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Title: Augsburg Now Summer 2016: Carving the Way Forward
Collection: Alumni Magazine Collection
Search Result: Beyond the scoreboard National champion to local hero Leadership and conflict CARVING WAY THE FORWARD SUMMER 2016 | VOL. 78, NO. 3 INSIDE AUGSBURG NOW AUGSBURG NOW Vice President of Marketing and Communication Rebecca John ’13 MBA rjohn@augsburg.edu Summer 2016 Director of News a...
Show more Beyond the scoreboard National champion to local hero Leadership and conflict CARVING WAY THE FORWARD SUMMER 2016 | VOL. 78, NO. 3 INSIDE AUGSBURG NOW AUGSBURG NOW Vice President of Marketing and Communication Rebecca John ’13 MBA rjohn@augsburg.edu Summer 2016 Director of News and Media Services Stephanie Weiss weisss@augsburg.edu NOTES FROM PRESIDENT PRIBBENOW On thoughtful stewardship Director of Marketing Communication Stephen Jendraszak jendra@augsburg.edu Communication Copywriter and Editorial Coordinator Augsburg’s mission statement says that we educate students to be “thoughtful stewards” as well as “informed citizens, critical thinkers, and responsible leaders.” I imagine some may read “thoughtful stewards” and think about church fundraising campaigns or care for the environment, the typical places we consider stewardship—and both important causes! At Augsburg, though, thoughtful stewardship is a much more compelling claim. It goes beyond simple acts of giving or environmental care. It is a way of living, an ethic that teaches us how to live in the world. And it is at the heart of an Augsburg education—from how we engage students with the community to help them discern their gifts and gain a holistic understanding of the needs of our world (see page 16) to the deep listening and conversation we embed in our classes, such as in the Master of Arts in Leadership course that was integrated with this year’s Nobel Peace Prize Forum (see page 20). Also in this issue of Augsburg Now, you will read about the genuine privilege I had to deliver a major address on stewardship to Cargill employees worldwide. In that address, I said: “… stewardship involves a practice of standing up, speaking up in a manner that reflects—and makes clear—our values. The challenge for the good steward—as a parent or manager or citizen—is to pursue practices that help connect us with the deeply held values and commitments that characterize our personal and corporate lives. “The truth is that many people do not think about the reasons for their actions. They act, and they expect others to accept their action at face value. But good stewardship demands reflection, then the courage to act based on our convictions, and to do so overtly so that we are publicly accountable for how our actions reflect our values. Only in that link is there integrity in human life.” At Augsburg—as reflected in the stories that follow in these pages—we educate students to embrace their many gifts, to understand the obligations they have to steward those gifts, and to appreciate the important work of taking a stand for the values and commitments that honor the gifts and contributions of each of us. Thoughtful stewardship—a way of life for all of us. I give thanks for a teaching and learning community that is blessed with and inspired by our remarkable legacy and mission. I give thanks for the privilege of being a faithful steward of all the gifts that make Augsburg such a rare place. Faithfully yours, Laura Swanson Lindahl ’15 MBA swansonl@augsburg.edu Creative Associate Denielle Johnson ’11 johnsod@augsburg.edu Marketing Copywriter Christina Haller haller@augsburg.edu Production Manager Mark Chamberlain chamberm@augsburg.edu Photographer Stephen Geffre geffre@augsburg.edu Advancement Communication Specialist Jen Lowman Day dayj@augsburg.edu Contributor Ryan Nichols ’16 augsburg.edu Augsburg Now is published by Augsburg College 2211 Riverside Ave. Minneapolis, MN 55454 Opinions expressed in Augsburg Now do not necessarily reflect official College policy. PAUL C. PRIBBENOW, PRESIDENT Nobel Peace Prize Laureate Kailash Satyarthi brought energy and passion to the 2016 Nobel Peace Prize Forum sponsored by Augsburg College. Following three days of dialogue on peacebuilding, he and his wife, Sumedha Kailash, joined Forum attendees in a Bollywood-style dance party for the conference’s finale. 02 Around the quad 20 Leadership and conflict 08 From national hampion to local hero 23 Auggies connect 14 Beyond the scoreboard 27 Class notes 16 The city: Course content and classroom 32 In memoriam ISSN 1058-1545 Send address corrections to: alumniupdate@augsburg.edu. On the cover: Construction crews work on the footings for the main lobby of the Norman and Evangeline Hagfors Center for Science, Business, and Religion, an interdisciplinary building that will open in 2018, anchoring the west side of the Augsburg College campus. See page 2. Email: now@augsburg.edu All photos by Stephen Geffre unless otherwise indicated. FROM THE GROUND THIS BUG’S-EYE VIEW captures the April 2016 groundbreaking ceremony for Augsburg’s Norman and Evangeline Hagfors Center for Science, Business, and Religion. The celebration included hundreds of Augsburg College alumni, students, donors, neighbors, and faculty and staff members, as well as city and county officials. The new academic building is slated to open in January 2018. 2 Augsburg Now Pictured [L to R]: Outgoing Augsburg College Board of Regents Chair Dr. Paul Mueller ’84, Hennepin County Commissioner Peter McLaughlin, Naming Gift Donors Evangeline Hagfors and Norman Hagfors, Augsburg College President Paul C. Pribbenow, National Fundraising Campaign Chair Michael Good ’71, Augsburg College Provost Karen Kaivola, and 2015-16 Day Student Body President Duina Hernandez ’16. Summer 2016 3 AROUND THE QUAD $50,000 grant funds RECYCLING PROGRAM EXPANSION Student-faculty-staff collaboration improves campus sustainability D A U Q E H T D N U O AR NEW RESIDENTS HONORING Retiring Faculty SET MEMORIAL HALL KATHY ACCURSO ABUZZ Instructor, Department of Education— with the College since 2012 KATHERINE BAUMGARTNER Assistant Professor, Department of Nursing—with the College since 2005 Hives installed to bolster honey bee population RONALD FEDIE It has been decades since the last students moved out of Memorial Hall; the dormitory was converted to office space in the late 1960s. However, a new group of inhabitants moved in this spring when The Beez Kneez organization installed beehives on the building’s rooftop as part of an urban apiary partnership program. Augsburg joined the program to further the College’s commitment to environmental stewardship and to creating green spaces within the city. Recently, honey bee populations have been decreasing due to parasites and the misuse of pesticides. The on-campus hives will help rebuild the local population and pollinate Augsburg’s plant life. Those worried about getting stung can rest easy—honey bees are not aggressive and will not sting unless threatened. 4 Augsburg Now Professor Emeritus, Department of Chemistry—with the College since 1996 FEKRI MEZIOU Professor Emeritus, Department of Business Administration—with the College since 1987 VICKI OLSON Professor Emerita, Department of Education—with the College since 1987 CELEBRATING STUDENT Augsburg College can boost its efforts to divert organic and compostable items from trash and other recycling thanks to a $50,000 recycling grant from the Hennepin County Environment and Energy Department. The funding will be used to purchase indoor and outdoor bins, rolling carts, and signage to foster increased composting of organic material and the proper disposal of mixed recyclables. Go to augsburg.edu/green to learn about Augsburg’s Environmental Augsburg’s commitment to offering facilities that are welcoming, sustainable, Stewardship Committee, Facilities and and designed for educational excellence. Custodial staff, and the Augsburg Day Student Government’s Environmental Action Committee collaborated to submit the grant proposal. “Thousands of people touch the campus in some way during the course of one year,” said Amber Lewis ’17 MAE, an Environmental Stewardship Fellow who supports on-campus sustainability initiatives. “In addition to students, faculty, and staff, guests join our community for graduation ceremonies, sporting events, performances, convocations, summer camps, conferences, and workshops. This presents us with an opportunity to share a clear message about the importance of recycling in our community.” SUCCESS Read about the wide range of prestigious academic achievements and awards earned by Auggies during the 2015-16 year at augsburg.edu/now. AUGSBURG EXHIBITION SHINES in Guerrilla Girls Twin Cities Takeover World-renowned feminist art activists the Guerrilla Girls recently “took over” Minneapolis and St. Paul to celebrate their 30th anniversary. Augsburg College was among more than two dozen arts and cultural institutions that hosted exhibits and events highlighting gender and race inequalities and promoting artistic expression. The Guerrilla Girls, who wear gorilla masks and use the names of famous female artists as pseudonyms, were on campus for the opening reception of “Reconfiguring Casta,” a site-specific installation for the Christensen Center Art Gallery. Combining prints and paintings, artist Maria Cristina Tavera addressed the social concept of race and the issue of socio-racial classifications. Tavera, known on campus as “Tina,” also serves as the director of Augsburg’s McNair Scholars program, which seeks to increase graduate degree awards for students from underrepresented segments of society. Augsburg College President Paul C. Pribbenow delivered the keynote address for Cargill’s annual ethics week this spring. Pribbenow is recognized as one of the nation’s most engaging commentators and teachers on ethics, philanthropy, and American public life. His talk, “Promises to Keep: An Ethic of Stewardship,” reached Cargill employees located in Minneapolis and around the world. Summer 2016 5 AROUND THE QUAD ON THE SPOT What does it mean to matter? What does it look like to matter? With the Black Lives Matter movement, questions of racial equity have ignited important—and difficult— conversations in communities and courtrooms, on political campaign trails, and on college campuses. Augsburg College Professor William “Bill” Green studies and writes about history and law. His most recent book, “Degrees of Freedom: The Origins of Civil Rights in Minnesota, 1865–1912,” chronicles conditions for African American Minnesotans and others in the half-century following the Civil War. Today, Minnesota and the nation are very different than they were in the postbellum period that Green examined, but tightly woven threads unite contemporary events with those occurring more than a century earlier. COMMENCEMENT 2016 Students of color, award winners, and former KARE 11 anchor stand out at graduation Augsburg College celebrated students completing degrees in the traditional undergraduate, adult undergraduate, and graduate programs through commencement ceremonies held April 30. The 2016 traditional undergraduate class is the most diverse in the College’s history and comprised of more than 42 percent students of color. Commencement keynote speaker Michael Botticelli, director of the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy, addressed ceremony attendees and was awarded an honorary doctorate. Michael Good ’71 also was awarded an honorary degree in recognition of his service to the College. Eleanor Barr ’16 earned the Marina Christensen Justice Award, and Kim Chisholm ’16 received this year’s Richard Thoni Award, recognizing exceptional contributions to their communities. Teaching and learning award winners Augsburg recognizes individuals or groups who have made exemplary contributions to creating an engaging academic learning environment. The 2016 recipients of the Distinguished Contributions to Teaching and Learning awards are: Teaching Former KARE 11 News anchor Diana Pierce ’16 MAL earned her Masters of Arts in Leadership and participated in commencement this spring. “The program at Augsburg gave me exactly what I wanted to add to my skillset for a new adventure,” Pierce said on KARE 11 in April. Joe Underhill, associate professor of political science Research Michael Lansing, associate professor and History Department chair Service Dulce Monterrubio, director of Latin@ Student Services 6 Augsburg Now Q: What prompted your interest in studying the history of African Americans in Minnesota? A: In 1860, a slave woman was freed in a Minneapolis courtroom. In the aftermath, citizens in the communities of St. Anthony and Minneapolis for days walked the streets eyeing their neighbors, waiting for the smallest provocation to spark violence. We were on the verge of seeing our own little civil war erupt in Minnesota over the issue of slavery. Ultimately, Minnesotans’ attention was averted by news of the Confederate bombardment of the federal installation of Fort Sumter. Upon hearing the news, Minnesota was the first state to send volunteers into the Union Army. Seven years later, it would be the first state to extend voting rights to black men, pre-dating the ratification of the 15th Amendment. I felt compelled to understand this dynamic. Q: When Minnesota granted suffrage to people who are black, what implications did this have in citizens’ lives? ELCA college conference Students, faculty members, and staff from two dozen colleges and universities affiliated with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America came together this summer as Augsburg hosted the annual Vocation of a Lutheran College Conference. The event featured a partnership with Interfaith Youth Core—an organization renowned for uniting young people of different religious and moral traditions for dialogue around shared values. IFYC Founder Eboo Patel [pictured speaking] discussed the colleges’ role in preparing students for life in a religiously diverse world. ‘Degrees of Freedom’ in Minnesota’s past and present A: [L to R]: Michael Lansing, Dulce Monterrubio, and Joe Underhill. In a practical sense, the implications were non-existent. There simply weren’t enough black voters in Minnesota to influence political leaders or affect public policy. Symbolically, however, during a time of mounting economic dislocation coupled with the spread of white supremacy, it raised the bar, not just in terms of the broader virtue of racial equality, but, more fundamentally, stressing the need for true leadership that called on ordinary people to overcome their baser instincts and choose to act with common decency. Q: And yet you’ve said that race is “written between the lines” of early Minnesota history, rather than spoken about directly. What do you mean? A: The fact that the black population was so small made it easy for historians and opinion makers to draw rosy pictures of racial exceptionalism without needing to be checked by a more balanced reality. Without the “significant other” whose history was hidden in footnotes, it became easy to believe what one wanted to believe. But could it really be true that Dred Scott was the only slave to live in Minnesota? Could Frederick Douglass be the only African American to be denied service in a prestigious hotel in St. Paul, even though the proprietor was a friend of his and an officer in the Union Army? Could the paucity of discrimination lawsuits in the 19th century really mean there was no discrimination in restaurants and taverns? Q: Today’s Black Lives Matter movement involves participatory democracy— participation by many and with more diffuse leadership than the civil rights movements of the 1960s. When you look at the Black Lives Matter movement, what strikes you, considering the lens through which you write your books? A: In 1965 when the civil rights movement pressed for voting rights, the powerful symbolism of Martin Luther King and Malcolm X joining forces placed pressure on the President of the United States to shepherd through Congress the Voting Rights bill and sign it into law. Federal protection of the right to vote was a moral issue. But it was the union of two leaders who embodied opposing approaches to advancing civil rights that heightened a sense of urgency to enact the bill. The moral: As long as there are no “inside”-“outside” forces simultaneously working for the same clearly defined issue, advocates on either side of the spectrum can be marginalized and eventually dismissed. I don’t see a rival force to Black Lives Matter that is pushing for the same ends but through different means. This isn’t the fault of BLM, but the absence of a “significant other” should be a concern to them, nonetheless. History can only provide suggestions on how or even whether to proceed. The Minnesota Book Awards honored Green with the 2016 Hognander Minnesota History Award. Go to augsburg.edu/now to learn more about Green’s research. Summer 2016 7 Devean George ’99 was the first NCAA Division III player ever selected in the first round of the NBA Draft—and he played professionally for more than a decade. Now retired from basketball, he’s gone back to his roots to help revitalize the Minneapolis neighborhood where he grew up. BY CHRISTINA HALLER 8 Augsburg Now November 3, 1999. The Los Angeles Lakers are debuting in their brand new home, the Staples Center, with an unveiling ceremony followed by a game against the Vancouver Grizzlies. A crowd of 20,000 fans is packed inside, waiting for NBA stars Kobe Bryant or Shaquille O’Neal to make opening remarks. But instead, the Lakers players decide to encourage their newest rookie to address the crowd. The lights go down, and all becomes still. In less than 30 seconds, it’s go time. “No, guys, don’t make me do this! I don’t know what to do,” whispers a 22-year-old Devean George ’99. But his pleas were met with laughter. “I just remember shaking in my boots. There are tens of thousands of people here, and I’m going to be out at center court—all eyes on me,” recalls George. “So I get out there, and it just clicked. It was easy.” George credits his education in communication studies from Augsburg for helping to prepare him for that life-changing moment, as well as all of his public speaking engagements from that point forward. “As an NBA player, you have a camera with that big, red light in front of your face every day,” George said. “You have to know how to conduct yourself and communicate effectively. And all those communication classes I took at Augsburg come into play.” After high school, George enrolled at Augsburg assuming he would play basketball for the Auggies, earn a degree, and find a job in business. But his “hoop dreams” became a reality pretty early on in his Augsburg career. “When I recruited Devean, he was about 6'2" and 170 pounds,” said former Augsburg basketball coach Brian Ammann ’85. “Fortunately for Devean, he grew about five inches and put on 50 pounds by his sophomore year. And his hard work paid off in big ways.” George was the first NCAA Division III player ever selected in the first round of the NBA Draft. He was the 23rd overall pick in 1999, chosen by the Los Angeles Lakers—one of the most storied franchises in NBA history. George is now retired from the NBA after playing 11 seasons and becoming only the seventh player in history to win a league championship in each of his first three seasons. He has since found a successful career in real estate development and a passion for giving back. George played for the Los Angeles Lakers from 1999 to 2006. In 2006, he signed with the Dallas Mavericks and played in Texas until 2009. He then joined the Golden State Warriors in Oakland, California, in 2009 until his retirement in 2010. George was raised by devoted, hardworking parents in the Willard-Hay neighborhood of north Minneapolis and still calls the Twin Cities home — a place he loves for its friendly people and four seasons. His current work focuses on helping to improve his childhood community. 10 Augsburg Now Summer 2016 11 After George joined the NBA, he started volunteering his time in schools and after-school programs. He noticed many of the children he visited didn’t have stable housing, which significantly affected their security and education. “That’s when I decided helping kids and families would be the foundation of what I do,” said George, who has two young sons. He founded Building Blocks, a nonprofit organization committed to providing quality housing, community development, and programming for youth and families. “If you don’t have stable housing, you’re not going to care about schooling, safety, or eating healthy. If we get those families into stable housing, then they can focus on those other things,” George said. George’s first affordable housing project opened this spring—The Commons at Penn in north Minneapolis, an income-restricted, 47-unit workforce apartment building that also includes an on-site health and wellness facility, an after-school program, a fitness center, a toddler playground, and a grocery store. Long-term, George would like to help create a more family-friendly community in north Minneapolis—a community that provides greater amenities for its residents. So far, The Commons at Penn has been a successful addition to the neighborhood. “[The] Commons at Penn achieves multiple city goals: creating new, highquality, affordable housing options [and] increased residential density along a key commercial and transit corridor, and bringing in commercial activity and services,” said Andrea Brennan, director of Housing Policy and Development for the City of Minneapolis. “This project sets us on a promising course to continue development at this important north Minneapolis node.” George is planning phase two of The Commons at Penn, which will go up right across the street from the existing mixed-use building. He also is developing housing complexes in South Carolina and Louisiana, and has been contacted by fellow professional athletes who would like to see a change in the neighborhoods where they were raised. In addition to literally helping build a solid foundation for families through stable housing, George also helps build a strong foundation for young people through mentorship programs like Read to Achieve. “The kids think that [NBA players] are not human beings because we know how to play basketball,” said George. “If I can tell a kid to go to school and not to do drugs, and just because I can play basketball he’ll listen to me, I’m going to try to use that to my advantage.” George is also busy instilling the values of compassion and service in his own two sons, ages 7 and 4. For starters, they learn to share by donating their toys to kids who otherwise wouldn’t have any. “They’re still young, but I started teaching my boys early on a way of giving and understanding. I explain to them that this [lifestyle] isn’t normal; they’re in a blessed situation,” George said. “I’ve been able to achieve a lot of things. But I know I’ve had a lot of help along the way.” 12 Augsburg Now WORKFORCE HOUSING offers reduced rent to people who are gainfully employed (and don’t qualify as low-income), yet still struggle to afford market-rate housing. It’s explained by the Urban Land Institute as housing that is “affordable to families earning 60 to 100 percent of area median income.” Workforce housing commonly is targeted for essential workers in a community, such as police officers, firefighters, teachers, social workers, and nurses. Summer 2016 13 BY STEPHEN GEFFRE AND LAURA SWANSON LINDAHL ’15 MBA THE CITY: COURSE CONTENT AND CLASSROOM Each semester, painting and drawing classes typically occur in what originally was an Augsburg College chapel. Old Main 100 is an inspiring place with 25-foot ceilings and soaring windows. On-campus studios offer focused spaces for students to learn about visual art media, methods, and creative expression. For 25 years, Associate Professor and Art Department Co‑Chair Tara Sweeney has taught foundational drawing principles in Old Main with what she calls “as few spectators and distractions as possible,” and in recent years she also has led short-term international travel courses in which students develop the same skills without the support of a traditional studio. This spring, Sweeney and her Minneapolis-based students traveled close to home as they stepped beyond the boundaries of the campus studio, choosing to forgo a controlled setting to embrace learning opportunities present in public areas that are as complex and challenging as they are diverse. “Instead of creating a still life with the same old props, I utilized the city as subject matter and classroom,” Sweeney said. “Students were as actively engaged in creative placemaking as they were in making drawings — effectively shaping the physical and social character of whatever neighborhood, museum, coffee shop, or landmark we chose as a drawing site.” A CORE CHALLENGE In the article “The Power of Experiential Education,” nationally recognized education scholar and professor Janet Eyler noted that a central challenge for liberal arts educators like Sweeney—and indeed the entire Augsburg College faculty—is to “design learning environments and instruction so that students will be able to use what they learn in appropriate new contexts.” That is, to successfully “bridge classroom study and life in the world and to transform inert knowledge into knowledge-in-use.” In a drawing course, for instance, students develop technical skills while exploring individual subject matter and creative expression. It is perhaps the latter of these elements that came into clearer focus when Sweeney took her students out in the community. The artists “made connections with strangers and learned things about themselves in the process,” Sweeney said. They become comfortable creating art in the midst of daily life and finished the course with “real skills and the right tools to continue drawing wherever they find themselves and wherever inspiration finds them.” JUST A GLIMPSE At Augsburg, students across disciplines and degree programs benefit from faculty instruction that integrates experiential learning opportunities with traditional instructional methods, thereby linking course concepts with real-world applications. The pages that follow offer a glimpse at a small sample of the faculty and students who use Minneapolis as their classroom. 16 Augsburg Now Johanna Goggins ’16 works on a sketch in the solarium at the American Swedish Institute in Minneapolis. Summer 2016 17 ARTS AND THE CITIES ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE ENV 120: Students clad in safety gear and earplugs to dampen the deafening noise weave their way through a Eureka Recycling processing plant. Environmental Science focuses on understanding and resolving problems humans have created in the natural world. The course includes hands-on learning opportunities that make complex scientific concepts more approachable and applicable for students. “The city is the perfect place for these types of experiences to happen—it’s all right at our fingertips: a wastewater treatment plant, power plant, recycling center, and public transit,” said Assistant Professor of Biology and Environmental Studies Emily Schilling. “We can observe the detrimental effects humans are having on the environment, and we also can see some of the ways we are trying to mitigate that impact.” MIS 375: HON 230: Students in Augsburg College’s Honors Program join Minnesota Orchestra performers onstage following a symphony event at Orchestra Hall. As an interdisciplinary course, “Arts and the Cities” unites film, music, theater, and visual art — offering students the chance to peruse Picassos, soak in Shakespeare, and mingle with musicians. Together, students and teachers explore the role of the arts in a culturally dynamic urban setting. “Students enjoy the experiential nature of this course,” said Associate Professor of Music Merilee Klemp ’75. “They often comment that it presents them with opportunities that they would not have on their own and deepens their understanding of the role of the arts in their lives long after the course is over.” 18 Augsburg Now E-COMMERCE Students speak with Abdirahman Mukhtar, a youth program manager at Pillsbury United Communities’ Brian Coyle Center. Mukhtar oversees the Sisterhood Boutique, a secondhand clothing store that serves as a training ground for young women to learn about entrepreneurship, business, community partnerships, and sustainable fashion. Through their discussions with Mukhtar, the Auggies began to apply some of their fundamental course concepts in a real-world setting. Summer 2016 19 2016 NOBEL PEACE PRIZE FORUM LEADERSHIP & CONFLICT BY REBECCA JOHN ’13 MBA 2014 Nobel Peace Prize Laureate Kailash Satyarthi shared his vision for global compassion during the Nobel Peace Prize Forum. More than 300 students, academics, activists, and thought leaders participated in three days of discussion and presentations to advance peacebuilding. O R G A NI ZI NG PA RT N E RS 20 Augsburg Now MED IA SPO N SO R GRADUATE STUDENTS STUDY GLOBAL COMPASSION AT THE 2016 NOBEL PEACE PRIZE FORUM Conflict is a pervasive characteristic of human interaction. This is the opening line of the summer syllabus for Augsburg College’s Master of Arts in Leadership course, “Navigating Local & Global Conflict: Interfaith Dimensions.” The statement underscores how important it is for leaders to develop the ability to navigate and inspire others in the face of conflict and sets the stage for the work of analyzing leadership in the context of real-world situations. By design, the course is integrated with the annual Nobel Peace Prize Forum, for which Augsburg is the host sponsor. “The Nobel Peace Prize Forum is a gem,” said history and leadership studies professor Jacqueline deVries. It’s a oneof-a-kind event that allows students to learn through direct engagement about the contexts and complexities involved in conflict. deVries, who also serves as director for Augsburg’s general education program, co-taught the course with Martha Stortz, Bernhard M. Christensen Professor of Religion and Vocation, and Tom Morgan, professor of leadership studies. Held annually in Minneapolis, the Nobel Peace Prize Forum is one of only three programs officially associated with the Norwegian Nobel Institute. The Forum’s mission is to inspire peacemaking by focusing on the work of Nobel Peace Prize laureates and by engaging students and the wider community with national and global leaders in the process of peacebuilding. The Forum provided the students in the graduate course with direct access to leaders from businesses, nonprofits, and government organizations whose work involves navigating complex, real-world challenges that range from food security to civil unrest to poverty and climate change. The students used examples from the Forum, as well as from their own lives, to analyze conflict involving religious diversity in their communities, examine contemporary issues in a historical perspective, and develop a view on what effective leadership looks like (or might look like) in actual situations. Students come to the Master’s of Arts in Leadership program with experience PEACEB U ILD IN G PARTN ER- SPONSORS Summer 2016 21 AUGGIES CONNECT Martin Olav Sabo ’59 leaves mark on Augsburg College community in both for-profit and not-for-profit organizations. In gathering during a lunch break to share reflections about what they were learning at the Forum, the class observed that it is not possible to be effective as a leader without knowing what’s going on in the world. The Forum, they said, was a prompt for thinking about how a leader would approach addressing challenging topics and situations in their work. Too often, people are so wrapped up with their jobs and family and school that they don’t think about the difficulties others are facing in the world. It’s not that people don’t care about these topics, one student said, but they often just don’t pay attention to the issues on a daily basis. Being at the Forum offered a level of understanding that may not happen in a classroom, the students said. In fact, during the Forum the students directly engaged with difficult topics, and it required a conscious choice to hear the tragic stories about topics like child slavery and human trafficking. This is where our general population may be falling short, one student observed—choosing to turn away instead of understanding the reality of these issues. The Master of Arts in Leadership program, however, equips individuals to turn toward—rather than away from— challenging issues in order to seek solutions and inspire others toward a common goal. The program is designed to prepare leaders who are ethically and morally responsible, who can see beyond immediate concerns, and who are sensitive to the complex problems that organizations face. By using the Nobel Peace Prize Forum as a classroom, these students worked to understand both the systems that contribute to conflict and the systems that effective leaders can use to address it. “WE HAVE TO CHANGE THE DEMAND” Top [L to R]: Dean Jarrow ’16 MAL and Dele Odiachi ’17 MAL Bottom: [L to R]: Jacqueline deVries; Margaret PowellMack ’17 MAL; Kevin Stirtz ’17 MAL; Subashini Ambrose ’18 MAL; Tom Morgan; Eric Miamen ’04, ’14 MBA, ’16 MAL; David Nyssen ’16 MBA, ’17 MAL; Nobel Laureate Kailash Satyarthi; Howie Smith ’80, ’19 MAL; Satyarthi’s wife, Sumedha Kailash; MAL Director Alan Tuchtenhagen; and Brad Beeskow ’17 MAL. 22 Augsburg Now For example, some students thought that business was potentially the most powerful force for addressing the issues discussed at the Forum; others argued that the biggest changes will come when consumers demand it, quoting comments by Nobel Laureate Kailash Satyarthi, who, in his opening remarks, said, “We have to change the demand.” Another student observed that every person has a powerful “what’s in it for me” filter and noted that, if we don’t translate the message in a way that addresses this filter, it will not be effective. And, although the class agreed, the students also recognized that people are often motivated not just by what benefits them directly, but also by generosity and helping others—by what, as one student phrased it, satisfies a need of the heart. BY STEPHANIE WEISS Former U.S. Representative Martin Olav Sabo ’59, who passed away on March 13 at age 78, was a lifelong public servant and renowned Augsburg College alumnus who exemplified the progressive approach and personal integrity that were modeled in his Lutheran upbringing and education. The work he and his wife, Sylvia, devoted to guiding the Martin Olav Sabo Center for Democracy and Citizenship, the Sabo Scholars program, and the annual Sabo Symposium—all of which create opportunities for civic experiences and skillbuilding inside and outside the classroom—will leave a lasting legacy at Augsburg. Augsburg College President Paul C. Pribbenow said that Sabo’s “life-long commitment to public service is an inspiration to all of us. The Sabo Center gives Augsburg the ongoing opportunity to celebrate the life and work of our dear friend.” One year after graduating from Augsburg College, Sabo—then 22—was elected to serve in the Minnesota House of Representatives. During his tenure, he became the first member of the Democrat-Farmer-Labor party to serve as Speaker of the House—a post he held from 1973-78. He went on to serve for 28 years as a member of the U.S. House of Representatives, retiring in 2007. At the same time that Sabo served in Congress, he volunteered 12 years to Augsburg College as a member of the Board of Regents. The College named Sabo a Distinguished Alumnus and awarded him its first-ever honorary degree. Sabo was distinguished in all he undertook and, in 2006, was appointed Commander of the Royal Norwegian Order of Merit for outstanding work and dedication to NorwegianAmerican relations. Congressman Sabo and Sylvia Sabo are parents of Auggies Karin Mantor ’86 and Julie Sabo ’90. Summer 2016 23 AUGGIES CONNECT New to the Alumni Board Five Auggies elected to serve three-year terms on the Augsburg College Alumni Board will network with and mentor current Auggies, build community with alumni, and provide a vital link between the College and graduates. TRAVEL IN THAILAND AND CAMBODIA JANUARY 3-15, 2017 To learn more, go to augsburg.edu/alumni/travel. Derek Francis ’08 School counselor, Minneapolis Public Schools “Through the awesome community and volunteer opportunities at Augsburg, I realized I was passionate about working with youth. Augsburg’s value of service to the community transformed my life.” Lori Higgins ’94, ’12 MAL President, MetroNorth Chamber of Commerce “I am eager to give back to the school that has given me so many opportunities, such as political internships with [former U.S. Rep.] Martin Sabo ’59 and MN Sen. Bill Luther, which began my career.” MAKES LASTING IMPACT With its Give to the Max Day gifts, the Biology Department funded new research opportunities for two students: Oksana Burt ’17 and Davy DeKrey ’17 [pictured]. 24 Augsburg Now Business development, Gravie “A continuing passion of mine is to grow our networking efforts, both for employers and individuals as they connect with Auggie alumni.” Online giving day supports students, faculty, programs Auggies last fall made Augsburg College No. 1 in the annual Give to the Max Day challenge. This year, Give to the Max Day is November 17, and the College is calling on alumni to push Augsburg into the top spot for the fourth year in a row. In 2015, in just 24 hours, more than 1,000 Auggies—many of whom were first-time donors—generously stepped up to give more than $240,000 to Augsburg. As a result, Augsburg ranked first among all participating Minnesota colleges and universities, and earned a $10,000 bonus. Alumni support on Give to the Max Day has a lasting impact and supports new opportunities for students. Funds raised last year supported the expansion of on-campus research; the purchase of a 3-D printer for the mathematics and statistics department; production costs for Howling Bird Press, the student-run book publishing project in the Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing program; and trips by athletic teams for competition, education, and community service. This November, alumni also can give to scholarships that honor the legacy of music, research, and civil service at Augsburg. Gifts are being sought to honor the work of Leland Sateren ’35, U.S. Rep. Martin Sabo ’59, the StepUP® program, and the Office of Undergraduate Research and Graduate Opportunity, which connects students with new and existing research and scholarship on campus, across the United States, and around the world. Anyone can donate any amount on Give to the Max Day. Schedule your gifts online at givemn.org beginning November 1. Josh Krob ’08, ’15 MBA Janeece Oatman ’05 Development director, American Diabetes Association “I have a passion for committee-building, and I am interested in networking opportunities, reconnecting with campus, and fellow Auggies.” Brad Randall ’13 Mechanical maintenance planner, Xcel Energy “As a graduate of Augsburg’s Adult Undergraduate program, I am interested in mentoring Augsburg alumni in all fields.” [L to R]: Lewis Istok ’18 and Abigale Enrici ’18 create a two-material print using a 3-D printer purchased with Give to the Max Day funds. Jordan Brandt ’17 throws a pitch on the baseball team’s 2016 spring break trip to Arizona. The team raised more than $17,000 on Give to the Max Day 2015. Back row [L to R]: Josh Krob ’08, ’15 MBA; Brad Randall ’13; Mary Prevost ’12 MBA; Cyrus Batheja ’08, ’10 MBA; Jay Howard ’03, Nick Rathmann ’03; Hanna Dietrich ’05; Rick Bonlender ’78; Patricia Jesperson ’95; Melissa (Daudt) Hoepner ’92; Howie Smith ’80, ’19 MAL; Marie (Eddy) Odenbrett ’01; Greg Schnagl ’91. Front row [L to R]: Adrienne (Kuchler) Eldridge ’02; Meg (Schmidt) Sawyer ’00; Adriana Matzke ’13; Janeece Oatman ’05; Chau “Tina” Nguyen ’08; Jill Watson ’10 MBA. Not pictured: Derek Francis ’08; Lori Higgins ’94, ’12 MAL; Nick Swanson ’09 Q&A with tour guide and Professor of English Kathy Swanson Q: A: How many times have you traveled to Thailand? What keeps bringing you back? My husband and I lived in Thailand as Peace Corps volunteers for two years and have returned eight times since. We return because we feel Thailand is our “second home.” We love Thailand’s beauty—from the huge city of Bangkok to the mountains of northern Thailand in Chiang Mai to the small beach town where we lived. We also have many dear friends, some former students and colleagues, with whom we love to reconnect. Q: A: Can you share with us a memory from a trip you led with Augsburg students? We have shared our love of Thailand with Augsburg students during five trips and have so many good memories. Former Auggies still share their memories and pictures of the trips with us. Some of these students became English language learner teachers because of their experience teaching English in our former school. I remember one student, for example, who was hesitant about going so far away from home and to such an unfamiliar place. She had been my student in several classes and seemed to trust me when I encouraged her, so she took the big step. We are still in contact after many years and she has written about her trip to Thailand as being “lifechanging.” She stepped out of her comfort zone and experienced things she could have never imagined, gaining confidence and self-awareness. Q: A: Who should take this trip? Anyone who values expanding a worldview, learning about a new culture, and experiencing beauty. Summer 2016 25 ALUMNI CLASS NOTES AUGGIES CONNECT Martin Sabo ’59 leaves a lasting legacy. See page 23. 1960 Rev. Dennis Glad ’60 and Barbara Glad of St. Francis, Minnesota, have led nearly 1,000 volunteers on mission trips to 14 Caribbean islands, Costa Rica, and Belize over the past 25 years. Working on a volunteer construction team, the Glads and their crew have built schools, clinics, churches, orphanages, and more. In April, the couple received WCCO Radio’s Good Neighbor Award, and they are now in the station’s Good Neighbor Hall of Fame. In 1999, Rev. Glad retired after serving in the United Methodist Church for more than 40 years. empowering dreams Travelers EDGE® grant affords students pathway to success In March, Augsburg was awarded a $115,000 grant to continue offering Travelers EDGE (Empowering Dreams for Graduation and Employment), a program that provides underrepresented students with scholarships, paid internships, and mentorship in an effort to break down barriers and provide long-term opportunity. The highly successful program, now in its sixth year at Augsburg, is poised to have 15 Travelers EDGE scholars on campus this fall—its largest cohort yet. This prestigious program—open to only 12 colleges in the United States—has lifetime payoffs for students, including the chance to find challenging and rewarding careers in the insurance and financial services industry. To get there, each Travelers EDGE scholar works with a career coach and a professional mentor at Travelers and participates in financial literacy programming. Marlene Ibsen, vice president of community relations at Travelers, said Augsburg was already doing great work and made for a natural Travelers EDGE partner. “Everything and everyone we encountered at Augsburg, including President Pribbenow and throughout the organization, made us think, ‘This is a team of people who really get it and would be outstanding additions to the Travelers EDGE collaborative,’” said Ibsen. Students in the program receive financial 26 Augsburg Now scholarships and something that, in the long run, pays even greater dividends— networking contacts. “Once they begin immersing themselves in the professional development workshops and start to build relationships with Travelers employees, students quickly learn that the networking and professional coaching they are getting will be of significant use to them in the long term,” said Janet Morales, Augsburg’s director for the program. So far, Augsburg has had 23 Travelers EDGE scholars participate in the program and some have gone on to accept full-time positions with Travelers. Dustina Granlund ’14 is one of the Travelers EDGE alumni who works at Travelers. Granlund had two internships at the company, including one in Hartford, Connecticut. As an intern, she helped develop new and more efficient reporting systems that are still in use today. Granlund said her mentor helped her understand how school applies to the real world by encouraging her to accept and take on challenges, to network, and to push herself beyond her comfort zone. “My Travelers EDGE scholar work taught me business etiquette, interviewing techniques, and résumé writing,” she said. “It helped connect me with resources at Augsburg that I didn’t really know about.” Travelers EDGE connected Granlund with staff in Augsburg’s Clair and Gladys Strommen Center for Meaningful Work who helped Granlund become more comfortable seeking regular advice on graduate school. Morales sees that the value of the program goes far beyond job experience. “Travelers EDGE is confidence building,” she said. “Our scholars do not typically have any corporate experience prior to becoming a part of Travelers EDGE, nor do they have family members with that experience, so starting their professional journey within insurance and financial services can be intimidating. However, Travelers EDGE gives the scholars opportunities to learn and build their skills within a safe space. The end result is that they can imagine themselves with a career in insurance and financial services, which they couldn’t before.” 1964 Roger Johnson ’64 was presented with the Donald Clark Memorial Award at Minnesota Hockey’s annual banquet in April. The award is given to an individual who has been dedicated to the grassroots growth and development of youth hockey in Minnesota. Johnson was the head coach for boys’ hockey in Fergus Falls, Minnesota, from 1965 until 1972 and then was varsity assistant and junior varsity head coach for the next 27 years until 1999. He is a substitute teacher and a volunteer general manager for the boys’ hockey team. 1969 Royce Helmbrecht ’69 graduated with a degree in education. Today, 47 years later, he works as a substitute teacher with students who struggle to get through school. He also teaches jail inmates for the GED program. fundraisers. Her leisure activities include gardening, walking, biking, and reading. Michael Good ’71 celebrates at groundbreaking ceremony. See page 2. jazzy food songs. Sullivan attended Augsburg as a flute student, studied broadcasting at Brown Institute, and has worked in radio and as a voice-over artist. After appearing at venues that draw swing dancers, she teamed up with Laurie to create the duo Retro Swing Sister. Three years ago at Valley of Peace Lutheran Church in Golden Valley, Minnesota, three parishioners took on a Lenten art project to create a mosaic for their church entry. Led by Barb (Durkee) Mikelson ’71, the committee also included Emilie Moravec ’07 and Jon Daniels ’88. The design, primarily Mikelson’s work, echoed the stained glass window design in the church’s sanctuary created by the late August Molder, an Augsburg professor. Mikelson served the past 12 years as director of her church’s early childhood education center, All God’s Children Learning Center, and retired in January. The school’s leadership is now in the able hands of another Auggie, Courtney GadboisBrumbaugh ’95. From the Auggie Connections blog. Read more at augsburg.edu/alumni/blog. He says the Lord intervened in his life and directed him to Augsburg, and he feels blessed to have followed the Lord’s direction. 1971 Mary (Soulen) Johnson ’71 is the new branch assistant at Minnesota’s Aitkin Public Library. She especially enjoys working with children at the library and at the Aitkin Children’s Center. As a volunteer at Wild and Free in Garrison, Minnesota, she helps with feeding animals and assists with Merilee Klemp ’75 uses the city of Minneapolis as her classroom. See page 16. 1982 Maryann Sullivan ’82 and Rhonda Laurie have been entertaining listening audiences and swing dancers for the past three years. In February, the two performed “Swingin’ a la Carte” as part of the Jazz@ St. Barney’s concert series at St. Barnabas Lutheran Church in Plymouth, Minnesota, reflecting the singers’ love of cooking through Scott Whirley ’82 and Henry Gerten ’98 were inducted into the National Wrestling Coaches Association Division III Hall of Fame in a ceremony in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, prior to this year’s NCAA Division III Wrestling National Championships. Whirley and Gerten are the ninth and 10th Auggies to be inducted into the NWCA Division III Hall of Fame. Dr. Paul Mueller ’84 breaks ground on Augsburg’s new, signature academic building. See page 2. AUGGIE SNAPSHOTS 1967 In March, the Rev. Terry J. Frovik ’67 and his wife, Pauline, were invited by Archbishop Nemuel Babba to participate in the installation service for the Rev. Peter Bartimawus, who was elected Bishop of the Gongola Diocese of the Lutheran Church of Christ in Nigeria (LCCN). The service took place in Bartimawus’ home village of Guyuk. 1992 Rosanne Newville Bump ’92 plans events, including the St. Paul Winter Carnival as president and CEO of the Saint Paul Festival & Heritage Foundation. She received her MBA in 2010 from the University of Wisconsin-River Falls. She has stayed in touch with many of her Auggie classmates over the years, and is pleased that both the St. Paul Winter Carnival and the Cinco de Mayo organizations benefit from the help of Augsburg interns as they plan events. She lives with her husband of 28 years, Jeff Bump ’85, and their three daughters (Madelyn, Ella, and Julia) in River Falls where she served for nine years as CEO of the River Falls Chamber of Commerce and Tourism Bureau. Summer 2016 27 2000 ALUMNI CLASS NOTES Brian Ammann ’85 reflects on one of the standout athletes he coached. See page 8. 1988 Building hope In March, Bob Strommen ’74 volunteered for a Habitat for Humanity project in Nicaragua. He joined cousins Tim ’70 and Dawn (Hofstad) ’70 Strommen, and Judy (Knudson) Strommen ’77, and was overwhelmed by the magnitude of poverty in the small village where they worked. The trip was Tim’s third visit to the same site. Bob writes, “Prior to our venturing out, we had an orientation led by our Nicaraguan Habitat leader, Aleandra, who reported that there was a need for more than 600,000 homes in Nicaragua—either new builds or fixing up existing homes in desperate need of repair. And we were going to build one home. At the time I thought, ‘What difference will this make? How do you tackle such an overwhelming need?’” Upon meeting the eventual homeowner, her daughter, and grandchildren, Bob soon learned that their work in that one week would make a lifechanging impact for the family. He’d considered the impact they would make on the family of the house, but did not comprehend the impact that the people and volunteering would have on him, saying: “My goal is not to be better than anyone else, but to be better than I used to be.” Jeff Judge ’88 successfully defended his doctoral dissertation at Minnesota State University. His thesis was “Spirituality in Higher Education: A Narrative Analysis of its Use by Leaders for Decision-Making.” Judge graduated from Augsburg with bachelor’s degrees in music education and Spanish, and received a master’s in Spanish from Middlebury (Vermont) College. He lives in Minnetonka, Minnesota, with his wife, Jeannie, and their three teenagers: Nico, Danny, and Clare. He is the dean of the humanities division at Normandale Community College in Bloomington, Minnesota. 1989 Troy Bakker ’89 received a doctorate of science degree from Dakota State University in Madison, South Dakota. Stephen Hindle ’89 has been appointed practice lead at the partner level for Aon Hewitt’s assessment and leadership practice for Asia, the Middle East, and Africa. He also is the face of Aon Hewitt in these markets. His responsibilities include commercial management of all assessment and leadership business across 14 countries as well as all operations, solution development, and mergers and acquisitions activity in these markets. He is based in Singapore with his wife of more than 21 years, Adean, and their two daughters, Claudia and Madeleine. 1996 As twin sisters, Kaja Foat ’96 and Zoe Foat ’96 have shared a lot in life—a last name, a love of color and nature, and a vision for a more ethical world. In 2002, the sisters followed their shared vision to create FOAT. Their goal was to offer a refreshing, eco-conscious alternative in women’s fashion, starting with yoga apparel. Since then, they’ve expanded their designs to additional lines of one-of-a-kind garments and wedding gowns, and their workspace to studios in Minneapolis and Charleston, South Carolina. Devean George ’99 builds neighborhood pride alongside community housing in north Minneapolis. See page 8. 2000 Augsburg theater alumni Stephanie Lein Walseth ’00, Quinci Bachman ’15, and Jorge Rodriguez ’15, and Professor Emerita Martha Johnson participated in the Full Circle Theater Company’s return engagement of “Theater: A Sacred Passage.” Lein Walseth and Johnson are two writers of this original performance piece, devised by the core artists of Full Circle from their personal journeys into theater. Their stories embody the challenges and transformational experiences they have had in becoming theater artists and how their lives and work reflect the changes in the theater community during the past two decades. The piece incorporates acting, storytelling, choreography, and music. Bachman was production coordinator, stage manager, and sound designer. Rodriguez served as set and technical director and lighting designer. Johnson was dramaturge and assistant director. Visit augsburg.edu/alumni/blog to read more. 1992 Heather Johnston ’92 (second from left) was invited to speak at the annual conference of the Municipal Finance Directors of Israel in Eilat, Israel. Johnston is president of the Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada. Johnston serves as the city manager for Burnsville, Minnesota. 28 Augsburg Now 1999 [L to R]: J. Roxanne Prichard, associate professor of psychology and neuroscience, and Jeanne “Birdie” (Ramacher) Cunningham ’99, associate director of health and wellness, have created and launched the Center for College Sleep at the University of St. Thomas in St. Paul. 2005 Jon Dahlin ’05 participated in track and field at Augsburg, and he set a national record in the hammer throw that still stands. He went on to compete nationally and internationally in Highland games. He competed in states including California, Florida, and Texas, and he also competed in Iceland. He traveled to Gyor, Hungary, as part of Team USA for the 2015 World Highland Games Championship where he squared off against 15 athletes from around the world. He was pleased to record one of his best performances ever in caber (tossing a 175-pound wooden beam), and finished in seventh place. Dahlin lives in Minnetonka, Minnesota, and works as a software developer at Barr Engineering, focusing primarily on creating web applications. He also is a sports photographer who covers NFL games. Jenni Fisher ’05 and Jade Boettcher ’15 MAE were united in marriage on January 20 in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. Boettcher received his Master of Arts in Education from Augsburg and is a special education teacher at John Marshall High School in Rochester, Minnesota. Fisher received her bachelor’s from Augsburg and is a clinic assistant at Planned Parenthood in Rochester. Brandon Green ’05 is a new managing partner at MG Resources. Before joining the company, Green spent nearly 18 years with Griffiths Corporation. 2007 James Lekatz ’07 wrote the music for “The Snow Queen,” which was presented at Stages Theatre in Hopkins, Minnesota, in March. This summer, Lekatz worked with a group of students with autism on a production of “The BFG” as part of a program called CAST, Creative Accepting Sensoryfriendly Theatre. He will be assistant director on a production called “Twinkle Twinkle,” as part of Stages Theatre Company’s theater for the very young, and he will compose Stages’ next dance/ ballet piece, “The Velveteen Rabbit,” to be performed next spring. 2008 Andrew Webb ’08 volunteers his time to assist local and global communities as they recover from natural disasters and tragedies. He encourages others through a letter-writing campaign and invites groups, such as area high schools, to join him in his dedication to this mission. Sara (Quigley) Brown ’00 received her chaplain badge for the Alaska Police and Fire Chaplains Ministry, a statewide nonprofit that serves police and fire personnel. The program follows a strict training that mirrors the training of police officers. Brown will return to the Twin Cities in August to attend a clinical pastoral education residency through which she will receive certification to become a hospital chaplain. 2000 Ross Murray ’00, ’09 MBA, has been issued a call from the Metropolitan New York Synod in New York City to be consecrated as a diaconal minister and focus on LGBT advocacy at GLAAD. He and Richard Garnett ’07, ’09 MBA were married in April. 2001 Sarah (Grans) Peterka ’01 married Erik Peterka on December 12. Several Auggies were at the celebration including: Carrie Lind ’01, Skylar Hanson ’01, Laura Hahn ’02, Erica ’01 and Jason ’01 Bryan-Wegner, Ben Hoogland ’00, Larye ’98 and Melissa (Moyle) Pohlman ’00, Lenise Butler ’01, and Birgitte Simpson ’13. 2010 Jennifer (Mathwig) Ortloff ’10 became joint owner of the public accounting firm of Peterson Juergensen Hemerick & Co. in Hutchinson, Minnesota, after five years with the firm. Prior to becoming an owner and before earning an accounting degree at Augsburg, she worked on the administrative side of the company. Ortloff is a native of Brownton, Minnesota, and worked for the city of Brownton while completing her degree. 2005 When Claire Pettry ’05 moved to Ohio in the fall of 2015, her Augsburg College connection played a key role in helping her form friendships in her new locale. She met Chris Ascher ’81 and wife, Susan, and the three became fast friends who completed a 5K run on Thanksgiving. 2003 Megan and Jay Howard ’03 welcomed their son, Elias John, on April 28. Lisa Svac Hawks ’85 sees Augsburg College as a “pillar of faith,” one of the reasons she chose the College and why she continues to be involved. She served six years on the Alumni Board and is a founding member of Augsburg Women Engaged. Hawks is vice president, external communications, for United Healthcare Services. She is focused on helping simplify the complicated health care landscape for the consumers so that they can live healthier lives. In her spare time, Hawks enjoys gardening, cooking, and playing golf and other sports. She also enjoys coaching her 10-year-old son Andrew’s baseball team, which she has done for the past three years. From the Auggie Connections blog. Visit augsburg.edu/alumni/blog to read more. ALUMNI CLASS NOTES 2011 Patrick Siegel ’11 is the proud owner of Robusto & Briar cigar store and lounge in Lakewood, Ohio. The establishment is made for all who appreciate a fine cigar and conversation-worthy décor. He got hooked on the cigar business when, as a student at Augsburg, he was hired by the Golden Leaf shop, where he bought his cigars. He and wife, Nicole, who grew up in Rocky River, Ohio, decided to settle in Lakewood. Robusto & Briar specializes in hand-rolled products that are kept in a 15-by30 foot humidor. The shop offers about 400 types of cigars and about 50 kinds of tobacco. 2012 The Minnesota Women’s Press published an article on Interfaith Youth Connection, a program for high school and college-age youth that promotes interfaith understanding and service. The article includes comments from Fardosa Hassan ’12, Muslim student program associate at Augsburg College and program coordinator of Interfaith Youth Connection. By holding regular conversations and yearly service events, the group seeks to give youth “a way to be proud of who they are in whatever faith background they [believe], while reducing prejudice and misconception,” Hassan said. “In the midst of what is going on today, this is something we need.” Patrick Sayler ’12 is the new general manager of Co-op Natural Foods in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. Before returning to Sioux Falls three years ago, he spent 16 years in the Minneapolis area managing cafes and retail shops. As the general manager of Co-op Natural Foods, he will oversee an established business that employs approximately 20 people and does more than $2 million a year. He is completing work on a degree in business management/marketing and project management at the University of Sioux Falls. 2014 Allison Zank ’14 has been named a National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellow for 2016-17. Zank will receive a $34,000 annual stipend and $12,000 costof-education allowance to assist her in achieving a research-based graduate degree. An NSF GRFP indicates to graduate schools that a student is a top undergraduate scientist in the nation. Zank conducted summer research on biofilms with Augsburg Associate Professor Jennifer Bankers-Fulbright as well as at the University of Minnesota’s Dental School. Zank also has spent time conducting research in industry. At Augsburg, she was named an URGO Scholar, McNair Scholar, AugSTEM Scholar, and Goldwater Scholar. She plans to pursue a master’s degree in clinical microbiology at the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse this fall. GRADUATE 2015 Katie Clark ’10 MAN, ’14 DNP presented at a breakout session for Fairview Health Services’ Somali Cultural Health Day in April. Her topic was “Critical decision making and chronic illness.” Clark connected her previous bedside nursing experience with her current experience working with Somali community members at the Health Commons in the CedarRiverside neighborhood. Her focus was to teach health care providers to deliver culturally congruent care to marginalized populations. She concentrated her efforts on reducing the role of stereotypes and assumptions in the patient-provider relationship. Jordan Holm ’15 competed in the 2016 Olympic trials in the 85-kilogram weight class for Greco-Roman wrestling at Carver-Hawkeye Arena in Iowa City, Iowa, on April 6. Holm was one of three athletes automatically earning the No. 1 ranking. He graduated from Augsburg with a business degree in marketing. Duina Hernandez ’16 lets dirt fly at an Augsburg groundbreaking ceremony. See page 2. Evan Berg ’10 MBA was hired as assistant vice president and loan officer at the Janesville State Bank in Janesville, Minnesota. He has a bachelor’s degree in economics/ business administration from Winona State University and an MBA from Augsburg, as well as eight years of experience in credit analysis and lending with Farm Credit and several banks. AUGGIE CONNECTIONS: a new, personalized newsletter Whether it be in the classroom, cheering on your favorite Auggie team, or supporting the on-campus groups that mean the most to you, Augsburg College emphasizes a direct, personal experience for its students and alumni. In today’s world where information is coming from all angles and at all times, personalized, meaningful information is more important than ever. The Alumni Association recognizes this and is taking a step to provide more pertinent and timely information about what’s happening at Augsburg. Beginning this summer, Augsburg is offering a personalized e-newsletter that will be delivered on a schedule of your choosing, in a format you want. No more monthly Now@Augsburg emails. The Auggie Connections newsletter is now in your hands. Choose the topics you are most interested in: Auggie athletics? Theater and music? Science? Want to hear it all? With your new, improved Auggie Connections newsletter, you won’t miss a thing. The first personalized Auggie Connections newsletter arrived in your email inbox in late June. If you haven’t yet set your preferences, check your email for the message titled “Augsburg College - delivered YOUR way,” to get started. To update your contact information, email alumniupdate@ augsburg.edu. 2009 Benjamin Austin ’09 and Michelle (Anderson) Austin ’11 were married December 19 in St. Paul. They met at Augsburg during her sophomore year and his senior year. Schuyler (Dunhaupt) Tilson ’10 graduated from Mitchell Hamline School of Law in St. Paul in January with a focus in Indian law. She recently passed the Minnesota bar and became a staff attorney for the Ho-Chunk Nation Trial Court. She holds undergraduate degrees from Augsburg in history and American Indian studies. 2012 Muneer Al-Hameed ’12 won the Dancing with the Twin Cities Celebrities Charity Ball in February. Augsburg alumna Carla Beaurline ’91 was a judge this year and a 2015 Dancing with the Twin Cities celebrity dancer. FRESH LOOK, INCREASED INTERACTION Nic Thomley ’06 MBA was named to the 2016 Class of Henry Crown Fellows and the Aspen Global Leadership Network at the Aspen Institute. This growing network unites a worldwide community of entrepreneurial leaders from business, government, and the nonprofit sector who share a commitment to enlightened leadership and to using their creativity, energy, and resources to tackle the foremost societal challenges of our time. Thomley is an accomplished entrepreneur in the human services industry and the founder of companies that provide an array of services to persons with disabilities and senior citizens. Thomley is the founder and 30 Augsburg Now CEO of Morning Star Financial Services and the founder and chairman of Summit Fiscal Agency and Pinnacle Services, Minneapolis. Thomley was named a 2015 Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year Finalist and, in 2006, was named to Inc. Magazine’s “30 Under 30, America’s Coolest Young Entrepreneurs” list and to the Minneapolis/ St. Paul Business Journal’s “40 Under 40” list. In 2010, Thomley was presented with Augsburg’s First Decade Award, which honors graduates of the past 10 years who have made significant progress in their professional achievements and contributions to the community. Enjoy several new features on the Augsburg Now magazine’s companion website. Thanks to a site upgrade, it’s possible to: • Read articles on mobile devices with ease • Share favorite stories and photos on social media • View exclusive slideshows and videos • Manage your magazine subscription and delivery method • “Go green” by opting for digital content instead of print • Submit class notes and share good news SUBMIT A CLASS NOTE Tell us about the news in your life—your new job, move, marriage, and births. Visit augsburg.edu/alumni/connect to submit your announcements. Mike Polis ’10 has started Backboard Media, based in Northeast Minneapolis. Check it out at backboardgroup.com. 2010 augsburg.edu/now Entrepreneurial leader recognized 2010 2013 Kuoth Wiel ’13 cofounded the NyaEden Foundation, a nonprofit that aims to provide basic survival necessities to disadvantaged women and children throughout Africa. She is an actress, model, and humanitarian whose debut film role was in “The Good Lie,” a drama starring Reese Witherspoon that tells the story of a group of Sudanese refugees who are offered shelter in the United States. Wiel was born to a Sudanese mother and father in an Ethiopian refugee camp following her parents’ escape from war-torn Sudan. As a young adult, Wiel moved to Minneapolis to attend Augsburg and study social psychology. Visit nyaedenfoundation.org to learn more about the organization’s work to foster girls’ and women’s safety, empowerment, independence, dignity, self-esteem, and self-respect. Fall 2015 37 Summer 2016 31 In memoriam Chester R. Heikkinen ’40, Robbinsdale, Minnesota, age 99, on November 24. Helen (Quanbeck) Nichols ’44, Monticello, Minnesota, age 94, on April 27. Frederick “Fred” M. King ’71, Onalaska, Wisconsin, age 73, on February 5. Helen E. (Berg) Peterson ’46, Minneapolis, age 92, on November 23. Martin O. Sabo ’59, Minneapolis, age 78, on March 13. Kenneth J. Dahlberg ’80, Colorado Springs, Colorado, age 62, on December 21. Doris M. Rear-Hustad ’46, Blanchardville, Wisconsin, age 90, on March 18. Gary A. Hoonsbeen ’60, Crystal, Minnesota, age 77, on March 7. Brenda L. Fredrick ’82, Strawberry Point, Iowa, age 57, on April 23. Loren M. Thorson ’46, Green Valley, Arizona, age 96, on March 8. Robert N. Martin ’61, Dracut, Massachusetts, age 81, on March 22. Janice C. Olson ’84, Lakewood, Washington, age 79, on January 19. Robert “Bob” E. Lee ’47, Hallettsville, Texas, age 92, on March 3. Norbert W. W. Mokros ’61, Duluth, Minnesota, age 77, on January 25. Melissa A. Lawrence ’88, Minneapolis, age 59, on March 1. Aagoth E. (Hanson) Hansen ’48, Willmar, Minnesota, age 89, on January 4. Sherman P. Coltvet ’62, Rochester, Minnesota, age 75, on January 30. Marilyn J. (Cederstrom) Teubert ’88, Waconia, Minnesota, age 84, on November 23. Paul D. Hilton ’51, Cumberland, Wisconsin, age 86, on January 28. Eugene M. Nelson ’51, Colorado Springs, Colorado, age 86, on January 11. Lillian K. (Ysteboe) Ose ’51, Benson, Minnesota, age 87, on January 5. Leonard E. Dalberg ’52, Solvang, California, age 90, on April 21. Randall “Randy” Fischer ’52, Lynchburg, Virginia, age 85, on February 5. Robert C. Ingman ’54, Minneapolis, age 85, on September 3. Charles “Bob” R. Hudgins ’62, Burnsville, Minnesota, age 75, on December 12. Charles W. King, Jr. ’62, Sun City West, Arizona, age 76, on December 17. Philip O. Sidney ’63, St. Paul, age 75, on April 10. Mary M. Lindgren ’64, Minneapolis, age 74, on March 15. David A. Mallak ’65, Austin, Texas, age 72, on February 10. Steven H. Steinke ’65, Pequot Lakes, Minnesota, age 68, on January 26. Robert R. Benson ’67, Preston, Minnesota, age 70, on December 23. Karl B. Lunder ’70, Red Wing, Minnesota, age 69, on March 12. SAVE THE DATES: SEPTEMBER 22-24 New events and schedule! William “Bill” J. Schutt ’75, Watertown, South Dakota, age 74, on February 2. Richard “Dick” L. Berg ’57, Minneapolis, age 85, on February 3. Vera C. (Alberg) Hafstad ’50, Owatonna, Minnesota, age 86, on March 11. Augsburg Now Dayne W. Sather ’55, Maple Grove, Minnesota, age 86, on January 25. Joyce I. (Engstrom) Spector ’70, Minneapolis, age 68, on April 1. Mary (Mortensen) Nelson ’45, Minneapolis, age 92, on January 22. Arnold H. Skaar ’48, Edina, Minnesota, age 91, on February 2. 32 Dale W. Quanbeck ’54, Grand Forks, North Dakota, age 84, on January 18. Carol R. (Pasquarella) Liedtke ’89, Shorewood, Illinois, age 73, on December 5. Diane P. Ondrey ’94, Minneapolis, age 80, on February 19. Jean W. (Thompson) Rondeau ’94, Minneapolis, age 77, on April 12. Sandra K. Berg ’98, Inver Grove Heights, Minnesota, age 69, on January 26. Conrad D. Meyer ’98, Merida, Mexico, age 66, on April 3. . S E I G G U A E B . D U O PR E B . D E L BE CAL Barbara (Steinle) Huckle ’00, Burnsville, Minnesota, age 55, on April 16. Jason C. Magnon ’13, Georgetown, Texas, age 25, on January 15. Go to augsburg.edu/homecoming to register and see the new events this year. The “In memoriam” listings in this publication include notifications received before May 10. 2211 Riverside Avenue Minneapolis, MN 55454 Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Twin Cities, MN Permit No. 2031 The Augsburg Choir joins Barry Manilow on stage The exceptional talent and hard work of the Augsburg Choir was rewarded with a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to sing backup during Grammy-award winner Barry Manilow’s farewell tour. Members of the choir sang three of his hits in an encore at the Xcel Energy Center: “I Write the Songs,” “Miracle,” and “Copacabana (At the Copa).”
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Title: Augsburg Now Fall-Winter 2017: Auggies Make an Impact
Collection: Alumni Magazine Collection
Search Result: An alumna’s cutting-edge research Augsburg University Day Women of influence Nobel Peace Prize Forum AUGGIES MAKE AN IMPACT FALL–WINTER 2017 | VOL. 80, NO. 1 INSIDE AUGSBURG NOW Vice President of Marketing and Communication Rebecca John ’13 MBA rjohn@augsburg.edu Director of Marketing...
