeping quarters, Joyce Fullner 69 Altwine rests on one of the two bunk beds.

uzanne Retzlaff 69 Riedels clothing hung on a bar across the backseat of her familys yellow 1964 Ford. Riedel and her mother chatted excitedly on their way from Pierce, Neb., to begin her sophomore year at Concordia Teachers College in 1966. Riedel knew what her likely classes were going to be, but as a sophomore woman she didnt know where she would be housed. Well, she did know that it wasnt likely that shed live on campus.

Concordias number of fulltime undergraduate students had outgrown the campus dorms. To lighten the housing load, sophomore women were placed off campus in the homes of professors, staff and Seward community members.

I was a little bit taken aback when I looked at the room where we were all going to be sleeping. That was a little bit daunting.

Unfolding the sheet of paper that would declare where she would stay and who her roommate would be that year, she recognized the first name, another woman from her hometown of Pierce, Neb. They had requested each other as sophomore roommates. What Riedel didnt expect were the seven other names that followed. Eight roomies? When she arrived at the address on the corner of East Hillcrest and Sunrise Drive on the north side of campus, she went down the stairs and into the basement of the house that had been nicknamed Adams Dorm, after the owner of the home.

After waiting in a long line outside of Founders Hall in the August Nebraska heat, Riedel made it to the table where she received her housing assignment.

Descending into the basement, she passed through the laundry room and entered a large room with desks lining the one wall and a piano opposite. She poked her head in the next room and saw two bunk beds and five single beds. There the nine women would rest their heads, all together in the same room. I was a little bit taken aback when I looked at the room

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Students enjoy a beautiful spring day on the front porch of East Co Lin, which faced the south.

College West stood on the corner of College Drive and North Columbia Avenue.

where we were all going to be sleeping, said Riedel. That was a little bit daunting. Surprisingly, Riedel doesnt remember it being much of a problem that nine women shared only one bathroom. We must have gotten up at different times, she said. We seemed to make it work. As Concordias numbers continued to grow through the 1960s and early 1970s, the college did its best to meet the demand, but simply didnt have enough dorm space for everyone. Beside sophomore women, many transfer students also could expect to have a less-than-traditional housing assignment while attending CTC.

in basements; others were in upper rooms of some of Sewards largest homes.

The arrangements for offcampus housing ranged in comfort level and distance from campus. Some students were housed in basements; others were in upper rooms of some of Sewards largest homes.

Residential life evolves

A basement or attic space might not sound very comfortable, but it shouldnt be forgotten that living on campus then was no luxury ticket either. Concordias very first class of students lived all together on the third floor of Founders Hall. At one point the beds were in rows that lined the walls and center of a large room, referred to in jest as the stockyards.

The arrangements for off-campus housing ranged in comfort level and distance from campus. Some students were housed

For decades, Concordia also used two wood frame buildings that looked more like homes than dorms. Referred to as White House #1 and White House #2, these buildings served as living quarters for the early students. Some students were housed also on the third floor of Nebraska Hall and in another

39

Carol Bohnsack 67 Keller, a resident counselor for East Co Lin f inds a quiet place to study with her coffee.

building referred to as the Barracks Building, where 20-30 beds were placed in each of two rooms.

Miessler Hall, built in 1905, had one large room for students In the winter of 1963, President Janzow wrote in the but it also housed the refectory and infirmary. By the late Broadcaster that because of the 1950s, Miessler Hall came to be continuing student growth, more known as Mousler Hall after a Another alum reported than a third of Concordia students resident captured 25 mice in his room that it was so cold that were living in off-campus housing, in one semester. they taped newspaper to the homes of Seward residents. The first modern dormitory with were made annually through separate rooms for sets of students the basement walls in an Requests the Seward County Independent and was Jesse Hall, built in 1924. attempt to retain heat in church bulletins that housing help Mid-century on-campus housing was needed. Concordia operated the winter. options included Jesse, Strieter and this way until the early 1970s when Schuelke Halls, which were always enough dorms were in place and the filled to capacity, as well as East Co number of students stopped rising. Lin, College West, West Co Lin, and white frame houses along Columbia Avenue between Lincoln and College streets. Off-campus memories Concordia tried to keep pace with housing needs, constructing When asked about the creative living arrangements from

three dorms within two years: Timothy, Philip and Ruth Hall in 1960-61. A second Ruth Hall opened in 1963. It wasnt enough.

