2012 alumni award recipients
Church Worker Alumnus of the Year: Ronald Royuk
Ronald Royuk has served in Lutheran education for 43 years. He graduated with a degree in education, studying organ and geography. He served as a youth director and organist in Euclid, Ohio, before becoming a teacher, music director and football coach at Bethany Lutheran Church and School in Parma, Ohio. Royuk then served 20 years at First Lutheran Church and School in Knoxville, Tenn. He was principal of Concordia Lutheran High School in Tomball, Texas, Martin Lutheran High School in Northrop, Minn., and Lutheran High School of Greater New Orleans in Metair, La. He served as president of the Lutheran Education Association and continues to supervise secondary student teachers at Concordia. He and his wife, Elaine, have three children and are active members of St. John Lutheran Church in Seward and Concordia’s Alumni Council.
Lay Worker of the Year: Gerrod Lambrecht
Gerrod Lambrecht began work for Healthcare Services Group, Inc., and eventually advanced to the level of divisional vice president in 2005. He began work for Magnolia Health Systems in Indianapolis, Ind., in 2008 and was promoted to chief operating officer in 2010. Since 2010, Lambrecht has sponsored two scholarships for Seward High School students attending Concordia. He and his wife, Sarah, have one son, Luke.
Young Alumnus of the Year: Kurt Jostes
Kurt Jostes graduated from Concordia University, Nebraska in 2007 with a degree in business administration. In 2008, Jostes began serving as director of advancement with Recovery Assistance, Inc. He and his wife, Rebecca, attend St. Paul Lutheran Church in New Orleans, La. He continues to work with mission teams from Concordia, most recently the senior members of the 2011 Bulldog football team.
Lifetime Service Award: Charles Ore
Dr. Charles Ore has served the Lutheran church for over 50 years. He began teaching at Trinity Lutheran School in Lincoln, Neb., before beginning a career as professor of music at Concordia Teachers College in River Forest, Ill. Ore then came to Concordia University, Nebraska, in 1966, serving as chair of the music department. He led the department through the accreditation process with the National Association of Schools of Music, helped rewrite music curriculum, rebuild the music library, develop assessment tools and add a music lab for composition. Ore retired in 2002, but continues to teach piano and organ part-time as faculty emeritus. He served as an organist and choir director at First St. Paul Lutheran Church in Chicago, Ill., and at Pacific Hills Lutheran Church in Omaha, Neb., from 1976 to 2002. Ore then served as organist at Plymouth Congregational Church and at First Presbyterian Church in Lincoln, Neb. He is a nationally recognized composer of many choral and organ pieces, using hymns, liturgy and chorale preludes to serve congregational worship. He has recorded five CDs of his music.
Lifetime Service Award: Leah Serck
Dr. Leah Serck began teaching at Redeemer Lutheran School in Denver, Colo. She also served as one of the original off-campus cooperating teachers for Concordia Teachers College student teachers until 1971 when she began training teachers full time. Since 2002, Serck has taught as professor emerita at Concordia. She has led teacher workshops for The Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod and the Lutheran Education Association for more than 30 years. She served as the early childhood education program director from 1971 to 1994. Additionally, she sang in the adult choir and taught Sunday School for 24 years at St. John Lutheran Church in Seward. She served on the LCMS Nebraska District Sunday school curriculum committee for 10 years. She has worked with a commission for the developmentally disabled for more than 10 years, as well as an early childhood representative and secretary for the LEA. Serck helped begin Concordia’s Early Childhood Conference and Plum Creek Literacy Festival, now both held annually. She also funds the education library for faculty and students in the Thom Leadership Education Center.
Lifetime Service Award: Theodore von Fange
A Deshler, Neb., native, Theodore von Fange began his teaching career in 1935 after just one year of college at Concordia, at only 19 years old. Von Fange served as teacher for eight grades, choir director, organist, pastor and driver of the school wagon. He returned to Concordia before heading to Wauneta, Neb., to teach in another one-room school. He then received a bachelor’s degree from Concordia. He taught in California and served as principal of Houston Lutheran High School. He helped start Lutheran high schools in Cleveland, Ohio, Mayer, Minn., and San Diego, Calif. He later moved to Winfield, Kan., serving as principal and teacher at St. John’s College. He became dean of the department of education at Bethany College in Lindsborg, Kan., until his retirement in 1983. Von Fange was elected to the Kansas State Board of Education during which time he initiated certification and accreditation procedures approved by the board. After moving to Seward in 1991 with his wife, Verda, he chaired Concordia’s 1992-1993 annual fund, helping to raise $900,000. He continues to serve as part of the Seward County Aging Commission.
Partners in Mission & Ministry Award: Duane and Mary Hilgendorf
Duane and Dr. Mary Hilgendorf have served Lutheran schools in Arkansas, Florida and Wisconsin. Duane has taught, coached, served as athletic director, youth director and as director of development in Sheboygan, Wis. Mary has taught both elementary and secondary school. Duane worked as dean of development at Concordia University, Wisconsin, before moving to vice president of advancement in 1997. Since, he has become the senior vice president of advancement, a member of the Administrative Council, and is vice president of the Concordia University, Wisconsin Foundation. Mary served Concordia University, Wisconsin as an adjunct professor, assistant, associate and full professor of education, assistant to the dean of human services, chair of the elementary/middle education department, director of the Women’s Leadership Institute and director of Lutheran Teacher Placement. After retiring, she continues to serve as an ambassador to the Women’s Leadership Institute. The Hilgendorfs have been annual supporters of the church work scholarship and “On A Mission” campaign.