Show more An alumna’s cutting-edge research Augsburg University Day Women of influence Nobel Peace Prize Forum AUGGIES MAKE AN IMPACT FALL–WINTER 2017 | VOL. 80, NO. 1 INSIDE AUGSBURG NOW Vice President of Marketing and Communication Rebecca John ’13 MBA rjohn@augsburg.edu Director of Marketing Stephen Jendraszak jendra@augsburg.edu Assistant Director of Marketing Management NOTES FROM PRESIDENT PRIBBENOW On celebration Augsburg’s ninth president, Bill Frame, was fond of pointing out our “militant modesty,” the tendency to avoid touting our accomplishments for fear that we might be accused of boasting. Whether occasioned by our Lutheran faith tradition or Scandinavian roots (or some combination thereof), this modesty meant that often our good work as an institution was hidden under a bushel. Now, as someone steeped both in Lutheran and Scandinavian ways, I may have occasionally fallen victim to that same modesty, but perhaps I am being rehabilitated because there is just so much to celebrate at Augsburg these days! We can no longer hide our light, as this issue of Augsburg Now most clearly illustrates. Whether it is our name change to Augsburg University, officially celebrated in early September; the 29th annual Nobel Peace Prize Forum in mid-September, attracting international attention for this remarkable gathering of Nobel laureates and other peacemakers; the progress on the Hagfors Center for Science, Business, and Religion, our signature academic building to open for classes in early January 2018; or one of the myriad other signs of good work—like the renewal of our McNair Scholars program, preparing first generation and students of color for graduate and professional school—I just can’t deny the need to celebrate! So, here’s my point. I’m all for humility and modesty in pursuing the mission-based work we are called to do for our students and our community. The gifts we share as a community—our values and commitments, our faculty and staff, our alumni and partners, and our inspiring students—these truly are gifts to be stewarded responsibly, not exploited. But it is not boasting when we celebrate how those gifts come together and are deployed to achieve our distinctive calling in the world: to be small to our students and big for the world, to educate students as informed citizens, thoughtful stewards, critical thinkers, and responsible leaders. In fact, I might argue that not celebrating what has been achieved means that we miss the opportunity to proclaim what God has done in our midst and how others are invited to join us in the work we are called to do. We live in a world marked by a sense of scarcity; Augsburg models what it means to model the way of abundance. We choose abundance, and we celebrate all that God has made possible at Augsburg University—surely a beacon of light and hope in the world. Faithfully yours, Laura Swanson Lindahl ’15 MBA swansonl@augsburg.edu Senior Creative Associate, Design Denielle Stepka ’11 johnsod@augsburg.edu Web Manager Joe Mann mannj@augsburg.edu Communication and Social Media Specialist Briana Alamilla ’17 alamilla@augsburg.edu Advancement Communications Specialist Asha Sorenson sorenso3@augsburg.edu Contributing Writers Kate H. Elliott Jessica Mueller All photos by Courtney Perry unless otherwise indicated. augsburg.edu Augsburg Now is published by Augsburg University 2211 Riverside Ave. Minneapolis, MN 55454 Opinions expressed in Augsburg Now do not necessarily reflect official University policy. ISSN 1058-1545 Send address corrections to: alumniupdate@augsburg.edu PAUL C. PRIBBENOW, PRESIDENT Send comments to: now@augsburg.edu AUGSBURG NOW Fall–Winter 2017 The Norman and Evangeline Hagfors Center for Science, Business, and Religion is located near the corner of 21st Avenue South and South 7th Street on Augsburg’s Minneapolis campus—a site strategically selected to further connect the University to the community. 02 Around the quad 19 Women of influence 08 Annual report to donors 22 Auggies connect 10 Augsburg University Day 26 Class notes 12 The fatherhood bonus and the motherhood penalty 32 In memoriam 16 Nobel Peace Prize Forum On the cover The Augsburg University quad featured vibrant autumn colors this October. Photo by Kevin Healy. Inset photo by John Solem, University of Massachusetts Amherst. that Augsburg University’s quad now boasts a splash of color. At more than 82 feet wide, the vinyl graphic installed on Science Hall’s eastern-facing facade is nearly impossible to miss. The design pairs an excerpt from Augsburg’s strategic vision statement with vibrant hues chosen to reﬂect the accent colors on the exterior of the new Hagfors Center for Science, Business, and Religion, which stands northwest of Science Hall and is blocked from view in the quad. One of the priorities outlined in Augsburg’s 2016 campus master plan is to extend the quad from the west edge of campus, through the existing campus core, and on to Murphy Square. This vision requires the demolition of Science Hall, which will be possible only after departments and program offices now housed in the facility relocate following the completion of the Hagfors Center. The timeline for this work is not yet determined, so, in the near term, those strolling through the heart of campus or navigating nearby streets will see Science Hall stand as an illustration of Augsburg’s vision to be “small to our students and big for the world.” 160 Y E A R S A G O Fifteen years before Augsburg moved in next door, Edward Murphy donated land for the first city park in Minneapolis— what is now Murphy Square. For years prior, the parcel had been used as a cow pasture. 1937 1857 LOOKING BACK: DECADES OF AUGSBURG HISTORY BEFORE AFTER ARCHIVE PHOTOS 8 0 Y E A RS A GO Augsburg elected an erudite and scholarly teacher, Bernhard Christensen ’22, ’25, to be president. He led the institution for nearly 25 years, during which time Augsburg made vigorous efforts to expand and enhance academic offerings. 1967 IT WOULD BE OVERLY MODEST to claim 5 0 Y E A RS A GO Paul Simon and Art Garfunkel played for more than 3,000 people in Si Melby Hall on Nov. 10, 1967. According to an Augsburg Echo review, the lengthiest applause was reserved for the song, “To Emily, Wherever I Might Find Her.” The same year saw the openings of Urness Hall and the Christensen Center, with the Marshall Room at the time serving as a faculty lounge to the resentment of the Echo’s editorial board. PHOTO BY MARK CHAMBERLAIN CURB APPEAL AROUND THE QUAD Where faith and public life meet 30 Y E A RS A GO Augsburg began offering its first graduate degree program, the Master of Arts in Leadership. Augsburg now offers nine post baccalaureate programs and set an enrollment record this fall with 1,035 master’s students. 2007 40 Y E A R S AG O Construction began on what is now the Charles S. Anderson Music Hall, which would open a year later, bringing the entire music department under one roof for the first time in 100 years. AN AUGGIE THROWBACK PHOTO BY REBECCA SLATER 1987 1977 The Rev. Mike Rusert [center] and members of Intertwine NE meet on a Sunday morning to plan a December 10 launch event designed as an inclusive experience for young adults interested in being part of an intentional spiritual community. PHOTOS BY DON STONER It is no secret that the gap between young adults and Christian congregations is widening. The good news, though, is that young people are not rejecting faith or religion; many are living out their faith through political activism, the arts, environmental stewardship, and interfaith engagement—places where public life and faith intersect. Bridging this gap will require congregations to adapt and innovate. To support this adaptive work, Augsburg’s Bernhard Christensen Center for Vocation has launched a five-year project, called the Riverside Innovation Hub, with $1.5 million in funding from Lilly Endowment, Inc. In its first year, the Riverside Innovation Hub will work with an interdisciplinary research team of Augsburg faculty to study 12 local congregations that are effectively engaging young adults in their communities. Using the lessons learned from that research, the program will recruit and train a cohort of youth to serve as coaches, working alongside approximately 15 partner congregations committed to new ministry with young adults. “Partner congregations can then apply for two-year innovation grants to implement their programs in 2019 to 2021,” said Kristina Frugé, program manager for the Riverside Innovation Hub. At the end of that experience, all program participants will share their key learnings. Augsburg will publish the results and share the outcomes and insights through conferences and workshops. “Vocation is at the center of this project,” Frugé said. “For congregations, it’s about discerning their call in relationship with their young adult neighbors. For young adults, it’s about a connection with a Christian community who can accompany them in exploring how faith and public life intersect in ways that matter most to them.” Melissa Lee ’04, Augsburg’s head softball coach, threw out a ceremonial first pitch before an August Minnesota Twins game at Target Field as part of the team’s annual Lutheran Night festivities. Lee joined former St. Olaf pitcher the Rev. Charlie Ruud, with the pair dressed in costume as historical husband and wife duo Martin Luther and Katharina (von Bora) Luther in celebration of the 500th anniversary of the 1517 Protestant Reformation. Ruud previously served as a Campus Ministry intern at Augsburg. 1 0 Y E A RS A GO In 2007, Oren Gateway Center opened, connecting Riverside Avenue with the James G. Lindell Library, which opened a decade earlier. OGC will lose the distinction of being Augsburg’s newest building when the Norman and Evangeline Hagfors Center for Science, Business, and Religion is completed in late 2017. FALL - WINTER 2017 3 A N O T H ER F IV E YEARS OF SERVING SCHOLARS Every year, more than two dozen undergraduate students participate in Augsburg’s McNair Scholars Program, an intensive 21 months of graduate school preparation that opens doors to some of the most competitive institutions in the U.S. What’s more, these McNair Scholars are from populations who statistically are less likely to have the opportunity to pursue advanced research and doctoral degrees—firstgeneration college students with financial need and/or students from racial and ethnic populations who are underrepresented in Each year, Augsburg selects two graduate education. McNair Scholars to represent Now, with a five-year renewal of its grant, the University at the Minnesota Private College Scholars Showcase Augsburg’s McNair Scholars, a federal TRIO at the Minnesota State Capitol. program funded by the U.S. Department of Education, will be able to continue supporting these students’ pursuit of advanced degrees through at least 2022. The McNair Scholars Program was created by the U.S. Congress in honor of Ronald E. McNair, one of the first African American astronauts in the U.S. space program. Augsburg’s program provides graduate school preparation workshops, travel to a national research conference, hands-on scholarly research projects with faculty mentors, and more. Since 2007, according to “Tina” Maria Tavera, director of the McNair Scholars Program, Augsburg McNair Scholars alumni have completed or are currently pursuing more than 30 master’s degrees, 19 doctoral degrees, two medical school degrees, and two doctor of pharmacy degrees. With nearly $1.2 million of future funding, Augsburg is excited to see further program success. Augsburg awarded $475,000 to infuse sustainability in university life Augsburg University has new opportunities to live out its commitment to sustainability on campus, in the community, and among institutional partners thanks to nearly half a million dollars in new grant funding from Margaret A. Cargill Philanthropies, a Minnesota-based foundation that believes colleges and universities can serve as models of operational sustainability for society at large. Using the grant award, Augsburg will facilitate student internships and other experiences at sustainability-focused organizations, strengthen and expand course offerings in Environmental Studies, fund student and faculty research, integrate In 2015, the Margaret sustainability and wellness A. Cargill Foundation contributed $1 million to across the academic the campaign to build the curriculum, and more. Hagfors Center for Science, “The next breakthrough Business, and Religion. in sustainability could come from a student majoring in communications, philosophy, or education,” said Allyson Green, Augsburg chief sustainability officer. “For all of us to live on this planet sustainably and equitably, we need all perspectives, experiences, types of knowledge, and skill sets to be part of the work.” Did you know? AN OC C A S IO N TO C E LE B R AT E Augsburg event series honors Reformation anniversary Augsburg held a series of events this fall marking the 500th anniversary of the Protestant Reformation. To kick off the series, Augsburg was honored to host ELCA Presiding Bishop Elizabeth Eaton for two events: the Christensen Symposium, which focused on interfaith friendships, and a panel discussion with representatives of #DecolonizeLutheranism, a grassroots movement challenging long-held patterns of white power and privilege in the ELCA and stereotypes of what it means to be Lutheran. The series continued in October, in observance of Heritage Day, when Mary Lowe, associate professor of religion, invited community members to consider Martin Luther’s perspectives on bodies and creation. Lowe explained how—even today—Luther’s theology relates to complex issues. Lowe discussed themes related to climate change, gender and sexuality, abuse, and deforestation. In November, award-winning musical group The Rose Ensemble presented “Welcome the People: The Musical Legacy of the Reformation.” The ensemble creates musical performances and educational programs that connect audiences to compelling stories of human history, culture, and spirituality from around the world. The celebration ends with this year’s Advent Vespers, the theme of which is inspired by Luther’s hymn, “From Heaven Above.” Visit augsburg.edu/now to learn more about Augsburg’s Reformation event series and Advent Vespers. 4 AUGSBURG NOW AROUND THE QUAD MAKING HISTORY VISIBLE In the basement of Wilson Library at the University of Minnesota Twin Cities, a team of researchers is working to map the history of racial segregation in Minneapolis. The group is unearthing racial restrictions buried in Minneapolis property deeds to create the first comprehensive visualization of historical racial covenants for a U.S. city. The project, called Mapping Prejudice, started with Augsburg’s Historyapolis Project, which seeks to illuminate the history of Minneapolis and has traced the roots of the city’s present-day racial disparities through historical research. To date, Mapping Prejudice researchers have found around 5,000 property deeds containing language that historically restricted ownership of residential properties by race. Enforcing these restrictions has been illegal in Minnesota for more than 60 years, but the records provide insight into the racial segregation that persists in Minneapolis neighborhoods. “Minneapolis is known for its parks, high-quality schools, and progressive politics,” said Kirsten Delegard, director of the Historyapolis Project and Augsburg scholar-in-residence. “Yet we have the highest racial disparities in the country.” Delegard said racial covenants were once pervasive in many U.S. cities and were instrumental in remaking the racial landscape of Minneapolis, which had not always been segregated. As many as 10,000 or more Minneapolis property deeds may contain such racially restrictive language. One of those properties is the Augsburg House, a residence on West River Road in Minneapolis that the University purchased in 1998. “When I saw the information that the Mapping Prejudice team had compiled for south Minneapolis, I suspected that Augsburg House originally had a racially restricted deed,” said Augsburg University President Paul Pribbenow. “Nearly every new development in south Minneapolis in the early 20th century carried those types of restrictions.” The property’s 1926 deed didn’t initially show up in the project’s electronic search process because the document was handwritten, but Delegard was able to locate the deed manually. The University has sought legal counsel regarding options for clarifying that Augsburg does not support discriminatory restrictions on the property. “At the same time, we want to ensure we maintain the historical record represented by the deed,” Pribbenow said, “so that we never lose track of the disgraceful manners in which covenants were used to segregate our communities and to inﬂict real harm on so many.” The Mapping Prejudice project is a massive undertaking, so the group strives to engage volunteers in the work. Many Augsburg students have become involved, including two history students who did semester-long internships last year helping build a digital map display and an entire history The Mapping Prejudice team includes Kevin Erhman-Solberg ’14 [left], a University of Minnesota graduate student in geographic information science; Penny Peterson [center], a veteran property records researcher; Kirsten Delegard [right], director of the Historyapolis Project and Augsburg scholar-in-residence; and Ryan Mattke [not pictured], a map and geospatial information librarian from the University of Minnesota. class that is working with the project throughout the fall semester this year. Several sociology classes got involved this past spring and summer, helping develop the program’s volunteer outreach strategy. Students from Pribbenow’s honors seminar also helped transcribe deeds this past spring, and a cohort of Augsburg first-year students engaged in the work as part of City Service Day at the beginning of the 2017 academic year. “We absolutely could not have developed the project without this kind of participation from both students and faculty,” said Delegard, who is continuing to seek funding that will allow the project to get even more students involved in all aspects of the work. Go to augsburg.edu/now to link to an interactive map illustrating the spread of racially restrictive deeds across Minneapolis during the first half of the 20th century and to learn more about getting involved in Mapping Prejudice research. FALL - WINTER 2017 5 AWARDS 2017 Top 25 LGBTQ-friendly Colleges & Universities: Augsburg was named to Campus Pride’s list of the top 25 LGBTQ-friendly colleges and universities in 2017. Campus Pride is the leading national organization for creating safer, more LGBTQ-friendly colleges and universities. Top 50 nationally for contribution to the public good: Augsburg was the No. 2 institution in Minnesota named by Washington Monthly in its 2017 Master’s Universities rankings. The list rates schools based upon their contribution to the public good in three categories: social mobility, research, and service. Top 25 schools for service-learning: Augsburg has been named one of U.S. News & World Report’s 2018 Top 25 Colleges and Universities for Service Learning. The sole Minnesota school on this list, Augsburg requires volunteering in the community as an instructional strategy. Schools garnering recognition were nominated by fellow institutions, college and university presidents or deans, and chief academic officers. At its September meeting, the Augsburg Corporation elected four additional members to the Board of Regents and re-elected three currently serving members. In addition, in accordance with the bylaws for Augsburg University, two bishops were appointed as ex-officio board members this fall. Augsburg University welcomes these new regents and thanks them for their service. • Eric J. Jolly, president and chief executive officer of Minnesota Philanthropy Partners. Jolly previously served on the Augsburg Board of Regents from 2008-2015. • Cynthia G. Jones ’81, senior level advisor for nuclear safety and analysis at the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission. Jones previously served on the Augsburg Board from 2010-2012. • Dean Kennedy ’75, co-founder and chief strategy officer of Texakoma Oil & Gas Corporation. Kennedy previously served on the Augsburg Board from 2005-2013. • Karolynn Lestrud ’68, retired photography and publishing industry professional; former board member in historic preservation and performing arts organizations; and active volunteer in arts, education, and theater. COURTESY PHOTO Elected to a new four-year term in 2017: Eric J. Jolly COURTESY PHOTO Recognition for being student-centered: For the second year in a row, The Wall Street Journal and Times Higher Education ranked Augsburg No. 2 in Minnesota for student engagement in the learning process in their ranking of U.S. colleges and universities. The student engagement score is based largely on results of a student survey that addresses how challenging classes are, whether they foster critical thinking and prompt students to make connections to the real world, and how much interaction the students have with faculty and other students. WELCOMES NEW MEMBERS Cynthia G. Jones ’81 COURTESY PHOTO Best Regional Universities: U.S. News & World Report again named Augsburg among the best universities in the Midwest. Rankings are based on factors including average firstyear retention rates, graduation rates, class sizes, student-to-faculty ratios, acceptance rates, and more. BOARD OF REGENTS Elected to a second four-year term: • Wayne Jorgenson ’71, senior vice president of wealth management at UBS Financial Services Inc. • Dennis Meyer ’78, chief marketing and business development officer at Robins Kaplan LLP • Pam Moksnes ’79, vice president for gift planning services, Lutheran Church Missouri Synod, through the Lutheran Church Extension Fund Elected to a third four-year term: • Ann Ashton-Piper, president of the IT consulting firm The Bridgie Group Appointed as ex-officio members of the Board of Regents for a three-year term: • The Rev. Patricia J. Lull, bishop of the Saint Paul Area Synod • The Rev. Steven H. Delzer, bishop of the Southeastern Minnesota Synod Dean Kennedy ’75 PHOTO BY CAROLINE YANG Augsburg University is consistently recognized for excellence. This year’s accolades include: Karolynn Lestrud ’68 S T C FA AROUND THE QUAD ON THE SPOT Communications expert describes history and peril of “fake news” WHILE THE TERM “FAKE NEWS” IS RELATIVELY NEW, the phenomenon, of course, is not. People throughout time have been motivated to share false information in ways that give it the appearance of legitimacy or to discredit accurate information in order to serve their own interests. Newer, digital media channels have made the tools to do so readily available and more effective, according to Jenny Hanson, assistant professor of communication studies, film, and new media. What’s more, social media sites tend to present users with information that confirms existing biases. In her classes, Hanson teaches students the media literacy skills necessary to be critical consumers of the news. Q: A: What is the history of “fake news” in media? Fake news has been around for centuries; it’s probably as old as humans’ ability to communicate. People seem to have a natural desire to tell tall tales. After all, spectacles draw crowds and outlandish stories trend. Fake news took off with the invention of the printing press in 1439, in part because stories were difficult to verify and mass distribution meant news could travel relatively quickly. A journalistic code of conduct toward objectivity and the practice of fact-checking did not yet exist. Stories about strange beasts, hideous crimes, and falsified scientific discoveries sold papers, and for advertising-supported publications, that was the goal. As journalism evolved and as newspapers came to rely on subscription models, impartiality and accuracy became guiding principles. In the 1980s, standards changed when cable TV made the 24/7 news cycle a reality. Next, the internet created alternate—and rapid— means of news distribution and increased access to content-creation tools among the general population. Today, new reasons for using fake news are emerging: to distract, to challenge existing knowledge, and to raise doubt about the validity of information, all in order to favor particular interests. In this way, calling something “fake news” and creating fake news both can be used to advance political, social, or personal interests in a way that functions more like propaganda. Calling something fake triggers a reaction in us to question and doubt, thereby decreasing our confidence in the information and opening us up to different possibilities. Q: A: What are the potential real-world implications? There are immense implications when news is inaccurate. Journalists understand that if they misreport, misquote, or just plain get the story wrong, there are often legal implications, damage to the outlet’s reputation, and harm to those wronged. When fake news is used as propaganda, it threatens the very legitimacy of news itself, inviting us to believe what is most aligned with our own ideologies rather than what actually is. The damage can be widespread, creating lasting impacts that go on to shape industry, policies, procedures, culture, artifacts of history, and society. Q: What can individuals do to protect themselves from falsities and to process news and information critically? A: There are many actions people can take to become savvy information consumers. The advice we tell students includes getting your news from a variety of sources, seeking connections on social media who have viewpoints differing from your own, and reading beyond the headline and before sharing information. In a critical reading, check the author’s credentials, watch out for emotional appeals or outrageous claims, look to see that sources are named and are experts in their fields, review the article date for context, and consider your own bias. Understand the source and their interests, and be sure websites are the official sites and not ones intended to mimic another’s appearance. Go to augsburg.edu/now to learn more about the line between falsehood and satire. FALL - WINTER 2017 7 2016-17 AUGSBURG UNIVERSITY ANNUAL REPORT When you give to Augsburg, you aren’t just supporting a private university—you’re paving the way for students to make a living, make a life, and make a community. The impact of your generosity can be seen in the lives of thousands of students who are now embracing financial security, finding their vocation, and following their calling. TO DONORS ENDOWMENT MARKET VALUE $40.5 $38.3 May 31, 2017—$43,878,362 $32.4 $28.2 $39.4 $34.6 $33.3 $31.5 $43.9 REVENUE BY SOURCE $29.8 75% 8% 7% $24.5 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 As of May 31, 2017, Augsburg University’s endowment had annual realized and unrealized gains of 12.19 percent. The five-year average annual return on the endowment is 8.21 percent, and the 10-year average annual return is 4.34 percent. The University is committed to maintaining the value of the principal to provide support to Augsburg in perpetuity. Your philanthropy is creating an Augsburg that will be SUSTAINABLE, 7% 3% EXPENSES BY CATEGORY 38% 33% 20% 4% 3% 2% 1% Salaries and Benefits Financial Aid Operating Expenses Debt Services Utilities and Insurance Student Compensation Capital Improvement FAITHFUL,and RELEVANT long into the future. Thanks to you and other committed friends, Augsburg is preparing students of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds to serve and lead in our communities, schools, places of worship, and businesses. During fiscal year 2016-17, more than 9,300 individual donors gave $17,216,961 through cash gifts, pledges, and planned gifts. Augsburg Fund supporters provided the University with more than $1.1 million in unrestricted, discretionary funds to improve the student experience. Tuition Room and Board Private Gifts and Grants Other Sources Federal Grants MAKE A LIVING When juggling the rigors of family life, owning three businesses, and coaching high school sports, starting a graduate program might not hit the top priority list for many people. But for Joe Tadros ’98, ’17 MBA, the benefits of pursuing a Master of Business Administration degree to further his career and build greater financial security for his family were worth the effort. “My graduate experience was an eye opener. It reminded me where I came from, and where I wanted to be in the future,” said Tadros. “My classmates had unique abilities and talents, and I learned so much from them.” Joe Tadros ’98, ’17 MBA Shika Addo Memorial Scholarship Tadros now serves as a guest lecturer for Augsburg finance classes, sharing life lessons with undergraduates. With his degree, and your gifts, he looks to the future with confidence, knowing that his kids will be well provided for and that his impact will extend beyond his career. MAKE A LIFE As a shy, small-town kid, Kevin Tran ’18 would never have believed it had someone told him that as a college student he would become a board member for three student organizations, travel abroad with the choir, work as an intern for US Bank, and volunteer in the community in his free time. Tran began to really come out of his shell by living his life through the Auggie experience. “When I came [to Augsburg], I didn’t know what to expect. In high school, I was just really all about my work. Augsburg exposed me to who I am supposed to be ... I became more independent, more knowledgeable, more vocal, and more myself.” Kevin Tran ’18 Leland and Louise Sundet Scholarship Because of you, Tran has found his calling and is planning to pursue his dream by working in marketing for the entertainment industry in Los Angeles. MAKE A COMMUNITY Singing, studying, social work, public policy, and reconstructing the criminal justice system. These are among the top priorities for Augsburg student Alexa Anderson ’19. Anderson may be a proud member of the Honors Program and Augsburg vocal ensembles, but the deeper she dives into her studies as a social work major, the more motivated she has become to change her community through restorative justice. Alexa Anderson ’19 Mabeth Saure Gyllstrom Scholarship Dorothy Lijsing Kleven President’s Scholarship in Choral Music “Augsburg has completely changed me as a person, specifically regarding how I view my role as a member of a community,” she said. “Before coming here, I didn’t understand how important being an active member of a community was. Through my classes, volunteering, internships, and living in the Cedar-Riverside neighborhood, I now believe that in order for a community to succeed, its members must act and live in a way that encourages understanding, acceptance, and unity.” A NEW DAY, A NEW KIND OF UNIVERSITY BY JESSICA MUELLER AUGSBURG UNIVERSITY DAY was a moment of celebration—a time to honor and appreciate the abiding principles on which Augsburg was founded and an opportunity to consider Augsburg’s commitment to shaping the world for generations to come. Augsburg marked the transition from college to university through a commemorative day full of fun and fellowship. And, although Augsburg College officially became Augsburg University on September 1, the campus threw its proverbial hat in the air a few days later—on September 5, the day Augsburg formally welcomed its most diverse incoming class in school history. OPENING CONVOCATION On September 5, Augsburg’s Class of 2021 rose early to participate in the grand finale of their welcome week: Opening Convocation. New students marched across campus, past rows of cheering faculty and staff, and toward Hoversten Chapel with pride (and maybe a few sheepish grins), to engage in a historic beginning for them and for their school: the commissioning of Augsburg University’s inaugural first-year class. This year’s event featured elements linked with Augsburg’s commitments to faith, diversity, and vocation: Lutheran hymns, interfaith blessings, and international flags representing the countries from which Augsburg students come. President Paul Pribbenow encouraged new Auggies to do justly, love mercy, walk humbly ... and follow him on Twitter. And that was just the beginning. A MOMENT TO REMEMBER Following Opening Convocation, the Class of 2021 processed from the chapel to the quad where they were met by stilt walkers, local musicians, Haitian and Somali dancers, and the smells of dishes as varied and diverse as the neighborhoods surrounding Augsburg’s metropolitan campus. More than 800 students, faculty, staff, and friends of the University convened to feast on sambusas, Mexican tacos, cotton candy, brats and sauerkraut, and, in some cases, all of the above. 10 AUGSBURG NOW Students had nearly two hours to take in their surroundings, grab food, pose at the Auggie photo booth, and assemble hygiene kits for the Augsburg Health Commons, which serves unsheltered persons throughout Minneapolis. Many even had time to read a proclamation, signed by Minnesota Gov. Mark Dayton, naming September 5, 2017, Augsburg University Day. A UNIVERSITY OF THE CITY In the afternoon, more than 500 students, faculty, and staff gathered in small groups and dispersed throughout Minneapolis to listen to, learn from, and volunteer with local partners and nonprofits with ties to Augsburg. In total, the Class of 2021 donated nearly $35,000 in service work at more than 20 Twin Cities locations. The entire string of events—from the convocation, to the celebration, to the service-learning opportunities—demonstrated that Augsburg’s name change was much more than updated monument signs (though they do look nice), letterhead, and websites. The name change was a collaborative effort to share Augsburg’s story—the narrative of a place that’s deeply embedded in its community, that richly lives out its traditions, and that points to a bolder vision of what a student-centered, urban university can be … small to its students, and big for the world. FALL - WINTER 2017 11 The fatherhood BONUS a n d th e PENALTY motherhood BY KATE H. ELLIOTT G r o un d b r e a k i n g r e s e a rch by alum na M i c he l l e B u d i g ’ 9 3 s h eds light on wage ga p b e t we e n f a t h e rs and m others Michelle Budig’s story is deeply woven into her pioneering research to expose gender inequality and examine family policies in the workforce. The product of an outspoken dental receptionist and a pious electrician— who staked the yard with opposing political signs—Budig learned from a young age to question, wonder, and voice her beliefs. In preschool, for example, she insisted her class change the lyrics of “Yankee Doodle Dandy” to remove “and with the girls be handy.” But despite her early and strong advocacy for girls’ rights, Budig still believed that as an adult she would have to choose between motherhood and a meaningful career. Indeed, at 22, she married her Augsburg sweetheart, nurse practitioner Peter Landstrom ’91, but then waited almost 20 years—until 12 AUGSBURG NOW after she secured tenure as a sociology professor—to adopt their daughter, Lucy. Her beliefs about how things should be were tempered by her understanding of how things actually are. It may be no surprise, then, that Budig focused her scholarly research on the impact of parenting across gender—specifically the wage inequities between fathers and mothers across the pay scale. Her latest findings, currently making rounds in The New York Times and the like, assert that although the gender pay gap is decreasing (women now make about 76 cents for every man’s dollar), wage inequalities among parents who work are increasing. Overall, fathers incur an average wage increase of more than 6 percent with each child, while women experience, on average, a 4 percent decrease in salary per child. Fatherhood, ultimately, is considered a “valued characteristic, signaling perhaps a greater work commitment, stability, and deservingness,” said Budig, Sociology Department chair at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. Mothers, on the other hand, are often perceived as “exhausted and distracted at work,” rendering them less productive. Beyond perception, other significant contributors to the discrepancy include that women often take time off to care for children and bypass higher wages for mom-friendly roles. “Kids are seen as a privilege, not a right, so if you want to have them, you must pay the price,” Budig said, referencing a view some hold. PHOTO COURTESY OF JOHN SOLEM, UNIVERSITY OF MASSACHUSETTS AMHERST TY Michelle Budig ’93 is an award-winning professor and author whose research interests focus on gender, employment, labor markets, earnings, stratification, and family. FALL - WINTER 2017 13 But it’s not as simple as “dads make more, moms make less,” Budig said. Using sophisticated statistical techniques on a large sample of U.S. workers, Budig found that parenting exacerbates earnings inequalities within genders depending on income. The “fatherhood bonus,” as she calls it, is highest for the most advantaged men—married, white, college graduates with professional jobs. Unmarried, black men in non-professional occupations, for instance, receive minimal—if any—bonus. The motherhood penalty is smallest among women who earn above the 90th percentile of female workers, with women at the very top of the income distribution experiencing no wage penalty. Low-to-average earning women incur the greatest motherhood penalty, Budig found. “I always thought that women who made the most would have the most to lose, but that is certainly not the case, and it makes complete sense when you consider factors and stressors influencing populations at the top and bottom of the pay scale,” Budig said. “Fathers and mothers earning lower wages often rely on fragile networks of free child care, and when a grandmother or friend is sick or doesn’t show, those parents can’t make it to work. Conversely, parents who can afford it, secure reliable, consistent child care operated by licensed professionals.” Additionally, lower-earning men and women statistically are more likely to have children, Budig said, which leads to higher penalties for those families. Accessible child care among policies to close the gap Budig suggests two policy shifts to reduce the gap: publicly funded, high-quality child care for babies and toddlers and nontransferable paid leave for both mothers and fathers. The “nontransferable” part is critical, Budig reiterated, as “evidence suggests that if fathers can transfer leave to a female partner, they will.” “Access for all to high-quality, reliable, licensed child care options would certainly even the playing field for both parents and children,” Budig said. “Think of all the stress it would alleviate from low-income families relying on less dependable child care. Businesses would likely be more productive with a more resilient, consistent workforce. And children growing up in low-income situations would benefit from the same instruction and care as wealthier families, giving those young ones a stronger start.” This approach is not new. Many Scandinavian countries, which support publicly funded child care and offer incentivized paternal leave, report smaller It' s not as simple as “dads make more, moms make less.” Wider wage gaps among lower-earning individuals are exacerbated by the fact that people tend to marry within socioeconomic situations, Budig adds, so low-earning couples take greater hits, while highly paid duos keep climbing. 14 AUGSBURG NOW or no parental pay gaps. In contrast, countries with entrenched gender roles, like Germany, where new mothers are expected to take a year or more off work, report the highest motherhood penalties. “Workplace policies matter,” Budig Budig’s 19-page curriculum vitae details the more than $725,000 in grants she’s received, including some from the National Science Foundation, and lists her articles in professional journals, including the American Sociological Review. She regularly contributes to national and international media outlets, including The New York Times, Money Magazine, and the Washington Post. said. “Most of my life, I had to choose between being a mother and having a meaningful career, and unless progressive policies are adopted, the parental and economic gaps will persist.” The Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development ranked the United States last in a study the intergovernmental organization conducted about the national paid maternity leave policies of its member countries. The average amount of paid leave time for mothers among its 35-member countries was a little more than one year, as of 2016. Budig notes there is progress on the state level, citing California’s paid family leave, which allows family members to take time off to care for a loved one or to bond with a new child entering their life (either by birth, adoption, or foster care). Without a comprehensive federal approach, however, Budig warns of the implications of inconsistencies across states. “It’s encouraging to see states and companies take action, but it leads to inequities among states and industries, which may only add to our country’s increasing divide,” said Budig, who has testified before Congress and the United Nations about the implications of her research. “More universal support will reduce wage gaps, promote greater equality, and better prepare our children to be productive members of society.” The culture is shifting as men embrace female roles But beyond evolutions in policy, Budig sees hope in the young people she interacts with as a professor and mentor. They expect both parties—and want both partners—to be involved in maintaining the household. Single-paycheck families are difficult to sustain, and popular books and blogs are encouraging mothers to shed the mom guilt, cast aside the superwoman expectations, and go order a pizza for dinner. “Believe me, I get it. Even with the most supportive husband, who as a nurse, experiences his own gender stereotypes, I still slip into unrealistic expectations,” said Budig, who earned a master’s and doctorate in sociology from the University of Arizona. “Our marriage is a constant conversation, and splitting up the chores by room works for us.” A 2016 PayScale Gender Pay Gap Report found that men still out-earn women in every state in the union, but Vermont is the closest to equality, with women earning 84.8 percent of what men earn overall, as opposed to Alabama, Louisiana, Texas, and Wyoming where women earn from 71 to 73 percent of their male counterparts’ income. The national average is 76 percent, per the report, which does not factor in years of experience, education, or job title. When such national statistics were first calculated in the 1970s, it was about 60 percent. Mentors pushed her to live with a ‘heart for service’ Budig lost both her parents nearly two years ago. She often wishes she could talk with her mom about her latest research, knowing her mom would get a kick out of hearing about innovative solutions to promote equality and increase access for women. “My mom was wildly supportive of my work, but I’ll never forget the first time she read a major study I published about the wage gap. I was driving, and she was in the back seat. She looked up and said, ‘Michelle, everyone knows women earn less than men. That’s what you’ve been working on?’ Gee, thanks, mom,” Budig said. “I think she would have appreciated this last batch of research and what I’m focused on next, which involves female entrepreneurs and a study about the motherhood penalty in Israel.” Although there is no replacing a driveand-talk with mom, Budig is not short on inspiring female mentors. At Augsburg, where she majored in English and sociology, Budig sought out educators to support her journey. Sociology Professor Diane Pike has taught Auggies for more than three decades, and Budig certainly stands out. “Michelle had a seriousness and sophistication about intellectual ideas and work that was exemplary, and being a first-generation student, she never lost sight of the privilege it is to pursue higher education. She set the bar high for herself, and we’ve been following her career ever since,” said Pike, who specializes in organizational analysis, sociological theory, and research methods. “There is nothing better than seeing one of your students succeed at such a level. Michelle’s a big deal in sociology, speaking at top conferences and advocating for important change. She has a rare ability to convey complex data and theories to general audiences, and we are very proud of her.” Budig’s Auggie roots run deep, and both she and Landstrom commit themselves to its mission through caregiving and advocating for change. Augsburg gave them a way of looking at the world and approaching life that will never leave them, Budig said. “The greatest takeaway from Augsburg is our desire—the responsibility, really— to give back and live with a heart for service to others. Every day, we try to live out that change in our personal and professional lives.” FALL - WINTER 2017 15 N I E U G O DIAL SOCIETIES D E D I V I D 20 17 N ob e l Pe a ce P rize Forum li s o p nea n i M — [Above] Representatives of the Tunisian National Dialogue Quartet are joined on stage by Peace Scholars and other participants at the closing ceremony of the Forum. [Left] During a break, the 2015 Nobel Peace Prize laureates posed for photos in front of a three-story mural featuring their images along with dozens of other past laureates. N obel Peace Prize laureates, world leaders, and renowned peacemakers came together this fall as Augsburg University hosted the 29th annual Nobel Peace Prize Forum—Minneapolis. As an international peace congress, the Forum united honored guests, students, and community members in considering the globally significant, multidimensional nature of peace by examining topics that ranged from disarmament and human rights to economic development and environmental sustainability. This year’s Forum kicked off with several hundred attendees filling Augsburg’s Si Melby Gymnasium to listen to the incredible, true story of the 2015 Nobel Laureates—leaders who inspired a sharply divided nation to find common ground and, ultimately, form one of the world’s newest democracies. During a conversation presented in both English and Arabic, representatives of the Tunisian National Dialogue 16 AUGSBURG NOW Quartet described an arduous and inspiring peacemaking model in which members of business, labor, human rights, and law disciplines crafted a sustaining democratic constitution through peaceful dialogue. Recognized collectively with the 2015 Nobel Peace Prize for their contribution to building a pluralistic democracy in Tunisia following the Jasmine Revolution of 2011, the Tunisian National Dialogue Quartet is made up of leaders from four key organizations in the north African nation’s civil society. In the tense early moments of the Arab Spring uprisings, the Quartet exercised its role as a mediator and demonstrated the power of civil communication in sensitive political circumstances. Perhaps no other Forum experience better illustrated the event’s overarching theme: Dialogue in Divided Societies. Nobel Peace Prize Forum art festival Augsburg University has served as the Nobel Peace Prize Forum’s official host since 2012, but in recent years, the event itself has taken place at several conference venues across the Twin Cities. Bringing the Forum back to Augsburg this fall gave global peacebuilders the opportunity to experience the unique, urban beauty of the University’s location and to engage with a large-scale outdoor art exhibition on display across campus. In the spirit of fostering dialogue during the Nobel Peace Prize Forum, artists from across the United States collaborated on installations that highlighted the layered and often overlapping complexity of finding solutions to global issues. The art exhibition was curated by Christopher Houltberg, assistant professor of art and director of Augsburg’s Design & Agency program, a student-run design studio experience that teaches design thinking and problem-solving in graphic design. One of the most talked-about installations at the Nobel Peace Prize Forum was a Hex House constructed in Murphy Square. Designed by Architects for Society, a nonprofit seeking to enhance the built environment for disadvantaged communities, the Hex House is a prototype for dignified, low-cost, flexible housing that’s easy to deploy in emergency situations. Given that the Forum dates fell just after Hurricanes Harvey and Irma brought havoc and destruction to the Caribbean, Texas, and Florida, the Hex House was a timely opportunity to see how smart design can address critical community needs. Building peace in the greater Twin Cities, around the world Throughout the four days of the 2017 program, attendees participated in dozens of breakout sessions led by globally recognized leaders in the fields of international development and peacemaking. Participants had the opportunity to meet and hear from national and world leaders—including Norwegian Ambassador to the United States Kåre Aas, Tunisian Ambassador to the United States H.E. Fayçal Gouia, U.S. Sen. Amy Klobuchar, and U.S. Rep. Keith Ellison. Other often-recognized presenters at the event included former congresswoman Gabby Giffords, who is seeking to end gun violence, and Barbara Bush, who founded the Global Health Corps organization to mobilize young leaders to support health equity. The Nobel Peace Prize Forum also prompted attendees to consider local peace-building needs, convening conversations focused on present-day issues in the Twin Cities. Students, community members, and facilitators worked through difficult discussions on respecting and honoring sacred spaces, bridging political differences through civil dialogue, and addressing cross-generational injustice. These mediated conversations went beyond campus to places that brought the topics to life. For example, part of the dialogue on preserving Native American sites took place in suburban Eagan at Pilot Knob, an area that was an indigenous gathering place and sacred burial ground for centuries. “It’s entirely fitting that these important conversations are happening at Augsburg University as part of the Nobel Peace Prize Forum,” said the Forum’s Program Director Joe Underhill, reflecting on the entire event. “A university is a place where civic dialogue on difficult topics is not only allowed, but highly encouraged,” said Underhill, an associate professor of political science at Augsburg. “It is only through that kind of dialogue that we are going to move toward any mutual understanding on these issues.” [Far left] Augsburg Design & Agency students created numerous large-scale art installations to convey the theme, Dialogue in Divided Societies. [Near left] The Hex House, a low-cost, emergency housing prototype, showcased how smart design can create humane solutions during crises. FALL - WINTER 2017 17 JOIN US FOR THE 30TH [Above] Chief Arvol Looking Horse and Methodist Bishop Bruce Ough visit the Red Rock, a boulder that is located at a United Methodist Church in Newport, Minnesota, and considered sacred by the Dakota people. The 2017 Forum included site visits addressing local peace-building topics. September 19–22, 2018 Augsburg University [Left] Interactive art installations allowed Forum attendees to participate in creating displays that reflected their own perspectives on peacemaking. PRESENTED BY LEAD SPONSORS ® SPONSORS MEDIA SPONSORS 45 0 100 3 18 AUGSBURG NOW #93C33A 0 70 85 0 #F76 WOMENOF INFLUENCE BY KATE H. ELLIOTT Augsburg outscores national average of female coaches, supports inclusive culture across Athletics department “Only priests and participants’ fathers can be anywhere near the pool,” three St. Catherine’s nuns echoed in protest as Augsburg’s 1963 swim instructor, Malcolm “Mac” Gimse, led then-20-year-old Joyce Pfaff ’65 and three other physical education majors onto the pool deck. Gimse reluctantly exited the building, but as the Auggies lined up at water’s edge, “GO AUGSBURG” boomed from the stands. Pfaff looked up, and there was her instructor, wearing a big smile and a clerical collar. Call it obstinate or call it resolute, but Pfaff adopted that tenacity—and it helped her climb over, chisel away, and bust down a decade’s worth of walls in women’s athletics and coaching prior to the passage of Title IX, a federal law that allows women access to any federally funded educational program or activity. So, it comes as no surprise that Augsburg’s first women’s athletic director is “beyond proud” that a recent report ties Augsburg with Macalester College as the Minnesota Intercollegiate Athletic Conference’s schools with the most female head coaches. Head Women’s and Men’s Cross Country Coach Meghan Peyton ’14 MAL leads a team practice. FALL - WINTER 2017 19 PHOTO BY CYNDI NIGHTENGALE, CYNBADMEDIA This distinction, out of the University of Minnesota’s Tucker Center for Research on Women and Girls in Sport, is particularly encouraging as national studies point to dramatic decreases in women coaching women’s sports. When Title IX was passed in 1972, women coached 90 percent of women’s collegiate athletic teams. Today, only about 40 percent of those teams are led by female coaches, according to the NCAA. Augsburg hits national average out of the park Pfaff coached at a time before women’s athletics were afforded official equipment or facilities. In fact, Pfaff helped build Augsburg’s first softball field. Today, she remains confident in Augsburg’s ability to advance equality. According to the Tucker Center, Augsburg leapt from having slightly more than 36 percent female head coaches in 2014 to nearly 73 percent in 2017. “Think of how far we’ve come,” Pfaff said. “Augsburg’s first volleyball coach, Mary Timm ’81, could ‘afford’ to coach for us because she had a full-time job as a day care supervisor, and she used vacation time to travel with the team. Today, Augsburg has more women’s teams (11) than 20 AUGSBURG NOW men’s (10), and the Athletic Department works hard to create an equitable, forward-thinking, and inclusive culture.” Augsburg Athletic Director Jeff Swenson ’79 and Associate Athletic Director Kelly Anderson Diercks appreciate the Tucker Center’s acknowledgement of Augsburg’s dedication to women’s athletics. University leaders are ever-vigilant in their efforts to support all coaches, staff, and student-athletes in achieving a well-balanced life. “Coaching demands all of you and more, with 365-day recruiting on top of practices, planning, and leading studentathletes in competition and out in their everyday lives,” said Swenson, who has worked at Augsburg for more than 36 years. “We are committed to work-life integration. The best coaches are fulfilled, healthy, and productive members at home and in the community— an approach to life we want to mirror for our student-athletes.” Anderson Diercks recruits coaches and advises studentathletes interested in transitioning from court to clipboard. She is keenly aware of the factors contributing to the diminishing number of female coaches across the U.S. and emphasizes that even if you’re in a position of success, there’s still room for improvement. It’s vital for all students to see women as role models in all professions, including athletics. —Kelly Anderson Diercks, associate athletic director “College athletic departments need to do a better job of recruiting and retaining women coaches through mentoring, professional development, and supportive cultures,” she said. “And it is critically important that this conversation is not just about women coaching women. It should be about women in coaching, which includes women coaching boys and men. It’s vital for all students to see women as role models in all professions, including athletics.” Popularity of women’s athletics contributes to decline in coaching equity The NCAA’s findings suggest that a major factor contributing to the decline of women coaching women is, ironically, tied to the boom of women’s athletics. With increased popularity came expanded staffs and higher salaries, attracting men—particularly longtime assistant coaches—to lead women’s teams. And while 60 percent of women’s teams are coached by men, according to the study, women guide only about 3 percent of men’s teams. Roughly 80 percent of collegiate athletic directors are men. Is a solution to ignore gender? “Absolutely not,” Anderson Diercks said. “Like any dimension of diversity, to ignore or deny a part of someone’s identity does not allow them to show up as their fullest and best self, and then we all miss out. There is richness in diversity, and women are an important part of that diversity, especially in the athletic arena.” A coaching job is demanding, with long hours, travel, and high expectations, but those pressures can be overcome, Swenson said. The more universities exemplify work-life balance, the more family-oriented student-athletes, regardless of gender, will be drawn to the profession, he added. Negative perceptions still cast a shadow Stigmas, misconceptions, and high stakes also contribute to the decline in women seeking and maintaining leadership roles in university athletics, according to the NCAA. Interviews with female coaches across the U.S. drew out comments about increasing demands, assumptions about female coaches’ sexuality, and perceived gender bias. Augsburg Women’s Hockey Head Coach Michelle McAteer said if she could squash an assumption curbing female coaches, it would be the belief that “all women are catty and emotional.” “Since women hold fewer leadership positions in all realms— from athletics and business to politics—we are put under a microscope and our actions are generalized,” she said. “Women in leadership need to become the norm and not the exception in order to combat these myths so we can get onto the business of empowering those we lead (and winning games).” And she would know. McAteer, who led the Augsburg women’s hockey team to its highest MIAC finish since the ’90s, played for female coaches throughout her high school and college years. These models of “strength, resolve, and compassion” gave her confidence and an awareness of her role now, as a coach, to model those values for the next generation, she said. “It’s a responsibility I care deeply about.” For Pfaff, this and other reflections from today’s women coaches signal that the legacy she and others fought to instill is [L to R]: Women’s Lacrosse Head Coach Kathryn Knippenberg and Graduate Fellow Taylor Tvedt ’19 MAL greet a prospective student. holding strong. Sure, there always is yet another contest to win, she said, but what’s the fun in not having a fight? The best part, for Pfaff, is knowing that Augsburg is on the right side of the field—maybe even the infield she helped grade for Augsburg’s first softball diamond. FALL - WINTER 2017 21 AUGGIES CONNECT AUGSBURG WOMEN ENGAGED: COURTESY PHOTO Dear alumni and friends, It’s an exciting time for Augsburg University, and the Alumni Board aims to infuse positive energy from Augsburg’s big events this fall in our year-long agenda. The board’s objective is to advance Augsburg’s mission by making the most of the time, talents, and treasure found in our alumni group. Each year, the Alumni Board plans events where Auggies can network, collaborate, and serve together. The 2017 Summer Series was an example of this work. Auggies attended a Minnesota United soccer game, took part in Auggie Night at Canterbury Park, and listened to Augsburg community members give presentations on a range of topics at the 7 People 7 Passions 7 Minutes event at Sisyphus Brewing. Alumni Board members also hosted Happy Hour Squared at Brave New Workshop, which featured a twist on a traditional social hour— attendees enjoyed beverages while making 1,500 sandwiches for unsheltered people in the Twin Cities. It is fun watching the talents of fellow Auggies come to life at our social events, and our upcoming calendar is available online: augsburg.edu/alumnievents. Using your time and talents to make connections with current students is simply one of the best ways to stay connected with Augsburg, so stay tuned for details about the upcoming 2018 Auggie Networking Experience on February 6. Auggies also can join the Alumni Board’s effort to sponsor a tree in the Urban Arboretum planned for Augsburg’s Minneapolis campus. The trees selected for the first phase of this plan will surround the Norman and Evangeline Hagfors Center for Science, Business, and Religion and include species native to Minnesota. All gift levels are welcome. As the Alumni Board continues to advance the mission of the University through events and networking, we invite you to join us. We work hard, and we make sure we don’t forget to have fun, as well. MOVING IN A NEW DIRECTION The Augsburg Women Engaged Philanthropy Council has grown in the past year. Augsburg alumnae formed AWE in 2009 to unite women with shared interests and passions through events, mentorship, and philanthropy. Today, AWE inspires women to connect, learn, and give. AWE highlights: Connect—Members gathered at Homecoming for a painting party to prepare pieces of a mural titled “Emergence” that will be installed in the Norman and Evangeline Hagfors Center for Science, Business, and Religion. Learn—AWE hosted a discussion following the 2016 Center for Wellness and Counseling Convocation and a pre-concert reception at the annual Woman Voice: Voice of Hope choral performance. Give—Members raised more than $100,000 for the “Emergence” mural and are engaged in planning to raise an additional $1 million for scholarships. AWE’s participation has nearly doubled during the past year and includes Augsburg women from all generations, degree programs, and career fields. COURTESY PHOTO FROM THE ALUMNI BOARD PRESIDENT Go Auggies! NICK RATHMANN ’03, ALUMNI BOARD PRESIDENT AWE Philanthropy Council members [L to R]: Debby (Fredrickson) Crowley ’76, Danielle Stellner ’07, Joni Marti ’05 MAL, Lori Moline ’82, Martha Truax ’16 MAL, Shelby (Gimse) Andress ’56, Lisa Zeller ’81, ’89 MAL, Cheryl Jensen ’86, Donna McLean, and Kris (Peterson) Pearson ’78. Not pictured: Rachel (Olson) Engebretson ’98, Dr. Lisa Latham ’83, Diana Pierce ’16 MAL, and Cindy (Winberg) Sisson ’83. Visit augsburg.edu/now to learn more about joining AWE. 22 AUGSBURG NOW AUGGIES CONNECT Celebrate STEPUP ® PROGRAM MARKS 20 YEARS OF SUCCESS COURTESY PHOTO A Heidi Bausch ’07 ugsburg University’s StepUP Program is in its 20th year of empowering students in recovery to achieve academic success. StepUP held its annual gala October 28. The gala was an evening of inspiration and fellowship in which emcee Don Shelby, an Emmy-award-winning broadcast journalist and person in recovery, welcomed nearly 500 Auggies, families, friends, and advocates for recovery. Each year, the StepUP Gala is organized by a committee of volunteers with support from Augsburg staff. The 2017 committee co-chairs were Gina Gage and Cindy Piper. Two of the evening’s highlights were the keynote address by alumna Heidi Bausch ’07 and the presentation of the Toby Piper Labelle Award to the James and Sally Dowdle and Pat and Jeanne Dwyer families. Bausch is celebrating the 10th anniversary of her graduation from Augsburg, where she studied psychology and philosophy, was an active member in the StepUP community, and worked for the Center for Wellness and Counseling. Today Bausch lives out a passion for serving the recovery community. She is pursuing a doctorate in counseling psychology at the University of St. Thomas. Her clinical practice included an internship at The Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation’s residential program for young people and work at the University of Minnesota Medical Center, Fairview inpatient unit for youth facing chemical and mental health difficulties. Bausch also works with the Minnesota Psychology Association to promote legislation aimed at improving behavioral health care quality. This year, Bausch partnered with her StepUP Program roommate, Samantha Yerks ’06, to launch Singularity Behavioral Systems & Technology, a business that develops clinical software products for the mental health field. Go to augsburg.edu/stepup to learn more about the StepUP Program and its fundraising gala. FALL - WINTER 2017 23 introduces high school students to health science careers When University alumni and community members step up to help make an Augsburg program succeed, everybody wins. Since 2008, Augsburg University has hosted Metro Scrubs summer camps that offer high school students a glimpse into health science careers. Through workshops and hands-on activities, students gain insight into career paths that range from veterinary medicine and public health to physical therapy and nursing. The success of the weeklong program— formerly known as Urban Scrubs— hinges on faculty involvement and volunteer engagement through which working professionals teach workshops and mini-courses. This year, an Augsburg alumna and the parent of two Auggie alumni stepped in to offer their expertise—and to learn a thing or two from their pupils. Jenny Kelley ’85 pursued a nursing degree after completing her Augsburg education and now serves as a nurse and asthma educator at the Hennepin County Medical Center in COURTESY PHOTO METRO SCRUBS PROGRAM Nearly six dozen students participated in Augsburg’s Metro Scrubs Camp this summer. One of nine such programs for Minnesota high school students, Metro Scrubs is a collaborative effort of Augsburg University, HealthForce Minnesota, Fairview Health Services, and St. Catherine University. Minneapolis. Kelley initiated a Metro Scrubs class by asking students to inhale and exhale through a narrow cocktail straw, an exercise that highlighted how difficult it is for someone with asthma to breathe. Kelley noticed that her students were from a diverse array of backgrounds, but previous knowledge of asthma was something that unified the group. “I felt I was having an impact on students from many different cultures and different communities,” Kelley said. “Yet, everyone knows somebody with asthma, so this education is helpful in ensuring people use their inhalers the right way.” One out of 12 people in the U.S. is diagnosed with asthma. For Kelley, leading a Metro Scrubs course was a way to teach young people about the medical condition and to spur interest in careers that could help tackle this pressing health care need. For Dr. Robert “Bob” Florence, a primary care internist at Allina in Vadnais Heights, Minnesota, teaching Metro Scrubs students was an opportunity to reconnect with the basics. Florence knows Augsburg well through his children, Jeffrey Florence ’02 and Beth Florence ’08, and he noted that teaching high school students was a reminder about the importance of clear doctor-patient communication. “I show the students what it’s like to do an office call with a patient, explaining the types of interactions I have with patients, along with the best and worst ways to handle certain scenarios,” Florence said. “I began teaching the class because the students hadn’t been exposed to primary care in the other Metro Scrubs sessions, and I wanted to teach them what they could and should expect.” While it can be difficult to fit extra opportunities into a physician’s hectic schedule, Florence said leading Metro Scrubs classes has been worthwhile. “It has helped me to be a better physician and taught students interested in medical careers valuable lessons,” he said. Visit augsburg.edu/now to learn more about volunteer and sponsorship opportunities with Metro Scrubs Camp. 24 AUGSBURG NOW AUGGIES CONNECT GIFT EXPANDS MARINE AQUARIUM FACILITY for study of biological diversity When the Norman and Evangeline Hagfors Center for Science, Business, and Religion opens for classes in January 2018, the new building will feature a state-of-the-art marine aquarium facility thanks to the generosity of donor Fritz Grimm, who made a substantial gift to fund the project. Twenty years ago, Associate Professor of Biology William “Bill” Capman created a large multi-tank coral reef aquarium system on campus to inspire interest in biological diversity, to serve as a teaching and research tool, and to provide living specimens for lab demonstrations. In the years since, the aquaria have been integral to Capman’s teaching, making interaction with marine life a unique aspect of Augsburg’s biology laboratory experience, exposing students to biodiversity they would not see elsewhere, and promoting careful stewardship of the world’s ecosystems. Capman has been passionate about aquatic life since his childhood. He and Grimm, as fellow members of the Twin Cities Marine Aquarium Society, have known each other for years. Grimm is the former proprietor of a store selling items for keeping coral, fish, and other sea life, and has assisted Capman in past efforts to care for Augsburg’s aquaria. For Grimm, sponsoring Augsburg’s marine environments is a way to support quality work already underway and build on it for the future. Grimm’s gift is enabling Augsburg to significantly expand its marine facilities to include a 350 gallon coral reef aquarium and six additional 60-90 gallon tanks housing additional diverse organisms, along with a research lab for studying coral biology and captive breeding of coral reef fish. “We rely on places like this to inspire people,” Grimm said of Augsburg’s marine aquarium expansion. “How should people know they need to care about seahorses and coral without ever seeing them?” Grimm is concerned by the known degradation of natural environments, pointing to the fact that a significant portion of the world’s coral are becoming more susceptible to disease and are dying due to increases in water temperature and pollution. “If anyone is going to inspire the future generation to do something about it, it will be Bill,” Grimm said. During a presentation to the Minnesota Aquarium Society, Bill Capman demonstrates how he creates artificial reef structures for new aquaria. COURTESY PHOTOS FALL - WINTER 2017 25 ALUMNI CLASS NOTES 1950 Carl Vaagenes ’50, a retired pastor, helped to translate the mission articles of Georg Sverdrup. Vaagenes was inspired to translate Sverdrup’s sermons for future generations and did this as a member of The Georg Sverdrup Society. In 1898, Georg Sverdrup and Sven Oftedal, co-founders of Augsburg Seminary and College, published their sermons at the founding of the Lutheran Free Church but without their names. In “Aand og Liv” (“Spirit and Life”), they reveal their mind and heart for the church and for Augsburg. 1952 Millie Nelson ’52 received a Spirit of Augsburg Award at Homecoming in recognition for her dedication to Augsburg University. Before retiring, Nelson worked at Augsburg for decades. In her role as Christensen Center manager, she guided student assistants who described her as professional, competent, knowledgeable, and kind. These former students acknowledged that Nelson embodied the spirit of Augsburg. 1957 Stan Baker ’57 received the Ella Stephens Barrett Award for excellence in professional leadership and counseling from the North Carolina Counseling Association during its annual conference in February in Durham, North Carolina. 1964 Garrett “Gary” Waldner ’64 and his wife, Nancy, celebrated their 50th anniversary in October. They have three sons and four grandchildren. Waldner is active in the real estate appraisal field, specializing in litigation valuations. 1966 After graduating from Augsburg, Ron Blake ’66 went on to Luther Seminary and has pastored several churches before retiring in 2009 as a pastor with dual membership in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America and the United Church of Christ. Blake and his wife remain active members of Trinity Lutheran Church in Lynnwood, Washington. They have two children and four grandsons. 1968 Bruce Benson ’68 received a Distinguished Alumni Award at Homecoming. Benson served as campus pastor at St. Olaf College for 30 years and has been a board member at church camps in Minnesota, Montana, and Ohio. He graduated cum laude from Augsburg with a Bachelor of Arts in English, earned his Master of Divinity degree from Luther Seminary in 1972, and further earned a degree in Sacred Theology from Yale Divinity School in 1980. Benson hosts a radio program called, “Sing for Joy,” which is broadcast on 140 radio stations in the United States, carried by cable networks, and broadcast in 40 countries in and near Africa. 1970 Mark Francis ’70 received a Distinguished Alumni Award at Homecoming and was recognized for his leadership in the Arizona school system. After graduating from Augsburg with a music degree, Francis founded the Arizona School for the Arts in 1995. ASA became one of the top charter schools in the state. Today, Francis is a deputy associate superintendent within the Arizona Department of Education. He is an active member of Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church, which he has served in a number of capacities, including as congregational president, treasurer, and music leader. In June, Ray Hanson ’70 retired and moved to Lancaster, Pennsylvania, one day later. He completed his career with Goldbelt Raven, where he provided scientific and technical assistance to the chemical forensics program at the Department of Homeland Security. 1972 In May, Rob Engelson ’72 received the Distinguished Service Award from Ashford University at its commencement ceremony in San Diego. The award acknowledged 21 years as a faculty member and five years as a member of the Faculty Senate. AUGGIE SNAPSHOTS ’01 ’05 ’76 26 AUGSBURG NOW ALUMNI CLASS NOTES 1973 Terry Lindstrom ’73 received a Distinguished Alumni Award at Homecoming. After graduating from Augsburg with degrees in chemistry and biology, Lindstrom received his doctorate in biochemistry with a pharmacology minor in 1977. He went on to complete postdoctoral research at Michigan State University from 1978 to 1979. During his career, Lindstrom led research teams that obtained patents for prescription medications Evista and Cymbalta. In addition to Lindstrom’s many scientific achievements, he and his wife, Janet Lindstrom, have provided 16 full Undergraduate Research and Graduate Opportunity summer scholarships for Augsburg students during the past five years. 1974 Thomas Koplitz ’74 has been elected to the Minnesota Baseball Hall of Fame and was inducted at a September ceremony held in St. Cloud, Minnesota. 1977 Augsburg honored Inez Bergquist ’77 with a Distinguished Alumni Award at Homecoming. As the current president of Waltman Associates, Bergquist has more than 35 years experience in fundraising and is an expert in the area of nonprofit management. She served on the Augsburg University Alumni Board for eight years and on the Augsburg Parent Council for four years. Bergquist authored several books on families of wealth including the “Book of Minnesota Family Trees.” She also is a Wells Foundation board member. 1978 Phyllis Bartel ’78 published “Scooter ‘n’ Oaks: A Cat Adoption Story” in October 2016. As Bartel’s premier work, this fictionalized tale teaches children about the pet adoption process with compassion and gentle humor and shares similar themes with human adoption. 1979 Dave Boots ’79, who was inducted into Augsburg’s Athletic Hall of Fame in 2004, was named to the University of South Dakota Vermillion’s Henry Heider Coyote Sports Hall of Fame in October after retiring in 2013 with the 14th most wins in Division II men’s basketball history. He led the Coyotes to 23 consecutive winning seasons from 1989-2011, 10 NCAA Division II tournaments, six NCC titles, and back-to-back Elite Eight appearances in 1993 and 1994. At the Division I level, Boots also won a Great West Championship in 2010. Boots began his coaching career at Anoka Ramsey Community College and spent six years coaching at Augsburg before arriving in Vermillion. Sally (Hough) Daniels Herron ’79 is the new parish and communications administrator for Valley of Peace Lutheran Church in Golden Valley, Minnesota. SUBMIT A CLASS NOTE Leah Abdella ’76 retired in 2016 from a 40-year teaching career in the field of special education. At Augsburg, Abdella earned a double major in music and music therapy as one of the first three music therapy majors. Abdella stays fulfilled in retirement through volunteer work and flute performance at assisted living residences, nursing homes, and churches. She also stays active in ballet classes and yoga. She is a former member of the Andahazy Ballet Company. ’76 Katie (Koch) Code ’01, director of alumni and constituent relations at Augsburg University, married Chris Code in April during an intimate ceremony at the Guthrie Theater—where the couple met while both on staff. The wedding was officiated by Code’s father, the Rev. Jack ’01 ’14 Former hockey and football player Paul Holmquist ’79 was inducted into the Augsburg Athletic Hall of Fame. Holmquist was a key member of Augsburg teams that dominated in the late 1970s, earning the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics national title in 1979 and qualifying for NAIA national tournament play all of Holmquist’s four seasons. The teams he competed with also won Minnesota Intercollegiate Athletic Conference titles in 1978 and 1979. He was named a team MVP in the 1978-79 season, the same time period in which he earned All-MIAC Honorable Mention honors. 1980 Paul Kilgore ’80 wrote a novel, “The Broken Key,” that is available through online and retail outlets. 1985 Brian Ammann ’85 has been running the Minnesota School of Basketball in Apple Valley and Golden Valley for 12 years. He is the former head basketball coach at Augsburg. 1987 Lee Ann (Burson) Hohenstein ’87 left a 20-year career in mortgage banking to follow her dream and become a staff writer for the Mille Lacs Messenger. She also opened Restoration Books and Gifts in Crosby, Minnesota. Tell us about the news in your life—your new job, move, marriage, and milestones. Visit augsburg.edu/now to submit your announcements. Koch, and was witnessed by sibling Jason Koch ’93 and sister-in-law Heather Johnston ’92. Allison (Cornell) Broughton ’05 and Matt Broughton ’06 welcomed new baby Nicholas James in June. Nicholas joins big brother Calvin, age 4. ’05 This August, Samantha Cantrall ’14 and Austin Smith ’14 were married in Ellsworth, Wisconsin, by Augsburg Professor of Computer Science Larry Crockett. The couple met in Augsburg’s Urness Hall in 2010, and both graduated from the Honors Program in 2014. They have taken Samantha’s mother’s last name as their wedded name and will be known as Samantha and Austin Wolf. ’14 FALL - WINTER 2017 27 ALUMNI CLASS NOTES 1991 Kristin Dragseth Wiersma ’91 had an outstanding volleyball career at Augsburg, an accomplishment that earned her induction into the Athletic Hall of Fame. Wiersma played three seasons of volleyball, earning All-MIAC and Academic All-MIAC honors in 1990, and All-MIAC Honorable Mention honors in 1989. She remains in the top 10 players in school history in three career statistical categories: kills per-set, attack percentage, and digs per-set. A team co-captain in 1990, Wiersma also served as an assistant coach at Augsburg in 1991. 1992 Athletic Hall of Fame inductee Juli Gustafson ’92 played two years of softball at Augsburg earning All-MIAC honors as a shortstop in both 1991 and 1992, while also earning National Fastpitch Coaching Association All-West Region honors in 1991. Her .395 career batting average is the third-best in school history. She also ranks third in career slugging percentage and sixth in career doubles. Gustafson was a member of Auggie teams that went 47-22 in her two seasons. Though he only competed in one season of wrestling at Augsburg, Bret Sharp ’92 made the most of it. He went 43-2-1 with 15 pins and 95 takedowns, won the MIAC title at heavyweight, and finished third at the NCAA Division III national tournament in the 1991-92 season, where he helped to clinch a second-place national team finish for the Auggies. Sharp was inducted into the Augsburg Athletic Hall of Fame. He competed his first three seasons at Drake University in Iowa. 1993 Dr. Jason Koch ’93 was appointed president of Southdale Pediatrics, where he has worked for the past 16 years. Wrestling star Gary Thompson ’93 was inducted into the Augsburg Athletic Hall of Fame. A four-year competitor in wrestling, Thompson completed his Auggie career with a 91-40-1 record, finishing fourth at the 1993 NCAA Division III national championships and earning All-American honors. He was a MIAC champion, a National Wrestling Coaches Association Scholar AllAmerican, and a two-time Academic All-MIAC honors student-athlete. Thompson was a member of Augsburg squads that won the NCAA national championship in 1993 and finished second and third in other years. 1994 Chris Terrell ’94 was promoted to vice president of finance for Medtronic’s Cardiac and Vascular Group Global Operations. Terrell joined Medtronic in 2003 and most recently served as a senior director of operations in finance, where he drove finance strategies for nine manufacturing locations. 1995 Dual sport athlete Marty Alger ’95 was inducted into the Augsburg Athletic Hall of Fame. In football, Alger set an Augsburg program record for career rushing yardage, which stood until 2014. In 1992, he became the first Auggie ever to rush for 1,000-plus yards in a season. He earned All-MIAC honors in football in both 1992 and 1993. As an Auggie wrestler, he qualified for the 1993 NCAA Division III national tournament after winning the MIAC title at 190 pounds. 1997 Augsburg Athletic Hall of Fame inductee Eric Rolland ’97 was a leader on some of the most successful men’s golf teams in school history. He led squads that won the MIAC championship in 1995 and recorded second-place finishes in 1994 and 1996, while competing in three straight NCAA Division III national tournaments. Rolland AUGGIE SNAPSHOTS Denielle (Johnson) Stepka ’11 and Timothy Stepka were married July 15 in Prior Lake, Minnesota. Their ceremony was officiated by Josh Corrigan ’11, and their wedding party included Augsburg alumni Katie (Christensen) Beadell ’11, Korri (Yule) Corrigan ’11, Tim Lund ’12, Amy Jo Opsal ’12, and Tyler Phillips ’12. ’11 28 AUGSBURG NOW In July, Enrico Barrozo ’14 and Mara (Breczinski) Barrozo ’14 were married at Augsburg University’s Hoversten Chapel. The ceremony was officiated by the Rev. Mike Matson ’06. The newlyweds live in Gainesville, Florida, where Enrico is pursuing a Ph.D. in genetics and genomics at the University of Florida, and Mara teaches middle school science. ’14 Rebecca (Welle) Winters ’05 and Paul Winters ’07 welcomed a daughter, Maisy Beverly, in May. She joins siblings Max, who is six years old, and Millie, who is three years old. ’05 Matt Tonsager ’09, co-owner of Gullton Wood, and Melissa (Moberg) Tonsager ’10 welcomed a daughter, Adalind Kay Tonsager, in April. ’09 earned All-America honors in 1995, AllDistrict honors in 1997, and All-MIAC honors in 1995 and 1996. Since 2014, he has served as Augsburg’s men’s and women’s golf head coach. 1999 Elizabeth (Petrik) Brown ’99 had an outstanding goaltending career on the Augsburg women’s soccer team, an accomplishment that earned her induction into the Athletic Hall of Fame. Brown started all but one game of her collegiate career, finishing with 34 career victories, including a then-school-record 13 in 1995. She stands second in school history in career shutouts, fourth in career wins, and eighth in career win-loss percentage. Her 1.69 career goals-against-average is 10th-best in school history. Cheri Johnson ’99 wrote two book series released this fall for young readers. “Origins: Urban Legends” and “Origins: Whodunnit” are high-interest, low-readinglevel books that target upper-elementary and middle-school students. The books will be distributed by Lerner. Johnson also is working on a performance project in Minneapolis called “Crocus Hill Ghost Story” with the music ensemble Zeitgeist; her sister, Julie Johnson ’98; and actor, director, and filmmaker D.J. Mendel. “Crocus Hill Ghost Story” tells a tale set in an evil house in St. Paul. ’11 ’14 ’05 ’09 ’00 Devoney Looser ’89 published a new ’89 book, “The Making of Jane Austen,” which was named in Publishers Weekly’s list of Best Summer Books of 2017 (nonfiction). This May, Lewis Nelson ’00 graduated from the University of Virginia’s Darden School of Business with a Master of Business Administration degree. Nelson left a 15-year military and government career and is seeking the next challenge. Nelson resides in Charlottesville, Virginia, with his three children. ’00 ’89 29 ALUMNI CLASS NOTES 2000 The Rev. Sara (Quigley) Brown ’00 has accepted a term-call as the associate interim pastor at Saving Grace Lutheran, Lutheran Congregations in Missions for Christ, in Eau Claire, Wisconsin. She will serve and work alongside its faithful congregation and pastor, the Rev. David Irgens, during a time of great transition and growth. Brown will serve Saving Grace Lutheran for one year until the congregation places a call for a permanent associate pastor. 2001 James Shropshire ’01, former assistant director of public safety at Augsburg, is the new director of campus safety at Grinnell College. At Augsburg, Shropshire also served as a Title IX adjudicator and investigator. Besides revising diversity training, Shropshire’s agenda for campus safety at Grinnell will include updating the department’s software, computers, and other equipment. 2002 Augsburg Athletic Hall of Fame inductee Chrissy (Baune) Bloemendal ’02 was a 16-time AllMIAC selection in cross country (three times) and track and field (13 times). The team’s No. 1 runner her final three seasons in cross country, Bloemendal finished sixth in the MIAC championships in 2001 and 13th in 2000. In track and field, she won the MIAC title and qualified for the NCAA Division III outdoor national championships in the 3,000-meter steeplechase in 2002, finishing ninth nationally. AUGGIE SNAPSHOTS 30 AUGSBURG NOW ’15 Two years ago Heather Cmiel ’02 left 13 years of communications agency life behind to go corporate. She now serves as global marketing communications strategist within 3M Healthcare. Cmiel spends her free time as president of Minnesota Public Relations Society of America. She also leads a contemporary worship band. 2003 Reginaldo Haslett-Marroquin ’03 is the founder and director of the Rural Enterprise Center, a program of Main Street Project, a nonprofit organization focused on rural development. Haslett-Marroquin also serves on the boards of the Northfield Area Foundation, the Northfield Area United Way, and Fifth Bridge, a nonprofit organization promoting volunteerism. 2005 Ryan Bosshart ’05 is a vice president of services at phData, a global leader in big data consulting and managed services. Most recently, Bosshart was a principal sales engineer at Cloudera. 2006 Michelle Dirtzu ’06 is a new marketing manager at Pacific Trellis Fruit/Dulcinea Farms based in Los Angeles, California. Dirtzu has 10 years of experience in the grocery-retail-produce business. Previously, she was a marketing director for North Shore Living Herbs, in marketing with Flagstone Foods, and in brand management with Supervalu. Dirtzu earned a Master of Business Administration degree from Opus School of Business at the University of St. Thomas in 2014. Brenda Valentine ’06 welcomed her son, Jackson James Valentine Rice, in April. 2007 A managing partner of business planning at the American Public Media Group, Danielle Stellner ’07 received a First Decade Award at Homecoming. After graduating from Augsburg, Stellner went on to earn a Master of Business Administration degree from the Carlson School of Management at the University of Minnesota in 2016. She was recruited for the board of Isuroon and Secretary, and she is the active co-chair of the AWE Philanthropy Council at Augsburg. In addition, Stellner serves the Friendship Academy of the Arts as a board member and expansion committee member. 2008 Tony Landecker ’08 serves as a portfolio manager in the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Minneapolis-St. Paul field office and is responsible for assisting with the management of local housing stock. Landecker was named the Minnesota Civil Servant of the Year by HUD’s Federal Executive Board for helping others find the comfort of a home in the aftermath of a disaster. In 2016, he left his home and family to spend time helping Baton Rouge flood victims, leading a team that found permanent housing for 130 families initially placed in temporary shelters. Rachel Shaheen ’15 and Christopher Kopp ’15 were married in July. The bride and groom were joined by fellow Augsburg alumni [L to R]: Becky Shaheen ’11, Patrick DuSchane ’13, Laura Schmidt ’11, Jakob Anderson ’12, Erika Osterbur ’11, Aren Olson ’11, Lily Moloney ’15, Mary Stickelmeyer ’74, Emily Knudson ’15, Kate Gray ’15, Tyler Dorn ’15, and Alisha Esselstein ’15. ’15 ALUMNI CLASS NOTES Curtiss Schreiber ’08 is now an associate at the law firm Donohue Brown Mathewson & Smyth LLC in Chicago. 2011 Jennifer Weber ’11 received a Spirit of Augsburg Award at Homecoming for her dedication to Minneapolis’ CedarRiverside community and in recognition for the projects she has initiated in the Twin Cities area. Before graduating from Augsburg with a triple major in emotional/ behavioral disabilities, learning disabilities, and American Indian studies, Weber created an American Indian resource library for the Anoka-Hennepin Indian Education Program. Weber has been involved in many community projects and is a crisis prevention and interventions trainer at the Charter School Special Ed Network. She is also a certified school coach, teacher, and member of the Cedar Riverside Community School Board. 2012 Katie Radford ’12, ’18 MBA started a new position at Fairview Health Services as a training consultant. She helps facilitate individual and team development sessions for professional growth. 2014 Maren Daniels ’14 teaches elementary visual art at Hiawatha Academy Morris Park in Minneapolis. 2015 Awale Osman ’15 serves as a community innovation associate at the Bush Foundation. He has experienced much change: coming to the U.S. from war-torn Somalia and Kenyan refugee camps to learning English as a third language and graduating with high academic honors. His work as a change agent has included expanding after-school opportunities for Somali youth; impressing upon Congress the value of federal TRIO programming; and activating safe spaces for women, people of color, and queer students. 2016 Victoria Linstrom ’16, Andrew Kleidon-Linstom ’16, Bridgette Henry ’16, and student Mitch Ross ’18 formed the Open Door Theater where Linstrom serves as the executive director, Kleidon-Linstom is the artistic director, Henry is the company manager/dramaturg in residence, and Ross is the marketing director. Muna Mohamed ’16 received a scholarship at the University of Minnesota to pursue a Master of Science degree in behavioral aspects of physical activity. At the university, Mohamed conducts research on East African mother-daughter physical activity. 2017 Minnesota Gov. Mark Dayton appointed Eron Godi ’17 to the Young Women’s Cabinet, part of the Young Women’s Initiative of Minnesota that aims to improve opportunity for women ages 12 to 24 by bringing together nonprofits, businesses, government, philanthropic organizations, and young women to create plans for building equity. Godi was one of 25 women selected statewide for a cabinet position. Emily Gregg ’17, former Augsburg women’s soccer defender, was named one of 174 nationwide recipients of a $7,500 NCAA Postgraduate Scholarship honoring her achievements as both a scholar and an athlete. A biology major with a 3.72 GPA, Gregg is the first Auggie to receive an NCAA Postgraduate Scholarship since 2014. Gregg will attend graduate school at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. She hopes to someday work as a wildlife/large animal veterinarian. Anna Renner ’17 has been accepted to the Clarkson University Master of Physician Assistant Studies program in Potsdam, New York. Dua Saleh ’17 had one of her songs played on “The Current” radio station. She performs music and poetry at Twin Cities venues. Riley Siddorn ’17 was among nearly 450 summer interns at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center. Interns seek out new ways to explore their career fields and engage NASA’s international scientific community in Goddard projects. Siddorn, who majored in physics, held an internship in ionospheric physics. The internships covered a wide spectrum in science-related areas, from planetary science to sounding rockets to Earth science. GRADUATE PROGRAMS Doris Rubenstein ’93 MAL won the silver Independent Book Publishers Association Benjamin Franklin Award for her book, “The Journey of a Dollar,” at the association’s 29th annual award ceremony in Portland, Oregon. Kathleen Clark ’10 MAN, ’14 DNP; Joyce Miller ’02, ’04 MAN, ’11 DNP; Katherine Baumgartner ’04 MAN, ’11 DNP; and Cheryl Leuning, former Nursing Department chair, co-authored an article, “The Citizen Nurse: An Educational Innovation for Change,” which was published in the Journal of Nursing Education. Jamie Heitzinger ’11 MPA earned a Certificate of Added Qualifications by completing specialty training from the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants. She works at Queens Medical Center in Honolulu. Ryan Stopera ’11 MSW/MBA is a social worker and social entrepreneur. He serves as a program analyst for the Graves Foundation and teaches in Augsburg’s Social Work Department. Stopera enjoys building community through art, cycling, and rock climbing in his spare time. Allison DeGroot ’15 MAL is the new head women’s soccer coach at the University of Wisconsin-Superior. The women’s soccer program competes at the highest level in the Upper Midwest Athletic Conference, and DeGroot is looking forward to working with players to help the program reach its potential. DeGroot was an assistant coach at Augsburg from 2012 until 2016. Angela Mejdrich ’15 MAE is the new director of administration at Spirit of the Lake Community School in Duluth, Minnesota. She provides lead support and oversight of several administrative and business matters. Mejdrich has more than 20 years of teaching and administration experience, most recently as vice principal of St. Michael’s Lakeside School. Thomas Hirsch ’16 MPA is a new physician assistant at the Essentia Health–Hermantown Clinic in Minnesota. FALL - WINTER 2017 31 PHOTO BY CAROLINE YANG IN MEMORIAM Alfred W. Walck ’40, Urbandale, Iowa, age 96, on April 27. Addell L. (Halverson) Dahlen ’43, Minneapolis, age 96, on June 2. Carl G. Gilbertson ’43, Battle Lake, Minnesota, age 96, on April 14. Arlene L. (Dunham) Sandberg ’43, Madelia, Minnesota, age 95, on May 12. Muriel R. (Ruud) Frosch ’45, Winona, Minnesota, age 94, on July 26. Lorene M. (McGinnis) Hansen ’49, Clear Lake, Iowa, age 92, on July 7. Lorraine (Telander) Hendershot ’49, Mora, Minnesota, age 89, on March 29. Phyllis (Erickson) Quanbeck ’49, Salem, Oregon, age 89, on June 28. Donald P. Sateren ’49, Long Beach, California, age 96, on June 18. Russell G. Solheim ’49, Racine, Wisconsin, age 96, on July 8. Marilyn L. (Larson) Forslund ’50, Moline, Illinois, age 94, on May 26. Roger C. Mackey ’57, Saint Paul, Minnesota, age 83, on July 20. David C. Siedlar ’71, Huaian City, Jiangsu, China, age 68, on March 19. Norman O. Landvik ’50, Port Angeles, Washington, age 89, on April 6. Warren L. Anderson ’59, Grand Marais, Minnesota, age 84, on March 16. Bradley W. Shoff ’77, Akeley, Minnesota, age 62, on June 18. Arnold R. Aasen ’51, Fridley, Minnesota, age 88, on July 23. Carrol A. Bakken ’59, Rushford, Minnesota, age 82, on March 18. John A. Faeth ’89, Stillwater, Minnesota, age 51, on April 3. Elden O. Landvik ’51, Duluth, Minnesota, age 92, on July 3. James D. Slarks ’51, Saint Peter, Minnesota, age 92, on June 27. LeVon M. (Paulson) Dinter ’52, Edina, Minnesota, age 86, on March 18. Mildred C. Hetager ’52, Minneapolis, age 103, on June 30. Donald W. Siegel ’53, Minneapolis, age 89, on April 6. Peter L. Hauser ’62, Lakeville, Minnesota, age 76, on July 10. Michael L. Kropp ’95, Albert Lea, Minnesota, age 49, on April 2. Gerald W. Mortenson ’62, Stone Lake, Wisconsin, age 79, on March 31. Charity Thunder ’99, Black River Falls, Wisconsin, age 71, on July 1. Paul S. Monson ’63, Coon Rapids, Minnesota, age 76, on July 12. Jacob R. Collins ’03, Austin, Minnesota, age 36, on August 25. Gary W. Paulson ’63, Willmar, Minnesota, age 75, on June 10. Christopher G. Frame ’09, Minneapolis, age 33, on March 20. Richard E. Kuehne ’64, Walker, Minnesota, age 76, on August 7. Elnora C. (Hanson) Beireis ’54, Parkers Prairie, Minnesota, age 84, on July 27. Ronald A. Hanson ’65, Grand Rapids, Minnesota, age 74, on July 17. Mary Ann E. (Fox) Domholdt ’56, Mentor, Ohio, age 83, on April 5. Terence W. Rindal ’66, Crystal Lake, Illinois, age 82, on August 12. Mark D. Lukitsch ’20, Cottage Grove, Minnesota, age 19, on August 5. The “In memoriam” listings in this publication include notifications received before September 15. 32 AUGSBURG NOW JOIN US FOR THE GRAND OPENING OF THE NORMAN AND EVANGELINE HAGFORS CENTER FOR SCIENCE, BUSINESS, AND RELIGION SATURDAY, JANUARY 27, 2018 4–5 p.m. | Alumni and Community Open House Hagfors Center, Augsburg University 700 21st Avenue South Minneapolis, Minnesota 55454 RSVP by January 8 at augsburg.edu/alumni/events. Send questions to Hannah Walsh ’14, advancement assistant, at walsh@augsburg.edu or call 612-330-1098. FALL - WINTER 2017 33 2211 Riverside Avenue Minneapolis, MN 55454 Thousands of Auggies. One Augsburg. Augsburg’s 2017 Homecoming celebration was held October 12–14, a festive weekend when alumni, students, and community members took part in more than 35 events, including reunions for the classes of 1967, 1977, 1992, and 2007. In all, more than 600 alumni from different generations visited campus to show their Auggie pride and mark the first Homecoming as Augsburg University. Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Twin Cities, MN Permit No. 2031
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Title: Augsburg Now Spring-Summer 2017: Augsburg Now Spring-Summer 2017
Collection: Alumni Magazine Collection
Search Result: AUGSBURG NOW AUGSBURG UNIVERSITY SPRING–SUMMER 2017 | VOL. 79, NO. 2 COMING SEPTEMBER 2017 PHOTO BY STEPHEN GEFFRE Vice President of Marketing and Communication Rebecca John ’13 MBA rjohn@augsburg.edu NOTES FROM PRESIDENT PRIBBENOW On the power of both/and I am writing these notes on c...
