Concordia holds commencement and baccalaureate ceremonies

Concordia held its 105th commencement ceremony Saturday, May 5, in the Walz Human Performance Complex.
The speaker for the ceremony was Dr. Charlyne Berens, associate dean at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln College of Journalism. Dr. Berens also received the Doctor of Letters degree from Concordia.
In addition to Berens, four other individuals received honorary degrees and awards during commencement. Those receiving the honors were Dennis Scheer, the Distinguished Service Award, Lauren Sommerer, the Master Educator Award, Rev. Albert Wingfield, the Doctor of Letters degree, and Marilyn Walz, the Crest of Christ Award.
Concordia alumni celebrating the 50th anniversary of their graduation year were also recognized.
The ceremony was webcast live. For more information, visit www.cune.edu.
On Friday, May 4, a baccalaureate service was held at St. John Lutheran Church. Rev. Ryan Matthias, campus pastor, served as preacher. The liturgist was Rev. David Lyons, pastor at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Schaller, Iowa.
Music for the ceremony was provided by Concordia Professor of Music Dr. Jeffrey Blersch, the University A Cappella Choir, conducted by Professor of Music Dr. Kurt von Kampen and the Concordia Brass Ensemble, conducted by Dr. Wendy Schultz.
Following the service a reception was hosted at the church by Concordia’s Tower Guild, and a short concert was given by the University A Cappella Choir and several organ students.
See also: Commencement information for May 2012