Church Leadership in Outreach Award: Jerold and Karen Markin
Jerold and Karen Markin have served ministries in Southern California, Iowa, Nebraska, Arizona, Hong Kong and Hanoi. Jerold, a Vietnam War veteran, has led youth groups to five LCMS National Youth Gatherings. He began serving at Hong Kong International School in 1996 as a teacher and basketball coach. He currently volunteers as a teacher and English tutor while coaching with LCMS missions in Hanoi, Vietnam. He also serves as a church council member of the Hanoi International Church. Karen has served as a religious education facilitator and curriculum writer at HKIS and has written religion curriculum for Concordia Publishing House. She served LCMS missions in Vietnam as an English teacher and currently teaches first grade at the Concordia International School in Hanoi. The Markins have served four years as foster parents to 17 children in addition to their own four children. Both are active in Boy and Girl Scouts of America. Karen has established a Girl Scout troop in Hanoi as well.
Honorary Alumni Award: Jeffrey Craig-Meyer
Jeffrey Craig-Meyer began service to the LCMS as the assistant director for the “For the Sake of the Church” campaign to increase attendance and funding for Concordia schools. He has served the LCMS Foundation, helped in the development of LCMS World Mission and managed the “Fan into Flame” campaign for global outreach. He was the director for campaigns and special programs for the Lutheran Malaria Initiative and is now the national executive director of development for Educational Enterprises, Inc. He was a member of the church council and congregational president of Historic Trinity Lutheran Church in St. Louis, Mo. Craig-Meyer was a lay delegate to the LCMS Synodical Conventions in 2004 and 2010, and is an active member of the Lutheran Foundation board of directors in St. Louis. He served as a lay delegate to the LCMS Synodical conventions in 2004 and 2010. He is an active member on the board of directors for the Lutheran Foundation in St. Louis. Jeffrey and his wife, Justine, have two children.
Friend of Concordia Award: Fred Schmidt
Though not a Concordia University, Nebraska alumnus, Fred Schmidt has generously supported Concordia’s two most recent capital projects, the Thom Leadership Education Center and the Walz Human Performance Complex. He also supports athletic, music and drama events on campus. He has served as president and vice president of the annual youth fishing event in Deshler, Neb., is president of the Deshler Rural Fire Protection board, and a past president of the Izaak Walton League of Thayer County. Schmidt is an active member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Hebron, Neb., where he has served as elder, trustee, treasurer, zone officer, and a member of the Laymen’s League. He has served as a delegate to the LCMS Nebraska District convention and Synodical convention. He is also a part of Concordia’s Heritage Society.
2011 Alumni Award recipients
Church Worker of the Year: Henry Aschbrenner
Henry Aschbrenner has served in Lutheran education for more than 50 years. After graduating from Concordia, Aschbrenner went to Menlo Park, Calif., to teach and direct the choir at Bethany LutheranSchool. In 1966 he became principal and taught at St. John Lutheran School in Napa, Calif. During his 15 years there, he directed its internationally touring choir and handbell choir. Aschbrenner worked for the Diablo Valley Lutheran Education Association from 1981-91, establishing a preschool and three elementary schools during that time. He earned a master’s in school administration from SimpsonCollege. In 1991 he became the executive director of the “Sharing the Vision of Our Ministry” campaign for the The Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod California-Nevada-Hawaii district. Aschbrenner joined the staff of Concordia University Irvine in 1994 as the director of major and planned gifts. Two years later he was named vice president and executive director of the Concordia University Foundation. He retired in 2001.
Church Worker of the Year: Gaylord Flicker
Gaylord Flicker has spent more than 35 years working in Lutheran education in Idaho and Texas. A 1974 Concordia graduate, he began teaching 5th and 6th grade at Grace Lutheran School in Pocatello, Idaho, and became principal two years later. In 1985 Flicker became principal of Prince of Peace Lutheran School in Carrollton, Texas, and in 1988 he founded Christ Our Savior School in Coppell, Texas. He earned his M.Ed. from Idaho State University. From 1991-2001 Flicker returned to Grace Lutheran as principal, where he helped the school regain its accreditation, restructure its day care and extended-day programs, add an early childhood center and establish a counseling center. Flicker won the National Distinguished Principal award from the National Association of Elementary School Principals in 2001 and is currently the executive director for Grace Lutheran. He is a presenter for the LCMS Northwest district and a volunteer consultant for schools seeking accreditation or implementing improvement plans.
Lay Worker of the Year: Timothy Moll
Timothy Moll earned his bachelor’s degree in business at Concordia in 1989, where he was named outstanding business graduate and helped form the student business organization. He attended the University of Nebraska-Lincoln College of Law and graduated with a J.D. in 1994. Moll joined the law firm of Rembolt Ludtke, LLP in 1995 and became a partner in 2003. Moll is an adjunct professor and seminar presenter on taxation at UNL and serves on the board of directors of the Law College Education Services Corp. His memberships also include the Great Plains Federal Tax Institute and the Christian Legal Society. Moll continues to serve Concordia as a member of its Board of Regents and as a director of the Concordia Foundation, Nebraska.
Young Alumna of the Year: Margaret Ingerslew Lange
After graduating from Concordia in 2004 with a degree in business, Margaret Ingerslew Lange began working for Network Direct Incorporated and earned salesperson of the year honors there in 2005. Lange founded Making It Possible, Inc. in 2006, an organization created to help local schools and athletic clubs raise funds. Part of Lange’s fundraising efforts has been donated to medical research and building plans for developing businesses. Lange is currently a first lieutenant in the U.S. Air Force after completing officer training in 2008. She was named a top graduate in flight school, was given the Major General William A. Cohen Strike Leadership Award for Superior Performance and now works as a navigator on a B-52. Lange is also active in community service, receiving the Nebraska chapter 2007Mentor of the Year award by Team in Training.