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Rachel Hinrichs and Ann Watermann 72 Wachsmann sit on the couch in College West as they practiced their knitting in the winter of 1969.

their college days on the Concordia University, Nebraska Alumni Facebook page, alumni offered their stories of offcampus housing assignments that were cramped, odd, cold and sometimes just plain too far from campus. Most recollections were positive, but there were some unfortunate experiences reported, including a mid-year move back to campus after the professors basement was deemed unlivable by the college. Another alum reported that it was so cold that they taped newspaper to the basement walls in an attempt to retain heat in the winter. Besides the cold, the same residents also endured both of their hosts, an elderly couple, dying that same school year. Having served as the director of admissions during the time, Dr. Eldon Jack Duensing 53 remembers the annual scramble to find off-campus housing for students. He and his wife also housed students in their basement and remember it being, for most students, a very good experience, one that

often created life-long relationships with the hosts. In fact Duensing and his wife Glennie (Sorensen 53) are still in contact with many of those they hosted. As an administrator, Duensing also heard reports of the less favorable arrangements. Those were the exception, fortunately. Most people really wanted to help the Concordia students and make it a comfortable place for them, Duensing said. These days living off campus is reserved as an option for upperclassmen. Jonathan Hall, Concordias most recent oncampus housing, has apartment-style units. It was built that way to accommodate the students who want the best of both worldssomething more like off-campus living, but with on-campus convenience. And no need to tape newspapers to the wall for insulation.

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Phonathon 2014Begins Jan. 18

for alumni & friends

Symphonic Band TourApril 3-6 The band will make tour stops in Missouri and Illinois. Visit cune.edu/bandtour for concert locations. Watch your mailboxes for special postcard invitations. Concordia SundayApril 27 Celebrate the value of a Lutheran education at Concordia University, Nebraska and other institutions of the Concordia University System. Email alumni@cune.edu for more information. CO 64 Golden ReunionMay 8-11 Registration materials and schedule will be mailed to all Class of 64 reunion guests in early March. Chamber Choir TourMay 10-18 The Chamber Choir will perform in South Dakota, Wyoming and Montana. Visit cune.edu/chamtour for concert locations. Lutheran Laymans League Lutheran Hour Convention July 23-27, Detroit, Mich. Be sure to visit Concordias exhibit and connect with alumni and friends at the Renaissance Center in Detroit, Mich. LCMS Worship ConferenceJuly 27-31, Seward Exhibits and a special alumni gathering are planned as part of this national conference. Homecoming & Alumni Reunion Weekend Oct. 3-5 All alumni are invited to join us for homecoming! Concordias theatre program will be celebrated this year. A special reunion is planned for all past participants in theatre at Concordia, with presentations, exhibits and gatherings for alumni; email Bryan.Moore@cune.edu for more information. Golden Reunion of the Concordia High School Class of 64 Registration and schedule information for the weekends events will be in the summer Broadcaster magazine and online at cune.edu/homecoming by Aug. 1.

Current students will begin calling alumni soon for the 2014 Phonathon. The Phonathon is a special way to contribute to our future alumni, either at cune.edu/phone or by making a pledge over the phone and fulfilling the gift later. Concordia Invitational TournamentJan. 24-25, Mequon, Wis. All-Concordia Alumni Reception from 4-5 p.m. at the south end of gym on Saturday. Also that evening, after the conclusion of the tournament, join us for a celebration at The Chancery Restaurant, 11046 North Port Washington Rd., Mequon, Wis.; RSVP to alumni@cune.edu. Lutheran Education Association National Administrators ConferenceFeb. 13-15, St. Louis, Mo. Be sure to stop by the Concordia exhibit and meet fellow alumni. Best Practices Ministry ConferenceFeb. 20-22, Phoenix, Ariz. Concordia staff will be there to greet you and bring the latest news from your alma mater. A Cappella TourMarch 6-16 A Cappella is traveling to Colorado, Arizona, New Mexico, Southern California, and Nevada on their 75th anniversary tour. Visit cune.edu/acaptour for details. Association of Lutheran Secondary Schools Conference March 13-16, Newport Beach, Calif. Attend the special breakfast presentation and drop by the Concordia Nebraska exhibit. Donor Day LuncheonMarch 22, Lincoln, Neb. Join us at a new location this year, the Lincoln Country Club, Lincoln, Neb. Concordia Invitational Tournament for TennisMarch 28-29, St. Louis, Mo. Tournament matches held at Fontbonne University, St. Louis, Mo. 42