Show more AUGSBURG NOW AUGSBURG UNIVERSITY SPRING–SUMMER 2017 | VOL. 79, NO. 2 COMING SEPTEMBER 2017 PHOTO BY STEPHEN GEFFRE Vice President of Marketing and Communication Rebecca John ’13 MBA rjohn@augsburg.edu NOTES FROM PRESIDENT PRIBBENOW On the power of both/and I am writing these notes on commencement weekend when we have just sent the final graduates of Augsburg College into the world, full of promise and aspiration—as has been the case for almost 150 years. As you will read in this issue of Augsburg Now, the change of our name to Augsburg University will become official in September, and we will welcome the incoming class on Labor Day weekend. We are busy preparing for this exciting new era for Augsburg! For some, the name change may reflect a break with Augsburg’s past. For others, perhaps this is a welcome acceptance of the need to embrace the future. For the Augsburg community, however, the change is a remarkable opportunity to re-present Augsburg to the world—to tell a story that is about an abiding mission and identity shaped by faith, and academic and civic values, and at the same time to point to innovative and urgently needed responses to our dynamic environment. In other words, this change is about the pivot from “either/or” to “both/and.” This is about embracing the best of past, present, and future. This is about Augsburg University. The almost 1,000 Auggies who commenced into the world this spring reflect in their achievements and aspirations the foundation for embracing this change. Across undergraduate and graduate programs, the Class of 2017 achieved academic excellence of the highest order, excellence that defines a university: national and international honors for scholarship and service; exemplary undergraduate research that equips students for graduate work and professional opportunities; innovative community building that strengthens democratic engagement; and a commitment to equity in education that promises to change the world. At the same time, our newest graduates reflect the diversity that we expect in a university—diversity of ethnicity, thinking, life experience, identity, and ability—diversity not for its own sake but for the promise of a more robust, healthy, and just world. As I watched our diverse graduates cross the stage, I could not help but be filled with hope in our future leaders who already have learned to navigate difference in ways that unite rather than divide. In a final way, these newest Augsburg graduates offer a perhaps countercultural lesson about what makes for a great university. Though some imagine a university as big and bureaucratic and faceless, Augsburg has a vision to be a new kind of student-centered, urban university—small to our students and big for the world. The sense of community was palpable in our commencement ceremonies as graduates cheered each other and celebrated the relationships they have forged at Augsburg, lifelong relationships that engendered achievement and success. And propelled by those relationships, our graduates will indeed be “big for the world,” as they live Augsburg’s mission as “informed citizens, thoughtful stewards, critical thinkers, and responsible leaders.” Here’s to the power of “both/and” and the promise of Augsburg University! Director of News and Media Services Stephanie Weiss weisss@augsburg.edu Director of Marketing Communication Stephen Jendraszak jendra@augsburg.edu Communication Copywriter and Editorial Coordinator Laura Swanson Lindahl ’15 MBA swansonl@augsburg.edu Senior Creative Associate, Design Denielle Johnson ’11 johnsod@augsburg.edu Production Manager Mark Chamberlain chamberm@augsburg.edu Marketing Copywriter Jessica Mueller muellerj@augsburg.edu Contributing Writers Kate H. Elliott Jen Lowman Day augsburg.edu Augsburg Now is published by Augsburg College 2211 Riverside Ave. Minneapolis, MN 55454 Opinions expressed in Augsburg Now do not necessarily reflect official College policy. ISSN 1058-1545 Faithfully yours, Send address corrections to: alumniupdate@augsburg.edu. Send comments to: now@augsburg.edu PAUL C. PRIBBENOW, PRESIDENT AUGSBURG NOW Spring–Summer 2017 02 Around the quad 08 Preserving Norway’s treasures 12 Augsburg University name change 18 Winning the long game 24 Auggies connect 28 Class notes 33 In memoriam PHOTO BY COURTNEY PERRY On the cover Augsburg College will become Augsburg University effective September 1. Learn more about this historic transition on page 12. An Auggie passes by the first art installation in the Norman and Evangeline Hagfors Center for Science, Business, and Religion. This new academic building, which will open in January 2018, celebrates Augsburg’s commitment to learning at the intersection of disciplines. Glass fritting on the lobby curtainwall depicts the pattern of Martin Luther’s handwritten score of “A Mighty Fortress is Our God” overlaid with the cell structure of elm wood. “Knowing that light will pour through the tall glass of the Hagfors Center, and that people will pass through the reflected shape of the notes of this stirring hymn, ties the whole idea of the building together for me. Science, business, and religion, drawn together in space, time, and rhythm of the ages,” said Augsburg President Paul C. Pribbenow, who, with his wife, Abigail Crampton Pribbenow, sponsored the artwork. AROUND THE QUAD HONORING PHOTO BY COURTNEY PERRY Retiring Faculty RALPH BUTKOWSKI MAGDA PALECZNY-ZAPP Assistant Professor, Department of Biology—with the College since 2001 Associate Professor, Department of Business Administration—with the College since 1986 CASS DALGLISH NOEL PETIT Professor, Department of English— with the College since 1986 Professor, Department of Computer Science—with the College since 1984 PETER HENDRICKSON ’76 Associate Professor, Department of Music—with the College since 1994 BOYD KOEHLER Associate Professor, Library—with the College since 1967 SANDRA OLMSTED ’69 Associate Professor, Department of Chemistry—with the College since 1978 DEBORAH REDMOND Assistant Professor, Department of Communication Studies—with the College since 1981 STUART STOLLER Professor, Department of Business Administration—with the College since 1986 TARA SWEENEY Associate Professor, Department of Art—with the College since 1990 Auggies advocate at STATE CAPITOL The Augsburg community celebrated the Class of 2017 on Saturday, April 29. In a morning ceremony, 503 traditional undergraduate students were conferred their degrees. In the afternoon, the school recognized 469 adult undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral students—50 of whom studied at Augsburg’s Rochester site. [Pictured]: Fatimah Kinaphone ’15, ’17 MBA receives her master’s degree hood. 2 AUGSBURG NOW PHOTO BY STEPHEN GEFFRE COMMENCEMENT Augsburg College students recently visited the Minnesota State Capitol to participate in advocacy events hosted by the Minnesota Private College Council. First, in February, two of Augsburg’s TRIO McNair Scholars took part in a Private College Scholars at the Capitol event that promoted the role undergraduate research plays in students’ educational and professional development. Then, in April, Auggies met with Minnesota representatives and senators for Day at the Capitol. These students advocated for several programs, including Minnesota State Grants, that help undergraduates afford higher education. [L to R]: Professor of Sociology Diane Pike advised McNair Scholar Devin Wiggs ’17, who was invited to present his undergraduate research project at Scholars at the Capitol. AROUND THE QUAD TICKETS ON SALE: NOBEL PEACE PRIZE FORUM Visit nobelpeaceprizeforum.org to find ticket, presenter, and schedule information. PHOTO BY RICKY TAYLOR ’17 COURTESY PHOTO September 15-16 Each year, the Nobel Peace Prize Forum offers opportunities to learn from the world’s most celebrated, innovative, and dedicated peacemakers. Hosted and presented by Augsburg, the Forum invites attendees to turn abstract ideas into the skills our world needs for fostering better relationships and for building peace. In September, international guests from leading organizations will explore the theme “Dialogue in Divided Societies” and honor the work of the Tunisian National Dialogue Quartet, the 2015 Nobel Peace Prize laureate, for its decisive contribution to building a pluralistic democracy in Tunisia after the Jasmine Revolution of 2011. Electronics lab is electrifying!! Building the circuits of tomorrow, today. #MaroonMilestone @AugsburgCollege FUEL FINISH THERE IS, PERHAPS, NO GREATER CURE FOR STRESS than taking a moment to acknowledge the good. As Augsburg students soldiered through the last week of classes this spring—turning in final papers and finishing projects—they also made time to reflect on their achievements in 2016-17. Students posted, tweeted, and shared #MaroonMilestones on social media, and soon a powerful collective story came together. Whether it was winning athletic championships, landing job interviews, or beating cancer, Auggies finished strong. FOR THE CELEBRATING STUDENT SUCCESS FUEL E FOR TH FINISH For those who posted #MaroonMilestones, Augsburg partnered with its food service provider, A’viands, to provide handdelivered treats and cheerful notes that offered additional fuel for the end of the term, though physics students kept their beverages safely stationed outside the lab (pictured above)! Read about the scope of prestigious academic achievements, awards, and honors earned by Auggies during the 2016-17 year at augsburg.edu/now. SPRING–SUMMER 2017 3 PHOTO BY RICKY TAYLOR ’17 AROUND THE QUAD After a morning practice, goaltender Jordyn Kaufer ’17 and members of the Augsburg men’s hockey team presented Minasie Theophilos with a check for $5,000. In comments aired on KARE 11 news, Kaufer told Theophilos the sum was, “A token to give you thanks for your selflessness, your service, your care to the rink and the guys.” Honoring Luther’s legacy To mark the 500th anniversary of the Reformation, Augsburg is hosting a series of events this fall. Visit augsburg.edu/ccv/events for dates and details. 4 AUGSBURG NOW A SEASON OF REFORMATION CELEBRATIONS! In September, Augsburg will welcome the fourth presiding bishop of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, the Rev. Elizabeth Eaton, as an honored speaker for the Bernhard M. Christensen Symposium. To mark Augsburg College Heritage Day in October, Associate Professor of Religion Mary Lowe will lead a discussion on the revolutionary life of Martin Luther. In November, award-winning musical group The Rose Ensemble will present “Welcome the People: The Musical Legacy of the Reformation.” To kick off the holiday season in December, Augsburg will host Advent Vespers with the theme “Welcome, Noble Guest,” inspired by Martin Luther’s hymn “From Heaven Above.” AROUND THE QUAD MINASIE THEOPHILOS has cared for Augsburg’s athletic facilities—most notably the ice arena— during his more than 25 years of service on the College’s custodial staff. Theophilos and the men’s hockey team developed a life-changing relationship that was shared by media outlets across the United States and around the globe. When members of the team learned that Theophilos’ mother had died in Ethiopia—a home Theophilos hasn’t seen for nearly 35 years—and that Theophilos missed her funeral because he didn’t have the money to visit, the team created a fundraiser. In less than 48 hours, the players and Auggies worldwide raised thousands of dollars for Theophilos to use to visit his family. Today, Theophilos and his wife are planning a trip to see his father and their families, thanks to a special friendship with the Augsburg athletes he has supported for decades. PHOTO BY RICKY TAYLOR ’17 FRIENDSHIP ON ICE … AND OFF right,’ ou raised ’em ‘y of y or g te ca “In the y team.” Augsburg hocke e th of s d ki e we give you th —Bob Collins, Minnesota Public Radio News Cut COURTESY PHOTO Who’s on first? Auggies are! This spring, the Augsburg baseball team kicked off its season at U.S. Bank Stadium, competing in four nonconference doubleheaders. The new Minnesota Vikings venue is only a stone’s throw (or a really strong pitch) from Augsburg’s campus. SPRING–SUMMER 2017 5 PHOTO BY STEPHEN GEFFRE ON THE SPOT IT’S SIMPLE MATH: Fewer people are entering the teaching profession, more are leaving it, and many educators lack the qualifications required to teach Minnesota’s increasingly diverse student body. These factors have prompted teacher preparation programs—including those at Augsburg—to adapt in support of more inclusive, flexible learning environments that accommodate a spectrum of needs and abilities. As the director of education programs at Augsburg’s Rochester location, Kaycee Rogers is working alongside colleagues and legislators to better support and retain teachers and to inspire a more diverse workforce. She is driven to ensure the next generation of Minnesotans experience a meaningful education through hands-on, relevant learning. Q: How does educating, training, and employing K-12 teachers with specialty backgrounds improve our schools? A: The demographics of our student population have changed given the influx of new populations into our welcoming state and education’s shift to incorporate students with special needs into the general classroom. Because of this, teachers with specialty licenses are in demand, and these positions are often tough to fill. Augsburg is leading the charge to offer broader licensures, which prepare teachers to succeed in today’s classrooms and qualify them for a wide range of teaching positions. Exposure to more teaching strategies and more specializations helps teacher 6 AUGSBURG NOW candidates adapt and innovate so they can offer students multiple access points for understanding. Q: A: What’s an example of an innovative teaching strategy? Students learn best when they’re engaged in experiences that matter to them. We’ve been incorporating real-world, student-led experiences into the classroom, and the results are impressive. Augsburg teacher candidates, for instance, are helping fourth- and fifth-graders write grants, speak to community groups, navigate teamwork, and participate in democracy. It’s been amazing to watch our teachers transition to more of a coaching role, while students PHOTO BY BRENDAN BUSH Education expert Kaycee Rogers describes how an inclusive, agile K-12 model can help Minnesota classrooms make the grade take the lead to apply classroom learning to issues and situations of meaning to them. Q: A: How do teachers recognize students’ home cultures and diverse experiences? Although “English as a Second Language” is a widely used term, we say, “English learners,” because it’s more accurate given that some students learn English as a third or fourth language. We also celebrate home culture and language rather than asking students to check their heritage at the door. In special education, we try to be more inclusive. It used to be that educators relied on what was called a medical model of diagnosis and treatment. Today, AROUND THE QUAD Outstanding EDUCATORS Share your ideas for Each year, Augsburg recognizes individuals who have made exemplary contributions to creating an engaging academic learning environment. The 2017 recipients of the Distinguished Contributions to Teaching and Learning awards are: AUGSBURG’S 150TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION 1869-2019 Visit augsburg.edu/150 to submit your suggestions. Alumni, parents, friends, faculty, and staff are invited to celebrate Augsburg’s 150th anniversary in 2019. What aspect of your Augsburg experience would you like to highlight during the sesquicentennial year? Were you connected to a team, an organization, or a department that made a difference? Would you like to see a reunion for your favorite activity—whether it was campus ministry, KAUG radio, student government, or a music ensemble? Let us know how to best honor Augsburg’s past, present, and future. Teaching Full-time faculty Joyce Miller ’02, ’05 MAN, ’11 DNP, assistant professor and Nursing Department chair Part-time faculty Alyssa Hanson ’01, mathematics and statistics instructor Scholarship William Green, professor of history Service Q: A: David Crowe, associate professor of biology How do we inspire a workforce that is more reflective of diverse classrooms? It’s well documented that students retain more information and have a positive view of education when they relate to teachers. We want to reach out to people who look like our students and come from the same backgrounds, particularly those already working as teacher aides or in other supporting roles. Growing teachers from within each community’s diverse population will beget more teachers of color and inspire some to remain in their community to make a lasting difference. Stella Hofrenning, associate professor of economics Dixie Shafer, director of Undergraduate Research and Graduate Opportunity PHOTO BY BOB STACKE ’71 we recognize that our role isn’t as much about changing someone as it is about using an approach that welcomes learners of different styles, that encourages support networks to address, adapt to, and respond to each young person. We seek to accept, listen, and innovate as we help students gain as much as possible to prepare them for a fulfilling life. Both approaches fall under an umbrella of universal design that can be applied to all students, regardless of ability. If our goal is understanding, then we must create multiple access points for students. We urge teacher candidates to get to know students, their families, and the community to appreciate the backgrounds coming together in each classroom. [L to R]: Stella Hofrenning, Dixie Shafer, William Green, Joyce Miller, David Crowe, and Alyssa Hanson. SPRING–SUMMER 2017 7 PHOTO BY ANNAR BJØRGLI 8 AUGSBURG NOW Juliane Derry ’00 works on an artifact from Norway’s national collection. As an objects conservator, she studies and preserves historical materials. BY LAURA SWANSON LINDAHL ’15 MBA “As you can see, I’m not in my office,” says Juliane Derry ’00 answering a video call and gazing toward the cell phone resting in her outstretched palm. “It’s kind of a little crisis.” Behind her, a warehouse complex comes into focus. It looks tidy—for the most part—but there’s chaos emerging in what otherwise would be a meticulously organized space. Derry is standing in one of the storage facilities for Norway’s Nasjonalmuseet, the National Museum of Art, Architecture and Design, and she is responding to an immediate, all-hands-on-deck plea to mitigate an unnerving discovery in the archive: water. “Oxygen, light, and variations in humidity are the things that cause damage,” Derry said, hours later, offering a primer on the fundamental culprits in the degradation of historical materials. As a conservator for the national museum in Oslo, she plays a multifaceted role in the institution’s efforts to hold, preserve, exhibit, and promote public knowledge about Norway’s most extensive collections. Vestbanen – Downtown Oslo Future home of the Nasjonalmuseet Norway’s new national museum will open in 2020. Juliane Derry ’00 is working to prepare hundreds of objects for public display. Oslo, Norway SPRING–SUMMER 2017 9 PHOTO BY ANNAR BJØRGLI During her career, Derry has restored furniture, objects, frames, and gilded surfaces. 10 AUGSBURG NOW “There are so many different materials in our collection that we have textile, paintings, paper, and book conservators,” said Derry, who is an objects conservator specializing in furniture, frames, and gilded surfaces. She has studied restoration on three continents and has become an expert in both preserving national treasures and making new creations shine. Derry is someone who excels at finding connections between seemingly disparate areas. Her conservation work blends science with artistry, research with intuition, and the practical with the theoretical. Derry’s personal life has been filled with complementary relationships as well. She was born in Norway, and she lived there until age 15 when she, her sister, and her American mother moved from the tiny alpine town of Ål to the densely populated Twin Cities lying on the edge of Minnesota’s prairie. Later, as an Augsburg student, she focused on women’s studies, international relations, religion, and studio arts. “I took classes based on what interested me,” Derry said, shrugging her shoulders. “When you get out into the real world and meet new people you begin to realize that [some of them] followed a very narrow path. I’m not looking down on that in any way, but I appreciate the fact that I was able to experience so many different things.” As her former faculty advisor, History Professor and Director of General Education Jacqueline deVries acknowledges that Derry is the type of person who thrives in interdisciplinary programs like women’s studies. Now known as “gender, sexuality, and women’s studies,” the major includes courses in biology, English, history, political science, sociology, and other disciplines. And it seems Derry’s inclination toward diverse opportunities only increases with time. “Juliane’s path is fantastic. She totally wandered,” said deVries, who now counts Derry among her friends. “I think she’d laugh that I said that, but along the way she discovered a true passion.” Derry’s career in restoration and conservation began because misdirected mail literally came across her desk. Shortly after graduating from Augsburg, Derry worked as an assistant to buyers at Dayton’s, Minneapolis’ storied hometown department store chain. Even though she didn’t support staff in the furniture division, she received heaps of catalogs for that area. Eventually, a thoughtful colleague noticed her growing interest in woodworking and encouraged her to pursue her calling. After some networking and introspection, Derry signed up for a wood finishing program at a technical college—an experience that ultimately led to her launching a small business, obtaining an advanced degree, and developing industry contacts around the world. One of those connections is Don Williams, an author, educator, scholar, and furniture conservator who retired after serving the Smithsonian Institution for 29 years. Williams was a guest lecturer who instructed Derry during her Minnesotabased finishing program, and he became a mentor as she took her education and career to new levels. Williams has taught hundreds of students, and he’s noticed that those who succeed often have similar predispositions. “How many people do you know who are both scientists and artists?” he asked. “That’s what we are. If you are not consumed by creativity, this is going to be a miserable path for you. People need not only creativity but also curiosity.” For Derry, an eagerness to experiment and to learn has triggered some of her most defining life events. After working a handful of day jobs and operating an independent business in the U.S. for three years, Derry enrolled in an immersive, full-time restoration program near Florence, Italy. There she gained studio experience and new skillsets, including the ability to speak Italian through a crash course lasting a single month. After completing the restoration program, Derry moved with her wife, Jody Scholz ’97, to Norway. Derry was armed with a portfolio of recent work and ambition to relaunch her business in the Land of the Midnight Sun. “I ended up making a CD full of pictures of various restoration projects, and I made the rounds in town,” she said. “I looked up people in the yellow pages and then handed out my pictures. In the beginning I worked a little bit at a frame shop, and then I got a job in a gallery where I restored frames.” During the years since, Derry’s workload has grown to match her expertise, and sometimes her expertise has grown due to Derry prepares an Oslo city model from the 1930s for display in an architectural exhibit. PHOTO BY ANNAR BJØRGLI the requirements of her work. She earned a master’s degree at the University of Oslo’s Institute of Archeology, Conservation, and History by completing a project-based thesis that examined shellac, a sealant created using a resin secreted by insects. For this project, Derry conducted fieldwork in the rural Jharkhand region of India where villagers harvest stick lac—the key ingredient that becomes shellac and its by-products—and she analyzed the chemical characteristics of several samples at the Smithsonian’s Museum Conservation Institute where Williams served as her internship sponsor. “Investigative problem-solving” is one of the aspects Derry said she most enjoys about her field, and her liberal arts experience at Augsburg informs the way she approaches her assignments. She uses traditional techniques and materials in her conservation projects whenever possible, and her ability to think critically is paramount. While employed at a furniture restoration company, she was tasked with repairing beloved pieces used by the Oscarshall Summer Palace, the Office of the Prime Minister, and private clients. She also has served Fortidsminneforeningen, a nonprofit that preserves and protects monuments, including 40 of the stave churches located throughout Norway. “Ashes to ashes and dust to dust is not only a homily, it is an inexorable law of the universe,” said Williams, describing the vital role individuals like Derry play in preserving cultural heritage for future generations. “Everything is going back to dust. As conservators, it is our job—to the extent that is rational—to slow that process down and concurrently enjoy and extract the most utility from an artifact on its path.” Today Derry’s workdays primarily are devoted to making internationally important materials accessible to the general public. At the national museum, she has completed assignments that range from applying gold leaf on the frames of masterworks to cleaning a plaster-of-Paris city model measuring more than 100 square feet. And still, her current undertaking is the largest one yet. The Norwegian government is building a joint “all-arts” museum, which is slated to open in Oslo in 2020. Intended to be a dynamic arena for people to interact with the visual arts, the space requires new exhibits so curators and conservators are working hand-in-hand to select and prepare pieces for display. Derry is in the midst of locating, evaluating, cataloguing, and potentially repairing 400 pieces of furniture for the museum. It’s a process that requires passion and persistence—two words that also perfectly describe the manner in which Derry has shaped her career. She’s prepared to address new challenges if issues arise in a workshop, at a laboratory bench, or during the process of managing complex projects. Even in a soggy situation at a storage venue, Derry sees the annoyance of rewrapping objects impacted by a minor cooling system leak as an opportunity to formulate a plan for the future should staff ever need to address a true disaster. “She can pursue something with intelligence and diligence and still with a smile on her face,” Williams said. “That’s an unusual gift.” SPRING–SUMMER 2017 11 AUGSBURG UNIVERSITY: SMALL TO OUR STUDENTS AND BIG FOR THE WORLD BY REBECCA JOHN ’13 MBA O n September 1, “Augsburg College” officially will become “Augsburg University”—a change approved by both the Board of Regents and the Augsburg Corporation. For generations of Augsburg alumni and friends, it may seem like the place always has been called “Augsburg College.” That’s been the formal name of the school for the past 54 years. Over the course of the school’s history, nearly 24,000 people have completed degrees at Augsburg. With so many Auggie alumni accustomed to thinking of Augsburg as a college, why change the name? In short, the term “university” illustrates the breadth of Augsburg’s current reality and goals for the future. And, “while our name is changing,” said Augsburg President Paul C. Pribbenow, “the essence of who we are is not.” As the first seminary created by Norwegian Lutherans in America, the name Augsburg—chosen by the school’s founders in 1869 to honor the Augsburg Confession—always has defined the ethos of this institution and its mission to support those called to service in the world. Since its founding, Augsburg has been known by at least four different names. The name has shifted as the school has grown, but our commitment to an accessible, quality education has never wavered. Likewise, our dedication to the Lutheran principles of hospitality, service to the neighbor, and social justice is as steadfast today as ever. 12 AUGSBURG NOW In announcing the name change, Pribbenow affirmed that becoming Augsburg University “does not alter our dedication to integrating the liberal arts and professional studies or our commitment to being small to our students and big for the world.” Rather than moving Augsburg away from its roots, the name change helps Augsburg remain both faithful to its heritage and relevant to the educational needs of students in the 21st century. Ever evolving, always Augsburg: Growth in graduate programs From its early years, Augsburg stressed that a good education is practical and focused on educating ministerial candidates and theological students as well as farmers, workers, and businesspeople. So, it’s no surprise that Augsburg today offers a number of professional master’s and doctoral degrees — a mix of programs that makes Augsburg already more like a university than a college. While there is no fixed definition outlining the distinction between a “college” and a “university,” offering post-baccalaureate degrees commonly is associated with institutions named as universities. Augsburg’s first advanced degree program, the Master of Arts in Leadership, launched 30 years ago. Since then, 3,700 people have earned master’s or doctoral degrees from Augsburg. This past fall, Augsburg’s graduate enrollment reached a record high — representing 28 percent of total enrollment — and continued growth in Augsburg graduate programs is anticipated in the coming years. An international perspective Today, Auggies live and work all over the world. In many countries and cultures, the word “college” is associated with a high school-level education. Alumni who work in international settings have noted that they already refer to their alma mater as “Augsburg University” in order to avoid confusion. For the same reason, the name change also will help Augsburg be more attractive as a destination for international students, which represents a potential growth area for Augsburg. A view from the outside in With nearly 150 years of history, it’s no surprise that Augsburg is well known in the region—even among people who haven’t (or haven’t yet) studied here. What impact would a name change have on their perceptions of Augsburg? We asked the following groups to share their thoughts: • high school students, • parents of high school students, • high school counselors, • people considering getting an advanced degree, and • people who didn’t finish an undergraduate degree right after high school and are thinking about going back to school to earn a bachelor’s. These conversations generated several important insights, but the core takeaway is that Augsburg’s reality, reputation, and promise are aligned with the name change. Our reality and reputation. Conversations with members of the general community demonstrated that people associate the word “university” with a number of attributes that clearly apply to Augsburg. Specifically, people view universities as having high academic standards, a commitment to research, strong international programs, and diverse student populations. Augsburg has robust programs for scholarly research and global study, and is recognized nationally for its leadership in inclusion and equity. In many ways, Augsburg already embodies much of what people expect of a university. The promise of a student-centered university. We also learned from these conversations that Augsburg has a strong reputation for direct student-faculty engagement. We already know how important this is to our alumni, students, faculty, and staff, but it was gratifying to hear that members of the broader community also value Augsburg as a student-centered organization. This is something Augsburg needs to ensure does not change. Augsburg University will not become an institution marked by big campuses or large studentto-faculty ratios. Instead, as is articulated in our Augsburg2019 strategic vision, Augsburg will be a new kind of student-centered university, and just as we have done for decades, Augsburg will remain committed to educating students for lives of purpose in a vibrant, engaged learning community. Learn about the visual identity of Augsburg University on the following pages. Learn more about the Augsburg2019 strategic vision, the name change, and the logo update at augsburg.edu/now. SPRING–SUMMER 2017 13 AUGSBURG NAME CHANGE HISTORY 1869 1872 1892 1942 AUGSBURG SEMINARIUM THE NORWEGIAN DANISH EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN AUGSBURG SEMINARY AUGSBURG SEMINARY AUGSBURG COLLEGE AND THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY EMBRACING OUR LEGACY AND OUR FUTURE When Samuel Gross ’03 was a student at Augsburg, he designed the original Auggie eagle-head symbol as an assignment for one of his graphic design courses. The design was so good, Augsburg ended up buying the rights to the image and has used the eagle symbol for campus life, student organizations, and athletics for the past 15 years. During that time, Gross became an award-winning designer and creative director who founded his own graphic design firm, 144design, with a specialty in developing logos for clients. So, when Augsburg needed to update its logo as part of the transition to the Augsburg University name, it was a perfect opportunity to re-engage with Gross to envision and design the next-generation Augsburg logo. “Early on, our conversation about the logo confirmed that this project should be an evolution of the Augsburg brand, not a revolution,“ Gross said. “We wanted to preserve the strong recognition that has been built for Augsburg over time. “Our goal was to preserve and respect the historic nature of Augsburg’s logo — especially since it already has strong 14 AUGSBURG NOW [Top Left]: The Augsburg “A” shape is reimagined. [Top Right]: Samuel Gross ’03 works on Augsburg University’s visual identity in April 2017. [Left]: Gross shows off merchandise displaying the first eagle-head symbol shortly after he created it for Augsburg in 2003. energy and good familiarity — while at the same time creating a treatment that also embraces the future,” he said. The results, including the updated Augsburg logo, “A” icon, and eagle-head symbol are shown on the next page. Separately, the Augsburg seal — which is used on transcripts, diplomas, and other official documents — was updated by Augsburg staff Mark Chamberlain and Denielle Johnson ’11 and is shown on pages 16-17. 1963 2017 AUGSBURG COLLEGE AUGSBURG UNIVERSITY UNIVERSITY COLLEGE Augsburg marks: honoring the legacy Augsburg logo Augsburg “A” icon Eagle-head symbol The Augsburg University logo is designed to feel familiar to people who are already acquainted with the College logo, connecting the new design with Augsburg’s legacy. In the new logo, the word “Augsburg” is more bold than the word “University.” This approach was informed by research suggesting that people’s strong associations are with the name, “Augsburg,” whether or not it is followed by “College” or “University.” The font selected for “Augsburg” conveys an established, academic feel, while the font for “University” provides a sleek, contemporary balance. The contrast of the two words creates a dynamic energy. By strengthening the design of the “A” icon — broadening its base and making the vertical strokes bolder — Augsburg will be able to use the “A” icon as a standalone graphic element much more frequently and effectively going forward. For example, current plans call for the “A” icon to be installed on the shorter ends of the sign on top of Mortensen Hall. This is one of the most visible signs in the region and will be updated this summer as part of the transition to “Augsburg University.” The eagle-head symbol is stronger and bolder with this evolution. Whereas the original design lost detail and contrast when translated to black-and-white treatments, the updated design is much more effective across a broader range of uses. Currently, designs using the updated eagle-head symbol are under development for an array of installations—from the Si Melby gym floor and the Edor Nelson athletic field scoreboard to the Christensen Center student lounge and merchandise sold in the Augsburg bookstore. SPRING–SUMMER 2017 15 AUGSBURG UNIVERSITY SEAL: HISTORY AND MEANING Past seals T he seal conservation process began as Augsburg College explored the steps involved in changing its institutional name to Augsburg University. The seal enhances an original centennial symbol design and aligns with the institution’s current reality, reputation, and promise. THE AUGSBURG COLLEGE SEAL WAS BASED ON A CENTENNIAL SYMBOL CREATED BY PAUL KONSTERLIE ’50. THE LION REPRESENTS AUGSBURG’S NORWEGIAN-AMERICAN HERITAGE. AUGSBURG’S CENTENNIAL SYMBOL, CREATED BY KONSTERLIE. THE LAMP OF LEARNING DEPICTS SOUND SCHOLARSHIP. THE FONT WAS INSPIRED BY THE CENTENNIAL SYMBOL. THE SEAL FOR AUGSBURG COLLEGE AND THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY FEATURED MARTIN LUTHER. 16 AUGSBURG NOW AUGSBURG WAS FOUNDED IN 1869 IN MARSHALL, WISCONSIN, AND MOVED TO MINNEAPOLIS IN 1872. THE CROSS DEPICTS THE SIGNIFICANT RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN THE CHURCH AND HIGHER EDUCATION. THE SILHOUETTE OF THE MINNEAPOLIS SKYLINE EMPHASIZES AUGSBURG’S METROPOLITAN RESOURCES AND OPPORTUNITIES. THE DEEPLY THEOLOGICAL STATEMENT, “THROUGH TRUTH TO FREEDOM,” SUMMARIZES THE BELIEF THAT THE TRUTH SETS US FREE TO BE EDUCATED AND TO SERVE. THE EAGLE REPRESENTS U.S. DEMOCRACY. THE FOSHAY TOWER RETURNS TO THE CENTER OF THE SEAL AS A NOD TO AUGSBURG’S CENTENNIAL SYMBOL. SPRING–SUMMER 2017 17 PHOTO BY DON STONER PHOTO BY COURTNEY PERRY [L to R]: At an Auggie Compass event, panelists Mike Gallagher ’12, Katie Jacobson ’11, and Dan Brandt ’11 spoke to students about the journey from college to their careers. PHOTO BY COURTNEY PERRY [Left]: This fall, student-athletes engaged in team-building exercises led by U.S. Marines. 18 AUGSBURG NOW [Above]: Student-athletes kicked off evening workshops by dining together. WINNING THE LONG GAME BY KATE H. ELLIOTT Meaningful, relevant workshops equip students to excel in the classroom, competition, and their careers S tudent-athletes file past tables, stacking breadsticks on mounds of pasta, but this crew isn’t carb-loading for the next matchup. The nearly 550 students from Augsburg’s 19 sports teams are preparing to tackle Auggie Compass—a series of workshops and team-building exercises designed to inspire personal and professional success. After piloting the program in 2014-15, Augsburg Athletics recruited this year’s lineup of on- and off-campus partners to engage each class in issues relevant to each stage of their undergraduate lives. Associate Athletic Director Kelly Anderson Diercks said the biannual series starts a conversation with studentathletes, then builds upon those themes each year as Auggies develop the confidence, expertise, and support networks they need to navigate known and unknown challenges during college and after graduation. For instance, first-year students discussed study skills, time management, and wellness, while seniors learned about financial planning, living their values, and networking techniques. “When I moved into my first house, I didn’t know furnaces had filters, and that’s just one example of the many things I should’ve known—but didn’t—before graduation,” said Anderson Diercks, who spearheaded the program. “We developed Auggie Compass from the best aspects of similar programs and from conversations with our coaches, student-athletes, and alumni. Our students seem more aware of campus and community resources and better prepared to excel in the real world.” Panel of alumni shares lessons from ‘professional lumps’ Among the spring event’s most popular sessions was a student-athlete alumni panel, “Not Where They Thought They’d Be,” which—as the title suggests—invited alumni to share lessons from their not-so-straight-orsmooth paths to personal and professional fulfillment. Mike Gallagher ’12 was among the four panelists asked “not to sugar coat” their transitions to the workforce. “My first paid job out of college lasted 21 months before I was laid off with 25 SPRING–SUMMER 2017 19 PHOTO BY COURTNEY PERRY PHOTO BY COURTNEY PERRY PHOTO BY COURTNEY PERRY Auggie Compass workshops target needs and issues specific to the phases in student-athletes’ academic and personal journeys. Each session builds upon the previous event, equipping Auggies with a deeper understanding of their values, career preparation, and wellness practices. percent of the company’s workforce, and that’s just one example of the professional lumps we shared,” said Gallagher, an academic advisor at Walden University and the on-air host/ producer of Gopher Sports Update and MIAC Weekly. “Our stories reinforced that new graduates likely will have to do things they don’t enjoy as they work toward goals. But we encouraged them to channel the persistence and dedication they gained as athletes toward new challenges and to say ‘yes’ to any opportunity to better themselves or gain new skills.” Gallagher, also a freelance sports broadcaster and emcee, talked openly about his path, which is a fairly common one: going to college with hopes of playing professional baseball, then realizing he wasn’t any better than his teammates. Then, struggling to find balance within the fun, demanding routine of workouts, competitions, classes, and life until he walked across the commencement stage and into a 9-to-5 job without the sport, the people, and the routine he’d always known. “It is, indeed, a huge wakeup call,” he said. Women’s golfer Wendy Anderson ’17 was among the seniors who rotated through the panel discussion. The double major in music business and accounting said she valued sessions about financial planning and interviews, but the alumni 20 AUGSBURG NOW panel resonated with her the most. “I’m a type-A, perfectionist planner. Hearing their stories reassured me that I may not end up where I thought I might, but because of these types of sessions and my Augsburg experience, I’ll survive and hopefully have a fulfilling career,” she said. “I’m glad I attended sessions about fiscal responsibility, but workshops that encouraged us to consider our values and worth and to step outside our comfort zones were the most rewarding. Guidance from Auggie Compass sessions paired with the entirety of our experiences prepares us to achieve.” Athletic Director Jeff Swenson ’79 is glad to hear student-athletes position Auggie Compass within the greater framework of their Augsburg education and athletic experience. The lessons and skills are interconnected, he said, strengthening one another. “Our athletes learn to win and lose with class, to embrace leadership, and to play their role—whatever that may be—to achieve a shared goal,” said Swenson, who has been a member of the Augsburg community for more than 30 years as a student, coach, and administrator. “These are all great lessons for life after sports, and Auggie Compass builds upon what teams and coaches are already instilling. At our core, we are about community and supporting these fine student-athletes on their journey. Auggie Compass prepares them to carry that legacy out to the world.” Building skills to navigate a complex environment Mike Matson ’07 knows all about Augsburg’s core principles. They guided him through his time as one of the College’s top linebackers, then through seminary, and now in his role as an assistant director of leadership gifts at the College. Matson said Augsburg’s commitment to diversity, inclusion, and community outfits students with empathy and poise to respectfully engage in meaningful conversations and authentic relationships. He talked with juniors about how to lead difficult conversations. “We live in a complicated world with complex people and issues, and those who are able to have difficult conversations in a respectful manner advance progress and understanding,” said Matson, who also serves in the Navy Reserves and as chaplain for the Minneapolis Police Department. “Instead of talking at the students, we challenged them to work through case studies. I can’t say I was all that surprised at how well they handled themselves, but I was impressed with how willing they were to share PHOTO BY DON STONER PHOTO BY COURTNEY PERRY This spring, members of the junior class headed to the gym for basketball and bean bag competitions with Special Olympics athletes, and in September, first-year students learned techniques to manage stress and practice mindfulness. vulnerabilities, speak about biases, and view situations through alternate perspectives. It was amazing to watch ‘community’ happen.” Unified tournament puts principles to practice Student-athletes didn’t only talk about ideals, they practiced them. Juniors headed to the Si Melby gymnasium to compete alongside 40 Special Olympics athletes in basketball and bean bag toss competitions. Jennifer Jacobs, who organized the volunteer effort, said the tournament underscored Augsburg’s commitment to service and inclusion. “We added [the unified competition] because civic engagement is one of the college’s co-curricular learning outcomes,” said Jacobs, then-assistant athletic director and assistant volleyball coach. “We decided to collaborate with Special Olympics because of an NCAA Division III partnership with the organization and because our ongoing involvement with the area chapter continually inspires our students.” Student-athlete Cody Pirkl ’18 had never interacted with Special Olympics athletes before the Auggie Compass event this spring. Initially, the baseball player had not been excited about the obligation on what otherwise would have been a free night. But as he said goodbye to Special Olympics teammates, the social work major said it felt like parting with dear friends. “We, as college athletes, become so focused on our own goals and everyday lives that we forget how rewarding it is to give back to others,” Pirkl said. “Our involvement with Special Olympics shines Augsburg’s positive light on our broader community, but it also gives us meaningful perspective. Watching the Special Olympics athletes’ pure love of the game reminded me how lucky I am and how much I love to play.” Pirkl said he and his teammates took a lot away from the mix of formats and engaging activities. That active structure was intentional, Anderson Diercks explained, as presenters played to student-athletes’ competitive nature. “For years, we had brought wonderful, inspiring speakers to campus once or twice a year to talk with students about hot topics or enduring life-aftercollege lessons,” Anderson Diercks said. “Although these experts offered great perspective and information, the format was a challenge, and we were never able to cover as many of the topics as we would have liked. The new Auggie Compass format allows us to engage each class in specific topics to prepare them for the next year and beyond. We can more easily adjust based on student feedback, and it’s a nice way to highlight our alumni and campus experts as well as celebrate community partnerships and resources.” Celebrating mindfulness and meditation One such resource is Jermaine Nelson, a meditation and mindfulness coach and yoga instructor. The former athlete urged students to seek mind-body connections as they strive to be more present. He also reminded them to give themselves grace during transitions and various phases of life. “It’s so easy for student-athletes to continue to eat and sleep how they did in college without the same level of activity, and then they look up one day and realize they are out of shape and out of sync,” Nelson said. “It’s important to anticipate, on the field and in life, so that you avoid injury and prepare for the next phase of your life.” Nelson wasn’t expecting to, but looking out at the dozens of student-athletes reminded him of his nephew, and Nelson got personal. His nephew was a promising college recruit, with plans to play in the NBA, but he broke down from all the pressure. “I wish he would have had a program like this when he was in school,” Nelson said. “Imagine all the heartache and recovery he would have avoided had he been offered the tools to cope and achieve without grinding himself into the ground. I worked with him, and he’s on a good path now, but it took a while. If Auggies can practice these techniques now, they’ll succeed.” SPRING–SUMMER 2017 21 Nelson’s talk reinforced some of the themes presented by Augsburg’s Center for Wellness and Counseling. For example, counselor Jon Vaughan-Fier and Beth Carlson, the center’s assistant director, co-facilitated “Becoming Resilient to Stress,” which challenged student-athletes to assess what drains them and to identify ways to recharge. In addition to discussing the importance of sleep, nutrition, and meaningful relationships—among other topics—students engaged in yoga, mindful breathing, and relaxation strategies. As a senior, Chuckie Smith ’17 took part in Auggie Compass workshops on financial planning, job search strategies, living authentically, and a variety of other topics. During the Compass program’s pilot year, the entire CWC staff also presented on a range of topics related to wellbeing, including body image, depression, healthy choices, and stress management, which Vaughan-Fier said is critically important for today’s overly busy student-athletes. “To emphasize the connection to sports and improved performance, we showed testimonials from Seattle Seahawks quarterback Russel Wilson about his ‘one play at a time’ mindset and New York Knicks President Phil Jackson’s philosophy of ‘one breath, one mind,’” Vaughan-Fier said. “We hope these tools help student-athletes as they strive to incorporate self-care practices into daily life.” According to a 2015 health survey, the top stressors among Augsburg students are: a death or serious illness of someone close, conflicts with roommates, parental conflict, and the end of a personal relationship. Director of the counseling center, Nancy Guilbeault, said the opportunity to interact with student-athletes about these and other topics is a proactive way to introduce the center’s role and resources. “Mental health and GPA are linked, and they affect your performance,” she said. “We want to make sure these studentathletes are working on their physical, mental, and spiritual health and wellbeing. These sessions provide an overview and tips, but we also encourage them to follow up with one-on-one or group support.” 22 AUGSBURG NOW Financial stressors, professional communications among top concerns A key barrier to wellness, Guilbeault said, is stress related to finances—a worry that plagues many students, particularly studentathletes who might not have the time to hold a job or internship. To build upon the counseling center’s session, Auggie Compass introduced a practical question-and-answer session with Tommy Redae ’09 MBA, a treasury management sales consultant and vice president of Middle Market Banking for Wells Fargo in Minneapolis. “Talking with upper-class students, I focused on the importance of budgeting and managing credit for a healthy financial future,” Redae said. “I shared several of the many online tools and apps to help them stick to a budget and monitor credit for suspicious or fraudulent activities.” Also in the category of practical and purposeful guidance, Auggie Compass enlisted faculty mentors Carol Enke and Shana Watters to offer best practices for professional communications. The pair broke student-athletes into groups to review and assess emails students sent professors, many of them lacking clarity, starting with an informal “hey,” or displaying accusatory language. “Research shows that people read emails more negatively than intended, and therefore, communicating effectively in this medium reduces ambiguity and negative perceptions,” Watters said. “The students did a great job of improving the emails, and we hope they will apply the guidance we shared to communicate with professionals now and in the future.” Program reinforces Augsburg’s mission, commitment to students The blend of practical knowledge and conceptual, creative exploration reflects Augsburg’s care for and commitment to student-athletes, and it supports community-building across teams and among coaches, said Swenson. This year, the program added a track for coaches that focused on situational leadership, social media training, and a DiSC® behavioral assessment inventory. “We’re not offering Auggie Compass to check off the ‘personal development box,’” Swenson said. “The program was developed by former collegiate players, thinking about what they wished they would have known, so that our student-athletes can have more tools to reach for as they strive for success.” The creation and evolution of Auggie Compass embodies some of the innovation, self-reflection, and grit the program aims to instill. Anderson Diercks said organizers continue to have conversations with student-athletes, alumni, and experts to align sessions with players’ needs and to reflect the latest trends and topics. As a former athlete turned furnace-filter-changing adult, she knows greatness doesn’t come from perfection but from the drive to keep playing until you get it right. HOMECOMING THOUSANDS OF AUGGIES. ONE AUGSBURG. Celebrate the first Augsburg University Homecoming NEW NAME. SAME SCHOOL SPIRIT. Gather among friends to celebrate the memories and milestones that define your Augsburg experience. Whether it’s to participate in a reunion, see campus updates firsthand, or cheer on a favorite team, it’s time to register for this year’s historic Homecoming—the first as Augsburg University. Interested in organizing your reunion? October 13-14 Call the Office of Alumni and Constituent Relations at 612-330-1085 or email alumni@augsburg.edu. Find accommodation information, the event schedule, and more at: augsburg.edu/homecoming FROM THE ALUMNI BOARD PRESIDENT Dear alumni and friends, s my second year as Alumni Board President comes to a close, I look back on the past several months with gratitude for what the Alumni Board has accomplished. We hope you have enjoyed recent alumni events, both on campus and off. At the start of my tenure, when I challenged the Alumni Board to change, not a little, but a lot, everyone stepped up to the plate and went to work. Today the board maintains more committees with fewer people on each, operates with clearly defined goals for each committee, and sustains a high level of engagement. We’ve also partnered with staff throughout the College to increase the board’s effectiveness and relevance. The Alumni Board continues to seek new pathways to connect with students, whether through mentoring, visiting classrooms, or simply sharing tips on LinkedIn. Students have said they enjoyed taking part in a Homecoming lunch last fall where they had the chance to share a table with distinguished alumni who pursued similar fields of study. We also held another successful Auggie Networking Experience in February, and if you couldn’t make it to campus, you’ll find some tips for reluctant networkers on page 27. In June, we transition board leadership. I’d like to welcome Nick Rathmann ’03 as Alumni Board President for the 2017-19 term. He is full of energy, has a passion for Augsburg, and is a dynamic leader with innovative ideas to take the Alumni Board even further. He is the athletic director at The Blake School, a longtime supporter of Augsburg as a member of the A-Club, and an all-around amazing volunteer. The Alumni Board is in great hands under his leadership. I’d also like to recognize Greg Schnagl ’91, who has led our Networking Committee for the past two years. His passion for creating meaningful connections between students and alumni has helped make the Auggie Networking Experience event bigger and better. I recently moved away from the Twin Cities for work, and I am so pleased to see alumni events scheduled across the U.S. more often. In the past two years, alumni gatherings have occurred in Denver, Las Vegas, Raleigh, Washington, D.C., and other cities. If you’re in the Minneapolis area, we hope to see you at some of this summer’s exciting alumni events! JILL WATSON ’10 MBA, ALUMNI BOARD PRESIDENT SUMMER ALUMNI EVENTS Minnesota United Soccer Night June 21 | 7 p.m. Republic 420 SE 23rd Ave., Minneapolis Meet for an alumni reception at Republic from 4:30–6:30 p.m. before taking the light rail to TCF Bank Stadium for a game. 7 People. 7 Passions. 7 Minutes. July 7 | 7–9 p.m. Sisyphus Brewing 712 Ontario Ave. W., Minneapolis Hear idea-stirring talks from seven passionate Auggies. $10 covers your first beverage and light appetizers. Auggie Night at Canterbury Park July 21 | 5:30–7 p.m. 1100 Canterbury Road, Shakopee, MN $5 reservation covers a buffet meal, $5 of Canterbury Currency, and reserved seating. Happy Hour Squared URBAN ARBORETUM Join the Alumni Board to sponsor a tree You can help transform Augsburg into an urban arboretum that serves as an educational and community resource in harmony with the environment. Join the Alumni Board’s effort to sponsor a tree in the urban arboretum planned for Augsburg’s campus. The trees selected for this plan will surround the Hagfors Center for Science, Business, and Religion and include species native to Minnesota. All gift levels are welcome. The total cost to sponsor a tree is $25,000, which includes long-term care and maintenance. Help us reach this goal by December 2018! Visit augsburg.edu/giving for more information or contact Amanda Scherer, assistant director of leadership gifts, at scherera@augsburg.edu or 612-330-1720. 24 AUGSBURG NOW September 5 | 5–7 p.m. Brave New Workshop 824 Hennepin Ave., Minneapolis Join alumnae business owners Jenni Lilledahl ’87 and Jacquie Berglund ’87 for a happy hour with a purpose. Make sandwiches for a good cause and enjoy a FINNEGANS® as part of Augsburg’s annual City Service Day. For more information and registration, visit augsburg.edu/alumni. COURTESY PHOTOS AUGGIES CONNECT [Top]: Travelers pose at Wat Chedi Luang Temple in Chiang Mai, Thailand. TRAVELING WITH [Far Left–L to R]: Hans Wiersma and Lori Brandt Hale, Department of Religion faculty members and trip leaders, pose with Katie (Koch) Code ’01, director of alumni and constituent relations. AUGGIES This winter, 15 Auggies traveled to Thailand and Cambodia with Augsburg College Professor of English Kathy Swanson and her husband, Jack, as their hosts. “The trip was beyond amazing,” said traveler and Alumni Board President Jill Watson ’10 MBA. “Our hosts, Jack and Kathy Swanson, have a passion for the people and culture of Thailand that was contagious throughout the trip. They were always willing to share insights, recommend food (such as sticky rice and mango at a floating market) and go out of their way to help others and ensure everyone was having a great trip. “Memories that stand out include the elephant camp in Chiang Mai, Thai cooking school, Angkor Wat in Siem Reap, Light for Kids orphanage, and the food ... all the foods! “Traveling with fellow Auggies meant I [Near Right]: Travelers stand in front of the Castle Church in Germany where Martin Luther nailed the 95 Theses to the door. had at least one thing in common with so many people I had never met before. By the end of the trip, I had developed new friendships, and I will be keeping in touch.” Celebrating Lutheran heritage in Germany and the Czech Republic Last fall, another group of Auggies traveled to the land of Luther to mark the 500th anniversary of the Protestant Reformation. Religion Department faculty members Hans Wiersma and Lori Brandt Hale led a group of 30 Augsburg alumni and friends on a multi-city tour that included Dresden, Prague, and Wittenberg—the long-time home of Reformation catalyst Martin Luther. One of the highlights for Augsburg Alumni Director Katie (Koch) Code ’01 was the opportunity to be in Wittenberg on Reformation Day. The town marked the occasion with a festival, and the Augsburg group visited Castle Church where Luther nailed his 95 Theses to the door. “At worship that morning we sang, ‘A Mighty Fortress is our God,’ which took me back to my Augsburg days enrolled in the Luther and the Reformers class with Religion Professor Mark Tranvik,” Code said. Minneapolis Star Tribune reporter Jean Hopfensperger and photographer Jerry Holt accompanied the group to chronicle how Minnesotans observed the 500th anniversary of the Reformation. In a story published after the group’s return home, Augsburg alumnae Carol Pfleiderer ’64 and Kathleen Johnson ’72 described how the trip itinerary offered participants opportunities to build and reflect on their faith. To view trip photos, visit augsburg.edu/now. SPRING–SUMMER 2017 25 A GIFT FOR AUGSBURG IN ROCHESTER Louise and Regent Emeritus Leland “Lee” Sundet will help Augsburg’s Rochester site grow thanks to a generous $1.5 million gift. The Rochester location attracts more than 350 working professionals to undergraduate and graduate programs in business, education, health care, and nursing. As longtime supporters of Augsburg, including the Weekend College and Youth and Family Ministry programs, the Sundets have used their frugality to benefit others and to raise the profile of Augsburg. Several years ago, in an effort to better communicate Augsburg’s identity locally, Sundet helped form a marketing committee and was instrumental in choosing a new logo with a cross embedded in the “A.” He remains steadfast in his commitment to religion and religious freedom as essential to education. In his 88 years, Lee has never lost sight of the basics: thrift, generosity, and faith. “I also believe in old-fashioned discipline—‘don’t spend it till you’ve earned it,’” he said. Lee learned these principles early, growing up in Spring Grove, Minnesota, where most Norwegian-American community members attended the big Lutheran church. “My father died when I was six months old, and my mother PHOTO BY BRENDAN BUSH PHOTO BY BRENDAN BUSH AUGGIES CONNECT was quite ill so she had to sell everything she had to pay the bills. She got $7.43 a month, and of that, 74 cents went to the church,” said Lee, who has embraced tithing ever since. A retired industrialist and manufacturer, Lee owned several companies, including Century Manufacturing, Goodall Manufacturing, Britt Manufacturing, and Fountain Industries. His business acumen earned him such honors as Minnesota’s Small Business Man of the Year and the University of Minnesota’s Outstanding Achievement Award. The couple has sponsored a business scholarship at Augsburg since 1992. Overall, the Sundets are impressed by the potential of Augsburg’s programs in Rochester and by the work of another community anchor, Mayo Clinic, which the couple believes shares their values. “Augsburg has come a long way, and I would love to see it grow in Rochester.” 26 AUGSBURG NOW “I have met people at Mayo who have gone through the Augsburg program, and I’ve seen what it’s done for them. It’s a wonderful thing,” Lee said. “It wasn’t easy to get it started, but it’s fun to look back on. Augsburg has come a long way, and I would love to see it grow in Rochester.” tips for the reluctant networker Augsburg College alumna Jenni Lilledahl ’87 was a featured speaker at the Auggie Networking Experience in February. As co-owner of the sketch and improvisational comedy theater Brave New Workshop in Minneapolis, Lilledahl brought insight from the improv world to the crowd of nearly 300 alumni and students meeting to exchange career advice. No matter their personality or career, Lilledahl said, all people have anxiety about jumping into new conversations or taking new career paths. Here she shares tips for individuals to jump-start meaningful conversations and say “yes” to new experiences. 1. We all get uncomfortable, yet we cannot let this feeling control us. Instead, we must face our fears and immerse ourselves in new experiences. 2. Sometimes saying “yes” is easier than we think. Don’t rattle off 20 excuses; jump in with an open mind. 3. PHOTOS BY RICKY TAYLOR ’17 Stop yourself from using the word “but.” Instead, use the reframing mindset of “yesand” to add something positive to each situation you are in. Don’t use excuses to squash new ideas, possibilities, or adventures. Rather, embrace them. 4. Be intentional about your communication. Don’t just be there. Be awake, aware, and connected to the other people in the room. 5. Have gratitude for the chance to develop relationships, share ideas, and try new things. People who create authentic connections with others are often more successful than those who possess only technical skills. Augsburg alumni and students participated in short improvisational exercises at the event. with the Young Alumni Council Auggies who have graduated from any Augsburg degree program in the past 10 years are invited to join the Young Alumni Council and help plan year-round activities for recent alumni. In the past, the Young Alumni Council has organized a Twins game outing, a financial planning talk and social hour at Summit Brewery, and an afternoon of ice skating at The Depot in Minneapolis. For Young Alumni Council Vice President Evan Decker ’12, taking part in the group provides opportunities to practice valuable life and business skills that he doesn’t necessarily hone in his day- to-day work, such as planning meetings and events, communicating with fellow alumni, speaking to groups, and networking. Serving the council also is a way to stay engaged with the College. “Some people feel there aren’t resources for them after graduation, and that couldn’t be further from the truth,” Decker said. “This group is here to help bridge that gap.” To join the Young Alumni Council, visit augsburg.edu/alumni. SPRING–SUMMER 2017 27 ALUMNI CLASS NOTES 1961 Last year, First Lutheran Church in Red Wing, Minnesota, recognized Arlan Johnson ’61 for 50 years of service to its choir as a singer and director. While a student at Augsburg, Johnson played in the band for four years and sang in the choir for two years. He enjoyed tours with the band and choir in the Pacific Northwest, and in 1960 he participated in an extended Alaskan band trip to the Anchorage Music Festival. After graduating from Augsburg, he completed his education requirements, student taught at Braham (Minnesota) Area High School with Herman Aune ’50, and finished a second major in biology. Johnson taught band and vocal music in Stewart, Minnesota, and elementary, junior high, and middle school band in Red Wing until his retirement. He and his wife, Phyllis, continue to live in Red Wing. 1967 5 0-Y E AR RE UNI ON HOMECOMING 2017 Associate Professor of Chemistry Sandra Olmsted ’69 retires after serving Augsburg since 1978. See page 2. 1971 Darrell Skogen ’71 retired after teaching for 46 years. He spent the past 41 years at St. MichaelAlbertville High School in Minnesota. Skogen is the longest-tenured employee in the history of the school district. He taught classes such as AP World History and AP U.S. History. Skogen continues to instruct part-time at the high school and records stats for its football program. He says that the school’s Class 5A football state championship victory in 2015 was the first in his 50 years walking the sidelines. 1974 Dr. Subhashchandra “Pat” Patel ’74 and Annette (Hanson) Patel ’73 donated their dental clinics in Clarkfield and Cottonwood, Minnesota, to Open Door Health Center of Mankato. Open Door will run satellite dental clinics in the towns. Pat retired in June 2016. Associate Professor of Music Peter Hendrickson ’76 retires after teaching at Augsburg for more than two decades. See page 2. 1977 40- YE A R R E U N I O N HOMECOMING 2017 In August, Neil Paulson ’77 was elected state committeeman for the Republican Party in Orange County, Florida. for Advanced Science and Technology. 1979 1990 Walter Ohrbom ’79 earned a doctorate in chemistry from North Dakota State University after graduating from Augsburg. He retired from BASF as a senior research associate with more than 120 U.S. patents. Over the years, he and his wife, Patricia, have traveled around the world to backpack, bike, canoe, and scuba dive. Athletic Director Jeff Swenson ’79 draws connections between student athletes’ time on campus and leadership roles after graduation. See page 18. 1988 Kiel Christianson ’88 was promoted to full professor in the Department of Educational Psychology at the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, where he conducts research on language processing, reading, and bilingualism. He is associate chair of the department, as well as leader of the Educational Psychology Psycholinguistics Lab and co-chair of the Illinois Language and Literacy Initiative, both in the Beckman Institute In July, Karen Jean Reed ’90, a music therapy major, was honored with the President’s Award at the Southern California First Ecclesiastical Jurisdiction Church Of God in Christ 50th State Women’s Convention, held in Palm Desert, California. She also was nominated for the 50 Women of Excellence honor for her exemplary service and outstanding achievement in music and administrative service in local, church, district, regional, and state positions. Reed has excelled in music as a gospel saxophonist and in women’s ministry. She was recognized for exemplary service by Barbara McCoo Lewis, the assistant general supervisor of the Church of God in Christ International. Reed serves as the assistant regional missionary for the Santa Barbara region and also works with youth. Professionally, she is a program director at the Department of State HospitalsCoalinga, overseeing the treatment of sexually violent predators. She is the author of “Music is the Master Key.” AUGGIES NEAR AND FAR [L to R]: Sociology Professor Tim Pippert and Torstenson Scholars Ellen Sachs ’17, Emily Campbell ’17, and Jen Kochaver ’19 meet with Mark Johnson ’75 on campus. [Not pictured]: Torstenson Scholar Mark Daniels ’17. 28 AUGSBURG NOW Last fall, metro-urban studies alumnus Mark Johnson ’75 invited Sociology Professor Tim Pippert to the remote country of Vanuatu in the South Pacific. The pair distributed solar lights donated by Johnson to villages on the island of Tanna, which in 2015 suffered widespread destruction due to Hurricane Pam. For Pippert, the trip was an adventure of a lifetime and an opportunity to observe the relationships Johnson has developed with local people over the course of several previous trips. The connection between Johnson and Pippert was built, in part, through their involvement with Augsburg’s Torstenson Community Scholars program that supports undergraduate research. Since 2015, Johnson has funded research opportunities for Auggies engaged in the program, which is named in memory of Professor Joel Torstenson ’38, a founder of Augsburg’s Department of Sociology. This February, four Torstenson Scholars traveled with Pippert to North Dakota’s Bakken oilfield region to assess how residents have been impacted by oil exploration. From the Auggie Connections blog. Visit augsburg.edu/alumni/blog to read more. 1992 2 5-Y EA R RE UNI ON HOMECOMING 2017 Scott Peterson ’92 has accepted a call to be the pastor at Lutheran Church in the Foothills in La Cañada, California. After living in Canada for more than 17 years, Peterson has returned to the U.S. to continue ministry within the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. 1993 Chad Shilson ’93 is the Minnesota women’s wrestling director for USA Wrestling. He has completed his 100th marathon and qualified for his fourth Boston Marathon. Marathon running has taken him to 36 states, including 29 states in the past two years. A dedicated daily runner, Shilson has run at least one mile per day for more than six years. 1996 Stephanie Harms ’96 and Kristin (Young) Miller ’91 are helping change the nation’s response to vulnerable individuals and families through their work in the supportive housing movement. Both Auggies work at CSH, a national nonprofit organization that connects housing with services for vulnerable populations. Based in New York City, Miller leads a successful CSH program that assists communities throughout New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania. Harms serves as chief operating officer and leads CSH’s communications, administrative, talent, and human resource efforts. CSH has ended veteran homelessness in several communities throughout the U.S., created more than 100,000 homes for individuals and families, and changed public systems to address the root conditions that create turmoil in the lives of vulnerable individuals and families. ’05 ’03 1999 Peter Durow ’99 has been commissioned by the American Choral Directors Association of Minnesota for the 2018 ACDA-MN State 4-5-6 Girls’ Honor Choir. ACDA-MN has been committed to commissioning new choral works for all-state and honor choirs from Minnesota composers each year since 1975. Durow serves as visiting director of choral activities at St. Cloud State University. ’67 Juliane Derry ’00 blends science with artistry and research with intuition as a historic materials conservator. See page 8. AUGGIE SNAPSHOTS Andrea (Carlson) Conway ’05 and Riley Conway ’05 welcomed a son, Soren Jon, in December. Soren is the grandson of Jon Carlson ’79 and great-grandson of Jeroy Carlson ’48. Golf Association and president of Women in the Golf Industry. She also wrote an e-book titled, “Hit It, Alice! A Woman’s Golf Guide to Everything But the Swing.” Barb (Walen) Hanson ’67 became president of the Minnesota Golf Association at its annual meeting in November. She is the first woman to serve in this role. Since retiring from her teaching career, Hanson has been actively involved in the golf world, having served as president of the Minnesota Women’s Paul Putt ’03, ’15 MAE and his wife, Katie, celebrated the birth of a son, Theodore Howard, in October. ’05 ’67 ’03 Pete Pfeffer ’87, who holds a Doctor of Chiropractic degree, and his daughter, Maggie, served on a chiropractic and medical ’87 ’87 mission team in Kimana, Kenya. The team provided care and education to hundreds of Maasai villagers living in bomas and orphanages in an underserved area. Pete and his brother, Mike Pfeffer ’92, jointly own and serve as chiropractors for a HealthSource Chiropractic and Progressive Rehabilitation Clinic in Alexandria, Minnesota. In addition to private practice, Pete has taken on a national role with the HealthSource Corporation to provide training in technique and rehabilitation procedures for new franchises. SPRING–SUMMER 2017 29 ALUMNI CLASS NOTES Mathematics and Statistics Instructor Alyssa Hanson ’01 is honored with a Distinguished Contributions to Teaching and Learning award. See page 7. 2002 JCI Minnesota (formerly Minnesota Jaycees) selected Katie Lindenfelser ’02, founder of Crescent Cove, as one of the Ten Outstanding Young Minnesotans for 2016. The mission of Crescent Cove is to offer care and support to young people with a shortened life expectancy and their families. The vision of Crescent Cove is to build and operate the first residential children’s hospice and respite care home in the Midwest. Started in 1950, the Ten Outstanding Young Minnesotans honor is Minnesota’s only statewide recognition program for outstanding young leaders ages 18-40 who have devoted themselves to improving their communities. The program acknowledges the efforts and accomplishments of young adults who contribute to Minnesota through their service, thought and influence, community involvement, or entrepreneurship. 2003 Reginaldo HaslettMarroquin ’03 published “In the Shadow of Green Man.” The book, published by Acres USA, chronicles Haslett-Marroquin’s upbringing in revolution-torn Guatemala and how he built his vision to develop a regenerative farming model that uplifts individuals and communities. Throughout the book, he shares the fable of the Green Man, a tiny and wise Guatemalan folk character whose stories teach the importance of respecting the natural world. HaslettMarroquin is chief strategy officer for Main Street Project, based in Northfield, Minnesota. Haslett-Marroquin has served as a consultant for the United Nations Development Program’s Bureau for Latin America and as an advisor to the World Council of Indigenous People. He was a founding member of the Fair Trade Federation, and was Director of the Fair Trade Program for the Institute for Agriculture and Trade Policy from 1995 to 1998. He also led the creation, strategic positioning, startup, and launch of Peace Coffee, a Minnesota-based fair-trade coffee company. Samuel Gross ’03 designs new university logo. See page 12. 2007 10-YEAR REUNION HOMECOMING 2017 Mike Matson ’07 helps teach student-athletes how to engage in difficult conversations. See page 18. Jenessa Payano Stark ’07 began a Master of Science in Nursing program at Yale University this past fall. She is studying in Yale’s Nurse-Midwifery/Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner program. She received a prestigious National Health Service Corps Scholarship that pays her tuition and fees, and defrays her living expenses for three years in exchange for future service in an area with a shortage of health professionals. 2011 Dan Skaarup ’11 and Casey (Ernst) Skaarup ’11 welcomed a daughter, Eowyn River, to the world in December. Laura Schmidt ’11 and Sarah Witte ’12 launched a nonprofit, spiritually based community called Intertwine Northeast. The group’s mission is to be “made and moved by story, convinced by compassion, always in process, and about questions, not answers.” Mike Gallagher ’12 shares life lessons with current students. See page 18. 2014 Composer and percussionist Zack Baltich ’14 was featured in the 2017 Cedar Commissions. Baltich’s piece “ingress/passage” used contact microphones and uncommon performance techniques on marimba, glass bottles, and other found objects. The Cedar Commissions (formerly the 416 Commissions) is a flagship program for emerging artists made possible with a grant from the Jerome Foundation and has showcased new work by more than 30 emerging composers and musicians. Catherine Colsrud ’14 was one of 25 leaders who participated in the eighth cohort of the Native Nation Rebuilders Program sponsored by the Native Governance Center and the Bush Foundation. Representatives from 12 Native nations from Minnesota, North Dakota, and South Dakota were selected for the Rebuilders AUGGIE SNAPSHOTS Kathleen (Watson) Bradbury ’12 and Krissy Bradbury ’12 welcomed Peter Gene to their family. ’12 Beckie Jackson ’10 received a Fulbright Distinguished Award in Teaching and is one of approximately 45 U.S. citizens traveling abroad through the program in 2016-17. In January, she headed to Botswana to spend five months conducting educational research. Recipients of Fulbright grants are selected ’10 30 AUGSBURG NOW on the basis of academic and professional achievement, as well as demonstrated leadership potential. Jackson teaches at Moose Lake High School in Moose Lake, Minnesota. Nick Rathmann ’03 and wife, Shannon, welcomed a daughter, Finley Grace, in November. ’03 ’11 Several Augsburg College alumni serve as tutors and coaches with Minnesota Reading Corps and Minnesota Math Corps. Tutors pledge one year of service in schools to help children become proficient readers by the end of third grade and proficient in math by the end of eighth grade. [L to R]: Charmaine Bell ’11, Kathleen Abel ’76, Joaquin Vences ’16, Kacie Carlsted ’15, Christine Fankhanel ’02, Amy Riebs ’18 MAE, and Alicia (Oppelt) Musselman ’14. ’91 Nancy Palmer ’91 joined the Minnesota Reading Corps September Program as a leadership component of a larger initiative to support tribes as they strengthen their governing capabilities. Colsrud serves the Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe as the commissioner of administration, chief of staff, and acting commissioner of natural resources. Native Governance Center and Bush Foundation Rebuilders convened for four structured sessions during which they developed action plans to share knowledge with peers and their respective tribal governments. ’12 ’10 GRADUATE PROGRAMS Nursing Department Chair Joyce Miller ’02, ’05 MAN, ’11 DNP earns a Distinguished Contributions to Teaching and Learning award. See page 7. Tommy Redae ’09 MBA helps Auggies prepare for a healthy financial future. See page 18. Rochelle Fischer ’14 MSW became a hospital administrator at Anoka-Metro Regional Treatment Center in January. For the past four years, she has been an assistant program director at the Minnesota Security Hospital in St. Peter, Minnesota, providing day-to-day operational and administrative leadership for persons with complex behavioral health symptoms. ’03 ’11 Dan Klein ’15 MBA and Kaitlin (Astleford) Klein were married February 25 in Hollywood, Florida. Nicole (Egly) Olson ’15 MBA and Mark Olson were married February 24 in Playa del Carmen, Mexico. Institute and tutors students in kindergarten through third grade. ’91 Chris Stedman ’08, an interfaith activist and author, is joining Augsburg this spring as a fellow serving the Sabo Center for Democracy and Citizenship where he will facilitate and build new community partnerships for non-religious and interfaith civic engagement. Stedman also will consult on the development of interfaith engagement programs at Augsburg. ’08 ’08 31 HEALING WATERS ’68 Jason Kusiak ’08 spends late winter and early spring long-lining for cod and haddock, and most of the year catching lobster. Fishing in long-established seaports near Gloucester, Massachusetts, gives Kusiak an appreciation for the area’s rich history and a healthy respect for those who made a living fishing the Atlantic in earlier times. “With fishing,” he said, “you can see the direct result of your work ethic.” Today Kusiak recognizes that his entrepreneurial inclination was shaped by Assistant Professor of Business John Cerrito and former staff member Peggy Cerrito, and that his drive for continual personal growth was influenced by his involvement in StepUP®, the College’s residential collegiate recovery community. While at Augsburg, Kusiak found that the College’s commitment to building strong community connections and emphasis on learning through experience resonated with him. He now seeks out opportunities to interact with new people, to give back, and to offer hope to individuals and families who struggle with substance abuse. He’s driven to invest in the future of his business and his community. ’78 From the Auggie Connections blog. Visit augsburg.edu/alumni/blog to read more. AUGGIE SNAPSHOTS ’83 [L to R]: This fall, Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Service President Linda Hartke met with former U.S. Secretary of State Madeleine Albright and the Rev. Mark Hanson ’68, former presiding bishop of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, at the LIRS Walk of Courage Award Gala. Albright and Hanson were honored at the event for their commitments to furthering equity for all people. ’68 ’71 Actor and performing arts educator Luverne Seifert ’83 won a $25,000 fellowship from the William and Eva Fox Foundation. He is part of a national cohort of artists supported by the foundation, which underwrites training and career development for performers. The support will enable Seifert to deeply explore his art and travel to France and Switzerland. In the past 25 years, he has acted at theaters in the Twin Cities and across the U.S. ’83 ’05 [L to R]: Margaret Marx ’78, Margo Casey ’78, and Cathy (Kaiser) Bloomquist ’78, all members of the original second step Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at ’78 ’06 32 AUGSBURG NOW Augsburg, continue their friendship today. The women gathered in Scandia, Minnesota, in September, and they share this photo as a reminder of the second step program’s impact on the nursing profession in Minnesota. Bob Stacke ’71 received an award from the Somali Museum of Minnesota on the occasion of the museum’s third anniversary last October. Stacke has provided music and photography services to the museum since its inception. ’71 Janeece (Adams) Oatman ’05, an Augsburg Alumni Board member, and Jim Gross, associate provost for academic innovation and strategic initiatives, were part of the Auggie team at the Rochester, Minnesota, Tour de Cure in October. ’05 Missy (Gaulke) Wilson ’06 completed her first Ragnar trail race and ’06 her third Ragnar overall race in September. She ran 15.2 miles on the Ragnar Trail Northwoods - WI in the Ragnar relay. Helen M. (Anderson) Johnson ’40, Hallock, Minnesota, age 96, on September 4. Eleanor C. (Christenson) Kline ’44, Minneapolis, age 93, on May 31. Marvin W. Johnson ’45, Rochester, Minnesota, age 93, on November 28. Olav Overold ’45, Cando, North Dakota, age 103, on January 23. Bonnie J. (Sorem) Anderson ’46, Cedar Falls, Iowa, age 92, on December 7. Delpha M. (Randklev) Berg ’47, Grand Forks, North Dakota, age 91, on September 12. Ray E. Gerlinger ’49, Overland Park, Minnesota, age 93, on December 4. Theodore C. Nystuen ’49, Altoona, Wisconsin, age 94, on January 19. Lorraine G. V. (Lundh) Qual ’49, Lisbon, North Dakota, age 93, on October 4. Joan L. (Sears) Ryden ’49, Cedar Hill, Texas, age 91, on October 18. Phebe D. (Dale) Hanson ’50, Minneapolis, age 88, on December 16. Evelyn I. (Shelstad) Kriesel ’50, Alamo, Texas, age 88, on September 21. Rhonda M. (Hektner) Lybeck ’50, Fargo, North Dakota, age 88, on January 29. Daniel Nelson ’50, Spicer, Minnesota, age 90, on February 14. Melvin E. Vigen ’50, Irving, Texas, age 88, on September 26. Arvild T. Jacobson ’51, Sun City, Arizona, age 93, on November 26. Donald H. Olson ’51, Henderson, Nevada, age 87, on December 19. Robert “Bob” R. Hage ’52, Hector, Minnesota, age 88, on December 16. William “Bill” J. Kuross ’52, Hopkins, Minnesota, age 87, on January 31. Charlotte M. (Kleven) Rimmereid ’52, St. Paul, age 86, on December 29. Roger V. Anderson ’53, Ottawa, Ontario, age 86, on February 11. Joan J. (Johnson) Kuder ’53, Williams Bay, Wisconsin, age 86, on December 19. Harry E. Olson ’53, Apopka, Florida, age 84, on October 7. Nola E. (Bengtson) Studer ’53, Bemidji, Minnesota, age 85, on September 5. Donna R. (Osland) Gaines ’54, Laguna Hills, California, age 84, on September 17. Ruth M. (Pousi) Ollila ’54, Minneapolis, age 84, on February 14. Betty J. (Dyrud) Oudal ’54, Rochester, Minnesota, age 85, on December 31. Arlene V. (Tollefson) Paulson ’54, Lake Oswego, Oregon, age 89, on September 20. Gary R. Rust ’54, Burnsville, Minnesota, age 85, on October 12. Robert “Bob” E. Twiton ’54, Brainerd, Minnesota, age 84, on February 26. Theodore “Ted” S. Berkas ’56, Minneapolis, age 88, on January 15. Robert A. Fundingsland ’65, St. Louis Park, Minnesota, age 73, on September 19. Sanford E. Egesdal ’56, Minneapolis, age 82, on October 3. Marie D. (Hafie) MacNally ’65, Minneapolis, on November 7. Robert A. Roos ’56, Robbinsdale, Minnesota, age 86, on September 3. Dale H. Peterson ’69, Sapulpa, Oklahoma, age 69, on November 27. Merlin J. White ’56, Fridley, Minnesota, age 86, on September 8. Anita M. (Lindquist) King ’70, Pella, Iowa, age 68, on September 1. Raymond Seaver ’57, Fergus Falls, Minnesota, age 82, on December 5. Chuck S. Marsh ’73, Puyallup, Washington, age 65, on November 14. Robert H. Gustafson ’59, Cambridge, Minnesota, age 84, on January 28. Colleen M. (Brown) Olson ’74, Shakopee, Minnesota, age 63, on August 20. John P. Martisen ’59, Minneapolis, age 81, on August 30. Sheila M. (Conway) Kortuem ’84, St. Peter, Minnesota, age 76, on August 26. Lloyd H. Reichstadt ’59, Flagstaff, Arizona, age 84, on November 21. Paul C. Casperson ’60, Dallas, Texas, age 77, on January 31. Wayne R. Juntunen ’60, Esko, Minnesota, age 83, on December 5. Karen O. (Egesdal) Trelstad ’61, Red Wing, Minnesota, age 79, on November 30. Coralyn J. (Lunsted) Bryan ’62, Minneapolis, age 77, on October 25. Joshua B. Lerman ’08, Louisville, Kentucky, age 33, on November 18. Angel G. Rodriguez ’15, Minneapolis, age 25, on January 3. Tyler G. Kotewa ’17, Fairmont, Minnesota, age 25, on December 7. Mark A. DiCastri ’18, Minneapolis, age 29, on February 27. Clair A. Johannsen ’62, Hagerstown, Maryland, age 79, on February 10. Paul W. Anderson ’63, Moorhead, Minnesota, age 77, on January 31. Gaylen K. Heggen ’63, Cottage Grove, Minnesota, age 75, on October 26. The “In memoriam” listings in this publication include notifications received before March 15. SPRING–SUMMER 2017 33 PHOTO BY RICKY TAYLOR ’17 IN MEMORIAM PHOTOS BY COURTNEY PERRY 2211 Riverside Avenue Minneapolis, MN 55454 Steve Wozniak inspires Auggies to ‘Learn Different’ Apple, Inc. co-founder Steve Wozniak engaged the Augsburg community in a conversation that emphasized the importance of creativity, education, and innovation in an increasingly connected world. Wozniak launched Apple with Steve Jobs in 1976, revolutionizing the personal computer industry. Wozniak’s visit took place this winter during Scholarship Weekend, an opportunity for prospective students to compete for Fine Arts and Honors scholarships. Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Twin Cities, MN Permit No. 2031
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Title: Augsburg Now Spring 2011: Research In Focus
Collection: Alumni Magazine Collection
Search Result: AUGSBURG NOW SPRING 2011 VOL. 73, NO. 2 inside research Augsburg Now The Magazine of Augsburg College 25Calculus Years of Life-Changing Workshop Good coffee, good cause International photo contest Sundquist Scholars Travel Vocation in interfaith context Chris Stedman ’08 page 20 the l...
Show more AUGSBURG NOW SPRING 2011 VOL. 73, NO. 2 inside research Augsburg Now The Magazine of Augsburg College 25Calculus Years of Life-Changing Workshop Good coffee, good cause International photo contest Sundquist Scholars Travel Vocation in interfaith context Chris Stedman ’08 page 20 the lens Serving Auggie athletics Under in focus Editor notes from President Pribbenow a Conflict is the gadfly of thought. It stirs us to observation and memory. It instigates to invention. It shocks us out of sheep-like passivity, and sets us at noting and contriving. Not that it always effects this result; but conflict is a ‘sine qua non’ of reflection and ingenuity. As I listened to these aspiring Auggies consider what Dewey intended, I was convinced that this quote gets at the heart of an Augsburg education. Creative Director Kathy Rumpza ’05 MAL rumpza@augsburg.edu Creative Associate-Editorial Wendi Wheeler ’06 wheelerw@augsburg.edu Conflict and learning s I write this column, there are reports from far and near of conflicts in the world that reflect fundamental questions about our values and aspirations. We have witnessed clashes on the Augsburg campus between different lifestyles and value systems. We have experienced shootings in our neighborhood and lived in the aftermath of violence in our community. We have seen mass gatherings in neighboring states reflecting deep divisions in visions of a good society and a good life. And we have felt the rising tide of freedom and democracy in nations around the world and the seismic shifts underway in political and social systems. The challenge we must face as a teaching and learning community is what we will do in the face of this conflict. Will we withdraw and wait to see what happens? Or will we find in the various conflicts the “stuff” of a liberal arts education and the inspiration to put our education to work in engaging the conflicts and seeking to make a difference in the world? I think it is fair to assume that the Augsburg community chooses the latter challenge. Recently, prospective Augsburg scholarship students were asked to reflect on a provocative quote from the great American educator and philosopher, John Dewey, who once wrote: Betsey Norgard norgard@augsburg.edu Creative Associate-Design Jen Nagorski ’08 nagorski@augsburg.edu Our students learn to observe and remember. Our students engage and learn from the messiness and complexity and conflict of the world through experiences on campus, in our urban neighborhood, and around the world. Our students—indeed our entire community—are shocked out of passivity to be informed, thoughtful, and courageous actors in the world. This issue of Augsburg Now offers ample evidence of Dewey’s argument for the links between conflict and learning. Chris Stedman’s journey through interfaith dialogues—a growing aspect of an Augsburg education—illustrates how our students face otherness and difference in considering their own callings in the world. The work of our MBA students helping neighborhood youth start a small business reflects the ways in which Augsburg’s location in the city shapes an education that does not flinch from the realities of urban life. And the good reports on student research projects offer important evidence of how an Augsburg education—across the disciplines—challenges our students to fight complacency, to push the edges of learning, and not to settle for what is expected. I am proud to report that in our classrooms and residence halls, on campus and out in the community, and indeed all around the world, Auggies are pursuing what John Dewey called us to be— informed citizens, thoughtful stewards, critical thinkers, and responsible leaders. We are learning from our experiences of the complexities and messiness and conflicts of the world—and then we are getting to work in our own ways, with our distinctive gifts and callings. Photographer Stephen Geffre geffre@augsburg.edu Webmaster/Now Online Bryan Barnes barnesb@augsburg.edu Sports Information Director Don Stoner stoner@augsburg.edu Assistant Vice President of Marketing and Communication Rebecca John rjohn@augsburg.edu Director of Alumni and Constituent Relations Kim Stone stonek@augsburg.edu www.augsburg.edu Augsburg Now is published by Augsburg College 2211 Riverside Ave. Minneapolis, MN 55454 Opinions expressed in Augsburg Now do not necessarily reflect official College policy. ISSN 1058-1545 Send address corrections to: Advancement Services CB 142 Augsburg College 2211 Riverside Ave. Minneapolis, MN 55454 langemo@augsburg.edu E-mail: now@augsburg.edu Telephone: 612-330-1181 Fax: 612-330-1780 PAUL C. PRIBBENOW, PRESIDENT spring 2011 Features 15 12 19 contents 10 26 On the cover Justin Ingebretson ’12 is an incredibly bright and talented young scientist whose story could get anyone excited about water fleas. He is one of six students featured in “Under the lens: Student research at Augsburg.” All photos by Stephen Geffre unless otherwise indicated. augsburg now 10 Talking about faith and values 12 Good coffee. Good cause. 15 Calculus—and so much more 19 Under the lens: Student research at Augsburg 26 BY WENDI WHEELER ’06 Chris Stedman learned how to focus on values and foster dialogue between faith communities and the nonreligious. BY WENDI WHEELER ’06 Augsburg MBA students complete a management consulting project and get much more than a grade. BY BETSEY NORGARD A workshop for introductory calculus also builds community and pushes students to engage in research and scholarship opportunities. BY WENDI WHEELER ’06 Student research is more than Bunsen burners and petri dishes. 2010 International Programs Photo Contest Departments inside front cover 2 7 8 9 29 32 36 Notes from President Pribbenow Around the Quad Auggies in sports My Auggie experience Auggie voices Alumni news Class notes It takes an Auggie around the quad Augsburg hosts international symposium on music therapy Augsburg College will host the Ninth International Society for Music in Medicine Symposium, June 8-12. The conference will provide an interdisciplinary and international forum for exchange of achievements in the field, state-of-the-art research, and applications of music in medicine, music therapy, and counseling. Scientific research as well as creative and innovative concepts will be discussed, and visits to local hospitals and clinical sites are planned. Medical doctors, nurses, healthcare practitioners, and music therapists from 11 countries—Australia, Austria, Canada, Finland, Germany, India, Italy, Norway, South Africa, United Kingdom, and the U.S.—will present their research on the use of music in medicine. Find more information and register for the symposium at www.augsburg.edu/musictherapy/ismm_home.html. NewsNotes Kemper Foundation selects Augsburg for scholarship Augsburg was selected as one of the Kemper Foundation’s Scholar Institutions, one of 16 institutions that best prepare students for organizational leadership. Each year, a first-year student is selected for a three-year scholarship and paid summer internship program funded by the Kemper Foundation in Chicago. Commencement 2011—speakers and honorary degrees May 7 Commencement—for day students and physician assistant graduate students Speaker: Kjell Magne Bondevik, former prime minister of Norway, founder and president of the Oslo Center for Peace and Human Rights Honorary Doctor of Humane Letters —Kjell Magne Bondevik and Ishmael Noko, Zimbabwean theologian and former general secretary of the Lutheran World Federation June 26 Commencement—Weekend College, Rochester, and graduate programs in business, education, leadership, nursing, and social work Speaker: Krista Tippett, writer and host of American Public Media’s Being Honorary Doctor of Humane Letters—Krista Tippett and Kwok Siu Tong, former executive vice president, United International College, China Nobel Peace Prize Forum relocates to Twin Cities The annual celebration of the Nobel Peace Prize Forum will evolve into a new format beginning in spring 2012. The forum will be held each year in the Twin Cities, organized by Augsburg in close partnership with the Humphrey Institute of Public Affairs at the University of Minnesota. It will continue with the support of the other four Norwegian Lutheran colleges, with strong ties to area organizations that share a commitment to educating for peace, and with opportunities for deeper engagement between the United States and Norway. Three Auggies receive athletic awards Bruce Johnson ’68 Healing Wisdom of Africa Malidoma Patrice Somé, an elder of the West African Dagara tribe in his native Burkina Faso, spoke twice during the Counseling and Health Promotion Convocation in February. In the strife and stress of the modern, materialistic world, Somé offered insights on healing and reconciliation in bringing together “the visible worlds of nature and community” with the “invisible forces of the ancestors and Spirit.” 2 Augsburg Now Mike Good ’71 Jeff Swenson ’79 Men’s hockey assistant coach Bruce Johnson ’68 will be honored for his lifetime contributions to the growth of amateur hockey. In April, he will receive the American Hockey Coaches Association’s John “Snooks” Kelley Founders Award. Augsburg Board of Regents chair Mike Good ’71 and athletic director Jeff Swenson ’79 both will be honored in April by the National Wrestling Hall of Fame, Minnesota Chapter. Good, who is CEO of Southeby’s International Realty, will receive the chapter’s Outstanding American award, given to wrestlers who have used the disciplines of the sport to launch notable careers. Swenson will receive the Lifetime Service award for his long career as a national champion student athlete, distinguished 25-year coach, and athletic director. Nicaragua In January, several regents, senior administrators, faculty, and staff traveled to Augsburg’s Center for Global Education study center in Managua, Nicaragua. Several Augsburg regents spoke about their experience at the Board of Regents meeting that followed. Here are excerpts from regents Jodi Harpstead and Rev. Norman Wahl. A potter demonstrates his craft in Masaya, a region in Nicaragua known for its handicrafts. Strong women, incredible stories “In Nicaragua, we met the woman who heads the feminist movement in the country, and she gave me a t-shirt that says, “Todos los derechos para todas las mujeres” (All the rights for all the women). We met so many amazing women, like the women at the spinning facility, and we heard so many incredible stories of strong, beautiful, courageous women working to turn around their families and their country. Women in Nicaragua are getting microloans. Women are running businesses. Women make up most of the student body of the college we visited. We heard about young women who had worked for Father Cardenal teaching literacy. The Contras began to kill them one at a time, hoping that the others would run away and return home. But they refused to go home, and they continued to work until the Contras gave up when they realized their violence wasn’t getting anywhere. We also met the woman who is the rector of UCA (Universidad Centroamericana), a large, private, Jesuit university. She is the only woman in the world who leads a Jesuit university. And, of course, Nicaragua has already had a woman as president of the country; they’re ahead of us in that respect. We learned just how many women there are across Nicaragua who are working to develop their country—in different places, in different roles, and in different levels of work—and it was incredibly inspiring to see how much they are willing to risk for freedom.” Neighbor to so many people “I did not know I was a neighbor to so many people in Nicaragua, including the great people that Augsburg has working there. I can’t say enough for the Center for Global Education, and while I’ve always been supportive of Augsburg, I will be a much more vocal advocate of that kind of global travel and the great things it can do. I did not know that I was a neighbor to a bunch of potters who live in Masaya, a place that we visited one day. As we came in, everybody was busy—the matriarch who ran the pottery place, which was a tworoom hut with an outdoor place for a kiln and a throwing wheel—everybody was busy. They were busy mixing the clay, they were throwing clay, they were painting, they were etching, they were polishing. Everybody was so busy. We went through the whole process. And then at the end we had an opportunity to buy some of the very fine wares that this little family company put together. And as I looked up from where we were making our exchanges with the people, the whole family was gathered in the doorway to look to see how their products were being bought and enjoyed by those people from the United States. And I thought, wow, this is really selling merchandise at its very best—from the people who make it to the people who will enjoy it. They really are our neighbors, and I did not know that until this trip.” JODI HARPSTEAD, BOARD OF REGENTS REV. NORMAN W. WAHL ’76, BOARD OF REGENTS Learning about war and peace in El Salvador In January, students traveled with Religion Professor Bev Stratton to El Salvador to study REL 480: Vocation and the Christian Faith. We met with several speakers and visited different places, such as churches, a university, and a rural community, in hopes of learning more about their culture, history, and people. We primarily learned about their civil war (19791992) and about the roles faith and identity play in the midst of social injustice, oppression, and conflict. … We visited a church where Archbishop Oscar Romero was assassinated in 1980. … He became increasingly involved with the people and underwent a personal transformation, becoming a leader and a voice for the people. He once said, “If they kill me I will arise in the Salvadoran people.” … We also heard from speakers who experienced the civil war. We visited Suchitoto and took boats to an area where a massacre had taken place. A man who had endured the massacre spoke to us about his experiences as a child during the war, losing his family at age 9 in the massacre; he recalled memories with startling clarity. Outside of hearing intense personal stories, we also visited places of national interest, such as the U.S. Embassy and the National Assembly building. … Senior Adam Jacobsen commented on how remarkable it was that the people were so open to us, as Americans, in spite of [the U.S. money and support for the Salvadoran government during the civil war]. “They really understood that our government’s decisions at the time were not our own.” These experiences serve as testimony to what all of us hopefully learned from this trip: people are people, and no matter creed, religion, or race, we are all united by a common thread of humanity. KATELYN DANELSKI ’14 Read Danelski’s full story and see photos from her study in El Salvador at www.augsburg.edu/now. Spring 2011 3 Every spring, as long as February snowstorms don’t threaten, Augsburg College welcomes the best and brightest prospective Auggies to participate in Scholarship Weekend. In addition to an opportunity to meet with their future classmates and professors, students interview or audition for the President’s Scholarships and for Fine Arts Scholarships. On Friday evening, students are treated to The Big Show—a spectacle unlike any other experience they will have as Auggies. It’s a chance for them to relax and for the College to showcase its less serious side. The evening features performances by Bob Groven, director of Augsburg’s Honors program; history and medieval studies professor Phil Adamo; and President Pribbenow himself. This special event is for the eyes of Scholarship Weekend guests only—few current students, faculty, or staff are treated to the performance. The rumor is that Bob Groven is surprisingly funny and that Phil Adamo puts on a fantastic show. 4 Augsburg Now THE Scholarship Weekend 2011 BIG SHOW Reviews for the show keep coming in… Augsburg Honors program director Bob Groven poses as Conan O’Brien in a postcard mailing to Scholarship Weekend attendees—a prelude to what the audience would experience at the event. “I THOUGHT I WAS GOING TO SEE CONAN AND THAT’S JUST NOT TRUE.” “BOB GROVEN DELIVERS ONE OF THE MOST MEMORABLE PERFORMANCES OF THE YEAR. I SHOULD KNOW. I AM BOB GROVEN.” —Bob Groven, Honors program director I Know I Can Yo Se Que Puedo WENDI WHEELER ’06 Admissions counselors Peter Schattauer (left) and Justin Nash (right) and junior Sam Waskosky (center) read to third-graders at Seward Montessori School. Courtesy photo Auggies help third-graders get ready for college It may seem that third grade is a bit too early to begin thinking about going to college. But Minneapolis Mayor R.T. Rybak doesn’t think so. Auggie Eagle doesn’t think so. And neither did the 2,700 Minneapolis third graders who participated in the “I Know I Can” College Awareness Day. On Thursday, Feb. 10, Augsburg elementary education majors joined staff from Augsburg’s Office of Admissions at Seward Montessori School. With Auggie Eagle also in attendance, they read to 60 students from the book, I Know I Can, written and illustrated by Wendy R. Rouillard. The book helps students begin thinking about how they can take steps, even in elementary school, to prepare themselves for college. By working on improving their skills and studying hard, the book suggests they can do anything they want when they grow up. Sam Waskosky, a junior education major and a Bonner Leader, read to one of the groups. Waskosky has been volunteering at Seward Montessori for several years. After she finished reading, she answered questions about Augsburg including what dorm life is like and whether or not college is “hard.” Auggies Devyn Pittorf and Alexis Stadstad also read to different groups. Brenda Hemmingsen, the Augsburg admissions visit coordinator, reminded students that part of getting into college involves getting good grades and having good attendance. She asked students to identify the subjects they would focus on, such as reading, math, and languages. The event, part of The Minneapolis Promise initiative designed to eliminate barriers to post-secondary education for Minneapolis youth, is a partnership of the Augsburg College Sabo Center for Citizenship and Learning, the Office of the Mayor (Minneapolis), RBC Wealth Management, Minneapolis Public Schools, the University of Minnesota, and the Minnesota College Access Network. Rod Gonzalez ’04 (right) and Mayor R.T. Rybak greeted children in the Windom Spanish Dual Immersion School on College Awareness Day. Rod Gonzalez, a native of Mexico, knows first hand the challenges of learning another language and succeeding well enough in school to get into college. He joined Minneapolis Mayor R.T. Rybak on “I Know I Can” College Awareness Day as they read to third-graders in both English and Spanish at the Windom Spanish Dual Immersion School. The 20 to 30 children in the class were about half native Spanish-speakers and half Spanish learners. Gonzalez spoke Spanish with them, telling them about how he had decided he wanted to study business and make decisions about college. Asking the children what they wanted to do when they grew up elicited a variety of responses. “There were some who wanted to be firefighters and police, and there was one girl who wanted to be a paleontologist,” Gonzalez says. “Obviously they had been thinking about what they wanted to do in the future.” After Rybak read I Know I Can to the class, he and Gonzalez introduced themselves to each of the children. “We reminded them that in order to go to college, they had to start early, study hard, and do their homework,” Gonzalez says. Gonzalez graduated from Augsburg in 2004 with a finance major and French minor, and he studied in Paris. With help from the Center for Service, Work, and Learning, he interviewed with RBC Wealth Management and began a 12-month rotational program internship, which helped him discover his interests within the company and match his skills to jobs. For the past seven years he has worked at RBC as a fixed income strategist. In January, Gonzalez was honored with the 2010 Irv Weiser Diversity Award, which recognizes and rewards an individual in the company who exhibits RBC’s commitment to diversity. He recently moved to Chicago to continue his work with RBC Wealth Management and to begin an MBA program at the University of Chicago. BETSEY NORGARD Spring 2011 5 ‘A Tale of Two Cities’—a Report on Civic Health Minneapolis-St. Paul enjoys the highest civic health of any metropolitan area in the country, according to a report released by Augsburg’s Center for Democracy and Citizenship (CDC). People in the Twin Cities are the most engaged in their communities—they are more likely to volunteer, to participate in community activities, to vote, and to engage with their neighbors. This healthy civic behavior correlates with greater economic well-being and individual health and happiness. The report, “A Tale of Two Cities,” is a joint project of the National Council on Citizenship (NCOC), the Florida Joint Center for Citizenship, and the CDC. It compares Minneapolis-St. Paul with Miami, which is shown to be the country’s least civically engaged city. While the two metro areas differ in many factors, the report indicates that these differences—including demographic measures of education and income—do not explain the disparities in their civic engagement. The report identifies several areas that contribute to the higher levels of Twin Cities’ civic engagement: more school–community collaboration and civic learning, stronger family and social networks, higher trust and diversity in government, and higher voting rates. In a commentary for the St. Paul Pioneer Press and a blog posting for the American Democracy Project, CDC director Harry Boyte draws parallels to the Civil Rights movement, recalling when the Southern Christian Leadership Conference was formed to spread a “culture of civic empowerment” and promote nonviolence and a desire to change. Just as “the Montgomery Way” helped spread democratic © All rights reserved by The Bob Graham Center Harry Boyte, director of Augsburg’s Center for Democracy and Citizenship and senior fellow at the Humphrey School of Public Affairs, participated in a project that compared levels of civic engagement in the Twin Cities and Miami. change in the South, Boyte believes in a Minnesota Way, which “teaches the skills of collaborative work across differences, connects institutions to the life of the communities, and generates a spirit of optimism that people can share their future together.” He points out that the “civic treasures” in Minnesota—including educational institutions like Augsburg that work across differences to foster a culture of civic empowerment—are critical factors in preparing students to discover how they can become agents of change to spread democratic hope and reform. Read more about “A Tale of Two Cities” and download a PDF of the report at www.ncoc.net/ttcrelease. Read Harry Boyte’s blog post at American Democracy Project at http://adpaascu.wordpress.com. BETSEY NORGARD Scholars at the Capitol On Monday, Feb. 28, 37 students and their faculty advisers from 14 colleges presented posters describing their research in various disciplines at the Minnesota State Capitol. From biology to psychology, engineering to English, this event showcased the breadth and quality of undergraduate research happening at Minnesota’s private colleges. Augsburg representatives were: Jessica Pfaffendorf and Professor James Vela-McConnell Facebook: Making the World More Connected? 6 Michael Wilson and Professor Eric Buffalohead The Impact of Intertribal Transmission on the Design Aesthetic of the Grass Dance Augsburg Now When President Paul Pribbenow came to Augsburg in 2006, he discovered a gap between the two sides of the small campus. “There was this natural divide… Melby and Kennedy [athletic facilities] on one side of campus, and, even though we’re a small campus, it seemed like the divide was both geographical and it was also symbolic in some ways—there wasn’t a connection between the two sides,” he says. His goal was to bridge the philosophical gap and to fully incorporate Augsburg’s intercollegiate athletic program into the broader campus community. In the pursuit, Augsburg has become an emerging leader in both the Minnesota Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (MIAC) and the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division III. Since 2007, Pribbenow has served as chairelect and chair of the MIAC Presidents Council, leading a move to redefine the institutional leadership within the conference. He has also worked to increase its influence within NCAA Division III, the largest of NCAA’s three divisions. “We … think that the presidents need to be involved in the strategy and priorities of the conference, making sure that our student-athletes are having the kinds of experiences we want them to have. That’s the best of the Division III ideal.” Augsburg’s influence will not end with Pribbenow’s term. Augsburg’s faculty athletic representative (FAR) to MIAC, Tracy Bibelnieks, associate professor of mathematics, will begin a two-year term as chair of the FAR group this August. Athletic director Jeff Swenson also serves as chair-elect of MIAC’s athletic directors and will assume a two-year role as committee chair in 2013. A faculty athletic representative is a liaison between the faculty and athletics and an advocate for student-athlete affairs, while also serving as part of the conference’s chain of legislation. Bibelnieks will also serve on the conference’s Executive Committee. “The Division III philosophy of giving students an opportunity to excel in both the academic and athletic aspects of their experience here requires that we be able to have an understanding across the campus of what that balance looks like for students. Certainly, faculty play a significant role,” Bibelnieks says. “There has to be a check and balance in how you keep those wants and needs in balance with each other, both in the academic realm and the athletic realm.” DON STONER serving Auggie athletics President Pribbenow finishes his term as chair of the MIAC Presidents Council as Professor Tracy Bibelnieks begins her term as chair of the faculty athletic representatives. Jeff Swenson (not pictured) is chairelect of MIAC’s athletic directors. Spring 2011 7 my Auggie experience Like father, like daughter—Katie and Karsten Nelson For Katie Nelson ’14, the Augsburg experience is just beginning. But for her dad, Rev. Karsten Nelson ’83, it is simply continuing. When it came time for Katie to consider college, of course her father suggested Augsburg. In fact, he had been grooming her to be an Auggie since she was a child. “We were planting the seed when she was three years old,” Karsten says, “by throwing Augsburg sweatshirts on her.” But Katie was reluctant to enroll at her dad’s alma mater. On the day she came to campus for a visit, it was a dreary fall day. “I was thinking, ‘You know, dad, this is clearly your school. How in the world would I ever make it mine?’” Karsten says he remembers that first visit. “I was excited to give her a ride back home and find out what she thought. When she said she didn’t think it could be her school, it was one of those disheartening times where you say, ‘Oh no.’” After visiting several other area schools, Katie decided on Augsburg in part because of the location and the strong sense of community, but also because of its disability programs and attention to access for disabled students. “I love that Augsburg has tunnels,” Katie says. She knew she wanted a small campus with a close-knit community, a diverse campus with many opportunities, and an open and friendly place. “And Augsburg was definitely it.” In her first year of college, Katie has certainly made Augsburg hers—making new friends, getting involved as a tutor for neighborhood Somali residents, and even hosting weekly Disney movie-watching parties in her dorm room. Karsten Nelson was a student at Augsburg in the early 1980s, studying communication. He went on to graduate school at Luther Seminary and currently serves as pastor at Our Redeemer Lutheran Church in St. Paul. He has also served on Augsburg’s alumni board. “There are a number of changes,” he says, noting that the buildings, the diversity of the student body, and the academic atmosphere are different than when he was in school. He also likes to tell Katie that the kitchen of the house where he used to live is in the same spot as the front doors of Oren Gateway Center. At the same time, Karsten says, a lot of things have stayed the same. “It has continued to be a place that has a great grounding of faith for people to explore and to wonder and to be challenged,” he says. Today Karsten is enjoying returning to Augsburg and seeing it through his daughter’s eyes. “It’s really fun to see Katie in her own setting with friends and connections.” He says that after one semester, Augsburg has exceeded his expectations in providing a sense of community, intellectual stimulation, and a foundation in faith for his 8 Augsburg Now daughter, “as well as her own growth and independence,” he adds. “Augsburg has drawn out more from Katie than we saw for her.” Katie receives services from Augsburg’s ACCESS Center, a unique program that provides services and support to students with documented physical disabilities. Her dad is grateful for the people who have provided assistance to her and allowed her to find independence. Katie says that not only the ACCESS staff but also her personal care attendants, her classmates, and people from the community are supporting her. “I can do almost anything on my own, and I have a lot more freedom to decide my own fate.” Both Katie and Karsten think of Augsburg as their home away from home. “It has been for me,” Karsten says, “and I think it is becoming that again.” WENDI WHEELER’06 auggie voices Vocation in an interfaith context I think about Augsburg’s mission statement and general education student learning outcomes—a lot. It makes sense. They shape and direct my work in and out of the classroom. At the same time, that very work, my colleagues, and my students inform my understanding of these statements and sustain my commitment to the realities and possibilities they create. At the center of my thought most recently is Augsburg’s call to intentional diversity coupled with our college-wide commitment to the theological exploration of vocation. All things considered, it was no surprise to me when I walked into my fall sections of REL 200 Christian Vocation and the Search for Meaning II and encountered a wide array of religious traditions and commitments among my students: Buddhist, Muslim, Christian (Catholic, ELCA-Lutheran, LCMSLutheran, United Methodist, Baptist, Presbyterian, and six or so other denominations), and students who identified as agnostic and atheistic. Some of them grew up in a tradition, others did not. And, at least six of my 55 students named the Shamanistic tradition as their own. In this rich and exciting pluralistic context, what am I called to do? How do I both express the depth and history and promise of the Christian, particularly Lutheran, understanding of vocation while affirming the presence and possibilities proffered by each student’s tradition? In the end, I invite students to conversation the only way I can—openly and honestly. I speak from my own particular context and perspective, and I invite them to do the same. I insert the voice of Dietrich Bonhoeffer—who describes vocation as responsible action in response to God—into the conversation, and they insert the voices of Dorothy Day and the Dalai Lama, for example. In the title of my course I add parentheses around the word “Christian” and, together, my students and I add the words “and justice”: REL 200 (Christian) Vocation and the Search for Meaning and Justice. In this rich and exciting pluralistic context, this is what I am called to do. LORI BRANDT HALE is associate professor of religion and director of general education. The above is adapted from devotional thoughts she presented at Augsburg‘s Leadership Council. Spring 2011 9 faith & values Talking about faith and values BY WENDI WHEELER ’06 While Chris Stedman ’08 was studying religion at Augsburg, he avoided engaging in any conversations about the subject of his beliefs, God, or religion. So how did a student who wouldn’t talk about religion manage to graduate, go on to get a master’s degree in religion, and become a prominent and respected voice in interfaith dialogue? He stopped talking about religion and started talking about values. “I came to Augsburg after a number of years of struggling with religious identity and sexual orientation,” says Stedman, “but I felt like ministry was what I was called to do.” After his first semester, Stedman declared himself an atheist, but he kept quiet about it and continued pursuing a major in religion. In fact, he says he developed a negative stance on religion and God. “I didn’t really want to engage with it on the real world level.” Stedman worked with Augsburg’s Campus Kitchen program serving meals at the Brian Coyle Center once a week during his first year of college and eventually became a member of the leadership team. The Coyle Center serves many of the Muslim residents in the Cedar-Riverside neighborhood. Even in this environment he was hesitant to engage in dialogue with anyone about faith or values. “One day I stayed a little late and had a conversation with a woman, and out of the blue she told me that sometimes she gets 10 Augsburg Now really nervous about going out in public because of her hijab [head scarf].” Normally, Stedman recalls, he would have ended the conversation, but he surprisingly found himself saying he could relate with the woman’s feelings because he felt nervous about going out in public with his boyfriend. “She asked what gives me strength and told me she got hers from Allah,” Stedman says. Later he realized the woman was inviting him into a conversation about values and about how they both lived in the world where people judged them, but he was unwilling at that time to talk more with her. It wasn’t until after graduation that Stedman began to open up about his values and beliefs. He was working in a group home for adults with developmental disabilities and had a particularly good relationship with one gentleman who often asked Stedman to read to him. One day, he recalls, the man asked Stedman to read from a Lutheran book of prayers. “My initial instinct was to say no,” Stedman says, but he read with the man. “I expected to feel either very irritated or to have a longing to return to something that was once so important to me, but I felt neither.” Instead, Stedman experienced relief and gratitude because he had shared in an important part of another person’s life. “We really lose out when we are afraid of those who have dif- CHRIS STEDMAN ’08 ferent beliefs from ours because it prevents us from engaging and developing meaningful relationships.” This experience served as the beginning of Stedman’s conversion from a silent religion major to a vocal member of the interfaith movement. Today he identifies as a secular humanist, reflecting a philosophy based on reason and compassion that does not include belief in a god. He writes often about seeking respect for religion among the community of nonbelievers, about identifying common values between believers and nonbelievers. Stedman went on to obtain a master’s degree in religion from the Meadville Lombard Theological School at the University of Chicago. In the summer following his first year of graduate school, he began an internship with the Interfaith Youth Core (IFYC), a program founded by Eboo Patel. IFYC works with young leaders, primarily college students, helping to promote religious pluralism through service to the community. Stedman is currently the Interfaith and Community Service Fellow for the Humanist Chaplaincy at Harvard University. He works with Greg Epstein, the humanist chaplain, and author of Good Without God. Their work focuses on helping students initiate and organize interfaith service projects and creating positive com- munities for the nonreligious. In addition, Stedman is managing director of State of Formation at the Journal of Inter-Religious Dialogue. He is also founder of the blog NonProphet Status, a columnist for the Huffington Post, and the youngest contributor to the Washington Post’s On Faith blog. Currently, he is writing a book for Beacon Press. His speaking engagements focus on fostering positive and productive dialogues between faith communities and the nonreligious. In the few years he has been doing interfaith work, Stedman says he has learned the value of working and talking with those whose beliefs may be different but whose values are similar to his own. His message to young people, particularly those who are dissatisfied with religion or who identify as nonbelievers, is to get involved. “There is value in organizing around common values and a lot to be gained from working with and learning from religious communities,” Stedman says. He encourages young people not to simply wipe their hands of involvement with religious people but to find communities where their needs can be met. “I look back on my time at Augsburg and realize I was doing interfaith work, but I left the discussion out of it. Now I am so excited to reclaim that missed opportunity.” Spring 2011 11 good coffee. good cause. Wouldn’t it be great if you could complete a project for your graduate school class, earn a passing grade, and help someone else in the process? That is what happened for a group of Augsburg MBA students. Their management consulting capstone—an online marketing research project—has the potential to help one incredible organization and at least 1,500 young people in Minneapolis. When it came time for Lynn Harris, Darren Chaloner, and Kelly Ambourn to choose an organization to work with for their MBA project, they wanted to move beyond the obvious choices. Harris says they wanted to help a local social enterprise, so she did a bit of research and found CityKid Java. CityKid Java is a local for-profit coffee company located off Lake Street in Minneapolis’ Phillips and Central neighborhoods. Every dollar of their profit is returned to the community, specifically to their non-profit partner, the Urban Ventures Leadership Foundation’s youth programs. Urban Ventures’ youth programs provide mentoring, athletic teams, camps, leadership experience, and after-school programs for at-risk inner city youth. In 2010, CityKid Java gave $80,000 to Urban Ventures. The team worked closely with MarkPeter Lundquist, CityKid’s founder and vice president of Urban Ventures; Jenifer 12 Augsburg Now BY WENDI WHEELER ’06 CityKid Java founder Mark-Peter Lundquist is passionate about coffee and kids. Augsburg MBA students completed an assignment and got much more than a grade out of it. They got some great coffee and the good feeling that comes from giving back. Hagness, general manager of CityKid; and board member Joyce Hansen. They asked what CityKid needed, outlined the deliverables, and went to work. Hagness says the team provided marketing research and recommended tools and resources that CityKid could begin using immediately. “When they came to us, we really gave them a blank slate in terms of the website. We thought we knew some things about our market and our customers, but they really gave us some great tools and resources,” Hagness says. Ultimately the team developed a Web 2.0 marketing plan including a social media strategy for increasing traffic and sales and building awareness on the CityKid website. Harris says she was excited to see how their ideas could help the organization. CityKid took the team’s information, moved ahead with their recommendations, and even dedicated an employee as their “chief listening officer” to focus on social media. Harris says CityKid also invited the team back to share feedback and the action plan they created based on the team’s work. “We didn’t see this as just a project,” Harris says. “We really took this to heart.” (Photo above) CityKid Java’s Lindquist and general manager Jenifer Hagness (on right) talk with MBA students Darren Chaloner and Lynn Harris (on left) at the skatebard ramp at CityKid’s rec center. Spring 2011 13 coffee. good cause. good Throughout the six-month project, Lundquist and Hagness treated the MBA group as a part of their team. “They were very open to questions and made our job a thousand times easier,” says Chaloner. The students were invited to sit in on board meetings and tour Urban Ventures’ facilities. Harris says she even joined Lundquist and Hagness at a local roasters “cupping” experience. This project, however, had a much greater return on investment for the students. In addition to gaining consulting experience and practical application of marketing research principles, the team had an opportunity to give back to their community. They bought the coffee, of course, but they also shared the story of CityKid Java with their classmates, family, and friends. “You can’t work with CityKid Java and not tell the story,” Chaloner says. So that is what Harris and Chaloner have continued to do even after their project was complete—tell the story of CityKid Java. It’s one of good coffee for a good cause and the opportunity to get a good grade while working with great people. world setting value The courses in the Augsburg MBA program are designed to prepare students with content knowledge and theoretical application. The MBA consulting project puts this into practice in a real-world setting. To be successful in the management consulting project, students have to crystallize their knowledge into the real demands and needs of an existing for-profit, notfor-profit, or community service organization—they must use their education to be of service to an organization. This is where their learning becomes real, and of real value, in the world. Students have worked with a broad spectrum of companies from Fortune 100 companies to much smaller organizations such as local theaters and charter schools to individual entrepreneurs starting a company. About half of the recent projects have been with local nonprofits that serve the local communitites within Minneapolis and St. Paul. 14 Augsburg Now Lynn Harris and Darren Chaloner with Kelly Ambourn (not pictured) continue to share the CityKid Java story—and drink their great coffee! calculus and so much more BY BETSEY NORGARD A dozen or so first-year students in groups of threes and fours are talking, scribbling, erasing, and rewriting equations on the board. The professor watches and offers hints as needed. Two student leaders wander around, pausing to respond to questions or give a word of praise. Sometimes students work at tables, but rarely do they listen to a lecture. Welcome to Calculus Workshop, a twice-weekly elective workshop for students enrolled in Calculus I and II. Professor Rebekah Dupont is the Augsburg coordinator of the North Star STEM Alliance, a program that seeks to increase the number of minority students who complete degrees in STEM—science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. She developed Calculus Workshop as a strategy to help these students succeed in collegelevel mathematics courses. Spring 2011 15 The workshop particularly targets the needs of underrepresented minorities, firstgeneration college students, and women in majors that require calculus, but any student taking Calculus I or II who is interested in working collaboratively and setting high performance standards is welcomed. The first workshop began as a pilot in fall and spring last year, starting with 12 students. At the end of spring semester, the results were impressive. The mostly-minority students in the workshop achieved a 0.6 higher grade point average (GPA) than the Calculus I and II students not in the workshop, despite having entered college with an overall lower average ACT score and GPA. So, now in its second year, Calculus Workshop is an official department offering. Just why is it so successful? To begin with, Dupont grounds it in the research and best practices developed for STEM students participating in workshops linked to academic courses. She designed the workshop for students to preview the material to be presented in their calculus class, reinforce it, and synthesize it by working together to solve problems. The intent of the workshop is not remedial, but to promote high levels of academic excellence, which also promotes retention. Its major objective is to build community and collaboration among stu- Professor Rebekah Dupont coaches the students in Calculus Workshop. The North Star STEM Alliance is … A program funded by the National Science Foundation (NSF), through the Louis Stokes Alliance for Minority Participation (LSAMP). • The Minnesota North Star STEM Alliance is a partnership of 16 higher education institutions plus the Science Museum of Minnesota and the Minnesota High Tech Association. • Its goal is to double the number of minority students receiving bachelor’s degrees in STEM in a five-year period. • Its objectives are to provide support, tutoring, supplemental instruction; engage students through faculty mentorship and research; explore career directions; and build community among students. 