Lifetime Service Award: Michael Meyer
Equipped with a bachelor’s degree in broadcast journalism from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Michael Meyer joined the KSRD radio staff in Seward in 1979. In 1986 he began working as an audio visual specialist for the Nebraska State Patrol, producing and editing scripts, training videos and public service announcements. Meyer also works with forensic video and audio analysis, directly impacting investigations and trials. He serves as a spokesperson for the state patrol and has worked with both local and national news organizations. Meyer is involved in youth and men’s programs at St. JohnLutheran Church and volunteers for ministry campaigns and events, including a medical mission trip to Guatemala in 2009.
Partners in Mission & Ministry Award: Ivan and Jennifer Loudenback Rasch
Ivan came to Concordia as a missionary youth from Nigeria, earning his bachelor’s degree in secondary education in 1991. Jennifer earned her degree in elementary education and music in 1991 also. Both of the Raschs taught in Illinois after graduating, Jennifer at Zion Lutheran School in Matteson, and Ivan at Luther East High School in Lansing. From 1994-1999, the Raschs’ teaching careers moved them toTexas. In October of 1999, Ivan was called to teach at Hillcrest School in Jos, Nigeria, the school he attended growing up. He now works with LCMS World Mission in Nigeria and serves as volunteer coordinator and computer technician for the school, while Jennifer teaches music.
Church Leadership in Outreach Award: Patrick and Susan Frerking
After earning his bachelor’s degree from Concordia in December of 1987, Patrick taught science and coached football at Lutheran High South in St. Louis, Mo. While there he also helped start a school-wide service program. In 1993 he accepted a call to teach science at Hong Kong International School. Later Patrick also earned his master’s degree from Concordia. Patrick and Susan crossed paths first at HKIS where Susan taught language arts, physical education and social sciences. In 1998 the Frerkings became two of the first faculty members at Concordia International School Shanghai. Starting with just 22 students, the school now educates 1,200 students from 30 countries in preschool through 12th grade. The Frerkings are now in their first semester at the new Concordia International School Hanoi. Susan teaches, while Patrick serves as the middle school principal.
Friend of Concordia Award: Bruce Koeller
Bruce Koeller earned his Bachelor of Science degree from Concordia in 1982. He then taught at Redeemer Lutheran School in South Gate, Calif., and then at Bethany Lutheran School in Long Beach. After six years Koeller moved to Colorado to begin a career as owner and manager of multiple Subway restaurants, developing employee training and support manuals. His materials were distributed to Subway restaurants state-wide. He is currently managing 11 Subway locations as well as a gelato shop.
Honorary Alumnus Award: Brian Friedrich
In acknowledgement of his 20 years of dedication to the mission and ministry of Concordia, Rev. Dr. Brian Friedrich was made an honorary alumnus. Friedrich earned a bachelor’s degree at ConcordiaUniversity in St. Paul, Minn., in 1979 and a Master of Divinity degree from Concordia Seminary in St. Louis, Mo., in 1986. His career in education began at Martin Luther High School in Maspeth, N.Y., and Lutheran Church of St. John in Flushing, N.Y., where he concurrently served as a religion teacher and dean of chapel as well as assistant pastor from 1986-1988. He then was called to serve Peace Lutheran Church in Park Falls, Wis., as associate pastor and pastor. Friedrich joined the community at Concordia in 1991 as director of the university’s Centennial Campaign. He later was named dean of development and college relations and then assistant to the president before being named vice president for institutional advancement in 1997. Friedrich became the tenth president of Concordia in 2004 and earned his Ph.D. from Capella University, Minneapolis, Minn., in 2005. Since 2004 Concordia has expanded programs, increased student enrollment, completed the $63 million On A Mission campaign, completed numerous facility renovations, and constructed Jonathan Hall and two phases of the Walz Human Performance Complex. Within the community Friedrich is served as president of the Seward Rotary Club and is a member of St. John Lutheran Church.
2010 Alumni Award recipients
Church Worker of the Year: Leland P. Jackson '80
Leland Jackson has spent 30 years in service by ministering to the children and youth of multiple congregations. He earned both a bachelor's degree in elementary education and a director of Christian education certificate at Concordia. He has served youth in Minnesota and in Kansas, and he continues to work with youth and college students. Jackson is a member of the Lutheran Education Association and the National Association of Directors of Christian Education. Jackson has served on the boards of the local YMCA child care and ABC Pregnancy Center. He works with a local shelter called the Emmaus House, Habitat for Humanity and initiated the Garden City recycling program.
Young Alumna of the Year: Gretchen M. Staude '97 Jameson
Gretchen Jameson has used her skills in teaching and communication to serve in schools, national entities within The Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod and nonprofit organizations in her time since graduation. She was named the secondary student teacher of the year at her graduation from Concordia and awarded a Pew Younger Summer Fellowship. Jameson answered the call to teach at Milwaukee Lutheran High School and Lutheran High School North, St. Louis. In 2002 she joined the staff of the youth ministry office of the LCMS. She later became the director of public relations and corporate communications at Concordia Publishing House and served there until this spring when she founded her own public relations company, purePR. Jameson is also a senior associate at The Holden Group, LLC, providing communication strategy consulting to national and international businesses. She earned a master's degree in public relations from Webster University, St. Louis, in 2009.