Alumnotes
Dr. David Held HS 56 CO 60, professor emeritus of Concordia, was re-elected to the Concordia Theological Seminary (Fort Wayne, Ind.) Board of Regents. 1 Gary Gable CO 62 GR 70 has published a small booklet of five short stories meant to deepen faith and understanding through the responses of five protagonists to the Word of God. Proceeds have been designated for tuition scholarship help at Zion Lutheran School, Everett, Wash. Wayne Graumann, 70, retired from full-time pastoral ministry in the LCMS in 2013. His wife, Kathy Werner 70 Graumann, also retired after a career in the teaching ministry. They continue to reside in Tomball, Texas, where Wayne served as senior pastor for 35 years at Salem Lutheran Church of Rosehill. Rev. Dr. James R. Thomas 72 was recently awarded a sabbatical leave by Lenoir-Rhyne Universitys School of Theology, Lutheran Theological Southern Seminary, Columbia, S. C. Dr. Thomas is teaching and doing research during the fall 2013 semester at Good News Seminary, Accra, Ghana. Thomas has also contributed an article to the autumn 2013 edition of the Seminary Ridge Review, published by the Lutheran Theological Seminary at Gettysburg, Penn. He has written an expose on the life and work of Dr. Nelson Strobert. Marsha Junghans 73 Maurer published a new edition of her prayer collection, With Healing Wings: Prayers for Those Who Hurt and Those Who Care. For those suffering and for caregivers, With Healing Wings gives voice to the anguish of illness, affliction and heartache, and offers Gods own words of comfort, hope and healing. Bradley Hoefs 79 is the author of a book released in early 2013 titled Fresh Hope: Living Well in Spite of a Mental Health Diagnosis. The story describes how God brought him from the depths of a manic episode to starting the only-known Christian support group in America for those with mental health issues and for their loved ones. Rev. Jay West 79 has published and released his second book, titled Willing to YieldDiscovering how Yielding accesses the supernatural wisdom, favor and power of God. West is a motivational speaker for students of all ages including children, middle school, high school and universities, plus he speaks to businesses and congregations across the country. Jays wife, Diane Steffen 82 West, teaches K-1 at St Paul Lutheran School in Omaha, Neb. 2

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Julie Koenemann 80 and Donna Smith 79 Hoefs announce a ministry called WorshipOutlet.com which provides worship resources for pastors and worship leaders. Hoefs serves in the customer care and financial roles for the new ministry. Koenemann serves as the director of music resources and marketing. Steve Sonksen 87 was named the 2013 Texas History Teacher of the Year by the Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History and Preserve America. A panel of teachers, administrators and academics from Texas chose Sonksen for his use of primary documents in the classroom, the level of inspiration provided to students and career achievements in education. Paul Schkade 94 and Rebecca Musselman 95 Schkade rejoice in the birth of their daughter Elizabeth Christine on October 19, 2008. She joined big brother Daniel Paul who was born in September of 2005. Paul is the media technology specialist and international baccalaureate coordinator at McGraw Elementary in Fort Collins, Colo., and Becky is a reading interventionist at Irish Elementary in Fort Collins. 3 Krisha Niemoth 95 Uden and Leland Uden of Kenesaw, Neb., announce the birth of Josiah Henry Uden. Josiah was born on September 30, 2012. He has an older sister, Abigail (4 years old) and a brother, Darius (2 years old). 4 Hannah Nicole, daughter of Kevin and Jana Ehlers 97 Behr was born on March 1. Hannah was welcomed by older sister, Ella, 3. Jana currently teaches physical education and serves as athletic director at Unity Christian School in Fulton, Ill. 5
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In May 2013, Dr. Paul Lavigne 97 was nominated and selected Administrator of the Year Special Education, Region 16 (Orange County), by the Association for California School Administrators. Paul recently completed a doctorate in organizational leadership from the University of La Verne. He is currently the director of student services for the Savanna School District in Anaheim, Calif. Melanie Bonk 02 and Seth Wimer 00 welcomed the birth of their first child, Lauren Ann, on December 6, 2012. Melanie is a product marketing specialist for ProfitStars and Seth is a state trooper within the Nebraska State Patrol. They reside in the Blair, Neb., area. 6 Amber Dermody 03 and Lucas Bayer were married on Saturday, March 16, at St. Johns Lutheran Church in Victor, Iowa. Amber is a middle school vocal teacher at Grinnell Middle School in Grinnell, Iowa and Lucas is a paramedic and farmer. The couple resides in Victor, Iowa. 7 Ashley Schmidtke 03 Hanson was married to Matt Hanson on Friday, Aug. 2 in Duluth, Minnesota. Ashley is the director of admissions at Carthage College in Kenosha, Wis. and Matt works at Halpin Staffing Company in Kenosha, Wisconsin. The wedding party included Concordia graduates Heather Tollers, Bethany Buchinger Helwig and Michelle Pierce Degenhardt. 8 Andrea Duley 05 Dagley and husband Roger had their first child, Grace Marie Dagley, on May 11, 2013. Andrea also graduated with a masters of education in kinesiology from Dallas Baptist University on Aug. 9, 2013.