16 Augsburg Now dents, who, in this case, are mostly in their first year. Not your classroom calculus Jazmine Darden took the pilot Calculus Workshop last year and credits it in large part for the grade she received in Calculus I. One factor for her was that the workshop is hands-on, not class lectures. “Workshop teaches in a different manner … There are many days that we, the students, are up at the chalkboard solving problems,” says Darden. “Or other times we are given worksheets and work in small groups … Workshop is a very team-oriented and group-oriented environment.” Darden also finds the workshop a comfortable environment. “Workshop is very diverse,” she continues. “It’s nice to walk into Workshop and see other students just like me. It gives us all an extra push to strive for success.” Mathematics + opportunities In addition to building community, the workshop has emerged as an effective means for Dupont to connect first-year students with leadership, academic, and research opportunities. In some cases, these are opportunities such as study abroad and Fulbright awards that wouldn’t be familiar to students whose parents have not attended college. “We have so many programs to support and help students, but they have to get connected to them,” Dupont says. “They have to hear about these opportunities and then start thinking about them.” Several of last year’s students have become McNair Scholars, which provides them summer research and ongoing support to apply to graduate school. Some have joined the North Star STEM program and work closely with Dupont. It was in this workshop where sophomore Fred Vedasto heard about the Minneapolis schools’ summer Guys In Science and Engineering (GISE) program, which brings middle-school boys to Augsburg for hands-on science exploration, with Augsburg students hired as mentors. “It was all about the kids for me,” Vedasto says. He loved feeling like a “big brother” while helping teach them science— it meant letting them have some fun and fool around, but also making sure they got the work done. Workshop big brothers and sisters Two student mentors assist Dupont in the workshop. These students also offer help beyond calculus. One of last year’s mentors, Research— jumping right in Gaby Hamerlinck, was a senior biology and math major. She says that she and junior Tom Lopez, another mentor, helped students prepare for exams, learn how to approach their professors, and answer questions about college life. “There were a few student-athletes in the group who did not think that a math major and collegiate sports could work in their schedule,” Hamerlinck says. “But being a multi-sport athlete as well, I was able to help them with time management, which allowed them to succeed on and off the field.” This year’s student mentors are Darden and Trevor Rodriguez Sotelo, both sophomores and workshop students from last year. They are closer in age to the workshop students and believe this makes a difference in connecting with their mentees around campus, sometimes eating and studying together. “Workshop has allowed me to build relationships with many first-year students in and out of the classroom,” says Darden. “I don’t like to be called a tutor to these students because I have built a relationship that is so much more.” “As a student leader, it’s important to be a positive role model in the classroom,” says Rodriguez Sotelo. “… but my biggest challenge has been how to be a positive role model of life. … I hope that if I can teach them a thing or two about schoolwork and also about everyday life, they will have a more enjoyable experience throughout their college career.” Students in the workshop are expected to set high goals for themselves. While first-year students do not usually begin research in their first year, Dupont seeks funding and encourages them to connect with faculty about research opportunities. Sometimes it takes a little push from Dupont—which is how Vedasto got into his physics research project last spring. “She was asking,” he says, “but it wasn’t a question.” With NASA funding, physics professor David Murr, junior Chris Woehle, and Vedasto developed a payload of instruments to measure light that was launched in a rocket 40 miles high as part of a nine-college project. Vedasto determined the rocket’s navigation using math calculations. He plans to continue research with Murr again this summer. Vedasto says the research helped him figure out his interests. “I always thought I wanted to be an electrical engineer, and my research confirmed this,” he says. “It was fun, interesting, and helped me get a feel for what I wanted to do.” Last spring, Dupont also helped Hamerlinck and first-year student Kayla Johnson secure funding for research with mathematics professor John Zobitz, who had taught calculus to both of them. They studied the spread of the flu through a contained population of Augsburg day students. With the project, Hamerlinck and Johnson had to face the challenges of learning how to present their research at poster sessions, which they did at three events in late spring. “It was a great experience, and I wish I had been able to do it sooner in my career at Augsburg,” Hamerlinck says. “But FRED VEDASTO ’13 [About getting involved in research] “Professor Dupont was asking us, but it wasn’t a question.” Spring 2011 17 KAYLA JOHNSON ’13 “I’m so glad I filled out that application for Workshop … Isn’t it crazy how one choice can make such a huge impact on someone’s life?” I’m so proud of Kayla for getting it done her freshman year!” Working together with Hamerlinck was great for Johnson. “Gaby pushed me, helping me with study skills, with balancing my time, and mainly showing me that I could do it.” This combination of faculty, upper-level student, and first-year student research is a nontraditional model, but proving especially important to increase the participation of underrepresented groups in mathematics, Zobitz says. “Gaby gave Kayla some helpful advice about courses and navigating a four-year degree that I (as her adviser) could not.” What does Zobitz see the students gain from the research experience? “The first-year students see a direct connection between their coursework and research topics,” he says. “For Kayla, I tried to give specific readings commensurate with her skills, typically tied to her calculus textbook.” “The upper-level students have an opportunity for reinforcement of previouslylearned skills by having to communicate with younger students,” continues Zobitz. “More importantly, this is an opportunity for mentorship and collaboration. … It was important to foster a sense of community 18 Augsburg Now that this is a shared, collaborative endeavor, rather than each person pursuing their own individual research.” Especially exciting for Dupont last summer was to secure research spots for all six of the North Star STEM workshop students by the end of their first year. An incredibly valuable experience Students have high regard for Calculus Workshop, even those who may have signed on reluctantly because of the extra time involved. One student, with a heavy work schedule in addition to classes, found out how valuable the workshop could be when his Calculus I grade improved from a failing first test to a score in the 90s on a subsequent one. Dupont enjoys watching the growth of the students. “At the beginning, going to the board was so hard for them,” she says. “They’re so smart and have ideas in their head, but they fear they’re wrong. For them, it’s about gaining the confidence to be on their feet and get to the point where they want to know how to fix what they do wrong and take that understanding to the next level.” Hamerlinck, who is now working toward a PhD in evolutionary biology on a scholarship at the University of Iowa, agrees: “The best part for me was watching the students grow more confident in themselves and their academic skills.” For Kirubel Gezehegn, a current student in the workshop who graduated from British schools in Zimbabwe, the transition to American college life was difficult. “The workshop prepared me for learning about American education, seeing that processes here are different, and it helped my understanding.” He welcomes the challenges—“I don’t want to breeze through and think about what I could have done with the time.” It’s clear, however, among all students, that a key to much of the workshop success has been the leadership of Dupont, whom Vedasto refers to as “the godmother of our class.” Darden says, “I am so thankful for all the opportunities I have been given in the last couple of years due to North Star STEM, Rebekah Dupont, and my upper-class mentors.” She says that there’s nothing she would rather do than “give back and try my best to give these opportunities to other students.” In an e-mail to Dupont, Johnson writes, “Without your help and my experience in Workshop, I would have missed out on so many opportunities.” She continues, “I’m so glad I said ‘why not?’ and filled out that application for Workshop. … Isn’t it crazy how one choice can make such a huge impact on someone’s life?” Student research at Augsburg It’s not uncommon to associate “research” with a scientific laboratory, microscopes, and tiny glass slides smeared with cells. But research at Augsburg is more than Bunsen burners and petri dishes. Every year students in the natural and social sciences, the humanities, and the arts conduct intensive 10-week summer projects as well as ongoing projects throughout the year. Last summer alone, students wrote music and screenplays, tested the water quality in Rice Creek, studied aggression in Girl Scouts, produced wearable art, and tried to find a body mass index for dogs—among other things. Student research is funded from a variety of sources: grants provided by the Office of Undergraduate Research and Graduate Opportunity (URGO), the McNair Scholars program, a NASA Space Physics grant, the Northstar STEM Alliance, and Augsburg donors. The funds not only allow students to focus on their projects for 40 hours a week in the summer but also provide opportunities for them to travel to national conferences to present their work. Here we highlight the work of six outstanding Augsburg undergraduates—students whom we may see winning awards or publishing scholarly journal articles in the future. To meet some of these student researchers and many others, attend Zyzzogeton, Augsburg’s annual celebration of academic and artistic student achievement. The spring 2011 Zyzzogeton student research poster session will be held Wednesday, April 13 from 3-5 p.m. in the Oren Gateway Center atrium. BY WENDI WHEELER ’06 To watch videos of four other students who spent last summer researching algae, biodiesel, dogs, and songwriting, go to www.augsburg.edu/now justin ingebretson The Effect of Dopaminergic Neurotoxins on Daphnia magna Swimming Behavior Faculty adviser, Matt Beckman Justin Ingebretson spent a good deal of his summer shooting video of swimming water fleas. Actually, he was filming perturbed water fleas, also known as Daphnia magna. The purpose was to understand the role that certain neurotoxins have in motor behavior, with applications for humans suffering from disorders like Parkinson’s disease and multiple sclerosis. Ingebretson presented his research at the national conference of the Annual Society for Neuroscience, where he says he was able to hold his head high next to students from multimillion-dollar research institutions. A member of the recovery community who at one time did not see college in his future, this promising scientist says, “I feel honored that the faculty and this college entrusted me to represent them.” 20 Augsburg Now becky shaheen Art Song: Poetry into Music Faculty adviser, Sonja Thompson You wouldn’t think a recipe or a letter to Miss Manners would make for a good song, but Becky Shaheen ’11 knows otherwise. A talented musician and composer in her own right, Shaheen researched the relationship between text and music using the art song, a classical form that incorporates piano and voice. She analyzed the work of different composers and wrote seven songs, one for each of seven composer-poet teams. Shaheen’s project emphasizes that research is not only for students in the sciences. “This project was created exclusively by me and really fed my passions,” she says. In addition to funding her summer research, the URGO program also provided funds for Shaheen to travel to the Vancouver International Song Institute where she workshopped her pieces with singers and composers. Spring 2011 21 tom lopez Construction of a Magnetic Needle Viscometer for Use in Research and Undergraduate Education Faculty adviser, Benjamin Stottrup Three years ago Tom Lopez, then a first-year mathematics and physics major, went to Google’s scholar database and typed the words “magnetic lipids.” No, these aren’t typical search terms for the average student, but Lopez isn’t the average student. A former construction foreman, Lopez entered Augsburg at the age of 27. He became interested in research after completing a project for his general physics course and meeting professor Ben Stottrup. Since that first summer, Lopez has had his research fully funded through the McNair program, a NASA Space Physics grant, the Computational Science Training for Undergraduates in the Mathematical Sciences (CSUMS), and the North Star STEM Alliance. He’s applied to graduate school and hopes one day to return to the classroom as a professor. “I want to be able to mentor students and introduce them to opportunities like the ones I have had at Augsburg,” he says. 22 Augsburg Now lucreshia grant Hair Is, Hair Ain’t: Black Women and the Meaning of Their Hair Faculty adviser, Jessica Nathanson When Lucreshia Grant shaved her head a couple of years ago, her friends started calling her “Mikey” and asking if she was going through some kind of phase. Then when she began growing dreadlocks, they asked if she was still going to be able to get a job after college. All this caused Grant to ask, “What does my hair mean?” Augsburg’s McNair research program allowed her to ask this same question of several black women. She learned that hair shapes women’s identities as well as their vocabularies, and she explored how black women’s attempts to change their hair were both an assimilation of a white standard of beauty as well as an exploration of the versatility of black hair. A sociology and psychology major with a minor in women’s studies, Grant hopes she can continue this research one day in graduate school. Spring 2011 23 walker krepps Quantitative EEG as a Bio-Marker for Addiction Risk Faculty adviser, Henry Yoon Sometimes research is boring. Even research that results in a new discovery can start out with some mundane tasks. But every once in a while, a student is able to be involved in research that has the potential to break new ground in its field. Such is the case with Walker Krepps and his work with psychology professor Henry Yoon. They have connected with a University of Minnesota team to examine brain waves that may predict the tendency toward addictive behavior in children of alcoholic and addict parents. What makes this so exciting for Krepps is the opportunity to conduct tests on a “perfect sample,” namely students in Augsburg’s StepUP® residential recovery community. 24 Augsburg Now kathleen watson The Dramaturgical Process in Context: Sketches of Eastern European Jews at the Turn of the Century Faculty adviser, Sarah Myers Theatre-goers have undoubtedly seen the listing of a “dramaturg” in the playbill at their local playhouse and wondered what it meant. Kathleen Watson wondered, too, and spent the first few days of her research project trying to figure out how to explain it. In the case of her project, Watson worked with theatre professor Sarah Myers to provide the historical and creative research for Myers’ play based on her family history. Watson immersed herself in Jewish culture and history, learning about Jews who entered the U.S. through Galveston, Tex., reading letters and looking at photos found in Myers’ grandmother’s attic, and even becoming a fan of klezmer music. “I learned some naughty words in Yiddish, too,” she says. Watson plans to attend graduate school for dramaturgy. “It gets under my skin. I could do it all day, every day.” And now she can explain what it is as well. Spring 2011 25 International Programs Photo Contest 3 explore experience 26 challenge discover Augsburg Now Photojournalism 1 First place “Comfort Women Protest” Tracy Olsen South Korea 2 Second place “Love and Heineken” Nora Dahlberg France 3 Third place “La Cueca” Erika Osterbur Chile Also winner of the People’s Choice Award 1 2 Landscape/Cityscape 1 First place “Seoul from Namsan Tower” Tracy Olsen South Korea 2 Second place “Nueva Esperanza” Katherine Walker El Salvador 3 Third place “Daybreak” Kate Woolever Thailand 2 3 1 Spring 2011 27 Portrait 1 First place “Bird Man” Nora Dahlberg France 3 Third place “A Blessing” Jeffrey Xiong Thailand 2 Second place “Gazing toward Change” Chelsie Duckworth Mexico 1 2009-10 Study Abroad by the Numbers 274 Augsburg students studied abroad 66% female and 34% male 14 Augsburg faculty-led programs 47% Studied in Latin America and the Caribbean 9% 2 Studied in Asia 31% Studied in Europe 11% Increase in students studying abroad from 2008-09 to 2009-10 28 Augsburg Now 3 auggie alumni news From the Alumni Board president … Dear fellow alumni, ransition takes many forms, and occurs at many points throughout our lives. Important to living with transition is our continued growth—growth through education, growth through volunteer work, or growth through professional development—and education is one of the many ways to spark that growth in our lives. Consider how you can embrace transition through learning—especially in a rich learning environment like the one at Augsburg College. Learning and enlightenment open doors of opportunity that you can only imagine—your first job, a promotion, or reflection on a satisfying career. Each has rewards that will benefit both you and the people with whom you interact. Continuing your education can provide a keen awareness in an ever-changing world, and can enable you to engage the world in a meaningful way, as well as adapt to new experiences and change more readily. Transition is a normal part of life! Why not consider the richness of opportunities to embrace transition by becoming an active alumnus/a, or by re-engaging with Augsburg? T JOHN STADLER ’07 MAL PRESIDENT OF THE ALUMNI ASSOCIATION P.S. The Alumni Board is looking for a few new leaders! To receive more information about becoming a member of this dynamic group, contact the Office of Alumni and Constituent Relations at alumni@augsburg.edu or 612-330-1085. Alumni Board 2010-11 Front row (left to right): John Stadler ’07 MAL, Chris Hallin ’88, Maggie Tatton ’01, Misti Allen Binsfeld ’93; Back row (left to right): Jennifer M. Carlson ’91; Chad Darr ’04; Sharon Mercill ’09; Nancy Nordlund ’91, ’07 MAL; Holly Ebnet Knutson ’03, ’07 MBA; Sarah Grans ’01; Daniel Hickle ’95; Chris Ascher ’81; Michael Loney ’03 Save the Date! Homecoming 2011 October 17–23, 2011 Reunion Classes 50th reunion—1961 40th reunion—1971 25th reunion—1986 10th reunion—2001 If you would like to help make your reunion a success, contact the Office of Alumni and Constituent Relations at 612-330-1085 or alumni@augsburg.edu. Go to www.augsburg.edu/homecoming for updates and reunion information. Spring 2011 29 auggie alumni news Young Alumni Council Estate sales group: Outreach + service = tangible outcomes A little history: The Augsburg College Associates began to conduct estate sales in 1996— 15 years ago. However, the idea of raising funds to help with College projects began with the founding of the Augsburg College Associates in 1984-85. The first very large and challenging project was funding a new pipe organ for Hoversten Chapel in the new Foss Center. The Associates held one gigantic “Trash and Treasures” sale in Melby Hall. It was a huge success and continued to be held each fall until the old music hall was razed and the Associates’ storage space was no longer available. Eager to find a new source of funds, the group began conducting estate sales in 1996. Coordination, leadership, and expertise over the years have been provided by scores of loyal, energetic volunteers. The Augsburg Associates have conducted a total of 62 sales through 2010, earning approximately $136,000, which has helped fund campus renovations, support for new buildings, and the establishment of several scholarships. The Augsburg Associates is a people-powered organization in need of constant refueling. The group is as strong as its numbers. Imagine the possibilities if they could increase the number of Associates and friends who would participate in this outreach and income-producing program. Contact Kate Anderson at 651-645-3262 or andersoc@visi.com if you are willing to be added to the list of estate sales associates. There is another way you can help that does not involve a commitment of time—help pass the word to your friends and neighbors about the Augsburg Associates’ estate sale services. Potential clients should contact the Office of Alumni and Constituent Relations at 612-330-1085. The Young Alumni Council is busy planning great events for Summer 2011. Join the Augsburg College Young Alumni group on Facebook and check the alumni calendar for a full schedule. Front row (left to right): Cory Allen ’07, John MacCormick ’10, Lauren Back ’08, Teresa Barnhill ’08, Robert Wagner ’02, Ali Fitzpatrick ’11; Back row (left to right): Mark Matzek ’05, Maria Helgerson ’07, Jennifer Oliver ’07, Nick Slack ’02, Cody Tresselt-Warren ’09, David Lange ’08, Nick Swanson ’09, Megan Benrud ’10, Charles Sletten ’09, Beth Franklin ’09, Missy Motl ’06, Julia Mensing ’00, ’07 MBA Enjoy recordings of Augsburg’s music 2010 Advent Vespers service—music, liturgy, and hymns A two-disc set is $25. To order, go to www.augsburg.edu/vespers. Augsburg Choir Legacy Recordings, 1949–1979 Three boxed sets, each with five CDs, plus a monograph about the life and career of Leland B. Sateren with each order: • From Opseth to Sateren (1949–1962) • Sateren Intermezzo (1964–1972) • Sateren Finale (1972–1979) Cost: $49 per box (5 CDs); $135 for all three sets (15 CDs), plus shipping and handling. To order, go to www.augsburg.edu/music/saterenCD.html or call the Augsburg College Bookstore at 612-359-6491. Watch for these— coming later this spring! The Augsburg Choir, “Stay with Us” Augsburg Jazz, Volume II My Song in 1 1 1 17 The 31st An nual Augsburg 30 Augsburg Now the Night College Adven t Vespers Alumni artists— call for submissions auggies VOLUNTEER Augsburg Alumni Juried Show 2011 The Augsburg art galleries are pleased to announce an exciting opportunity for alumni to show their artwork in a juried exhibition featured in both the Gage Family Art Gallery and Christensen Center Art Gallery opening in early August. Each artist may submit up to three images. The submission deadline is June 24; notifications of acceptance will be sent out July 12. For more information about the Augsburg Alumni Juried Show, go to www.augsburg.edu/galleries or e-mail gallery@augsburg.edu. Feed My Starving Children In mid-January, 75 Augsburg volunteers of all ages gathered in Coon Rapids to work together with other volunteers to package meals for hungry children around the world. During the session, more than 22,000 meals were packaged, which would be made available through the Feed My Starving Children program. Thank you to all who participated in this effort, once again demonstrating the difference alumni continue to make living out the values gained as Augsburg students, giving back and helping others. Called to Lead: An invitation If you wonder where you are going in your professional and personal life and feel you could be doing something more significant, you are invited to explore “Called to Lead,” a four-week intensive experience for Augsburg alumni and friends of the College. Explore the challenges of leadership, the nature of servant leadership, the centered life, seeing things whole, and development of your strategic game plan. Facilitators include Professors Tom Morgan, Jack Fortin, and Norma Noonan. The workshop is co-sponsored by the Augsburg Center for Faith and Learning and the Center for Leadership Studies. Spend four spring mornings before work—April 26 and May 3, 10, and 17 from 7:30 to 9 a.m.—and emerge energized and renewed for new challenges in your life. For more information and an application, contact Norma Noonan at noonan@augsburg.edu. The total cost is $200, which includes books, weekly breakfasts, and all sessions. Registration closes April 11. Above left: Jennifer Oliver ’07 and Carolyn Mollner ’07 Left: Amy Forsberg ’95 and her children, Aubrey and Olin. A journey to the Holy Land with Professor Philip A. Quanbeck II Encounter the geography, places, and people of the Holy Land. Visit Jerusalem, Bethlehem, Caesarea, Capernaum, Sea of Galilee, Dead Sea, and much more on a journey departing in early January 2012. Woven into the itinerary are opportunities to share in dialogue with local community leaders. Return home with a broader and deeper understanding of a land that is holy for the world’s three monotheistic religions. The cost for this comprehensive program includes airfare from the Twin Cities and a carefully planned and paced schedule of activities The Mount of Beatitudes is topped by a Catholic chapel built by the Franciscan Sisters. and site visits—along with select accommodations, most meals, special educational programming, and a licensed guide throughout. To receive further information as details are finalized, contact Alumni Relations at alumni@augsburg.edu or 612-330-1085. Spring 2011 31 alumni class notes Frank Ario was featured on 50KARE-11 TV in Minneapolis in December, recalling his experience fighting in a tank batallion in Europe during the Battle of the Bulge in 1944. He taught economics and philosophy at Washburn High School for 30 years, and in retirement he has volunteered at the Veterans Hospital in Minneapolis. He and Georgette (Lanes) ’50 have been married for more than 60 years. to share their building, including a Mennonite congregation and a First Nations worship center. Douglas Emerson was honored 66on January 15 as the Man of the Year by the San Benito County (Calif.) Chamber of Commerce. Since 2005 he has served as city councilman and in 2008 became mayor of Hollister, Calif. Nancy Brown-Koeller, received Margaret “Grit” Youngquist was in Marketing Awards given to the North American marketing organization at Kimberly-Clark Corp. She led a team that received the award for a workshop to educate about the challenges senior citizens face when shopping or using products or services. It was featured in the Wall Street Journal business section in September 2009. Hubbard Maternal and Child Health Leadership Award from the Minnesota Department of Health that recognizes leadership and achievements in promoting good health for mothers, children, and youth. She is the adolescent health and healthy youth development coordinator for the Ramsey County Public Health Department. Richard Pearson was elected in November to the board of directors of North American State Bank of Willmar, Belgrade, and Elrose. He is now retired, after a 34-year career in senior financial positions in the Minneapolis-St. Paul area. 84ate vice president of develop- 74one of the seven 2010 Legacy 79awarded the 21st annual Betty Susan Nelson, Moline, Ill., re- Dr. Leland Fairbanks, Tempe, Ariz., in his retirement from the Indian Health Service and U.S. Public Health Service, is actively advocating a ban on smoking in tribal casinos. In 1983 he succeeded in passing a smoking ban at the Indian Health Service center in Phoenix, the first in the country at a health institution. 53 Lute Olson gave a speech in September in Minot, N.D., at a joint meeting of Minot service clubs as he was inducted into the Scandinavian-American Hall of Fame. 56 Rev. Ron Nelson, Winnipeg, 62Manitoba, is pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church, which opened its doors 11 years ago to serve the community, inviting a variety of ministries 67tired from Davenport (Iowa) Schools in June, where she was an elementary special education teacher. She coached Iowa’s 2010 Special Olympics National Games Tennis Team, July 17–24, in Lincoln, Neb., where the team played with professional tennis player Andy Roddick. Don Lenzen will retire on June 30 after 13 years as elementary school principal in the Pequot Lakes School District. He has been in education for 42 years. 69 Jerry Johnson, Bellingham, 70Wash., teaches mathematics at Western Washington University and was awarded the Peter J. Elich Excellence in Teaching Award. He was lauded for “drawing upon realworld experiences to illustrate math concepts and reach students with a variety of learning styles.” Catherine (Mork) 48Kordahl, Mora, Minn., shared this photo from 1946, standing with her friends in front of Old Main. Lars Walker is librarian and bookstore manager for the schools of the Association of Free Lutheran Congregations in Plymouth, Minn. He is the author of several published fantasy novels, the latest of which is West Oversea, a Norse saga of mystery, adventure, and faith. Anne (Mollison) Klus is presi- 76dent and CEO of Trinity Uni- forms that will begin supplying uniforms for 51,000 healthcare providers around the country. She also is a music teacher and choir director at St. Paul Academy and Summit School. Ruth (Dahlof) Vedvik is a principal at Hardwick-Day, Inc., and has written The Financial Aid Handbook, with co-author and former Augsburg director of admissions Carol Stack. The book will be released in April by Career Press and is already online at Amazon and elsewhere. Bonnie (Lamon) Moren is an 78adapted physical education teacher/lead for Bloomington Schools. She recently received the Allen Burton Developmental Adapted Physical Education Award for outstanding efforts and contributions given to students with disabilities in the area of developmental adapted physical education by a teacher of elementary, secondary, or higher education. She has been teaching for 31 years. 32 Augsburg Now Carmela (Brown) Kranz, associ- ment of the Minnesota Medical Foundation in Minneapolis, received the 2010 Distinguished Service Award from District V of the Council for Advancement and Support of Education (CASE), its top volunteer recognition for her 20 years of service. Tim Andrew was included on 88the second annual list of Top Lawyers 2010, as chosen by their peers, in Duluth-Superior Magazine. His firm, Andrew & Bransky PA, represents labor unions and employee benefit plans in Northeastern Minnesota. Karen Reed, Program III direc- 90tor at Coalinga State Hospital in Coalinga, Calif., and other music therapists celebrated 60 years of music therapy in the “Rock out the past … Roll into the future.” Earlier, in October, her staff honored her with an engraved silver journal on Bosses Day. Lisa Dietz received a 2010 Proj- 91ect Grant for Emerging Artists with Disabilities through VSA Minnesota. She is a fiber artist who has had a number of exhibitions and won prizes at the Minnesota State Fair for several years. Katie Knutson received a 2009-10 Upper Midwest Regional Emmy for part of WCCO’s promotion and marketing team in the one-time event sports category. Since June she has worked as sales and marketing director at Chanhassen Dinner Theatre. Anthony Patton has a new novel published, Treaty Violation, exploring murder and conspiracy in the spy world. Holly (Kolander) McCune, a 96former Minnesota Vikings Mary Lou (Mortensen) Nelson was awarded the 2010 Honorary Award, given by the Vincent L. Hawkinson Foundation for Peace and Justice, recognizing her many years of leadership with the United Nations Association. 45 Michelle (Wincell) and Bill 91Nielsen, Mendota Heights, Minn., welcomed baby Josephine May on October 9. She joins big sister Lena Kay, 3 1/2. Jennifer (Crego) and Chad Carls, Oak Grove, Minn., welcomed the birth cheerleader and 1998 Pro Bowl cheerleader, was recently interviewed for the “Where are they now?” magazine article about former NFL cheerleaders and players. She currently lives in Scottsdale, Ariz., with her husband and twin daughters and teaches Spanish part time. She and her daughters are also featured on pool product packages and boxes for Leslie’s Swimming Pool Supplies stores nationwide. Jackie (Heyda) and Joshua Ey- Mary Elizabeth (Brooks) and 98Jon Wroge, Norwood Young America, Minn., welcomed their beautiful and cherished gift, Aubry Ann, in April 2010. She joins big sisters Hannah and Kylie and big brother Cole. Leah (Spafford) and Taher 00of their fifth son, Isaac Victor, on March 24, 2010, who joins big broth- 02berg welcomed the birth of 02Omar, Brooklyn Center, Minn., ers Tommy, 8; Andrew, 7; Brock, 5; and Nick, 3. Chad teaches physics and chemistry in Anoka Hennepin District 11, and Jennifer is currently home with the boys. their daughter, Lydia Louise, on January 11. welcomed their son, Khalil Nur, home from Ethiopia. Jeff Ronneberg, in his second year as superintendent of the Spring Lake Park school district, was elected in the fall to the board of Learning Forward, a 13,000-member organization based in Oxford, Ohio. Trang Thanh Nguyen and her husband, Osman, welcomed their son, Noah, on Sept. 2, 2009, two weeks overdue. Trang and Osman met while she was pursuing her master’s degree in intercultural relations at Lesley University, and they were married five years later. Currently, Trang is a senior assistant director for multicultural recruitment at Wheaton College (Mass.), and Osman works as a bank examiner for the U.S. Treasury Department. They plan to return to Minnesota this year to be closer to family. 03estate for five years and re- Linda (Moffat) Sauber was ap- 94pointed director of client portfo- Judy Workman is a physician 98assistant at the Prior Lake Park Nicollet Clinic. Aaron Gabriel received a 2010 99Ivey Award in Minneapolis for his musical score for Madame Majesta’s Miracle Medicine Show. lio management services at Advantus Capital Management in St. Paul. Kjirsten Hoversten married Chris Probst on August 28. Nick Gruidl is a managing director in McGladrey’s Corporate Tax and Transactions practice and was a presenter on tax issues in a webinar for the Bureau of National Affairs, Inc., in October. Cheri Johnson has won the Second Year Winter Fellowship at the Fine Arts Work Center in Provincetown, Mass., for 2010–11. She has also been hired as a fiction reader at the literary magazine Our Stories. Her novel excerpt “In San Jacinto” was published in the fall/winter 2009–10 issue of Cerise Press. 96 Tara (Cesaretti) and Chris 97McLeod ’00 welcomed a baby girl, Cora, on December 7. Trena Bolden Fields wrote and 00performed a one-woman show, Daring to Think, Move, and Speak, at Dreamland Arts in January. It is a series of monologues and spirituals featuring African American women of the Civil Rights Movement. Chad Moore has been in real cently joined Weichert RealtorsTower Properties in Brainerd. Kristen Opalinski is living and working in Johannesburg, South Africa, as a communications specialist with the Lutheran Communion in Southern Africa (LUCSA). Sarah Suter was named to the 2010 “Legal Elite” attorneys in Nevada, as chosen by their peers. She practices at the firm of Ryan Mercaldo & Worthington in Las Vegas in a variety of practice areas throughout California, Nevada, and Arizona. Dara Fernandez, an attorney 04with Haskell Slaughter Young & Rediker LLC, was named the Ala- Spring 2011 33 alumni class notes bama deputy representative for the Hispanic National Bar Association. She works in international law. Nikki Lemire and Kent Bodurtha ’08 were married in Hoversten Chapel on October 30. Khoi Tuan Nguyen lives in Irvine, Calif., and is a computer engineer. He is also pursuing music as a singer and a songwriter within the Vietnamese American community in Southern California. and Lindsay (Bonner) 08were married on August 28 in 02Matthew Pavelka are excited to anBrainerd, Minn. Kelly works at Med- Jason Stock joined his father’s roofing company, which has grown and diversified throughout the economic recession, becoming national leaders in sustainability solutions. They installed green roofs on major projects such as Target Center and Minneapolis City Hall. 09leader on a Thrivent Builds Laura Wade married Joe Machacek on October 9 in Lakeville, Minn. They are employed by Mystic Lake Casino and live in Burnsville, Minn. Ryan Davies and Michelle 05Arnhold were married in Grand Rapids, Minn., on June 19. Michelle works at University of WisconsinSuperior. Ryan is employed by Nortrax. They live in Duluth. Mike Matson is currently serv- 06ing a one-year internship at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Killeen, Tex., a church with many military families. He attended Lutheran School of Theology in Chicago, and the Chaplain School and Center in Fort Jackson, S.C. Following ordination, he aims to deploy as a military chaplain with an active Navy or Marine unit. Taylor Kroger and Tara Velde ’07 were married in Detroit Lakes, Minn., on August 14. Taylor works for Cappella University in Minneapolis, and Tara is a middle school math teacher in the Minneapolis School District. They live in Minneapolis. Graham Waite started a new business, Man Essentials, an online order service for men’s socks, Tshirts, and underwear. Rachel Forsberg and Tony 07Wernsing were married on June 12. 34 Augsburg Now Kameron Markworth and Lind- 05say (Plocher) ’06 were mar- Kelly (Torfin) and Phillip Ukes tox Scientific and Phillip works at Thomson Reuters. They live in Farmington, Minn. Gena Gilbertson was a co-team trip to Lautoka, Fiji's second-largest city, from October 31 to November 13 to build a two-bedroom home for Pastor Emosi Delana and his family. nounce the birth of their son, Leo Mack, born on January 7. Matthew graduated from the University of Texas Medical School at Galveston in May 2010 and is currently an emergency medicine resident at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center in Los Angeles. ried on July 10 in Stillwater, Minn. They currently live in Philadelphia where Lindsay is pursuing a master’s degree in music therapy through a teaching assistantship at Temple University. Kameron is a creative managing partner for a web publication, DrinkPhilly.com, while also seeking a performance and teaching career in music. Three Auggies were bridesmaids: Miya Kunin ’04, Megan (Feider) Druckrey ’06, and Kristi Billings ’06. Travis Lang joined Cornerstone Bank in Bismarck, N.D., as a mortgage loan consultant. Jennifer Ortloff began a new position in October as finance director for the City of Granite Falls, Minn. Previously, she was deputy city clerk in Brownton, Minn. Matt Carlson is head coach of 10the junior varsity soccer team and assistant varsity and goalkeeper coach at Stillwater High School, as well as goalkeeper coach at the University of St. Thomas. Trisha (Chevalier) and Jason 07Garvin were married on Au- gust 21. They live in Sauk Centre, Minn. Dan Kerrigan married Amber Knutson on August 21. Matthew Tonsager and Melissa 09Moberg ’10 were married by her father, Rev. Steve Moberg in Hoversten Chapel on August 14. Auggies included Dave Afdahl ’10, vocalist/pianist; Kendra Christiansen ’10, photographer; Seth Lienard ’11, videographer; Mikey Cunningham ’09, DJ; and Kristi Castelic ’10, personal attendant. Wedding party Auggies were Brian Gullick ’09, best man; Mackenzie Shiell ’10 and Kathryn Amberg ’10, bridesmaids; Rev. James Shiell ’54, Melissa’s grandfather and a reader. Graduate Programs Will Ruffin ’09 MAE, was awarded the Rochester “ABC 6 News Excellent Educator” recognition and was featured on ABC 6 News at 5 p.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 26, and on the Good Morning show the next day. He was also recognized with the fifth-grade students, teachers, and his wife at his school. Buffie Blesi ’90, ’97 MAL, was interviewed by Shoreview Press in November about her business and background. After a career in financial services, she started her own company in 2009, KnowledgeSphere, a franchise business for AdviCoach, business coaching and advising services. Kevin Chou ’07 MBA and Jennifer (Tome) ’99 were married July 30 at St. Thomas More Catholic Church in St. Paul. Kevin is an independent Oracle Retail guru and Jennifer recently started a wine brokerage. They love to travel the world and currently call Savage home with their children and two Boxers. Send us your news and photos Please tell us about the news in your life, your new job, move, marriage, and births. Don’t forget to send photos! (Digital photos must be at least 300 dpi or a 1MB file.) For news of a death, printed notice is required, e.g. an obituary, funeral notice, or program from a memorial service. Send your news items, photos, or change of address by mail to: Augsburg Now Class Notes, Augsburg College, CB 146, 2211 Riverside Ave., Minneapolis, MN 55454, or e-mail alumni@augsburg.edu. You can also submit news at www.augsburg.edu/alumni. ____________________________________________________________ Full name ____________________________________________________________ Maiden name ____________________________________________________________ Class year or last year attended ____________________________________________________________ Street address In Memoriam Hannah (Mehus) Stensvaag ’38, Minneapolis, age 94, on November 14. Adrian C. Tinderholt ’38, Fergus Falls, Minn., age 94, on November 27. Theodore M. Nelson ’41, Two Harbors, Minn., age 90, on July 30. Rev. Bennett Randolph Quanbeck ’45, Monticello, Minn., age 94, on November 13. Beverly (Tollefson) Uhlenberg ’60, Distinguished Alumna 1994, Grand Forks, N.D., age 72, on December 4. ____________________________________________________________ City, State, Zip code Mary Lee (Felrath) Ebeling Pichner ’62, of Owatonna, Minn., age 70, on January 10. ____________________________________________________________ Home telephone Grace Johnson ’63, Sandstone, Minn., age 71, on October 23. Is this a new address? q Yes q No ____________________________________________________________ E-mail Okay to publish your e-mail address? q Yes q No Phyllis (Fredrickson) Stuckmayer ’64, Northfield, Minn., age 65, on January 11. ____________________________________________________________ Employer Rev. Loren Nelson ’67, Mahtowa, Minn., age 65, on October 21. ____________________________________________________________ Position IvaDell (Kleven) Rice ’48, Edina, Minn., age 80, on November 12. Glenda Potter ’76, Eagan, Minn., age 56, on January 3. ____________________________________________________________ Work telephone Lyla (Larson) Jystad ’49, Rochester, Minn., age 83, on August 12. Terri Monroe ’80, Pequot Lakes, Minn., age 59, on November 27. Is spouse also a graduate of Augsburg College? q Yes q No Thelma (Landsverk) Peacock LeBeau ’48, Eagle Butte, S.D., age 82, on October 3. Richard H. Aune ’50, St. Peter, Minn., age 82, on September 7. Rev. Benjamin Larson ’52, Ely, Minn., age 81, on November 13. Sigrunn Kvamme ’53, St. Paul, Minn., age 90, on September 28. Esther (Olesen) Freund ’54, Fremont, Neb., age 82, on November 9. Richard A. Mahre ’55, Richfield, Minn., age 77, on December 22. James A. Bye ’59, Redwood Falls, Minn., age 73, on December 12, 2009. Mary J. (Holmberg) Severson ’90, St. Anthony, Minn., age 65, on November 18. Susan (Doughty) Moes ’92, St. Paul, Minn., age 60, on November 11. Celeste O’Brien Haugen, former music faculty, Ft. Myers, Fla., on December 22. Howard E. Olson, former senior development officer and regent emeritus, St. Paul, Minn., age 89, on November 18. If yes, class year ________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ Spouse’s name ____________________________________________________________ Maiden name Your news: ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ q I know a student who is interested in attending Augsburg. Spring 2011 35 it takes an Auggie A gift for the future Dean Sundquist ’81 has witnessed a few changes to Augsburg’s campus since his days as an undergraduate business major. He describes how, in the campus center during the spring of his senior year, he learned about the assassination attempt on President Reagan by watching a black-and-white television that, he quips, “probably used a coat hanger for an antenna.” Now, noting the facility renovations and technological revolutions of the past 30 years, he remarks simply, “It’s changed a lot.” Sundquist knows about progress. As chairman and CEO of Mate Precision Tooling, which specializes in metal products and laser technologies, he has not only survived the economic downturn, but also guided his company through product expansion and international growth. With offices in Minnesota, Sweden, Germany, China, and Malaysia, and more than 500 employees, Sundquist’s business is a worldwide leader in its market. To many Auggies, however, business success is not Sundquist’s biggest claim to fame. He is the founder of the Sundquist Scholars, a summer research opportunity for students in the sciences. Since 2006, the Sundquist Scholars program has provided funds and resources for five students per year to conduct summer research, either of their own design or in conjunction with a professor’s project. Sundquist claims that his interest in funding the research scholars stems from the opportunity to target his gift to a specific program. “It was more exciting than donating generally to the College,” he explains—adding quickly, “although that’s important too.” While Sundquist believes that the scholars program offers a wonderful educational experience for science students, he is also excited about the potential for their work beyond Augsburg. “Scientific improvements will propel the economy,” he explains. “Science is the way of the future for the health and living conditions of everyone in the world.” The Sundquist Scholars have certainly risen to the challenge. Among the first of these students was Brian Krohn ’08, who researched a groundbreaking method for developing bio-diesel. Krohn, Augsburg’s first Rhodes Scholar, earned a master of science degree in environmental change and management at Oxford University, and is currently pursuing a master of science in the history of science, medicine, and technology. Caryn Quist ’09, another scholar, researched orchid growth and development, was a Goldwater Scholar nominee, and is currently pursuing a master’s degree in civil and environmental engineering at Stanford University. Besides providing a solid base for postgraduate study, the Sundquist Scholars program provides students the unique opportu- 36 Augsburg Now nity to perform high-level research in close partnership with a faculty mentor. Two of the most recent Sundquist Scholars, Trevor Rodriguez Sotelo and Gottlieb Uahengo, both current sophomores in the physics department, began their research on lipid biophysics the summer after their first year at Augsburg. Sundquist, who has met many of the Sundquist Scholars over the years, commends the students for their ambition and hard work. “They’re setting themselves up to go to grad school and to get jobs in research,” he says. “I’m awfully impressed. I really admire these students.” Sundquist has recently agreed not only to continue funding the program, but also to double its size. His donation will sponsor 50 more young scholars over the next five years. In addition, he has pledged to support the new Center for Science, Business, and Religion. He sees this project as an illustration of Augsburg’s distinctive interdisciplinary perspective. “These departments don’t seem like they would fit together,” he says, “but Augsburg showed me that they do.” Sundquist is humble about his contributions to Augsburg’s students. “If it works for them,” he says, “that’s my main criterion.” KAYLA SKARBAKKA ’09 is a writer living in Minneapolis. an augsburg legacy Michael Darling “After everything Augsburg did for me, it’s a bit of a no-brainer to give something back. That’s why I’ve named Augsburg College in my will. And even better, I’m able to say ‘thank you’ to Professor Emeritus Duane Johnson by designating part of my gift to an endowed scholarship fund in his name.” 1-800-273-0617 www.augsburg.edu/giving 2211 Riverside Avenue Minneapolis, MN 55454 Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Twin Cities, MN Permit No. 2031 Celebrating in rural Nicaragua While traveling down a rutted road in rural Nicaragua, members of Augsburg’s Board of Regents came upon a massive crowd cheering and celebrating in the middle of the road. Wonder turned to shock as the crowd turned and began running at full speed toward their bus. In the midst of the crowd was a depressed-looking bull being pushed along. The people were celebrating the Feast of St. Sebastian, which this year contained not a running of a bull, but more of a dragging. To view photos of Augsburg’s Board of Regents trip to Nicaragua, go to www.flickr.com/photos/augsburgcollege
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Title: Augsburg Now Spring 2012: Called To Inspire Peace
Collection: Alumni Magazine Collection
Search Result: AUGSBURG NOW SPRING 2012 VOL. 74, NO. 2 inside called Augsburg Now Magazine of Augsburg College 25The Years of Life-Changing Auggie Pastors Nobel Peace Prize Forum Travel International photo contest Writers’ challenge of place Roger Griffith ’84 pagePersonality 20 to inspire peace not...
Show more AUGSBURG NOW SPRING 2012 VOL. 74, NO. 2 inside called Augsburg Now Magazine of Augsburg College 25The Years of Life-Changing Auggie Pastors Nobel Peace Prize Forum Travel International photo contest Writers’ challenge of place Roger Griffith ’84 pagePersonality 20 to inspire peace notes from President Pribbenow Assistant Vice President of Marketing and Communication Rebecca John rjohn@augsburg.edu Creative Associate-Editorial Wendi Wheeler ’06 wheelerw@augsburg.edu Creative Director Kathy Rumpza ’05 MAL rumpza@augsburg.edu Innovation and excellence Senior Creative Associate-Design A s I write this, there is much conversation around the country about President Obama’s challenge to colleges and universities to stem tuition increases and make higher education more accessible. It is an important challenge and one we take seriously at Augsburg. In many ways, Augsburg’s longstanding commitment to access and excellence prepares us well to address the challenge. We have developed a strategic model for using College-funded financial aid to make college accessible for a diverse student body. We are involved in ongoing efforts to link academic planning, enrollment outlooks, and a sustainable financial model. We focus our attention as a campus community on ensuring that students are at the center of our lives and that their success is our primary objective. All of these efforts are mission-based and challenge us to be open to innovative ways to ensure that Augsburg’s excellence is sustained into the future. In fact, Augsburg 2019, our strategic map, names innovation and excellence as one of our three key pathways to our future. (The others are student success and telling Augsburg’s story in word and deed.) You will read in this issue of Augsburg Now about several innovative projects, including the Nobel Peace Prize Forum (see page 9), the American Commonwealth Partnership (see page 2), and the opening of the new Gage Center for Student Success (see page 3 and back cover). All of this said, however, we still must ask ourselves a fundamental question about higher education and about Augsburg in particular. That question is this: Is it worth it? Why would any of us—parents and students who pay tuition, alumni and friends who make gifts—invest the time and energy and money that college demands? It is a question I think a good bit about, though I certainly will admit my bias as a lifelong educator. In engaging in the important public conversations about the role of higher education for our economy and democracy, there is great value in re- visiting the reasons why the sort of education Augsburg offers is worth it—for our students, graduates, and the world. I find essayist and poet (and farmer) Wendell Berry’s words in his prose-poem “Damage” particularly instructive when he writes: “No expert knows everything about every place, not even everything about any place. If one’s knowledge of one’s whereabouts is insufficient, if one’s judgment is unsound, then expert advice is of little use.” Education, in other words, is not about taking someone else’s word for it. It is about finding our own way into an understanding of our world and our whereabouts so that we might use our education to make our whereabouts safer and healthier, and more fair and just. This is how we think about education here at Augsburg. Students come here not to be filled up with someone else’s knowledge but to find and ask their own questions, to test their own hypotheses, to create their own art and music, and to engage our neighborhood and world as they learn and serve. They come here to learn about themselves, to learn with each other and with our remarkable faculty, and to learn about the world they inhabit with all its diversity and complexity. And then in a few short years, we send them out from here to use their education in service and leadership in the world. We count on them to take the questions they have asked here and knowledge they have gained about their whereabouts, and then we watch with great pride and expectation how their Augsburg education makes the world a better place for all of us. Accountability for our plans and budgets? Indeed. Innovation and excellence in support of our students? You can count on it. But in the end, we must be passionate advocates for the value—the worth—of the sort of education Augsburg offers and the difference it makes for our students and the world. I thank all of you for your support and passion. Please share our amazing story! PAUL C. PRIBBENOW, PRESIDENT Jen Nagorski ’08 nagorski@augsburg.edu Photographer Stephen Geffre geffre@augsburg.edu Director of News and Media Services Stephanie Weiss weisss@augsburg.edu Production Manager/Now Online Mark Chamberlain chamberm@augsburg.edu Sports Information Director Don Stoner stoner@augsburg.edu Director of Alumni and Constituent Relations Kim Stone stonek@augsburg.edu www.augsburg.edu Augsburg Now is published by Augsburg College 2211 Riverside Ave. Minneapolis, MN 55454 Opinions expressed in Augsburg Now do not necessarily reflect official College policy. ISSN 1058-1545 Send address corrections to: Advancement Services CB 142 Augsburg College 2211 Riverside Ave. Minneapolis, MN 55454 langemo@augsburg.edu E-mail: now@augsburg.edu spring 2012 augsburg now Features 9 13 24 28 Nobel Peace Prize Forum COMPILED BY REBECCA JOHN WE ARE CALLED. auggie pastors. BY WENDI WHEELER ’06 . 14 Bob Bagley ’58 16 David Lillejord ’86 18 Jeni Falkman Grangaard ’02 20 Peter Morlock ’90 22 Stephanie Quick-Espinoza ’01 9 contents 13 26 On the cover At the 24th annual Nobel Peace Prize Forum, Augsburg’s President Paul C. Pribbenow was joined by F. W. de Klerk, former South African president and 1993 Nobel Peace Prize laureate, and Peter Agre ’70, 2003 recipient of the Nobel Prize in Chemistry, and director of the Johns Hopkins Malaria Research Institute. All photos by Stephen Geffre unless otherwise indicated. 24 26 28 International photo contest Auggie writers’ challenge COMPILED BY WENDI WHEELER ’06 The personality of place—student break room BY STEPHEN GEFFRE Departments inside front cover 2 5 6 30 31 36 40 Notes from President Pribbenow Around the Quad My Auggie experience Auggie voices Auggies in the front office Alumni news Class notes It takes an Auggie quad around the SportsExtravaganza American Commonwealth Partnership Augsburg was named coordinator of the nationwide American Commonwealth Partnership (ACP), launched in January by the White House Office of Public Engagement, the U.S. Department of Education, and the Association of American Colleges and Universities. The ACP is rooted in the recognition that education should be— must be—delivered for the common good rather than be allowed to become an individual benefit only for those who can afford it. As coordinator, Augsburg will work to deepen connections and relationships and create policies, initiatives, and practices in public engagement efforts across higher education. Read more on page 6 of this edition of Augsburg Now. Auggies majoring in physical education had the chance in November to work with more than 225 grade school kids from 27 schools during the Sports Extravaganza. All the youth who attended have developmental and/or physical needs and participated in nine different activities designed with their needs in mind. The program is a chance for future teachers to get hands-on practice working with students. Academic ACCREDITATION education Youth Day Native American More than 250 Native American youth from grades 6 through 12 were on campus January 13 for Native American Youth Day. As part of their visit, the students from eight metro-area school districts had the chance to hear Olympian Billy Mills talk about living a drug-free, alcohol-free life. Mills, who was born and raised on the Pine Ridge (Lakota) Reservation in South Dakota, also spoke about “Unity through Diversity” in an evening presentation open to the public. 2 Augsburg Now The National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE) Review Board granted Augsburg’s Education Department programs continued national accreditation until 2017. Accredited programs include initial licensure programs in elementary, secondary, and special education at the undergraduate and graduate level. NCATE also granted a two-year accreditation to advanced licensure programs. In addition, the department’s teaching and service to the community received the highest possible rating by the NCATE Review Board. nursing The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) Board of Commissioners granted accreditation to the College’s post-master’s Doctor of Nursing Practice Program for a term of five years, the maximum time frame granted for accreditation of new programs. Clair and Gladys Strommen EXECUTIVE LEADER SPEAKER SERIES The 2011-12 Clair and Gladys Strommen Executive Leader Speaker Series kicked off in November with Steve Wehrenberg ’78, CEO of Campbell Mithun advertising agency. In February, the series welcomed Keith Wyche, a leading African-American executive and CEO of Cub Foods. The next event in the series, March 29, features Jim Owens, president and CEO of HB Fuller. All Strommen Executive Leader Speaker events are free and open to the public. C E L E BRAT I N G 3 0 Y E AR S GAGE CENTER CELEBRATION The Center for Global Education celebrates its 30-year anniversary of offering cross-cultural learning experiences that foster critical analysis of local and global conditions. During December, CGE hosted its first trip to Cuba since 2005. The program provided participants an opportunity to learn about politics, health care, food security, workers’ rights, and more. Beginning in the fall of 2012, Augsburg will conduct semester-long programs in Cuba with courses in history, political science, sociology, and Spanish language. The program will be coordinated by CGE in conjunction with the Martin Luther King Jr. Center, an organization based in Havana and dedicated to community development and national and international politics. Augsburg is one of only a handful of colleges to offer such a unique learning opportunity. Representatives of the Gage and Groves Family foundations joined Augsburg College staff and faculty in February for the grand opening of the Gage Center for Student Success and the Groves Center of Technology, located at the heart of campus on the second level of the Lindell Library. Celebration of Philanthropy Modeling Constructive Debate: The Celebration of Philanthropy, the second annual celebration of supporters and friends of the College, is June 7. The event is open to current annual donors who have made gifts of $1,000 or more in fiscal 2012, Sven Oftedal Society members, donors who have made cumulative gifts of $25,000 or more, and donors who have given to the College for 15 or more consecutive years. Invitations to the event will be mailed this spring. Augsburg’s annual Sabo Symposium modeled constructive debate in addressing some of the contentious issues surrounding K-12 integration funding in Minnesota. The panel included Peter Swanson and Scott Thomas, co-chairs of the Minnesota Integration Revenue Replacement Advisory Task Force, who discussed their experiences on the task force to illustrate how people with differing perspectives can lead and model civil discourse in order to work together productively. Sabo Public Policy Symposium To learn more about the Symposium, go to www.augsburg.edu/now. Spring 2012 3 quad around the MANY VOICES BOLD VISIONS New academic programs The Augsburg College Board of Regents has approved two new graduate-level programs—the Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Creative Writing and the Master of Music Therapy—which will launch in the fall of 2013. The Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing offers tracks in fiction, creative nonfiction, poetry, and screenwriting. Playwriting will be added in 2014. The MFA will be offered through a low-residency, hybrid model that includes online and face-to-face learning. The Master of Music Therapy will address changes to the minimum professional requirements for music therapists as set by the Music Therapy National Board. The program, offered via a combination of online and face-to-face learning formats, focuses on music and medicine, which is projected to be a growth field in nursing homes and hospice care. Also, the Augsburg College faculty approved an ESL (English as a Second Language) teacher licensure program, an area of demand in K-12 education today. The program is currently pending final approval from the State of Minnesota and will be offered at the undergraduate and graduate levels of the College’s teacher education programs. Where Condor Meets Eagle NATIVE AMERICAN FILM FESTIVAL Frederic Luskin, director of the Stanford University Forgiveness Project, spoke February 11 at the Center for Counseling and Health Promotion Convocation about the process of letting go of hurt, helplessness, and anger, while increasing confidence, hope, and happiness. At this year’s Batalden Symposium in Applied Ethics, members of the Augsburg community explored the effects of youth on political change in Egypt through first-hand accounts from members of the EYouth (Engaging and Empowering Egyptian Youth) project, who described their experiences as part of the protests and their observations about the process of youth-led political change in Egypt. Kenna-Camara Cotton, director of Voice of Culture Drum and Dance, a Minneapolis-based Black dance company, performs an African dance at the January Martin Luther King Jr. Convocation. Photo by Mark Chamberlain Augsburg Now The Martin Luther King Jr. Convocation, held January 16, featured T. Mychael Rambo, local actor, vocalist, and educator. The convocation featured other local performers using poetry, song, dance, and imagery to explore the topic, “Now is the Time: Giving Voice to the Dream.” A full schedule of the 2011-12 Augsburg College Convocation series is available at www.augsburg.edu/convo. Augsburg’s Native American Film Series partnered with Phillips Indian Educators and the Parkway Theater to present a three-night film festival in March celebrating indigenous film, collaborations across national boundaries, and visual storytelling. The festival featured films by Bolivian and North American artists, many of whom attended the screenings and participated in audience discussions about their films. The festival title, Where Condor Meets Eagle, reflects the prophecy that when the condor (Bolivia) meets the eagle (North America), the Indigenous continent will be healed. 4 Convocation Series 2011-12 my Auggie experience Beating the Odds After completing her PhD from Yale in 2009, Chandra Erdman ’02 was in high demand. She was recruited for tenure track teaching positions at several universities, and the global banking firm Goldman Sachs also came calling with an attractive offer. But Erdman’s dream job was to work for the U.S. Census Bureau. Today, she is one of the 39 percent of Washington, D.C., residents who work for the government. She is a mathematical statistician in the Center for Statistical Research and Methodology, a group that makes up less than one percent of U.S. Census Bureau employees. She also happens to be the only African American ever to obtain a PhD in statistics from Yale University. There was a time, however, when Erdman did not care about graduating from high school, much less obtaining a college degree. But with the encouragement and support from those who recognized her potential, she has not only succeeded as a scholar, she has also landed her dream job. In the 10th grade, Erdman was truant 59 days; if she had missed 60 days, she would have been expelled. While speaking to mathematics students at Augsburg in January, Erdman said she had an “attitude” in high school. Despite her truancy and her bad attitude, she maintained a 4.27 grade point average (out of 4.33). At the end of her 10th grade year, she met a man who directed a program that helped inner city youth focus on their education. “I didn’t think college was an option for me,” Erdman said. Neither of her parents had graduated from high school, and in the low-income housing community where she grew up, she knew no one who had gone to college. Erdman enrolled in the Post-Secondary Enrollment Options program (PSEO) at the University of Minnesota. After two years, she transferred to Augsburg to complete her undergraduate degree in mathematics. “My only aunt who had been to college went to Augsburg,” she said, “and this just felt like the right place for me.” Erdman continued to excel at Augsburg as a McNair Scholar, a federally-funded program that assists first-generation and low-income students with preparation for graduate school. She also conducted faculty-led research, served as a supplemental instructor for Calculus I and II, and tutored in mathematics. Through McNair, and with the guidance of several staff and faculty members, Erdman realized that a graduate degree could be in her future. “They helped me along each step of the way, getting me prepared and helping me do what I needed to become a strong applicant to grad school,” she said. Erdman applied to and was accepted by three graduate programs in statistics. She chose Columbia, where she received a full fellowship. In the summer before graduate school and again following that year, Erdman participated in Enhancing Diversity in Graduate Education (EDGE), a program aimed at helping women prepare for graduate study in mathematics. She completed her master’s program in one year and then went on to Yale to pursue a PhD. When she finished her PhD program, Erdman applied to the Census Bureau and heard nothing from them for three months. Then she learned that the director of the statistical research division was speaking at a conference in Washington, D.C. She bought a train ticket and went to meet him. “At the end of his presentation, I walked up to him, handed him my C.V., and said, ‘I want to work for you.’” They talked, and he later invited her for an interview. Today Erdman works in the Center for Statistical Research and Methodology at the U.S. Census Bureau. “I wanted to work at Census because I wanted to look at good data, but I got put into the missing data methods group that only looks at bad data,” she said. Still, she loves her work and speaks enthusiastically about the projects in which she has been involved. Now that she is finished with school and settled into her career, Erdman hopes to find a way to mentor other young women through the EDGE program. WENDI WHEELER ’06 Spring 2012 5 auggie voices Higher Education as a Public Good In January, Augsburg joined the White House Office of Public Engagement, the Association of American Colleges and Universities, the U.S. Department of Education, other education organizations, philanthropies, and businesses in launching the American Commonwealth Partnership (ACP) to begin a year of activity exploring how colleges and universities can reclaim their civic identity. At the heart of this initiative is the recognition that higher education should be—and must be—delivered for the common good rather than be allowed to become an AT THE CREST OF A WAVE For many years, Augsburg, with its mission of educating students to be “informed citizens, thoughtful stewards, critical thinkers, and responsible leaders,” has resisted forces turning higher education into a private benefit rather than a public good. When the public opinion group Public Agenda recently sounded people’s views on the role of higher education, they found little awareness that colleges and universities can contribute to the health of neighborhoods, or that they educate students to be problem solvers with skills of working across differences. But describing these roles in focus groups also generated animated discussion and created hope. Many remarked that few places any longer teach such skills. There was the sense that the country is dangerously polarized and losing control over our collective future. On January 10 at the White House, many higher education groups launched a major new coalition, the American Commonwealth Partnership, to respond to the civic crisis. It has support from the Department of Education, which released a new “Road Map and Call to Action,” emphasizing citizenship education. Augsburg is the inaugural host institution for ACP, which seeks to mobilize colleges and universities in developing “civic identity, not simply civic activities.” By engaging in this exciting project, Augsburg is at the crest of a new wave of reengagement of higher education with communities and the world. DEMOCRACY AND CITIZENSHIP HARRY C. BOYTE is the director of the Center for Democracy and Citizenship at Augsburg College and serves as national coordinator of the American Commonwealth Partnership. 6 Augsburg Now individual benefit only for those who can afford it. As part of the dialogue about the role of higher education in building civic identity, we asked Augsburg faculty from various academic departments to provide their perspectives on how higher education serves the public good. Their responses are published here. For additional information on higher education as a public good, go to www.augsburg.edu/now. CITIZEN NURSES: A UNIQUE PERSPECTIVE ON HEALTH In our society today, people have become so medicalized that we often forget that health is not about the absence of disease but a place of belonging. At Augsburg College, the Department of Nursing has focused on returning to what nursing was originally intended to be about—relationships—by opening two drop-in community health centers. One of these centers provides care to people living on the streets of Minneapolis. This center has been in existence for almost 20 years, and the nurses there engage with 120 people each week. We listen, provide basic necessities, and take the time to make sure people feel they are supported and are part of a community. Our other drop-in center, the Health Commons at Dar Ul-Quba, is a new project focused on immigrant health in the CedarRiverside neighborhood of Minneapolis. Our efforts at Dar Ul-Quba have been about trying to help people not only to understand our healthcare system but also to realize how they can practice health and healing as they did in their country of origin. The center also helps people come together to create the change they want to see in their neighborhood. To us, being citizen nurses means that we are working to strengthen our communities in ways that avoid the expert model. We see people as collaborators and co-creators. Through their experiences at the drop-in centers, Augsburg nursing students are changing their worldviews in ways that benefit our society. Our hope is to continue to do just that. NURSING KATIE CLARK is an instructor in Augsburg’s nursing department and serves as coordinator of the Augsburg Nursing Center. “ In exchange for services rendered to the neighborhood organization, Augsburg students are privileged to observe and learn about citizenship, democracy, and being a ‘steward of place.’ ” AUGSBURG: AGENT AND ARCHITECT OF DEMOCRACY AND STEWARD OF PLACE The work of Joel Torstenson, Bernhard Christensen, Myles Stenshoel, Vern Bloom, and Robert Clyde reveals the history of Augsburg’s role as agent and architect of democracy and steward of place and provides the context for our current activities. As I reflect and write about their work, I marvel at their insight, commitment, and capacity as agents and stewards of place, well before it was in vogue or even acceptable. I probably would not have remained in higher education were it not for Augsburg’s valuing such a commitment for faculty and welcoming me to be a part of this vision and endeavor. For 30 years, students in my Human Community and Modern Metropolis course have engaged in a service-learning experience in collaboration with the official neighborhood organizations surrounding Augsburg: CedarRiverside, Seward, Phillips, and Powderhorn. In exchange for services rendered to the neighborhood organization, Augsburg students are privileged to observe and learn about citizenship, democracy, and being a “steward of place.” In addition to seeing and feeling the value of grassroots efforts to take responsibility for a neighborhood and influence the wider political context, students have learned firsthand about community organizing, community development, and public service. Many students, as alumni, have expanded their sense of vocation, both as citizens and professionals, through these engagements with the commonwealth and as stewards of place. SOCIOLOGY GARRY HESSER is a professor of metro/urban studies and sociology at Augsburg College. To read Hesser’s complete submission, go to www.augsburg.edu/now. FROM COMPLEXITY TO COMPASSION In his book My First Summer in the Sierra, John Muir offered a sentiment which, more than 100 years later, represents as good a justification for higher education in contemporary society as one is likely to find in any college catalogue: “When we try to pick out anything by itself,” he says, speaking of the profoundly ecological nature of the world, “we find it hitched to everything else in the Universe.” To be sure, college campuses—meaning the empirical kind with living, breathing students, with staff, teachers, textbooks, trees, quads, and stadiums—sit squarely at the various junctures of this tangled-up creation, seeking from these vantage points to understand through intensive study the pressing issues, the timeless questions, and the persistent, ineluctable mysteries that unite our places in time and space with those of countless others. College is literally where and when we hope to experience the joy that comes with accessing the eternal through the particular. It is where we come to study, in our specific yet overlapping disciplines, the problems of the world so as to appreciate the complexity of all things—because it is, without question, an informed appreciation for complexity that inspires reflection and breeds compassion. ENGLISH COLIN IRVINE is an associate professor of English at Augsburg College and serves as the summer 2012 research coordinator for the College’s Office of Undergraduate Research and Graduate Opportunity (URGO). “ College is ... where we come to study, in our specific yet overlapping disciplines, the problems of the world so as to appreciate the complexity of all things. ” Spring 2012 7 ARTS-BASED CIVIC DIALOGUE Arts programs in higher education are all the more vibrant when a wealth of voices and bodies come together to create and discuss work. Community-engaged performance is progressive pedagogy; it’s theater by, for, of, and about the people—and it can be an integral part of a civic-minded college culture. Last winter, the student ensemble of The Living Newspaper Project: Everyone Has Something used collective research, writing, workshops, and performance to generate discussion about a taboo topic: the stigma attached to mental illness. They engaged with audiences through post-show talkbacks and panels, academic conferences, letters in the Augsburg Echo, and outreach to local community organizations. Next fall, students will be invited to tackle a Town Hall Nation project by creating short performances around campus that gen- THEATER ARTS erate civic dialogue on campus about students’ financial needs and crises. Town Hall Nation is a national engagement initiative inviting arts organizations, colleges and universities, and other community groups to create 30-minute events that demonstrate, present, or embody an ideal town hall meeting. Students of any major may audition for or volunteer to participate in the Town Hall Nation project, as with any other Theater Department production. SARAH MYERS is an assistant professor in Augsburg’s Theater Arts Department. “ Community-engaged performance is progressive pedagogy; it’s theater by, for, of, and about the people— and it can be an integral part of a civic-minded college culture. ” 8 Augsburg Now “ In transforming individuals, we transform our communities and our world. DEVELOPING INDIVIDUAL AGENCY TO TRANSFORM OUR WORLD ” Higher education is often viewed as separate from the public arena, something accessible to a few and beneficial to only the individual. However, higher education greatly impacts the public good, and that impact is the true mission of higher education. In transforming individuals, we transform our communities and our world. In this era of globalization, individualism seems to serve little purpose. Preparing children to live in a global society is essential and should begin in the K-12 years. Higher education then is a continuation of that learning and a time to step out into the world. With this in mind, while higher education does serve the individual, the larger goal is the influence each individual will have on the greater public good. The impact of higher education is increasingly more visible and far reaching. More frequently, civic engagement has become part of higher education curriculum. The need for students to see and experience a more seamless connection to their acquisition and application of knowledge is essential. Knowledge is not only something centered in higher education institutions; it is also something constructed and exercised within the community. Knowledge then becomes transformative not only to the individual but to the broader community, society, and world. This is increasingly being seen through civic engagement projects such as Public Achievement, service learning, and travel abroad experiences where students and faculty “develop agency” through active rather than passive means that, in turn, inform theory and future practice. EDUCATION SUSAN O’CONNOR is an associate professor of education at Augsburg College. “I can really say that [the Nobel Peace Prize Forum] has changed my perspective of the world around us!” “Couldn’t have asked for a more thoughtprovoking and inspiring three days.” These are just two of the sentiments shared via social media by participants of the 24th annual Nobel Peace Prize Forum, held March 1 to 3. The Nobel Peace Prize Forum exists to inspire peacemaking by celebrating the work of Nobel Peace Prize laureates. Founded as a unique partnership between the Norwegian Nobel Institute and five Norwegian private colleges—Augsburg, Augustana (Sioux Falls), Concordia (Moorhead), Luther, and St. Olaf—the Forum this year moved to its new, permanent location in the Twin Cities. It is organized by Augsburg college in partnership with the Humphrey School of Public Affairs and with ongoing sponsorship from the original college partners. With “The Price of Peace” as its theme, the 2012 Forum introduced a new format with topical tracks—Business Day, Arts and Music Day, Education Day, and Global Studies Day—to engage participants in exploring the relationship of stability and peace to business, to arts and music, to education, and to international policy. A number of tracks and events were sold out, including Business Day, the Education Festival, and Global Studies Day. In fact, as coverage by major Twin Cities media grew on the second day of the Forum, more than 200 additional tickets were sold for the closing day of the event. In addition to the tremendous attendance, the Forum fostered dialogue around the world through livestreaming. Students from Assumption University of Bangkok, American College of Norway, the Copenhagen Business School, Nagasaki University, and Nelson Mandela University of South Africa watched keynote addresses live, submitted questions, and engaged in dialogue about peace. For additional photos, video links, and social media quotes about the Forum, go to www.augsburg.edu/now NOBEL PEACE PRIZE FORUM WE INSPIRE PEACEMAKING Spring 2012 9 THE 2012 NOBEL PEACE PRIZE FORUM 10 Augsburg Now THE 2012 NOBEL PEACE PRIZE FORUM Spring 2012 11 “The prizes of peace, in fact, come to us in very little stages…but in order to claim them, we must be willing to pay the price…We have to be willing to recognize and celebrate the humanity of those whom we view as enemy…We must start from the place of believing that those who are opposed to us…are human beings with a story of their own to tell. We must start from an awareness that our side is not necessarily all good. The price of peace is the price of our pride…the certainty that we are right…the comfort that we are on God’s side…As we go out into our lives, be prepared to pay the price for peace—the price of uncertainty, the price of humility, the price of recognizing our connectedness as human beings.” —Naomi Tutu, Nobel Peace Prize Forum “Call to Action” address, March 3, 2012 Augsburg College thanks the sponsors of the 24th annual Nobel Peace Prize Forum, whose financial support and subject matter expertise helped make the 2012 Forum a success. We also owe thanks to the many volunteers, faculty, and staff from all of the participating colleges and universities. We are grateful for the perspectives shared by speakers, the participation of our student and community attendees, and the dedicated work of the volunteers who ensured this rich and vibrant event ran smoothly from beginning to end. Now that the 2012 Forum has concluded, we invite you to stay connected to the work of the Nobel Peace Prize Forum by signing up for e-mail updates at www.peaceprizeforum.org, and by following us on Facebook (www.facebook.com/nobelforum) and Twitter (@NPPF). Finally, be sure to mark your calendars for March 7-9, 2013. We look forward to seeing you next year! BUSINESS DAY SPONSORS MAJOR EVENT SPONSORS SPONSORS 3M A Million Copies Initiative Borton Volvo Jeanne M. Voigt Foundation Minnesota Public Radio Nordic Home Interiors GLOBAL STUDIES DAY SPONSOR Oslo Center For Peace and Human Rights Foundation Winds of Peace Foundation Special thanks to our 2013 NOBEL PEACE PRIZE FORUM LEAD SPONSOR 12 Augsburg Now THE 25TH ANNUAL NOBEL PEACE PRIZE FORUM March 7-9, 2013 Augsburg College and the University of Minnesota Humphrey School of Public Affairs WE ARE CALLED. auggie pastors. BY WENDI WHEELER ’06 Last year, Bob Bagley ’58 submitted an idea for a story about his teacher, mentor, and friend, Mario Colacci. His submission sparked an idea. We decided to interview different generations of Augsburg pastors who have served in a variety of settings. We wanted to know who inspired them. We wanted to share their experiences and highlight the similarities and differences in their ministries. We wanted to know what they want our readers to know about their lives as servants. The following interviews are with pastors Bob Bagley ’58, David Lillejord ’86, Jeni Falkman Grangaard ’02, Peter Morlock ’90, and Stephanie Quick-Espinoza ’01. To read Bob Bagley’s story about Mario Colacci, go to www.augsburg.edu/now. Spring 2012 13 14 Augsburg Now ’58 BOB BAGLEY Retired. First call in Papau New Guinea; served most recently part-time at Christ Lutheran in Lake Elmo, Minn. As a pastor, what did you learn that you didn’t expect to learn? Here’s the biggie: Bishop Rogness’ dad, Alvin Rogness…when I came to a rural parish after being in New Guinea, he said, “Bob, you use this small parish to better yourself for future ministry.” So here’s what I did. I made advanced standing in clinical pastoral education. I was endorsed for specialized ministry, which most pastors don’t make, specializing in chaplaincy work in hospitals. After my fourth parish, I went to Hazelden and did a four-year chaplaincy program. Then I was endorsed for veterans’ hospital ministry. I was a chaplain for a year at the big VA Hospital in Minneapolis. What is an issue that you never imagined yourself dealing with as a pastor? The first parish after Papua New Guinea was easy because it was a bunch of loving, Norwegian farmers. It was a good place to get re-acclimated to the American way of doing things after five years overseas. What are some of the most interesting or prominent changes you’ve seen in the church in your career or since you went to seminary? There’s a lot more support in empowering the pastors to do what they’re most gifted to do. You can’t do everything; you can’t be good at everything. I think a middle-sized parish should have a changeover of pastors every six years because in six years you’ve kind of done everything and it’s time to move on. The concept of the old Lutheran Free Church and many of the old ELC churches was that they were tired of the pastor doing everything and deciding everything, and they hardly needed a church council. The reaction to that was “We’re going to tell the pastor what to do.” Now it’s changed so that the pastors are empowered to do whatever they’re most gifted in. What are your own spiritual practices? Where/to whom do you turn for guidance and encouragement? I work with 60 global students at Luther Seminary who come from all over the world. I also did ministry with people with alcohol and drug issues. At Gethsemane Lutheran in Maplewood and where I am now, I established Stephen ministry, an outreach. I do more training to help others minister to people in great need. Is there a particular passage of scripture that frames your call to ministry? It would be where Jesus said to the whole church, “I send you.” The motto that I follow is: Go out and share the love of Jesus, and only if necessary, say something. Naomi (my wife) says too often I end up telling people I’m a pastor. She says, “You don’t have to say anything. Just be you.” What is one thing you wish non-clergy knew about your life/identity/call as a pastor? I’ve never been satisfied to stop growing in pastoral care and I’m available when people want to talk. The gift I learned from a Catholic priest in my chaplaincy training is this: He asked me what I consider to be my primary gift. I said, “I don’t know.” He said, “When you’re talking with someone, there’s just an automatic pipeline between your eyes and their eyes, and that removes all reluctance to talk.” I can get people to share stuff with me that normally would take four or five visits, but they know I care about them by just looking them in the eye. What is one of your most memorable services? At the VA Hospital, I touched the lives of people there who, if I hadn’t had special training, I wouldn’t have been able to help. One guy owned a million-dollar auto dealership, and he wouldn’t sign his will and he was dying. It was on a Saturday that I wasn’t even supposed to work. The people were waiting for me at the door saying I needed to come up and talk to their dad. I sat down with him and his son and had Holy Communion as a Lutheran priest (he was Catholic). When we were done, I said, “Your family is so upset. It’s unbearable for them that the doctor says you’re dying, and you haven’t signed your will.” He kept saying, “Nope. I got a few loose ends to tie up at the dealership.” In the end, I got him to sign his will by promising I would help him tie up the loose ends. A cheer went forth to the Lord above. The next day he was playing cards with his friends in the hospital, and three days later he died. What do you think you would be if you were not a pastor? I probably would have followed in my older brother Emil’s footsteps and have done some aspect of social work. When you meet God, what do you hope God says to you? Well, I would be meeting Jesus, not God, and he would say, “Well, welcome thou good and faithful servant.” Spring 2012 15 ’86 DAVID LILLEJORD Senior Pastor, Mount Calvary Lutheran in Eagan, Minn., until March 2012; now Senior Pastor, St. Andrew in Eden Prairie, Minn. 16 Augsburg Now As a pastor, what did you learn that you didn’t expect to learn? I mostly learn about myself—what I do well, what I can improve upon. As a little kid who grew up in a parsonage, I knew people inside and out and was able to see in them the really good and the really bad or indifferent. I knew the goodness and the wonderful nature of the church and the underbelly, so what I’ve learned in 20 years is mostly about myself. What is an issue that you never imagined yourself dealing with as a pastor? I think the issue is the number of people who simply are not attending church, even people that years ago would have naturally been inclined to find a new home, start a family, baptize their kids, go to Sunday school, and become involved in the life of the church. There’s a whole subset of people who simply have not engaged for myriad reasons. What are some of the most interesting or prominent changes you’ve seen in the church in your career or since you went to seminary? I think an awful lot of changes have happened in seminary training. When I attended 20 years ago, it was simply, “We need to teach you how to teach people the historical context and facts about the Bible.” I think now it is so much more, “What does this mean for our life?” I do think the younger people who do go to church want a direct connection between what scripture says and how it will connect with their lives. That means we have to make our message contemporary and even futuristic. What are your own spiritual practices? Where/to whom do you turn for guidance and encouragement? What is one thing you wish non-clergy knew about your life/identity/call as a pastor? I’m part of a team ministry, and I’m able to hear really good sermons delivered by my colleague. It’s hard to listen when you’re talking, so I’m fed in and through my colleague who preaches the gospel well. For guidance and encouragement, I’m so inspired by the members of the congregation. I’m always greatly fortified by the faith that parishioners have. I go in as a kind of spiritual lifeguard, and they end up humbling me. They encourage me because they live out their faith. It’s like a good teacher who is fed by the students. My biggest supporters are my wife and children. They are my lifeline—other than Jesus, of course. The importance of balancing all those three and the holistic nature of that continuum. Being a pastor today is different, thankfully, than when my dad was younger, which was you basically served the church, often at the expense of spending time with family. I have a wife (Joy) and three children: two in hockey and one in soccer who also rides horses. Also it’s important for members to know that the vast majority of pastors are trying as hard as they can. It’s just a very difficult and challenging job. Is there a particular passage of scripture that frames your call to ministry? I would say more of a theme or concept, one I learned from one of my many mentors. It is that God is in relationship with you through Jesus. It’s a declaration; it’s not a theory or something that needs to be validated. It’s just “God is,” and you explore how that’s true. You notice it, you name it, and you claim it. We had a healing service a number of years ago for a woman who was diagnosed with terminal pancreatic cancer. We had never been asked to have a healing service before. So we constructed a service with the laying on of hands. Not that long after the healing service she went to the doctor and they did tests, and the cancer was gone. When we heard about the lack of cancer, even we were amazed. Who at Augsburg inspired or guided you, and how? What do you think you would be if you were not a pastor? The religion professors at Augsburg were helpful to my life of faith because they were “good” and solid Lutherans. I have heard stories of Lutheran colleges that tell students: “What you were taught in Sunday school and Confirmation was wrong.” Thankfully, the professors at Augsburg helped us look deeper into scripture through a Lutheran lens. After this long I can’t imagine what it would be; however, psychology also makes me tick. What is one of your most memorable services? When you meet God, what do you hope God says to you? It would probably be, “Your mom’s over here.” She died much too young, and I would love to see her again. Spring 2012 17 As a pastor, what did you learn that you didn’t expect to learn? It’s a huge learning experience … things from how to learn about sump pumps, budgeting, working with office managers, how to be tactful and graceful, how to balance a really chaotic life and come at it with some sensibility and some sense of peace—all of these are a big part of my learning experience. What is an issue that you never imagined yourself dealing with as a pastor? One is dealing with a local sugar producer. A lot of our people harvest beets, and we have a lot who work in the plant. Their union has been locked out since August. There are some people who aren’t union who are working 12-hour shifts now and can’t see their families. I also have people who are on the board there. So I don’t make any comments on the issue. It’s really messy, and there’s no one side to stand on. What are your own spiritual practices? Where/to whom do you turn for guidance and support? Spiritual practice for me means finding time for silence. Colin (husband) and I went to Taizé in France and got into the rhythm of simple prayer, silence, and meditation. I turn to colleagues and good friends who are in similar positions for guidance. There are some good seasoned pastors who have made themselves available to have conversations with, and certainly our bishop’s staff at the synod has a lot of experience. Who at Augsburg inspired or guided you, and how? Augsburg was a place that really rooted my faith in the world and really shaped the person I am today. Having not grown up in church, I was so young in faith when I came 18 Augsburg Now to Augsburg. The Religion Department faculty took time to respond to my questions, especially Janelle Bussert, Bev Stratton, Mark Tranvik, Lynn Lorenzen, Brad Holt, Phil Quanbeck, and Lori Brandt Hale. Pastor Dave Wold and Pastor Sonja Hagander were my first pastors, and they invited me into the language and liturgy of being Lutheran. The Center for Global Education taught me to see that faith isn’t just a personal relationship with God but a deep engagement with the world, especially in places of suffering; they helped me to see that God is with those who suffer. Augsburg prepared me to be a pastor before I began discerning the call to ordained ministry. Is there a particular passage of scripture that frames your call to ministry? There have been a lot of different verses that I’ve clung to at different times. Galatians 2:19-21. 19 For through the law I died to the law, so that I might live to God. I have been crucified with Christ; 20 and it is no longer I who live, but it is Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. 21 I do not nullify the grace of God; for if justification comes through the law, then Christ died for nothing. What is one thing you wish non-clergy knew about your life/identity/call as a pastor? I just want people to know I’m easy to talk to, and I’m not trying to get anything from them. I’m not here to tell people they are behaving badly. I’d rather just talk about the gospel. I want people to know we don’t fit into a mold, and pastors aren’t the guardians of the gospel. No one can claim ownership on the gospel. What is one of your most memorable services? I did a prayer service and funeral for a 54year-old man who had served on the board of a local company. There were over 1,000 people, and we had to have the funeral at a bigger church in town. There’s something strangely beautiful about a funeral. There’s no pretending. It’s an inevitable part of life. Sometimes it’s a celebration, but this one was special. Before I entered the church, I closed my eyes and was praying, and there was a beautiful light streaming in through the stained glass windows. It was a really meaningful service. I’m still reflecting on it and getting comments on it. Working with the family has been strangely affirming and grounding. When you meet God, what do you hope God says to you? What I hope I’d hear God say is, “I kinda like that Josh Ritter song, too.” The song is Thin Blue Flame, and it includes lyrics like: “Only a full house gonna have a prayer,” and “You need faith for the same reasons that it’s so hard to find,” and “And all wrongs forgotten and all vengeance made right. The suffering verbs put to sleep in the night.” What do you think you would be if you were not a pastor? If I knew, I would go be that. I don’t know! Sometimes I think I’d like to be a chef. I like the idea of making meals and baking bread and spending time with people. Part of me wants to design websites. The thing about being a pastor that is so appealing, other than the vocational call that brings you there, is that you have permission to be a generalist. You get to do a lot of different things. ’02 JENI FALKMAN GRANGAARD Pastor, Glyndon Lutheran Church, Glyndon, Minn. Spring 2012 19 As a pastor, what did you learn that you didn’t expect to learn? All kinds of stuff! One of the things that they can’t really teach you in seminary is how to get into a community and to become part of that community. You can’t really teach how to enter into the daily life and get a sense of the pulse of the community. What is an issue that you never imagined yourself dealing with as a pastor? One of the things I’ve found myself dealing with that I hadn’t thought of while I was in seminary is helping people with their dayto-day problems. There’s such a variety of things that may come up. One day you’re talking with someone about their medications, which I know nothing about, or you’re talking with someone about daily living and how it is to do that. What are some of the most interesting or prominent changes you’ve seen in the church in your career or since you went to seminary? One of the trends I’ve seen over the years is a wider inclusiveness, if you will, in an issue that’s near and dear to my heart. I’ve seen a concerted effort by the church to make their buildings and their worship services and facilities more accessible and more friendly to folks with disabilities. All the things that bring people in and into contact with the gospel are good stuff. What are your own spiritual practices? Where/to whom do you turn for guidance and encouragement? One of the challenges of being a pastor, especially in a setting like this, is where I go to feed myself, to “the well.” I have a men’s Bible study that I’m part of at 20 Augsburg Now church, and they have become the group where I go to get fed. I also meet regularly with my chaplain colleagues in the area, and we worship and pray together. Who at Augsburg inspired or guided you, and how? Without doubt major influences during my time at Augsburg would include the following people: Pastor Dave Wold, Don Gustafson, “Gabe” (Prof. Stephen Gabrielsen), Tom Rossin, and my fellow choir members (1986-1990). One of the things that I truly appreciate about Augsburg, even today, is the willingness to engage the idea of vocation and make intentional questions about the connection between faith and life. Throughout my time at Augsburg and even beyond that, these people were/are instrumental in my walk of life and faith. In broad strokes they helped to provide the arena in which my self-understanding and my sense of call were shaped and honed. Daily contact with these folks helped me to see vocation in action and also gave me the space and the courage to face and voice my questions. They were, and still are, willing to engage with me and push me in conversation and prayer. Is there a particular passage of scripture that frames your call to ministry? people who work only on Sundays. In this setting, people aren’t entirely sure what to do with you. One thing I wish folks would think of is the importance of spiritual stuff, the spiritual nature, and how that needs to be supported and fed. What is one of your most memorable services? We did a service on our Alzheimer’s unit to break up the winter blahs. We did a renewal of vows ceremony for one of the residents and her husband. They’d been married for 56 years. We had a big wedding party, and what was really neat is that on that unit, it’s kind of a crapshoot as to whether or not the resident will remember who their family members are. For that particular moment in that service, the wife, Alyce, walked out of the kitchen and she saw her husband, and her face lit up, and she came up to him and chucked him in the chin and said, “Let’s do this again, sweetie.” It was awesome. It turned out to be a meaningful experience for Alyce and her husband and their family because they’d never had a wedding. Their families didn’t like each other, so they eloped. And they both passed away within three months of that ceremony. The walk to Emmaus story resonates really highly with me, particularly in the work I do now. A lot of what I’m called to do is walk alongside people at the end of life. I also like Psalm 121. What do you think you would be if you were not a pastor? What is one thing you wish non-clergy knew about your life/identity/call as a pastor? “Hi, welcome home.” That’s the short answer. I think the perception is that pastors are A kindergarten teacher. When you meet God, what do you hope God says to you? ’90 AND GUIDO PETER MORLOCK Director of Spiritual Care, Cerenity Senior Care, St. Paul. Spring 2012 21 Senior Pastor, New Hope Lutheran Church/ Iglesia Luterana Nueva Esperanza in North Aurora, Ill. ’01 STEPHANIE QUICK-ESPINOZA 22 Augsburg Now Photo by Sally Ryan As a pastor, what did you learn that you didn’t expect to learn? How to get rid of chickens roosting in the sacristy! What is an issue that you never imagined yourself dealing with as a pastor? Racism. We often feel that our U.S. society is advanced and racism no longer exists, but we are ignorant to and/or ignore how it permeates our lives, culture, and even our church. It is difficult for me to see how racism has affected the lives of the people I have been in ministry with—from Inupiaq in Alaska, to Nicaraguans living in Costa Rica, to Mexicans and other Latinos in the Chicago area. What are some of the most interesting or prominent changes you’ve seen in the church in your career or since you went to seminary? A decrease in the intentionality of becoming an inclusive, multi-cultural church. I would like to see more support of ethnic ministries within our church. For example, there are no longer classes held in Spanish at the seminaries for Spanish-speaking student pastors. What are your own spiritual practices? Where/to whom do you turn for guidance and encouragement? I attend the Spanish worship service on Saturdays at the congregation my husband serves, San Andres Lutheran Church. The mostly Mexican congregation has a great love for the Virgin of Guadalupe (Mary). As a person firmly grounded in Lutheran tradition and faith, I have incorporated the Virgin into my spirituality and turn to her for guidance and encouragement. My Lutheran and Christian faith says that I only need to pray directly to God. I don’t need intercessors, though I find it comforting to ask the Virgin, as mother of our Lord Jesus and mother of all of us, to pray with me. Who at Augsburg inspired or guided you, and how? The whole religion department really inspired me, both academically and in my faith. Their classes were interesting and unique. The quality of the classes helped prepare me, even more than seminary, for ordained ministry. PQ2 (or Phil Quanbeck II), Janelle Bussert, and Lynne Lorenzen especially guided me by always being willing to lend an open ear to listen to my questions about my courses, future seminary plans, and just life in general. They are pastors who were my pastors and helped me become a pastor. Is there a particular passage of scripture that frames your call to ministry? I remember [Professor] Dick Hardel retelling the call of Isaiah to my Youth and Family Ministry class at Augsburg. After Isaiah said, “Here I am, Lord, send me!” I knew I was called to ministry and I also said, “Here I am, Lord, send me!” What is one thing you wish non-clergy knew about your life/identity/call as a pastor? A pastor is on call 24/7, which is really hard on your family life. It is even harder because my husband is a pastor, too. We have people wanting to talk to us starting at 7 a.m. and sometimes we even get calls at 3 a.m. What is one of your most memorable services? When I was a missionary in Costa Rica, one of the congregations I served was only youth and children. Holy Communion was always a powerful experience, as I watched sometimes 80 children come forward to the Lord’s table with their arms outstretched and their hands held out in front of them to receive the sacrament. During a worship service, I noticed that one small boy came through the communion line twice. It was only after the service, I realized it was because he came from an impoverished family and was hungry. After that, I gave every child a whole tortilla, rather then a small piece of bread or a host, during communion. What do you think you would be if you were not a pastor? A religion professor at Augsburg or a firstgrade teacher. When you meet God, what do you hope God says to you? Well done, good and faithful servant. Share your stories… We know these are just a few of the dedicated, inspiring Auggie pastors serving around the world. If you’d like to tell us who you are and what you’re doing, choose your favorite question from those we asked our pastors, and send an answer and a photo to now@augsburg.edu. Or, post it on your personal blog, on Facebook or Twitter, and send us a link. We’d love to hear from you! Spring 2012 23 INTERNATIONAL PROGRAMS 24 Photo Contest A A “Tabacchi” Amanda Rowan ’13 Siena, Italy Landscapes/cityscapes, First place B “The Elder” Susie Mechtel ’13 Maasai Mara, Kenya Portraits, First place C “Afternoon Nap” Jasmine Zand ’12 Dubai, United Arab Emirates Portraits, Second place D E B “Autumn Fjord” Reed Johnson ’12 Flam, Norway Landscapes/cityscapes, Third place “Que Viva Cuba!” Danielle Goodwin ’12 Havana, Cuba Photojournalism, First place F “Iglesia El Rosario” Jakob Anderson ’12 San Salvador, El Salvador Photojournalism, Second place G “Chichicastenango, Guatemala” Danielle Goodwin ’12 Chichicastenango, Guatemala Portraits, Third place Augsburg Now H I C “Recess Stroll” Caleb Wagner ’12 Havana, Cuba Photojournalism, Third place “Shepherd’s Field” Jasmine Zand ’12 Beit Sahour, Palestine Landscapes/cityscapes, Second place To view more student photos, go to www.augsburg.edu/now. D F E H G I Spring 2012 25 AUGGIE WRITERS’ CHALLENGE ith the 2013 launch of the new Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing (see Around the Quad, page 4, and www.augsburg.edu/mfa), Augsburg will welcome even more aspiring writers to the College. To celebrate Augsburg’s tradition of creative writing excellence, we asked Augsburg English Department faculty to help us recruit Auggie alumni writers for a creative writing assignment. The assignment was to write a 250-word piece—of any genre—based on the photo below. We told the writers nothing about the photo—not when or where it was taken or by whom. Following are the stories they crafted. Read their stories first, then see the photographer’s story, below. W Write on! The Cat Kayla Skarbakka ’09, writing consultant, Walden University THE PHOTOGRAPHER’S STORY While studying in Augsburg’s Weekend College program, Philip Pelto ’10 made this self-portrait for a class. He wrote: The photo was taken at my condo in downtown Minneapolis. It’s looking east out over the Depot and the Guthrie Theater, and Augsburg is not too far off in the distance to the right. It’s a self-portrait, and I was experimenting with the lighting. I was trying to get a cool silhouette with the outside in focus. What I wound up getting is this really cool photo that reminds me of where I came from and where I am now. The photo conjures up feelings of success. I’m in my condo, surveying my city, taking it all in. There’s a sense that I’ve made it. Alan found the cat in Mom’s bed, under the sour-smelling comforter. It was a weasely thing, patchy, crusty-eyed. “Did you know about this?” he asked the girls. Erin was folding a sweatshirt, one of the syrupy ones, printed with wildflowers and the words Someone special calls me Grandma. She looked up and gasped. “Where did it come from?” she asked. Helen, who’d been sorting jewelry, glanced up and wrinkled her nose. “The question is, where is it going.” She’d always had an armored sensibility. “You know,” she added, “the boys are allergic.” Alan sat down by the cat. It flicked its tail, which was hooked and jointed like a broken finger. “Um,” said Erin, which was how she started most arguments. “I can’t really bring it on the plane.” “Well,” said Helen, “I certainly won’t take it home.” Alan offered no excuse, and they didn’t him ask for one. They rarely did. They’d had few tussles that day. Alan gave the girls credit for that. A debate about the sofa, one watery altercation regarding Dad’s old Dutch clock, but for the most part, they’d worked efficiently, tallying, dividing, and claiming. Alan claimed little. A bar stool, because one of his had broken. A crucifix, because Helen made him. But otherwise he’d chosen odd jobs, clearing the fridge and garage shelves, and stayed out of the way. It was a tactic he’d learned early on from Dad… To read more of Kayla Skarbakka’s story go to www.augsburg.edu/now 26 Augsburg Now Late Morning Window View Jeremy Anderson ’07, client relations manager, Furnituredealer.net First thing, stop at Charlie’s on the corner for a sweet chai on the go. Catch the rail and scroll the morning news. Work will start soon enough, bustling tables, shit shooting with the regs. Don’t let Old Rick ride you too much because tonight it’s microbrews along St. Anthony Main. Usual sites, different taste (order something the menu describes as dark and complex). Let ’em flow down and just talk and listen and talk back. Try and top ’em. Tell ’em, Tell ’em what you learned, what you read, who you ran into, that thing you Googled the other day and what popped up. Remember when? Remember when? Remember when? And all that shit. It’s good to let it blur. The best is when it blurs into something unclear. My head is warm. My arms, heavy and strong. There’s a pulse in these veins, an exciting calm to the night until eventually I’ll gaze back out this way with an arm snug around my Laura (maybe, hopefully) and a glass of pinot in my other hand as street lamps torch the dark dark sky. Profile Pic Orion Wisness ’03, technical consultant, Kroll Ontrack Here is a man who wants to keep you guessing. He looks away from you but commands your attention by looming large in the patio doors. He chooses a strong stance, a confident pose, all while hiding in the light of day right in front of you. But he appears more hat rack than human. An armless X meant to distract you from the finer points, the tiny details, which expose his personality. You suppose he is doing one of three things in decreasing order of profundity: practicing Zen Croquet, contemplating the evening’s dinner (the size of the grill suggests he consumes a fair share of red meat), or standing fully clothed in the sunlight in order to tan only his face. He has cats and creases in his pants. He’s tidy for sure, but he’s forgotten Mr. Whiskers’ ball near the door jamb. He prefers a shirt with a collar but won’t spring for a rug to wipe his feet when stepping from the balcony. A grocery bag near the grill contains the shadow of a Chihuahua, which makes you wonder why a man so tall would have so tiny a dog? You could puzzle yourself with questions all day, but what you want to do is tap him on the shoulder. The opposite shoulder from where you’re standing. Make him guess where you are, who you are, and what you’re doing. The Apocalypse, as Seen from Unit 24E Jaye Lawrence ’05 WEC, director of web communications, Carleton College Franklin liked order. Neatness. Discipline. He’d been a drill sergeant once, and it showed. You could take the man out of the Army but never the Army out of the man. Military experience was an asset. It kept him alive, and his ragtag band of survivors too. But that need for order? That was a problem. That just might be the thing that finally drove him mad. Franklin no longer lived in an orderly world. “You should be asleep,” chided a voice behind him, thready with age. “Weren’t you supposed to wake me for CQ duty at oh-three hundred?” Esther. Franklin didn’t turn or relax his stance, but the corners of his stern mouth twitched. He didn’t smile much, never had, and he sure as hell didn’t have occasion to anymore—but 83-year-old Esther Rosenberg from 23C, bona fide blue-haired lady, former bane of the condo board of directors, spouting military jargon? That tickled his funny bone. With a slow soft tread of orthopedic shoes, Esther crossed the room to stand beside him. Franklin inspected her with a sidelong glance, granting a curt nod of approval to the pistol accessorizing her polyester pantsuit. Esther always kept his rules. Many who’d been younger, faster, and fitter had not. “Why didn’t you wake me?” “I like seeing the sun come up again.” “Ah.” A sigh, light as a whisper. “Yes, I do too.” Esther patted his arm. She used her left hand, keeping the right free for the pistol. Franklin smiled. Witness Andrea Sanow ’09, administrative assistant, Augsburg College Office of Undergraduate Research and Graduate Opportunity They catch sight of each other’s shoes underneath a bathroom stall, and when they are washing their hands, they are too embarrassed to look each other in the eye. Then, they are strangers the next semester when they take Calculus together. They laugh about being two of the four girls in the room and they bond over the fact that they aren’t going to major in mathematics. And when Emily doesn’t come to class, Rachel worries. Em, where r u? My grandma died, take notes for me. And Rachel goes to the funeral. And they take classes together. And they live together and share clothes and try to learn to cook while they recount the jokes of every day. Then, Rachel travels abroad and one night, from somewhere in South Africa where she has gotten drunk for Em’s 21st birthday, she writes: Here’s what I see on my walk home: a tree that grows at a 90degree angle out of the sidewalk, a woman sitting with a baby, a spraypainted stencil of a tiny red man, a few kids who ask me to say something with my accent, and a man, who every day sees me walk back to my apartment and the triangle from foot to crotch to foot reminds me that somewhere we remember geometry or whatever and you are passing me a note and we’re meeting after class and you’re pissed—I’ve borrowed your favorite pair of shoes. Spring 2012 27 1 3 6 4 C 5 E B D A 7 personality of place STUDENT BREAK ROOM BY STEPHEN GEFFRE 28 Augsburg Now A TEXT MESSAGE GOES OUT AT MIDNIGHT ON JANUARY 1. “HAPPY NEW YEAR! And we are working tomorrow. See you at 6:30 a.m.” The next morning, groggy students stroll into the facilities building, a small gray box behind the ice arena. They make their way through a maze of tools, vehicles, and junk into the far back corner, where they fall onto a plethora of salvaged couches and chairs. Then they fall back to sleep and wait for their boss, Bruce. 