Partners in Mission and Ministry: Spencer R. '77 and Rhonda Apple '78 Peregoy
Spencer and Rhonda Apple Peregoy have been partners in life and in their careers in education for more than 30 years. Spencer graduated from Concordia in 1977 with a bachelor's in education. He began his teaching career at Grace Lutheran Church and School in Lancaster, Calif., then moved to Martin Lutheran School in Phoenix, Ariz., St. Paul Lutheran School in San Diego, Calif., and is presently principal at St. John Lutheran School in Ellisville, Mo. He has been a classroom teacher, a coach, an athletic director and an administrator during his career in education. Rhonda graduated from Concordia in 1978 with a degree in early childhood education and joined Spencer at Grace Lutheran Church and School in Lancaster, Calif. She currently teaches at St. John Lutheran School in Ellisville, Mo.
Church Leadership in Outreach Award: Bruce M. Wall '04
Through Bruce Wall's teaching and missionary efforts, thousands across the country and around the world have been touched by his service. Wall earned a degree in electronic engineering in 1995 and began his professional career as a quality assurance technician in Louisiana. Wall pursued a career in teaching after earning his degree at Concordia in 2004. In his first year of teaching, Wall taught science and theology as well as coached volleyball and baseball at Orlando Lutheran Academy in Florida. He joined LCMS World Mission in 2005, developed the current short-term mission program of the synod and facilitated hundreds of short-term mission experiences. Wall and his family currently are missionaries based from Panama City, Peru. He is serving partner churches and missionaries through strategic mission planning and developing new mission work for Peru, Panama, the Dominican Republic and Jamaica.
Lay Worker of the Year Award: Dr. Carl D. Langefeld '83
Dr. Carl Langefeld is a statistical geneticist whose research involves mapping complex human genetic traits in an effort, ultimately, to prevent and treat disease. Born and raised in Seward, he earned a bachelor's at Concordia with a double major and earned a degree in education as well. He continued his education, earning a master's in ecology and evolutionary biology from University of Nebraska-Lincoln in 1986 and a master's in applied statistics from Florida State University, Tallahassee, in 1988. Langefeld took a position in the emerging field of biostatistics at Indiana University School of Medicine and went on to do research and teach at Indianapolis University and at the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor. After earning his doctorate in biostatistics from the University of Michigan in 1999, Langefeld accepted a position at Wake Forest University. He is currently the director of the Center on Public Health Genomics and the associate chair of the Department of Biostatistical Sciences, Division of Public Health Sciences.
Friend of Concordia Award: Benjamin F. "Corky" Markin '58
Benjamin Markin has dedicated his life to education. After earning his Bachelor of Science in Education degree from Concordia in 1958, he began his career teaching high school biology, science and physical education at the Concordia Collegiate Institute, Bronxville, N.Y. He earned his master's degree in biology and ecology from Long Island University in 1964. Spanning 42 years, Markin has pursued his career in education in New York, Oregon and Washington.
Lifetime Service Award: Eugene R. '58 and Marian E. Faszholz
Eugene and Marian Faszholz are being honored for their service to their church, community and alma mater. After working for the St. Louis Cardinals and serving in the army, Eugene came to Concordia and earned his degree in education. His first call took him to St. Peters Lutheran School in San Leandro, Calif. He then worked at Concordia High School in Seward and Martin Luther High School in Greendale, Wis. Eugene retired after 37 years of teaching and coaching. Marian earned her nursing degree in 1950 and worked in hospitals in California, Wisconsin and Nebraska for more than 32 years. She earned her bachelor's in health science from St. Francis College, Joliet, Ill., in 1987. Retiring to Seward in 1995, the Faszholzs are active at St. John Lutheran Church, Concordia Guild, Scholarship Parade of Homes, with the Seward Hospital auxiliary and in the community.
Honorary Alumna Award: Marie T. Bader
Marie Bader has contributed decades of service to her church and community. She taught in Seward County for three years before marrying Alois Bader and joining him in his work on the farm. She has been active at St. John Lutheran Church as a member of the St. John Lutheran Women's League and the Lutheran Women's Missionary League. In the community she served as the president, vice president and treasurer of the Seward County Extension Club and volunteered with the Seward County Fair. Bader continues to manage the family farm.
Honorary Alumna Award: Shirley A. Liesener
Equipped with a bachelor's degree in math from Luther College in Decorah, Iowa, Liesener joined the staff of General Electric Co. in 1957 to write computer programs for the design of jet engines. After 10 years, she was hired by Control Data Corp. as a software analyst. She worked on projects in Minneapolis-St. Paul, New York City, Oklahoma City and Kansas City, becoming the manager of a team of 50 software analysts and engineers. When Control Data Corp. reorganized in 1990, she joined the development office at Concordia, retiring in 2007. Liesener serves on the stewardship board at St. John Lutheran Church, as the congregational secretary, as the monthly newsletter editor and on the coordinating council. She is treasurer for the Seward Relay for Life and was named a 2007 Outstanding Woman in Business by Concordia.
2009 alumni award recipients
Church Worker Alumna of the Year: Virginia R. KohtzVirginia R. Kohtz of Seward, Neb., has spent almost fifty years working with young people. Kohtz came to Concordia as a 13-year-old high school freshman, earned her bachelor’s degree in education in 1961 and her master’s degree in 1973. After beginning her teaching career at Atonement Lutheran in Dearborn, Mich., and then moving to Bethlehem Lutheran in Roseville, Mich., Kohtz returned to Seward in 1967 to serve at St. John Lutheran School. She remained at St. John’s for 38 years, teaching mostly first grade. Kohtz retired from teaching in 2005 but remains active at the school, working in the library. She is involved in the congregation of St. John Lutheran Church in the Stephen Ministry, Christ Care, tape ministry and as a greeter. She also is active in the community through her work with the Plum Creek Children’s Literacy Festival, the Memorial Hospital auxiliary and the Concordia University book fair.
