Concordia University, Nebraska scholar groups move into a new, shared space

This year, three of Concordia University, Nebraska’s four scholar groups, the Paul, Micah and Uzziah Scholars, will move into a new, shared space. Concordia’s Luke Scholars will continue to use the Luke Scholars Library in Jesse Hall. The new shared space will be located at 158 Faculty Lane in one of the old guest houses. The space will be referred to as the Koinonia House.

The name Koinonia House was inspired by the use of the Greek word koinonia, which can mean “communion” or “participation” (1 Corinthians 10:16,17), “fellowship” (1 John 1:7) or “partnership” (Philippians 1:5). Throughout the New Testament, koinonia is shown as the true community and fellowship that Christians share with one another because the Holy Spirit has made them partakers, or participants, with Christ through faith.

The Koinonia House will serve as a center for students from all three scholar programs to interact, collaborate and study effectively. The lower level of the house has been designed as a welcoming environment to promote community building. A small conference room is also available for meetings. The second floor of the building is where the faculty and staff offices are located.

"I am also excited about the opportunities for collaboration and cross-pollination between the students in the Micah, Uzziah and Paul Scholars academic communities. We already have joint events planned at the Koinonia House for the upcoming launch weekend and envision more joint events at the Koinonia House to come."

Micah Scholars director Dr. Teddie Genter stated that, "A Scholar Community House will help cultivate a community of academic excellence by providing scholars with a space to call their own where they can make memories and experience a real sense of belonging. It provides a setting for formal and informal gatherings that enhance a community of academic excellence--quiet (and possibly not so quiet) study halls, meetings, fellowship opportunities, guest speakers, service activities, clinical/practice/professional development workshops, a community garden, etc."

Kellie Nelson, the Uzziah Scholar director is excited to see how the space can help the group accomplish the mission and vision of their program. 

“How the mission and vision will be accomplished is through community building with one another, a collective space to call home, easy access to the director for additional support when needed and many other benefits.”

"I am also excited about the opportunities for collaboration and cross-pollination between the students in the Micah, Uzziah and Paul Scholars academic communities. We already have joint events planned at Koinonia House for the upcoming launch weekend and envision more joint events at Koinonia House to come," said Genter.

Concordia University, Nebraska’s scholar programs offer cultivated, focused academic communities on campus to help you find meaning and connection with your peers, develop your character and convictions and inspire deeper learning in topics you care about. Learn more about the scholar programs here.