1 KOELE—A family tradition since 2006, the Koele brothers (Jason and Kyle) have worked on the grounds crew. The years in green are when only Jason worked, the years in white are when they worked together, and the year in blue is when Kyle was the lone Koele brother. 2 THE MANNEQUIN—She was found in a residence hall trash chute. Over the years, some of the more interesting items from the trash are added to her ensemble. Her accessories have come exclusively from the residence halls. 3 WEST HALL SIGN—The students gather unused and outof-date signs to use as decoration. Almost all of these are from the sign cache in the Luther Hall underground parking lot. 4 THE KUBB TROPHY—Kubb is an ancient Viking game that uses wooden sticks to knock over wooden blocks. The grounds crew and other facilities staff play Kubb in Murphy Square on their summer lunch breaks. Stats are kept throughout the seasons, and the top players are awarded the Kubb trophy (which never leaves the break room). 5 THE HEAD—Found in a residence hall trash chute, the head is used to torment student “B,” Brittany Hecker. It is placed by her when she is sleeping, put in her backpack, or just thrown at her to freak her out. 6 I-94 FLAG—The flags in the Urness/Mortensen hall parking lot along the I-94 corridor are replaced yearly, and the old, tattered flags are distributed among the student crew. Some have even found their way to students’ rooms. 7 THE FURNITURE—All of the furniture has been scavenged from residence hall move-out day in the spring semester. There are enough couches and chairs in the break room so that everyone gets their own, but the Lazyboy recliner is the softest and most coveted chair. It is, therefore, reserved for the grounds crew student supervisor’s hindquarters. 2 F This is a typical start to the new year for a group of Augsburg students who are lucky enough to work for Bruce Rowe, the College’s groundskeeper. With Bruce and assistant groundskeeper Arlen Madigan, these students make sure the grass is clipped, the flowers are pruned, the snow is shoveled, and the campus is maintained year round. One perk of their job is access to the grounds crew student break room— a mixture of reclaimed and repurposed items. According to Kyle Koele, the current student supervisor, the room holds a kind of history and acts as an unofficial museum of Augsburg College. STUDENTS IN PHOTO A—Kyle Koele B—Brittany Hecker C—Mary Hildestad D—Benjamin Grant E—Jacob Haehnel F—Meghan Novak Spring 2012 29 auggies in the front office Supporting the home team Roger Griffith ’84 Last season, he didn’t make any three-point shots, pull down any rebounds, or have any assists on the court. But Roger Griffith ’84, executive vice president of the Minnesota Lynx, did have a great season—in part because the Lynx brought home their first championship title, and in part because of the team’s dedicated fans. Griffith came to the Timberwolves franchise in 1994 as a finance officer. When the Lynx, Minnesota’s Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) team, came to the state in 1999, Griffith took on the role of executive vice president. In that role, he is responsible for making decisions about the head coach and working with the coaching staff on player and personnel relations. He also maintains the team roster and oversees scouting and drafting functions as well as the signing of free agents. Basically, he said, his work supports the coaches so that they can focus on coaching. And that is how he contributed to the Lynx’ winning 2011 season. In October, the team completed its season, beating the Atlanta Dream in a three-game sweep of the WNBA championship series. It was the team’s first championship and first appearance in the playoffs since 2004. “The championship game was very nerve-wracking,” Griffith said. The team was behind at half-time, but Griffith said they weren’t worried. “We had always been a good second-half team, and we knew we had the skills and talent to pull ahead.” They did, but nearly lost their lead in the final minutes of the game. “It was stressful,” Griffith said, “but it was also fun and exciting to see the large number of fans who traveled to Atlanta to support the team.” Griffith said the Lynx fans are one of the best parts of his job. “Last year, through the whole season, it was great to be able to sit in the stands and look away from the game to see how much the experience meant to the people,” he said. “Our fans have been extremely loyal and supportive, and they got their payoff when we took the championship title.” WENDI WHEELER ’06 30 Augsburg Now alumni news FROM THE ALUMNI BOARD PRESIDENT Dear Auggies, n the time since my fall letter, I hope you enjoyed the holiday season with your family and friends, and I hope the new year has begun well for you. With help from our fellow alumni, we have been making a difference in our communities and engaging with our student body. In November, we focused on giving back to the community at our Alumni Board meeting. Partnering with Brian Noy, coordinator of Augsburg’s Campus Kitchen program, we participated in a peanut butter and jelly sandwich-making project and produced 250 sandwiches that were taken to a local homeless shelter. It was a fantastic project and the most fun I can remember ever having at a board meeting! In December, when thousands of Augsburg alumni and friends gathered at Advent Vespers, many brought basic hygiene supplies and warm clothing to donate to the Augsburg Central Health Commons (ACHC), housed at Central Lutheran Church. Alumni who attended the Auggie Night at the Races last summer did the same, helping the center to provide for community members in need. Auggies will have another opportunity to give back on June 5 by participating in a Feed My Starving Children event. Please see details on how to register in the information listed on page 33. I am pleased to announce that alumni engagement is at an all- i s e i augGEg T INVOLVED time high! Alumni event attendance is up by 25 percent compared to last year. We are thrilled to see this progress. It is due in part to your feedback that we have seen such great results. Knowing what events are meaningful and fun for you drives our program development. Thank you for your consistent feedback and participation. In February, the Alumni Board hosted the annual Student and Alumni Networking event. This event consistently attracts alumni who are passionate about being a resource to current students, while providing them the opportunity to reconnect with fellow alumni. If you or someone you know would like to help connect or get connected to alumni or students, please consider attending this event in the future. Another tool to reconnect you with Augsburg and fellow alumni is the Maroon Pages. This online tool helps recognize and promote alumni businesses on the web. It can be used as a marketing tool for the self-employed as well as a resource for students to reach alumni for job hunting or networking. Lastly, I want to lift up the Eye-Opener Breakfasts that are held quarterly at the Town and Country Club in St. Paul and the Strommen Executive Speaker Series, which takes place on campus on a regular basis. These events give alumni opportunities for personal and professional development by hearing from successful leaders within our community. Come to be inspired, to network with peers, and to reconnect with your alma mater. Go to www.augsburg.edu/alumni to learn about all the excellent resources available to Auggie alumni. ROBERT WAGNER II ’02 ALUMNI BOARD PRESIDENT The Augsburg Alumni Association is looking for volunteers to serve on the Alumni Board. All alumni are welcome and encouraged to apply. The Alumni Board is a governing body of the Alumni Association. Together with the Office of Alumni and Constituent Relations, it provides resources and opportunities to engage alumni with the College and each other through consistent communication, inclusive programming, and intentional relationship-building. To apply or get more information, go to www.augsburg.edu/alumni/getinvolved. Spring 2012 31 alumni news What a Legacy! As an Augsburg graduate and as the director of parent and family relations at Augsburg, I was delighted to be a part of the first annual Legacy Family Reception, held at the Augsburg House on January 16. I attended with my two Auggie daughters (Kristin ’09 and Maren ’13) and their dad, Paul Daniels ’79. We had such a lovely evening connecting with other legacy families! Currently, 112 students enrolled in Augsburg’s traditional undergraduate program are part of a legacy family. In other words, each is a child and/or grandchild of an Augsburg graduate. At the reception, Wendy Delesha ’10 MAL said, “I am proud to be an Auggie and to have both of my children be Auggies, too. We will have graduates three years in a row: 2010, 2011, and 2012.” Another Augsburg grad who attended the reception was Howie Smith ’80. He said, “I loved my years at Augsburg and am so, so happy to have my son and daughter here now.” If you would like to encourage a member of your family to become an Auggie, please contact the Office of Admissions at www.augsburg.edu/ admissions and the staff will be happy to connect with your family member. SALLY DANIELS HERRON ’79 L to R: Kristin Daniels ’09, Maren Daniels ’13, Paul Daniels ’79, and Sally Daniels Herron ’79 L to R: Erica Wilson ’12, Cliff Wilson ’11, and Wendy Delesha ’10 MAL SAVE THE DATE FOR homecoming New events along with traditional favorites make this one of the best times to come back to campus. Reconnect with fellow alumni and favorite faculty, and experience the Augsburg of 2012. Watch www.augsburg.edu/homecoming for future information. If you would like to help make your reunion a success, contact the Office of Alumni and Constituent Relations at 612-330-1085 or alumni@augsburg.edu. 32 Augsburg Now SEPTEMBER 24-29, 2012 Reunion Classes 50th Reunion—1962 25th Reunion—1987 40th Reunion—1972 10th Reunion—2002 30th Reunion—1982 Auggie IN RESIDENCE Last fall, Augsburg implemented a new volunteer program, Auggies in Residence—yet another great opportunity for alumni to visit campus to reconnect with the College and its students. Through this speaker series, alumni are invited by faculty to speak at a fall or spring class and then engage in a question-and-answer period with students. Of the 70-plus alumni who have volunteered to serve as an Auggie in Residence, those who have experienced this unique program have been gratified and happy with the opportunity to speak in the classroom and interact with future Auggies. If you think an Auggie in Residence experience is something you would enjoy and you want to share your time and talent, contact Pat Grans at gransp@augsburg.edu or 612-330-1329. Courtesy photo Feed My Starving Children JOIN US ON JUNE 5 Join the Alumni Board at Feed My Starving Children to help pack millions of meals for hungry children in 70 countries. Alumni and friends may volunteer on June 5, 6-7:30 p.m. or 8-9:30 p.m. Register to volunteer with the Augsburg College Alumni group at www.fmsc.org (click “join existing group”). Registration code for 6 p.m. is 205100 and for 8 p.m. is 205101. Last year 75 Auggies gathered together to pack 22,000 meals for hungry children around the world through the Feed My Starving Children program. We are hoping for even greater participation and impact during the upcoming June event. Pictured above [L to R] are Maria (Mitchell) Helgerson ’07, Jennifer Oliver ’07, Brandon Elegert, Stephanie Gnojek, Carolyn Mollner ’07, and Erik Helgerson ’07. Meet Sara Schlipp-Riedel ’06 The Augsburg College Alumni Association welcomes Sara Schlipp-Riedel as the new associate director of alumni and constituent relations. She comes to the department with nearly six years of event and project management experience and is thrilled by the opportunity to engage fellow Auggies. “My primary focus will be to connect with and engage our young alumni and recent graduates,” said SchlippRiedel. “We want to build awareness among current students that their connection with Augsburg doesn’t end once they have received their diploma, and our hope is that there will be a lifelong relationship. I want to develop programming across the board that will cultivate community, instill pride, and emphasize tradition.” Schlipp-Riedel lives in South Minneapolis with her husband, Aaron Riedel ’07, and their one-year-old son, Aidan. She can be reached at 612-330-1178 or schlipp@augsburg.edu. SAVE THE DATE auggie night AT THE RACES August 3, 5-7 p.m. Canterbury Park 1100 Canterbury Road, Shakopee, Minn. Free admission, picnic buffet, and reserved seating provided. Go to www.augsburg.edu/ alumnievents to register. Spring 2012 33 alumni news AUGSBURG YOUNG ALUMNI HOLIDAY PARTY 2011 YOUNG ALUMNI summer series To register for Young Alumni events or to see the full calendar of events at Augsburg, go to www.augsburg.edu/alumni. May 31, 5:30-7:30 p.m. 1900 Marshall St. NE, Minneapolis Live music, one complimentary beverage, and appetizers provided. Courtesy photo PSYCHO SUZI’S MOTOR LOUNGE June 21, 6-9 p.m. Since it launched in 2009, the Young Alumni Summer Series has been an incredible success, engaging young alumni and recent graduates through unique programming. In 2011, the Young Alumni Council expanded the program to include a winter event by hosting the first Young Alumni Holiday Party in December at La Meridien Chambers Hotel in downtown Minneapolis. The event was a huge success and will be added to future programming. YOGA BOAT CRUISE Afton Hudson Cruise Lines 500 1st St., Hudson, Wisc. $15 includes one-hour yoga session, boat cruise, appetizers, and one complimentary beverage. SPACE IS LIMITED. July 18, 5-7 p.m. MINNESOTA TWINS GAME Hubert’s and Target Field $30 includes ticket to game with seating in the Pavilion, appetizers, and two complimentary beverages at Hubert’s. 5-7 p.m. Pre-game at Hubert’s, 600 1st Ave. N., Minneapolis 7:10 p.m. Twins vs. Orioles August 3, 5-7 p.m. Canterbury Park 1100 Canterbury Rd., Shakopee, Minn. Free admission, picnic buffet, and reserved seating provided. September 28, 6-8 p.m. HOMECOMING 2012: YOUNG ALUMNI RECEPTION Republic 221 Cedar Ave. S., Minneapolis Two complimentary beverages and appetizers provided. Join the AUGSBURG COLLEGE YOUNG ALUMNI FACEBOOK GROUP to get the full scoop! 34 Augsburg Now Courtesy photo AUGGIE NIGHT AT THE RACES L to R: Rebecca Lewis ’07, Aili Brom-Palkowski ’07, Felicia Faison ’09, and Shannon Olson ’07 save the date December 7, 8:30-11:30 p.m. YOUNG ALUMNI HOLIDAY—UGLY SWEATER PARTY Location TBD To register, go to www.augsburg.edu/alumnievents. past meets present A Journey to the Holy Land: EXPLORING THE PAST, THE PRESENT, AND THE PEOPLE Courtesy photo When the travelers heard about the work of the Parent Circle For 10 days in January, a group of 28 Auggies explored the Holy Family Forum (comprised of bereaved Israeli and Palestinian famiLand with Philip Quanbeck II, associate professor of religion, and lies who have lost family members in the conflict, and who support Ruth Johnson ’74, former Augsburg College Regent. peace, reconciliation, and tolerance), Turner was particularly imWhen the group arrived, Larry Turner ’69 was surprised at the pressed by the gentleman who spoke of losing his son in the last contrast in terrain—not only was it more rugged than expected, but parts looked like fertile farmland, especially around Galilee. In addi- week of military service. This Israeli father was soon drawn into the tion to the warm Palestinian welcome, he was struck by many of the historical sites, several of which Herod the Great had built—Masada, the palace in Jerusalem, and Caesarea (where Herod insisted on building a harbor, even though his architects advised against it). From a religious point of view, Turner said it was very moving to visit the Mount of Beatitudes, the Sea of Galilee, the Mount of Olives, Capernaum, Primacy of Peter, Gethsemane, and the Via Dolorosa—the very places Jesus walked some 2,000 years ago. For Turner, images of the region’s past were soon overlaid with realities of the Holy Land of today, especially on a tour bus when the guide pointed to a nearby village in Lebanon and then a fence bordering Syria. He noticed yellow signs reading “Danger, Mines” on a fence along the side of the road. Though Turner didn’t feel endangered during the trip, he Front Row [L to R]: Sandy Prince, Sally Daniels Herron ’79, Charlie Green, Barb Green, Ruth Johnson ’74, Sharon Carlson ’72, Terri Rummans, Mary Kinney ’04, Donna McLean; Middle Row [L to R]: Yousef Eideh (our guide), Larry Turner ’69, Sue Turner, found the most distressing aspect to be the Jennie Wilson, Phil Quanbeck II, Nancy Sampair, Susan Carlson, Liz Weninger ’92, Judy Coppersmith ’66, Lee Furman ’61; wall between Jerusalem and Bethlehem. Back Row [L to R]: Barbara Bruce, Sharon Mortrud ’64, Scott Anderson ’96, Judy Reeve ’95, Jeff Gotfredson ’82, Kirk Gill, When Palestinian Lutheran pastor Rev. Paul Kilgore ’80, Becky Kilgore, Jim Weninger ’92, Heidi Hunter Mitri Raheb spoke to the group about his ministry in Bethlehem, he described three areas of focus: culture, forum, where he met a Palestinian who had also lost someone. As a education, and health. Culturally, the ministry helps Palestinians result, his thoughts about the conflict evolved from quite hawkish to deal with identity issues and obtain meaningful work, and it promore conciliatory. In pairs, members of the forum (one Israeli, one vides a place for concerts, art, and theater. Educating the youth is Palestinian) make regular visits to schools in an effort to help another priority since 55 percent of the population is under the younger people think more seriously about the human aspects as age of 18. Dar al-Kalima College, Bethlehem’s new Lutheran colthey consider military expectations. lege (the first in the Middle East), will certainly aid in those efforts Turner and his wife, Sue, have traveled a fair amount since he reas well, providing studies in art, music, communication, and mantired after 38 years with Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railway, but agement. The ministry also offers opportunities in women’s sports, this trip was special, he said. It felt like a real pilgrimage for him. eldercare, and preventive health, helping people learn how to take CHERYL CROCKETT ’89 better care of themselves. Spring 2012 35 alumni class notes Norm Larsen and Jerome “JD” 34Detviler ’74 were inducted into the Saint Paul Park (Minnesota) High School Athletic Hall of Fame in November. Larsen was the head football coach at Park for 10 years and served as Park’s athletic director until his retirement in 1977. Detviler was a soccer, Nordic skiing, and track and field coach at Park. Herb Chilstrom, former presiding bishop of the ELCA, released his autobiography, A Journey of Grace: The Formation of a Leader and a Church (Lutheran University 54 Press). The book is a reflective account of his family roots, childhood, education, and pastoral and teaching career. It tells of his life as bishop, his role in the formation of the ELCA, and his ministry as the first presiding bishop. In June, Richard “Dick” Thorud 56was inducted into the Min- nesota Inventors Hall of Fame. The award was based largely on the 80 patents he was awarded as a principal research engineer with the Toro Company. Corrine (Froelich) Frank 73became a grandmother for the first time in December, when grandson Weston Leslie Frank was born. Steven Resnicek was ap- 74pointed interim director of the Bemidji State University concert choir for the spring 2012 semester. Resnicek is an adjunct faculty member in the music department at Bemidji State. David Larson and Kate Sholon- 77ski released their book, Wide auggieSNAPSHOTS Awake: Three Minutes a Day to an Inspired Life! in Novem- 36 ber. This volume is filled with personal stories of challenge, triumph, empowerment, and motivation. Linda (Slater) Thoni was se- 88lected by the Art Educators of Minnesota (AEM) as the Elementary Art Educator of the Year for the State of Minnesota. She has been employed by the Byron School District for 12 years. AEM annually recognizes teachers who have made significant contributions to AEM, the state of Minnesota, and their school or organization. Award recipients have demonstrated dedication, achievement, and professionalism in the art education field. Members of the class of ’81 met in October in Cable, Wisc., for 81their annual Augsburg reunion. Pictured [L to R]: Mary Beamish, a copy editor at the Duluth News Tribune who is rehabbing a 1920s house in Duluth; Susan (Dahlgren) Sackrison, a history teacher at Lakeville High School; Maureen Webster, a grandma, an Army mom, and a Title I teacher at Sunnyside Elementary in Mounds View; Laura Kasdorf, a master gardener who coordinates the Community Garden in Chippewa Falls, Wisc.; Mary Lou (Schlosser) Suss of Louisiana, who misses being able to grow rhubarb; Janna (Wallin) Haug, who just returned from four years with the ELCA Global Mission in Slovakia. Karla (Morken) Thompson graduated from 81the College of St. Scholastica with a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree in August. She has worked at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn. for 30 years and is a staff physical therapist specializing in women’s health and vestibular rehabilitation. Heidi Anderson gave birth to Jim Lindell and Karri (Birkholz) 04Lindell ’03 were married on July 16, at Central Lutheran Church in Minneapolis. Auggies in the wedding party were Kim Birkholz ’05, Britni (Morgan) Robertson ’05, Jeremy Robertson ’05, Travis Kalis, Tom Delisle ’04, Jeff Willihnganz ’04, Kyle Howard ’04, Jillian (Janicki) Howard ’04, Nick Collins ’04, Stefanie (Lindell) Lender ’98, Bruce Lender ’98, Jason Luhrs ’96, and Melissa (Luhrs) Gooder ’93. Karri is a brokerage product manager at Ameriprise Financial, and Jim is a corporate account manager at Choice Communications. They live in Maple Grove, Minn. Janine (Borchardt) Kellogg 93Soren Russell in May 2011. 04and her partner, Jennifer Heidi has worked for GE Lighting in Cleveland, Ohio, since 1999. Kellogg, welcomed baby boy Sawyer Jay on August 8. Becky (Welle) Winters and Paul 05Winters ’07 welcomed Maximilian Robert on August 17. Marette (Hoffman) 09Hahn married Justin Hahn on August 26, in Mendota Heights, Minn. Other Auggies involved included Leah Jarvi ’09 (bridesmaid), Shonna Fulford ’09 (personal attendant), Amber Stransky ’07 (personal attendant), and Kendra (Christiansen) Oxendale ’10 (photographer). Mateo Martin Irby was born on September 7, to Joanne K. Reeck-Irby and Cornelius M. Irby. Joanne is the director of campus activities and orientation at Augsburg. The Political History and Landmarks 91 In a January special election, Marathon Road in January. The film features Augsburg cross country/track and field head coach Dennis Barker, a trainer for Team USA distance athletes. The film was produced through Sanft’s company, Ideatap Studios. of South Africa and Namibia: AUGUST 2013 Courtesy photo Tom Kerr was named Administrator of the Year by the Iowa Reading Association. Kerr has served as the principal of BoydenHull Elementary School in Boyden, Iowa, for six years. Jennifer (Richter) and Dylan 92Susan Allen was elected to the 07Soberg ’06 welcomed baby After nearly eight years, Heather Johnston left the City of Minneapolis to become the CFO and director of administrative services for the City of Burnsville, Minn. In that capacity, she oversees finance, communications, community relations, city clerk, and information technology operations. In addition, she was recently appointed to the executive board of the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) of the United States and Canada. boy Alexander David on October 10. Emily Crook, a 2007 graduate and a current student in the Master of Arts in Education program, married David Hamm ’08 on October 8, 2010, in Duluth, Minn. Many other Auggies were in attendance to celebrate with the couple and their families. Angela (Barron) and Charles 08Brewer welcomed Emma Rose on November 17. In November, Dave Lange began a career at Ameriprise Financial in life insurance sales. George Hemmingsen and his Jesus (Alex) Hernandez Herrera was promoted to senior director, principal gifts, in the Northwestern University (Illinois) Office of Alumni Relations and Development in September. 95 Heather Savage has been writ- 01ing (under HK Savage) and editing and opened her own publishing company, Staccato Publishing. Staccato’s purpose is to help authors who want to publish their work but aren’t sure how to navigate the twists and turns on the road to publishing. 09brother Grant Hemmingsen, both 2009 graduates, are assistant basketball coaches at Kentucky Wesleyan College. George is in his second year with KWC and his first year as top assistant coach, and Grant is in his first year as assistant coach. Katie Wornson was named to the Volunteers of America-Minnesota board of directors in December. Volunteers of America is a nonprofit human service organization headquartered in Edina, Minn. Julia Sewell and her colleague Jennifer (Langman) and husband Kevin Reese welcomed Elsie Marie on November 8. 02 Tony Geckler completed a 05Master of Social Work degree from St. Catherine University/University of St. Thomas in August. In November, he passed his licensed graduate social worker examination. Augsburg cross country/track and field alumni Paul Sanft ’05, Dan Vogel ’05, Riley Conway ’05, and Tori Bahr ’09 released their documentary 10and partner, Don Patterson, are touring the United States spreading messages of youth voice and action, leadership, and educational reform through their 2011-2012 SWAG (Sharing Wisdom Amongst our Generation) tour concluding in April. Sandra (Albrecht) Sutton married Michael Sutton on August 27, 2010. The couple resides in Baldwin, Wisc., where Sandra works as a sponsor services analyst with Wells Fargo. Namib Desert Join Augsburg alumni and friends on this 12-day tour to learn about Namibia and South Africa’s shared political past and to see the popular tourist attractions and landmarks this history has created. Learn firsthand about this region’s struggle against apartheid while visiting the acclaimed Apartheid Museum, Cape Point where the Dutch conquerors landed and built a lighthouse, and Robben Island where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned. Tour the former black and colored townships in Windhoek and Johannesburg and hear from a cross-section of Southern African society. Discover how the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Namibia, with a total membership of more than 700,000, mainly in Northern Namibia, played a significant role in opposition to apartheid and was part of the Namibian independence struggle. The Namibia portion of the trip will also include a visit to the Etosha Game Reserve and the Namib Desert, the site of the world’s highest sand dunes. This trip is offered by the Alumni Association in partnership with the Center for Global Education (CGE) at Augsburg College. For 30 years, CGE has provided cross-cultural educational opportunities that foster critical analysis of local and global conditions so that personal and systemic change takes place, leading to a more just and sustainable world. To request more details about the trip, call 612-330-1085 or email alumni@augsburg.edu. namibia and south africa Minnesota House of Representatives to represent District 61B. Allen is the first Native American woman to serve in the Minnesota House. Spring 2012 37 A phone call. An e-mail. A diploma. When Jennifer Ivers ’13 e-mailed Larry Couture ’79 as part of her work with Augsburg’s IGNITE program, she couldn’t have imagined the chain of events that would transpire—or that she would end up with an internship as a result. Through IGNITE (Involving Graduates Now in Thoughtful Engagement), current Augsburg students connect with alumni to help them find ways to engage with the College. But when Ivers contacted Couture, she was surprised by his e-mail response. “He sent a short essay explaining why he wasn’t really excited about meeting with me,” she said. It turns out that Couture thought he graduated from Augsburg in 1979 but found out in 2006, when he tried to apply for admission to a graduate program, that his transcript was incomplete. Couture had been one religion course short of completing his graduation requirements in the spring of 1979 and had returned to Augsburg that summer to complete the final class. That course was never posted, but Couture didn’t suspect anything because he’d moved to a new apartment and thought perhaps his diploma had just been lost in the mail. After receiving Couture’s e-mail, Ivers told him that she would like to help him. She said she would forward his e-mail to her boss, who could bring his issue to the attention of the Dean, and together they would try to resolve the situation. “He said that after this long he didn’t think it really mattered, but if I could help, he thought that would be great,” Ivers said. And help she did. On February 1, more than 30 years after he thought he graduated, On February 1, more than 30 years after completing his graduation requirements, Larry Couture ‘79—pictured here with Jennifer Ivers ’13, a summer intern at Couture’s company—received his Augsburg College diploma. nt llege Commenceme 1979 Augsburg Co Larry Couture received his Augsburg College diploma and became a member of the class of 1979. Couture was so impressed with Ivers’ tenacity, as well as her speaking and writing skills, that he asked her to work as a summer intern for his company ECOSmarte, a Richfield, Minn.-based manufacturer of nonsalt, non-chemical water technology for ’79 LARRY COUTURE swimming pools and spas. The relationship has also led to an internship for a second Augsburg student. “This has been one of the more fulfilling aspects of my position,” Ivers said. “The IGNITE program aims to re-involve alumni on campus, and what’s a better way to involve someone than finally getting them their diploma?” WENDI WHEELER ’06 38 Augsburg Now Send us your news and photos Please tell us about the news in your life, your new job, move, marriage, and births. Don’t forget to send photos! (Digital photos must be at least 300 dpi or a 1MB file.) For news of a death, printed notice is required, e.g., an obituary, funeral notice, or program from a memorial service. Send your news items, photos, or change of address by mail to: Augsburg Now Class Notes, Augsburg College, CB 146, 2211 Riverside Ave., Minneapolis, MN 55454, or e-mail alumni@augsburg.edu. You can also submit news at www.augsburg.edu/alumni. ____________________________________________________________ Full name ____________________________________________________________ Maiden name ____________________________________________________________ Class year or last year attended In Memoriam ____________________________________________________________ Street address Edward L. Evenson ’41, age 93, on September 28 ____________________________________________________________ City, State, ZIP code Verlinda L. (Olson) Huus ’42, age 91, on September 19 Carol A. (Hibbard) Kirtley ’42, age 88, on October 22 Vivian A. (Larson) Loren ’43, age 89, on September 23 Is this a new address? q Yes q No ____________________________________________________________ Home telephone H. Daniel Frojen ’45, age 87, on September 18 J. Bernhard Bretheim ’48 on August 2 ____________________________________________________________ E-mail Ruth O. (Holm) Sawyer ’48, age 83, on January 18 Okay to publish your e-mail address? q Yes q No Evelyn (Green) Harris ’49 on June 29 John H. Wetzler ’49, age 88, on January 22, 2011 Raymond J. Bodin ’50, age 93, on October 27 ____________________________________________________________ Employer ____________________________________________________________ Position Jean (Kuklish) Knudsen ’50, age 83, on July 12 Robert G. “Bob” Smith ’51, age 89, on October 24 ____________________________________________________________ Work telephone Edwin O. Silrum ’53, age 90, on September 12 Is spouse also a graduate of Augsburg College? q Yes q No Elizabeth G. (Hagen) Carlson ’56, age 76, on November 26 If yes, class year ________________________________________________ Roger Lecander ’56, age 77, on July 17 ____________________________________________________________ Spouse’s name John T. Thompson ’56, age 76, on February 28, 2011 Loren G. Berkness ’60, age 82, on February 21, 2011 Bernard A. “Bernie” Onsager ’65, age 82, on September 28 ____________________________________________________________ Maiden name Beverly Jean (Mattson) Conboy ’73, age 59, on September 10 Your news: ____________________________________________________________ Nancy (Kerber) Anderson ’74, age 59, on November 18 ____________________________________________________________ Janice L. Phinney ’74, age 58, on July 30 ____________________________________________________________ Jody (Anderson) Sundlee ’79, age 56, on December 6 ____________________________________________________________ Patrick D. Hurley ’84, age 49, on March 3, 2011 George C. Ogbonna ’88, age 55, on December 26 ____________________________________________________________ q I know a student who is interested in attending Augsburg. Henry G. Parsons ’04 MSW, age 59, on January 26, 2011 Spring 2012 39 it takes an Auggie During fall 2011, 26 student callers dialed 37,925 times, spoke with 3,178 constituents (parents, friends, and alumni), and raised almost 700 gifts totaling $66,574. Meet our Augsburg Fund callers ANYA CLEAVER Major: Political science, minors in German and communication studies Hometown: Technically, Buxton, England Activities and interests: Queer and Straight in Unity (QSU), Echo newspaper, Augsburg Atheist and Secular Humanist group Interesting fact about me: I moved to Minnesota at age 12 from a town outside of Manchester, England, because England is drab and rainy. KALEB WILLIAMS Favorite things about Augsburg and the city: I’m a film buff, and I love the independent movie theaters. I also like the riverfront and Harriet Island in St. Paul. Major: Public relations and advertising Hometown: Lakeville, Minn. Activities and interests: Football Interesting fact about me: I always say I’m like an old black man; I have an old soul. I think I would have fit in well in the 60s or 70s. Favorite things about Augsburg and the city: It’s such a diverse place, and everyone seems to get along well. Every day I feel like I meet someone new. Favorite Augsburg experience: The football game last season against St. Thomas. It was a home game, and the stands were packed. At the time, we were the top two teams in the MIAC, so it was pretty exciting. 40 Augsburg Now My favorite Augsburg experience: I was a summer orientation leader and got to connect with many students from different backgrounds. It helped me learn about being more inclusive, and I made a lot of friends. KATHERINE WALKER Major: International relations, minor in peace and global studies and religion Hometown: Brainerd, Minn. Activities and interests: Study Japanese, volunteer tutor, editor for the Honors Review Interesting fact about me: I plan to go to Vietnam this summer to teach English at the British Embassy. Favorite things about Augsburg and the city: I love Augsburg’s emphasis on community service. I think that if I had gone to another college, it wouldn’t have given me such an introduction to the community. I feel like I live in this neighborhood; I don’t just go to school here. Favorite Augsburg experience: I went to El Salvador to take a class over winter break two years ago with assistant religion professor Matt Maruggi. We studied liberation theology, and we got to interact with local people, community activists, and religious leaders. We stayed in a small self-sufficient community in the middle of the jungle, and there were baby pigs running around. AN LEGACY Dr. Gerald Mindrum “I shall always remember the personal influence of many Augsburg professors on my life and career, and also appreciate the continued support of Augsburg to communities—both at the neighborhood and the global scale. I hope my charitable gift annuity will foster a similar experience for future students.” 1-800-273-0617 www.augsburg.edu/giving 2211 Riverside Avenue Minneapolis, MN 55454 The Gage Center for Student Success and Groves Technology Center The Gage Center for Student Success and Groves Technology Center have quickly become a hub of student activity. This photo, created by merging 10 different photographs together, is a still life time-lapse image showing how this common space is constantly being used by all members of the community. Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Twin Cities, MN Permit No. 2031
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Title: Augsburg Now Summer 2011: Auggies Go Global
Collection: Alumni Magazine Collection
Search Result: AUGSBURG NOW SUMMER 2011 VOL. 73, NO. 3 inside auggies Augsburg Now The Magazine of Augsburg College 25Awesome Years of Life-Changing internships Commencement 2011 Ali Rapp ’11 Gage Center for Student Success Travel International Auggies Ask an Auggie expert page 20 Achievement in the ...
Show more AUGSBURG NOW SUMMER 2011 VOL. 73, NO. 3 inside auggies Augsburg Now The Magazine of Augsburg College 25Awesome Years of Life-Changing internships Commencement 2011 Ali Rapp ’11 Gage Center for Student Success Travel International Auggies Ask an Auggie expert page 20 Achievement in the classroom Nick Ward ’11 go global notes from President Pribbenow Assistant Vice President of Marketing and Communication Rebecca John rjohn@augsburg.edu Creative Associate-Editorial Wendi Wheeler ’06 wheelerw@augsburg.edu Creative Director Kathy Rumpza ’05 MAL rumpza@augsburg.edu Education off the main road Creative Associate-Design a s I write these words for the summer issue of the Augsburg Now—which includes stories illustrating Augsburg’s vision of educating global citizens—I am in Oslo, Norway, attending an international conference on the links between higher education and democracy, and also spending time with Augsburg students studying peace and conflict mediation at the University of Oslo. I am struck by how relevant Augsburg’s longstanding commitment to what I call an “education off the main road” is to preparing our students for life in the 21st century. A simple story illustrates my point. In a trip last fall to Augsburg’s Center for Global Education (CGE) campus in Windhoek, Namibia, I remember looking out at the sparkling lights as I was hosted at a dinner in an ultra-modern restaurant high above the city. All was well, it seemed, as I waited for my dinner companions to arrive. But the view from our perch above the city, nestled in an obviously affluent subdivision of the burgeoning city, belied my experiences earlier in the day. I had witnessed the remnants of an apartheid system. Formerly separate cemeteries for whites, colored, and blacks. Housing that was clearly demarcated by tribal class. Primary and secondary schools stratified by social class. A sprawling tin village—the so-called “informal settlements”—in which tens of thousands of Namibians lived in squalor, unable to find work after they arrived in the city and were left to their own devices to survive. Health clinics with waiting rooms full of women seeking both prenatal care and HIV tests. Non-governmental organizations struggling to serve the needs of indigenous people whose rights were neglected. The stark contrasts of the day were mindbending. My dinner companions arrived—a labor activist and a teacher working to improve education for indigenous people—and as I described our day in Windhoek, one of them commented that he was grateful I had witnessed these contrasts because too many outsiders come to Namibia and travel only “the main road,” from which all seems well. I had left that main road and experienced the real Namibia. My experience that day was a snapshot of what our CGE students encounter each semester in Namibia as they participate in intense experiences that open their eyes to the life-transforming dynamics of life in this developing country. Through extended homestays in both urban and rural areas, internships with organizations doing important social and educational work, classes that feature speakers who have firsthand experience of the tensions in Namibia’s life, and opportunities for significant interaction with Namibian people and culture, our students experience life off the main road in this remarkable country, just 22 years after it declared independence. And when these students return home to the U.S., we know they carry with them knowledge and experiences of this place and its good people that will shape the decisions they make about their own lives and what they might be called to do in the world. Some may return to Africa, perhaps as medical workers or teachers. But most will not, and, for them, we trust and know that their experiences off the main road in Namibia will help them understand their own privilege in an increasingly complex world—privilege that must be named and then put to responsible use in the search for equity and justice, both in their personal lives and in the systems they inhabit. Off the main road in Namibia, off the main road wherever Augsburg offers its distinctive education for global citizenship. I’m only beginning to understand how critical our work as a college is in transforming the lives of students and contributing to a different vision of our common future as global citizens. Jen Nagorski ’08 nagorski@augsburg.edu Photographer Stephen Geffre geffre@augsburg.edu Director of News and Media Services Stephanie Weiss weisss@augsburg.edu Webmaster/Now Online Bryan Barnes barnesb@augsburg.edu Sports Information Director Don Stoner stoner@augsburg.edu Director of Alumni and Constituent Relations Kim Stone stonek@augsburg.edu www.augsburg.edu Augsburg Now is published by Augsburg College 2211 Riverside Ave. Minneapolis, MN 55454 Opinions expressed in Augsburg Now do not necessarily reflect official College policy. ISSN 1058-1545 Send address corrections to: Advancement Services CB 142 Augsburg College 2211 Riverside Ave. Minneapolis, MN 55454 langemo@augsburg.edu E-mail: now@augsburg.edu PAUL C. PRIBBENOW, PRESIDENT summer 2011 Features 11 6 “Problem” students become problem solvers BY WENDI WHEELER ’06 14 21 Auggies are everywhere BY STEPHANIE WEISS . 16 Gloria Xinico Morales ’12 A girl of the world 17 Max Bregenzer ’12 Living life to the Max 17 Erica Lippitt ’12 Family teamwork creates a world of possibility 18 Jiahua (Holly) Huang ’12 Holly is a regular Minnesotan 8 14 18 Dat Nguyen ’11 contents Unlocking possibilities and potential at Augsburg 26 19 Faiza Abbas Mahamud ’11 A life that defies definition 20 Ibrahim Al-Hajiby ’14 Life in the United States: Different, but not weird 21 26 Real experience in the working world BY WENDI WHEELER ’06 Commencement 2011 BY WENDI WHEELER ’06 Departments On the cover International Auggies Gloria Xinico Morales, Alom Martínez, Zebokhon Tursunova, and Gottlieb Uahengo have fun at a Minneapolis landmark, Claes Oldenburg and Coosje van Bruggen’s Spoonbridge and Cherry. All photos by Stephen Geffre unless otherwise indicated. augsburg now inside front cover 2 6 8 9 10 28 32 Notes from President Pribbenow Around the Quad My Auggie experience Auggies on the track It takes an Auggie Auggie voices Alumni news Class notes quad around the NEWSNOTES National fellowship and scholarship awards Fulbright Awards, 2011-12 • Katie Edelen ’11, majoring in chemistry, biology, and environmental studies, received a Fulbright Research Grant to Norway. She will study and carry out research at the Peace Research Institute of Oslo. (See story page 10.) Urban Debate League success at nationals Two teams from the Minnesota Urban Debate League (UDL), part of Augsburg’s Sabo Center for Citizenship and Learning, were among the top 10 teams in the country at the National Urban Debate League (NAUDL) tournament in New York in April. A student debater from each of the two teams—Washburn and South high schools—placed seventh and eighth respectively in individual speaker competition. Newberry Library Fellowship to Michael Lansing Michael Lansing, assistant professor of history, received the Lloyd Lewis Fellowship in American History for 2011–12. The fellowship will support the ongoing work of his book-length research project on the Nonpartisan League. Norma Noonan honored for long-term direction of the MAL program Norma Noonan was honored this spring after stepping down as director of the Master of Arts in Leadership (MAL) program. Throughout her 18 years of directing and teaching in the program, Noonan has been both a leader and a shaper of leaders. Since the mid-’90s, Noonan has had an exceptionally steady hand in leading the ongoing development of the MAL program and the Leadership Center. Students have appreciated her accessibility, encouragement, and clarity. Although she is leaving the director position, Noonan will continue to teach at Augsburg and support the College’s commitment to leadership. 2 Augsburg Now • Jennifer Oliver, a graduate student in education and former financial aid counselor in the Enrollment Center, received a Fulbright English Teaching Assistantship in Germany. Goldwater Scholarship—Math major Austin Wagner ’12 received Honorable Mention for a Barry S. Goldwater Scholarship. Newman Civic Fellows—Claire Bergren ’12 was honored by Campus Compact for her community work around racial justice and social issues linked to poverty. Rotary Ambassadorial Scholarship—Katie Edelen will pursue graduate study in environmental management in 2012–13. Udall Scholarship—Kathy DeKrey ’12, an environmental studies and political science pre-law double major, has been awarded a Udall Scholarship for 2011–12. Top green power purchaser Augsburg College has been recognized by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as the 2010-11 top green power purchaser in the Minnesota Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (MIAC). Augsburg College purchased more than 13 million kilowatt-hours of green power, representing 100 percent of the school’s annual electricity usage on the Minneapolis campus. This is the equivalent to avoiding the carbon dioxide emissions from the electricity use of more than 1,000 average U.S. homes or nearly 2,000 cars annually. EXCELLENCE in research In April 2011, Jeremy Anthony, a senior Presidential Award for mathematics major, represented Augsburg College in the Council on Undergraduate Research Posters on Community Service the Hill event. This event, held each year in Washington, D.C., showcased Metropolitan Regional Arts Council Awards Augsburg College earned two $10,000 grants from the Metropolitan Regional Arts Council for programs recognized for providing “high-quality, age-appropriate arts education.” Medieval Minnesota: This one-week boarding camp for students ages 14 to17 reimagines life during the Middle Ages. Students study medieval history, the Crusades, castle design, and the history of labyrinths. They also learn to build a medieval costume, juggle, dance, fence, and entertain. The camp, in its fifth year, attracts students from across the United States and Canada. For more information, go to www.augsburg.edu/medievalminnesota. Centro Youth Workshop: This summer photography workshop provides 10 youths from metropolitan Latino/Chicano communities the opportunity to develop technical and artistic photography skills. The program, which is in its second year, is a partnership between the College and Centro, a Minneapolis-based social service nonprofit. Learn more at http://overexposuremedia.org/. the research of 75 undergraduate stu- Courtesy photo Augsburg is one of six higher education institutions in the nation to receive the 2010 Presidential Award for Community Service from the Corporation for National and Community Service. This is the highest award given that recognizes institutions for their commitment to and achievement in community service, and Augsburg is the only Minnesota school to receive this honor. In three previous years, the College has been named to the President’s Honor Roll with the additional designation of “With Distinction.” During the 2009-10 school year, Auggies contributed nearly 200,000 hours of community service to programs, including course-based servicelearning, Bonner Leaders, Campus Kitchen, community gardens, GEMS/GISE/STEM summer programs, Urban Scrubs Camp, and more. More than 1,700 students and 200 faculty and staff participated in service-learning last year. dents from colleges and universities across the country. L to R: Isanti mayor George Wimmer, Senator Al Franken, and Clayton McNeff ’91, vice president of research at SarTec Corporation. SENATOR FRANKEN visits Ever Cat Fuels On April 21, U.S. Senator Al Franken visited Ever Cat Fuels in Isanti, Minn., which can produce three million gallons of biodiesel each year using the Mcgyan Process. In 2008, the discovery of the Mcgyan Process began with student research by Brian Krohn ’08, along with chemistry professor Arlin Gyberg. The process received its first patent in March 2011. Augsburg receives second grant for Travelers EDGE Augsburg received a second gift from Travelers Insurance for their Empowering Dreams for Graduation and Employment (EDGE) program. This program focuses on college recruitment and retention of low-income and first-generation students. In Minnesota, the focus is specifically on students graduating from the St. Paul Public School district. The $100,000 grant will be used for Augsburg’s Travelers Pathways program for financial literacy training, which is open to all students. Current Augsburg juniors and seniors who graduated from a St. Paul public high school may be eligible to apply for a $5,000 annual scholarship, which brings with it opportunities for job shadowing, internships, and mentoring. Summer 2011 3 In Memoriam: Jessica Nathanson Jessica Nathanson, assistant professor and director of the women’s studies program and the Women’s Resource Center at Augsburg College, died April 5 of breast cancer. Nathanson’s passion for and knowledge of social justice and gender issues was instrumental in shaping the women’s studies community at Augsburg. Nathanson earned a BA from Wesleyan University and an MA and PhD from the State University of New York at Buffalo. She co-edited the book Mother Knows Best: Talking Back to the “Experts” and enjoyed a wide following as a blogger on feminist issues. The following is an excerpt of an original spoken word piece read by Lucreshia Grant ’11 at the multifaith service in Hoversten Chapel to remember and celebrate Nathanson’s life. An excerpt from There are so much things to say By Lucreshia Grant ’11 For Jessica Nathanson There are so much things to say right now There are so much things to say There are so much things to say right now There are so much things to say … Friends, let me tell you If we had the time to recall every moment where in which this woman made me feel like I could levitate, I swear it’d take all day… This is a piece about praise today because, if there was bad between us I just can’t remember it I never knew I could float with pride this way. I came in here rusty and naïve, too big for my own britches You saw a light in me and followed it My writing then, was sloppy, holey and dishonest There are times when writing for an audience is just plain perjury And every time I lifted my pen from this paper in disbelief Turned my palms up in discouragement You calmly, proclaimed that “That must be the oppression talking.” That day I thought my heart would beat right through my ribcage I never imagined that someone might get it Get me, get this I love you, for the tears you allowed me to cry, often and The beauty you believed me to write And I can’t help believing that we were meant to be in a space like SVERDRUP 207 warm and complicated in the differences between us 4 Augsburg Now age, race, class, time, distance there is love in that and we confronted it daily learning that oppression sometimes smells like privilege and power doesn’t always have to be dominance you are my best memory about this place and I know we’re not done Cuz you African dance through my dreams Reminding me of the freedom I already keep, on my tongue You’re in my windpipe Part of the cadence and confidence in my voice You’re the social justice in my strut I won’t lower my head in fear again Eyes forward ready to stand completely still with another You gave me grace, honored me with respect Not just a Black woman on a stage to you…clap me a round of “thanks and that was beautifuls” But she knew the truth. Knew I was a Queen, believed my words and told me. There are so much things to say I have so much to say, but I can say nothing fully at all. Thanks for all the books and Reminding me that I can do this Thanks for believing in feminism enough to teach it. Thanks for loving us as much as you did Thanks for loving me It’s not over, we’re not done You’ll see Because This place became a home for me because you were in it It is better because you graced it Because you believed it I am better Jessica, thank you! CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR RETIRING TENURED FACULTY Retiring faculty were honored at the Faculty Recognition Luncheon on May 5. Nora Braun, Business Administration Nora Braun has been described as a role model for successfully balancing the demands of professional and personal responsibilities with incredible patience, integrity, and humor during her 14 years at Augsburg. A few of her contributions include participating in the College’s accreditation program, chairing a keystone collaborative, helping to design the business keystone course, and being involved in the initial design process for the Augsburg Master of Business Administration program. Braun enjoys writing and is the author of a children’s book that explores the life of the middle child. Francine Chakolis, Social Work Bruce Reichenbach, Philosophy Francine Chakolis graduated from Augsburg in 1978. Since 1983, her dedication to her colleagues and students has taken many forms. Always a proud Auggie, Chakolis was a formidable leader and the first director of the Master of Social Work program in the 1990s. Her colleague Tony Bibus used these words to describe Chakolis, “…spouse, mother, family, and COMMUNITY, with capital letters. She is also a teacher, activist, fighter, administrator, leader, and social worker.” Bruce Reichenbach began his teaching career at Augsburg 43 years ago. Students have always been at the top of his priorities, and they received the very best of Reichenbach’s passion and deep commitment to learning. He organized and led the writing team for the Lilly Grant and then served on its advisory board. As a logical outgrowth of the Lilly Grant to explore vocation, he worked on the development of an extended orientation for first-year and second-year faculty. Reichenbach is a prolific scholar, having written a dozen books and many articles, and is regarded for his expertise in helping faculty understand how to teach critical thinking. Dan Hanson, Communication Studies A 1986 graduate of the Weekend College program, Dan Hanson began taking classes when he was a vice president at Land O’Lakes. A dedicated colleague and teacher for 23 years, Hanson developed several courses, including the communication studies keystone course and a course for the Master of Arts in Leadership program. He is the author of several books, including A Place to Shine and Room for J: A Family Struggles with Schizophrenia. Hanson has devoted his energy and years of experience and expertise to the development of his students in both undergraduate and graduate program classes. Lynne Lorenzen, Religion At a reception honoring Lynne Lorenzen’s 22-year career at Augsburg, Professor Bev Stratton referred to Lorenzen as a trailblazer. A tireless advocate for gender rights on campus and in broader communities, Lorenzens’s collaboration on the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America’s (ELCA) first sexuality task force 20 years ago laid the groundwork for the decision to recognize lesbian and gay clergy in committed, same-gender relationships. She played an important role in the design and development of the Augsburg/Associated Colleges of the Twin Cities (ACTC) women’s studies program. An active member and leader in the Lutheran church, Lorenzen’s classes at Augsburg also reflected her interests and focus on theology, church studies, and feminism. Charley Sheaffer, Computer Science Charley Sheaffer has been involved in several curricular development efforts in his department since he joined the College in 1997. He helped revise the computer science major to include the programming languages and compilers sequence. He was a co-creator of a three-credit cognitive science course, which was instrumental in increasing confidence among many students about their ability to handle college-level work. His colleague Larry Crockett said, “If the measure of a person is finally the ability to retain a gracious sense of humor in the face of all that life can present, then Charley is a remarkable person indeed.” Nan Skelton, Center for Democracy and Citizenship As co-director of the Center for Democracy and Citizenship (CDC) at Augsburg College, Nan Skelton led the center’s external public work in civic education, reclaiming neighborhoods, and the democratic renewal of education. She is a co-founder of the Jane Addams School for Democracy; and she has been an architect of the Neighborhood Learning Community and, more recently, Learning in Cities (also called Sprockets), pioneering new approaches to learning and education. Prior to joining the CDC in 1994, Skelton served as assistant commissioner of the Minnesota Department of Education and provided leadership with the National Governors Association. Summer 2011 5 my Auggie experience Floating on the social media bubble If you’re a friend of Ali Rapp ’11 and weren’t a frequent visitor to the communication and film studies office where she worked on campus, you maybe “saw” her on Facebook and Twitter. And if you didn’t attend a class or go to a local restaurant with her, you may have kept up with the goings-on of Ali Rapp’s life—and maybe still do—through her blog, “No, I am a Cat.” Rapp was the social media intern for Augsburg’s admissions office since 2007. In this position, she maintained her own blog and managed other student bloggers on Homemade, the College’s unobstructed window on student life. 6 Augsburg Now The student bloggers kept prospective and current students entertained and up-to-date with real-life posts about classes, favorite professors, internships, experiences abroad, papers and projects, social events, and general commentary on life as an Auggie. Homemade follows a national trend among college admissions offices to engage and recruit students using social media. A May 2009 article from The Chronicle of Higher Education cites data from the Center for Marketing Research at the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth. It shows that in fall 2008, 61 percent of admissions offices were using social-networking sites and 41 percent had blogs, up from 29 percent and 33 percent, respectively, in 2007. Rapp thinks Homemade is an easy way to give new students a view of Augsburg that they might not get through visits with admissions staff. “Incoming students aren’t dumb,” she said. “They know that things go on that no one talks about. I think they appreciate our honesty.” Staying afloat in the social media bubble is more than writing and editing posts and reminding bloggers to blog. It’s also about using other social media tools such as Facebook and the microblog tool Twitter to raise awareness of the blogs. Throughout her internship, Rapp became more adept at promoting Homemade using unique accounts on those social media sites. Rapp said the key to staying on top of social media is to remember that it is always changing. “For me it’s a matter of realizing I can’t stop learning. If I stay off of Twitter and Facebook for too long, I will lose some of it.” To be sure, social media is growing in importance not only for recruiting new students but also for keeping current students, alumni, donors, faculty and staff, and the community engaged in the life of the College. Many campus departments including the Enrollment Center, Campus Kitchen, the bookstore, and the dining service rely on social media to keep students informed. Auggie Eagle is on Facebook, too. In the fall, Rapp will begin graduate studies at the University of Minnesota in communication studies with a focus on critical media studies. She hopes to continue research started as an undergraduate on computer-mediated communication and to explore the role of social media in the communication studies field. And just in case you’re wondering, “No, I am a Cat” has no meaning. At least none that Rapp can remember. She doesn’t have a cat at her Minneapolis home. She does, however, have a dog named Per. If you were following her social life through social media, you may have read about him on her blog, too. WENDI WHEELER ’06 Keeping up with social media @Augsburg College Throughout Augsburg College, many departments and programs are finding that one of the best ways to stay in touch with prospective and current students, alumni, and the community is through social media. BLOGS YOU MIGHT LIKE: Homemade—www.augsburg.edu/homemade President Pribbenow’s blog—follow at www.augsburg.edu/president FACEBOOK PAGES YOU SHOULD “LIKE:” Augsburg College—the official page of the College (2,879 followers) Augsburg College Alumni Association—all the alumni news you need, and a great way to connect with your Auggie friends (336 followers) Augsburg College Homemade—you guessed it (285 followers) Auggie Eagle—be Auggie’s friend (1,251 followers) FOLLOW US ON TWITTER: @AugsburgCollege (1,088 followers) @paulpribbenow (258 followers) @auggieshomemade (107 followers) Number of followers listed are as of July 2011. auggies on the track More than an all-around guy At Augsburg, Nick Ward ’11 worked hard to be an all-around student-athlete—one who was as dedicated to his studies as he was to setting records on the track. In his last year of college, he put in extra time to add one more accomplishment to his list: All-American athlete. A physics and mathematics major originally from Milwaukee, Wis., Ward says he had no intention of participating in college track and wanted instead to focus on academics. Then a couple of his first-year friends talked him into joining the track team. Augsburg track and field coach, Dennis Barker, says Ward was a very coachable athlete and a good listener. “He always tried to absorb and understand the concepts behind what I asked him to do,” Barker said. “I think that’s partly the way he thinks as a physics student.” Barker was impressed with Ward’s commitment. “I don’t know anyone who studies as much as he studies,” Barker said. He speculates that track offered a chance for Ward to let loose after spending long hours in the lab and the library. “I think track and field maybe comes more naturally to Nick than physics, but that never stopped him from excelling,” Barker said. Being a member of the Auggie track team turned out to be a good choice for Ward. One of the top men’s sprinters in school history, he earned his first trip to national competition this spring when he competed in the men’s 55-meter dash at the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) indoor championships in Columbus, Ohio. Ward’s qualifying time of 10.73 seconds in the men’s 100-meter dash was the 17th-fastest among the 22 entrants in the event. Last season, Ward won the conference titles in the men’s 55-meter dash and men’s long jump at the MIAC indoor championships, while finishing second in the men’s 100meter dash and winning a conference title as part of the 400-meter relay at the Minnesota Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (MIAC) outdoor championships. In his first-ever appearance at the NCAA championships in May, Ward clocked a time of 11.07 seconds to record a 20th-place finish in the event. As one of the top sprinters in Augsburg school history, Ward will end his career having earned seven MIAC titles, 12 All-MIAC honors, and eight All-MIAC honorable-mention honors, to go along with eight school records. Off the track, Ward completed his studies with a 3.2 grade point average and conducted summer research in physics as a McNair Scholar and also through the North Star STEM Alliance program. He credits his academic success to faculty and staff who encouraged him, namely his physics adviser Ben Stottrup, Tina Tavera from the McNair Scholars program, and Rebekah Dupont who advises North Star STEM students at Augsburg. “They pushed me throughout my whole college career, making me apply for internships and for research opportunities off campus. I guess they motivated me to keep going,” he said. Ward applied to three graduate school programs and was accepted into the master’s program in electrical engineering at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University in Greensboro. “Nick has such a great attitude and is always so excited about the opportunities he has,” Barker said. “I think he feels very fortunate to be at Augsburg, studying in a stellar physics department and being on the track team. I think he’s enjoying life here.” After four outstanding seasons and a successful academic career, Ward’s goal for the end of the season was to be named an AllAmerican in the 100- and 200-meter dashes and in the long jump. Unfortunately his name was not on the NCAA Division III list, but that doesn’t change the fact that Nick Ward is an impressive student and athlete. For Ward, a somewhat shy young man, talking about his accomplishments is one thing that does not come easily. “I guess I’m just trying to be an all-around guy,” he said. WENDI WHEELER ’06 AND DON STONER 8 Augsburg Now it takes an Courtesy photo Auggie Visionary leadership in support of student success In 1984, Skip and Barbara Gage’s oldest son, Geoff, made an unexpected choice. Though he had been determined to attend school in California, the high school senior decided after a tour of the Augsburg campus that he preferred to become an Auggie. At parent orientation the following fall, Skip and Barbara joined the campus community for the first time. “We couldn’t have been more pleased with the nurturing and caring environment provided at Augsburg,” Skip said. While they remained proud Auggie parents (all four of their children attended classes at Augsburg, and two graduated from the College), it didn’t take long for Skip and Barbara to take a more active role in the community. Just two years later, Augsburg President Charles Anderson asked Barbara to join the board of regents, where she served for 12 years, including four years as chair of the board. During the early years of Barbara’s service, she and Skip approached President Anderson to discuss ways to expand student support. “We’ve had distinct experience with learning differences in our family,” Skip said, but at that time, little research had been done on learning differences at the college level. In fact, according to the Gages, Augsburg and the University of Colorado, Boulder, were Barbara and Skip Gage Skip and Barbara have supported other campus projects through the years, including the Scandinavian Center, Lindell Library, Anderson Plaza, and the Gage Family Art Gallery. And, with their newest gift, the Gages once again reveal their enthusiasm for student support and innovative programming. The Gage Family Foundation and the Carlson Foundation last spring announced that they will collectively contribute $900,000 toward the creation of the Gage Center for Student Success—a centralized place where all “We were so thankful that we had found a school that actually had ways to help students can go to enhance their learning and students with learning differences,” Barbara said. “We were excited to help achieve their academic goals. Construction for make the program larger and able to meet the needs of more students.” the center started this summer in Lindell Library. The center will be on the link level, the only two colleges they found that provided support services to creating space at the heart of the campus for the CLASS program as students with different learning abilities. well as numerous other academic success programs. Passionate about this cause, Skip and Barbara commissioned a Barbara noted the importance of having the learning center $30,000 study on programming to support learning differences. near the College’s technological resources and at a centralized loBased on this study’s findings, the Gages, together with the cation. Carlson Family Foundation, committed half a million dollars and “The center will be a part of the students’ daily lives,” she raised another half a million to institute a new program at said. “[The students who use the center] will become advocates of Augsburg, which evolved into the Center for Learning and Adaptive learning.” Student Services (CLASS). This program provides services to help The Gages believe that Augsburg’s leadership in student sucall students—regardless of learning style, preference, or need— cess is due in part to its mission for service. reach their full potential at Augsburg. “Augsburg has been wonderful in being inclusive in working “We were so thankful that we had found a school that actually with students of different needs,” Barbara said. “I’m so proud to had ways to help students with learning differences,” Barbara said. be a part of it.” “We were excited to help make the program larger and able to meet the needs of more students.” KAYLA SKARBAKKA ’09 Summer 2011 9 auggie voices Treating the system instead of the symptoms Katie Edelen ’11 wanted to be a doctor from the time she was five years old. She watched surgery on the Discovery Channel before naptime and begged her parents to let her be present at the birth of her two younger siblings. It wasn’t until she was in college and working with doctors in India that Edelen realized she did not actually want to be a doctor. Soon after she arrived at Augsburg, Edelen began looking for an opportunity to volunteer abroad to gain medical experience helping people in war-torn countries. She had been interested in Doctors Without Borders, so she contacted native health non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to find volunteer opportunities. In her junior year, Edelen landed in Chennai, India, where she shadowed doctors in government hospitals and another who brought internal medicine services to refugee camps, slums, and villages. “What really spoke to me were all the people who had been exposed to water-borne, preventable diseases because of unsafe sanitary conditions,” she recalled. Though she had been interested in environmental issues before traveling to India, there she began to see in a new way the consequences of peoples’ actions on the environment. She saw that issues related to health, education, poverty, and social justice were connected to environmental problems. “That is when I started to become interested in treatment of the systematic inequalities as opposed to putting a band-aid on the problem,” she said. This experience led Edelen to pursue other opportunities centered 10 Augsburg Now on water and its role in society. She took a course on environmental and river politics led by Augsburg political science professor Joe Underhill. She traveled to Uganda and worked with villagers on water access and conservation, even starting a “safe water and hygiene club” in the primary school. This summer, she will be in Norway on a Fulbright fellowship researching the correlation between armed conflict and water hazards and scarcity at the Peace Research Institute in Oslo. Following her time in Norway, Edelen will pursue graduate work in environmental studies on a Rotary Ambassadorial Scholarship. A triple major in chemistry, biology, and environmental studies, Edelen said her education and experiences abroad have solidified her desire to work in the area of policy analysis and research. “I really see my vocational work and my background bridging the different realms of sciences and the humanities together to address problems,” she said. “The nexus between science, policy, and society can be messy and convoluted, but that’s what really excites me about it.” Edelen said her parents instilled in her the importance of taking initiative, encouraging her interest in medicine even before she began grade school. “I’ve always had a desire to make a difference in the world somehow. That’s what really motivates me. I want to use my gifts as a way to help the world.” WENDI WHEELER ’06 To read more about Katie Edelen, go to www.augsburg.edu/now. “PROBLEM” STUDENTS BECOME PROBLEM SOLVERS BY WENDI WHEELER ’06 Visualize young people in our public schools making positive change in their communities. Who comes to mind? Probably not middle school students in the special education classroom—kids with emotional and behavioral disabilities who have difficulty paying attention and communicating with each other or their teachers. Typically, students in special education are labeled as troublemakers. They are marginalized, silenced, and given little choice in their daily school tasks. But a partnership between Augsburg College and Fridley Middle School hopes to change that. By giving students a voice in their education and allowing them to focus their time and energy on an issue they care about, this program has turned “problem” students into public problem solvers. Public Achievement in special education Piloted in the 2010-11 academic year, Augsburg’s program at Fridley Middle School (FMS) is a partnership involving Augsburg’s Center for Democracy and Citizenship (CDC), the Augsburg special education faculty and students in the Master of Arts in Education (MAE) program, and teachers and students from the school. The project began when Susan O’Connor, associate professor of special education at Augsburg, heard Dennis Donovan and Nan Skelton of the CDC speak about the Public Achievement model. This model for youth civic organizing was developed by the CDC’s Harry Boyte. In the classroom, Public Achievement serves as an empowerment tool that allows students to create change in an area that they select and take ownership of as a group. To O’Connor, Public Achievement seemed like a fit for special education classrooms. “It was like the self-advocacy tool we are always encouraging teachers to use with their students,” she said. “The kids with EBD (emotional/behavioral disabilities) are kids that typically don’t have a voice in their school work. They’re told what to do. They’re told how to act.” O’Connor and Donna Patterson from the Augsburg special education faculty learned how to implement Public Achievement in the classroom. They looked for a location to pilot the project and settled on FMS because two of the special educa- tion teachers—Michael Ricci ’07 and Alissa Blood ’07—are graduates of Augsburg’s teacher education program. Finally, they hand-picked five MAE students from the Critical Issues seminar course to work with the middle school students and then began weekly classes at Fridley in the fall term. A new way of teaching and learning The Public Achievement model identifies classroom teachers as coaches and places all responsibility for decision-making and action on the students. The middle school students identified two projects: one concerning alternative energy and another on homelessness. In each project, the students were responsible for designing every aspect. They created timelines, conducted research, contacted experts and members of the community to schedule speaking engagements or field trips, and communicated about their projects with faculty and students in their school. Cheryl McClellan, an Augsburg MAE student, worked with the “Solar Heroes” team on installing solar panels to light the school’s flag and a solar thermal to heat water for domestic uses at the school. “The idea is, the students decide who gets invited to be a part of the project. They find out how to contact people, send them an e-mail or call, and follow up with them,” McClellan said. At the end of the year, Solar Heroes had not been able to finalize the projects but pledged to con- Summer 2011 21 11 tinue working on fundraising initiatives for the solar panels. For many of the students, these were tasks they had never been entrusted to perform. In addition to learning about how it feels to be empowered, McClellan said students also came to understand that community organizing and advocacy is not always easy work. “You get a lot of ‘no’s,’ but they are learning the skills to move forward.” Kayla Krebs is one of the Augsburg MAE students working with “Team Making a Way,” the class focused on homelessness. Her students went to the State Capitol to speak with legislators and also made fleece blankets to donate to Families Moving Forward, a North Minneapolis shelter that provides services for families with children who are experiencing homelessness. Krebs saw her role in the classroom as a facilitator. “I learned how to be flexible and how to let the students’ voices shine.” For students with special needs, she says this is an important part of the learning process because “so many times, people tell them what to do.” Molly McInnis, an Augsburg MAE student, said the program has taught her a new way of teaching. “I have learned how to let the students make the decisions and drive their own project,” she said. “I can’t come in and be a teacher—I need to listen to them and let them lead.” Blood said the program was beneficial to her students because they struggle with taking responsibility. “This program has given them a sense of power and responsibility and taught them that what they think and do matters. They are much more committed and have a sense of pride in what they are doing.” By giving students the power to choose the issues they want to work on and the methods of solving problems, Donovan said the students have developed the capacity to become public problem solvers. That means they work to solve problems affecting the Augsburg-Fridley Public Achievement Team Back Row [L to R]: Dennis Donovan, Stephen Keeler, Cheryl McClennan, Alissa Blood, Steph Bloxham, Heidi Austin, *Barbara West Middle Row [L to R]: Michael Ricci, *Susan O’Connor, *Dee Vodicka, *Elizabeth Ankeny, *Donna Patterson Front Row [L to R]: Molly McInnis, Becki Hamlin, Kayla Krebs *Augsburg College Faculty 12 Augsburg Now “THIS PROGRAM HAS GIVEN THEM A SENSE OF POWER AND RESPONSIBILITY AND TAUGHT THEM THAT WHAT THEY THINK AND DO MATTERS. THEY ARE MUCH MORE COMMITTED AND HAVE A SENSE OF PRIDE IN WHAT THEY ARE DOING.” ALISSA BLOOD ’07 public and are doing it in a public way. The students created displays for cases outside their classroom, logos and posters for their projects, appeared on the FMS Friday radio broadcast, spoke at a luncheon at Augsburg, and held a public presentation at the school. “Kids that are marginalized really rise to the top when they are given power,” he said. “In education, we say it’s not an achievement gap—it’s an empowerment gap,” Donovan said. “We have to ask ourselves how we can empower teachers and students to learn about things that are meaningful to them and have a voice in their education.” Lessons for teachers One of the most important reasons for implementing this Public Achievement project was to drive institutional change, O’Connor said. “We want these students to be seen in a more positive light, not as trouble-makers.” She added that the Fridley students were noticed by their administrators and peers, recognized publicly for their work, and asked to contribute to future discussions. Another goal of the project was to bring lessons learned by the Augsburg students and faculty into the special education curriculum at Augsburg. The faculty are creating a three-year plan to integrate into the special education curriculum and hope to develop a Public Achievement coaching course that can be used in other departments. Donovan is excited to see how this project will affect Augsburg’s special education curriculum and students. “I think Augsburg students are going to be different teachers because of this experience,” he said. A former public school administrator, Donovan is passionate about working with teachers and helping them acquire new skills for the classroom. Helping the Fridley students find their voice and become more visible in their middle school community are outcomes that also had a strong impact on the Augsburg students who will one day lead their own classrooms. Heidi Austin, an Augsburg MAE student who worked with the Solar Heroes group, said that as a future teacher, this program makes her very hopeful. “It is so important to give kids an opportunity to see that they can make a difference,” she said. “I came in thinking there wasn’t going to be much progress with this project, but I’ve been totally blown away with what they’ve done.” Speaking to the Augsburg community at an event in May, McClennan said this project transformed the FMS culture, the students, and also transformed her personally in a way she hadn’t anticipated. “At my core I am a better parent, a better citizen, and a better teacher,” she said. She commented that the students have felt empowered by their accomplishments and the public recognition they received. “I have learned that these kids who are so often silenced have a strong voice.” To read more about the Fridley Middle School Public Achievement project, go to www.augsburg.edu/now. Summer 2011 13 ERICA LIPPITT ’12 Erica, a Weekend College student, studied abroad in Mexico to learn Spanish. a Cuernavaca, Mexico San Lucas Sacatepequez, Guatemala GLORIA XINICO MORALES ’12 ugsburg’s Office of International Programs (OIP) for more than 25 years has provided internationally recognized and award-winning programs to students who seek cross-cultural and hands-on learning abroad. The office also brings international students to campus. “Increasingly, a global perspective is critical to a liberal arts education,” said Orval Gingerich, assistant vice president for International Programs and director of the Center for Global Education. “Intercultural experiences—at home and abroad—are a way to bridge global and local issues.” During the 2009-10 school year, nearly 275 students studied abroad. At the same time, Augsburg’s Minneapolis campus was home to nearly 100 international students from about two dozen countries including Morocco, Nepal, Norway, Tanzania, Togo, and many more. In this edition of Augsburg Now, we present a snapshot of the stories of students with ties to Guatemala, Germany, Mexico, China, Vietnam, Kenya, and Yemen. Some traveled from Augsburg to other parts of the globe. Others came to Augsburg and the Twin Cities from far away home countries. Still others have graduated and are on to the next chapters of their stories. To learn more about OIP and its programs, go to www.augsburg.edu/oip. Gloria, an international student from Guatemala plans to study in Namibia this fall. auggies are ev 14 Augsburg Now MAX BREGENZER ’12 Max has traveled, studied, and lived in four countries, but was born and raised in Germany. Würzburg, Germany IBRAHIM AL-HAJIBY ’14 Guangzhon, China FAIZA ABBAS MAHAMUD ’11 Faiza went back to her home country of Kenya as an exchange student to help African women. Sana’a, Yemen Hue, Vietnam Holly, a student at United International College in China, came to the U.S. to study education at Augsburg. JIAHUA (HOLLY) HUANG ’12 Ibrahim hopes one day to return to his home in Yemen to start a non-governmental organization. Nairobi, Kenya DAT NGUYEN ’11 Windhoek, Namibia Dat, a recent graduate and international student, will be a graduate student at Dartmouth. verywhere BY STEPHANIE WEISS Summer 2011 15 GLORIA XINICO MORALES A girl of the world Gloria Xinico Morales has worked so hard at Augsburg since arriving during 2008 that she twice won outstanding student of the year awards—once during her sophomore year and again her junior year. The hard work that earned Xinico Morales these honors is fundamental to her personality. She doesn’t give up. She doesn’t quit. Xinico Morales was 18 when she first applied for—and was denied—a student visa. She wanted to study at Augsburg College, a school she has known of for her whole life because her father is director of the Center for Global Education in Guatemala. Xinico Morales wasn’t deterred by the denial. Top: A view of the mountains from Gloria Xinico Morales’ hometown of San Lucas Sacatepequez, Guatemala. Bottom: Xinico Morales, left, is the oldest of three children. Here she is shown with her brother, Manuel, and sister, Nickte. Courtesy photos 16 Augsburg Now She waited the three months before she again could apply, and this time was approved. But the whole process pushed her college plans back by a full year. And as if that wasn’t enough, her visa was delivered to the wrong city the day before she was to fly to the United States. She drove to the city to pick up her visa. “After waiting one year and one week, I had two days to get here, unpack, and settle in,” Xinico Morales said. “I’d never been outside of Guatemala before.” But she still didn’t get to start at Augsburg right away. She said that by working with admissions staff, they decided she should study English for three months before starting college. It was a good plan. “Going to Global Language Institute was very helpful,” she said. “When I did start at Augsburg, it seemed the teachers talked really fast. I wasn’t comfortable with English, homework took a lot longer.” She kept plugging away. She joined the Spanish club and quickly was an officer. She joined Allied Latino/a Augsburg Students, and finally the International Student Organization of which she now is president. That’s not even all of it, though, because Xinico Morales said she can’t say ‘no.’ Being a student from another country can be challenging and students sometimes grapple with living life in two cultures. Xinico Morales grew up in Guatemala and was raised Catholic. She looks for answers to questions about varied perspectives in part through self reflection. “My life is like a tree,” Xinico Morales said. “The roots are the morals my parents taught me. When things get messy, that’s where I go. The trunk is my immediate family that is there for me no matter what. Then there are the leaves. The leaves go away and come back as I grow and change.” Lately, people have been asking Xinico Morales what she plans to do with her degree in international relations and minor in political science. She doesn’t know the answer. “Minneapolis is my second home. My life is built here, but Guatemala is where I belong, all my roots are there and my heart is there,” she said. “But I’ve become a different person and don’t fit there.” She hopes that she’ll find the answer in Namibia, in southern Africa, where she’ll study in the fall as an exchange student. “Namibia is a neutral place, a different country, a different continent,” she said. “It will help me make a decision from far away. Or maybe I’m just a girl of the world and I’ll go other places.” MAX BREGENZER Living life to the Max Max Bregenzer has traveled, studied, and lived in four countries—Germany, Spain, Argentina, and the United States—and he might not yet be done. Bregenzer, 22, was born and raised in Germany and now works in his home country for a large grocery wholesaler. The company, called Edeka, also is sending him to school. He studies for three months, then applies what he’s learned for three months. He’ll do that for a total of three years and at the end will have a holistic perspective of the company. It was through this model that Bregenzer came to Augsburg. He researched schools in the U.S. and found that Augsburg offered the classes he wanted, including human resources and project management, problem-solving for business, and international business. He said he also was lured by the arts and outdoor activities. “I learned about theatre and was totally surprised that everyone is biking here in the winter,” he said. This isn’t the first time Bregenzer has studied or lived abroad. He spent a year of high school in Spain. Then he went to Argentina to work with street youths as part of his civil service. Bregenzer is the oldest of three boys, and his family since about 1869 has owned a group of bakeries and cafés within 40 miles of his home city. You can see all the tasty-looking treats his family makes at Maxl Bäck (http://maxlbaeck.de). He hasn’t shut the door on the idea that he might someday work in the family business, but for now he is focused on learning and practicing regional store management. ERICA LIPPITT Family teamwork creates a world of possibility for WEC student Some people buy home study courses to learn Spanish. Some enroll in Spanish classes. And some people, like Erica Lippitt, go all the way to Cuernavaca, Mexico, to live and study. “I definitely achieved what I wanted in only four months,” said Lippitt, a single working mother and Weekend College student. “My son’s family is from Cuba and they say that my Spanish is getting good. We can communicate, and I understand them.” Studying at the Center for Global Education’s Mexico location was possible because Lippitt’s family pulled together. Her parents offered to care for her son, and Lippitt’s brother helped, too. Her father, a Lutheran pastor, even got a night job so the family could afford daycare for Lippitt’s son. “My parents pushed me,” she said. “They showed me this was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.” Lippitt originally enrolled at Augsburg during 2001 for business administration. She said she left the school—also her mom’s alma mater—because Erica Lippitt visited the pyramids of Teotihuacan in Mexico City and the Xochicalco pyramids in Cuernavaca, Mexico, with friends she made on her travels. Courtesy photos she wasn’t focused. Lippitt moved to Florida to work and while there, met her son’s father. “I left Florida to escape an abusive relationship,” she said. “My dad is a pastor, and I wasn’t raised to live like that. I had to leave.” When Lippitt returned to Wayzata, she returned to Augsburg where she earned a 4.0 grade point average while working as many as 30 hours a week and raising her son. “It shows I am more focused, more determined. I am here because I want to learn, not because I have to be here.” Studying in Cuernavaca also opened new possibilities and ways of thinking. Erica now knows she wants to work in human resources for an international company. She’d also like to live and work in Mexico for a time so her son can experience living in a Spanish-speaking country. And finding ways to help other women is on her radar screen, too. “I’ve gained so much strength from my experience, that if there is something I can do to help other women, I’d like to,” she said. Summer 2011 17 JIAHUA (HOLLY) HUANG Holly is a regular Minnesotan In the 12 months Jiahua Huang was in the United States, she became a typical Minnesotan. Holly, as she prefers to be known in the U.S., liked the Minnesota State Fair and shopped at the Mall of America. And she got sick of snow. Huang, a student at United International College (UIC) in China, came to the U.S. to study education at Augsburg College. She learned about the college through an Auggie studying abroad at UIC. She wanted to learn about the United States’ culture and improve her English skills, and she was attracted to Augsburg because of its location. “It’s better for me to live in a city,” said Jiahua Huang was originally excited for snow, and her Huang, who comes friends were jealous that she was able to experience from a city of 1.6 milwinter. By April, though, she was ready for springtime. lion people. “Friends who went to [rural private colleges] said they were bored. But, when I got here, I asked where all the people were. I went to the State Fair, and I liked it a lot—all the people.” Huang was raised near Hong Kong. She has two older sisters and an older brother. Many families in China have only one child, but some are able to afford more children. “My parents wanted another boy, but got another girl,” she said. “Many friends would think from my name that I am a boy because my name means ‘handsome’.” Huang struggled with classes at first. “English is so hard,” she said. “I would listen to the professor, and I didn’t know what he was talking about. I would read the textbook, and I didn’t know what I was reading.” She also worked hard to become comfortable with cultural differences in the classroom. “In China, you raise your hand and stand up to participate,” she said. “Here, all the students talk. I wish I were more confident in class—I feel comfortable talking, but it also feels like I am being impolite.” Despite growing tired of the snow, Huang said she would like to return to Minnesota. She wants to go to graduate school at the University of Minnesota and teach Chinese while staying connected with her new friends in Minnesota. 18 Augsburg Now Success in the sciences started for Dat Nguyen when his photographer father lectured him on the solar system. It was 1995 and the two were taking pictures of the total solar Dat Nguyen, right, performs with folksinger Peter Yarrow of Peter, eclipse in Vietnam. Nguyen was Paul, and Mary more interested in how the camera and solar system worked than in the photos. Nguyen, who is Buddhist, said that his success also can be traced to selling candy at his mother’s store, and performing improvisational theater with American students visiting Vietnam in 2004. It was through these experiences that Nguyen learned to break out of his comfort zone. “As a Buddhist, we aren’t real loud or active. You have to break out of your shell and contribute,” Nguyen said. The American students that Nguyen’s family hosted invited him in 2005 to an improvisational theater camp in Colorado. “I didn’t expect to be invited to America when we hosted the students,” he said. “But I’ve found that if you do something voluntarily, without expectation, something automatically will come back.” In Nguyen’s case, that “something” turned out to be lifechanging relationships that resulted from his theater performances in Colorado. He met Peter Yarrow—of Peter, Paul and Mary—and later sang backup with Yarrow when the singer was in Vietnam for a fundraiser. He also connected with a group of families who offered to sponsor his education by providing his tuition, health insurance, and a stipend. In the sciences, Nguyen credits his success to the strong advising, encouragement and opportunities provided by his Augsburg professors, all of whom encouraged him to explore his curiosities and broad-ranging scientific interests. He will continue to feed his unlimited curiosity this fall as a graduate student at Dartmouth, where he has earned a full scholarship. He said he is looking forward to continuing his studies in a setting similar to Augsburg College—one with a smaller department where he can connect and interact with many people. DAT NGUYEN Unlocking possibilities and potential at Augsburg FAIZA ABBAS MAHAMUD A life that defies definition Faiza Abbas Mahamud moved a lot when she was young. First her family moved from war-torn Somalia to Kenya. Then the family moved four times in Kenya, including living at one time in a refugee camp. All the moving meant Mahamud wasn’t able to have one set of friends with whom to spend time, connect, and grow up. But she did have one constant—a dictionary. “As a child, textbooks had to be purchased. We couldn’t buy books, but we always had a dictionary. I feel like this is a tradition in our home,” she said. The moving stopped in 2004 when Mahamud’s family came to Minnesota. “My aunt put her life on hold to help us,” Mahamud said. “Aside from God, if it weren’t for my mom’s youngest sister, it would be hard for us to have a stable life.” Mahamud graduated from Roosevelt High School in 2007, then enrolled at Augsburg College. She went back to Kenya during 2010 as an exchange student to work for a United Nations agency in a variety of roles, including as a premarital counselor. “When I went back to Kenya, I was a totally different person,” she said. “I wasn’t the girl who wanted to get away from this country. Where is home for me? When I was in America, I would say ‘I’m going home.’ When I was in Kenya, I kept calling Minnesota home.” Mahamud, now a U.S. citizen, graduated in spring 2011 with majors in English and women’s studies and with a minor in chemistry. She’s now exploring options for graduate school but isn’t ready to confine herself only to the United States. “I want to be in Africa to help women who don’t have that second helping hand like my aunt,” she said. “I want to be in a position to make a difference in the lives of women and children.” And she still needs to finish reading the dictionary. “I spent so much time reading and using the words I learned,” she said. “But there are so many words I haven’t gotten to.” During her trip to Kenya, Faiza Abbas Mahamud learned beadmaking from the women of Narok who sold their goods at Maasai Mara. Courtesy photos Summer 2011 19 IBRAHIM AL-HAJIBY Life in the United States: Different, but not weird Ibrahim Al-Hajiby’s time in America is a study in contrasts. He first came to the United States during 2007 as a high school exchange student. He crossed the globe from Yemen’s capital city of Sana’a to Cloquet, Minn.—in the dead of winter. “I always seem to come to Minnesota in the winter,” he said. “In Cloquet, I loved McDonald’s double cheeseburgers. I would eat one every day. Even in winter, I’d ride my bike and the wheels would just spin in the snow.” Volunteerism and politics are different, too. “I live in one of the most conservative countries in the Middle East, and we have a tribal culture,” said Al-Hajiby, 20. “In Yemen, our schools are focused on academics— there isn’t the focus on serving the community.” Al-Hajiby volunteered time since first arriving in the U.S. and next year will serve as an officer of the International Student Organization. Al-Hajiby said that a key to his success in America is to embrace wherever he is living, and to be open to new experiences and people. “One of my host moms and I have a slogan: ‘It’s not weird, it’s different’,” Al-Hajiby said. Al-Hajiby said he misses and worries about his parents and sister but is glad that his brother also is in Minnesota Al-Hajiby is shown wearing the traditional clothing worn by men in his home country of Yemen. Courtesy photo 20 Augsburg Now Ibrahim Al-Hajiby said two of his favorite foods in the United States are hot dogs from The Wienery and double cheeseburgers from McDonald’s. this year. His country is in turmoil with protests against the government, and some demonstrations turn deadly. “I know people who have been killed,” he said. “My parents’ last words on the phone are that they are glad my brother and I are here and that we are safe.” Al-Hajiby is an honors student in chemistry and recipient of Augsburg’s International President’s Scholarship. He hopes one day to return to Yemen to start a non-governmental organization. “I really want to go back at one point and make a change,” Al-Hajiby said. “I feel like God has chosen me to pursue such a fine education so I can go back and help.” REAL EXPERIENCE IN THE WORKING WORLD BY WENDI WHEELER ’06 INTERNSHIPS, ONCE A NECESSARY STOP ON THE CAREER PATH OF ASPIRING PHYSICIANS, ARE NOW COMMON FOR MANY COLLEGE STUDENTS. WE TALKED TO FOUR AUGGIE INTERNS ABOUT WHAT THEY ARE LEARNING OUTSIDE OF THE CLASSROOM. INTERNSHIPS PROVIDE VALUABLE OPPORTUNITIES for college students to gain hands-on experience in their fields. In addition to practical training, internships can give students an inside view of a business or industry and help them broaden their professional networks. The internship experience often validates a student’s career choice, but it can also lead them to consider options they hadn’t before. Today an internship is part of many students’ college experience and perhaps a must for those hoping to be hired after college. According to a May 2011 Washington Post article, internships are common for 75 percent of U.S. college students. There are a number of reasons why students should and do take on internships, said Lois Olson, executive director of the Clair and Gladys Strommen Center for Meaningful Work at Augsburg. “Students get excited about what they are learning in the classroom and want to apply it in another setting.” Often, she said, students will tell her that an internship experience helps them better understand lessons from the classroom. “They say, ‘Now I understand why we needed to learn that.’ ” One of the most significant reasons for doing an internship relates to getting a job after college. “A prominent message from employers is that they want practical applied experience related to a student’s major on their résumé,” Olson said. “They want to know they are making a good hiring decision.” In fact, completing at least one internship during college can have great value beyond the learning experience. According to the 2010 Student Survey published by the National Association of Colleges and Employers, 42 percent of graduates with internships who applied for a job received an offer compared with only 30 percent for students who had no internship experience. In addition, students with internships tended to receive higher starting salary offers. As for internships leading to a job offer, Olson said technically a job cannot be promised in an internship situation. “Most students hope it will lead to a job,” she said. Olson added, “The reality is that many organizations will look to their interns to fill open positions should the opportunity arise.” The prominence of internships and the rise of importance in the hiring process means students should start thinking about an internship early. Olson said students who want to do an internship in their junior year should start the process of planning in their sophomore year. “The competition has really changed. It’s not as easy as making a phone call anymore,” she said. Because the process takes longer, Olson encourages students to dedicate as much time and attention to it as they would when applying for a job. Here we profile four students whose unique and challenging internships have given them insight into their chosen career fields and also helped them grow as future leaders. Summer 2011 21 What are you doing? I bring the children of major donors and long-time season ticket holders onto the field for batting practice so they can see what happens and meet the players. I also coordinate a few of the opening pitches. ’11 22 22 What have you learned? I have learned how much goes into the presentation of a professional sporting event. There is so much that you don’t see or hear about that’s behind the scenes to make a baseball game run. DAN BRANDT What is the value of your internship? Major: marketing Internship: Minnesota Twins public affairs office I have had a lot of unique experiences—meeting people, networking, and doing things out of the ordinary that most people don’t get to do. At some point I would like to have a career in this field, but it is very competitive. Augsburg Now Now Augsburg ’11 KRISTI VINKEMEIER Major: chemistry, biology minor Internship: Aveda Corporation/SarTec Corporation What are you doing? My internship is a joint project between Aveda and SarTec Corporation. We are using the Mcgyan reactor technology to synthesize new surfactant precursors from renewable resources. Surfactants are an important class of molecules and integral to the performance of shampoos, conditioners, and soaps. This new surfactant will be produced almost exclusively from renewable resources and is expected to be fully biodegradable. What have you learned? When you work in lab class, your professor says, “This is what you need to do, this is how you do it, and this is what you are going to get.” In industry, you don’t know what you are going to get. You have to keep strict notes. In lab you assume you’ll remember minor details, but in the real world you can’t remember from the first time to the fifth time. In industry, it’s not always clear as day what is going to happen. The learning curve is much greater. I’ve also learned about myself. Before this, I told everyone I didn’t like research. Now I love it. I need change, so research and development and the variety of tasks I’ve been able to do are a lot of fun. Originally I was strongly interested in becoming a physician assistant, but I have started to explore the idea of getting my master’s or PhD in chemistry. What is the value of your internship? I can’t explain how awesome an internship is. The companies are willing to work with a student who is learning. I wish everyone could have this opportunity. You learn so much about working with people in a real chemistry lab. If I went to a big school I don’t think I would have had the same opportunities as I have had here. Augsburg has great affiliations with companies. Here, the chemistry department [faculty] got to know me and know what I am interested in. Summer 2011 23 What are you doing? I have been researching the area around the proposed stops along University Avenue on the Central Corridor Light Rail line. I have looked at the cost of developing high-density housing units in the area. I have also looked at government policies that were changed, such as some zoning policies and parking regulations. I have had to look at the background information of the proposed stops and give their story. ’11 TOM THAO Major: sociology Internship: Local Initiative Support Corporation (LISC) What have you learned? I am getting more into urban planning and learning about the policies involved in implementing a big project into a city. What is the value of your internship? I would like to have a career in urban planning, so it’s been beneficial to go into the field and get to know people. I hope I can build up my résumé these next few years and then get a master’s in urban regional planning. But right now it’s about building the connections. ’11 GEOFFREY GILL Major: youth and family ministry, psychology minor Internship: Seeds of Change at St. Paul Central High School What are you doing? Seeds of Change is an after-school program directed toward African American males. We try to give them the support they need in their education and in their personal lives. Our main goal is to get the families involved in the kids’ lives. A lot of their parents don’t go to conferences and don’t know about their kids’ grades. We are inviting the parents to a family night where they come and get involved in conversations. We are doing a small play to portray their experiences in school and life. It’s a chance for them to literally tell their parents what is going on in their lives. At the end we give the parents an opportunity to talk about what they saw. My goal is to be a support for the students. I first of all want to be a listening ear and hear where they are in life and be with them. They talk about how they moved around all their life and they never had a stable home. A lot of them don’t have fathers in their lives. They talk about how their relationship with their parents isn’t good and how they have seen their parents at their lowest points. They didn’t know how to handle it so they found a way to cope. You see kids who get into drugs because it’s the only way that makes them feel normal. Some of them don’t go home sometimes; they just ride the bus all night. What have you learned? It has helped me immensely. I’ve been put in a leadership position as the artistic coordinator. I’ve learned how to be a leader, how to make decisions, and how to lead a group. It’s different leading a group of people who are going out to do volunteer work or working with kids, but having your own employees and needing to delegate and make sure they stay on top of it is different. It’s been totally new for me. I’ve learned the importance of being consistent and organized and on time. If you’re slacking on something, it starts to show. What is the value of your internship? It has prepared me for the real world. When I walk into a new job situation, I am confident that I will be able to step in right away. I feel comfortable working with young people because through the youth and family ministry major we were taught to focus on what youth really want—not just from a religious perspective but on a human level. When I come into a situation I am able to understand what a person really wants. Summer 2011 25 2011 commencment Commencement by the numbers 3,655 150 faculty lined 7 ½ Street and applauded graduates as they processed tickets redeemed 2 drummers 314 steps Bob Stacke, professor of music, was unable to lead the procession in May due to an injury, so he enlisted the help of Andrew Myers ’10. 