Young Alumna of the Year Award: Tasha E. Fingerlin
Tasha E. Fingerlin of Aurora, Colo., has distinguished herself as a scientist and teacher since graduating with high distinction from Concordia in 1997. Fingerlin went on to attend the prestigious University of Michigan, earning her master’s degree in biostatistics and her Ph.D. in epidemiology. Presently, Fingerlin is an assistant professor in the departments of epidemiology and biostatistics and informatics at the Colorado School of Public Health of the University of Colorado Denver. At Our Father Lutheran Church in Centennial, Colo., Fingerlin is a member of the bell choir, a Barnabas minister and a lay minister. She is also involved in the American Society of Human Genetics and in the American Diabetes Association.
Lifetime Service: Rev. Gerald W. and Judith A. (Werth) Roggow
Rev. Gerald and Judith Roggow of Enid, Okla., have served in education and in pastoral work for more than 45 years. After meeting at Concordia and graduating in 1963, the Roggows moved to California where Judith taught at First Lutheran School in Alhambra, and Gerald was principal at Highland Park Lutheran. Gerald then accepted a call to Christ Lutheran School in Norfolk, Neb., to serve as principal. He completed his master’s degree in elementary administration from Concordia and his Master of Divinity from Concordia Seminary in St. Louis, Mo., before serving as a pastor at Zion Lutheran Church, Bancroft, Neb., and at St. John Lutheran Church, Ord, Neb. Judith worked at Abbey Christian Book Store, Norfolk, Neb., Concordia Publishing House Book Store, St. Louis, Mo., and Bancroft Community Preschool, Bancroft, Neb., while raising their five children. Presently retired, Gerald serves part time as pastor at First Lutheran Church in Pond Creek, Okla., and Judith teaches Sunday school and works part time as the church secretary. The Roggows have served Concordia University through its Alumni Association, the Concordia Guild and the Board of Regents.
Church Leadership in Outreach: Eric J. and Karin L. Semler
Eric and Karin Semler have been involved extensively in mission service in Asia. Eric earned his bachelor’s degree from Concordia in 1994 and student taught at Hong Kong International School. After graduation, he taught English as a Second Language and English Bible studies in Japan through the Volunteer Youth Missionary program. Karin graduated from Concordia University, St. Paul, Minn., in 1993 with a Director of Christian Education degree. She also served in Japan through the Volunteer Youth Missionary program. The Semlers returned stateside in 1997, and Eric served as a teacher, choir director, band director and assistant principal at Good Shepherd Lutheran School in Collinsville, Ill., while Karin worked at The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod World Mission in St. Louis, Mo. Eric earned his master’s degree in educational administration from Concordia University, River Forest. In 2005, the Semlers returned overseas to work with Christian education in Indonesia. They are now serving in China at Concordia International School Shanghai.
Partners in Mission and Ministry: Martin E. and Zella Schmidt
Martin and Zella Schmidt of Tai Tam, Hong Kong, have spent more than 25 years involved in teaching and human care service in Hong Kong. After completing his bachelor’s degree in education at Concordia in 1990, Martin accepted a call to teach at Hong Kong International School. He now serves in a ministry-share position, both teaching at HKIS and encouraging human care projects in Hong Kong, China, Vietnam and other Asian countries through The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod World Mission. He earned a master’s degree from Concordia and a doctorate at University of Western Australia. Zella also teaches at HKIS. The Schmidts are active members of Church of All Nations.
Lay Worker of the Year: James M. Miller
Jim Miller of Brookfield, Wis., earned a bachelor’s degree in education at Concordia in 1970. Miller began his career in education serving as principal and athletic director at St. Paul Lutheran School in Fort Worth, Texas. He has held many positions in development including positions at Lutheran Outdoor Ministries in Texas, The YMCA of Fort Worth, Texas, and The Wyman Center of Eureka, Mo. He applied his fund-raising expertise to his role as director of development of Lutheran Hour Ministries and as executive director of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod ministries support program at the Lutheran Church International Center in St. Louis, Mo. Miller was executive vice president and CEO at St. Louis Children’s Hospital in St. Louis, Mo., and currently serves as Children’s Hospital and Health System of Wisconsin foundation president and CEO.
Friend of Concordia University, Nebraska: Mike D. Pomerenke
Mike Pomerenke of Carmel, Ind., has served in the public education sector for over 25 years. After graduating from Concordia in 1981, he served as a teacher, coach and administrator in New Orleans, La., and in Indianapolis, Ind. For the past 22 years he has led in various administrative roles in Washington Township, Ind., presently as principal of Allison Elementary School. Pomerenke earned a master’s degree in biology and a master’s degree in educational administration from University of New Orleans and a life license in administration from Butler University, Indianapolis, Ind. Pomerenke is active in his congregation, Carmel Lutheran Church, serving on many committees and on the governing board and teaching Sunday school. He also sits on the board of directors and on the personnel committee of Indianapolis Lutheran High School.
Honorary Alumni: Rev. Edward G. and Marilyn Bertram
Rev. Edward and Marilyn Bertram of Etowah, N.C., are both graduates of Concordia College, Fort Wayne, Ind. Edward continued his education at Concordia Seminary and Washington University in St. Louis, Mo. The Bertram’s served as missionaries to Taiwan for 12 years. After returning to the United States, Edward was director of development for the Lutheran High School Association of Greater Milwaukee, president of the Lutheran Church Charities Fund in Addison, Ill., and an assistant pastor for Trinity Lutheran Church, Roselle, Ill. He then moved into the public sector as president of Tripar International, Schaumburg, Ill., as well as Aaron Associates and Chicago Import-Export, both of Elgin, Ill. Most recently, Edward has held the position of senior principal gift officer for the “Fan into Flame” campaign of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod World Mission. After her graduation, Marilyn earned her teaching certificate from Concordia, Seward. She worked with students in kindergarten through fourth grade during her teaching career. At their home congregation, Mt. Pisgah Lutheran Church, in Henderson, N. C., the Bertrams are involved in stewardship, evangelism, adult instruction and campaign leadership.