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Margaret Ingerslew 05 Lange and husband Seth announce the birth of Madeline on March 28. She was welcomed by big brother Andersen. 9 Christina Shaw 05 Williams received her masters of science in health sciences from Trident University International on Sept. 29. Rev. Timothy Koch 06 received his masters of sacred theology degree from Concordia Seminary in St. Louis on May 17. The title of his thesis was Manuscript 2193 and Its Text of the Gospel According to John. Rev. Christopher Maronde 06 has an article in the Concordia Theological Quarterly (Vol. 77, No. 2, Jan/Apr 2013, pp. 23-44) published by the faculty of Concordia Theological Seminary, Fort Wayne, Ind. Maronde is serving as pastor of a dual parish in Kiron, Iowa. Drew 06 and Annalisa Mueller 06 Rehkop celebrated the birth of their second child, Silas Benjamin Rehkop on Jan. 28. Big brother Eli turned 3 in June. They currently reside in Maryland where Drew works as a civilian for the United States Army. 10 Kara Repenning 06 recently began a new online jewelry boutique called Kara Dianes. The boutique sells new finds from emerging designers and its own house brands. Ryan Pitman 07 graduated from Chicago Medical School in June 2013. He is completing his residency in pediatrics through Washington University at Childrens Hospital in St. Louis. Gerri Osborn 08 Peterson and husband Dane announce the birth of their first child, son Teal Michael, on March 21, 2013. 11 Rachel Micheel 09 was married to Adam Goodpasture on June 22, 2013, at Trinity Lutheran Church in Shenandoah, Iowa. Rachel is the first grade teacher at Trinity Lutheran Church in Atchison, Kan., and Adam is attending the University of Kansas Medical Center to become a physical therapist. 12 Todd Stahlecker 09 and Rachel Arneson 09 Stahlecker are thanking Jesus for their sweet gift, Emmalyn Grace, born Aug. 2, 2013, in Seattle.
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Ryan Ankersen 10 and Keri Pageler 08 Ankersen were blessed with the birth of Abigail Sue, on July 9, 2012. She was baptized into Gods family August 11, 2012, at St. Paul Church, Flemington, N.J. The family resides in St. Louis, Mo., while Ryan completes his final year of seminary studies. 14 Alisha Bohnert 11 and Aaron Schimm 09 were united in marriage on January 5, 2013, at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Jackson, M0. Alisha and Aaron work at St. Johns Lutheran Church in Midland, Mich., their positions being director of parish music and director of operations, respectively. 15 Jacob Harmon 12 and Kerri Burmeister 12, were married December 28, 2012, in St. Charles, Mo. The couple now resides in Trumbull, Neb., where Jacob currently farms and coaches high school football and Kerri teaches special education. 16

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Memoriam
Gus Wiederaenders 29 Ruth Stelzer HS 33 CO 40 Pralle Maida Ruth Kluck39 Esslinger Doris Osterman 43 Boettcher Neoma Shuricht 43 Maier Laura Jacob 49 Ziehr Ellen Miller HS 51 Parker Herman Niedens 52 Junior Fischer 52 Allen Fichtner 54 Irene Michaelsen 72 Luehrs Rev. Wayne Koenig 54 June Bader 75 Tewes Dr. Paul Kleine HS 52 CO 58 Rev. Don Zimbrick 58 Rev. John Schmidt 58 Edgar Pflug 60 Arlene Tech 63 Prentice Dr. Ronnie Rivers 63 Lloyd Knudson 65 Karl Birnstein 70 Janet Castle 71 Willa Brinkmeyer CO 71 GR 87 Sheron Hess 81 Bankston Karla Bickel 83 George Senechal 90 Andrea Sporleder 95 McElwaine Jeffery Ryan 98 Rev. Daniel Alsop 99 Mary Shudel 99 Derek Rodine 12 Alice Repschlaeger Kandt Anita Quandt Oliver Brenda Zesch

in

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GIVING to the CONCORDIA FUND