718 participating graduates (May and June) 18 FLAGS 8 Augsburg Now 210 5,200 minutes of music, speeches, recognition, and applause from Christensen Center to Si Melby front steps 3 number of volunteers Kwok Siu Tong, founder of United International College in Zhuhai, China The Reverend Kjell Magne Bondevik, former Prime Minister of Norway and founder and president of the Oslo Center for Peace and Human Rights The Reverend Ishmael Noko, general secretary (retired) of the Lutheran World Federation 70 Doctor of Nursing Practice graduates representing countries of international students graduating 26 sandwiches served at postcommencement receptions honorary degrees conferred 6 bows 1 bow on Colin Stanhill’s beard, photo featured in the May 8 Pioneer Press. on President Pribbenow’s neck (at each ceremony) dnp The first graduates of Augsburg’s Doctor of Nursing Practice program are prepared to bring new perspectives to the nursing practice. Back Row [L to R]: Kristin McHale '08 MAN; Susan Loushin '03 BSN, '06 MAN; Mary Ann Kinney '04 MAN; Kaija Freborg Sivongsay '08 MAN Front Row [L to R]: Joyce Miller '02 BSN, '05 MAN; Katherine Baumgartner '05 MAN; Jean Gunderson '03 MAN; Deb Schuhmacher '04 MAN At this year’s June commencement, Augsburg College graduated its first cohort of students in the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program. The DNP program, which began in 2009, is the College’s first doctoral program. The DNP curriculum focuses on transcultural nursing in community life, and the program has given students new perspectives on treating people and illness. Katherine Baumgartner ’05 MAN has been a member of the nursing faculty since 2005. For her, the DNP program was a logical fit to expand her journey and practice and to strengthen and deepen her knowledge in transcultural nursing. An ongoing focus of her study and practice has been providing training and skill building for health promoters in indigenous communities in rural Guatemala. Baumgartner said the DNP program reminded her that her own experiences matter and encouraged her to go forward with her work in Guatemala. “I learned that the practical wisdom borne from my own experiences is not to be minimized,” she said. “That’s not a classic outcome but is so important to my work.” Joyce Miller ’02 BSN, ’05 MAN also has taught for the past five years in the Augsburg nursing program. Her career focus has always been on leadership, she said, and she felt the DNP program would add a different dimension of care to her practice. “This program has changed the way I look at the world and pa- 2011 tients and the way I envision health care,” Miller said. “I ask who isn’t being cared for and how we can make sure everyone is being cared for in the same way.” Miller said she has learned to value “metis,” a term that refers to collective wisdom, and to respect its role in the nursing practice. “There is tremendous wisdom that we can learn from indigenous healers,” she said. The nurses learned from the practices of healers in Mexico, Africa, and Native American traditions. “This program has given me the ability to stand back and respect everyone for who they are and what they bring,” Miller said. Jean Gunderson ’03 MAN was one of the first students to graduate from Augsburg’s nursing master’s degree program and is also one of the first doctoral graduates. A public health nurse for the majority of her career, Gunderson says she has dedicated her whole life to creating systems of care that resonate with cultural diversity. “This program has been lifelong learning for me,” Gunderson said. She added that the program has transformed her models of care and helped her recognize diverse ways of knowing. She also said she has been moved to honor and recognize indigenous wisdom and to work in partnership with healers. Both Miller and Gunderson said that being “pioneers” of the DNP program has been rewarding. “We jumped right in with huge faith and helped to co-create the program,” Gunderson said. “We felt like we were partners.” commencment Summer 2011 27 alumni news FROM THE ALUMNI BOARD PRESIDENT Dear fellow alumni, I t is with great honor and a humble acceptance that I will serve as your Augsburg Alumni Board president for the 2011-2012 academic year. Having been a part of the Alumni Board for three years, I am very fortunate to have been selected to lead our alma mater in connecting and engaging alumni. It is my goal to help create fun and efficient programs that will not only get you connected but will keep you engaged! I grew up playing golf, and I absolutely love the game! My favorite times are when I am heading off that first tee with either family or a group of buddies and we are reminiscing or razzing one another about past memories that bring a few laughs. It’s that type of bond that keeps us connected and eager to reunite. When I think of family, Augsburg is a place I keep close to my heart—the friends that I made and the new friends that continue to emerge. Over the past few years, the Young Alumni Council has helped reunite old and new friends with the Young Alumni Summer Series of events, attended by 1,500 alums. We have had a blast putting this program together and have enjoyed watching its success. Following Auggie Eagle on Facebook and Augsburg College on Twitter have been fantastic ways to stay in touch and relay information when groups are getting together. I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate the 2011 graduating class! I look forward to seeing you at the 2011 Young Alumni Summer Series. We have another engaging and entertaining set of events in store for you, including Canterbury Park on August 5 and a Minnetonka boat cruise on September 15! Register at www.augsburg.edu/alumnievents or 612-330-1085. Auggies are literally all over the world! With more than 25,000 alumni, Auggies can be found from New Zealand to Denmark, the United States to Japan, and Minneapolis to San Diego. We are everywhere doing good things for our communities! The Alumni Board is rolling out a networking program, Augsburg Builds Connections, which will enable alumni professionals to provide information, encouragement, and support to current students and recent graduates. This flexible volunteer program will allow alumni mentors to connect with students via e-mail, phone, or face-to-face meetings and assist them in navigating their career path and achieving their professional goals. Read more about this program on the next page. Now, assisting Auggies is as simple as ABC! With all of this, I can’t help but be excited for the future. I wish you well and look forward to getting connected this year. Sincerely, ROBERT WAGNER II ’02 ALUMNI BOARD PRESIDENT P.S. The Alumni Board would like to welcome our new members: Kathy Amos ’87, Heather Cmiel ’02, Kate Loyd ’05, and Jerry Poland ’92 Alumni Board of Directors 2011-12 Standing (L to R): John Stadler ’07 MAL (past president); Jennifer M. Carlson ’91; Sarah Grans ’01; Chad Darr ’04; Sharon Mercill ’09; Tracy Anderson ’95 (secretary); Julia Mensing ’00, ’07 MBA; Michael Loney ’03 (treasurer); Kate Loyd ’05; Chris Ascher ’81 (president elect); Kathy Amos ’87; Jerry Poland ’92; Dale Hanka ’60; Robert J. Wagner II ’02 (president); Misti Allen Binsfeld ’93; Daniel Hickle ’95 Seated (L to R): Holly Ebnet Knutson ’03, ’07 MBA; Sharon Engelland ’87; Chris Hallin ’88 Not Pictured: Heather Cmiel ’02; Lee Anne Lack ’67; Nancy Nordlund ’91, ’07 MAL; Carolyn Spargo ’80; Maggie Tatton ’01 28 Augsburg Now abc Augsburg Builds Connections CONNECTIONS HELP GRADUATES DISCOVER WHAT’S NEXT After college, many graduates ask, “What am I going to do now?” Since he graduated from Augsburg, Cory Allen ’07 has helped several Auggies answer this question and find ways to share their gifts and talents with the world. “Augsburg is great about helping you understand your vocation, but it’s difficult to go the rest of the way,” he said. “You have to push yourself to discover what is next.” Allen works with students and graduates to help them understand their strengths and their weaknesses, what they do well and where they can improve. He said that knowledge might help in a person’s career but will also be beneficial in other areas of their lives. One recent graduate who has benefitted from Allen’s mentorship is Joe Lichtscheidl ’11. Allen helped Lichtscheidl improve his résumé and also gave him an “in” with a local company. Lichtscheidl said having a mentoring relationship with an alumnus who has gone through the job search is extremely helpful. “I feel that it keeps me from stressing out about getting a job in this tough economy because I have someone who has gone through it to help.” Sama Sandy ’08 reconnected with Allen at a Young Alumni Summer Series event, and the two continued communicating after that e w a Alumni mentoring volunteer opportunities will begin this fall night. Sandy said mentorship is a mutually beneficial relationship because both parties learn from each other. He added, “Mentorships are a fantastic way of networking in every sense because you are able to learn more about a person, potentially provide advice or assistance during times of struggle, and also get to be a part during the times of triumph.” For Allen, mentoring and working with others is simply “organic.” He said, “I think it’s my responsibility to pass on my knowledge and experiences, and it’s incredibly rewarding to see students go from the start of their senior year to a successful career.” SUPPORTING FELLOW AUGGIES IS AS EASY AS ABC The Augsburg Builds Connections (ABC) program is one of the many volunteer opportunities available to Augsburg parents and alumni. Volunteers in the program meet or correspond with students or graduates who are in the process of applying for a job or are interested in a career in their industry. Augsburg alumni and parents who participate in the ABC program have the opportunity to help Augsburg students navigate their career path. To learn more about Augsburg Builds Connections, go to www.augsburg.edu/alumni/abc.html. Auggie alumnae seek to engage women through AWE In late 2009, a group of Auggie women gathered to respond to a challenge: how to effectively engage more women in the life of Augsburg College. They created AWE: Augsburg Women Engaged. In Spring 2010, Augsburg graduates convened to share their insights about meeting this challenge. These alumnae shared two key pieces of advice. First, alumnae desire to re-establish or strengthen meaningful connections with classmates, faculty, current students, and the College community. Second, women desire to make an impact in whatever they do. We invite all alumnae to be part of making strategic connections for the coming years for Auggie women. Participate in whatever way best suits your interests, circumstances, and availability. Contact any of the Advisory Council members or Donna McLean, director of development initiatives, mclean@augsburg.edu or 612-330-1556, to find out how you can be involved. AWE women gathered at Augsburg House on Wednesday, June 1. Pictured [L to R]: Lisa Zeller ’81, ’89 MAL; Donna McLean; Shelby Andress ’56; Buffie Blesi ’90, ’97 MAL; Cassidy Titcomb; Sherilyn Young; Kari Eklund Logan ’82 The AWE Advisory Council members are Shelby Gimse Andress ’56; Buffie Blesi ’90, ’97 MAL; Lisa Svac Hawks ’85; Kari Eklund Logan ’82; Jennifer Hipple ’09; Lori Moline ’82; Roz Nordaune ’77; Heidi Wisner Staloch ’93; and Lisa Zeller ’81, ’89 MAL. We thank them for accepting the challenge to engage more women in the life of Augsburg College. Summer 2011 29 alumni news YOUNG ALUMNI summer series To register for the Young Alumni events or to see the full calendar of events at Augsburg, go to www.augsburg.edu/alumni Friday, August 5, 5-7 p.m. AUGGIE NIGHT AT THE RACES Canterbury Park 1100 Canterbury Road, Shakopee Free admission, picnic buffet, and reserved seating Thursday, September 15, 6-8 p.m. BOAT CRUISE ON LAKE MINNETONKA Join other Young Alumni donors for a sunset boat cruise on Lake Minnetonka with complimentary appetizers and beverages. Not a donor? Don’t miss the boat! Become a donor today at augsburg.edu/giving. Thursday, October 20, 7-8:30 a.m. EYE-OPENER PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT BREAKFAST sponsored by Thrivent Financial for Lutherans™ Town & Country Club 300 Mississippi River Blvd. N., Saint Paul $5 includes full breakfast buffet and networking Friday, October 21, 6-8 p.m. HOMECOMING 2011: AUGGIE HOURS Republic (formerly Preston’s) 221 Cedar Ave. S., Minneapolis Two complimentary beverages and appetizers provided 30 Augsburg Now 10% Auggie discount In an effort to attract Augsburg’s finest back to campus to continue their education, the Augsburg Master of Business Administration (MBA) is offering a 10% discount on MBA tuition to graduates of any of Augsburg’s undergraduate programs including Weekend College. The discount applies to students who begin the MBA program in September 2011 and will be applied to each course in the MBA program. Admission requirements and deadlines for the Augsburg MBA can be found at www.augsburg.edu/mba or by calling 612-330-1101. The Augsburg MBA is an accredited MBA that has recently become a formal candidate for global business accreditation from the Accreditation Council for Business Schools & Programs (ACBSP). Consider coming back to Augsburg for a two-year MBA program grounded in the liberal arts with a focus on local, national, and global business issues. Augsburg LIVE! webinar SEPTEMBER 21 Augsburg’s President Paul C. Pribbenow has traveled this year to ten cities and six states to engage the Augsburg community in discussions about the College’s mission, vision, and vocation, and to foster opportunities to advance the College’s key strategic initiatives. Alumni who have had the opportunity to hear from the president have left with a greater sense of pride in their alma mater and excitement for the future of the institution. The Augsburg LIVE! webinar is your chance to hear firsthand from President Pribbenow. Log in at www.augsburg.edu on Wednesday, September 21, at noon CT for a 30-minute conversation with President Pribbenow. See images of the campus master plan and hear stories of student success and excellence. Augsburg alumni experience the EMERALD ISLE Courtesy photo auggie involved in monitoring Japanese nuclear facility After the March earthquake and tsunami in Japan, Augsburg alumna Cynthia Jones ’81 was called upon to monitor nuclear safety of the affected Fukushima Daiichi nuclear site. Jones, a physics graduate and Augsburg College regent, is a senior staff member in the Office of Nuclear Security and Incident Response of the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) and worked as part of NRC’s 24-hour Operations Center team in the aftermath of the earthquake. During mid-May, the NRC transitioned this 24hour monitoring to a Japanese regulatory office. Since that time, Japanese officials have been managing the recovery process for the site. Because of Jones’ early involvement in the response, she now is presenting at scientific conferences. During late June, she chaired a special session at the national Health Physics Society meeting in Florida on the response to the events. For continuing information on NRC activities in response to this event, go to www.nrc.gov/japan/japan-info.html. Early in May, Auggie alumni and friends journeyed through Ireland on an alumni tour led by Phillip Adamo, director of the medieval studies program and history department chair. Highlights from the group’s travels include a Dublin cruise on the river Liffey and sites such as the Rock of Cashel and Holy Cross Abbey. Travelers experienced the majestic landscapes at the Cliffs of Moher and explored the ancient fort of Dun Aengus on the Aran Islands. Traditional Irish music was enjoyed in the village of Dingle and the bustling city of Galway. The travelers are pictured in front of Kylemore Abbey, a working Benedictine abbey in the countryside of the Connemara. Front Row [L to R]: Phil Adamo, Fritz and Linda Morlock, Marya (Christensen) Farrell ’63, Jessica Motschenbacher ’08, Jean Moucha, Sara Naegeli, Sandi Prince ’05, Ted Naegeli, Clodaugh Horner (Irish guide) Back Row [L to R]: Trace Regan, Mary Ellen Kelly, John Greenfield ’66, Mary Jo Greenfield, Bob Farrell, Jennifer Carlson ’91, Sue Tesmer ’74, Nancy and Richard Borstad, Amanda Storm Courtesy photo Journey to the Holy Land With Religion Professor Philip A. Quanbeck II JANUARY 3-14, 2012 Travel with a community of Augsburg alumni and friends under the leadership of religion professor Philip Quanbeck II and Dr. Ruth E. Johnson ’74. Discover the geography, places, and people of the Holy Land. Visit Jerusalem, Bethlehem, Caesarea, Capernaum, the Sea of Galilee, the Dead Sea, and much more. Woven into the itinerary are several opportunities to dialogue with local community leaders who give voice to the complex history and geopolitical issues of the region. Return home with a broader and deeper understanding of a land considered holy by the world’s three monotheistic religions. To register or request more information call 612-330-1525 or e-mail alumni@augsburg.edu Summer 2011 31 alumni class notes 57the 50th anniversary of his or- Rev. Alfred Kaupins celebrated dination on June 11. 72Come Join Their Song (pub- Mark Shepperd's choral piece, lished by Beckenhorst Press) won the 2010 VocalEssence & American Composers Forum Christmas Carol contest. The world premiere performance was given by VocalEssence at their Welcome Christmas concerts in December 2010 and will be rebroadcast in December 2011 on American Public Media. Mark has served as minister of music at Woodbury Lutheran Church in Woodbury, Minn., since 1990. 98master’s degrees at Hamline Beverly Bushyhead earned auggieSNAPSHOTS University in nonprofit management 32 and public administration. Bev hopes to do some research and policy work after her graduation. Ann Jenkins has accepted a position as an intake investigator with Allen County Children's Services in Lima, Ohio. Matt Butler licensed his invention, the ROLLORS® lawn game, to Maranda Enterprises. Matt conceived of the game while he was serving in the Air Force in Afghanistan. The game has sold more than 25,000 copies. Julie Johnson, with Doug Otto ’05 and Drew Druckrey, released The Banks of the Little Auplaine, an experimental roots album that mines historic Upper-Midwestern folk music. Julie Johnson & The No-Accounts trio performed the song collection at a CD release show at the Open Eye Theatre in Minneapolis in April. 99graduated in May 2010 with Kyran (Christianson) Cadmus her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from Colorado State University. She finished her Master of Public Health degree in April 2011 through the University of Minnesota. Kyran lives in Fort Collins, Colorado with her husband, Pete. 00 Mauris DeSilva received recognition for a study on controlled delivery of antibiotics to wounds. His team of researchers received first place for their work at a poster competition. Meg (Schmidt) Sawyer married Jim Sawyer on October 9, 2010 in Shoreview, Minn. Meg works for Youth Encounter, a Christian nonprofit youth ministry organization, as the business communications executive. 04ated with an MFA in musical Deanne M. McDonald gradu- theatre from Minnesota State University Mankato. 07years as a bicycle courier in After serving for almost three New York City, Jenessa Stark moved to El Paso, Tex., to study midwifery at Maternidad La Luz midwife school. She was also featured in “Triple Rush,” a Travel Channel series about New York City bicycle messengers that aired this spring. 99Damion Spilman welcomed Sarah (Ginkel) Spilman and Elizabeth (Libby) Frances Spilman on December 6, 2010. She joins big brother Zane, 5. 00Nicki, welcomed son Foster Mac Gordon and his wife, 06Aaron Riedel ’07 wel- Sara Schlipp-Riedel and on March 9. 01welcomed their first child, Liam Carrie (Lind) Cabe and Chris Cabe comed son Aidan Theodore on February 22. Christopher, on March 20. 71-73together at Augsburg and have met Members of the Chi House lived annually since graduation. The group received mittens hand knit by Lennice Keefe. Making them was on her “bucket list.” Pictured [L to R] are Julie (Hagberg) Swaggert ’73, Marilyn (Moxness) Hall ’71, Carol (Pederson) Jorgenson ’72, Mary Lynn (Monson) Oglesbee ’72, Lennice “Sparkie” (Nordaune) Keefe ’72, Jill Steele ’72, and Mary (Boraas) Janotta ’73. Not pictured: Suzanne (Olson) Swanson ’73. Augsburg Now 09ried Tom Henry Fields III Emily (Tischer) Fields mar- 02Whaylen were married September 11, 2010 in Brooke (Stoeckel) Whaylen and Courtney Edina, Minn. Shelly Laugerman ’04 and Erica Champer ’04 were also in the wedding party. Brooke works as a hospitality sales director at an area convention and visitors bureau, and Courtney works in IT security software. on August 28, 2010 in Rochester, Minn. Other Auggies in the wedding party included Killa Martinez-Aleman ’08, Caris Warnock ’09, and Kasi (Clauson) Lange ’08. 08 Emma Stensvaag returned to the states in December 2010 after completing 27 months of service for the U.S. Peace Corps in Mozambique. 10program in clinical psychology at the California School of Leann Vice-Reshel has been accepted into the doctoral Professional Psychology in San Diego, Calif. She will begin the program in September 2011. Graduate Programs Timothy (Tim) Van Rooy ’89 MAL and Rob Wagner ’02 (new alumni board president) were chosen to help build a community with families in need through Thrivent Builds with Habitat for Humanity in El Salvador. They helped build homes with families in need thanks to a multiyear, multimillion dollar partnership between Thrivent Financial for Lutherans™ and Habitat for Humanity International. Patrick Troska ’94 MAL was appointed executive director of the Jay and Rose Phillips Family Foundation. In addition to providing leadership for the organization’s overall strategy, Patrick will be the lead contact for the foundation’s grantmaking strategies related to housing and transit. Nicolas Thomley ’06 MBA has been named one of the 2011 Minnesotans on the Move by Finance & Commerce. The award honors professionals who are poised to make business history of their own during the coming years. Chris Wolf ’09 MAN recently published “A Head Injury Teaching Module for Pre-Hospital Assessment" in the February 2011 issue of Military Medicine Journal. Susan Nash, Augsburg College associate professor of nursing, was co-author. ENGAGING Homecoming October 16-22 2011 Join Augsburg alumni, parents, students, and friends in a fun-filled week of events and activities. New events have been added to this year’s schedule, including the Student and Alumni Networking Event following the Sabo Symposium on Wednesday, October 19, and the Alumni Art Exhibition on Friday, October 21. Homecoming Convocation will kick off the weekend’s events on Friday, October 21. At convocation, we will recognize the First Decade, Spirit of Augsburg, and Distinguished Alumni Award winners, as well as members of the class of 1961. Don’t miss opportunities for fellowship and reminiscing at the Homecoming Convocation Luncheon that afternoon or later that evening at Republic (formerly Preston’s). Experience the Best of Augsburg on Saturday, October 22, by attending a brief lecture from three of Augsburg’s outstanding faculty members: Garry Hesser (sociology, metro/urban studies), robert tom (studio art), and David Murr ’92 (physics). This year’s Taste of Augsburg pregame picnic on Saturday will include carnival-style booths operated by student, parent, and alumni groups. Following the picnic, cheer on the Auggies at the football game as they take on St Olaf. The Auggie Block Party is back by popular demand! Following the game, gather in the parking lot to the north of Si Melby Hall to enjoy food, entertainment, and camaraderie. The activities don’t end there— after the block party, attend the Hognander Music Scholars Reunion Concert at 6 p.m. in Hoversten Chapel. Homecoming weekend truly has something for everyone. For more information and to see a complete schedule, go to www.augsburg.edu/homecoming. We look forward to seeing you there! go auggies! WITH THE SCIENCES • Beer Brewing 101 with physics professor Ben Stottrup. Saturday, September 17, 2-4 p.m. Great Waters Brewing Co., 427 Saint Peter Street, Saint Paul • Stargazing and Minnesota Starwatch Class with WCCO Radio meteorologist Mike Lynch and astronomy professor Mark Bransford. Saturday, October 1, 7-9:30 p.m. Quarry Hill Nature Center, Savanna Room, 701 Silver Creek Road, Rochester For more information and to RSVP, go to www.augsburg.edu/engage or call 612-330-1085. Summer 2011 33 ’72 ASK AN AUGGIE EXPERT Greg Fitzloff Certified barbecue cook-off judge How did you become certified as a barbecue judge? Since I retired five years ago, I’ve been doing a lot of volunteer work. I met a gentleman who was a caterer but also cooked for a living. He would call me and I would go over when he was testing recipes, and he said I should become a judge. There are a couple of professional societies for barbecue cooks, and they have a certification class and process for judges. I found out more about it and said, “Why not?” If you will, it kind of ended up on my own personal bucket list. Why is a judge so important? As the contests become more popular, the key is to draw in top teams, and they want to be sure the judging is done correctly. In the last several years there have been more people involved, and the prize money has grown significantly in the professional circuit. A winner in a recent contest won $10,000. That’s why the judging is so important. After retiring five years ago from a career in teaching and economic development, Greg Fitzloff started checking items off his bucket list. Now he travels around the country tasting chicken, ribs, beef brisket, and pulled pork as a certified barbecue cook-off judge. We caught up with him at his cabin “up North” to find out more about this delicious-sounding job! What’s the key to a perfect barbecue? Two key words: low and slow. Cook it on low heat, 200 to 225 degrees, and slow. It takes time—anywhere from a couple of hours to 12 to 16 hours depending on the size and cut of meat. What are your favorite summer barbecue side dishes? I think the classics tend to go best. In the South and Southeast you see barbecue beans with a great variety of tastes. Further north and in the Midwest you see potato salad and cole slaw, of course. The other thing we’ve discovered over the years is that after you’ve been tasting barbecue all day, the thing that goes extraordinarily well is ice cream. I don’t know why. That nearest Dairy Queen generally gets a big hit after a contest. What criteria do you use in judging barbecue? It is fairly structured, but you are looking for three things. First is appearance—how the meat actually looks. Does it look like something you want to eat right away? Presentation is so important. The second is tenderness—is it cooked correctly? Each category has a slightly different process, but the questions are: Is it done? Is it cooked all the way through? Does the meat pull off the bone? And the final thing is the taste. Can you taste the meat? Does it taste good? We’re trying to judge to a certain standard, not based on what we like personally. Have you had any judging mishaps? Tasted an especially bad barbecue? Even though these are supposed to be really good cooks, they make mistakes. The most difficult category is beef brisket, and they usually make one of two mistakes. They overcook it to the point where it’s absolutely overdone, and once that happens, there’s nothing you can do about it. Or if they cut it with the grain, that meat is literally the consistency of shoe leather. We are supposed to taste it, but if you can’t get a bite out of it you can’t taste it. That’s always somewhat comical. 34 Augsburg Now Would you like us to feature you in a future issue? E-mail now@augsburg.edu and tell us about your area of expertise! Send us your news and photos Please tell us about the news in your life, your new job, move, marriage, and births. Don’t forget to send photos! (Digital photos must be at least 300 dpi or a 1MB file.) For news of a death, printed notice is required, e.g. an obituary, funeral notice, or program from a memorial service. Send your news items, photos, or change of address by mail to: Augsburg Now Class Notes, Augsburg College, CB 146, 2211 Riverside Ave., Minneapolis, MN 55454, or e-mail alumni@augsburg.edu. You can also submit news at www.augsburg.edu/alumni. ____________________________________________________________ Full name ____________________________________________________________ Maiden name ____________________________________________________________ Class year or last year attended In Memoriam Rev. Hamar Benson ’34, Auburn, Wash., age 100, on November 27. William A. Benson, Jr. ’42, Minnetonka, Minn., age 90, on April 11. ____________________________________________________________ Street address ____________________________________________________________ City, State, ZIP code Is this a new address? q Yes q No Dr. Henry Staub ’43, Minneapolis, age 91, on March 8. Maria E. (Sandness) Berryman ’47, Minneapolis, age 89, on February 26. ____________________________________________________________ Home telephone Melvin Haven ’47, Mesa, Ariz., age 88, on December 8. Gordon D. Ahlquist ’48, Robbinsdale, Minn., age 88, on February 24. Paul D. Arnold ’48, Milaca, Minn., age 85, on April 20. ____________________________________________________________ E-mail Okay to publish your e-mail address? q Yes q No Vincent S. Dahle ’49, Shoreview, Minn., age 83, on April 18. Donald H. Hegg ’49, Minneapolis, age 86, on March 10. Lillian L. Stadelman ’49, Pound, Wis., age 90, on April 27. Jeanette Jacobson Martinson ’49, Decorah, Iowa, age 85, on March 15. Quentin G. Quanbeck ’50, Sioux Falls, S.Dak., age 83, on February 18. Don L. Ortler ’51, Coon Rapids, Minn., age 82, on October 1. Donald R. Oscarson ’52, Northbrook, Ill., age 81, on April 23. Ralph Kirchoff ’53 on January 6, 2010. Edwin T. Johnson ’55, Walton, N.Y., age 91, on May 7. ____________________________________________________________ Employer ____________________________________________________________ Position ____________________________________________________________ Work telephone Is spouse also a graduate of Augsburg College? q Yes q No If yes, class year ________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ Spouse’s name Marshall D. Johnson ’57, Lake Havasu City, Ariz., age 75, on January 26. Jerry D. Carlson ’59, New Brighton, Minn., age 75, on December 20. ____________________________________________________________ Maiden name Harold W. Schilling ’59, Annandale, Minn., age 80, on May 8. Viola (Anderson) Aaseng ’69, Eau Claire, Wis., age 86, on August 20, 2010. Ronald A. Berg ’69, Arden Hills, Minn., age 64, on April 20. Your news: ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ Thomas P. O’Meara ’71, Minneapolis, age 63, on November 28. ____________________________________________________________ Terrance L. Blue ’72, Minneapolis, age 61, on February 15. Richard W. Kelley ’72, Minneapolis, age 64, on August 25, 2010. Nancy (Krusemark) Kruse ’76, Eden Prairie, Minn., age 56, on November 30. Janice O’Brien ’87, Burnsville, Minn., age 68, on June 21, 2010. ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ q I know a student who is interested in attending Augsburg. Lucas R. Johnson ’07, New Hope, Minn., age 27, on April 3. Summer 2011 35 ’67 gene hugoson Auggie tills a different field to success Gene Hugoson credits his success to a lifetime of farming and a liberal arts education. He said that his grounding in a range of topics—politics, communication, science, geography—allowed him to bridge diverse issues and backgrounds in each of the public service positions he’s held. “The idea of a liberal arts background was perfect for what I’ve done,” Hugoson said. “My knowledge is 15-miles wide and half an inch thick.” Hugoson, who earned a social sciences teaching degree from Augsburg College, recently was appointed a senior fellow for the University of Minnesota’s Global Initiative for Food Systems Leadership. He will collaborate with farmers and farm groups, state and federal government, and businesses to find improved ways to maintain food security. “The idea of a liberal arts background was perfect for what I’ve done,” Hugoson said. “My knowledge is 15-miles wide and half an inch thick.” One project on which he will focus is the development of a plan for the prevention, isolation, control, and economic recovery from foot-and-mouth disease in the domestic livestock herd. This project includes working with a multistate education consortium. “Part of my role is to use past contacts and experiences to tap into relationships at the federal level,” he said. “It will be a challenge and will test my mettle. But we need that broad base of information and understanding at the table.” Prior to his work at the University of Minnesota, Hugoson served as commissioner of the Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA). It’s a post he held for nearly 16 years and through three gubernatorial administrations. And again, he credits his education for this success. “Most of my colleagues in other states were agriculture school grads. Veterinarians,” he said. “Mine was social science and education—in reality, it was perfect. It is key for these kinds of roles.” Hugoson also credits his success to a lifetime of farming. He 36 Augsburg Now farmed while at MDA. He farmed before that, during the five terms he was a member of the Minnesota House of Representatives. Even in his new post, he still farms 600 acres of corn and soybeans located less than a mile from the East Chain, Minn., farm on which he was raised. “I kept farming out of necessity to keep my day job,” Hugoson said. “The governors said they wanted a real farmer. I think being a farmer turned out to be a huge plus. I have credibility with the farming community. I can stand up and talk about what it’s like to be in the combine all night because of threatening weather or at the elevator selling my beans.” As much as farming has helped Hugoson succeed in his public leadership roles, it also has other rewards. “Farming also is my relaxation,” Hugoson said. “In the tractor or combine, I can see what I accomplish right behind me. That’s not always the case at the office. It’s nice to see corn combined or tilled earth.” STEPHANIE WEISS a an augsburg legacy to sy p h o g k celebratin Harriett Kure hday. her 90th birt Harriett Kurek, a long-time member of Trinity Lutheran Congregation, generously included a gift of $250,000 to Augsburg College in her will. “She was a very giving, caring person to her family and to her community,” said her niece, Joyce Nyland. Senior Pastor Jane BuckleyFarlee said Kurek loved the way Trinity is involved the Cedar-Riverside neighborhood and appreciated how Augsburg shares that commitment with Trinity and welcomes the congregation on its campus. C o u rte Courtesy photo Harriett Kurek an augsburg legacy 1-800-273-0617 www.augsburg.edu/giving 2211 Riverside Avenue Minneapolis, MN 55454 Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Twin Cities, MN Permit No. 2031 2010 Presidential Award for Community Service In the summer, Augsburg’s laboratories and classrooms come alive with the enthusiasm of our neighborhood youth. Aspiring scientists and future healthcare professionals learn through programs like Girls in Engineering, Mathematics, and Science (GEMS) and Guys in Science and Engineering (GISE), as well as the Urban Scrubs camp (pictured here). These are three of the programs for which Augsburg was recognized this year with the 2010 Presidential Award for Community Service. (See story on page 3).
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Title: Augsburg Now Fall 2012: Living Our Calling
Collection: Alumni Magazine Collection
Search Result: AUGSBURG NOW Opening Convocation At this year’s opening convocation, Augsburg College welcomed nearly 400 new first-year students and 160 transfer students to campus. The College also added 437 new students in adult undergraduate and graduate programs in Minneapolis and Rochester, Minn., t...
Show more AUGSBURG NOW Opening Convocation At this year’s opening convocation, Augsburg College welcomed nearly 400 new first-year students and 160 transfer students to campus. The College also added 437 new students in adult undergraduate and graduate programs in Minneapolis and Rochester, Minn., this fall. Higher education in the 21st century 30 years of Weekend and Evening College Stewardship of space MAL celebrates 25 years 40 years of women’s athletics and Title IX Auggie Days 2012 living OUR calling FALL 2012 | VOL. 75, NO. 1 inside 2211 Riverside Avenue Minneapolis, MN 55454 Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Twin Cities, MN Permit No. 2031 notes from President Pribbenow Stewardship of place and people t he Augsburg College mission statement says that Augsburg “educates students to be informed citizens, thoughtful stewards, critical thinkers, and responsible leaders.” These aspirations for our students require that all of us who are part of the Augsburg community consider how we model in our lives and work the core values embodied in these aspirations. In other words, we need to live what we teach! This issue of Augsburg Now offers several examples of how we are seeking as a college community to live as thoughtful stewards. You’ve read in past issues of this magazine the remarkable progress we have made as an institution in our commitment to environmental stewardship—composting leftover food from the cafeteria, community gardens on campus, new biodiesel production methods, and a commitment to carbon neutrality by 2019. All important work, but stewardship is a rich concept and extends to our care for all of the gifts we have been given as a community. I am particularly struck by how our College has explored ways in which we care for our physical location and facilities. The 2010 Campus Space and Master Plan is not simply a map to future facilities; it is a statement of values around stewardship of the land and buildings we occupy and the need for us to be constantly vigilant about the opportunities to renew, reuse, and extend the life of our spaces and buildings. In addition, the plan points to our commitment to stewarding relationships with our neighbors, building facilities and designing landscapes that welcome our neighbors to campus rather than keep them away. Stewardship is also about people—and as I was reminded again this year at our Homecoming celebrations, Augsburg is all about people. The upcoming celebration of the 40th anniversary of Title IX—the landmark federal legislation that seeks to ensure equity for women and men in intercollegiate athletics—is an example of what it means to be good stewards of our people. For years and years, women students at Augsburg participated in athlet- Vice President of Marketing and Communication Rebecca John rjohn@augsburg.edu Creative Associate-Editorial Wendi Wheeler ’06 wheelerw@augsburg.edu Integrated Communication Specialist Laura Swanson swansonl@augsburg.edu Creative Director Kathy Rumpza ’05 MAL rumpza@augsburg.edu Senior Creative Associate-Design Jen Nagorski ’08 nagorski@augsburg.edu Photographer Stephen Geffre geffre@augsburg.edu Director of News and Media Services Stephanie Weiss weisss@augsburg.edu Production Manager/Now Online ics without the support and recognition enjoyed by their male counterparts. A couple of years ago, we honored those unheralded women Auggies with the athletic letters they never received while on campus. Now, we lift up our enduring commitment to opportunities for all Auggie student-athletes. Our recent news about establishing the first intercollegiate women’s lacrosse program in Minnesota is just one example of how we steward the gifts of people—students, faculty, staff, alumni, parents, and friends who make Augsburg strong! In 1931, the renowned 20th-century theologian Reinhold Niebuhr wrote in The Christian Century an essay with the provocative title, “Is Stewardship Ethical?” His indictment of Christians for the ways in which they had turned stewardship into random programs of fundraising and voluntarism stands as a relevant challenge to all of us. We are called to be thoughtful stewards. Stewardship is a way of life. At Augsburg, we are working hard to live what we teach. Yours in Augsburg, Mark Chamberlain chamberm@augsburg.edu Senior Director of Alumni and Constituent Relations Kim Stone stonek@augsburg.edu augsburg.edu Augsburg Now is published by Augsburg College 2211 Riverside Ave. Minneapolis, MN 55454 Opinions expressed in Augsburg Now do not necessarily reflect official College policy. ISSN 1058-1545 Send address corrections to: Advancement Services CB 142 Augsburg College 2211 Riverside Ave. Minneapolis, MN 55454 langemo@augsburg.edu Email: now@augsburg.edu PAUL C. PRIBBENOW, PRESIDENT Members of the Maroon & Silver Society lead by example with monthly gifts of $84 or more, or annual gifts of $1,000 or more to The Augsburg Fund. These unrestricted gifts to The Augsburg Fund allow the College to award more financial aid, employ high-quality faculty and staff, offer a challenging and thought-provoking academic curriculum, and provide support to our students so that they can become the people they are called to be. To learn more about the Maroon & Silver Society, contact the Office of Annual Giving at 612-330-1652 or giving@augsburg.edu. augsburg.edu/giving WE ARE CALLED auggies fall 2012 Features 8 Calling and purpose: Lutheran higher education in the 21st century | BY LAURA SWANSON 11 Stewardship of space | BY REBECCA JOHN 16 Auggie Days 2012 | BY STEPHEN GEFFRE AND WENDI WHEELER ’06 20 Augsburg College annual report 23 Homecoming 2012 26 Weekend and Evening College celebrates 30th anniversary | BY LAURA SWANSON Departments 2 Around the Quad | 6 Augsburg celebrates 40 years of women’s athletics | 15 Auggie voices 19 My Auggie experience | 22 It takes an Auggie | 31 Alumni news | 37 Alumni class notes All photos by Stephen Geffre unless otherwise indicated. quad around the COLLEGE In August, the College announced support of the “Vote No” work of Minnesotans United for All Families to prevent passage MINNESOTANS of a Minnesota Constitutional UNITED FOR amendment that would ALL FAMILIES define marriage. The College is proud to stand with five of Minnesota’s synods of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, nearly 600 businesses and organizations, and 150 ordained church leaders. The College’s decision to support the “Vote No” effort is grounded in the commitment of the College to end discrimination; its academic tradition of critical and humble inquiry and of modeling and fostering civil discourse; and its Lutheran heritage, which requires that we build inclusive communities, learn from the other, and seek social justice. SUPPORTS VOTE NO Courtesy photo WORK OF celebrating success A group of Augsburg College McNair Scholars and staff attended the 20th Annual McNair Scholars Symposium in California in August. Front Row [L to R]: McNair Scholars Program assistant Lara Crombie, Beau Elkington ’13, Alexandra “Alix” Young ’13, Allison Zank ’14, Nou Yang ’13, Shoua Moua ’13, McNair Scholars Program director Tina Maria Tavera, Nikki Stauffer ’13; Back Row [L to R]: Jazmine Darden ’13, Arianna Genis ’13, Roseanna “Rosie” Benser ’13, Jon Barrick ’13, Charlie Olson ’13, Dustin Ritchea ’13, Leah Tillman ’13, and McNair Scholars Program assistant director Brian Greening McNair Scholars Program grant renewed for five years; STUDENTS PRESENT AT NATIONAL CONFERENCE To read a sampling of feedback on the College’s decision, go to augsburg.edu/now. Sociology professor honored by peers DISTINGUISHED CONTRIBUTIONS TO TEACHING AWARD Augsburg College’s McNair Scholars Program recently received a renewal grant for five years. The total award of $1.1 million from the U.S. Department of Education will provide $220,000 per year from 2012 to 2017. The McNair Scholars Program prepares first-generation, low income, and underrepresented students for doctoral studies. This August, 12 Auggies traveled to the University of California, Berkeley for the 20th Annual McNair Scholars Symposium. Many of the students presented findings from their facultyled, on-campus summer research. Students who participate in the McNair Scholars Program spend an average of 400 hours exploring their topics, developing theses, collecting and reviewing data, and preparing formal paper presentations. 2 Augsburg Now Sociology professor Diane Pike was named co-recipient of the Distinguished Contributions to Teaching Award at the 2012 meeting of the American Sociological Association (ASA). Pike, who received her PhD from Yale Diane Pike University, was honored for her nearly 20 years of commitment as evidenced by her extensive presentations to teaching colleagues via paper sessions, professional workshops, regional meetings, keynote and panel participation, and more. Pike also is editor of TRAILS (Teaching Resources and Innovations Library for Sociology), the ASA’s online library of teaching materials. Physics faculty receive awards from National Science Foundation Eboo Patel, president and founder of Interfaith Youth Core, spoke at the Bernhard M. Christensen Symposium. Mark Engebretson, physics professor, was awarded $243,000 to study Earth’s space environment, known as the magnetosphere. The award, Number Mark Engebretson Ben Stottrup 1142045 from the National Science Foundation (NSF), brings to more than $1.8 million the awards earned by Engebretson since mid-2008. In addition to his teaching and research, Engebretson recently presented at a pre-launch meeting for NASA officials and members of the Radiation Belt Storm Probes (RBSP) science team. His ground-based space research will strengthen the work of the RBSP mission that launched in late August. Ground data gathered by Augsburg instruments in the Arctic will provide a large-scale picture of what is happening in the Earth’s environment to add to the data gathered by the RBSP satellite probes. Associate Professor of Physics Ben Stottrup was awarded more than $157,000 by the NSF for investigation of pattern formation and morphology in two-dimensional, selfassembled model biomembranes. The work will allow Stottrup to continue research on how multicomponent lipid systems spontaneously assemble. The long-term goals of this work are to contribute to the development of new biomaterials and nanotechnology and to prepare undergraduates from diverse backgrounds for careers at the intersection of the physical sciences and biology. The funding is from NSF award Number 1207544. MANY VOICES BOLD VISIONS CONVOCATION SERIES 2012-13 The Convocation series kicked off during September with the Bernhard M. Christensen Symposium. Eboo Patel, president and founder of Interfaith Youth Core, spoke about the holiness of common ground and the value of developing interfaith understanding. During October, the Center for Counseling and Health Promotion Convocation was an opportunity for the Augsburg community to learn from psychiatrist and author, Dr. Henry Emmons, about ways to restore mental and emotional resilience in the face of depression, anxiety, and other stress-related conditions. The Humanities and Fine Arts Convocation in November featured Dan Phillips, a designer and builder of recycled housing. Phillips also is founder of The Phoenix Commotion, a local building initiative that, according to its website, was created to demonstrate that salvaged materials are viable building materials. The Convocation series is a cross-disciplinary speaker series that explores ideas and thoughts around the impact each person can have in a world of 6.9 billion people. To see photos and video from the Convocation series, go to augsburg.edu/now. Dual MBA/MAL program meets needs of senior-level employees The work world is an ever-evolving place, and Augsburg College continually seeks ways to meet the ongoing needs of students who strive to advance their careers. One new example of the College’s approach is its fall 2012 offering of a dual Master of Business Administration/Master of Arts in Leadership program. Students in one program now will be able to add skills and knowledge from the other program and to earn master’s degrees in both areas. The program can be completed in as few as three years. at Fall 2012 3 quad around the accelerates path to MBA 4+1 Traditional undergraduate students will be able to earn a bachelor of arts in business and a Master of Business Administration in just five years beginning in the fall of 2013 through Augsburg’s new “MBA 4 + 1” program. The program, the first of its kind in the Twin Cities, offers an accelerated schedule that is cost efficient because it reduces overall time spent in college. Designed for traditional undergraduates, the program will be friendly to international students, will feature close academic advising relationships, and will include hands-on learning through focused internships. The College is exploring how the program might serve students at other Minnesota colleges that do not offer graduate programs. Correction: In the “Honoring Our Retired Faculty” story on pages 17-18 of the summer 2012 edition of Augsburg Now, information about Norma Noonan’s education was incorrectly cited. A corrected version of Noonan’s information is posted here. Professor of Political Science Norma Noonan served Augsburg for more than 45 years, joining the faculty during 1966. She was instrumental in the development of the Master of Arts in Leadership, the College’s inaugural graduate program, and served as program director for 18 years. She chaired the Political Science Department, served on key faculty committees, and was a mentor to many. In addition, Noonan was founding director of what now is the Center for Teaching and Learning. Noonan received a bachelor of arts in political science from the University of Pennsylvania. She earned a master of arts and PhD in political science from Indiana University. She also holds a certificate in Russian and East European Studies from Indiana University. 4 Augsburg Now Regents elect Harpstead as chair Courtesy photo New program Jodi Harpstead, chief executive officer of Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota, was elected chair of the Augsburg College Board of Regents at its May 2012 meeting and began her term on July 1. As chair of the governing board of Jodi Harpstead the College, Harpstead will play a key leadership role in Augsburg’s planning and fundraising initiatives. She will guide the Board’s oversight of the College’s strategic priorities, including: • Helping define the plan to build a signature academic building, the Center for Science, Business, and Religion; • Ensuring the quality and relevance of the academic offerings; and • Monitoring the development of a long-range enrollment plan for the College. Harpstead has served on the Board of Regents since 2005. In addition, the Augsburg Corporation at its September meeting elected four new members to the Board of Regents. Each member was elected to a fouryear term. Newly elected Regents include: • Jennie Carlson, executive vice president of human resources for U.S. Bancorp; • Pam Moksnes ’79, management consultant; • Curt Sampson, chairman and director of Canterbury Park Holding Corporation; and • Steve Wehrenberg ’78, chief executive officer of Campbell Mithun. Regents elected to second, four-year terms include Mark Eustis, Alexander Gonzalez ’90, and Eric Jolly. Anthony Genia ’85 was elected to a third, four-year term. Thank you to Philip Styrlund ’79, who retired from the Board of Regents after 12 years of service to the College. Upholstery project supports local economy experiential At first glance, the choice to refurbish the chairs in Hoversten Chapel is just good financial management. The move to refresh versus replace the chairs saved the College more than $40,000. But that’s only the surface of the decision. What really went on gets to the heart of what it means to be a good steward. When the College this past summer opted to refurbish the 17-year-old chairs, staff requested a bid from All About Upholstery, a locally owned business. “We had worked with Tonya, the owner, on a smaller project in the old coffee shop, and she was great,” said Matt Rumpza, director of Purchasing and Central Support Services. “By making the decision to reupholster the chairs, we were making an environmentally friendly and cost-sensitive decision.” Tonya DuRoche, who lives in the Cedar-Riverside neighborhood, worked with her team to refresh 597 chairs. The job included new upholstery, replacing the seat and back cushions, regluing joints, and touch-up varnishing. It was rewarding work, too. “Contributing to the comfort of students who are studying and those who are practicing their spirituality in the chapel is a way to contribute to the future,” DuRoche said. DuRoche, who is committed to her community and other local businesses, sources nearly all of her fabrics from a familyowned company in Minneapolis. Studies show that money Tonya DuRoche, owner, All About Upholstery spent locally stays in a community longer than money spent at companies with headquarters outside of that community, state, or region. In fact, the 2004 Andersonville Study of Retail Economics found that $100 spent in locally owned independent stores returns $68 to the community through taxes, payroll, and other expenditures. Money spent at a national chain only returns $43 to the community. DuRoche also hires and trains local employees. She completes a mix of residential and large-scale commercial work for tribal businesses such as casinos and helps stabilize other local companies by providing suppliers with a fairly steady stream of business. In turn, her suppliers are able to provide a stable income for their employees. This interconnected way of doing business is important to her. “It’s a way to be an entrepreneurial role model, to give back to our community,” said DuRoche, a member of the Iowa Tribe of Kansas and Nebraska. “I’ve always wanted to be an artist or work in the medical field. This gives me the chance to offer a kind of healing by creating beauty in surroundings.” National Society for Experiential Education AWARD Augsburg College’s commitment to experiential education was recognized for the third time in as many years on October 5 when the National Society for Experiential Education (NSEE) presented President Paul C. Pribbenow with the 2012 William M. Burke Presidential Award for Excellence in Experiential Education. The award, presented by the NSEE and funded by The Washington Center for Academic Internships and Seminars, celebrates the dedication of a sitting college or university president who has made significant contributions to experiential education on campus and in the community. Pribbenow was nominated for the award by Garry Hesser, sociologoy professor and Sabo Professor for Citizenship and Learning; Orval Gingerich, assistant vice president for international programs; and Lois Olson, former director of the Strommen Center for Meaningful Work. The Burke Award, a testament to the fact that hands-on learning is a core part of the College’s curriculum, includes a $2,000 scholarship that will be awarded to a deserving Auggie who is involved in experiential learning. education Fall 2012 5 2012 Augsburg celebrates 40 years of women’s athletics The passage of Title IX, enacted as part of the U.S. Education Amendment of 1972, mandated equal opportunities in education, allowing women to participate on high school and college athletic teams. But the tradition of women’s athletics at Augsburg actually dates back to the earliest days of Auggie athletics in the 1920s. On November 10, Augsburg celebrated 40 years of varsity women’s athletics and the 40th anniversary of the passage of Title IX. Lavonne (Mrs. Pete) Peterson ’50 and Joyce Pfaff ’65 were honored at the celebration with “One of Our Own” plaques for their contributions to Augsburg College and the Athletic Department. In addition, female athletes from each decade were chosen for All-decade Teams. Peterson, an instructor, coach, and women’s physical education director, started the Auggiettes basketball team in 1950 and coached the team for 18 years, leading them to an incredible 154-6 record. Pfaff, an Augsburg coach, instructor, and director of women’s athletics, started several women’s teams after the passage of Title IX and served the College for 43 years. Here we recognize a few of the leaders and milestones in women’s athletics at Augsburg. To read more about these women and others who contributed to the proud tradition of women’s athletics at Augsburg College, go to athletics.augsburg.edu. 1980 1995 1951 Auggiette basketball team 1972-73 1979 Women’s varsity intercollegiate volleyball, gymnastics, and tennis are founded while basketball is restarted. The softball team places second at the MAIAW State Tournament. 1985 1974-75 1970s 1970 The volleyball team places second in the Minnesota Association for Intercollegiate Athletics for Women (MAIAW) state tournament, qualifying to compete in the Region 6 AIAW tournament both years. The Auggies place fourth in the Region 6 tournament in 1974 and fifth in 1975. 1971 Softball is added as a varsity sport. Title IX is passed June 23, 1972. In both the floor exercise and balance beam, gymnast Ann Knutson Brovold ’74 is the first Augsburg female athlete to compete in a post-season event—an Association for Intercollegiate Athletics for Women (AIAW) Region 6 tournament. 6 Augsburg Now 1979-80 Kathy Korum ’81 is the first woman to play and letter on a men’s varsity team (golf). 1980 1974-75 1972 Women’s soccer is added as a varsity sport. 1980s 1975-76 Women’s track and field is added as a varsity sport. 1982-83 Augsburg joins the Minnesota Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (MIAC). 1981-82 The softball team qualifies for its first AIAW national tournament. 1988 1982 2003-04 1971 2006-07 1974 1999-00 1988 2012 Under coach Paul Grauer, the women’s track and field team earns a third place National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) team finish with Carolyn Ross Isaak ’89 and Melanie Herrera-Storlie ’88. Augsburg announces that it will establish the first varsity intercollegiate women’s lacrosse program in the state of Minnesota. 2003-04 1991 Women’s cross country is reestablished as part of the varsity athletics program. 1990 1990s 1995-96 Augsburg establishes the first Midwest varsity women's hockey team. Augsburg establishes the swim and dive program. 2000s 2010 2000 1999-00 2004-07 The women’s hockey team is the Division III national tournament runner-up in the American Women’s College Hockey Alliance (AWCHA). Women’s soccer qualifies for the MIAC playoffs. Fall 2012 7 CALLING PURPOSE LUTHERAN HIGHER EDUCATION IN THE 21ST CENTURY AS PAUL C. PRIBBENOW ENTERS THE SEVENTH YEAR OF HIS PRESIDENCY at Augsburg College, he believes Lutheran higher education is more relevant than ever before. Pribbenow affirmed this view through a summer sabbatical project in which he developed succinct ways to articulate how five theological traditions make Lutheran colleges and universities valuable—and sustainable—in an increasingly diverse society. For Pribbenow, the role of Lutheran higher education is well described by Darrell Jodock, professor emeritus at Gustavus Adolphus College. Jodock has written that a Lutheran college uses religion as the foundation of the institution’s identity so that it may explore “the riches of that tradition as part of its contribution to the community as a whole.” Jodock continues, “The Lutheran tradition summons a college to work out a ‘both…and,’ both affirming the religious identity and engaging with today’s world.” BY LAURA SWANSON 8 Augsburg Now GIFTS OF THE ELCA TRADITION P ribbenow during his sabbatical identified the ways in which five gifts of the Lutheran theological tradition serve colleges and universities as they navigate challenges in the 21st century. The tenets that he deems applicable to higher education include: 1. VOCATION theologically, Lutherans believe God has created humankind in all its diversity in God’s own image. Eboo Patel, founder and president of the Interfaith Youth Core, spoke during September on interfaith dialogue, neighborhood service, and intentional diversity at the Augsburg College Bernhard M. Christensen Symposium. Patel’s remarks allowed the Augsburg community to explore the concept of engaging with otherness and difference (see “Around the Quad,” page 3). The Lutheran view of vocation has a deep, philosophical meaning that extends beyond an individual’s occupation. Lutherans believe that all people have a calling—a vocation— to live a life that serves the well-being of their community. Lutheran colleges and universities are uniquely situated to help students of all ages and backgrounds. “Our students come to us hungry for something. Hungry for knowledge, yes. Hungry for career paths, yes. But they’re hungry for more,” Pribbenow said. “They are hungry for meaning. The concept of vocation gives us a way to talk with students in a nuanced and sophisticated manner about how they can live purposeful lives.” 2. CRITICAL AND HUMBLE INQUIRY A liberal arts education equips individuals with the skills and knowledge required to engage in civic life, public debate, and thoughtful analysis across a wide range of disciplines and topics. The Lutheran commitment to critical and humble inquiry highlights the importance of a liberal arts education in “teaching students how to go out into the world not as experts who lord their knowledge over others but as people who are determined to bring their particular wisdom or knowledge to bear,” Pribbenow said. 3. ENGAGING WITH OTHERNESS AND DIFFERENCE The world’s citizens live and work in increasingly complex and diverse cultures. Lutheran colleges are positioned to offer students the knowledge, skills, and values needed to navigate a world with people of all backgrounds and experiences. The liberal arts approach to learning and teaching has a fundamental commitment to engaging with otherness and difference so that people understand and embrace the richness of the human experience. Diversity is a core value of the Church because, 4. SERVICE AND JUSTICE Since the beginning of his Augsburg College presidency, Pribbenow has articulated a simple but powerful vision for the College: “We believe we are called to serve our neighbor.” The Lutheran commitment to service and justice is embraced and fulfilled in different capacities at each Lutheran college or university. But the institutions are unanimous in their desire to use education, civic engagement, and community service as pathways to develop informed citizens who engage with their neighbors. Service at Augsburg takes many forms, and the College is committed to the “anchor institution” movement—a model where service is not seen as one-way “charity” but instead an opportunity to find shared value among institutional partners and to strengthen the economic vitality and safety of the neighborhoods in which the institutions are located. Read the fall 2011 Augsburg Now article, “Community Relations,” at augsburg.edu/now to learn more about the College’s role as an anchor institution. 5. SEMPER REFORMANDA Translated from Latin as “always to be reformed,” semper reformanda is a tenet of Protestant reformist Martin Luther, who advocated for the Church to continually re-examine itself in order to maintain its vitality. The term, Pribbenow asserts, is useful for colleges and universities because it creates not an allowance for—but an expectation of—continuous review and change. This flexibility empowers institutions to implement initiatives to better serve students, to change policies that do not deploy resources responsibly, and to align themselves with contemporary market needs. Fall 2012 9 LIVING OUT A LUTHERAN CALLING T he five gifts of the Lutheran tradition that Pribbenow identified during his sabbatical project may serve as a common lexicon for the 26 U.S. higher education institutions committed to providing post-secondary education in affiliation with the ELCA. The ELCA colleges and universities are not held together by a centralized governance model, but rather choose to claim a common identity based on their shared values. The institutions form a mutually beneficial network where they help one another align their work to the deeply held values and priorities of the Lutheran faith so that all of its gifts are well used. Pribbenow’s sabbatical research is acutely relevant as each area of his investigation can deepen conversation among Lutheran colleges and universities across the United States during a time when the leadership at many of these institutions is in transition. Lutheran colleges and universities will undergo significant turnover in their leadership in the near future as current presidents at these institutions retire or move on to new vocational callings. Many institutions are changing their bylaws to allow non-Lutherans to apply for the openings in order to broaden the applicant pool for those positions. The implication of this trend already is visible. Pribbenow immediately used his sabbatical research to foster discussions with four individuals who do not hail from the Lutheran tradition but who were slated to begin their presidencies this fall at the Lutheran institutions Carthage College, Newberry College, Pacific Lutheran University, and Wittenberg University. The integration of non-Lutherans into the leadership of ELCA institutions fosters critical review and offers a new perspective to existing ELCA college presidents, like Pribbenow, who are deeply rooted in the Lutheran faith. “It sometimes takes a non-Lutheran to remind us of the gifts of this tradition and to lift them up,” said Pribbenow, who was raised the son of a Lutheran pastor. Pribbenow’s commitment to leading Augsburg as a “both… and” Lutheran college is firm. “Being Lutheran is our bedrock,” Pribbenow said. “The gifts of this firm foundation enrich our students’ experiences and strengthen our future.” 10 Augsburg Now The focus of Pribbenow’s sabbatical research is lived out daily on the Augsburg College campus where the gifts of the Lutheran tradition are paired with the gifts of the College’s urban setting. Higher education models and expectations are shifting at a rapid pace, which requires universities to embrace semper reformanda and engage in continuous review and change. Because Augsburg’s Minneapolis campus is located in the Cedar-Riverside neighborhood, the College is uniquely situated to live out the commitments of its Lutheran tradition in a seamless, integrated manner. Located in one of the more diverse ZIP codes in the nation, Augsburg College students have daily opportunities to engage with people from across the globe, become committed to service and justice at organizations throughout the neighborhood, and—as a result—participate in critical and humble inquiry. Ultimately, these features allow the College to fulfill its calling to prepare students for meaningful vocations. “I was called to Augsburg to tell our story,” Pribbenow said. “I’m proud of this College and its Lutheran heritage because it allows us to live out our mission, to create an educational space that’s welcoming and progressive, and to serve our community on local and global levels.” Pribbenow was granted a two-part sabbatical as a provision of his contract, which the Augsburg College Board of Regents approved in 2008. The sabbatical was slated for the end of his sixth year at the College, and he conducted his research project for six weeks from July to mid-August at the ELCA churchwide headquarters in Chicago. ELCA Presiding Bishop Mark Hanson ’68 invited Pribbenow to spend his sabbatical at the denomination’s headquarters because the two men are engaged in ongoing conversations about Augsburg and the wider context of Lutheran higher education. In Chicago, Pribbenow also spoke with ELCA leaders “who consider how the Lutheran church expresses itself in the world,” Pribbenow said. “Church leaders understand that colleges are one of the places where the Lutheran faith is explored deeply, but they don’t necessarily understand every aspect of our lives.” The sabbatical, he said, was an excellent opportunity both to educate and to learn. During December, Pribbenow will travel to Asia with his family for the second leg of his sabbatical. On their trip, the Pribbenows will visit the birthplaces of their children Thomas (Soc Trang, Vietnam) and Maya (Chonquing, China). The Pribbenows will return to Minneapolis before the end of 2012. BY REBECCA JOHN STEWARDSHIP OF SPACE & PLAN CAMPUS SPACE Twenty-three acres. MASTER That’s the area of Augsburg’s Minneapolis campus—roughly the size of 21 football fields. As an urban college, Augsburg recognizes that thoughtful stewardship of this finite resource is critical to its success in serving students and providing an affordable, high-quality educational experience. That’s why, in 2010, a cross-functional team—including faculty, staff, and outside consultants—established the Augsburg Campus Space and Master Plan. This 20-year strategic vision for the use, reuse, and improvement of Augsburg’s nineblock urban campus identifies and integrates near-term priorities with future construction plans. The result is a logical, cohesive progression of projects and enhancements that work in concert to enable the College to achieve its long-term vision for the campus. “How we use our space is part of how we express our priorities and tell our story—how we live out our mission and promise to students,” said Tammy McGee, Augsburg vice president and chief financial officer. “One of the core tenets of the Campus Space and Master Plan is that Augsburg College, in its current footprint, has enough space to deliver on its mission,” said McGee, who led the year-long planning commission effort. The focus of the long-term plan is on stewardship—“building to replace, fix, or improve our spaces, not necessarily to have more space,” she said. The master plan’s focus on student experience is evident in that it is built around the College’s No. 1 campus priority: the planned Center for Science, Business, and Religion. The center will be constructed on the west side of 21st Avenue South, across from the James G. Lindell Library, replacing the existing Science Hall, which was built in 1949. “Augsburg’s vision for the Center for Science, Business, and Religion is a physical manifestation of the interdisciplinary inquiry and critical thinking our faculty bring into classroom and lab experiences every day,” said Barbara Farley, vice president of academic affairs and dean of the College. “Augsburg believes that co-locating and fostering deep inquiry across these academic disciplines will prepare our students to be the problem solvers, leaders, and citizens our community and nation will need in the 21st century.” While the College continues the fundraising effort for the Center for Science, Business, and Religion, the campus master plan guides progress on other campus and interior space improvements that help prepare for and complement the new building. One of the main goals in improving campus space usage, according to David Draus, Augsburg Facilities Management director, is to create adjacencies—locating departments that work together near each other to help improve their effectiveness. A prime example of this work was the Gage Center for Student Success and Groves Technology Center, which opened in the spring of 2012, co-locating a range of student support services at the heart of campus. (See “Gage Center for Student Success” in the summer 2012 Augsburg Now.) Following this model, the College moved its career and internship services staff into the newly renovated Clair and Gladys Strommen Center for Meaningful Work this summer. (See sidebar, page 14.) “Because of the vision and generosity of the Strommen, Gage, and Groves families, Augsburg was able to enter this academic year with two new, beautiful spaces dedicated to The Center for Science, Business, and Religion 12 Augsburg Now The Clair and Gladys Strommen Center for Meaningful Work overlooks the Quad from the main level of Christensen Center. Directly outside its floor-to-ceiling windows is the “Burning Bush” sculpture, funded in 1989 by Clair and Gladys Strommen and created by Augsburg Professor Emeritus of Art, Norm Holen. serving students throughout their educational journeys and beyond,” said Augsburg President Paul C. Pribbenow. “By locating these centers in such highly visible, high-traffic areas, we expect a dramatic increase in the number of students who will take advantage of the academic and career services Augsburg offers.” With the opening of the Gage Center, several student support departments moved out of Science Hall, which, Draus said, opened up space for additional moves that better support student and department needs. For example, Augsburg’s signature Undergraduate Research and Graduate Opportunity (URGO) program moved to a larger space in Science Hall, and that shift enabled the College to expand its psychology labs and to add student and faculty space in mathematics and environmental studies. The Department of Nursing also moved to Science Hall—at least until that building is ready to be razed—as the department had outgrown its former suite in Memorial Hall. “As much as is possible with these moves, we are working to minimize the amount of disruption and relocation that will be required when the Center for Science, Business, and Religion is built,” Draus said. URGO, psychology, mathematics, and environmental studies are all slated to move out of Science Hall to the new Center once it is built. The College’s space upgrades also include several highprofile projects in Christensen Center. This past fall, the College moved all of its admissions operations—first-year, transfer, adult undergraduate, and graduate—together in a welcoming new suite in the lower level of Christensen Center, creating a warm and engaging first impression for visiting prospective students and their families. This move also created important adjacencies. With the new Strommen Center for Meaningful Work just upstairs from the Office of Admissions, campus tours now “begin with the end in mind” by talking with families about how the entire Augsburg educational experience prepares students for postgraduate and lifelong learning and success. As with the Gage Center, co-locating the admissions teams created additional opportunities for repurposing space in Christensen Center. One of the major results was a newly refurbished suite for Augsburg Abroad, the International Student and Scholar Services team, and the College’s multicultural student services directors. The new location for these groups is just down the hall from the admissions office and the Campus Activities and Orientation department. So now, the admissions team can easily introduce prospective students to staff and programs that support some of the major life-changing opportunities that a college experience provides. Augsburg Abroad, International Student and Scholar Services, and the multicultural student services directors previously were housed in Murphy Place, which was originally built in 1964 as a temporary structure across 7½ Avenue from Murphy Square park. With those groups now in Christensen Center and Augsburg’s Center for Global Education relocated in the Anderson Hall suite that formerly housed the Strommen Center, Murphy Place was vacated and, as outlined in the Campus Space and Master Plan, was scheduled to be razed. The campus master plan does not call for developing the land where Murphy Place previously stood until other, higher-priority construction projects are completed, but it does outline a long-term vision for creating a green-space gathering area in that location. While there certainly were numerous changes on campus in the past year, not all campus improvements involve relocation. & SCIENCE BUSINESS RELIGION Fall 2012 13 “Many of the improvements involved upgrading furniture to foster more collaboration and interaction in existing spaces,” said Matt Rumpza, director of Purchasing and Central Support Services. Two examples of these kinds of upgrades include the casual learning spaces in Old Main and outside the Enrollment Center—a centralized services location where students can meet with a financial aid counselor, process late registrations, and work with the Registrar’s office to finalize their graduation application. “We also did significant renovations in Hoversten Chapel,” Rumpza said. Upgrades included introducing a new sound system, recarpeting the stage risers, and refurbishing the chairs for the chapel and nearby TjornhomNelson Theater (see “Around the Quad,” page 5). “Rather than throw the existing 600 chairs into a landfill, we were able to hire a locally owned business to recover and refurbish them,” Rumpza said. “We get a refreshed look for our chapel while supporting the vitality of our neighborhood.” Old Main The Enrollment Center 14 Augsburg Now Cutting the ribbon at the opening ceremony of the Clair and Gladys Strommen Center for Meaningful Work is Gladys Boxrud Strommen ’46. She is joined by her family [L to R], granddaughter Tjersti Strommen ’07, son Robert Strommen ’74, grandson Bjorn Strommen, and grandson Hans Strommen ’04, along with Augsburg President Paul C. Pribbenow. Clair and Gladys Strommen Center for Meaningful Work moves to campus student center On September 28, members of the Clair ’46 and Gladys Strommen family joined Augsburg students, staff, and faculty at the ribbon-cutting ceremony to open the Clair and Gladys Strommen Center for Meaningful Work in its new, central location on the main level of Christensen Center. Located within eyesight of Einstein Bros. Bagels and directly on the path to the stairwell to the Christensen Commons, the Strommen Center makes a statement to hundreds of passers-by each day about Augsburg’s commitment to helping students find meaningful work. “Meaningful work, or discerning one’s vocational calling, is not just about being successful in one’s career,” said Amy Gort, assistant vice president and dean of arts and sciences. “Vocation is about developing and using your gifts to serve others. So, it involves understanding not only your own strengths but also the larger context of where those talents and strengths can best be put to use. This exploration is an important part of what makes an Augsburg education unique.” “This Center is a place where students, both past and present, can get the assistance they need” in finding meaningful work, said Gladys Strommen, who spoke at the grand opening ceremony. “Four generations of the Strommen family have been part of Augsburg,” she said. “Clair [Gladys’ husband, who passed away in 2001] would be so pleased that this Center has become a reality.” Clair and Gladys’ son, Bob Strommen, also spoke at the dedication event, honoring the work his mother has done over the years to fulfill the dreams of both of his parents. “The gift [to fund the relocation of the Center] was an event, but the hope is that the Center will be a journey—for the College, as well as for faculty, staff, students, and alumni. We all come [to college] for an education,” he said, “but the dream is to leave and have a meaningful life. To help our students have an impact on what’s important to them in their lives—that’s our hope for this Center.” auggie voices Music with a mission Since her graduation from Augsburg College, Sarah Elhardt ’06 has gone from playing piano and French horn arrangements in Hoversten Chapel and Sateren Auditorium to performing experimental, orchestral indie rock at concert venues and music festivals across the United States. In 2008, the multi-instrumentalist joined Minneapolis-based band Cloud Cult—a nationally acclaimed group recognized by Rolling Stone magazine for its commitment to the environment. Elhardt said her music education at Augsburg prepared her for performing on three instruments and singing during Cloud Cult shows, but she laughed when she acknowledged that during her time at the College she was more accustomed to “playing gospel praise” than rock music. Preparation for meaningful work Elhardt enrolled at Augsburg because she wanted to continue her family’s tradition of attending a private Lutheran college. Originally from a northern suburb of the Twin Cities metro area, Elhardt sought to establish roots in the art and music scenes of Minnesota’s most urban city. She declared majors in music and marketing communication—degree programs that allowed her to develop skills required in a variety of careers. “I was always trying to figure out how music performance, teaching, and arts administration could be a part of my life,” she said. After graduation, Elhardt worked in arts administration at the Minnesota Orchestra and the Dakota Jazz Club. In 2007, she founded her own piano studio through which she instructs more than 40 students. Teaching allows Elhardt to positively impact her community while sharing her passion for music with a younger generation. Yet, Elhardt said she also felt called to use her musical talents for performance. The opportunity to join Cloud Cult aligned with her vocational goal and her desire to be a thoughtful steward of the Earth’s environment. Cloud Cult: Music and mission Cloud Cult, formed in 1995, was described in a 2008 Rolling Stone article as “extremely environmentally conscious: They tour in a biodiesel van, record in a geothermal-powered studio, and even printed their liner notes on recycled paper with nontoxic vegetable oils.” The band’s green focus resounded with Elhardt. “I had found a way to play music and love playing music,” she said. “I’m sharing a positive message around the world.” Cloud Cult performs in venues across the U.S., and many of the shows occur in environmentally friendly cities such as Boston, New York, Portland, and Seattle. Elhardt joined Cloud Cult on stage in Chicago’s famed Millennium Park this past summer, and few venues seem a more perfect fit for a performance by the band. Millennium Park’s creation transformed more than two dozen acres of industrial wasteland into a world-class center for art and music. Cloud Cult crafts multimedia art during each of its performances, and the eight-person group includes two trained artists who start with a blank canvas at the beginning of each show, which adds a visual aspect to the concert experience. Cloud Cult performances are opportunities to mix art forms, indie-rock, and environmental activism. Band members like Elhardt see their openhearted songs as a call to action toward a greener world. “It’s music with a purpose, not just another rock band,” she said. LAURA SWANSON Fall 2012 15 auggie days CITY SERVICE DAY September 4, 2012 Every year on the day before fall semester classes begin, first-year and new undergraduate transfer students in the day program participate in City Service Day projects in the neighborhoods surrounding campus. Students are organized into “AugSem” groups according to their anticipated fields of study. The purpose of AugSem is to help new students embrace the learning community at Augsburg by encountering the community, engaging in the learning process, and exploring their academic interests. Students meet with their AugSem faculty and student leaders throughout their first semester. En route to Aesthetic Apparatus Powderhorn Park 16 Augsburg Now Focus Minnesota Brian Coyle Community Center Mixed Blood Theatre KFAI Radio Cedar Cultural Center Mississippi River West Bank Business Association Cedar Riverside Community School Trinity Lutheran Congregation Augsburg Community Garden Korean Peace Garden More than 400 students, faculty, and staff served at 20 locations throughout the community on City Service Day. Bethany Lutheran Church SPOKES Aesthetic Apparatus Seward Montessori School Holy Rosary Church Matthew’s Center Minnesota Indian Women’s Resource Center Bedlam Theatre Focus Minnesota Powderhorn Park Fall 2012 17 New Auggie Tradition begins with Class of 2016 PICTURE THIS: Hoversten Chapel is packed with nearly 400 first-year students, excited about beginning their Augsburg classes after a week of Auggie Days orientation activities. They are grouped into the “neighborhoods” they’ve been connected to since their summer orientation: CedarRiverside, Downtown East, Downtown West, Hiawatha, Loring Park, Midtown Phillips, Powderhorn Park, Seward, and University. They’ve just learned who won each of the events they competed in during the Neighborhood Challenge, one of the most highly anticipated activities of Auggie Days: • Auggie Pride for the neighborhood that sported the most Augsburg bling— 18 Augsburg Now shirts, buttons, lanyards, and more! • Scavenger Hunt all across campus • Knowledge Bowl about Auggie trivia, which is not so trivial after all • Pie-Eating Contest • Obstacle Course through a giant inflatable bounce house in Murphy Square park • Water Relay celebrating the Land of 10,000 Lakes In the chapel, they begin shouting their neighborhood cheers, trying to drown out every other neighborhood. The orientation leaders (OLs), a group of 18 returning students who have guided, encouraged, and supported these first-year students, file up to the front of the chapel. They are welcomed with thunderous applause. And then, the big finale comes, thanks to biology professor Jennifer Bankers-Fulbright (called “Dr. B” by her students). It’s the call-back cheer she originated. OLs: We are called! First-years: AUGGIES!!! OLs: We are called! First-years: AUGGIES!!! OLs: We are called! First-years: AUGGIES!!! Can’t you just hear it? It’s a new year marked by a new tradition. Watch the video at ow.ly/dEBWh WE ARE CALLED auggies my Auggie experience Tina Prchal (left) and Wendi Wheeler ’06 (right). Helping a new Auggie get Started On the first Saturday of the 2012 Weekend and Evening College (WEC) fall term, Tina Prchal seemed as excited and nervous about returning to college as you might expect a new student to be. Tina met with me on that first day of classes through Augsburg’s “Start” program, which helps new WEC students transition to Augsburg and provides WEC alumni an opportunity to help those new Auggies navigate their college experience. At lunch in the Quad between Tina’s morning and afternoon classes, she talked about her first class—algebra. She said she loved her professor, but she was nervous about studying math after more than 20 years away from the subject. She also talked about her previous college experience, her current job, her family, her long commute to campus in the winter, and her career and educational goals. As I listened to Tina, I remembered my own feelings about beginning classes at Augsburg in 2001. Like Tina, I looked forward to being a student again but was also anxious about getting good grades, balancing life and work obligations with schoolwork, making friends, and, frankly, being able to stick with the program in order to complete my degree. What I know now, and what I shared with Tina that day, was just how much support is available at Augsburg for all students. For 30 years, students in Augsburg’s weekend and evening programs have achieved the goal of obtaining a degree through their own dedication and with the encouragement of staff and faculty. The Start program now gives WEC alumni an opportunity to join in to support students and help them achieve success at Augsburg. So how is it going for Tina? After her first week, she said she felt less intimidated. “I was afraid that I wasn’t going to be successful in my classes, but seeing that other students felt the same way as I did gave me confidence,” she said. “I’m so very glad I transferred to Augsburg.” SHARE YOUR SUCCESS WITH A NEW AUGGIE If you are a WEC alum, you can help support a new adult undergraduate student through the Augsburg Start program. Contact Pat Grans in Alumni Relations at 612-330-1329 or gransp@augsburg.edu to volunteer for the upcoming winter or spring trimester. WENDI WHEELER ’06 Fall 2012 19 Augsburg College 2011-2012 ANNUAL REPORT TO DONORS Thanks to the generosity of our donors, Augsburg College realized its most successful fundraising year in fiscal 2012, with $14,815,000 received from 4,350 donors. This philanthropy supports building and ongoing maintenance projects, financial aid, salaries, and other resources that allow Augsburg to provide a quality education to more than 4,000 students in our undergraduate and graduate programs in Minneapolis and Rochester, Minn. But more importantly, your gifts enhance and continue to grow the quality of teaching and learning at Augsburg, helping the College to attract gifted, ambitious students and the talented faculty and staff who teach and guide them. Your gifts help Augsburg educate future thinkers, stewards, leaders, and citizens of our world. We invite you to meet two outstanding Auggies: Jazmine Darden ’13, a mathematics and physics major, McNair Scholar, Phillips Scholar, North Star STEM Scholar, GEMS/GISE summer camp leader, and member of the residence life student staff. Eric Dooley ’13, a physics and secondary education major, Regents’ Scholar, Christensen Scholar, physics tutor, and offensive lineman and four-year starter for the Auiggie football team. 20 Augsburg Now To read more about Jazmine and Eric, go to augsburg.edu/now 2011-2012 FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS REVENUE BY SOURCE Tuition 70% Room and board 11% Private gifts and grants 11% Government grants 4% Other sources 4% EXPENSES BY CATEGORY Salary and benefits 44% Financial aid 26% Operating expenses* 18% Debt service 4% Equipment and capital improvements 3% Utilities and insurance 3% Student salaries 2% *Expenses in this category include: facility repairs and maintenance, information technology expenditures, marketing expenditures, membership dues and fees, outside consultants, supplies, and travel and business meetings. $33.3 $32.4 $31.5 $25.4 2004 $29.8 $28.2 $27.2 $27.8 May 31, 2012 $29,778,094 $24.5 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2012 ENDOWMENT MARKET VALUE 2011 2012 We are committed to maintaining the value of the principal gifts and providing support to the College in perpetuity. As of May 31, 2012, Augsburg had annual realized and unrealized losses of 8.91 percent on its endowment. Our five-year average annual return on the endowment is -1.61 percent, and the ten-year average annual return is 2.72 percent. (IN MILLIONS) Please visit augsburg.edu/giving/report for our 2012 Honor Roll of Donors. Fall 2012 21 it takes an Auggie Augsburg Associates The Augsburg College Associates is a service auxiliary of volunteers including alumni and friends of Augsburg whose mission includes fundraising for special projects and scholarships in support of the College. Throughout the year, the Associates manage estate and moving sales in the Minneapolis and St. Paul metro area and host a boutique and buffet for the annual Velkommen Jul celebration at Augsburg. For the past two years, they have also had a booth at the Taste of Augsburg during Homecoming weekend. The Associates have given to Augsburg more than a half million dollars from their fundraising efforts for projects, including: • creation of the Welcome Desk in Christensen Center, • renovation of the Green Room in Foss Center, • renovations of the Augsburg and Marshall rooms in Christensen Center, • creation of the Special Collections room in Lindell Library, and • purchase of the Dobson pipe organ in Hoversten Chapel. Thank you, Augsburg Associates, for your commitment to supporting Augsburg and our students! 22 Augsburg Now HOMECOMING During the past few years, the Augsburg Homecoming festivities have expanded beyond the classic class reunions, and this year was no exception. Homecoming 2012 included a reception for recent graduates, a reunion of the famed Cabaret Singers, a new networking breakfast for Latina and Latino alumni, a Silver Auggie reunion for alumni who graduated more than 50 years ago, a football game watch reception hosted by the A-Club, and anniversary celebrations for the Master of Arts in Leadership program (25 years) and the Weekend and Evening College (30 years). More than 2,000 alumni and friends came to campus for Homecoming 2012 to reconnect with former classmates and professors and to enjoy the Auggie spirit. Homecoming provides an opportunity for all Augsburg alumni to stay connected to the College. Save the date for Homecoming 2013: September 23 to 28. If you are interested in serving on your reunion committee or volunteering to help plan events, contact alumni@augsburg.edu. For more information, go to augsburg.edu/alumni for more information. 2012 go auggies Fall 2012 23 24 Augsburg Now 2012 alumni awards Distinguished Alumni Awards Bruce Brekke ’70 CEO of Heartland America I’ve always been proud to be an Auggie.To know that Augsburg is proud of me is very special. I meet successful people every day. Most are just like me: ordinary people. Don’t ever let anyone tell you that you can’t, you won’t, you’ll never. Thanks, Augsburg, for the most transformational years of my life. First Decade Award Spirit of Augsburg Awards Joyce Miller ’02, ’05 MAN, ’11 DNP Dale Hanka ’60 Retired Mayo Clinic nurse manager and assistant director, Mayo Clinic research study coordinator, and Augsburg faculty member Former teacher, real estate agent, financial planner, bank president, and title company owner; founder of the Dale and Carolyn Hanka Business Scholarship As nurses, we have lots of scientific knowledge to use in helping care for our patients, but the patients are the experts, not us. We need to walk alongside of them and understand their stories. Otherwise, how will we know what they need for health care? Richard Ekstrand ’72 Founder of Rural Cellular Corporation, now part of Verizon Wireless, and board member for American Solutions for Business The seeds planted in college really helped prepare me: Be a good steward; be humble; encourage others to succeed. These were the foundations for my company’s ideology. Surround yourself with good people, and you and they will be successful. I volunteer because I care and because I can. I always say, “Give until it feels good.” My family, faith, and my experience at Augsburg have all worked together to make my life successful. Dick “Pork Chops” Thompson ’61 Athletic Hall of Fame Congratulations to the alumni who have been inducted into the Augsburg Athletic Hall of Fame: Allan Berg ’68, football/men’s basketball Jennifer Coyle Rhoads ’97, softball John Evans ’82, men’s hockey Jack Grengs ’88, baseball Kurt Habeck ’91, wrestling Anne Richter ’86, volleyball/softball Former teacher, co-founder of Mobile Sports Athletic Camps, president and owner of Playmore Travel You don’t do [the things that earn you awards] because you want to get awards. You do them because that’s what you’ve been taught to do. There are so many people deserving of this award. It’s an honor to receive it. Meg Schmidt Sawyer ’00, women’s hockey/softball John Selstad ’67 Retired senior vice president, National Chronic Care Consortium; lead staff (retired) at the Minnesota Department of Human Services and the Minnesota Board on Aging Augsburg played a formative role for me, but it was the people of Augsburg who influenced me most. We need to carry on that outreach; all 24,000 alumni must carry out the charge to serve our neighbor. Timothy Tousignant ’91, wrestling 2012 Coaching Excellence Awards: For biographies and more information about this year’s award winners, go to augsburg.edu/now Larry Hoff ’66, football Timothy Theisen ’93, men’s basketball homecoming alumni awards Fall 2012 25 weekend and evening 30 college years 26 Augsburg Now BY LAURA SWANSON Weekend and Evening College celebrates 30th anniversary Augsburg’s Weekend and Evening College for three decades has offered nontraditional undergraduate students the opportunity to obtain their bachelor’s degrees through a schedule that accommodates full-time employment, parenthood, and the countless other time commitments present in an adult learner’s life. Augsburg was among the first colleges and universities in its region to offer classes in the evening and weekend format. The weekend and evening program was founded in the spring of 1982 with 69 students and a single major. Today more than 800 adult students are enrolled in 17 degree programs at Augsburg’s Minneapolis location and Rochester campus. Since its founding, Weekend and Evening College has fulfilled a need for adult education in the Twin Cities’ and Rochester’s higher education markets, and it has aligned with Augsburg’s commitment to intentional diversity. “Like with all of the categories of diversity, there are inherent challenges and benefits,” said Lori Peterson, assistant vice president and dean of graduate and professional studies. “We believe that our students come to us with gifts and that we—as an institution—are changed because of their presence. Nontraditional students have brought to us a greater understanding of what it means to value lifelong learning. “We all have many vocations in our lives, and the vocation of a student can come at any time,” she continued. “Nontraditional students allow the College to be deeply aware of what it means to say that years we’re an institution of learning for all.” The College continually has sought to offer students the “highest quality option in the Twin Cities’ adult education market,” according to John Schmit, former director of Weekend and Evening College and current chair of the English Department. At Augsburg, it’s worth noting that adult learners are instructed by full-time faculty members whose expertise is key to students’ exceptional education, Schmit said. Today, as it did when Weekend and Evening College was founded 30 years ago, Augsburg seeks to provide innovative adult education that meets market needs. This year, in advance of the College’s 2014 reaccreditation process with the Higher Learning Commission and in response to changes in federal regulations regarding minimum credit contact hours, Augsburg faculty and staff are exploring possible schedule and format changes that will enable the College to meet the education requirements, and—most importantly—to further the College’s call to serve traditional and nontraditional students. In this edition of Augsburg Now, we invite you to read how an Augsburg education shaped the lives of several Weekend and Evening Auggies. To learn more about Weekend and Evening College and its programs, visit augsburg.edu/weekend. To read how an Augsburg education changed the lives of three other Weekend and Evening College students, go to augsburg.edu/now. Patrick BAYLE ’12 Matt VAN ZANT ’08 Sharon WADE ’08 30th Anniversary Breakfast The Weekend and Evening College hosted an anniversary breakfast in conjunction with Augsburg’s 2012 Homecoming week. Alumni, faculty members, and friends met in the Oren Gateway Center lobby to celebrate three decades of adult education. Guests reconnected with former classmates and met current students. Fall 2012 27 Karen ’05 HARTZ “There was a hole in my life, and I knew I could fill it by going back to school and getting my degree.” years years 28 Augsburg Now Karen Hartz ’05 enrolled in Augsburg’s Weekend and Evening College because earning a college degree was her lifelong goal. “I was missing something,” Hartz said. “I knew that I had excelled in my career, but I wanted to go through the classroom experience. I wanted to meet fellow students, take exams, write papers, and do everything else students do. There was a hole in my life, and I knew I could fill it by going back to school and getting my degree.” Hartz declared a major in communication studies because she believed sharpening her organizational communication skills would positively impact her vocation. For more than 20 years, Hartz has worked as a church administrator—a role, she said, she fell into by “happenstance.” While in her mid-30s, Hartz switched from a career in banking and finance to one where she could serve her church congregation. Her professional career since has led her to work for multiple suburban churches in the Twin Cities metro area, and in 2009 she became the director of operations at Minneapolis’ Plymouth Congregational Church. “I love the challenge of being in an urban setting and having the pulse of city life around me,” Hartz said. “I experience all that’s going on in the neighborhood and in the community.” As with all of her previous church administration roles, her position at Plymouth Congregational Church requires quick thinking and a “ready-for-anything” attitude. Hartz oversees approximately 20 employees on the church’s support staff team, and each of her workdays is unique. “I never know exactly what is going to come up,” she explained. “I could have a tree fall down, or a plumbing leak, or an HR problem, or maybe an issue with donor giving. “I believe that in order to work as a church administrator, as with any ministry position, you need to be called to serve because it can be tough, tough, tough work,” she added. Hartz dedicates more than 40 hours a week to her job, and she juggles numerous volunteer and family commitments that require much of her time. She said that Augsburg’s adult undergraduate program accommodated her schedule as a working adult and supported her educational ambitions. “I went to school thinking that the professors were going to be very strict,” Hartz recalled. But, she soon realized that the first priority of faculty members and academic advisers was to help her succeed at the College. “The people at Augsburg respect adult students and understand that we all have very busy lives with families and jobs,” Hartz said. Hartz wanted to live the college experience firsthand, but she also wanted to finish her degree by the time she turned 50 so that she could move on to new life goals. And she did it—with a month to spare. James ’07 CHAMBERS “I don’t think I would have been able to complete my degrees and work full time to support my family without this program.” years James “Bubba” Chambers ’07 sums up his typical workday in one word—“busy.” And that, he says, is exactly how he wants to spend his time. As an accounts payable supervisor at Ecolab, Chambers works on accounting tasks, corporate banking, tax analysis, and so many other duties he can barely relay the list in a single breath. But, even if he must pause, Chambers undoubtedly will mention that he supervises other staff members. In 2004, Chambers enrolled in Augsburg’s accounting program through the Weekend and Evening College because he needed a bachelor’s degree in order to find a job that matched his skill level and desire for leadership. Chambers served in the U.S. Navy for 20 years and retired from the military as a chief petty officer in 2001. While enlisted, he worked as a course supervisor for an eight-week school house program. The Navy uses the school house model to educate and train servicemen and servicewomen for specialized roles. The training activities that Chambers managed prepared sailors for their first duty assignment by teaching them payroll and travel entitlement procedures. Chambers sought an Augsburg education because he knew that the College was renowned for its business programs and that furthering his education would enable him to find a challenging civilian vocation where he could return to a supervisory role. “It was upsetting to have the qualifications to do a job and know the only thing I was missing was a four-year degree,” Chambers said. At Augsburg, Chambers took two classes each term to maintain full-time enrollment status, a requirement for his G.I. tuition benefit. Some of his military experience fulfilled course requirements at the College, and he finished the accounting degree in 2007. Chambers secured his job at Ecolab a few months before completing the accounting program, and he later returned to Augsburg to obtain his finance degree when the company granted him funds for continued education. “I’m glad that Augsburg offered the Weekend and Evening College,” Chambers said. “I don’t think I would have been able to complete my degrees and work full time to support my family without this program.” Signs of a liberal arts education As an Augsburg student, Chambers ’07 took American Sign Language (ASL) classes to fulfill his modern language core curriculum requirement. Chambers completed accounting and finance degrees through the Weekend and Evening College and now uses his business savvy during each workday. He also applies his second language skills to his new night and weekend gig—serving as the fifth and sixth grade assistant football coach in Eagan, Minn. Chambers communicates with the mother of one of his players using ASL. He said his ability to sign allows the parent and the player to feel more involved in the football program. Fall 2012 29 years It’s uncommon for an incoming student to visit every college and university within a five-state area before determining that Augsburg is the perfect fit. Jennifer Weber ’11 for nearly 10 years worked as an Indian education advisor in the Anoka-Hennepin School District and took high school students on more college tours than she could count. While her job was to encourage her students to obtain bachelor’s degrees, she awaited the opportunity when she, too, could become a college student. That’s why Weber accepted a layoff intended to downsize her employer’s Indian education department. In return, she received financial assistance from a dislocated worker program that would allow her to attend Augsburg’s adult undergraduate program. Weber called the Augsburg American Indian Student Services office upon taking the layoff and within two days was registered for classes. “There was no looking back once I set my mind to it,” Weber said. “I thought, ‘If I’m going to do this, I’m going to do it completely.’ I was a 16year-old mom, and I watched all of my friends go off to college. I wanted to say that I still had that experience; I just had it at a different time.” Weber declared a triple major in emotional/behavioral disabilities, learning disabilities, and American Indian studies, and she participated in an Augsburg Abroad trip to Chiapas, Mexico. She 30 Augsburg Now Jennifer anticipated that her study-abroad experience would change her perspectives on education and American Indian studies by introducing her to a new culture, but she found she was most engaged by discussions surrounding water contamination and the unequal distribution of water resources to native peoples. “An elder asked us, ‘Now that you’ve been here and you’ve seen our communities, are you going to go home and forget about us? Or, are you going to go home and do something?’” Weber felt called to raise water conservation awareness and later learned of the Mother Earth Water Walk through an event held at Augsburg College. The water walk was established by Anishinaabe (Ojibwe) who regard themselves as the caretakers of the Great Lakes. The walk called attention to the need to conserve water as the source of all life. “I left the event that night and everything made sense to me,” Weber said. “This was my chance to do something.” During the water walk, Anishinaabe grandmothers, women, men, and youth from Canada and the United States carried water to Bad River, Wis., from the Pacific Ocean, the Gulf of Mexico, the Atlantic Ocean, and the Hudson Bay. Weber coordinated the southern direction water walk. She found lodging for participants, acquired donations, and joined walkers on their journeys—all the while finishing her coursework at Augsburg in preparation for graduation. Today Weber continues to raise water conservation awareness, and she, with Native educators from across Minnesota, is writing a curriculum that will accompany a Mississippi River water walk WEBER ’11 slated to begin during March 2013. The curriculum will be made accessible online to any school or organization working with youth. “If you want to make an effective change, you must start with children,” Weber said. Since her Augsburg graduation, Weber has resumed her meaningful vocation working with Twin Cities youths. She now serves Cedar-Riverside Community School as a behavior specialist, K-8 special education teacher, and athletic director. By working in the Augsburg neighborhood, Weber serves her alma mater in a unique way. She is in the midst of a collaborative project with Augsburg education department faculty members Elizabeth Madson Ankeny and Dee Vodicka to create hands-on learning opportunities for students in Augsburg’s weekend and evening program. The students learn about positive behavioral interventions through an on-site classroom experience at the Cedar-Riverside Community School. Research on the collaborative project’s success in teaching Augburg students has been overwhelmingly positive, according to Weber. Ankeny, Vodicka, and Weber presented observations from the collaboration at the Teacher Education Division for the Council for Exceptional Children national conference in November in Grand Rapids, Mich. Their presentation was titled, “A Walk from Campus to a Neighborhood School: Preservice Teachers’ Experiences in a Partner School.” It seems Weber’s educational journey with Augsburg College will continue to fork—like a river—at each new opportunity. alumni news FROM THE ALUMNI BOARD PRESIDENT Dear alumni and friends, a save the date s I reconnected with former classmates and teammates during the Homecoming 2012 festivities, I was again reminded how important it is for Auggie alumni to support one another. The entrepreneurial impulse is strong in Auggies, and many of us choose to launch new businesses. Augsburg is committed to helping alumni-owned businesses through the new Auggie Food and Fun Deals program. If you are an alum and a business owner, Auggie Food and Fun Deals can increase the visibility of your business and drive customers to you, provide an attractive benefit for our fellow alumni, and deliver a modest return to the College. Through the Auggie Food and Fun Deals program, you can reach more than 15,000 alumni households—a great pool of potential customers for alumni-owned or managed hospitality, retail, and food-related businesses. The program is free to alumni, and I encourage you to contact Laura Roller, senior director of corporate, government, and foundation relations, at roller@augsburg.edu to learn more. Another program that supports Auggies is the Maroon Pages, a directory of businesses and services offered by Augsburg alumni. Participation in Maroon Pages is free, so please email alumni@augsburg.edu for more information. Save the date for one of my favorite opportunities to connect with fellow Auggies—the Student and Alumni Networking event on Wednesday, February 13, 2013. Please consider volunteering your time that evening to teach students how to network. I was fortunate to meet Dennis Som ’12 at the event last year, and we have continued to stay in contact. The relationship has benefited both of us! CHRIS ASCHER ’81 ALUMNI BOARD PRESIDENT Alumni and student networking event Wednesday, February 13 6-8 p.m. Au gg Chief ie Eag le Spir it Off icer The Augsburg Alumni Board invites you to an evening of networking. Connect with fellow Auggie alumni from a variety of professions and help Augsburg students hone their professional networking skills as they prepare to venture out into the working world. Program details will be available soon. You may register to participate at augsburg.edu/alumni. FIND US ON FACEBOOK AND TWITTER Facebook pages you should “like:” Augsburg College—the official page of the College Augsburg College Alumni Association—all the alumni news you need, and a great way to connect with your Auggie friends Auggie Eagle—be Auggie’s friend Augsburg College Young Alumni & Recent Graduates—connect with alumni who have graduated in the past ten years Follow us on Twitter: @AugsburgCollege @AugsburgAuggies Fall 2012 31 Courtesy photo alumni news World-renowned scientists present to Augsburg alumni in Norway Renewable energy, the green economy, and partnership opportunities between the United States and Norway were topics of a lateSeptember meeting of more than 30 Augsburg College alumni in Norway. The meeting was led by Clayton V. McNeff ’91, vice president of research at SarTec, Ever Cat Fuels LLC, Mcgyan Biodiesel LLC, McNeff Research Consultants, and ZirChrom Separations, and Alf Bjørseth, chairman of Scatec AS, a business development company focused on renewable energy and environmentally friendly advanced materials. The two men, each with extensive credentials in green technologies, met at the 2012 Nobel Peace Prize Forum hosted and coordinated by Augsburg College. McNeff is the cocreator of the innovative Mcgyan biodiesel production process, and Bjørseth is the founder of one of the world’s largest solar energy companies. Augsburg College has partnered with schools in Norway for more than 15 years to welcome international students to its Minneapolis campus. This relationship has resulted in a large alumni population in the country. The September green economy event was part of an ongoing effort to connect and engage Alf Bjørseth, President Paul C. Pribbenow, Clayton McNeff ’91 alumni with the College and to maintain Augsburg’s connection to its Norwegian heritage. Augsburg also is connected to Norway through its work as host of the annual Nobel Peace Prize Forum, held in cooperation with the Humphrey School of Public Affairs at the University of Minnesota. The Forum is supported by the Norwegian Nobel Institute, Augsburg’s sister Norwegian Lutheran colleges, and community partners who share a commitment to education for peace. The 2013 Forum will be held March 8 to 10 on the campuses of Augsburg College and the University of Minnesota, Twin Cities. The keynote speaker is Tawakkol Karman, 2011 Nobel Peace Prize winner, journalist, and human rights activist. Learn more at peaceprizeforum.org. AN AUGSBURG legacy During Homecoming week this fall, Augsburg Legacy students received an “Auggie Family” photo frame from President Pribbenow and Auggie Eagle. Legacy students are those whose grandparents, parents, or siblings are Augsburg graduates or current students and students who are children or spouses of ELCA pastors. Congratulations, Legacy students, and thank you for carrying on the Auggie family tradition! If a member of your family would like information about becoming an Auggie, contact the Office of Admissions at 612-330-1001. 