2008 alumni award recipients
Church Worker Alumnus of the Year AwardRobert Burger of Brookfield, Wis., has spent more than 40 years serving students in Lutheran schools in Missouri and Wisconsin. Burger graduated from Concordia High School (Seward) in 1960 and earned his bachelor’s degree from Concordia in 1964. After spending two years at St. Trinity Lutheran in St. Louis, Mo., Burger moved to Our Redeemer Lutheran School in Wauwatosa, Wis., where he continues to serve. He has also been the director of athletics and started a basketball tournament for local schools which continues to host hundreds of players annually. He was named the 1995 Teacher of the Year by the South Wisconsin District of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Burger is extensively involved in his congregation and was named the pastoral support/stewardship and development director in 2001.
Young Alumnus of the Year Award
A day at work for Damian Wolske of St. Louis, Mo., means sifting through the nuances of international politics, economics and geography as an analyst at the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency. Wolske earned bachelor’s degrees at Concordia in both geography and biology in 2002. In 2004 he earned his master’s degree in the well-regarded program for geography and urban planning at the University of Akron in Ohio. Working as a regional source analyst, Wolske has focused his energy on Afghanistan and Central Asia since 2005. He was named Junior Regional Analyst of the year in 2005 for his work across the agency and within the larger intelligence community. Recently, he has been transferred to Canberra, Australia for a three-year assignment as a liaison officer to the Australian military. He is a member of the American Planning Association and the Association of American Geographers.
Lifetime Service Award
William Hodgson has served the educational and spiritual ministry of Christ Lutheran School and Church in Phoenix, Ariz., since graduating from Concordia in 1972. In his time at the school, he has taught subjects at every level, Kindergarten through grade eight. His main focus now is social studies and literature for the 7th and 8th grades; he also assists with theology and confirmation classes. Hodgson has persistently worked to improve instruction and facilities for his students, purchasing the school’s first computer in the 1970s and shepherding the school’s technology resources as they eventually grew to include three computer labs, classroom computers and interactive classroom white boards. Within the congregation, he started a vacation Bible school program and administered it until the church called a full-time director of Christian education. Currently, he maintains the church website and produces both an electronic newsletter and campus posters. He works closely with his alma mater through the Joshua Program, an effort that brings teams of current teachers to Concordia to offer workshops for elementary teacher education students.
Church Leadership in Outreach Award
Kenneth Reiner of Ballwin, Mo., has witnessed to the love and grace of God around the world for more than 40 years, serving in a personal capacity as well as supporting other missionaries. Reiner earned a bachelor’s degree from Concordia in 1960 and began his international service in Nigeria as a teacher and headmaster soon afterwards. Reiner spent a total of 27 years in Nigeria. He currently uses his extensive in-the-field experience in the active support of missionaries as the missionary care manager at LCMS World Mission in St. Louis. Hundreds of Lutheran missionaries and their families scattered around the world have depended on him for ministry tools, prayer support and a caring voice at the other end of the phone line.
Partners in Mission and Ministry Award
Dr. Ralph and Anita Geisler have been partners in ministry for more than 45 years. Through the years, the pair has served churches and schools as well as offices of the LCMS in Kansas, Missouri, New York, Illinois and Nebraska. After graduating from Concordia in 1960, the Geislers moved to Kansas to start their teaching careers. Ralph, who also served as a principal, became a charter member of the Lutheran Education Association in 1964. While in New York, Ralph served as a director of Christian education and while in Illinois he worked on evangelism efforts in the Chicago area. In Nebraska, Anita opened a new preschool at King of Kings in Omaha. In 1990 the couple moved back to Missouri as Ralph began a position at the LCMS International Center as an associate director working with the Board of Congregational Services on evangelism and rural/small town ministry. Anita continued her ministry to children as a director of early childhood programs.
Lay Worker Alumnus of the Year
Col. K. Luke Reiner of Cheyenne, Wyo., uses his gifts for administration and military tactics to serve his country and the people of Wyoming in the state’s Army National Guard. Reiner graduated with academic distinction from Concordia in 1986 with a Bachelor of Arts in business and a Bachelor of Science in Education. With graduation also came a commission in the Army National Guard through Concordia’s joint ROTC program with the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. After working as a CPA for a few years, he became an active duty soldier assigned to the National Guard in 1991. He moved up through the ranks to his current position of commander of the 115th Field Artillery Brigade and as the Wyoming National Guard’s operations officer for all dedicated homeland security response forces in the state. He was deployed to the Persian Gulf in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2004 and has received many decorations. At Our Savior Lutheran Church in Cheyenne, Reiner serves as an elder.
Friend of Concordia
James Sanft of St. Louis, Mo., has demonstrated his deep friendship to Concordia and all church workers by using his gift for understanding finances, group insurance and employee benefits in multiple companies and roles. Graduating from Concordia in 1985, Sanft spent one year teaching and coaching and then joined the staff of Minnesota Mutual Life to begin his career in actuary, benefits and insurance. He joined Concordia Plan Services of the LCMS in 1999. Holding numerous positions, including executive vice president and chief operating officer, he was recently named president of the organization. During his time with CPS, Sanft designed multiple health plan options to offer employers flexibility and designed “The Church’s Plan” to reinforce the value of church workers and the concept of workers and employers working together in maintaining healthy lives. He also introduced a health and wellness program aimed at reducing the rate of cost increases while improving overall health across the church.