Gifts to the Concordia Fund help to ensure that future generations of students will benefit from the Concordia Experience, a unique combination of academic excellence with a supportive community that knows the love of Christ. To make a gift to support the Concordia Fund, visit cune.edu/MyGift.
As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of Gods varied grace: whoever speaks, as one who speaks oracles of God; whoever serves, as one who serves by the strength that God supplies in order that in him belong glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen. I Peter 4:10-11 ESV everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. To

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800 North Columbia Avenue Seward, NE 68434

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bolingbrook, il

calendar of events
January 34 Lutheran Invitational Tournament for Nebraska Lutheran high schools 13 Spring term begins 13 Pure Photography: Pictorial and Modern Photographs, open through Feb. 14, Marxhausen Gallery 1819 Sleet and Snow Forensics Invitational 20 Visit Day for prospective students, visit cune. edu/VisitDay to register 2425 Concordia Invitational Tournament, Mequon, Wis. 26 Pure Photography: Pictorial and Modern Photographs from the Syracuse University Art Collection opening reception, Marxhausen Gallery, 1 p.m. with exhibit talk at 2 p.m. in Thom Leadership and Education Center Auditorium. 31 Concordia Track and Field Classic, through Feb. 1, Walz Fieldhouse February 7 Career and Graduate Fair, Cattle Conference Room, Janzow Campus Center 14 Concordia Indoor Track and Field Invite, Walz Fieldhouse 16 Flora Wiegmann: Recent Video and Film Work, open through March 28, Marxhausen Gallery 17 Visit Day for prospective students, visit cune. edu/VisitDay to register gpac Indoor Championships, Crete, Neb. 22 24 Flora Wiegmann: Recent Video and Film Work Reception opening reception, Marxhausen Gallery, 1 p.m. with exhibit talk at 2 p.m. in Thom Leadership and Education Center Auditorium. 28 Dessert Theater Event, Janzow Campus Center, Cattle Conference Room, 7:30 p.m.

visit cune.edu/events for the most recent schedule and ticket information
March 12 Dessert Theater Event, Janzow Campus Center, Cattle Conference Room, 7:30 p.m. 4 Mens and Womens Basketball gpac Championships 616 A Cappella Tour: Colorado, Arizona, New Mexico, Southern California and Nevada naia National Championships, Geneva, 68 Ohio naia National 78 Mens Wrestling Championships, Topeka, Kan. 816 Spring Break 1218 Womens Basketball naia Tournament, Sioux City, Iowa 21 Visit Day for prospective students, visit cune.edu/VisitDay to register 22 Donor Day Thank You Reception, Country Club of Lincoln, Lincoln, Neb. 23 A Cappella Concert, St. John Lutheran Church, 7 p.m. 27 Honor Recital, Recital Hall, Music Center, 7 p.m. 2830 The Glass Menagerie Performance, Studio Theatre, Music Center, 7:30 p.m. 30 Annual Student Art Exhibition open through April 11, Marxhausen Gallery. April 36 Symphonic Band Tour: Missouri and Illinois 5 Gathering of the Talents 69 Observatory Show, Osten Observatory, 9 p.m. 10, 12 One Act Play Festival, Studio Theatre, Music Center, 7:30 p.m. 12 Chamber Choir Concert, St. John Lutheran Church, 3 p.m. 13 Symphonic Band Concert, St. John Lutheran Church, 3 p.m. 1821 22 25 27 27 28 May 2 2 3 Easter Break Bachelor of Fine Art Thesis Exhibition, open through May 8, Marxhausen Gallery Visit Day for prospective students, visit cune.edu/VisitDay to register Bachelor of Fine Art Thesis Exhibition Reception, Marxhausen Gallery, 1 p.m. with exhibit talk at 2 p.m. Male Chorus & Womens Chorale Concert, St. Gregory the Great Seminary, 4 p.m. Concert Band and Brass Ensemble, St. John Lutheran Church, 7 p.m.

Spring Jazzfest, Weller Auditorium, 7:30 p.m. gpac Outdoor Multi Events, Crete, Neb. improvables Performances, Studio Theatre, Music Center, 7:30 p.m. gpac Outdoor Championships, Crete, Neb. 3 4 Handbell Concert, Recital Hall, Music Center, 3 p.m. 811 Class of 64 Golden Reunion 9 Concordia Twilight Meet, Bulldog Stadium 9 Baccalaureate, St. John Lutheran Church, 7 p.m. 10 Commencement, Walz Arena, 10 a.m. 1018 Chamber Choir Tour: South Dakota, Wyoming and Montana 12 Summer term begins 2224 naia National Outdoor Track & Field Championships, Gulf Shores, Ala.