32 Augsburg Now alumni tour Join Augsburg College President Paul C. Pribbenow and fellow alumni and friends on this African tour through South Africa and Namibia’s shared political past and the popular tourist attractions and landmarks this history has created. Learn first-hand about this historic region by visiting Cape Point where the Dutch Conquerors landed and built a lighthouse, Table Mountain, and Robben Island where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned. Tour the former black and coloured townships and hear from a cross-section of southern African society. Discover how the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Namibia played a significant role in opposition to apartheid and was part of the Namibian independence struggle. This trip is offered in partnership between the Augsburg College Alumni Association and Center for Global Education (CGE) at Augsburg College. For more than 25 years, CGE has provided cross-cultural educational opportunities that foster critical analysis of local and global conditions so that personal and systemic change takes place, leading to a more just and sustainable world. To request more details about the trip, call 612-330-1085 or email alumni@augsburg.edu. Courtesy photo The Landmarks of South Africa and Namibia August 11-24, 2013 @ auggies THE TWINS GAME Auggies Jason Bryan-Wegner ’01, Erica Bryan-Wegner ’01, Sarah Grans ’01, and Skylar Hanson ’01 represented Augsburg College and Thrivent at the Thrivent Financial for Lutherans® Night at the Twins on July 30. Janet Paone ’83 (not pictured) threw out the first pitch. To watch the Augsburg video that was displayed on the big screen at Target Field before the game, go to augsburg.edu/now. Winter Eye-Opener Breakfast features Mike Good ’71 THURSDAY, JANUARY 24, 2013 Come hear from outgoing Augsburg College Board of Regents Chair, Mike Good ’71, CEO of Sotheby’s International Realty. As board chair, Good provided four years of outstanding leadership to the College. He is now taking on the critical role of national campaign chair for the Center for Science, Business, and Religion. Learn how Good’s undergraduate experience at Augsburg equipped him to rise to the rank of CEO and why he continues to remain so engaged with his alma mater. During his tenure at Sotheby’s, Good has been instrumental in attracting more than 150 quality real estate firms, representing nearly 500 offices from around the world, to join the Sotheby's network. Under Good’s leadership, Sotheby’s has won Franchise Business Review’s Best in Category for Real Estate Franchisee Satisfaction award for the past three years. It was also rated the most prestigious real estate company by high-net worth consumers in the 2008 Luxury Brand Status Index survey, and in 2009 was ranked second on Franchise Times’ Fast 55 list. Augsburg’s Eye-Opener Breakfast series provides an opportunity for alumni and friends to network and learn about current issues in our community. The series is sponsored by Thrivent Financial for Lutherans® Central Minnesota Regional Financial Office. Cost is $5 per person, which includes breakfast and presentation. RSVP at augsburg.edu/alumni. Save the date for the spring Eye-Opener Breakfast, Thursday, May 9, 2013. Fall 2012 33 HOMECOMING 2012 REUNION CLASSES SILVER AUGGIES—CLASS OF 1961 AND EARLIER First Row [L to R]: Jeroy Carlson ’48, Eunice (Nystuen) Sortland, Grace (Forss) Herr ’57, Ruth Aaskov ’53, Charlotte (Kleven) Rimmereid ’52, Dora (Frojen) Quanbeck ’49; Second Row [L to R]: Mert Strommen ’42, Harris Lee ’57, Farolyn (Johnson) Gehring ’56, Inez (Olson) Schwarzkopf ’59, Leroy Nyhus ’52, Arthur Rimmereid ’53, Louise Jones ’56, D. Josh Nelson ’57, Philip Quanbeck Sr. ’50; Third Row [L to R]: Grace (Kemmer) Sulerud ’58, Leola (Dyrud) Furman ’61, Shelby (Gimse) Andress ’56; Fourth Row [L to R}: Allan Sortland ’53, Virg Gehring ’57, Ainy Carlson, Paul Almquist ’59, Millie Nelson ’52, Dale Hanka ’60, Richard Thorud ’56, Larry Gallagher ’61, Dave Hanka ’60, Dick “Pork Chops” Thompson ’61, Milt Kleven ’46, Jerry Peterson ’61 50-YEAR REUNION—CLASS OF 1962 First Row [L to R]: Judy (Lerstad) Hill, Marjorie (Engevik) Espe, Maryann (Sorensen) Urban, Bonnie Pehrson, Jennelle (Johnson) Cunning, Mercia (Anderson) Fredrick, Joyce (Gustafson) Hauge, Bunny (Beglinger) Larson, Barbara (Anderson) Stamp; Second Row [L to R]: Lois (Knutson) Larson, Kathy (Aaker) Casperson, Eugene Strand, David Fredrick, Sally (Stuber) Cook, Marilyn (Olson) Gronner, Ann (Ring) Odegaard, Kay (Hanenburg) Madson; Third Row [L to R]: Loiell Dyrud, Ken Erickson, Paul Grover, John W. Christensen, Eunice (Kyllo) Roberts, Julia (Ose) Grose, Rose Marie (Nordin) Anderson; Fourth Row [L to R]: Jack Osberg, Dean Larson, Paul Gunderson, Elaine (Pedersen) Gunderson 34 Augsburg Now 40-YEAR REUNION—CLASS OF 1972 1. Linda (Engstrom) Akenson 2. Ron R. Johnson 3. Lorraine (Wietzke) Aaland 4. Sharon Carlson 5. Rachel Iverson 6. Ken Wistrom 7. Sue Maahs 8. Judy (Bacon) Haugo 9. Jennifer (Klema) Cuthbertson 10. Sue (Didrikson) Lisell 11. Karen Sandness 12. Jill Steele 13. Susan (Lindbloom) Johnson 14. Larry Laingen 15. Jim Wolslegel 16. Marilyn (Moxness) Hall 17. Ginny (Dahlen) Baali 18. Gail (Thacker) Ofstehage 19. Judy (Mendenhall) Trimble 20. Nancy (Olson) Hrdlicka 21. Sue Anderson 22. Jim Agre 23. George Dahlman 24. Joe Stork 25. Rob Engelson 26. Kathy (Langemo) Dugdale 27. Jackie (Wolhart) Harvestine 28. Carol (Pederson) Jorgenson 29. Tom Fischer 30. Tom Snell 31. Mary Kay (Johnson) Stensvaag 32. Saul Stensvaag 33. Michelle (Karkhoff) Christianson 34. Bernelle (Mattson) Hansen 35. Kathy (Seim) Tilderquist 36. Cheryl (Lindroos) Martin 37. Cindy (Barr) Karels 38. Sandie (Youngquist) Kidder 39. Kristin (Parbst) Rohde 40. Kristine Olson 41. David Christianson 42. Marius Anaházy 43. Jonathan Nye 44. Steve Frantz 45. Darla Frantz 46. Jan (Christensen) Tift 47. Linda (Truax) Johnson 48. Tom Howe 49. Burton Haugen 50. Rick Ekstrand 51. Tom Haas 2013 REUNION CLASSES Silver Auggies—Class of 1962 and earlier Interested in volunteering? 50-Year Reunion—Class of 1963 If you would like to help make your reunion a success, contact the Office of Alumni and Constituent Relations at 612-330-1085 or alumni@augsburg.edu. Save the date for Homecoming 2013: September 23 to 28. 40-Year Reunion—Class of 1973 30-Year Reunion—Class of 1983 25-Year Reunion—Class of 1988 10-Year Reunion—Class of 2003 Fall 2012 35 Courtesy photo Courtesy photo 30-YEAR REUNION—CLASS OF 1982 25-YEAR REUNION—CLASS OF 1987 [L to R]: Kari (Eklund) Logan, Gail (Sathre) Kaderlik, Lori LaBelle Bartz, Tia (Opsahl) Schimek, Lori Moline, Brad Lehto, Tamara Cowan, Beth Anderson, Heidi (Smith) Labyad, Kaia Knutson Front Row [L to R]: Tammy Rider, Kathy (Trost) Amos, Anne (Skurdalsvold) Johnson; Second Row [L to R]: Cheryl (Witsoe) Dudley, Angela (Schilling) Aitken; Back Row [L to R]: Charles Jorenby, Chris Hahn, Doug Johnson Courtesy photo auggie reunions 10-YEAR REUNION—CLASS OF 2002 Members of the Class of 2002 [pictured above] gathered to celebrate and reconnect during Homecoming week. The 10-year reunion committee includes Ben Carlson, Heather (Schwartz) Cmiel, Jackie (Heyda) Eyberg, Michael Fasching, Britt Gilbertson, Nick Slack, Robert Wagner, and Brooke (Stoeckel) Whaylen. 36 Augsburg Now alumni class notes 54Corinne, coauthored a book 72elected president of the staff qualification manager at Seagate Technology. from Princeton Theological Seminary on May 19. Minnesota Construction Association in 2012. She is the first woman to serve in this position. 99James Johnson, and their 11at St. Paul Preparatory, was 76 daughter, Stella (3), welcomed son and brother Adrian James on January 4. one of five teachers selected from across the United States to participate in an exchange program through World Savvy and the U.S. State Department. Woolever will travel to Bangladesh to study the environmental, social, economic, and political impacts of climate change and to observe communities that have been affected by climate change. Teachers and students will spend a month living with a host family and participating in research and service projects with local Bangladeshi students. Herb Chilstrom and his wife, of daily inspirational reflections titled Every Morning New. 63Wisconsin Press released Alana Sunness Griffith was In August, the University of Mau Mau’s Children: The Making of Kenya’s Postcolonial Elite by David P. Sandgren. In the book, Sandgren reconnects with former students he taught in a Kenyan school for boys beginning in 1963. Sandgren is a professor of history at Concordia College in Moorhead, Minn. Carol Ann (Nelson) Zwernik was honored in February with the Donald A. Vetter Educational Service Award. The award recognizes extraordinary achievements and contributions to Lutheran education and commitment to the values of the Evangelical Lutheran Education Association. Poet Mary (Belardi) Erickson’s second chapbook, While You Blue-Step, was released in May by Aldrich Publishing. 94enjoying her fifth year of Patricia (Sotanski) Pardun is independent practice in Stillwater, Minn., as a licensed marriage and family therapist and licensed alcohol and drug counselor. She also welcomed her first grandchild, William Joseph McDearmon, on July 21, 2010. 96ect management professional Angela Zurn, her husband, 00Russell Brown were married Sara (Quigley) Brown and June 18, 2011, in Minneapolis. Sara is an ordained and rostered minister in the ELCA, and Russell works in IT for Wells Fargo. 01and her husband, Aaron, welElizabeth Meskan Neiderhiser comed daughter Camille Jane in June. Camille is the third child for the couple. Ryan Carlson achieved proj- (PMP) certification and in September was named a senior 08 Michael John Gyura of Rochester received a Master of Divinity and a Master of Arts Kate Woolever, an art teacher graduate programs Craig and Tina Meeker Mattson ’07 MBA welcomed daughter Audrey Anne on June 3. auggie SNAPSHOTS 73Holmes Spun 2, presented at Holmes Theatre in Detroit Corrine Ruth (Froelich) Frank acted, sang, and danced in Lakes, Minn., in May. 62brated her 50th anniverJudy Lerstad Hill cele- 38College Commencement cer- 38Thompson ’40 grew up emony, Gretha (Halvorson) Loken and her daughter Mary (Loken) Veiseth ’70 celebrated the graduation of Amy Aylsworth ’12, Loken’s granddaughter and Veiseth’s daughter. The three generations of Auggies are pictured here. together in Dawson, Minn., and were college roommates for four years at Augsburg. They had not seen each other for 30 years, so Thompson’s daughter drove him all the way from Salt Lake City, Utah, to visit Nelson in Inver Grove Heights, Minn. At the May 2012 Augsburg Edor Nelson and Roger sary as Miss Minnesota 1962. Crowned the evening before her Augsburg graduation, Hill was the first Auggie to win the competition. In 2011, Hill was reunited with her former Augsburg woodwinds teacher, Ruben Haugen (pictured here). Hill credits Haugen for developing her talent on saxophone that earned her a scholarship at the Miss America Pageant. Fall 2012 37 auggie SNAPSHOTS 98Jenell (Torma) Agrimson Erick Agrimson and 95Severson were married July 7. Tracy (Anderson) Severson and Scott ’00 welcomed their first child, Anders, on June 12. Erick works at St. Catherine University as assistant professor of physics and is a Minnesota Space Grant affiliate director. Jenell works at East Suburban Resources as a job coach. 00MSW, was named the Heidi Kammer Jensen, 99wife, Tracy (Holloway) Thane Drier and his Drier, welcomed daughter Morgan Rae on July 29. Morgan joins brothers Tristan and Caden. director of Recovery Resource Center (RRC), a division of RESOURCE in Minneapolis. 97his wife, Mary Brent Grier and Ellen, welcomed daughter Lily Anne on May 17. 01Espinoza welcomed son Simon on Stephanie Quick-Espinoza and Jorge 00husband, Eric Darwitz, welcomed twins Jodie Marie (Henriksen) Darwitz and November 11, 2011. Dino Patrick and Delanie Marie on February 11. Jodie is a peer coach in the West St. PaulMendota Heights-Eagan (Minn.) school district. 05Burgess, welcomed daughter Tenley Kyla (Rice) Burgess and husband, J.R. Renee on November 2, 2011. Burgess is a school counselor in St. Cloud, Minn. 07graduated from Jeni Strom Northwestern Health Sciences University with a Doctor of Chiropractic degree in November 2010. She opened a chiropractic practice in Roseville in February. She and Nathan Massa were married October 6. 38 Augsburg Now 08and husband, Chris Megan (Carlson) Lagasse 08Pictured are [L to R] Sara Horishnyk ’08, Jackie Nicky Cronin was married on June 16 to Kyle Bohm. Bohm (sister of groom), Nicky Bohm, Kyle Bohm, Pam Breadman (sister of the bride), and Annika Spargo ’09. Nicky is a part-time teacher at West Metro Learning Connections and a program coordinator at the Mentor Network/REM Ramsey. Kyle is an IT support tech for Minneapolis Public Schools. Lagasse, welcomed son Micah Steven on May 22. His parents hope he will be a fourth generation Auggie following his mother, Micah’s grandfather Steven Carlson ’73, and his great-grandfather Fabian Carlson ’49. Send us your news and photos Tell us about the news in your life, your new job, move, marriage, and births. Don’t forget to send photos! (Digital photos must be at least 300 dpi or a 1MB file.) For news of a death, printed notice is required, e.g., an obituary, funeral notice, or program from a memorial service. Send your news items, photos, or change of address by mail to: Augsburg Now Class Notes, Augsburg College, CB 146, 2211 Riverside Ave., Minneapolis, MN 55454, or email alumni@augsburg.edu. You can also submit news at augsburg.edu/alumni. ______________________________________________________ Full name ______________________________________________________ Maiden name ______________________________________________________ Class year or last year attended ______________________________________________________ Street address ______________________________________________________ City, State, ZIP code Is this a new address? q Yes q No ______________________________________________________ Home telephone ______________________________________________________ Email Okay to publish your email address? q Yes q No ______________________________________________________ Employer ______________________________________________________ Position In memoriam ______________________________________________________ Work telephone Vincent Kenstad ’33, San Diego, Calif., age 102, on June 3. Wayne A. Peterson ’50, Cambridge, Minn., age 84, on August 21. Doris C. Hanson-Currens ’40, Minneapolis, age 96, on August 14. Beverly Lentz ’55, Bird Island, Minn., age 78, on April 29. Edna Ericksen ’42, Cottonwood, Tex., age 92, on June 5. Ruth N. (Framstad) Steen ’43, Eden Prairie, Minn., age 91, on June 9. David H. Larson ’44, Great Falls, Mont., age 89, on January 26. Rev. John N. Parbst ’45, Bloomington, Minn., age 88, on August 4. Dr. Ernest Thorsgard ’49, Thief River Falls, Minn., age 88, on June 7. Robert Moylan ’56, Spokane, Wash., age 78, on July 15. Marcia (Myring) Carlson ’60, Bloomington, Minn., age 74, on January 30. Shelly M. (Forslund) Ulven ’06, Apple Valley, Minn., age 34, on July 7. Is spouse also a graduate of Augsburg College? q Yes q No If yes, class year __________________________________________ ______________________________________________________ Spouse’s name ______________________________________________________ Maiden name Your news: ______________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________ Dorii Gbolo ’08, Minneapolis, age 56, on June 30. ______________________________________________________ Joseph R. Beckfeld ’13, Minneapolis, age 36, on June 11. ______________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________ q I know a student who is interested in attending Augsburg. Fall 2012 39 Master of Arts in Leadership celebrates history with a look toward the future The Master of Arts in Leadership (MAL) program celebrated its 25th anniversary in late September. The milestone was an opportunity to acknowledge the healthy and long success of the program and to look toward the future of the College’s graduate studies as a whole. The success of the MAL program comes from the vision of its early leaders and its alignment with Augsburg’s mission, said MAL director Alan Tuchtenhagen. “It seems natural,” he said, “that one of Augsburg’s first graduate programs was in leadership because leadership is central to who and what defines Auggies.” Norma Noonan, Augsburg professor of political science, directed the program for 18 years and stepped down from that role last spring. About Noonan, Tuchtenhagen said, “Norma played a critical role in establishing the MAL program’s identity and strength, making it a cornerstone graduate program for Augsburg.” Throughout the years, the program has grown and changed. Going forward, and thanks to a formal program assessment done in partnership with MAL faculty, Augsburg can ensure that the program continues to be timely and relevant. During the assessment, Tuchtenhagen worked with Andy Aoki, professor of political science; Tom Morgan, executive director of the Center for Faith and Learning; Diane Pike, professor of sociology; and Velma Lashbrook, director of the Center for Teaching and Learning and assistant professor of leadership studies. Other faculty and alumni also were engaged in the review. The group explored educational outcomes of the program and identified ways to ensure that the curriculum matches current and future students’ needs. Some recommendations from the group include refreshing the MAL model to reflect current issues in leadership and integrating community engagement into the curricu- 40 Augsburg Now MAL director Alan Tuchtenhagen speaks at the MAL 25th anniversary celebration on September 26. lum. Additionally, the group suggested streamlining the curriculum and program completion options and placing a greater emphasis on development of graduatelevel writing and research skills. The MAL program will continue to offer a classic classroom-based format and an integrated hybrid format that combines faceto-face and online learning. In addition, the College now pairs the Master of Business Administration (MBA) program with the MAL to form a dual degree that, Tuchtenhagen said, “integrates the career focus of the MBA with the developmental nature of the MAL.” These changes to the MAL program will help maintain the strength of the graduate studies program at Augsburg. “Graduate studies offers one of the highest areas of growth potential for Augsburg,” said Lori Peterson, assistant vice president and dean of graduate and professional studies. “We are excited to have the strong foundation in the MAL program and to see it and other graduate programs continue to evolve to meet the needs of learners in our community.” WENDI WHEELER ’06 at Augsburg offers nine graduate programs with classes meeting primarily in the evenings and on weekends: Doctor of Nursing Practice Master of Arts in Education Master of Arts in Leadership Master of Arts in Nursing Master of Business Administration Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing BEGINNING SUMMER 2013 Master of Music Therapy BEGINNING SUMMER 2013 Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies FULL-TIME DAY PROGRAM Master of Social Work Dual degree programs: MBA/MAL MBA/MSW MSW/MA Theology For more information about graduate studies at Augsburg, go to augsburg.edu/grad. notes from President Pribbenow Stewardship of place and people t he Augsburg College mission statement says that Augsburg “educates students to be informed citizens, thoughtful stewards, critical thinkers, and responsible leaders.” These aspirations for our students require that all of us who are part of the Augsburg community consider how we model in our lives and work the core values embodied in these aspirations. In other words, we need to live what we teach! This issue of Augsburg Now offers several examples of how we are seeking as a college community to live as thoughtful stewards. You’ve read in past issues of this magazine the remarkable progress we have made as an institution in our commitment to environmental stewardship—composting leftover food from the cafeteria, community gardens on campus, new biodiesel production methods, and a commitment to carbon neutrality by 2019. All important work, but stewardship is a rich concept and extends to our care for all of the gifts we have been given as a community. I am particularly struck by how our College has explored ways in which we care for our physical location and facilities. The 2010 Campus Space and Master Plan is not simply a map to future facilities; it is a statement of values around stewardship of the land and buildings we occupy and the need for us to be constantly vigilant about the opportunities to renew, reuse, and extend the life of our spaces and buildings. In addition, the plan points to our commitment to stewarding relationships with our neighbors, building facilities and designing landscapes that welcome our neighbors to campus rather than keep them away. Stewardship is also about people—and as I was reminded again this year at our Homecoming celebrations, Augsburg is all about people. The upcoming celebration of the 40th anniversary of Title IX—the landmark federal legislation that seeks to ensure equity for women and men in intercollegiate athletics—is an example of what it means to be good stewards of our people. For years and years, women students at Augsburg participated in athlet- Vice President of Marketing and Communication Rebecca John rjohn@augsburg.edu Creative Associate-Editorial Wendi Wheeler ’06 wheelerw@augsburg.edu Integrated Communication Specialist Laura Swanson swansonl@augsburg.edu Creative Director Kathy Rumpza ’05 MAL rumpza@augsburg.edu Senior Creative Associate-Design Jen Nagorski ’08 nagorski@augsburg.edu Photographer Stephen Geffre geffre@augsburg.edu Director of News and Media Services Stephanie Weiss weisss@augsburg.edu Production Manager/Now Online ics without the support and recognition enjoyed by their male counterparts. A couple of years ago, we honored those unheralded women Auggies with the athletic letters they never received while on campus. Now, we lift up our enduring commitment to opportunities for all Auggie student-athletes. Our recent news about establishing the first intercollegiate women’s lacrosse program in Minnesota is just one example of how we steward the gifts of people—students, faculty, staff, alumni, parents, and friends who make Augsburg strong! In 1931, the renowned 20th-century theologian Reinhold Niebuhr wrote in The Christian Century an essay with the provocative title, “Is Stewardship Ethical?” His indictment of Christians for the ways in which they had turned stewardship into random programs of fundraising and voluntarism stands as a relevant challenge to all of us. We are called to be thoughtful stewards. Stewardship is a way of life. At Augsburg, we are working hard to live what we teach. Yours in Augsburg, Mark Chamberlain chamberm@augsburg.edu Senior Director of Alumni and Constituent Relations Kim Stone stonek@augsburg.edu augsburg.edu Augsburg Now is published by Augsburg College 2211 Riverside Ave. Minneapolis, MN 55454 Opinions expressed in Augsburg Now do not necessarily reflect official College policy. ISSN 1058-1545 Send address corrections to: Advancement Services CB 142 Augsburg College 2211 Riverside Ave. Minneapolis, MN 55454 langemo@augsburg.edu Email: now@augsburg.edu PAUL C. PRIBBENOW, PRESIDENT Members of the Maroon & Silver Society lead by example with monthly gifts of $84 or more, or annual gifts of $1,000 or more to The Augsburg Fund. These unrestricted gifts to The Augsburg Fund allow the College to award more financial aid, employ high-quality faculty and staff, offer a challenging and thought-provoking academic curriculum, and provide support to our students so that they can become the people they are called to be. To learn more about the Maroon & Silver Society, contact the Office of Annual Giving at 612-330-1652 or giving@augsburg.edu. augsburg.edu/giving AUGSBURG NOW Opening Convocation At this year’s opening convocation, Augsburg College welcomed nearly 400 new first-year students and 160 transfer students to campus. The College also added 437 new students in adult undergraduate and graduate programs in Minneapolis and Rochester, Minn., this fall. Higher education in the 21st century 30 years of Weekend and Evening College Stewardship of space MAL celebrates 25 years 40 years of women’s athletics and Title IX Auggie Days 2012 living OUR calling FALL 2012 | VOL. 75, NO. 1 inside 2211 Riverside Avenue Minneapolis, MN 55454 Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Twin Cities, MN Permit No. 2031
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Title: Augsburg Now Spring 2014: We Are Called To Inspire Peace
Collection: Alumni Magazine Collection
Search Result: Finding meaning in work Auggies on the job The future of history CSBR gains momentum Auggies on the soccer field WE ARE CALLED TO INSPIRE PEACE SPRING 2014 | VOL. 76, NO. 2 INSIDE AUGSBURG NOW Vice President of Marketing and Communication Rebecca John ’13 MBA rjohn@augsburg.edu Dire...
Show more Finding meaning in work Auggies on the job The future of history CSBR gains momentum Auggies on the soccer field WE ARE CALLED TO INSPIRE PEACE SPRING 2014 | VOL. 76, NO. 2 INSIDE AUGSBURG NOW Vice President of Marketing and Communication Rebecca John ’13 MBA rjohn@augsburg.edu Director of Marketing Communication Kathy Rumpza ’05 MAL rumpza@augsburg.edu NOTES FROM PRESIDENT PRIBBENOW Reflective practice As I write, I am on my way back to Minneapolis after spending meaningful time at our Center for Global Education campus in Cuernavaca, Mexico, and my mind and heart are full with what I learned and experienced alongside our students. For more than 30 years, students who travel to our campus in Mexico have been offered remarkable experiences engaging local residents in their various realities. In my short stay, I saw this work on the ground as I was able to visit local host families who share their homes with our students for several weeks; an indigenous village, where our students face the realities of poverty and personal struggle; and a clothing assembly plant, made possible by the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), creating opportunities for economic progress and at the same time challenging our sense of economic well-being for workers. This is education “off the main road,” which I first described in 2011 (see augsburg. edu/now/archives/summer-2011), an education that promotes what Massachusetts Institute of Technology professor Donald Schön called “reflective practice,” the dynamic relationship between learning and experience that is at the heart of Augsburg’s academic mission. This vision of education challenges us to see that our various experiences are inextricably linked with our reflection and learning. When we see poverty, what questions do we ask, what do we feel, what will we do? When we experience injustice, what are the causes and what options are available for our response? When we are jarred out of our normal perspectives, what will we see and do? This integrated link between experience and learning defines reflective practice. Director of News and Media Services Stephanie Weiss weisss@augsburg.edu Creative Associate This issue of Augsburg Now illustrates in myriad ways how this commitment to reflective practice is at the heart of an Augsburg education. The interviews with alumni in “Finding meaning in work” advise students to be able to reflect upon and explain their choices (in college activities, academic major, and career moves) as they equip themselves for the workplace. The story on Augsburg’s women’s soccer team tells how the student-athletes chose to go to Nicaragua to combine community engagement and learning with their soccer games. They partnered with the Center for Global Education (perhaps the first Auggie team to do so), and had the full “off the main road” educational experience. And on and on. In the stories that follow, we celebrate our relationships with the Mdewakanton Sioux community, with some of the leading business people in the Twin Cities, with our Somali neighbors in Cedar-Riverside, and even with His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, who came to campus as part of the 26th annual Nobel Peace Prize Forum. These stories powerfully illustrate Augsburg’s diversity, hospitality, and embrace of “the other”—all of which point to a college community dedicated to equipping our students for lives of meaning and purpose in the world. Reflection and practice—small to our students and big for the world. Our vision for Augsburg in the 21st century. We welcome your support and engagement in the important work before us. Denielle Johnson ’11 johnsod@augsburg.edu Integrated Communication Specialist Laura Swanson swansonl@augsburg.edu Marketing Copywriter Christina Haller haller@augsburg.edu Photographer Stephen Geffre geffre@augsburg.edu Production Manager/Now Online Mark Chamberlain chamberm@augsburg.edu Assistant Vice President of Advancement Kim Stone stonek@augsburg.edu Graphic Design Jen Nagorski ’08 augsburg.edu Augsburg Now is published by Augsburg College 2211 Riverside Ave. Minneapolis, MN 55454 Opinions expressed in Augsburg Now do not necessarily reflect official College policy. Faithfully yours, ISSN 1058-1545 PAUL C. PRIBBENOW, PRESIDENT Send address corrections to: Advancement Services, CB 142 Augsburg College 2211 Riverside Ave. Minneapolis, MN 55454 langemo@augsburg.edu Email: now@augsburg.edu Hennepin County Library Special Collections Archive photo 7 24 11 21 spring 2014 AUGSBURG NOW Features 07 11 21 32 Finding meaning in work BY STEPHANIE WEISS The future of history BY REBECCA JOHN ’13 MBA 2014 Nobel Peace Prize Forum BY LAURA SWANSON Losar: Celebration of Tibetan New Year Departments inside front cover Notes from President Pribbenow 02 Around the Quad 16 My Auggie experience 18 It takes an Auggie 19 Auggie voices 24 Auggies on the field 26 Alumni news 16 On the cover His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama blessed Augsburg College student Tenzin Yeshi Paichang ’16 during a keynote event at this year’s Nobel Peace Prize Forum (NPPF), held March 1 and 7-9 in Minneapolis. When he was two years old, Paichang was cast as the Dalai Lama in Martin Scorsese’s movie, Kundun. At the NPPF, Paichang added a new role to his résumé—that of the Dalai Lama’s student attaché. Read more about the NPPF on page 21. All photos by Stephen Geffre unless otherwise indicated. 19 29 Alumni class notes 31 In memoriam Designed by Laura Humes AROUND THE QUAD AUGSBURG IS A TOP PRODUCER OF U.S. FULBRIGHT STUDENTS This past fall, the U.S. Department of State recognized Augsburg College for being among the top colleges and universities for producing Fulbright students. The College, ranked No. 11 among master’s institutions, has had 17 Fulbright students since 2007. The Chronicle of Higher Education also recognized the College in 2010-11 for being a top producer of Fulbrights. Augsburg earns perfect score Two Auggies were recognized for outstanding work as filmmakers at the 2013 Student Film Festival hosted in November by the Associated Colleges of the Twin Cities (ACTC) at the Main Theatre in Minneapolis. • Chessdogs, an experimental film by Nial Nelson-Hopkins ’14, won the award for Best Experiential Film. Watch the film at chessdogs.com. • Black Sun, Red Sky by J.C. Calubayan ’14 won the Best Dramatic Narrative award. See the film at vimeo.com/71923072. on Campus Pride Index Augsburg College recently scored a perfect 5 out of 5 stars on Campus Pride’s LGBT-Friendly Campus Climate Index. This tool assesses colleges and universities across the United States on a number of variables, including policy inclusion, housing, campus safety, counseling, support and institutional commitment, academic life, student life, and recruitment and retention. Campuses that receive the highest score are considered “leader(s) for LGBT-inclusive policies, programs, and practices.” More than 150 people attended the film fest screenings. The Student Film Festival celebrates ACTC students’ digital storytelling. More than 160 students from throughout the Twin Cities’ metro area participated in Augsburg’s third Native American Youth Day held in January. The students from grades 6-12 learned how post-secondary education can influence their futures, got a feel for what college is like, and were able to interact with current American Indian college students. 2 Augsburg Now Courtesy photo Native American YOUTH DAY Shakopee Mdewakanton scholarship The Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community (SMSC) recently contributed $250,000 to increase endowed scholarships for American Indian students at Augsburg College. This grant funding will be added to the existing SMSC endowment fund, which was established in the mid-1990s. The scholarship is utilized to recruit and retain talented American Indian students who are enrolled or are eligible for enrollment in a federally recognized tribe or are identified as American Indian by the Indian Education Act. Bonnie Wallace “On behalf of all those involved with our request to the SMSC, we are absolutely thrilled and extremely appreciative of this most generous gift. The SMSC, once again, serves as a shining example of its ongoing commitment in the area of ‘cradle to career’ educational opportunities in our native communities, and in our case, [of providing] scholarship support to American Indian students seeking degree completion at Augsburg College,” said Bonnie Wallace, enrolled member of the Fond du Lac Band of Lake Superior Chippewa and member of the Augsburg Board of Regents. IME Becas scholarships from Mexican consulate Augsburg College was one of seven Minnesota colleges and universities to receive a grant from Consul Alberto Fierro Garza, Consulate of Mexico in St. Paul. Garza presented grants from the Instituto de los Mexicanos en el Exterior (IME—Institute for Mexicans Abroad) Fellowship Program to colleges and universities in Minnesota to benefit Mexican or Mexican-American students. The presentation took place during a ceremony hosted by Minnesota State Colleges and Universities (MnSCU) following the October meeting of the Board of Trustees. A total of $55,000 in scholarships was presented at the ceremony, placing Minnesota among the top states nationally for the amount received from this competitive grant. The colleges and universities will match the awards for a total impact of $110,000. THE CEDAR, AUGSBURG RECEIVE GRANT A grant awarded to The Cedar Cultural Center and Augsburg College will support a program to build cross-cultural awareness, knowledge, and understanding of Somali culture through music. One of only six grants of its type in the nation, the $200,000 award was made as part of the highly competitive Building Bridges: Campus Community Engagement grant by the Association of Performing Arts Presenters funded by the Doris Duke Charitable Foundation and the Doris Duke Foundation for Islamic Art. The grant will be used to launch a two-year project titled Midnimo: Music for Unity, Campus, and Community. Through Midnimo, the Somali word for “unity,” Augsburg students, Cedar-Riverside residents, and the general public will engage in a series of educational and experiential events focused on Somali music. Spring 2014 3 AROUND THE QUAD SPORTS EXTRAVAGANZA SABO CENTER for Citizenship and 2013 Learning The November Martin Olav Sabo Symposium focused on creating policy change and featured three panelists who spoke about their experience working on climate change, the Minnesota Dream Act, and marriage equality. Speakers included Kate Knuth, Boreas Leadership Program Coordinator at the University of Minnesota’s Institute on the Environment and a citizen member of the Minnesota Environmental Quality Board; Juventino Meza ’11, a founding member of NAVIGATE, a network of immigrant youth and allies seeking to widen the path to higher education for young people; and Sen. Scott Dibble, a third-term state senator. Sports Extravaganza was founded in 1999 and continues to be an annual College tradition because of the benefits it provides for Twin Cities area children, and Augsburg health and physical education (HPE) and exercise science students. In mid-November, more than 200 Minnesota students in grades 3-6 took part in the event, in which participants played adapted games and completed physical education activities. The event is an opportunity for Augsburg students to problem solve, use encouraging messages and motivation techniques, and increase their adeptness at instructing children with disibilities. Kate Knuth Juventino Meza ’11 Sen. Scott Dibble STROMMEN SPEAKERS SERIES The Clair and Gladys Strommen Executive Speakers Series at Augsburg College, which brings local business leaders to campus to share insights and expertise, kicked off in November with John Taft, CEO at RBC Wealth Management, and his presentation on “Stewardship: Lessons Learned from the Lost Culture of Wall Street.” He made a compelling argument that Wall Street leaders and institutions experienced a failure to fulfill their stewardship responsibilities by putting their own interests before the interests of the constituencies they serve. John Taft The series continued in February with Dave St. Peter, president of the Minnesota Twins. St. Peter, who joined the Twins in 1990 and was named president in 2002, talked about the baseball industry in his presentation, “The Business of Baseball.” St. Peter oversees the Twins’ day-to-day operations, strategic planning, and interaction with Major League Baseball. 4 Augsburg Now Dave St. Peter CONVOCATION SERIES 2013-14 HEAD COACH DENNIS BARKER RETIRES First held in 1990, the Augsburg College Convocation Series is an annual speaker series that incorporates longstanding endowed and special programs. This winter, the 26th Annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Convocation honored one of the United States’ visionary civil rights leaders with song. T. Mychael Rambo and Brian Grandison hosted the event, “Music for Martin.” In February, the Batalden Seminar in Applied Ethics featured Sister Peggy O’Neill, president and director of Centro Arte para la Paz in Suchitoto, El Salvador. Her presentation was titled, “Awakening to the Reality of a Crucified World: Discovering What It Means to Be Human.” Augsburg College men’s and women’s track and field and cross-country head coach Dennis Barker resigned his coaching positions after the fall season. Barker had served as coach for both sports for the past 20 seasons. Barker coached 59 Minnesota Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (MIAC) event champions and 147 All-MIAC and 126 All-MIAC Honorable Mention honorees, and his teams earned several U.S. Track and Field and Cross Country Coaches Association Team Academic Awards, among others. Photo by Caleb Williams The Sverdrup Visiting Scientist Lecture in April featured Bonnie L. Bassler, professor in molecular biology at Princeton University, whose presentations included “Tiny Conspiracies: Cell-to-Cell Communication in Bacteria” and “Manipulating Quorum Sensing to Control Bacterial Pathogenicity.” The annual Sverdrup Visiting Scientist Lecture series brings renowned scientists to campus to share their expertise with the Augsburg community, the College’s aspiring scientists, and members of the larger scientific community. To find out more about the Augsburg Convocation series, go to augsburg.edu/convo. Spring 2014 5 AROUND THE QUAD BOOK PROCEEDS to benefit Augsburg College Book describes Augsburg professor’s heritage as Norwegian immigrant Profits from lost manuscript designated for CSBR Author Phillip Formo’s new book, Papa: A Life Remembered, describes the experiences of his grandfather, Andreas Helland, a Norwegian immigrant and a longtime Augsburg College professor. In the book, Formo shares memories and insights about Helland’s teaching and commitment to the Church. Proceeds from the sale of the book will go to an Augsburg student scholarship in Helland’s memory. The family of Erwin Mickelberg is donating all profits from his lost manuscript, It’s About the Ripples, to the Center for Science, Business, and Religion. The book breaks down 1 Corinthians 13, line by line, giving meaning and scope to the well-loved passage. A NEW PATH TO DEGREE COMPLETION New bachelor’s degree program for working professionals augsburg.edu/pro Augsburg is rolling out a new, evening bachelor’s degree program for working professionals beginning fall 2014. It will be offered in a flexible, hybrid-learning format, combining traditional weeknight classes with convenient online components on an alternating, every-other-week schedule. The new degree program format is designed to help working professionals complete their major in as little as two to three years. With small classes of working professionals, students will be able to learn from and with professors and classmates. The program includes degrees in high demand among working adults—including business, communications studies, education, nursing, and psychology. More information about available majors, tuition, and financial aid is available at augsburg.edu/pro. 6 Augsburg Now Finding MEANING In Work BY STEPHANIE WEISS The value of a college education is greater than it’s been in nearly 50 years. This is the key finding of a 2014 Pew Research Center study, which showed a wider earnings gap between college-educated and less educated people ages 25-32 compared with those in the same age bracket in previous generations dating back to 1965. The report, “The Rising Cost of Not Going to College,” found that individuals ages 25-32 who hold a bachelor’s degree and work full time make $17,500 per year more than working adults in that age range who have only a high school diploma. This disparity, the report states, “has never been greater in the modern era.” But life after college is about more than just getting a job to earn a paycheck. And that’s where Pew’s research provides even further evidence of the value of a college education: According to the study, recent college graduates are more satisfied with their jobs and are more likely than those with a high school degree or less to see themselves on a career path, rather than simply working at a job to make ends meet. So what can Augsburg families do to make the most of college and to ensure that the investment in education pays off over time and helps pave the way from early jobs to a rewarding career? On the next page, you’ll meet four alumni who work in human resources management and with whom we spoke about finding meaning in work. The group provided tips and insight into how Auggies can improve job search outcomes, intentionally build their careers, and seek ways to use their gifts and talents in a meaningful manner in the world. See their advice on pages 9 and 10. AUGGIE NETWORKING EVENT [L to R]: Rick Bonlender ‘78, of the Augsburg Alumni Board, talks with Michelle Grafelman ‘14 and Donny Hunter ‘03 at an Auggie networking event. 7 MEET THE EXPERTS LARRY MORGAN ’76 President, Orion HR Group, LLC Studied: communication/mass communication and political science, minor in psychology; also holds a master’s of arts in industrial relations from the University of Minnesota What makes work rewarding: “Helping clients solve human resource-related challenges such as hiring and dealing with difficult employees; designing compensation programs; and getting thanked by top executives for resolving problems.” Augsburg College Regent LISA NOVOTNY ’80 Vice President, Human Resources, General Mills Inc. Studied: social work and Spanish; also holds master’s of arts in industrial relations from the University of Minnesota What I learned from a liberal arts education: “The liberal arts taught me to think beyond what was in front of me. It helped me find linkages to other coursework and the world, and to other systems. Grad school taught me about my discipline. Augsburg taught me to think of all the factors that impact someone and the role of the organization as something that can play a role in impacting the person.” MARCIA WRIGHT ’89 PAUL RENSTED ’87 Director of Human Resources, City of Annapolis, Md. Studied: international relations and East Asian studies, minor in history What I learned from a liberal arts education: “The liberal arts will make you well-rounded by allowing you to have a major focus area and to build around that. A liberal arts education teaches people how to think, write, communicate effectively, and relate to others. These are critical skills to succeed in the work world. They also are critical to succeed in life.” 8 Augsburg Now Global Human Resources Consultant and Human Resources Manager, Toshiba Global Commerce Solutions, Inc. Studied: psychology and business administration; also holds a master’s of arts in industrial relations from the University of Minnesota What makes work rewarding: “I get excited about making a difference—whether by driving business results or creating a positive experience for an employee. I enjoy creating programs and a work environment that optimizes our human capital.” FINDING MEANING IN WORK These four human resources professionals stressed that the starting point for Auggies is to take advantage of the rich opportunities that Augsburg College has to offer. Getting involved in student activity groups, attending networking and career events, having an internship, and more, will give Auggies a jumpstart on the skills, experience, and networks needed to land a job and grow a career. The group stressed the need for Auggies to: DO AT LEAST ONE INTERNSHIP Students should seek at least one hands-on learning opportunity while at Augsburg. Larry Morgan said that internships offer a way to practice what you are learning in the classroom and to identify skills that interest you and at which you excel. Internships are a way to explore where your gifts intersect with the needs of the world. BE MINDFUL OF ALL THE WAYS YOU COMMUNICATE Be aware of the many manners in which you communicate. “At least 40 percent of employers check social media during the background check,” Morgan said. “Many people are screened out based upon inappropriate social media [posts], and many also are screened out based upon inappropriate email addresses and voice mail messages.” But not all uses of communication tools need to cause anxiety. Morgan said that for people who are seeking jobs in the visual arts, such as in graphic design, creating an online website and portfolio to showcase work is a good way to raise your profile and professional reputation. PARTICIPATE WITH A PURPOSE Join student organizations, community groups, and professional organizations. Being involved provides opportunities to build leadership skills and a network of peers. Marcia Wright said these groups also provide students the chance to develop a reputation for doing excellent work and for showing a willingness to embrace challenges. It’s important to know what you hope to get out of a group, she said, and to be able to tell potential employers about the influence you made and results you drove. NETWORK, NETWORK, NETWORK While getting involved in student groups and professional organizations is an important component of building a face-toface network, it’s also important to take advantage of campus networking events. Morgan said these events offer an easy way to take advantage of the interest that alumni have in students and in staying connected to the College. Face-to-face networking also can be a starting point for building an online network on LinkedIn. CUSTOMIZE COVER LETTERS AND RÉSUMÉS, RESEARCH COMPANIES Human resources professionals spend only 15 to 30 seconds scanning a résumé for an initial screening. Morgan said to help ensure your résumé is sorted into the “closer look” pile, it’s critical that your résumé be spotless, that it share achievements via metrics—it should “show how you made a difference, not tell them your qualifications.” “Show how you made a difference, not tell – LARRY MORGAN them your qualifications.” Cover letters and résumés should be tailored to each job and should highlight the areas in your skills and experience that dovetail with the job for which you are applying. MAKE THE MOST OF EVERY JOB YOU HOLD It’s not uncommon at some point to hold a position that is not ideal. However, as Paul Rensted pointed out, all jobs offer opportunities. “Always strive to learn everything you can in any job you hold,” he said. “Work toward self-learning and skill growth because you get to take those skills with you. Do the same with relationships because you never know where your next job will be or who will help you get there.” STRATEGICALLY NAVIGATE FROM ONE JOB TO THE NEXT “By moving around in one company or strategically moving to different companies, you can start to focus on building your depth of expertise and interpersonal and technical skills,” Wright said. “Be sure to ask yourself before you start a job what it is that you want to get from it.” TAKE RESPONSIBILITY FOR YOUR CAREER “We all spend a lot of time at work. We need to try to enjoy that time—or change it if we don’t,” Rensted said. Spring 2014 9 FINDING MEANING IN WORK Augsburg College Regent Lisa Novotny agreed with her colleagues and added another level of insight into how Auggies can create meaning in work. She said that Auggies not only need to be taking advantage of the city as an extension of the classroom and more, they also should be able to articulate choices and decisions to potential employers. “If students don’t pay attention to where they are putting their energy, they will not be prepared to explain or represent what they did,” Novotny said. “We [hiring managers and HR professionals] don’t necessarily want to hear that a student never deviated from a path or that they never looked back. We want to hear why and how students made their choices and decisions.” “If students don’t pay attention to where they are putting their energy, they will not be prepared to explain or represent what they did.” – LISA NOVOTNY Early in their work lives, Auggies should be prepared to explain to potential employers why they took courses beyond their major or minor, how they spent their summers, what types of internships they sought, and what fuels their passion, she said. This type of deep questioning helps employers learn how a person thinks and whether they will be a good fit at an organization. In her work for one of the largest food companies in the world, Novotny said she asks probing questions to determine whether people are curious, authentic, and able to explain how they may have served as a leader even when they weren’t in obvious positions of leadership. But not every employer will ask deep questions or ask for thoughtful explanations, and that, itself, could serve as a warning sign to job candidates. “Organizations that don’t poke and prod, but that look 10 Augsburg Now only for certain coursework and a specific major, may be looking just to fill a job rather than help someone build a career of meaning and differentiating contributions,” she said. Novotny also stressed the importance of reflection after a person has landed a job. “You need to pause and ask yourself why you are doing something, what you are learning, what you are contributing to the organization and the world. But you also have to ask what it—the work—is doing for you and how it is changing you.” This diligence will help signal whether and when it is time to seek change. “Pay attention to your energy level and when and why and how it is high at work. Do the same when it is low. Ask yourself what is behind that,” Novotny said. While being intentional is critical to building toward and finding meaningful work, it’s not always the case that a vocation, or call, is apparent right away. “Sometimes meaning doesn’t come until we are ‘doing,’” Novotny said. “We need to learn what we don’t know and let some stuff be uncovered over time. Be patient while you uncover what leaves you high and low, but don’t be passive. Passive is really close to indifferent. Indifferent is close to apathy. Apathy is a hair’s breadth from disengaged. It’s hard to come back from disengaged,” she said. In the end, Novotny said, “you will find meaningful work and make meaningful contributions when what you are really good at lines up with where your skills are, what you are passionate about, and what the organization needs. Careers are 40 years or longer for a reason. They are just like life, they are a journey.” The Historyapolis Project The Future of History BY REBECCA JOHN ’13 MBA When professional historian Kirsten Delegard published her book in 2012—her first publication where she was the sole author—she sold 300 copies. “And that includes sales to my parents, in-laws, and large extended family,” she said. After nearly a decade of research, writing, and editing, her total proceeds were $96. Of course Delegard, who currently serves as a scholar-in-residence in the Augsburg College History Department, asserts that she hadn’t done the work of publishing the book to make money. “I published it to share my ideas—to tell a story about the past that few people knew.” Delegard’s book, Battling Miss Bolsheviki, describes the emergence of conservative women political activists in the United States after women won the right to vote in 1920. It was published by one of the leading university presses in the United States and was reviewed favorably by the largest professional journals in Delegard’s field. “It addresses an important and even provocative topic,” Delegard said, “something that should be interesting to lots of people—particularly in a state that includes political figures like Michele Bachmann. “But only a few people will ever pick up this book,” she said. And, so, it is not likely to “shift popular understandings of politically conservative women or women’s politics.” It was this lack of impact—not the lack of monetary reward—that caused Delegard to become disillusioned with the conventional approach to scholarly publishing in her profession. Our system squanders precious cultural resources, she said, by encouraging “our most highly trained interpreters [of history] to write things that no one reads.” History that does work in the world Instead, Delegard wanted to write history in ways that challenge people to rethink their perceptions and that give them new context to help them make sense of the world. She said she felt drawn to respond to the words American Historical Association president Carl Becker used in his 1931 annual address. Becker called on scholars to do “history that does work in the world, the history that influences the course of history,” instead of the history “that lies inert in unread books.” The question Delegard then faced was: How? Photo from the Library of Congress Spring 2014 11 “How do humanities scholars reach the people who want to hear their insights? How do they speak to broader publics?” she asked. Delegard responded to these questions by upending academic conventions and launching a history project that is digital first and “old media” second. The Historyapolis Project, as she has named it, focuses on producing a comprehensive history of the city of Minneapolis that adheres to high-quality scholarly standards and, at the same time, is accessible to the broadest possible audience. Bringing the story of a city to life Today, the Historyapolis Project is a multi-platform, historic storytelling endeavor, spanning Facebook and Twitter as well as the newly launched Historyapolis.com website. Delegard also has developed a research plan for the project as well as an outline for a narrative history of Minneapolis, which will be published by the University of Minnesota Press. A year before launching the Historyapolis Project, Delegard, a third-generation Minneapolis native, met with a wide range of community stakeholders. She spoke with representatives from museums, higher education institutions, historical archives, and policymaking and arts organizations about the need for a “usable” history of the city. “In all of these places, I heard the same thing—that the citizens of our state are hungry for complex stories about the past, for narratives that will help them understand how Minneapolis became the wonderful, complex, and contradictory place that it is today.” The last overview of Minneapolis’ history was written in 1940, Delegard said. That project, Minneapolis: The Story of a City, was a 94-page volume compiled by the Works Progress Administration (WPA) and sponsored by the Minnesota Department of Education and the then-Minneapolis Board of Education. Since then, many aspects of the city’s history have been covered in various publications, she said, but “in the largest city in our state, we do not have a central clearinghouse where people can go to find a full story of our past.” 12 10 Augsburg Now Engaging Minneapolis So, the Historyapolis Project was launched—first on Facebook—in April 2013. Delegard’s decision to undertake this work using digital tools was definitely a step outside the comfort zone of a self-proclaimed “digital convert” (as opposed to a “digital native”). But, Delegard explained, “by making [my work] available to anyone on the internet, I could reach a broader community and find the audience I was seeking—an audience interested in serious and accessible historical work that would bridge the gap between the academic domain and the larger world.” Today, Delegard posts on the Historyapolis Facebook page five days a week. Each post has an image accompanied by roughly 300 words that explain the significance of the image. “I try to challenge pre-conceived ideas about the city’s past. I present primary sources that are meant to engage readers and to catalyze conversations about difficult episodes” in Minneapolis’ history. One of the most widely read and shared Historyapolis posts was on January 1 this year, when Delegard posted an archival image and brief history of the building at 512-516 Cedar Avenue, which was destroyed in a tragic New Year’s Day explosion and fire that killed three people, and injured and displaced many others. (See a reproduction of the post on page 14.) Other examples of Historyapolis topics that have generated audience response and interaction range from a 1954 burning of a trolley car to celebrate the end of the city’s streetcar operations to a post about the beginning of desegregation in the Minneapolis schools in 1971 to various historic maps, which Delegard posts on “Map Mondays.” Because of the social nature of platforms like Facebook, Delegard’s readers not only can provide feedback about the posts that interest them, they also often share additional historical information about the topic and even engage with each other in dialogue or debate on various subjects. It’s the interactive aspect of digital media that Delegard finds most valuable. “It took me almost 18 months to get the reviews when I was publishing Battling Miss Bolsheviki,” she said. “On the Historyapolis Facebook page, I get instant and thoughtful feedback from a diverse range of readers. Almost every day these citizen researchers teach me something I didn’t know about the city. They direct me to new sources. They inspire me with their suggestions for new work and their enthusiasm for the material.” As evidence of that enthusiasm, the Historyapolis audience has grown steadily during the past year, reaching a weekly audience of nearly 3,000 by the end of February—“almost ten times as many as the total sales of my book,” Delegard noted. Historyapolis at Augsburg College The project also is gaining attention and support beyond its immediate online readership. In January, the Minnesota Historical Society (MHS) awarded an $82,000 Minnesota Arts and Cultural Heritage grant to the History Department at Augsburg College for the Historyapolis Project—the first time that an academic department of history has received funding from the Arts and Cultural Heritage program for such a project. The grant supports engaging students in the research process and, according to an MHS news release, creates a “central hub for the interpretation of Minneapolis history and an innovative model for urban collegiate history departments.” “The awarding of this grant establishes Augsburg as a center for the study of Minneapolis’ past, one in which the broader public will play a powerful role,” said Michael Lansing, associate professor and chair of the Augsburg History Department. It builds on the History Department’s long-term commitment to the public work of history and to expanding its role in the discipline of “public history”—a discipline that comprises the many and diverse ways in which history is applied to real-world issues. According to the National Council on Public History, public history is practiced by “historical consultants, museum professionals, government historians, archivists, oral historians, cultural resource managers, curators, film and media producers, historical interpreters, historic preservationists, policy advisers, local historians, and community activists, among many, many other job descriptions.” As part of its commitment to history education at every level, the Augsburg History Department has, for years, hosted Minnesota History Day, which is one of 12 National History Day venues and provides more than 30,000 Minnesota social studies students in grades 6-12 with the chance to be actual historians. Augsburg is also home to the ACTC Museum Fellows Program, a semesterlong course taught by MHS historians and available to students from any of the five Associated Colleges of the Twin Cities (ACTC) institutions. Bringing the Historyapolis Project to Augsburg, Lansing said, extends this commitment into the digital arena, incorporating tools and skills that are increasingly critical for the practice of public history. The first year of the project at Augsburg is focused on research and, this spring, Delegard has engaged several Augsburg students, funded through April by the MHS grant, in conducting research that will lay the foundation for specific digital projects in the future—including projects that may serve as the foundation for future grant applications, Lansing said. “This transformational research project creates an incredible immersion experience for students,” Lansing said. Plus, it supports both the Augsburg College History Department and the people of Minnesota by creating a collaborative, “public work that brings the practice of history into the world.” Delegard agrees. “The Historyapolis Project focuses on the history of Minneapolis, but the practices and collaboration it represents are as much about the role of higher education in shaping our shared future as it is about our historical roots.” Editor’s note: Portions of the background about the Historyapolis Project were derived from a presentation delivered in November by historian Kirsten Delegard to Augsburg students in The History Workshop course. Spring 2014 13 The Historyapolis Project Minnesota Historical Society Historyapolis.com Featured on these pages are reprints of three posts from the Historyapolis Project. To read about, discuss, and engage with the history of Minneapolis, go to Historyapolis.com and click to the blog or to the project’s Facebook and Twitter sites. R.I.P., 514 Cedar Avenue Posted January 1, 2014 Tragic news from the Cedar-Riverside neighborhood, where 514 Cedar Avenue exploded this morning. At least 13 people were injured in the blaze; as of this writing, three people have not been found in the icy ruins. The building’s first floor contained a small grocery that catered to the tastes of the immigrant neighborhood. Upstairs were inexpensive apartments that provided basic housing for new African immigrants. When Peter Nordberg constructed this building in 1886, he designed it to house two stores on the first floor and “twenty room flats” above. At this time, this section of Cedar Avenue was known as “Snusgatan” and was the commercial center for new Scandinavian immigrants. The traditional gateway for newcomers to the city, the neighborhood began to transform once immigration slowed to a trickle during the Great Depression. In 1968, the struggling Cedar-Riverside neighborhood provided the perfect location for a new commercial endeavor envisioned by two [University of Minnesota] students. Ron Korsh and Dan Foley started the Electric Fetus music store at 521 Cedar Avenue in 1968, hoping to sell the psychedelic rock music they heard coming out of San Francisco. Korsh quickly became bored with the store and sold his share to Keith Covart, who is credit[ed] with making the business a long-lasting success. These counterculture entrepreneurs kept their store in 14 Augsburg Now the news. In 1969, police confiscated a poster from the store that depicted a nude couple resembling President Richard Nixon and his wife. Notoriety (and low record prices) helped the store to grow, forcing it to seek larger quarters across the street. In October 1969, it moved into 514 Cedar Avenue, the building destroyed in this morning’s blaze. In 1970, Covart was arrested after the store displayed a United States flag with a peace symbol superimposed in the spot usually reserved for the 50 white stars. In 1972, the store held a “naked sale,” offering free records and pipes to nude patrons. After fifty people showed up to claim their free merchandise, the store lost its lease on Cedar Avenue. With the influx of Somali immigrants, Cedar-Riverside has once again become a first stop for new arrivals to the city. And the building at 512-516 Cedar had reverted to its original purpose. The tiny apartments and ethnic businesses destroyed this morning would have seemed very familiar to Peter Nordberg, the nineteenth-century entrepreneur who recognized the economic potential of a new immigrant community. Photo from the Minnesota Historical Society. And material for this post is taken from the excellent history of the Electric Fetus, [“A History of the Electric Fetus”], written by Penny A. Petersen and Charlene K. Roise in July 2006. School Desegregation in Minneapolis Hennepin County Library Special Collections In November 1970, the Minneapolis Public Schools announced a modest proposal meant to begin the desegregation of its schools. Aimed at undermining the effects of residential segregation in the city, it recognized that neighborhood schools were stratified by race. In the scheme announced by the School Board, two elementary schools would be paired. The all-white Hale School would trade students with nearby Field School, which was almost entirely African American. Children in the youngest grades would attend Hale; grades four through six would go to Field. The proposal was poorly received by a vocal minority, which coalesced behind Mayor Charlie Stenvig, a former police detective. Stenvig ran for mayor in 1969 as an independent, on a platform of law and order. Anxieties about the urban disturbances on the North Side dissipated quickly after Stenvig took office. They were completely eclipsed by rising concerns about the racial integration of the school system. District officials knew that if they could not come up with a workable integration plan, they would soon find themselves under a court order to begin widespread busing. A determined group of parents sought to block these efforts, calling on officials to defy any legal orders. By 1970, anxious parents were voicing their opposition in marathon meetings; one meeting stretched twelve hours long, breaking up at 5 a.m. after everyone had spoken for three minutes. Concerned citizens were not content to express their opinions in public forums. School board member Harry Davis—the only African American on the board—had to keep his phone off the hook to prevent a constant barrage of threatening phone calls. Minnesota Historical Society Posted November 13, 2013 Despite the popular opposition, Minneapolis moved forward with its plan to combine Hale and Field in the fall of 1971. The paired schools attracted a committed group of parents, who worked to build an integrated school community that could be a model for the rest of the city. This photo shows Monica Lash (left) and Molly Johnson (right) on their ﬁrst day on the bus in 1971. The image comes from Dave Kenney, who curates the MN70s tumblr, and the Minnesota Historical Society. Minneapolis Streetcars Posted June 19, 2013 The city has decided to invest millions to build new streetcar lines. Which [begs] the question, what happened to our old streetcar system? It met its demise in June of 1954 when this sinister-looking photo was taken. This image records the celebration organized by the Twin City Rapid Transit Company [TCRT] when it declared streetcars to be relics of the past. On this early summer day, the company actually burned streetcars—like the one in the background-—to demonstrate its commitment to progress and innovation. The men in this photo were celebrating the purchase of 525 buses, which had been financed with liberal terms from General Motors. This allowed them to discard the streetcars and dispose of assets necessary to maintain the rail network. This image shows TCRT treasurer James Towey handing a check (from NSP for the company’s Main Steam Station) to company president Fred Ossanna, who was later investigated for shady business dealings and political bribes. Spring 2014 15 MY AUGGIE EXPERIENCE THEHeart OF MINNEAPOLIS Archive photo BY STEPHEN GEFFRE AND LAURA SWANSON with thanks to Augsburg Archivist and History Professor Kristin Anderson Since 1872, Augsburg—and many Auggies—have called Minneapolis home. The history of the College is interwoven tightly with that of Mill City and its vibrant Cedar-Riverside neighborhood. These archival images portray the College’s ever-changing campus and illustrate its connection to the broader municipality. Take a close look. And take a moment to recall your own Augsburg history. Archive photo › The group photograph shows the Augsburg Seminary community in February 1918. At that time, Augsburg Seminary had three areas of focus—a theological school, a college, and a preparatory department. › Built during the 1948-49 academic year, Augsburg’s Science Hall in its early years served several functions, including as the campus entrance; the home of student publications, administrative offices, and the economics department; and—naturally—the site of lecture rooms and science laboratories, as seen here. 16 Augsburg Now › In 1967, the construction of Augsburg College’s Christensen Center and Urness Tower buildings coincided with Interstate 94 development occurring at the campus periphery. The freeway changed the College’s southern border, creating a finite boundary between its Cedar-Riverside home and the Seward neighborhood, although pedestrian bridges were in place prior to freeway completion. Archive photo ‹ In 1872, Augsburg established its campus next to Murphy Square—Minneapolis’ oldest public park—and this 1905 photograph by Sweet Studio shows children at play. The image is in the Minnesota Historical Society’s collection and was enlarged for display in Murphy’s, a dining establishment formerly located in the Christensen Center. Archive photo On October 8, 1972, Augsburg held groundbreaking and site dedication ceremonies for a new student apartment tower that later was named Mortensen Hall after Gerda Mortensen, long-time Dean of Women at the College. In addition to housing Auggies, the tower initially was intended to serve students from St. Mary’s Junior College and the Fairview Hospital nursing program, as well as St. Olaf College nursing students who trained in Minneapolis hospitals. › [L to R]: Oscar A. Anderson, Augsburg College president; Sr. Mary Madonna Ashton, executive vice-president of St. Mary’s Hospital; Sr. Anne Joachim Moore, president of St. Mary’s Junior College; Suzann Olson ’73, Augsburg student body president; Leonard F. Ramberg, chairman of Augsburg’s Board of Regents; Kent S. Knutson, president of the American Lutheran Church; and Carl Platou, chief administrator of Fairview Hospital. Spring 2014 Archive photo 17 IT TAKES AN AUGGIE THE TEMPERATURE’S RISING As we expectantly watch outdoor temperatures climb this spring, the Augsburg community has seen the mercury rise on another attention-drawing gauge. The fundraising thermometer for the campaign for the Center for Science, Business, and Religion (CSBR) has surpassed its halfway mark, reaching nearly $27 million* thanks to donors who continue to demonstrate support for the largest building project in the College’s history. An outgrowth of the campaign’s continued success is that we’ve heard new stories about why Augsburg College means so much to so many. Augsburg is a place where faculty members connect with students, helping them to troubleshoot assignments and to work through life’s tough decisions. Augsburg is a place where coaches inspire teamwork, sparking an enduring dedication to collaboration and a passion for cooperation. Augsburg is a place where alumni are proud to call themselves Auggies, supporting current students and recent graduates who will carry the legacy forward. And, Augsburg is a place where people flourish, meeting some of their dearest friends and making some of their fondest memories. Here are a few such stories. Class of ’52 couple gives $250,000 to sponsor physics laboratory Harvey ’52 and Joanne Peterson ’52 believe the CSBR demonstrates how Augsburg prepares students for the future with energy and vitality. Combined, these Auggie sweethearts were involved in activities ranging from athletics to the Augsburg Choir, and beyond their student years, they have maintained deep ties to the College. Bill Anderson ’56 sponsors new biology laboratory Bill Anderson ’56 found a creative way to make a big difference with his support for the CSBR. Currently president of the Minnesota Federation of Stamp Clubs, he is a lifelong collector who gives Augsburg valuable 18 Augsburg Now stamps each year and has named the College as a major beneficiary of his estate. Anderson taught high school biology for 34 years, and he said he enjoys seeing Augsburg’s plans for the CSBR move forward. Marilyn ’61 and Tom Breckenridge sponsor two faculty offices for CSBR Rev. Marilyn Saure Breckenridge ’61 is Augsburg’s first female graduate to be ordained as a Lutheran pastor. She and her husband, Tom, initially planned to sponsor one office in the Religion Department in gratitude for Marilyn’s undergraduate education and her Distinguished Alumna Award, but—as their excitement about the CSBR project grew—they sponsored an additional office located in the Business Department to reflect an important aspect of Tom’s ministry. Roommates from ’45 sponsor adjacent rooms in CSBR Beth (Buesing) Opgrand ’45 and her college roommate, Genevieve (Larson) Hendrickson ’45, reconnected after 50 years and both decided to give a naming gift for a faculty office in the CSBR. It seems only fitting that these faculty offices sit side by side. Oliver Dahl ’45 sponsors faculty office in CSBR Oliver Dahl ’45 has had an 80-year relationship with Augsburg College. From age 10 to 15, he went to campus to practice basketball while on a Trinity Lutheran Church youth team in Minneapolis. Dahl enrolled at Augsburg in 1941, and in 1942, served as the College’s first wrestling coach before leaving to join the U.S. Army during World War II. Dahl has named Augsburg’s athletics program and the CSBR project the major beneficiaries of his estate, and he says, “I’ve been thinking about Augsburg College all of my life.” LAURA SWANSON These stories—and many others—are available in an extended format on the CSBR campaign blog. To read more, visit augsburg.edu/now. *Figure represents fundraising total as of February 28. AUGGIE VOICES JOB ON THE Young alumni value networks formed and opportunities available at Augsburg College As excitement and anticipation grow regarding the campaign for the Center for Science, Business, and Religion, Augsburg’s newest alumni can articulate why studying at a college that emphasizes thinking across disciplines and beyond convention proved beneficial in their education and invaluable when launching their professional careers. BY LAURA SWANSON TRENT ANDERSON ’12 Studied: accounting, business administration, and economics Current role: Certified Public Accountant and Assurance Associate, CliftonLarsonAllen People have the wrong idea about accountants, according to Trent Anderson ’12. “It’s not really as math-intensive as you’d think,” he said. Sure, Anderson admits that part of his job entails adding or multiplying large groups of numbers, but he also stresses that teamwork and client relations are equally important—and, for him, energizing—aspects of his career. Anderson chose to attend Augsburg because the College offered him the opportunity to exercise his passion for teamwork as a student athlete. During his undergraduate experience, Anderson found that he and his baseball teammates developed friendships with bonds as strong as family and a network with the potential to influence their careers. It was an Augsburg alumnus and former baseball player employed by CliftonLarsonAllen who introduced Anderson to what turned out to be his first employer—and one of the top 10 accountancy firms in the United States. Both Auggies benefited from the College’s small-school experience, Anderson explained, where it is possible to develop meaningful relationships with professors, fellow students, and Twin Cities professionals. “It’s an interesting mix,” he said. “Augsburg is about more than mastering one subject. It’s about being a well-rounded student, a well-rounded individual. Now that is something I value to this day.” To watch Trent Anderson discuss his start at CliftonLarsonAllen, go to augsburg.edu/now. Spring 2014 19 ANGELA BONFIGLIO ’13 Studied: sociology, youth and family ministry Current role: Director of Youth Programs, Redeemer Center for Life and Redeemer Lutheran Church During her second year at Augsburg, Angela Bonfiglio ’13 sought the opportunity to become involved in Minneapolis’ community partnership work, and the College’s Sabo Center for Citizenship and Learning was able to connect her with an organization matching her interests and her studies. By the next fall, Bonfiglio was an afterschool program coordinator at Redeemer Center for Life, a nonprofit seeking to meet the housing, employment, and youth development needs of Harrison and North Minneapolis neighborhood residents. Her work—funded through a Batalden Scholarship at Augsburg—turned out to be a near-perfect fit, and she continued to lead the program during her senior year. A few months prior to completing her degree, Redeemer’s executive director offered Bonfiglio a full-time position following graduation. She accepted the offer, recognizing that she could use the knowledge and skills she’d gained during college in her future position. “I loved youth ministry classes, and sociology challenged me in a new way,” she said. Today she couples her sociological research experience with her background in youth programming to guide the “big picture” for the nonprofit’s youth activities. “The work is completely interdisciplinary,” she said. “I can ‘plug into’ contexts for both sociology and youth ministry, and that’s because of Augsburg.” ALEX SORUM ’13 To watch Alex Sorum discuss the URGO project he completed with Jennifer Bankers-Fulbright, associate professor of biology, in Augsburg’s summer research video series, go to augsburg.edu/now. Studied: biology, chemistry Current role: Postbaccalaureate Cancer Research Training Award Fellow, National Cancer Institute Daily tasks vary widely for Alex Sorum ’13, a research fellow in one of the National Cancer Institute’s chemical biology laboratories. Some days he tests enzyme activity, and other days he synthesizes compounds. Synthesis, it seems, is a common theme between his college experiences and his life since graduation. As a double major, Sorum was quick to take part in every opportunity available to him, oftentimes combining his interests. “I always knew I wanted to go into research,” he said. “The biggest benefit for me was that Augsburg professors use a hands-on approach in their teaching.” Sorum satisfied his appetite for research through on- and off-campus opportunities that allowed him to gain valuable experience and strengthen his relationships with faculty mentors. It was Michael Wentzel, assistant professor of chemistry, who helped introduce Sorum to the National Cancer Institute, and other faculty members’ thoughtful letters of recommendation that allowed him to secure the prestigious position. The National Cancer Institute was “looking for someone with the ability to perform in this research position,” he recalls. “With my past experience, I had the ability to both think critically and to problem-solve. Now that’s key.” 20 Augsburg Now 1 2 3 4 BY LAURA SWANSON The 26th annual Nobel Peace Prize Forum—an event that celebrates the importance, consequence, and controversy of the Nobel Peace Prize—was held March 1 and 7-9 in three Minneapolis locations, including Augsburg College. With “Crossing Boundaries to Create Common Ground” as its theme, the 2014 Forum brought Nobel Peace Prize winners, civic leaders, and scholars together with students and other citizens to contemplate questions of peace and conflict. Now in its third year of permanent residency in the Twin Cities, the Forum welcomed more than 5,700 ticket holders who explored topics ranging from science to law and from music to global affairs and business. His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, the 1989 Nobel Peace Prize laureate, delivered the Forum’s opening address at Faith and Peace Day. Leymah Gbowee—a 2011 Nobel Peace Prize winner and Liberian peace activist—spoke at Global Day, and Dr. Deane Marchbein represented Doctors Without Borders/Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF)—the 1999 Nobel Peace Prize laureate— on Science and Health Day. Representatives from the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons, the 2013 Nobel Peace Prize winner, also led a breakout session. In addition to engaging attendees in speeches, book signings, networking events, and more, the 2014 Forum premiered a partnership with social networking service Google+ that enabled online attendees to live-stream events, submit questions to keynote speakers, and participate in thought-provoking dialogue—all from their unique locations around the globe. “The opportunity to host the Nobel Peace Prize Forum offers our students, alumni, and international community inspiring examples of those people who strive to make peace and to make a difference in our world,” said Augsburg College President Paul Pribbenow. “At the heart of Augsburg’s mission are our commitments to educating informed global citizens and to embracing the links between faith and learning.” Spring 2014 21 6 5 PEACE ON THE STREET BRAD ST. AUBIN ’15 The Dalai Lama is looked at as a paragon of peacemaking, but his address helped reinforce that he is also human. When doing peace work, we want solutions, but his ability to say, ‘I don’t know,’ gave a nod to the fact that even our revered leaders don’t have all the answers. The 2014 Forum was an event that united the Augsburg community, and Auggies participated both as guests and as volunteers. One Auggie who worked at the Nobel Peace Prize Forum was Banna Kidane ’15. A Sabo Scholar studying computer science, Kidane was an intern for the Nobel Peace Prize Forum and acknowledged the rarity of his chance to serve. “Being an intern with the NPPF is a once-in-alifetime opportunity that I’m happy I didn’t pass up,” Kidane said. It is through making memories, sparking ideas, and spurring action that the Forum lives out its mission to inspire peacemaking. A few Auggies shared reflections, takeaways, and highlights from their NPPF experiences: HUMAN KIM BESTLER ’10, Augsburg program assistant and tutor coordinator, TRiO/Student Support Services It’s a privilege that Augsburg gets to host an international event that so tightly corresponds with our College mission. MISSION PEACE LOVE UNAFRAID COMPASSION COMMUNITY CHARMAYNE SLETTEN, AUGSBURG PARENT The presentations inspired peacemaking that starts with love and compassion by each individual. PAUL BATALDEN ’63 I realize I can’t personally control the emerging, complex world. I, too, have no other choice but to control what I pay attention to, what words I use, what relationships I maintain, and what community I foster. Through these recognitions, choices, and actions, I can exert my influence and do my part for peace and a better world. INFLUENCE 22 Augsburg Now SHELBY ANDRESS ’56 Augsburg is unafraid to enter a complicated world, guide its entire community in ways of peace and noble action, and use its spheres of influence. LIZZIE FONTAINE ’16 The NPPF brings together a whole community. That’s a huge gift for Augsburg. BRAM OOSTERLEE ’16 My favorite part of the Nobel Peace Prize Forum is the connections you make with the speakers and the audience. The speakers open up discussions that are not held often enough, and the audience is excited and encouraged to take action. CONNECTIONS 7 8 9 ABOUT THE PHOTOS NOBEL PEACE PRIZE FORUM SPONSORS PAGE 21: The Forum is housed and coordinated by Augsburg College in partnership with the University of Minnesota Humphrey School of Public Affairs and the School of Public Health. It was founded in 1989 through a unique partnership between the Norwegian Nobel Institute and five Norwegian Lutheran colleges—Augsburg, Augustana (Sioux Falls, S.Dak.), Concordia (Moorhead, Minn.), Luther (Decorah, Iowa) and St. Olaf (Northfield, Minn.). 1 His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, the 1989 Nobel Peace Prize laureate 2 Dr. Deane Marchbein, American president of Doctors Without Borders/Médecins Sans Frontières, the 1999 Nobel Peace Prize laureate 3 Leymah Gbowee, Liberian peace activist and 2011 Nobel Peace Prize laureate LAW AND BUSINESS DAY SPONSOR 4 Jay Nordlinger, senior editor of National Review; Stephen Young, global executive director of the Caux Round Table; and Geir Lundestad, director of the Norwegian Nobel Institute MAJOR EVENT SPONSORS PAGE 22: 5 Singer/songwriter Mason Jennings 6 Arjia Rinpoche, director of the Tibetan Mongolian Buddhist Cultural Center in Bloomington, Ind. Page 23: 7 Burroughs Community School students performing at the Nobel Peace Prize Youth Festival 8 Dr. Maureen Reed, executive director of the Nobel Peace Prize Forum 9 A Peace Quilt Labyrinth exhibited at Oren Gateway Center To view additional photos, watch laureate addresses and keynote presentations, or learn more about the Forum, go to augsburg.edu/now. EVENT SPONSORS Barbara Forster and Mary Tjosvold, Smaby Family Foundation, U.S. Embassy-Oslo, and Winds of Peace Foundation FESTIVAL PRODUCTION PARTNER Spring 2014 23 AUGGIES ON THE FIELD COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT, COMPETITION, & CULTURAL LEARNING Photos courtesy of Augsburg’s Women’s Soccer Team It’s easy to say that students at Augsburg College are interested in the world around them and that they strive to make a difference by serving their neighbors. It shows a deeper commitment to living out the College’s mission to be engaged citizens when a group of student-athletes chooses to take a winter break trip to Nicaragua instead of a destination beach vacation in Costa Rica. This winter, the women’s soccer team showed just what it means to be an Auggie when the group of student athletes voted to go to Nicaragua for a trip comprised of community engagement, reflective service work, and soccer. When the student-athletes combined their desire for such a trip with the rich programming that comes from partnering with the College’s 30-year-old, award-winning 24 Augsburg Now Center for Global Education (CGE), the team landed an experience that pushed their boundaries and understanding of the world. “The players genuinely have hungry hearts and open minds,” said Mike Navarre, head coach of the women’s soccer team. “They voted to have an immersion experience, and I am proud that they feel they have a responsibility to make the world better.” By collaborating with CGE, the women’s soccer team became the first of the Auggie teams to participate in a winter break trip that met the College’s “Augsburg Experience” requirement, a distinctive feature of an Augsburg education that links classroom theory with off-campus learning through activities including internships, practica, service-learning courses, study abroad, special and individualized off-campus immersion experiences, and more. “Our CGE program has deep relationships and a permanent presence in Nicaragua, as well as other locations in the world. We have established mutual trust with our international partners, so students who go abroad engage in meaningful ways with the communities that they visit,” said Leah Spinosa de Vega, director of Augsburg Abroad and International Programs. “The result is that we deliver a customized experience that aligns students’ talents and interests with the wants and needs of the community. The programs also challenge students to see that the community also serves the students—that both groups experience a mutual gain from the engagement and that there is reciprocity of giving.” For the Auggie women’s soccer team, CGE designed a program that included service at a preschool and soccer clinic, competition against Nicaragua’s national women’s soccer team, and cultural learning activities. The student-athletes spent about a third of their time serving two organizations, Nica HOPE (nicahope. org) and Casa Alianza (casa-alianza. org). The team painted the preschool operated by Nica HOPE, an organization that evolved to serve the needs of people who live around and near the site of the now-closed Managua City trash dump and who depended upon foraging in the dump for income and survival. For the second service project, student-athletes conducted a soccer training clinic with Casa Alianza—an organization that serves young people who are homeless, or may have been trafficked or exploited. “We were humbled by the challenges of the kids at Casa Alianza and grateful to share in their love of soccer.” -MIKE NAVARRE The clinic prepared the Casa Alianza youth soccer team to represent Nicaragua in the international Street Child World Cup (streetchildworldcup.org), a soccer tournament that is held in late March in Brazil with the goal of raising international awareness of issues of homeless youths. “We were humbled by the challenges of the kids at Casa Alianza and grateful to share in their love of soccer,” Navarre said. The Auggie team also had the opportunity to compete in a series of three games against the Nicaragua women’s national football (soccer) team. While the Nicaraguan team won two games, the Auggies tied in the third game. All the games received coverage in Nicaraguan newspapers, an added bonus because it raises awareness of the value and impact of women’s sports. “Our players work hard and respond well to raised expectations on and off the field,” Navarre said. “We showcase who we are by how we play soccer. It’s our medium. It has proven to be a significant medium through which our players can grow individually and collectively.” The team also visited a coffee growing cooperative, La Reina Agroecotourism Project, in the small, rural community of Matagalpa. The visit was a chance to learn about the cooperative, which has 55 members of whom 22 are women, about the impact of coffee and ecotourism on the national economy, and about the culture and typical lifestyle in Nicaragua. All the experiences—working to improve the Nica HOPE preschool, working on soccer techniques with homeless youths through Casa Alianza, visiting the coffee cooperative, and even the bits of free time—not only help students build a greater understanding of the world we share, but also help them prepare for the work world. “Employers today are looking for employees with intercultural skills,” said Spinosa de Vega. “Augsburg and CGE programs require that participants take time to reflect upon their experience. Reflection is fundamental to driving intercultural skills development. This process undertaken by the team—to engage and reflect—will help bolster their success in their professional and personal lives.” To make the trip possible, studentathletes conducted soccer camps and clinics, fundraisers, and an online auction. In all, they raised about $20,000. Team co-captain Alekzandra “Ali” Miller ’14, a business management major responsible for the online auction, said she knew the value and impact that playing soccer and studying abroad can have. During high school, Miller played soccer in Sweden and Denmark, and earlier in her college career, she spent a semester studying in Spain. Miller wanted her teammates to have an experience like the ones she had, but also knew finances would be a challenge for some of her teammates. The trip was highly rewarding to all the participants and Navarre and Spinosa de Vega are hopeful that the success of the trip will spur other athletics teams to explore how to mix sport, community engagement, and reflective service for the type of meaningful learning experience for which Augsburg College is nationally known. “It’s hard to say how much of an impact we were able to make in just eight days,” Miller said. “But I can say for certain that our team was impacted for the better. These types of experiences are the kind of catalysts that give a direction to people’s lives, that spark a new type of gratitude, and that change the way we think about and live our lives.” “This trip confirmed for me and the players that we have an obligation to make ourselves and the world a little better,” Navarre said. “In doing so, we also make our own lives better. We don’t need to be overwhelmed by the enormity or gravity of the world’s problems. We can embrace the world to make meaningful connections and improvements.” STEPHANIE WEISS Spring 2014 25 ALUMNI NEWS FROM THE ALUMNI BOARD PRESIDENT t Dear alumni and friends, used as a resource by alumni and students, and it features posts specifically for Auggies from local and national employers. The next time you or your employer are hiring, consider employing a fellow Auggie. We have already seen what can happen when Auggies work together—we accomplish great things. I would like to set another goal. Currently, approximately 1,000 alumni are posting jobs on AUGPOST. I would like that to increase to 5,000 alumni submitting internship, job, and volunteer opportunities. Imagine the influence we can have on current Augsburg students and their future opportunities. Learn more at augsburg.edu/strommen. Sincerely, Courtesy photo his fall, I reached out to you, my fellow Auggies, to ask that you support our alma mater on Give to the Max Day by donating to more than 25 different Augsburg fundraising projects. I am grateful to the 837 donors who helped us raise $313,639 in one day and achieve our goals of coming in first place among colleges and universities and fourth place among all Minnesota nonprofits! This proves that when Auggies pull together, we can accomplish any goal! I am often asked, “How, in addition to supporting Augsburg with gifts, can I help the College and the current students?” Here’s an answer: draw upon your experience, expertise, and networks to help students who are looking for jobs and internships. Our students are bright, ardent, and ambitious. They represent our best hope for the future. Their most immediate challenge in moving on to life after Augsburg is aligning their liberal arts degree with a career path that will be personally rewarding and provide them with financial independence. I encourage all Augsburg alumni and parents to post internship, job, or volunteer opportunities—for free—on AUGPOST through Augsburg’s Clair and Gladys Strommen Center for Meaningful Work. AUGPOST is an online job posting board TRACY (ANDERSON) SEVERSON ’95 ALUMNI BOARD PRESIDENT Join the women of Augsburg for CONVERSATION, LAUGHTER, AND INSPIRATION The leaders of AWE (Augsburg Women Engaged) and the Augsburg Associates are teaming up to host an interactive alumnae event in which women discuss issues prevalent in contemporary culture, including their reﬂection on the question, “Am I measuring up?” At this inspirational event for Auggie women of all ages, attendees will engage in conversation on what it means to be daughters, mothers, grandmothers, women in public leadership and business, and involved community members. Join us for brunch and hear insightful remarks from author, speaker, and TV host Joan Steffend, as well as from an alumnae panel. The event will be held from 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., Saturday, May 17. The cost is $25, which includes the meal. RSVP at augsburg.edu/alumnievents. For more information, call 612-330-1085 or email alumni@augsburg.edu. 26 Augsburg Now 170 ALUMNI JOIN THE CHALLENGE Courtesy photo as class leaders Celebrating Lutheran heritage and the Reformation In the past year, Wayne Jorgenson ’71 and Chris Ascher ’81 have made a concerted effort to seek the financial support of Augsburg’s entire alumni community through the campaign for the Center for Science, Business, and Religion. The Class Challenge goal they set—for each Augsburg class to contribute a total of $1 million toward this effort—has generated great momentum that has carried forward into 2014. So far, the classes of 1952, 1965, and 1971 have each exceeded their $1 million goal. Their passion is catching on. As the momentum builds for this essential and visionary project, Jorgenson and Ascher have been joined by more than 170 alumni from across the years, each of whom has made an individual campaign commitment and encouraged classmates to join them in contributing to the campaign. Currently, every class from 1942 to 2014 has at least one classmate who has contributed to the campaign. Since the challenge began, there has been a 53 percent increase in the number of alumni donors supporting the CSBR. For 2014, Jorgenson and Ascher set a goal of 40 or more people from each graduating class to become financial supporters of the campaign. The highest class participation award (so far) goes to the Class of 1972 with 27 donors. Which class wants to exceed their goal? “Each additional classmate who joins with their support for this wonderful project will find the satisfaction of adding their generosity to the cause,” said Jorgenson. “The goal is ambitious, and we truly need a lot of you to say, ‘Yes, I believe, and I will help.’ The size of all contributions will vary, as they should, based on each person’s situation and ability to give. Please know that, for each gift, we are truly grateful.” Visit the CSBR blog (augsburg.edu/csbr) for the latest progress on the campaign and alumni participation in the Class Challenge. Augsburg College is designing a custom travel program for October 2016 that will celebrate the Reformation and the upcoming 500th anniversary of when Martin Luther in 1517 nailed the 95 Theses to the church doors in Wittenberg, Germany. A highlight of the trip itinerary will be a visit to Wittenberg over October 31—a time when the town annually celebrates Reformation Day with a parade, medieval fair, special church service, and evening concert. In addition to visiting Wittenberg, the itinerary includes stops in the German cities of Berlin, Dresden, Eisenach, Erfurt, Leipzig, and Prague, Czech Republic. Led by Augsburg Department of Religion faculty members Mark Tranvik and Hans Wiersma, program participants will explore the lives and ministries of Martin and Katie Luther and the legacies of influential Lutheran musicians Johann Sebastian Bach and Paul Gerhardt. They will learn about Dietrich Bonhoeffer, a 20th century German theologian and martyr, and Jan Hus, a church reformer of 15th century Prague—100 years before Luther. Participants also will hear about the church’s role in the Peaceful Revolution that brought down the Berlin Wall and remember the sobering days of WWII at the Buchenwald concentration camp. This travel program is an opportunity to explore the connections between people, cultures, and historical events while examining the Reformation as an ongoing influence in the 21st century. To receive updates about this alumni tour as plans are finalized, email alumni@augsburg.edu, or call 612-330-1085 to be included on a mailing list. Spring 2014 27 homecoming ALUMNI NEWS CELEBRATE YOUR REUNION SAVE THE DATE FOR HOMECOMING 2014 SEPTEMBER 22-27 Join Augsburg alumni and friends for Homecoming 2014 Whether or not you are celebrating a class reunion this year, new events accompanied by traditional favorites make Homecoming Week one of the best times of year to come back to visit campus. Reconnect with alumni and favorite faculty members, and experience the Augsburg of 2014. The week will include reunion events, networking and educational opportunities, and fun for the entire family. The Homecoming Convocation on September 26 will kick off the weekend at a morning celebration where the College will bestow the First Decade, Spirit of Augsburg, and Distinguished Alumni awards, and recognize members of the class of 1964 celebrating their 50-year reunion. This year’s Taste of Augsburg 28 26 Augsburg Now pregame festival on September 27 will include excitement for all ages, with fair-style booths operated by student, parent, and alumni groups. Following the picnic, cheer on the Auggies at the Homecoming Football Game as they take on St. Olaf College. The Auggie Block Party is back by popular demand! Following the football game, gather in the parking lot to the north of Si Melby Hall to enjoy food, entertainment, and camaraderie. The activities don’t end there! Homecoming weekend truly has something for everyone. For more information and a complete schedule, visit augsburg.edu/ homecoming. [ REUNION CLASSES 60th Reunion 1954 50th Reunion 1964 40th Reunion 1974 25th Reunion 1989 10th Reunion 2004 If you would like to help make your reunion a success, call the Office of Alumni and Constituent Relations at 612-330-1085 or email alumni@augsburg.edu. ] ALUMNI CLASS NOTES 50 John Shelstad was inducted into the Minnesota Livestock Breeders Hall of Fame at the University of Minnesota. 62 Ron C. Nelson received the Faithfulness in Ministry Cross Award from Luther Seminary in January. The honor was given in the category of “25 years or more” of faithful ministry. 66 Grace (Estenson) Fladeboe retired after 30 years of work as a family and consumer science teacher, and she continues employment with her husband and children for Fladeboe Auctions. 67 Marlys (Ruona) Thomsen and her husband, Tom, have enjoyed traveling in their RV since his retirement. They have especially enjoyed the Susquehanna River and mountains in Pennsylvania; Florida; the southeastern United States; the Pacific Coast (Southern California to the Olympic Peninsula); the vineyards of Washington, Oregon, and California; the gorgeous sights of Alaska; and the Texas coast. At home, they are working on a backyard garden and are active in their church, Grace Lutheran of Apple Valley, and Sons of Norway. 74 Scot Davis became the winningest wrestling coach in U.S. high school history when his Eden Prairie, Minn., team beat Columbia Heights, Minn., 58-17 on December 12. Davis, who is in his 36th season as a high school head coach, is the first high school wrestling coach in the nation to surpass the 1,000 dual meet wins mark. 77 Randy “Goggles” Nelson was inducted into the Minnesota State High School Golf Coaches Association Hall of Fame in June. His teams have earned three state titles, two second-place finishes, and one third-place finish. He has had an individual champion and numerous other state participants in 21 years of coaching at the Academy of Holy Angels in Richfield, Minn. Jodi and Rick Pelishek have advocated for the rights of people with disabilities for many years. They began a statewide disabilities coalition in North Dakota and later, Rick was hired by Disability Rights Wisconsin (DRW), the state’s protection and advocacy system, to work on a rural transportation project in Northwest Wisconsin and to begin the development of a Northwest Wisconsin DRW office. He and Jodi received a national award for their efforts on behalf of the Rice Lake (Wis.) DRW. Rick currently is retired and shares these thoughts with his fellow Auggies: “Your education is to help you pursue your passion and to follow your dreams. Wealth or poverty may follow, but in the end you will find more joy and inner peace by following your heart.” David B. Wattman and John Karason ’78 were married at Bethany Lutheran Church in Minneapolis on November 9. Officiating were Susan Masters of Bethany Lutheran Church and Justin Lind-Ayers, Augsburg College associate pastor. 99 83 Ryan Adrian-Hendrick Rivard and his wife, Kristin, had a baby girl, Maeve Wren Rivard, on July 8. Debra Hannu was selected as 2013-14 Minnesota Art Educator of the Year and also Minnesota Middle School Art Educator of the Year by Art Educators of Minnesota, the state’s only professional organization for visual and media arts educators. She is in her 25th year at the Duluth Public Schools, teaching 63 Carol (Erickson) Zwernik retired in the summer of 2013 after serving for 45 years at Calvary Lutheran in Golden Valley, Minn. She was director of pre-kindergarten for 30 years, a teacher for 12 years, and director of children’s choirs for 25 years. She was awarded the Vetter Educational Service Award in 2011 from the Evangelical Lutheran Education Association and named Director of the Year in 2006 by the ELCA. She is spending time with her husband, Don, at their lake home and traveling. Future plans include spending time with her two sons and six grandchildren, and writing a collection of stories about her family. 87 and serving as a curriculum coach for visual and media arts. For the past several years, she has served on the Visual Arts Writing Team for the National Coalition for Core Arts Standards. The new national standards were released in March. Hannu and her husband, Patrick Thomson, have a small community supported agriculture (CSA) operation called Uncle Herman’s Farm. They spend their summers growing food and raising honeybees, and currently help feed 15 Duluth, Minn., families. Their goal is to develop a model of a small enterprise fashioned around sustainability and creativity. Andrew Altenburg works for the Bank of Tokyo as an associate events manager. During the past nine years, he has produced and emceed 450 installments of his weekly fundraising event, The Will Clark Show. Recently, he was honored for his fundraising by the Gay/ Lesbian Anti Violence Project (2012), acknowledged by United for the Ride (2013), and knighted by New York’s Imperial Court (2013). He continues to officiate mainly—but not exclusively—same-sex weddings. Jump for joy with him at jumpingforjoy.net. Jennifer Grimm recently performed in Theater Latté Da’s Steerage Song and in Words By… at the Park Square Theatre. 06 Sara Schlipp-Riedel was promoted to Alumni Relations Program Director at Augsburg College in 2013. ie augPg SHOTS SNA 99 Mark Joseph and his wife, Danielle, welcomed their second child, a daughter, on April 30, 2013. Her name is Emily Renee Joseph and she joins big sister Ella (age 3) at home. Spring 2014 29 auggie SNAPSHOTS Send us your news and photos Tell us about the news in your life, your new job, move, marriage, and births. Don’t forget to send photos! (Digital photos must be at least 300 dpi or a 1MB file.) For news of a death, printed notice is required, e.g., an obituary, funeral notice, or program from a memorial service. Send your news items, photos, or change of address by mail to: Augsburg Now Class Notes, Augsburg College, CB 146, 2211 Riverside Ave., Minneapolis, MN 55454, or email alumni@augsburg.edu. You can also submit news at augsburg.edu/alumni. _________________________________________________ Full name 01 Hilary English Crook and her husband, Jacob Seljan, welcomed Britton Samuel Seljan on September 26. 04 Dayle VanderLeest and Karley Kielty ’06 welcomed their son, Jack, on September 30. _________________________________________________ Maiden name _________________________________________________ Class year or last year attended _________________________________________________ Street address _________________________________________________ City, State, ZIP code Is this a new address? q Yes q No _________________________________________________ Home telephone 05 Laree (Lother) Schouweiler opened Reefuel, the first indoor cycling and yoga studio in Decorah, Iowa. 06 Belinda (Painschab) Estrem and Andrew Estrem welcomed Allison Jo Estrem on March 24, 2013. _________________________________________________ Email Okay to publish your email address? q Yes q No _________________________________________________ Employer _________________________________________________ Position _________________________________________________ Work telephone Is spouse also a graduate of Augsburg College? q Yes q No If yes, class year_____________________________________ _________________________________________________ Spouse’s name (include maiden name, if applicable) 07 Carolyn (Mollner) Mason married Justin Mason on September 1 at Faith Lutheran Church in Forest Lake, Minn. Bridesmaids included Augsburg alumnae from 2007, Beth Chalstrom, Sarah Pahl, and Jenn Oliver. Carolyn is the daughter of Joe ’75 and Nancy Mollner ’75, and granddaughter of John Soli ’54. Your news: _________________________________________________ _________________________________________________ _________________________________________________ q I know a student who is interested in attending Augsburg. 30 Augsburg Now In memoriam Thora O. (Torvick) Anderson ’39, Fergus Falls, Minn., age 98, on January 12. Edith A. (Sorem) Gudim ’52, Mayville, N.Dak., age 82, on October 11. Eleanor R. (Ortonstone) Gustafson ’40, Brainerd, Minn., age 95, on January 17. Marvin L. Hagen ’53, St. Paul, age 84, on November 29. Arlene (Olson) Borgendale ’44, Chandler, Ariz., age 92, on September 16. James D. Bartsch ’45, Charleston, W.Va., age 92, on December 24. Orrin O. Agrimson ’46, Vancouver, Wash., age 90, on September 2. Glen M. Springer ’46, Barron, Wis., age 90, on October 30. Carol J. (Ysteboe) Lindsay ’47, Dilworth, Minn., age 86, on January 4. Shirley J. (Vance) Menzel ’48, Spearfish, S.Dak., age 91, on October 20. Nathalie M. (Anderson) Peterson ’48, Bloomington, Minn., age 87, on September 1. Ruby A. (Johnson) Sharp ’53, Minneapolis, age 83, on January 5. Audrey E. (Knudson) Boettcher ’54, Suamico, Wis., age 81, on November 2. Gerald D. Baxter ’56, Bellevue, Neb., age 79, on October 24. Peggy-Joyce (Sorenson) Grable ’57, College Place, Wash., age 78, on November 9. Norman R. Matson ’57, Evanston, Ill., age 78, on January 12. Albert N. Kemmer ’59, Eagan, Minn., age 75, on November 6. Helen J. Bergan ’61, Las Cruces, N.Mex., age 76, on September 6. Stephen A. Nelson ’69, Edina, Minn., age 67, on September 5. Debra K. (Chase) Anderson ’77, Onamia, Minn., age 59, on December 19. Peder J. Wilcox ’49, Bloomington, Minn., age 87, on December 10. Philip S. Johnson ’79, Ashland, Wis., age 58, on October 4. Roy A. Bogen ’50, Bloomington, Minn., age 86, on December 26. Thomas S. McCleery ’87, Eden Prairie, Minn., age 49, on July 4. Robert E. Paulson ’50, Crystal, Minn., age 86, on December 2. Matthew E. Smith ’02, Minneapolis, age 51, on April 9, 2013. Robert “Bob” V. Ryan ’50, East Helena, Mont., age 85, on December 18. Laura A. Peterson ’04, St. Cloud, Minn., age 31, on December 31. Virginia “Ginny” L. (Thompson) Smith ’50, Hendricks, Minn., age 85, on January 1. Clarice E. (Glamm) Madsen ’51, Kasson, Minn., age 85, on October 31. Celia J. (Hanson) Burk ’52, Fargo, N.Dak., age 86, on September 24. Adjunct Psychology Faculty Member Megan Shroat Linda K. Johnson ’70, Sarasota, Fla., age 64, on September 15. William “Bun” W. Fischer ’49, Barrett, Minn., age 92, on October 21. Gretchen M. Myers ’05, Waconia, Minn., age 37, on January 14. Associate Professor of Social Work Annette Gerten, Inver Grove Heights, Minn., age 52, on December 31. Adjunct Psychology Faculty Member Megan Shroat, Minneapolis, age 38, on February 6. The “In Memoriam” alumni listings in this publication include notifications received before January 31. Annette Gerten, 52, a passionate and valued member of the social work faculty and the Augsburg community, passed away in late December from an aggressive cancer. Her time with us and our students was a blessing we will long remember and greatly miss. Her colleagues in the Social Work Department said Gerten was an innovative teacher, a tireless collaborator, and an incurable knitter. She dedicated her whole heart to her students and to her colleagues, serving as a Fellow with the Center for Teaching and Learning, on the Committee for Tenure and Promotion, as assessment director for the social work program, and as field placement coordinator for undergraduate social work students. “As she did with yarn so beautifully and creatively, she wove us all together more tightly centered on the important work of serving others...What a good mother, social worker, educator, and human being! May we carry on in her hopes and dreams as her spirit lives in our hearts.” –Anthony Bibus, professor emeritus, Social Work Department Courtesy photo Ruth C. (Anderson) Blanshan ’44, Green Bay, Wis., age 91, on October 29. Courtesy photo Associate Professor of Social Work Annette Gerten Megan Shroat, 38, a long-time adjunct faculty member in the Psychology Department, passed away in February. An accomplished academician as well as a gifted teacher, she was deeply connected and committed to the fabric and mission of Augsburg. She also was a strong advocate of Augsburg’s StepUP® program for students in recovery and shared the College’s commitment to making higher education accessible to diverse groups of students. She was willing to listen to her students, their opinions, and even their struggles, but was also not afraid to challenge them to dig deeper and achieve more. “I have had students tell me that Megan was the reason [they] chose to major in psychology and pursue a profession dedicated to improving the lives of others. Her example, her presence, her genuine love for students and their growth had this impact. She taught not simply to impart knowledge but to change lives.” –Scott Washburn, assistant director, StepUP Spring 2014 31 LOSAR Tibetan New Year Celebration AUGSBURG WAS THE SITE OF A HISTORIC EVENT March 2 when it hosted the Tibetan American Foundation of Minnesota’s Losar celebration in Si Melby Hall. His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama presided over this Tibetan New Year ceremony—the first time he observed the holiday in the western hemisphere. Sitting on the floor and filling the bleachers, more than 2,500 guests packed Augsburg’s gymnasium, which had been transformed (literally) overnight from the site of a wrestling tournament to an ornately decorated space. After the ceremony and the departure of attending dignitaries—including Augsburg College President Paul Pribbenow and Abigail Pribbenow, Minneapolis Mayor Betsy Hodges, and U.S. representatives Keith Ellison and Betty McCollum—guests continued the festivities with traditional music, dancing, and food—rice, jerky, deep-fried pastries, dumplings, butter tea, and more. Dozens of Augsburg staff, students, and volunteers worked the event, demonstrating how Augsburg lives out its commitment to hospitality. LAURA SWANSON 32 EXPERIENCE AUGSBURG NOW GET THE ENHANCED, INTERACTIVE VERSION OF AUGSBURG NOW ON YOUR IPAD! THE IPAD EDITION OFFERS: • Exclusive slideshows and videos • Captivating animation • Access to additional content available via Augsburg Now web extras • Links to the web for more information • Tap and scroll navigation • Social media engagement Simply search for “Augsburg Now” in the Apple App Store and download for free. Augsburg Now iPad Edition Support for Android and Amazon tablets coming soon! Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Twin Cities, MN Permit No. 2031 Photo by Richard Tsong-Taatarii, Star Tribune 2211 Riverside Avenue Minneapolis, MN 55454 Tibetan New Year Three Auggies, all sisters, participated in the historic Tibetan New Year celebration held at Augsburg College in March. [L to R]: Tenzin Dolsel ’16, a master of social work student; Dechen Dolma ’16, who is pursuing a bachelor of science in nursing degree; and Kalsang Chodon ’15, a master of business administration student. Chodon served as a volunteer for the event, working in one of the VIP reception rooms for the Tibetan American Foundation of Minnesota. See page 32 for more about the celebration or scan the QR code to see event photos.