Honorary Alumni of the Year
Joyce Kaldahl of Oklahoma City, Okla., has been a vocal and financial supporter of Concordia for decades. A graduate of Dana College in 1957, Kaldahl went to work as a laboratory technician in hematology, supporting her husband Paul through his medical training and internship. Once he completed his schooling, she became a full-time homemaker and mother to their two children, Paul Jr. and Kristin. Kaldahl has been the choir director in her congregation for more than 25 years and is a member of the Canterbury Choral Society. She is active within the church’s prayer ministry as well. Kaldahl also provides foster care for puppies at the local shelter and works for animal adoption programs. When asked about her fondness for Concordia, she said, “I have been so encouraged to learn that Concordia is dedicated to the church workers’ programs and that it clings to solid Lutheran teachings.”
2007 alumni award recipients
Church Worker Alumnus of the Year AwardGordon Bredow of St. Peters, Mo., has spent more than 40 years serving students in Lutheran schools across the country. A 1964 graduate of Concordia, Bredow has been a teacher, athletic director and a coach for basketball, football, baseball and track at Lutheran high schools in Minnesota, Colorado, Texas and three schools in California. He currently teaches, coaches and directs the athletic program at Lutheran High School of St. Charles County, St. Peters, Mo.
Young Alumnus of the Year Award
Timothy Huntington of Lincoln, Neb., has progressed quickly in the field of forensic entomology, using his skills in biology and research to aid the police and federal government in their investigations. After graduating from Concordia in 2002, Huntington earned a master of science in entomology from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and is currently pursuing his doctorate. Earlier this year, Huntington passed a board certification examination, becoming the youngest member of the American Board of Forensic Entomology. He has received numerous awards and fellowships during his studies, and has published an article in the Journal of Forensic Sciences.
Church Leadership in Outreach Award
Duane and Rosemary Miller of Milwaukee, Wis., have invested themselves in the lives of children in their communities for more than 35 years. Living in Ohio, Iowa and Wisconsin, their methods of outreach have included expanding church youth programs, starting a neighborhood preschool, offering supplementary catechism classes, establishing teacher training programs and overseeing building programs. Currently serving at St. Martini Lutheran School in downtown Milwaukee, Duane was the author of a grant application that has brought in hundreds of thousands of dollars to develop the reading program at the chiefly Hispanic school. The Millers are 1970 graduates of Concordia.
Lay Worker Alumnus of the Year
Paul Kleine of Norman, Okla., has been a leader in education, psychology and educational research since graduating from Concordia in 1958. Beginning his career at a small school in Missouri, Kleine went on to teach and chair the division of education at the University of Wisconsin as well as teach and direct the Bureau of Educational Research Services at the University of Oklahoma. Among his many awards was a Fulbright lectureship in Portugal. He established a Habitat for Humanity chapter at the Univ. of Oklahoma while a faculty member and led construction trips for 16 years. He currently leads service-oriented construction trips to Tanzania and the Gulf region of the U.S.
Friend of Concordia
Marguerite Christman’s heartfelt friendship with Concordia is evident in all that she has done for the university and furthered through her support. Her gifts of her time and hospitality include everything from directing golf tournaments to housing traveling students from her alma mater. A 1967 graduate of Concordia, Christman spent just over 10 years teaching, substituting, coaching and working with educational media at schools in Arkansas, Nebraska and Oklahoma. Now living in Midwest City, Okla., she is deeply involved in the Lutheran Women’s Missionary League, including service on the national executive committee.
Lifetime Service Award
Dorothea and Raymond Huebschman of Seward, Neb., both graduates from Concordia in the early 60s, have more than 70 years of ministering to students between them, including Dottie’s 14 years at St. John Lutheran School in Seward and Ray’s many, many years at Concordia. The Huebschmans did not give up teaching after retirement, traveling to Indonesia with Lutheran World Mission to help in the devastated Banda Aceh region. They recently spent six months teaching both students and Indonesian teachers.
Honorary Alumni of the Year
Raymond Becker of Lincoln, Neb., was employed with First National Bank in Lincoln for 41 years, eventually becoming a vice president. He has also served as treasurer of the Wyuka Cemetary and treasurer of the Cedars Home for Children for more than 40 years. His contributions to Concordia extend beyond his energetic attendance at events to significant support of scholarships and capital projects on campus. Upon the occasion of his 100th birthday, he was given the Sower Award, Concordia’s highest honor for financial supporters.
Hugh Sieck Jr. of Lincoln, Neb., is the owner of H & S Plumbing in Lincoln and supporter of Concordia scholarships. A quick learner, he watched others in the industry when he was just starting out and gained the knowledge to run a successful business. Sieck has supported scholarships for Concordia students and he has contributed an entire lifetime of knowledge and superior workmanship on dozens of Concordia’s capital projects and has shared from his extensive knowledge during planning stages of university building and property development.
2006 alumni award recipients
Church Worker Alumnus of the Year Award
Dennis Hintz of Topeka, Kan., has served for more than 30 years as the director of Christian education at St. John Lutheran Church in Topeka, Kan. He serves a variety of educational needs at the congregation and works on worship planning, finances and Stephen Ministry training. Hintz is a 1971 graduate of Concordia and has served on the university’s Board of Regents for three terms.
Young Alumnus of the Year Award
Andrew Knudten of Broomfield, Colo., has served others as a teacher, volunteer, biologist and church member. Knudten also participates on the President’s Athletic Council and the steering committee for the football legacy scholarships at Concordia. He is a 1989 graduate of Concordia.
Partners in Mission and Ministry Award
Rev. David and Rachel Baker have served in Almaty, Kazakhstan since 2003. Their work includes organizing humanitarian aid programs, supporting and encouraging local Believers and sharing with those who still don't know the Good News. Both are 1998 graduates of Concordia.
