Experience at Concordia Nebraska prepared Michael Heidtbrink ’78 for current service

Michael Heidtbrink ’78 grew up in Malcom, Nebraska, in what he calls a “devoted Lutheran” household, so he said choosing to attend Concordia University, Nebraska was an easy choice for him. He has a bachelor of science in education, biology and chemistry from the university and also has a master’s degree in secondary administration from San Diego State University. 

He fondly recalls his time at Concordia Nebraska and said there are so many special memories, it’s hard to nail down a favorite moment. 

“I recall being a yell leader with the cheer team for football,” he said. “One of my responsibilities was to get Max the English Bulldog team mascot for football games from Professor Daenzer, who was my student advisor as well as a great man. I had lots of fun times taking care of Max at football games.”  

He also said he enjoyed running track for four years and felt blessed to have Christian professors who cared for their students in and out of the classroom. 

“And it didn’t hurt that the ratio of girls to boys was two to one,” he laughed. “I may never have met my wife Elaine if the odds were even!” 

Following graduation, Mike taught fifth grade for one year in Belle Glade, Florida, then was called to teach at Lutheran High School of San Diego (now called Victory Christian Academy). He served for 11 years as a teacher and for 20 years as boys’ head basketball coach. 

Mike said the experience of teaching high school prepared him for the work of Thrivent financial consultant, a role that he enjoys today. 

“Whether I’m teaching my clients how to be wise with money, how to prepare for risks or how to be generous to others, it makes me think of my experience at Concordia Nebraska,” he said. “I find it fulfilling to help my clients be prepared for the unexpected, whether it’s life, health or financial hardships."

“Seward holds a very special place in our heart for many reasons.” 

Mike’s wife, Elaine (Malotky) Heidtbrink ’79, also served as a Lutheran school teacher for a time following graduation. Today, they are both very active in their church. Elaine serves as an organist and Mike serves as head lay minister. Elaine provides administrative support for Mike in his Thrivent work. 

Mike and his championship basketball team were inducted into the Victory Christian Academy Hall of Fame in February 2025.  

“This marked the 40th anniversary of a team that dedicated their season to our son, Aaron, who was in the children’s hospital his entire life of 16 months before his passing from heart failure,” explained Mike. “Seven members of the ’84 team returned for the ceremonies. It was a memorable event, and good to catch up with players of whom some we had not seen in 40 years.” 

The Heidtbrinks have five children,  Seth ’10, Shenoah, Samuel, Sierra and Aaron.  

“All attended Christ Lutheran for elementary school in La Mesa. Three attended Lutheran high school in San Diego. Sierra attended Foothills Christian in El Cajon California. And Seth attended Concordia Nebraska,” said Mike. “I would argue that my time at Concordia Nebraska and meeting Elaine has been very beneficial to the Lutheran education system!” 

When he’s not working, Mike loves to golf and fish, but said he rarely gets to, because Elaine keeps him busy with her two horses, six goats, 36 chickens, seven dogs, one cat and five acres to maintain. 

“After graduation, we had no idea where God would call us to teach. We did know that Nebraska would always be in the middle of the United States no matter where we would be teaching,” said Mike. “Aaron’s final resting place is in Seward, and we have our two grave sites set aside next to him for when that day comes. Seward holds a very special place in our heart for many reasons.” 

At Concordia University, Nebraska, our mission to equip men and women for lives of learning, service and leadership extends far beyond campus. We strive to create a clear and compelling picture and plan for living out our mission while reaching, serving and blessing audiences beyond the campus community with the knowledge, wisdom and gifts of the Concordia community.