Concordia added two administrators in July to the top level of its executive structure. Scott Seevers serves now as vice president for enrollment management, student services and athletics. Dr. Mark Blanke has been promoted to the position of associate provost.
Both men were undergraduates at Concordia in the '80s, but have taken different paths in their return to Seward, Nebraska.
Seevers was born and raised in Seward and spent quite a bit of time on campus as his father, John, served as a professor and coach for Concordia. After earning his education degree, Seevers spent eight years teaching and coaching at Lutheran high schools in Minnesota and Ohio. From education, he moved into business, developing a medical products business from the ground up and overseeing unit revenue of more than $30 million.
"When I left teaching and coaching ten years ago, I promised myself that one day I'd use the experiences that God gave me in the business world in a meaningful way," said Seevers. "I think this position gives me an opportunity to do that through a very talented and passionate team here at Concordia."
As evidenced by his title, Seevers will oversee a large group of offices on campus.
"He is a gifted man who has a tremendous passion for Christian education at every level," said Rev. Dr. Brian Friedrich, president of Concordia. "His charge is to lead Concordia's efforts to recruit, retain and serve students in all areas beyond the classroom."
"My goals are to develop a strong sense of team between admissions, marketing, student services, & athletics, and to grow our programs here at Concordia so we can attract, develop and send out graduates who are primed for long-term service and success," said Seevers.
Dr. Mark Blanke will fill the newly-created associate provost position. He has 13 years of experience at Concordia as a professor and the leader of the Director of Christian Education program. Blanke will oversee the university's College of Graduate Studies, off-campus instructional sites, accreditation issues, various institutes housed at Concordia and strategic planning initiatives.
"I was attracted to the opportunity to innovate and collaborate with those who Concordia traditionally connects with as well as new constituencies," said Blanke. "I hope to work with others to help bring Concordia's mission to a wider group of people who are seeking a quality, Christian educational experience."
Beyond his experience in higher education, Blanke also has deep understanding of education in the church with parish experience in Nevada and California. He is a prolific writer and speaker on the topics of education, faith growth and the administration of programs and volunteers.
"He is a respected and gifted strategic planning facilitator, and he will work to help position the university to respond to the demands of preparing students for service to church and world in the 21st century," said Friedrich. "I am delighted to welcome Scott and Mark to positions of executive leadership at Concordia and anticipate their strong leadership and partnership in the joyful task of Lutheran, Christian higher education."