Church Leadership in Outreach Award
Rev. Scott Schmieding of Baton Rouge, La., serves Trinity Lutheran Church and Baton Rouge Lutheran School as senior pastor. Reaching out has been a major focus in the past year as Schmieding and his congregation offered practical necessities, tuition-free schooling and summer camp opportunities to hundreds of people displaced by Hurricane Katrina. Schmieding is a 1987 graduate of Concordia.
Lay Worker of the Year Award: Linda Marquardt Witham of Ventura, Calif., has been a leader in education, human care and business over the past four decades, including teaching in Columbia and working with immigrants in Singapore. A 1972 graduate of Concordia, she is a managing partner for Thrivent Financial for Lutherans and volunteers her development advice to Los Angeles Lutheran High School.
Friends of Concordia Award
Drs. William and Judith Preuss of Seward, Neb., have been friends of Concordia and education for more than 40 years. Bill spearheaded the development of field experiences and student teaching methods at Concordia and established the university’s director of Christian education program. Judy chaired the education department, served as dean of the college of education and was named Outstanding Teacher of the Year at Concordia in 1980. The Preusses are 1960 graduates from Concordia.
Lifetime Service Award
Dr. Allan and Sandra Schmidt of Seward, Neb., have taught, consulted and administered in Maryland, Nebraska and China. Now based in Hong Kong, Allan serves as the director for the Asia Lutheran Education Association, and he and Sandy work to build support for the large number of Lutheran schools in the region. Sandy is a 1995 graduate of Concordia and Allan was the university’s secondary education director during the late ’80s and early ’90s.
Honorary Alumni of the Year
For the past seven years, Sharon Mason of Chicago, Ill., has worked closely with Concordia student teachers in their multicultural workshop sessions. Named Teacher of the Year in 2001 by the Chicagoland Lutheran Educational Foundation, Mason has more than 25 years of teaching experience. She serves as the assistant principal and teaches math at Luther South in Chicago.
Anthony Rainey of Chicago, Ill., also leads sessions in the university’s multicultural workshops, sharing from his career of frontline experience in education. At Luther South since 1983, Rainey has served as teacher, assistant principal and coach of multiple teams, and he is currently the principal and executive director. The Chicagoland Lutheran Educational Foundation named Rainey Teacher of the Year in 1999, and the Illinois High School Association has named him Coach of the Year six times.
2005 alumni award recipients
Church Worker Alumnus of the Year
Hugh McGhghy of Warsaw, Mo., has served the Lutheran Church since 1949, spending more than 20 years as both a teachor and pastor. He is a 1965 graduate of Concordia.
Lifetime Service Award
Fritzie Juergensen of Seward taught Sunday school and served as a member of the Concordia Guild, Tower Guild and Lutheran Women’s Missionary League. She has also served as head of the St. John Prayer Chain since its inception in 1982.
Lifetime Service Award
Norma Meyer of Seward has been active in service to the Lutheran Church for the past 78 years. She was a member of the Young Women’s League from 1946-62 and has served on the Ladies Aid since 1963.
Honorary Alumni Award
Mark and Suzanne Kolterman of Seward manage the Jones National Bank and Trust Co. insurance and investment department in Seward. Mark is a past member of the Concordia Board of Regents and a past president of the Concordia Foundation Board. Suzanne offers her time to the Madonna Rehabilitation Hospital Foundation Board in Lincoln.
Young Alumnus Award
Christina Hergenrader has written four novels of the Novel Devotions Series. She earned the Houston area Lutheran School’s Teacher of the Year in 2002. Hergenrader is a 1996 graduate of Concordia.
Church Leadership in Outreach Award
Moses Ngirailab serves as a math professor at Concordia, Selma, in Alabama, and also as a men’s and women’s basketball coach at the college. Ngirailab is a 1981 graduate of Concordia.
Lay Worker Alumnus of the Year
Dr. Edwin Gerler Jr. has spent nearly 40 years of service and leadership in education. He was selected as the 1991-92 Oustanding Teacher in the college of education and psychology at North Carolina State University, and he has been selected for membership in the North Carolina State University Academy of Outstanding Teachers. He is a 1967 graduate of Concordia.
2005 alumni award recipients
Friends of Concordia AwardLloyd and Ann Pooker both served six years on Concordia’s Alumni Council. Ann was the first-ever member to serve a two-year term as president of the council, while Lloyd spent one year in that capacity. The couple has been actively involved with the St. Louis Chapter of the alumni, has helped organize events and provided support for choir and athletic events in the St. Louis area. Lloyd and Ann are 1970 graduates of Concordia.
Mission and Ministry Award
Mark and Ruth Kempff have served in Venezuela and Panama since 1975. Mark has served in missions with the LCMS World Mission program, while Ruth was instrumental in forming a daycare and preschool program in Venezueula and now supports training programs in Panama. Mark is a 1974 graduate of Concordia.
2004 alumni award recipients
Young Alumnus Award
Dr. Jeffrey Stout of
Church Leadership in Outreach Award
Lois Voeltz of
Lifetime Service Award
Melvin and Arlene Lillich of
Lay Worker Alumna of the Year
Dr. Corine Schleif of Phoenix, Ariz., is a 1971 graduate and serves as associate professor at Arizona State University, where she has made a remarkable contribution in the area of art history not only in the classroom as an educator, but outside the classroom as an artist, author and lecturer.
Church Worker Alumnus of the Year
Ben Herbrich of
Friend of Concordia Award
Robert Reuter of
Honorary Alumni Award
C.W. and Ellie Allerheiligen of