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Title: Augsburg Now Spring 2013: Auggies Love Life In The City
Collection: Alumni Magazine Collection
Search Result: Twin Cities urban anchors Nobel Peace Prize Forum 2013 Physician assistant program success Getting social with Auggies auggies LOVE LIFE IN THE city SPRING 2013 | VOL. 75, NO. 2 inside AUGSBURG NOW $10 MILLION GIFT ONE GIANT LEAP FOR AUGSBURG In early April, Augsburg College was hono...
Show more Twin Cities urban anchors Nobel Peace Prize Forum 2013 Physician assistant program success Getting social with Auggies auggies LOVE LIFE IN THE city SPRING 2013 | VOL. 75, NO. 2 inside AUGSBURG NOW $10 MILLION GIFT ONE GIANT LEAP FOR AUGSBURG In early April, Augsburg College was honored with a $10 million, unrestricted gift from a 1965 alumnus. The funds will be used for a new academic building that will house the College’s science, business, and religion programs. Visit Inside Augsburg to learn more: IN THIS ISSUE inside.augsburg.edu. Features Departments 6 Getting social with Auggies | COMPILED BY STEPHANIE WEISS 8 Nobel Peace Prize Forum 12 Urban anchors | BY JAY WALLJASPER 18 Physician assistant program success | BY LAURA SWANSON 20 Drawing from experience | BY LAURA SWANSON 2 Around the Quad | 5 My Auggie experience All photos by Stephen Geffre unless otherwise indicated. 11 Auggies on the ﬁeld | 16 Auggie voices 21 Alumni news | 24 Alumni class notes 28 It takes an AAuggie Vice President of Marketing and Communication Rebecca John rjohn@augsburg.edu Notes from President Pribbenow Doing the work Campus is still buzzing with excitement about the generous $10 million donation that will support the Center for Science, Business, and Religion (see opposite page). This unprecedented gift profoundly honors the important work we do at Augsburg College, and it builds on a growing trend of external recognition for the role Augsburg plays in our community. Another testament to Augsburg’s value was earning the National Society for Experiential Education’s 2012 William M. Burke Presidential Award for Excellence in Experiential Education this past fall (see “Around the Quad” in the fall 2012 Augsburg Now). The award honors the College’s long-standing commitment to experiential learning—reaching across decades from the legends of our faculty, including Joel Torstenson, Vern Bloom, Garry Hesser, Mary Kingsley, Frankie Shackelford, and countless others, to a newer generation of teachers and scholars who come to Augsburg intent on ensuring that this distinctive educational experience will continue for future generations. I am proud to be their partner in this important work and to tell their stories far and wide. Augsburg’s commitment to engaging in and learning from the world is one that the College has sustained even through very difﬁcult times. Four years ago, when Augsburg student Ahmednur Ali was fatally shot as he left the Brian Coyle Community Center where he was tutoring Somali junior high students, was one of those times—a time of immense sadness that challenged our mission and character as a College dedicated to serving our neighbors. It is fair to say that fear and anxiety could have led us to pull back from our community, but that is not what Augsburg did. Certainly we took the time we needed to heal, but then we stood together and recognized that our work in the neighborhood— work that is at the heart of our academic mission— was more important than ever, and that it was critical for us to return to our work so that our entire neighborhood might be safe, healthy, and prosperous. And that—I am proud to say—is what we did. We Creative Associate-Editorial Wendi Wheeler ’06 wheelerw@augsburg.edu Integrated Communication Specialist Laura Swanson swansonl@augsburg.edu Creative Director formed a neighborhood partnership to address security and economic development and infrastructure needs. We forged additional partnerships with neighborhood groups and community agencies. And we spent time together, doing the work of improving our community. Today, I can ﬁrmly attest that our neighborhood is safer, stronger, more vibrant, and more united than ever before. That, to me, is what our commitment to experiential learning is meant to achieve: education for our students, of course, and also a safer and more just community for all of us who live and work here. Each fall, I offer our incoming students a simple message about “what is required of them” as they join our community. One of those requirements, I tell them, is to “do the work.” Yes, the work assigned to them, but even more so, the work that they discern and pursue as important and meaningful. Our mission at Augsburg—“to educate students to be informed citizens, thoughtful stewards, critical thinkers, and responsible leaders”—is not just a set of nice aspirations, but a challenge to all of us to do the work that the world so needs done. This issue of Augsburg Now includes many examples of the work our students and alumni do—on campus and in the world. I couldn’t be more proud of our commitment to real-world experiences—a commitment at the heart of our mission. Auggies take their studies out into the world and enrich both their learning and the world around us. Our location, our active and highly connected faculty, our dedicated and generous donors, our commitment to linking the liberal arts and professional studies, and the important role Augsburg plays in the Twin Cities and around the world—all of these provide our students with experiences that deepen their learning and their preparedness for life beyond college. That’s good for our students, and it’s good for the communities where Auggies live and work. PAUL C. PRIBBENOW, PRESIDENT Kathy Rumpza ’05 MAL rumpza@augsburg.edu Senior Creative Associate-Design Jen Nagorski ’08 nagorski@augsburg.edu Photographer Stephen Geffre geffre@augsburg.edu Director of News and Media Services Stephanie Weiss weisss@augsburg.edu Production Manager/Now Online Mark Chamberlain chamberm@augsburg.edu Senior Director of Alumni and Constituent Relations Kim Stone stonek@augsburg.edu www.augsburg.edu Augsburg Now is published by Augsburg College 2211 Riverside Ave. Minneapolis, MN 55454 Opinions expressed in Augsburg Now do not necessarily reﬂect ofﬁcial College policy. ISSN 1058-1545 Send address corrections to: Advancement Services CB 142 Augsburg College 2211 Riverside Ave. Minneapolis, MN 55454 langemo@augsburg.edu Email: now@augsburg.edu quad around the MASTER OF FINE ARTS Photo by Natasha D’Schommer in Creative Writing SCHOLARS at the Capitol During February, McNair Scholars Charles Olson ’13 [pictured above] and Roseanna Benser ’13 represented Augsburg at the Minnesota Private College Scholars at the Capitol research poster session. Olson, a biopsychology major, presented the research he conducted with biology assistant professor David Crowe on brain activity during perception. Benser, a sociology major, shared an analysis of audience perception during stand-up comedy performances, research she conducted with sociology professor James Vela-McConnell. This annual event, sponsored by the Minnesota Private College Council, highlighted the research of undergraduate students from 15 Minnesota colleges and universities. Augsburg College is accepting applications for its new, low-residency Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing. The program initially will offer four concentration areas: fiction, creative nonfiction, poetry, and screenwriting. The twoyear program features an annual 10-day summer residency, one-on-one work with mentors, a student-to-mentor ratio of five to one, and engaging online classroom sessions. This program, the only one of its kind in the region, will be taught by distinguished Augsburg faculty and visiting writers. To find out more about the MFA program, go to augsburg.edu/mfa. CONNECT STROMMEN SPEAKER SERIES 2 Augsburg Now The Clair and Gladys Strommen Executive Speaker Series at Augsburg College, which brings local business leaders to campus to share insights and expertise, kicked off in November with Sally Smith [pictured at left], president and CEO of Buffalo Wild Wings. Smith, who joined the company as chief financial officer in 1994 when it was a chain of only 35 restaurants, talked of establishing the infrastructure needed to create the nation’s fastest-growing restaurant chain. The company now has nearly 850 restaurants in 48 states and Canada. In February, Auggies heard from Chris Killingstad, the president and CEO of Tennant Company. Killingstad described how Tennant is pursuing its vision—through product innovation and employee engagement— to become a global leader in chemical-free cleaning and other technologies. Killingstad joined Tennant, a world-leading manufacturer of cleaning solutions, floor coatings, and industrial equipment, in 2002 and became CEO in 2005. Augsburg named a“Top 5” theater program outside of New York Backstage magazine’s 2012 Fall College Guide listed Augsburg College among the top five U.S. institutions for theater majors who wish to continue their studies professionally. “In our Theater Arts Department, students connect with professional artists in the city while they delve into their theater courses,” said Darcey Engen ’88, Augsburg College associate professor and chair of theater arts. Backstage, a theater publication in existence for more than 50 years, recommended an Augsburg education for “enterprising, driven students looking to climb the [professional] ladder in double time.” The article described the three academic theater concentrations offered by the College, which include performance, directing/ dramaturgy/playwriting, and design/technical. The article also highlighted Augsburg’s course offerings and emphasized the theater program’s proximity to the renowned, Minneapolis-based Guthrie Theater. FIFTH AUGGIE WINS prestigious Milken Award Since 2004, five Augsburg College alumni have won the prestigious Milken Educator Award. Steve Abenth ’04, a fourth-grade teacher and choir director at Highland Park Elementary in St. Paul, was awarded the Milken Educator Award for the State of Minnesota this past November. Abenth earned his bachelor’s degree in elementary education through Augsburg’s adult undergraduate program. The $25,000 award was established in 1985 by the Milken Family Foundation to recognize excellence in early- to mid-career educators. Other Auggies who have won the award include Jacki Brickman ’97, Tracey Cross ’01, Maggie Knutson ’91, and Kelly Woods ’98. To read more about Augsburg’s Milken Educator Award winners, go to augsburg.edu/now. To read the full article, go to augsburg.edu/now. Norwegian parlimentarian visits Augsburg Augsburg College hosted Norwegian parliamentarian Marianne Aasen on her first trip to Minnesota. Augsburg President Paul C. Pribbenow invited Aasen to visit the College to further her understanding of U.S. higher education and to explore topics central to her vocation. Her trip included meeting dozens of Auggies, including those from Norway, students in an environmental politics class, interns to the Nobel Peace Prize Forum (hosted and organized by the College), and Augsburg’s Peace Scholars. Aasen, far right, meets with Augsburg students. Spring 2013 3 AUGGIES SHINE at college film festival Three Auggies were recognized for outstanding work as filmmakers at the 2012 Student Film Festival hosted by the Associated Colleges of the Twin Cities (ACTC). • Carly (Lassegard) Johnson ’11 won Best of Show for her film Angel. She earned her bachelor of arts degree in film and English. CONVOCATION SERIES 2012-13 BOLD VISIONS quad around the The Humanities and Fine Arts Convocation in November featured Dan Phillips, a designer and builder of recycled housing. Phillips also is founder of the Phoenix Commotion, a building initiative that was created to demonstrate that salvaged materials can be and are viable building materials. In January, a group of performers at the Martin Luther King, Jr. Convocation explored the legacy of King through song, movement, images, and writings by the civil rights leader. The performers were led by T. Mychael Rambo, an accomplished singer-songwriter, playwright, and arts educator. The Batalden Seminar in Applied Ethics in February welcomed Susan E. Pick, professor of psychology at National University of Mexico. Pick shared insights on ways the “Human Capabilities Approach” was used to develop programs that reached more than 19 million people in Mexico who became agents of change in their own lives and communities in areas of citizenship, development, education, and health. The approach also was used in 14 other Latin American countries. Augsburg’s Convocation Series is a cross-disciplinary speaker series that explores ideas and thoughts around the impact each person can have in a world of nearly seven billion people. To find out more about the Augsburg Convocation series, go to augsburg.edu/convo. MANY VOICES • Casey Bargsten ’14 won for Best Experimental Film. Bargsten is studying film at Augsburg. • Joe Funk ’11 won the Technical Award. He earned his bachelor of arts degree in film and theater arts. The ACTC Student Film Festival celebrated more than 60 short films including narratives, documentaries, experimental films, and avant-garde films. All the films were created during the 2011-12 academic year. Augsburg students submitted work from virtually every class offered in the College’s film studies program, said Wesley Ellenwood, an Augsburg communication studies instructor. Ellenwood, who serves on the ACTC Student Film Festival committee, said the festival is a chance for students to have their work formally presented in a theater of more than 200 seats. 4 Augsburg Now INTERACTIVE ART Students in Graphic Design I and II courses during the fall semester researched the history, philosophy, and practice of the Augsburg Central Health Commons and the Health Commons at Dar Ul-Quba. The students learned that for many of the 20,000 people seen by the nurses every year at the Commons, a pair of clean socks can be very important. The students worked with assistant art professor Christopher Houltberg to host “Health Commons: Exhibition and Sock Exchange,” an interactive art exhibit where viewers could take an original print home if they donated a clean pair of socks to the Health Commons. To read the full article, go to augsburg.edu/now. my auggie experience Have a dream. Focus on key priorities. Recognize the importance of the team. Never give up. THESE ARE THE FOUR LIFE LESSONS Mike Good ’71 shared with Augsburg alumni at the Eye Opener breakfast in January, a talk that tied together key themes of Good’s journey to Augsburg and back again. It started at Fridley High School where, Good said, his dream was to become a wrestling state champion. He posted a sign above his bedroom door—“SC” for “state champion”—to remind him every day of his goal and the importance of working toward it. In his senior year, his high school won the state championship as a team. Individually, though, Good lost in the semi-finals, ultimately placing third—a result that was critical to the overall team’s victory. Listening to Good recount the story, it’s clear that the team accomplishment is as important to him as any individual title might have been. Have a dream. Focus on priorities. Recognize the importance of the team. At Augsburg, Good said, he was passionate about racial justice and freedom from hunger. A sociology major and physical education minor, he also remained passionate about wrestling. His new goal: to be Augsburg’s first All-American wrestler. Again, as Good recounted the outcomes of this dream, he not only reported his own success in winning an All-American title, but with equal relish named several of his teammates—Daryl Miller ’69, Ron Johnson ’72, Pat Marcy ’72—who also earned All-American titles during their time at Augsburg. Dream. Focus. Team. When Good got into real estate, he brought this same focus and drive to his leadership. By 1998, he was executive vice president and chief operating officer for NRT Incorporated, responsible for the oversight of more than 1,000 offices nationally. Then, in 2004, when his parent company, Cendant Corporation, bought the rights to use the Sotheby’s brand, he was tapped to serve as chief executive officer of Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates, Inc. No one ever had built a luxury real estate franchise before, Good said. So, early on, many of the premier independent real estate companies in the U.S. were not interested in joining Sotheby’s. Instead of worrying about that, Good focused his team on building a unique value proposition for Sotheby’s real estate, growing the franchise to 650 offices in 45 countries. In the end, many of those same independent real estate companies who said, “no thanks,” at the beginning, joined the Sotheby’s operation and, according to Good, dramatically grew their sales within the first few years of taking on the Sotheby’s name. Focus on priorities. Recognize the importance of the team. Never give up. This past January, Good retired from Sotheby’s and, with his wife, Ann, moved back to Minnesota. He also just completed four years as chair of the Augsburg College Board of Regents, where he has served since 2001. So now he has taken on a new challenge: serving as campaign chair of Augsburg’s capital campaign for the Center for Science, Business, and Religion. In his January talk, Good acknowledged that the campaign has moved forward more slowly than desired but, he said, “Nothing happens without belief.” Today, Good has another sign above his door: “CSBR. Believe.” Another dream, another focus. A team, Good said, that will include alumni and others who can and will make a significant impact on the College. And, even if it takes longer than expected, Good said, he is in this for the long haul. “I believe in this college,” Good said. “I believe in what it does for young men and women, helping them grapple with the issues of today and come out as leaders.” To learn more about Augsburg’s capital campaign for the Center for Science, Business, and Religion, contact Heather Riddle, vice president of institutional advancement, 612-330-1177, riddle@augsburg.edu. I couldn’t be more proud to represent @AugsburgCollege as a @FulbrightPrgrm scholar in the Czech Republic – @adamspanier Getting Nice day for a bike ride, right @niceridemn? Temps in the single digits, but that’s not too cold for #Auggies. #AuggieCAM SOCIAL with Auggies Drove by @AugsburgCollege today & involuntarily beamed with pride when I saw the “#Auggies We are Called” banners outside Oren. #AuggiePride – @mnemosynekura Members of the Augsburg College community are increasingly turning to social media to get connected and to stay in touch with what is happening on campus. People connecting to the College in social media— Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, or other social media sites—include current students and alumni, faculty and staff, media and policymakers, and people from across the globe. Here’s a snapshot of some of the College’s most established social media channels by number of followers: Facebook: 5,336 JOIN THE CONVERSATION facebook.com/augsburgcollege Twitter: 2,365 @AugsburgCollege LinkedIn: 2,263 linkedin.com/company/augsburg-college Check us out online and on your favorite social media sites. We welcome your comments, tweets, posts, and photographs. facebook.com/augsburgcollege “Like” us and get updates in your Facebook feed. twitter.com/AugsburgCollege Follow @AugsburgCollege on Twitter for information about upcoming events and other news. instagram/AugsburgCollege Get a glimpse into life at Augsburg through our Instagram photo feed. storify.com/AugsburgCollege Check us out on Storfiy to see what’s happening on campus and what students, alumni, and others are saying about their Auggie experience. 6 Augsburg Now WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING TWITTER Found out I could graduate from @AugsburgCollege summa cum laude. My heart is in my throat. It’s a lot of work, but I think I’m gonna try. – @littlelizbeth The college I really want to go to is Augsburg College. – @ThE_KinG_54 So thankful for the tunnels and skyways @AugsburgCollege today! – @jordan_leigh13 Graphic design students @AugsburgCollege met w/@cityof saintpaul staff to discuss concepts for a new stormwater drain stencil #CityLabs – @CityLabsatACTC Accepted into the PA program at Augsburg College! God is faithful! #PAbound – @jennanoonan33 Oh my gosh. The people from Augsburg College were such sweethearts. I love each & every one of y’all. <3 – @amyyvon A big congrats to my son’s college basketball team, they are 7-0. Way to go Augsburg – @sdionyoung WHAT PEOPLE ARE SEEING My research @AugsburgCollege just got accepted for the APA National Conference in Hawaii! (jumps up and down repeatedly) – @LadyChristy So glad I picked Augsburg. Happy kid right thereeee. – @kfec3 INSTAGRAM 1 Getting ready for the 25th @NPPF March 8-10 in Minneapolis! @AugsburgCollege #NPPF #NobelPeacePrize – @LandOLakesInc I am now a college graduate with a Bachelor of Arts degree! #AugsburgCollege #MinneapolisMinnesota – @ZachKim21 Can’t wait to walk with the Class of 2013 in early May. We’re a great class. #Auggies – @WhatAPriss Steve Abenth ’04=5th @AugsburgCollege grad to win prestigious @Milken award for teaching. #WeAreCalled – @Milken To say the #NobelPeacePrizeForum is inspiring is an understatement – @OfficialGNiver 2 3 1 “With one day remaining in January, let’s cheer on the #Auggies who are sticking with their fitness resolutions for the New Year.” #AuggieCAM 1/21/2013 2 “Arianna Genis ’13 received the Spirit of MLK Award at today’s #MLKConvocation.” #WeAreCalled 1/30/2013 3 “Alumni & their families ice skated during the recent #Auggie Night at the Depot. What’s your favorite winter hobby?” #AuggieCAM 1/23/2013 #AUGGIEPRIDE Auggie Eddie Frizell back on campus for Mpls Police Department promotions. He’s now a Deputy Chief! #AuggiePride – @AugsburgCollege Wear pink at Augsburg’s home athletic events this weekend to support the fight against breast cancer! #AuggiePride – @AugsburgAuggies I’ve got big dreams. Augsburg records I’m coming for you at the MIAC championships tomorrow #AuggiePride – @LouLouBell0491 I am soo geeked1 that my school is hosting Omar @Offendum and Brother Ali for the #2NobelPeacePrize. S/O3 to @Augsburg College! #AuggiePride – @LoveLikeHani THE TWEET DEFINED: 1 ➦ geeked = excited 2 # = A hashtag is a word or phrase preceded by a hash mark that’s used to categorize social media posts by topic. 3 S/O = shout out Spring 2013 7 NOBEL PEACE PRIZE FORUM March 8-10, 2013 Augsburg’s Ibrahim Al-Hajiby ’14 [above center] leaves Christensen Center with Nobel Peace Prize Laureate Tawakkol Karman [above right] and Karman’s husband. Al-Hajiby served as Karman’s attaché during her visit to Minnesota for the Nobel Peace Prize Forum. Karman and Al-Hajiby both are from Yemen, and Karman is the youngest person in history to be named a Laureate. Al-Hajiby accompanied Karman to appointments, helped her navigate campus, and became a trusted member of her team while she was at Augsburg. To watch an audio slideshow about Al-Hajiby’s experience, go to augsburg.edu/now. 8 Augsburg Now WE ARE Nobel Peace Prize Laureates Tawakkol Karman [center] and Muhammad Yunus [right] leave Si Melby Hall at Kennedy Center following their addresses to K-12 students at the Nobel Peace Prize Forum Festival. Karman, of Yemen, won the Nobel Prize in 2011 for her work as a journalist and human rights activist. She is called the “Mother of the Arab Spring.” Yunus, who won the Nobel Prize in 2006, is from Bangladesh. He pioneered a form of banking known as “microcredit,” the practice of making very small loans to people with little or no collateral. “The Father of Microcredit,” Yunus founded Grameen Bank to give loans of about $100 each to more than 8.4 million people, 94 percent of whom are women. HIP HOP AND PEACE CALLED TO INSPIRE PEACE Internationally known hip hop artist and activist Brother Ali [above left], of Minneapolis, presented and performed during the Nobel Peace Prize Forum. He was joined by Omar Offendum [above right], a Syrian-American rapper and activist. The two men explored the dynamics of peace and hip hop through songs, poetry, lecture, and dance. The event built upon the success of last year’s “Ethics and Hip Hop” presentation by Dessa, a Minneapolis rapper, singer, and writer. Spring 2013 9 THE 25TH ANNUAL NOBEL PEACE PRIZE FORUM—a conference that celebrates the importance, consequence, and controversy of Nobel Peace Prize Laureates—was March 8-10 in Minneapolis. “This event brings members of the world’s most exclusive club—Nobel Peace Prize Laureates—to campus,” said Maureen Reed, executive director of the Nobel Peace Prize Forum, which is housed at Augsburg College. “Students, faculty, and staff have the opportunity to interact with people who fundamentally have changed and are changing the world.” More than 6,000 people attended throughout the three days of the event, which explored issues related to peacemaking, world security, and global stability. One of the 2011 Nobel laureates, Tawakkol Karman of Yemen, spoke on Global Day, and 2006 laureate Muhammad Yunus of Bangladesh spoke on Business Day. Dr. Paul Farmer, chair of global health and social medicine at Harvard Medical School and cofounder of Partners in Health, spoke to a packed house [left] on Science and Health Day. In addition to offering inspiration from global peacemakers, the Forum provides an opportunity for participants to understand why individuals “halfway across the globe” should care about one another. “One of the mission commitments of Augsburg is to educate students to be informed global citizens,” said Augsburg College President Paul Pribbenow. “By bringing the world to campus, we also get to know our neighbors, which is fundamental to our identity as a college of the Lutheran church.” Watch the laureate addresses and other keynote presentations from the Forum at nobelpeaceprizeforum.org. To see more photos from the Forum, go to augsburg.edu/now. LEAD SPONSOR MAJOR SPONSORS SCIENCE AND HEALTH DAY SPONSOR GLOBAL DAY SPONSOR EVENT SPONSORS Jeanne M. Voigt Foundation US Embassy-Oslo Winds of Peace Foundation MEDIA SPONSOR DONORS Global Spotlight-GPS Alliance HealthPartners Liv Dahl Fund of the Saint Paul Foundation 10 Augsburg Now auggies on the field Steward, athlete, scholar If Paul Hallgren ’13 isn’t at Parade Stadium, home of the Auggie baseball team, he might be in Augsburg’s Writing Lab helping a student with a paper. He could be studying in the Honors program lounge or having a high-minded discussion in the Quad with colleagues in the Philosophy Club. And if he’s not in the aforementioned places, it’s possible that he is at an event representing the College as an Augsburg Steward. This busy outfielder and double major in philosophy and English is able to balance his studies with his other activities and responsibilities in part because he’s bright and talented, but he also gives a lot of credit to his coaches and professors. “I love that I can have direct correspondence with my professors and that they know me and know I’m involved on campus,” Hallgren said. “They are always willing to make sure I have what I need.” Hallgren was able to meet some of his future professors when he was recruited by Coach Keith Bateman to play baseball and came to Augsburg for a campus visit. “I felt that they were genuinely interested in me in ways that professors at a large institution might not be,” Hallgren said. Hallgren has played with the Auggie baseball team since his first year at Augsburg and said that being an athlete with off-season practices helped him adjust to the rigor of a college schedule. “I was responsible for putting my schedule in order and making sure I got everything done,” he said. If not for athletics, Hallgren supposed he might have been a bit lazy. But “lazy” is one word most would not use to describe Hallgren. During his first year at Augsburg, he provided research assistance to professor Larry Crockett for Crockett’s paper on pragmatism, and last year he spent a semester in Scotland studying English modernism and Scottish literature. Through the Augsburg Stewards program, Hallgren learns leadership and networking skills by connecting alumni to the College and working with current students to encourage their continued involvement with Augsburg after graduation. As a tutor in the Writing Lab, Hallgren helps undergraduate and graduate students with all stages of the writing process and in all academic areas. “I really enjoy reading others’ papers and helping them learn how to convey their thoughts in a coherent way,” Hallgren said. “I hope they come away from a session feeling more confident in themselves and in their ability to write.” Hallgren said these extra activities have shaped him and his Augsburg experience. “I feel like I’m a much more well-rounded individual as a result of participating in other activities.” This spring, find Hallgren and the Auggie baseball team at Parade Stadium, 400 Kenwood Parkway in Minneapolis. The regular season begins in late March and ends in early May. And see the new baseball dugout built with donations from the Augsburg A-Club, a service organization of former and current Augsburg College athletes and friends of the College. e WENDI WHEELER ’06 Spring 2013 11 AN INCREASINGLY GLOBALIZED ECONOMY leaves communities everywhere anxious about losing good jobs. Even the prosperous Twin Cities is no exception, as the closing of the St. Paul Ford plant and the transfer of Delta Air Lines employees show. It’s bad news for the whole region when jobs leave, including local institutions like Augsburg that benefit from being located in a thriving community. An increase in unemployment, poverty, and social dislocation in neighborhoods surrounding the campus would raise new challenges for the College in attracting students, faculty, and contributions. But there’s good news, too. Some of the Twin Cities’ biggest employers aren’t going anywhere. How can we be sure? Because “anchor” institutions like colleges, medical centers, and cultural institutions serve the people of a particular area and are in fact defined by their location and the people they serve. For example, try to imagine Fairview Hospital moving to Beijing or Augsburg to New Orleans. They would not be the same in another place because they 12 Augsburg Now anchor the communities in which they are located. Many communities coast-to-coast see these “eds and meds” institutions as crucial, not just for keeping jobs but for keeping neighborhoods vibrant. Anchor institutions are the largest employer in 66 of the 100 largest U.S. core cities, according to a study from the Initiative for a Competitive Inner City. “Colleges and hospitals are embedded in their community and have a real stake in seeing that it thrives,” explained Augsburg President Paul Pribbenow, who is chair of an ambitious new anchor initiative along the light rail Central Corridor. Large-scale anchor strategies have been proven to work under rigorous conditions in Philadelphia, Detroit, Cleveland, Baltimore, and Syracuse—where economic challenges far surpass those here in the Twin Cities. But anchor strategies are not confined to cities with dire social and economic conditions. A set of Boston hospitals has established successful training, employment, and housing programs to boost surrounding neighborhoods; other projects are underway in Phoenix, Atlanta, and Washington, D.C. Augsburg stands out as a leader in the Twin Cities’ anchor institution strategy—thanks to longstanding programs that partner students and faculty with the community to increase public safety, boost local education, provide health care services, promote economic development, work with immigrant groups, train neighborhood youth, improve the urban environment, and feed people in need. Steve Peacock, Augsburg’s director of community relations who works closely with many of the projects, said the programs fit with Augsburg’s distinctive mission as an urban liberal arts college. “It’s one of the things that distinguishes us. We offer an opportunity for students to be engaged in the neighborhood. For us, it’s not just a charitable activity. It creates shared value.” Augsburg recently became one of a dozen anchor institutions—ranging from Allina and HealthPartners to the University of Minnesota—that were first to sign on to the Central Corridor Anchor Partnership, a joint effort funded by the McKnight Foundation to strengthen communities along the light rail line between downtown Minneapolis and St. Paul. Pribbenow pointed out the immense economic and civic potential of nine medical facilities and seven colleges in the corridor that together account for 67,000 jobs, 115,000 students, and 100 current or planned capital improvement projects totaling $5 billion. Eric Muschler, the McKnight Foundation program officer involved with the project, noted that Augsburg’s long involvement in the West Bank community offered inspiration for the overall Anchor Partnership. “[Augsburg IN THE CENTRAL CORRIDOR, AUGSBURG IS ONE OF 9 MEDICAL FACILITIES 7 COLLEGES AND THAT TOGETHER ACCOUNT FOR 100 67,000 JOBS, 115,000 STUDENTS, AND CURRENT OR PLANNED CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS TOTALING has] been thinking about this longer,” he said. “This is not do-gooderism,” Pribbenow stressed. “This is moving beyond the charity model. We have real interests that are at play with the neighborhood. For us, this is about our students. It contributes to their education, their safety, and a vital urban environment where they live. This is not just what we give to the community, it’s about our shared interests and mutual benefits.” Five years ago, Augsburg took a leading role in the creation of the CedarRiverside Partnership, where stakeholders including West Bank businesses, Fairview Clinics-Riverside, University of Minnesota, neighborhood organizations, the City of Minneapolis, and Hennepin County explore new ways of working together in the neighborhood. Pribbenow currently serves as the partnership’s chair. “At first the group was all about safety,” Pribbenow said, noting how partners raised funds to increase security at a community center, supported a neighborhood crime prevention group, and helped plan a community safety center that opened at a nearby housing complex. “If you talk to the police department, they will tell you that all of this work by many institutions and community organizations has improved the safety and vitality of the neighborhood in a surprisingly short amount of time.” That initial success showed everyone what could be accomplished cooperatively. The group’s attention then widened to the coming Central Corridor light rail line. Hennepin County Commissioner Peter McLaughlin told the group, “If you get this right, it will undo the damage that was done” when Interstates 94 and 35W essentially walled off Cedar-Riverside from the rest of the city. “This work is about resurrecting a neighborhood,” Pribbenow noted. “Cedar-Riverside could become a destination for the whole region.” That’s also a goal of the Central Corridor Anchor Partnership: to make sure that adjacent neighborhoods capitalize on the transformative benefits of this nearly $1 billion public investment. Pribbenow outlines four major initiatives to strengthen Central Corridor communities, which in turn strengthen anchor institutions such as Augsburg. 1 PROCUREMENT—A Central Corridor Funders Collaborative study found that 16 major anchor institutions already spend more than $300 million $5 BILLION in goods and services from neighborhood businesses. Finding practical ways to increase this local spending—both individually and as a group—makes a good investment, said Augsburg’s Peacock. “Local purchasing benefits the local economy, which means a healthier neighborhood.” When it came time to reupholster the chairs in Hoversten Chapel, for instance, Augsburg found a small Native Americanowned business in the nearby Phillips neighborhood to do the job. A class of Augsburg MBA students is now investigating more opportunities on this front. 2 WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT— The same principle of keeping resources circulating throughout the community applies to the goal of hiring more neighborhood residents at anchor institutions. Of course, as Peacock noted, this depends on finding people with the right skills. “How do we connect residents to the training and certification programs that are needed for the jobs?” That’s where Augsburg’s nursing and physician assistant programs come in, preparing young people to work at the nine medical facilities along the light rail line. For several years, Augsburg has gone one step further in developing the future health care workforce by hosting Spring 2013 13 “THIS IS NOT DO-GOODERISM,” PRESIDENT PAUL PRIBBENOW STRESSED. “THIS IS MOVING BEYOND THE CHARITY MODEL. WE HAVE REAL INTERESTS THAT ARE AT PLAY WITH THE NEIGHBORHOOD. FOR US, THIS IS ABOUT OUR STUDENTS. IT CONTRIBUTES TO THEIR EDUCATION, THEIR SAFETY, AND A VITAL URBAN ENVIRONMENT WHERE THEY LIVE. THIS IS NOT JUST WHAT WE GIVE TO THE COMMUNITY, IT’S ABOUT OUR SHARED INTERESTS AND MUTUAL BENEFITS.” Urban Scrubs Camp (in conjunction with Fairview and the state-funded HealthForce Minnesota) to excite young people about careers in health care. Augsburg’s many community partners invite interested high school students to spend a week on campus in order to get a feel for work in these fast-expanding fields and for college life. St. Paul College, at the other end of the Central Corridor, is now adopting the idea. 3 ENGAGED LEARNING—Augsburg holds honors from the National Society for Experiential Education (2012) and the White House’s Presidential Award for Community Service (2010), which demonstrate the College’s leadership in this area. “Since the 1960s, we’ve taken advantage of the city itself as a classroom,” Pribbenow noted. “It’s part of what make us distinctive.” Nursing students, for instance, gain invaluable experience working at the school’s drop-in health centers at Riverside Plaza and Central Lutheran Church. Hundreds of students also have volunteered at the Cedar Riverside Community School, a K-8 charter school at Riverside Plaza, and the Augsburg Fairview Academy public high school in the Phillips neighborhood. All Auggies can be involved with the Campus Kitchen, a student-led project that distributes 2,000 meals a month to homeless shelters, youth programs, and senior and community centers. Similarly, Augsburg’s community garden finds students, community groups, and neighborhood residents growing vegetables side by side. Trinity Lutheran Congregation, which was founded by Norwegian immigrants 140 years ago and today is home to many Eritrean and Ethiopian immigrants, is housed right on campus in a unique arrangement that further strengthens the ties between college and community. Students are involved with the congregation’s tutoring program for immigrants living in Cedar-Riverside and in interfaith collaborations with Augsburg’s many Muslim neighbors. 4 PLACEMAKING—Neighborhoods do not stay vital on economic development alone; a strong sense of place contributes greatly to their success. Augsburg reaches out into the community in many ways to improve the built environment and enhance the distinctive character of the neighborhood. This goal is woven throughout the College’s campus master plan. The Oren Gateway Center, which opens onto Riverside Avenue, is symbolic of the College’s commitment to community connection. Another welcoming gateway is being considered long term for property Augsburg owns on Riverside Avenue on the east side of campus. Riverside Avenue itself underwent a remarkable makeover in the last few years—with improved bike lanes and a new street configuration to calm traffic—thanks in part to the College’s cooperation with the city of Minneapolis. “There are improvements on Riverside that would not be there if we had not sat down with the city and said we wanted them,” Pribbenow said. It is exactly this type of leadership, collaboration, and active engagement in community building that Augsburg and its anchor partners will now extend to the entire Central Corridor region through this innovative new anchor institutions initiative. Jay Walljasper, a senior fellow with Augsburg’s Sabo Center for Citizenship and Learning, specializes in city and community issues. He is author of The Great Neighborhood Book and All That We Share: A Field Guide to the Commons. Read more at jaywalljasper.com. 14 Augsburg Now ANCHOR INSTITUTION STRATEGIES across the United States Augsburg’s recent participation in an “anchor” approach to community revitalization does not rely simply on theory. Large-scale strategies have been tested successfully under rigorous conditions in U.S. cities where economic challenges surpass those in the Twin Cities. CLEVELAND • Anchor institutions teamed up to create a series of worker-owned cooperatives. • Cleveland Clinic, Case Western Reserve University, and University Hospitals will benefit from light rail improvements and a new high-speed bus line. • A growers cooperative was formed to produce local food. A FUTURE PROJECT MAY INCLUDE A TRANSPORTATION COMPANY TO SHUTTLE PATIENTS TO HOSPITALS. PHILADELPHIA • Anchor strategies were pioneered in West Philadelphia. • The University of Pennsylvania redefined its relationship with the community from isolation to interaction. SYRACUSE • The city’s Near Westside, one of the 10 poorest census tracts in the United States, is transforming into a center for technology, design, and art. Successful initiatives included launching an incentive program for workers to live in the area, reviving commercial districts, creating more than 600 jobs, and more. SYRACUSE UNIVERSITY RAISED $ 56 million FOR ITS PLANS TO BETTER CONNECT DOWNTOWN WITH ITS CAMPUS. DETROIT • Housing initiatives transformed an area notorious for abandoned properties into a desirable neighborhood. • Hospitals convinced a medical products vendor to move its distribution center from the suburbs to the city, creating 140 jobs. • The Henry Ford Health System established a five-year program in area high schools that trains and certifies students for jobs in 10 health care occupations. Other communities with anchor initiatives underway: ATLANTA BOSTON CINCINNATI PHOENIX WASHINGTON, D.C. To learn more about anchor initiatives in these communities, go to augsburg.edu/now. Spring 2013 15 auggie voices From Z to A: Zimbabwean student discovers his dream at Augsburg During the 2011 Agre Symposium at Augsburg College, Kirubel Frew ’14 was apprehensive in introducing himself to Peter Agre ’70—the 2003 recipient of the Nobel Prize in Chemistry and the director of the Johns Hopkins Malaria Research Institute. But the conversation between the Auggie and one of the College’s most notable alumni proved to be the first discussion of many. “I happened to mention that I was from Zimbabwe,” Frew recalled. “[Agre] said, ‘Zim? Zim? I love Zim. It’s a beautiful country. I believe Zimbabwe will have a scientific boom within the next decade.’” As an international student, Frew selected Augsburg because of its well-respected science programs and its welcoming staff, which he identified during his college application process. Today he recognizes that the warmth of the Augsburg community extends beyond campus to its alumni network. That’s because what began as a simple chat between Agre and Frew regarding their ties to Zimbabwe matured into a bond through which the Nobel laureate has shaped the career aspirations of one of the College’s standout third-year 16 Augsburg Now chemists. Frew views Agre’s ability to operate a research lab, speak to audiences around the globe, and inspire young scientists as ‘a dream job’ and a goal he could not have identified without studying at Augsburg. “Years ago, I wouldn’t have believed all this was possible,” Frew said. “Meeting a Nobel laureate in chemistry is awesome, and being mentored by him is even more awesome.” This mentorship began when Agre invited Frew to conduct research at the Baltimore-based Johns Hopkins Malaria Research Institute during summer 2012 and to attend the Lindau Meeting of Nobel Laureates in Lindau, Germany, an exclusive annual event that brings together several dozen chemistry and physics laureates and an equal number of student guests. Frew was a fitting choice for these life-changing opportunities because he developed the critical thinking skills that high-level research requires during the summer after his first year at Augsburg. He participated in a 10-week faculty-led research program through the College’s Office of STUUDDEENNT Undergraduate Research and Graduate Opportunity (URGO). “Research is so unscripted and there are so many turns,” said assistant professor of chemistry Z. Vivian Feng, one of Frew’s faculty advisers. Feng presented Frew with the opportunity to conduct a complex proof-of-concept project in which he could demonstrate the feasibility of making a bench-top reactor, a small instrument tied to revolutionary biodiesel experimentation conducted by Augsburg alumnus and businessman Clayton McNeff ’91, chemistry professor emeritus Arlin Gyberg, and Augsburg’s first Rhodes Scholar Brian Krohn ’08. Feng said she knew the research project would be challenging for Frew given his limited experience in the chemistry lab, but she also believed it suited his background in physics and interest in engineering. Frew was determined to independently achieve his goal of modifying the reactor design using his creativity, ingenuity, and knack for problem solving. Frew said his experiences on the Augsburg campus and around the globe have proven so inspiring that he now is determined to continue his science education and align his career path to his vocation. Dixie Shafer, URGO director, sees this objective as a nearperfect fit. She said that from Frew’s first days of research at Augsburg, he has demonstrated a gift for explaining complex scientific processes in terms that an interdisciplinary audience can understand. “He sees communication as one of his life-long missions,” Shafer explained. “He may become a serious scientist and work on issues that are related to policy—realizing that too many people in policy don’t know the science and too many scientists have difficulty communicating with the non-science community … he’d love to be doing what Peter Agre does.” Frew cites Agre’s hard work and intellect as key components in the Nobel laureate’s career success, and the young Auggie is on track to take his Augsburg education to the next level with his own tenacity. Students and alumni from Augsburg’s science and mathematics departments commonly go on to conduct research, attend graduate school, and accept employment at some of the nation’s leading research institutions including Cornell University, Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Lab, Johns Hopkins University, and Yale University, among others. Augsburg is a place for young scientists like Frew to set dreams for the future and lay the educational foundation on which to achieve them. research As spring turns to summer, life on a college campus typically quiets. But for a select group of undergraduate researchers, the summer months are anything but slow. From May to August, Augsburg students perform faculty-led research in the sciences, humanities, and fine arts. Their work is supported by funding from Augsburg’s Undergraduate Research and Graduate Opportunity (URGO) program, the McNair Scholars program, the Sundquist Scholars program, the Northstar STEM Alliance, a NASA Space Physics grant, and the National Science Foundation. To watch audio slide shows featuring Laura Essenburg ’12, Samantha Cantrall ’14, and other summer researchers, go to augsburg.edu/now. ’12 LAURA ESSENBURG Essenburg studied stereotypes and the portrayal of race in college admissions marketing materials. ’14 SAMANTHA CANTRALL Cantrall studied the hip hop protest music inspired by the Arab Spring movement. LAURA SWANSON To watch an audio slideshow in which Frew discusses his URGO research, go to augsburg.edu/now. Spring 2013 17 18 Augsburg Now PHYSICIAN ASSISTANT FIELD SWELLS IN U.S.; AUGSBURG LEADS IN MINNESOTA BY LAURA SWANSON IN JUNE 2012, Forbes named physician assistant studies one of the best master’s degrees for jobs, citing the discipline’s salary and employment outlook in which job opportunities are expected to grow 30 percent by 2020. Physician assistants (PAs) are in demand due to an aging U.S. population, a projected shortage of primary care physicians, and a need for increased access to affordable health care. And—in alignment with health care industry demand—100 percent of Augsburg PA alumni are employed within six months of graduation, according to Dawn Ludwig, the College’s PA program director. Jamie Schneekloth ’11 MPA is one of these graduates. She worked as an emergency room technician and nursing assistant for a half dozen years. After witnessing firsthand the important role PAs play in the health care industry, she gained admittance to the highly competitive Augsburg College PA program. She wanted to earn a well-regarded education in general practice medicine, to expand her earning potential, and to pursue an exceptionally versatile career path. Schneekloth secured her first full-time PA position at La Clinica following her master’s degree completion. “In my day-to-day practice, I manage a number of acute and chronic conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, asthma, and I focus on preventive health,” Schneekloth said. “I perform procedures as needed, such as joint injections … and laceration repair.” As a Spanish-major-turned-physician-assistant, she was a natural fit for employment at the St. Paul-based community health center that provides multicultural and multilingual treatment to immigrant and low-income communities. “PAs are a cost-effective way to deliver quality health care in primary care areas,” Ludwig said. “The licensure of a physician assistant is dependent upon the practice of the physician, which means physicians can delegate certain responsibilities to the PA to help them run their practices.” Augsburg began its PA program in 1995 and during 2001 became the first college in Minnesota to offer the Physician Assistant Certificate along with the Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies—a degree program that prepares mid-level health care providers. As a PA, Schneekloth is licensed to examine, treat, educate, and write prescriptions for patients while under the supervision of a physician. “The profession has exploded in the past 15 years,” Ludwig said. Schneekloth completed the Augsburg College PA program in three years. Current Augsburg students earn a PA certificate and a master’s degree in 31 months. The program’s duration is a fraction of the length of medical school, which requires a commitment of at least seven years. Like med students, Augsburg College PA students enroll in lecture courses emphasizing science and diseases, then complete 2,500 hours of clinical rotations during the second half of their education. These rotations are “key to what makes you confident in providing quality care for a patient,” Schneekloth said. PAs also are generalists who can easily change medical disciplines. “I liked that the career was versatile,” Schneekloth added. “I could work in any specialty, as opposed to physicians who have to maintain the particular career path that they chose in residency for their entire career.” The Augsburg PA program promotes a commitment to lifelong personal and professional development and has a “strong reputation in the country,” according to Ludwig. “That leads to high-quality people applying, which means we are selective about the candidates we admit, which then leads to high-quality graduates.” DID YOU KNOW? The first physician assistant program was established at North Carolina’s Duke University Medical Center in 1965, and the discipline has become increasingly popular in all 50 U.S. states. Early PA programs were modeled after the fast-track training available to World War II doctors and addressed a shortage of primary care physicians. Spring 2013 19 Drawing from experience Tara Sweeney, Augsburg College associate professor of art, looks for the extraordinary in the ordinary, drawing from direct observation with watercolor and ink. After 21 years at Augsburg, she is at ease teaching painting and drawing in the College’s on-campus studios. But, Sweeney said, since 1999 she has pushed herself—and the students she instructs—into “deeper observing, questioning, and creating” through shortterm study abroad programs in Italy and France. “Learning to draw in a study abroad program is an opportunity to travel in an entirely different way than a typical tourist,” Sweeney said. “It wakes us up. Sketching in the midst of daily life challenges the habitual ways we think about ourselves, where we are, and what we know. It coaxes us to be more open, more present to what we encounter.” In January 2013, Sweeney collaborated with Merilee Klemp, associate professor of music, to teach the fine arts course, The Sights and Sounds of Europe: Paris, which encouraged students to embrace art and music as interrelated disciplines during an Augsburg Abroad winter break program. Sweeney said students sketched at key cultural locations as well as at art museums and live musical performances throughout the City of Lights, prompting the travelers to learn new visual and aural skills, engage with people in the community, and embrace the diversity of their unfamiliar setting. “Drawing is its own language—one that can be shared without words,” Sweeney said. “It makes the artist and the art-making more visible and approachable. Strangers pause, watch the sketches unfold, and sometimes share their stories. Empathy and trust grow out of this experience. These attitudes are essential to drawing and designing, to teaching and learning, and to embracing and understanding the world we live in.” Prior to teaching, Sweeney was a freelance book illustrator and designer as well as executive art director for Mpls. St. Paul Magazine. She is a prolific artist whose recent work ranges from artist books to mixed media paintings and drawings. She holds signature status in the Minnesota Watercolor Society. The Phipps Center for the Arts in Hudson, Wis., recently exhibited 42 drawings from her current series, “Close to Home: A Visual Journal.” Her spring 2013 sabbatical project focuses on the completion of this series. Sweeney, at right, with student Nina Robinson ’14. Augsburg students who participated in The Sights and Sounds of Europe: Paris course recorded their travel experiences in sketchbooks and journals. Sweeney taught students drawing techniques by demonstrating in her own visual journal. Sweeney’s examples, included here, show how Paris provided both the subject matter and the classroom for this unique approach to experiential education. 20 Augsburg Now alumni news FROM THE ALUMNI BOARD PRESIDENT Dear alumni and friends, d ALUMNI AND STUDENT networking During February, Augsburg students connected with alumni at a networking event sponsored by the Office of Alumni and Constituent Relations and the Clair and Gladys Strommen Center for Meaningful Work. Here psychology major Joe Kempf ’16 talks with Auggie alumni. To find out about future opportunities to mentor or support current students, go to augsburg.edu/alumni. Current and former Alumni Board members gather at the first Alumni Leadership Summit. provide all alumni with an opportunity to return to campus, meet with current faculty and students, learn about the exciting things that are taking place at Augsburg, and discover how we can play a role in the continued success of the College. Please join with me in taking ownership of the future of Augsburg! CHRIS ASCHER ’81 ALUMNI BOARD PRESIDENT AUGSBURG ALUMNI ASSOCIATION uring February, the Alumni Board hosted the first Alumni Leadership Summit, bringing to campus key leaders who have served on the Alumni Board of Directors in the past. The objective of this summit was to educate our most engaged alumni about the importance of the Center for Science, Business, and Religion; to introduce them to its Campaign Action Team; and to discuss meaningful ways that they can contribute to the success of the campaign and engage their classmates in the process. The summit was a wonderful opportunity to see the outstanding work being done by Augsburg faculty and staff members, to tour the current science facilities, and to reconnect with the College and our classmates. I was truly overwhelmed, although not surprised, by the enthusiasm demonstrated by those in attendance. As alumni of Augsburg College, we are in part responsible for its financial future. This summer and fall, we have planned a series of additional class year and affinity group summits to The Augsburg Alumni Association is looking for volunteers to serve on the Alumni Board. All alumni are welcome and encouraged to apply. The Alumni Board is a governing body of the Alumni Association. Together with the Office of Alumni and Constituent Relations, it provides resources and opportunities to engage alumni with the College and each other through consistent communication, inclusive programming, and intentional relationship-building. For more information, email alumni@augsburg.edu. Spring 2013 21 alumni news YOUNG ALUMNI AUGSBURG HONORS FORMER WRESTLING COACH summer series RON PFEFFER BRIT’S PUB 1100 Nicollet Mall, Minneapolis Complimentary beverage and appetizers provided. Wednesday, June 19 TWINS VS. CHICAGO WHITE SOX 5-7 p.m.—Pre-game reception at Hubert’s, 600 N. First Avenue, Minneapolis 7:10 p.m.—Game at Target Field. $30 includes ticket to game in The Pavilion, appetizers, and a complimentary beverage at Hubert’s. Thursday, July 18, 5:30-9 p.m. YOUNG ALUMNI LEADERSHIP SUMMIT Minneapolis Club, 729 Second Avenue S., Minneapolis Join fellow young alumni leaders to learn how you can support the future of your alma mater. Pre-reception cocktails, dinner, and presentation. Friday, August 2, 5-7 p.m. Photo by Don Stoner Thursday, May 30, 5-7 p.m. Former Augsburg College wrestling coach Ron Pfeffer, who coached the team’s first four Augsburg All-American wrestlers and led the team to its first top-10 national tournament finish, was honored on Saturday, January 26, when a new competition mat was named in his Ron Pfeffer celebrates with the All-Amerhonor. Augsburg wrestling icans who competed during his Augsburg coaching career. [L to R]: Mike Good ’71, alumni, including many Ron Johnson ’71, Ron Pfeffer, Daryl Miller who wrestled for Pfeffer, ’69, and Pat Marcy ’72. attended the ceremony. Pfeffer coached the Auggies from 1966 to 1971, compiling a 52-10-1 dual-meet record. His teams from 1967-68 to 1969-70 won three straight Minnesota Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (MIAC) championships, and his 197071 team became the first Augsburg wrestling squad to earn a top-10 national finish. Pfeffer coached 17 MIAC individual champions, taught health and physical education courses, and served as an assistant football coach at Augsburg. AUGGIE NIGHT AT CANTERBURY PARK 1100 Canterbury Road, Shakopee Free admission, picnic buffet, and reserved seating. Friday, September 27, 6-8 p.m. HOMECOMING 2013— REPUBLIC AT SEVEN CORNERS 221 Cedar Ave. S., Minneapolis Complimentary beverage and appetizers provided. To register, go to augsburg.edu/alumni. Join the Augsburg College Young Alumni Facebook group to learn more and stay connected. 22 Augsburg Now SAVE THE DATE Leland B. Sateren’s 100th birthday celebration SUNDAY, OCTOBER 13 4 p.m., Normandale Lutheran Church Edina, Minn. Leland B. Sateren ’35, director of the Augsburg Choir from 1946 to 1979, would have been 100 years old on October 13, 2013. To celebrate Sateren’s legacy, a special public concert including Augsburg Choir alumni will be held on his birthday. Choir alumni will receive more information this summer. To learn more, contact the Office of Alumni Relations at alumni@augsburg.edu. Scholastic Connections’ students, mentors forge deep bonds Beverly Bushyhead ’98, a professional in nonprofit leadership and management, volunteered to serve as a mentor through the Scholastic Connections program at Augsburg because of her strong desire to assist Native American students with navigating college. Scholastic Connections is a scholarship and mentorship program for high-achieving undergraduate students of color at Augsburg College. The program is designed to assist students in the completion of their undergraduate degree by pairing them with a mentor—usually also a person of color—who recognizes, supports, challenges, and inspires them. In addition, mentors provide meaningful insight and guidance on becoming engaged, successful citizens of the world when students graduate, in part by facilitating career development and planning. Bushyhead, who is a member of the Eastern Band of Cherokee from North Carolina, was paired in 2010 with Rebecca Dickinson ’13, a double major in Spanish and sociology. Dickinson is a member of the White Earth Band of Ojibwe. Since they first met three years ago, their mentoring relationship has grown to focus on challenging questions related to life and professional success, and the two regularly connect. Bushyhead describes Dickinson as “incredibly bright and competent, and more than that—she is brave and ethical.” Bushyhead also said she’s watched Dickinson’s commitment to others deepen during the course of their three-year mentor relationship. Dickinson, indeed, is engaged in Beverly Bushyhead ’98 and Rebecca Dickinson ’13 the community. She teaches voice to middle-school girls, is a Page Scholar in community centers, works with Minnesota Public Research Group, and is a tutor at a community library. Dickinson said when she questions whether she can make a difference in the world, she leans on words from Bushyhead: earn an education because you can, represent similar voices that are unheard, and work to create systemic change so that educational opportunities are available to more people. CHERYL CROCKETT ’89 Alumni are needed to mentor students in the Scholastic Connections program. If you are interested in volunteering your time, contact Cindy Peterson at 612-330-1754 or petersoc@augsburg.edu. Reunion Classes SEPTEMBER 23-28 50th Reunion—1963 40th Reunion—1973 30th Reunion—1983 25th Reunion—1988 10th Reunion—2003 augsburg.edu/homecoming Spring 2013 23 alumni class notes After 10 years of service as chief technology officer at Lewis & Clark College in Portland, Ore., Dan Terrio accepted the position of chief information officer at Whitman College in Walla Walla, Wash. 90 Sara (Quigley) Brown was installed on October 28, 2012, as the pastor at Alaska Native Lutheran, an Inupiaq (Eskimo) congregation of the ELCA in Anchorage, Alaska. Her husband, Russell, works in IT for Wells Fargo. 00 Kathryn Koch has been appointed the event and administrative manager for the O’Shaughnessy at St. Catherine University in St. Paul. 01 auggie SNAPSHOTS Stephanie Quick-Espinoza was named the director of evangelical mission and synod minister for expanding vision in the Rocky Mountain Synod Office of the Bishop. Her call began in 24 February 2013. Stephanie and her family relocated to Denver, Colo. Jaclyn Gehrke is teaching at a bilingual school in Roatán, Honduras. 07 Jake (Johnson) Rapp directed Brain-Dumb for the Minnesota band STNNNG. The video was named a Best Twin Cities music video of 2012 by City Pages. Rapp earned his bachelor of arts in film production at Augsburg. Rapp’s student work was featured at the 2011 and 2012 ACTC film festivals. 12 Graduate programs Lori Peterson, Augsburg assistant vice president and dean of graduate and professional studies, was recognized with the University of Minnesota’s College of Education and Human Development 2012 Distinguished Alumni Award. Peterson was commended for her leadership in adult education. Filling their father’s skates When Bill McClellan ’86 [center] attends Augsburg men’s hockey games, he is proud to see his sons, Ben ’15 [left] and B. J. ’14 [right], stepping out onto the same rink where he skated with the Augsburg hockey team more than 20 years ago. If you’re an Auggie alum and would like your grandchild, son, daughter, or sibling to be an Auggie too, contact the Office of Admissions about the Augsburg Legacy scholarship at 612-330-1001 or admissions@augsburg.edu. To read more about the McClellans, go to augsburg.edu/now. Kaye (Nelson) Jenness ’67 and Gretchen (Strom) Schmidt ’68 and their spouses met in Astoria, Ore., for a two-day visit during September 2012. 67-68 Marilyn Elness Froiland and her husband, Pastor Philip Froiland, spent the month of August 2011 in Sitka, Alaska, as volunteer docents at Sitka Lutheran Church, the oldest Lutheran church on the West Coast of the United States. The church was founded in 1840 by Pastor Uno Cygnaeus of the Church of Finland after the Russian czar granted permission for a Lutheran church to be built by the Russian American Company. Throughout the month, the Froilands showed 1,100 tourists the artifacts of the original church and explained its history. 53 Augsburg Now Neil Pauluk Paulson completed a marathon in each of the 50 U.S. states and in the District of Columbia. Paulson ran 36 marathons in 2010 and 32 in 2011; his longest streak was 14 races in 14 weeks, and he completed two marathons (in New Hampshire and Maine) in one weekend. He also competed in 50K and 24-hour races. Paulson is the director of a private mortgage investment fund affiliated with Equity Trust Company and owner of Franklin Financial, LLC, a mortgage and real estate investment company. 77 auggies are awesome Carol (Kenyon) Dekker’s son, Sam, was named Wisconsin’s Mr. Basketball in 2012 and led the team from Sheboygan Lutheran High School to the Division V state basketball championship by hitting a game-winning 3-pointer with 6 seconds remaining on the game clock. Sam also was selected to play on the USA Basketball Men’s U18 national team that won the gold medal in Brazil during June 2012, and he was a member of the Wisconsin Badgers men’s basketball team in the 2012-13 season. 80 Jessica Barker, Jen Ringeisen Berg, Christa Winkelman, Tara Cesaretti McLeod, and Jane Ruth Zirbes attended their 15-year reunion during Homecoming 2012 at Augsburg. 97 Cristina M. Olstad ’00, ’05 MSW was named the assistant vice president for student affairs at Towson University in Maryland. Olstad began the position on January 23. She previously served as the assistant director of residential education at the University of Vermont, where she completed her doctoral degree in educational leadership and policy studies. Olstad and her wife, Kirsten Fricke, are thrilled to be moving to the Baltimore area to be closer to family and friends. 00 Christina (Boe) and Michael T. Anderson ’13 WEC welcomed Savannah Elizabeth on October 9, 2012. She joins big sister, Charlotte. The couple hopes the girls will become third-generation Auggies by attending the College following their parents and their grandfather, David E. Boe ’68. 04 Laura (Eliason) Faitsbau was married on January 8, 2011, to Lauren (Jung) Faitsbau in Decorah, Iowa. The couple welcomed Rowan Sage Faitsbau on August 16, 2012. 05 Stacey (Kinder) and Ryan Plasch welcomed daughter Audrey Valda Plasch on November 22, 2012. Ryan works for South Metro Human Services and Stacey is currently a full-time mother. The family lives in Maple Grove, Minn. 09 Kelsey Crockett married Stacey Gadsden in Belknap Springs, Ore., on July 7, 2012. The couple lives in Spring Hill, Tenn., where Stacey works at Olive Garden and attends college while Kelsey is a consultant for Verizon Financial Services, Southern Region. Kelsey’s parents are Larry Crockett, professor at Augsburg College, and Cheryl Crockett ’89, a volunteer in the Office of Alumni and Constituent Relations. 07 Brittney Ruth Hodgdon was born to Andrea (Slack) and Clint Hodgdon ’04 on August 15, 2012. Andrea is an accountant at Renewable Products Marketing Group, and Clint is a sales manager at Ameriprise Financial. 07 Jenessa Payano Stark married Geomar Payano Stark in Glenwood, Minn., on June 8, 2012. The couple lives in New York City, where they met as bicycle messengers. Jenessa works as a homebirth midwife assistant for Cara Muhlhahn Midwifery, and Geomar works as a bicycle messenger. 07 Spring 2013 25 auggie SNAPSHOTS Dixon Dehmer and Melissa Ludwig were married at Zion Lutheran Church in Buffalo, Minn. on September 15, 2012. Dixon is employed at Nilfisk-Advance in Plymouth, Minn., as a financial accountant. Melissa is employed at Venture Photography in Edina, Minn., as the office manager. The couple resides in Buffalo. 09 Ali Rapp and Jake (Johnson) Rapp ’12 were married on November 10, 2012. Jake owns a video production company, and Ali is a master of arts candidate at the University of Minnesota. Carmen Crockett ’12 MBA married John Williams in Eagan, Minn., on October 6, 2012. Larry Crockett, professor at Augsburg College and father of the bride, officiated at the ceremony. The bride was escorted down the aisle by her mother, Cheryl Crockett ’89, who is a volunteer in the Office of Alumni and Constituent Relations. Carmen is an account manager for SPS Commerce in downtown Minneapolis, and John works for Wells Fargo in the area of mortgages and foreclosures. They live in Eagan, Minn. 12 26 Augsburg Now Later this year, the offices of Alumni Relations and Marketing and Communication will administer the member magazine readership survey created by the Council for Advancement and Support of Education (CASE). This web survey is designed to help college and university editors evaluate how readers view their campus magazine and to benchmark the results. Please email langemo@augsburg.edu to update your email address. A random sample of Augsburg Now readers will be asked to participate in this survey. The Landmarks of South Africa and Namibia 11 CORRECTION: On page 37 of the Fall 2012 issue of Augsburg Now, Gretha (Halvorson) Loken ’38 and her daughter Mary (Loken) Veiseth ’70 were pictured at the graduation of Amy Aylsworth ’12. Aylsworth was incorrectly listed as Veiseth’s daughter; she is Veiseth’s niece. GIVE US YOUR FEEDBACK Dr. Amit K. Ghosh ’12 MBA received the Laureate Award from the Minnesota Chapter of the American College of Physicians. The award was presented in Minneapolis on November 2, 2012. Ghosh is a professor of medicine at Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and a consultant in the division of general internal medicine. He is also the current director of the Mayo Clinic international program. Pictured with Dr. Ghosh are his wife, Karthik [left], and daughter, Divya [right]. 12 AUGUST 11-24, 2013 Join Augsburg College President Paul C. Pribbenow and fellow alumni and friends on this African tour through South Africa and Namibia’s shared political past and the popular tourist attractions and landmarks this history has created. This trip is offered by the Augsburg College Alumni Association and Center for Global Education (CGE) at Augsburg College. To request more details about the trip, call 612-330-1085 or email alumni@augsburg.edu. In memoriam Send us your news and photos Rev. Lester A. Dahlen ’39, Richfield, Minn., age 95, on September 25. Richard H. “Dick” Velve ’57, Eden Prairie, Minn., age 76, on September 24. Rev. Luther O. Strommen ’39, Minneapolis and Sun City, Ariz., age 95, on September 29. Allen J. Johnson ’61, Sioux City, Iowa, age 73, on October 23. Clair K. “Kenny” Chelmen ’40, Bloomington, Minn., age 93, on September 17. Ronald T. Hagenson ’63, Plymouth, Minn., age 76, on May 2, 2012. Mildred D. (Tweed) Thudium ’40, Oreland, Pa., age 93, on August 6. Charles M. Daggett ’64, Watertown, Minn., age 74, on November 6. Philip C. Helland ’42, Minneapolis, age 92, on December 12. Christ J. Behm ’68, Little Canada, Minn., age 65, on January 14. Shirley Ann (George) Foster ’49, Springfield, Minn., age 84, on September 19. John G. Telste ’72, Ashburn, Va., age 61, on October 7. Charlotte E. Leafblad ’49, Zion, Ill., age 85, on January 2. Merida N. (Collin) Erickson ’50, Naperville, Ill., age 85, on November 22. Marolyn (Sortland) Halverson ’51, Columbus, Ohio, age 83, on October 31. Jean (Vettel) Kiteley ’51, Exeter, N.H., age 83, on November 16. Orpha (Hushagen) Iseminger ’54, Sioux Falls, S.D., age 82, on June 14. Walter K. Josephson ’54, Rochester, Minn., age 82, on May 16, 2012. Kermit E. Bolstad ’56, Culbertson, Mont., age 77, on August 8. John W. Haynes ’56, Pengilly, Minn., age 80, on September 15. Charles “Chuck” Howard ’56, Madelia, Minn., age 81, on October 15. Harlan C. Christianson ’57, Los Angeles, Calif., age 77, on December 15. Karen L. Johnson ’75, St. Paul, age 58, on April 2, 2012. Deidre (Durand) Middleton ’88, Plymouth, Minn., age 73, on November 24. Vicki C. MacNabb ’07, Minneapolis, age 65, on December 24. Please tell us about the news in your life, your new job, move, marriage, and births. Don’t forget to send photos! (Digital photos must be at least 300 dpi or a 1MB file.) For news of a death, printed notice is required, e.g., an obituary, funeral notice, or program from a memorial service. Send your news items, photos, or change of address by mail to: Augsburg Now Class Notes, Augsburg College, CB 146, 2211 Riverside Ave., Minneapolis, MN 55454, or email alumni@augsburg.edu. You can also submit news at augsburg.edu/alumni. ______________________________________________________ Full name ______________________________________________________ Maiden name ______________________________________________________ Class year or last year attended ______________________________________________________ Street address ______________________________________________________ City, State, ZIP code Is this a new address? ❑ Yes ❑ No ______________________________________________________ Home telephone ______________________________________________________ Email Okay to publish your email address? ❑ Yes ❑ No Daniel J. Martin ’10, Lafayette, Colo., age 27, on October 23. ______________________________________________________ Employer Eric Dietz ’11, Hilo, Hawaii, age 29, on January 6. ______________________________________________________ Position Mark C. Langdon ’13, Omaha, Nebr., age 22, on December 7. ______________________________________________________ Work telephone Andrew Pehrson ’13, Eden Prairie, Minn., age 23, on December 27. Is spouse also a graduate of Augsburg College? ❑ Yes ❑ No Austin R. Conley ’16, Minneapolis, age 20, on October 27. Professor Emeritus Ray Anderson, Minneapolis, age 88, on January 6. Professor Emeritus Vern Bloom, Bloomington, Minn., age 78, on October 20. If yes, class year__________________________________________ ______________________________________________________ Spouse’s name (include maiden name, if applicable) Your news: ______________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________ ❑ I know a student who is interested in attending Augsburg. Spring 2013 27 it takes an auggie AUGSBURG STEWARDS: auggies for life A group of dedicated students play an important role in the life and future of the College. Since 2005, the Augsburg Stewards have shared their stories of being a student with alumni. The Stewards also have taught their college peers about the importance of philanthropy to the life of the College. These dedicated Auggies perform their service to Augsburg through alumni relations programs and Augsburg Fund initiatives. In return, the Stewards find that their service yields unique career development opportunities. In addition to educating their peers on the role they will play as alumni, Stewards also connect with other students throughout the year through Philanthropy Week, the Feed the Pig class challenge, and the 100 Days to Graduation Senior Party. Each of these programs is intended to inspire a lifetime of Auggie Pride in Stewards and other students. Stewards, as current Auggies, connect with alumni at events such as Advent Vespers, the Convocation Series lectures, Homecoming, the Alumni Summer Series, the Alumni/ Student Networking evening, and Scholarship Brunch, and begin to build relationships that can lead to internships or career opportunities. Augsburg Stewards [pictured clockwise from top]: Justin Lochner ’13, Ashley Pepper ’16, Emily Bauermeister ’15, Gary Mariscal ’14, Jake Haehnal ’14 THE Maroon & Silver SOCIETY JILL WATSON ’10 MBA is one of the newest members of Augsburg’s Maroon & Silver Society. Members pledge to contribute $1,000 annually to The Augsburg Fund to provide scholarships, help the College hire and retain outstanding faculty, and foster academic growth and achievement for Augsburg students. The generous donors of the Maroon & Silver Society make up 8 percent of all donors to The Augsburg Fund but provide 69 percent of the dollars received each year. Watson gives to The Augsburg Fund because she knows it supports all students—undergraduate and graduate—in their pursuit of an Augsburg education. “In January, I was fortunate to be invited to a Leadership Summit where I learned about Augsburg’s long-term vision and goals. This experience was truly inspiring, and I walked away knowing that I had to get more involved in the life of the College. I chose to support The Augsburg Fund through the Maroon & Silver Society because it touches all Augsburg students in some way.” augsburg.edu/giving Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Twin Cities, MN Permit No. 2031 2211 Riverside Avenue Minneapolis, MN 55454 Auggies are everywhere! As part of the Rochester community for nearly 15 years, Augsburg College’s campus in downtown Rochester offers undergraduate and graduate degree programs in business, education, and nursing. To watch a video of Auggie Eagle in Rochester, go to augsburg.edu/rochester or scan the QR code.
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Title: Augsburg Now Fall 2013: Celebrating Auggie Pride!
Collection: Alumni Magazine Collection
Search Result: inside AUGSBURG NOW What the world wants is a good job Augsburg College Homecoming 2013 Keeping track of Auggies Augsburg 2019: A strategic vision CELEBRATING auggie PRIDE! FALL 2013 | VOL. 76, NO. 1 Auggie class challenge Vice President of Marketing and Communication NOTES NOTES F...
Show more inside AUGSBURG NOW What the world wants is a good job Augsburg College Homecoming 2013 Keeping track of Auggies Augsburg 2019: A strategic vision CELEBRATING auggie PRIDE! FALL 2013 | VOL. 76, NO. 1 Auggie class challenge Vice President of Marketing and Communication NOTES NOTES FROM FROM PRESIDENT PRESIDENT PRIBBENOW PRIBBENOW “Big “Big for for the the world…” world…” In this issue of In this issue of Augsburg Now, you Augsburg Now, you will ﬁnd a summary of will find a summary of Augsburg 2019, Augsburg 2019, a strategic framework a strategic framework developed over the developed over the past several months past several months with the involvewith the involvement of Regents, ment of Regents, faculty, staff, and faculty, staff, and students. Focused on students. Focused Augsburg’s 150th anniversary in 2019, the plan sets on Augsburg’s 150th out an ambitious vision, which claims that in 2019, anniversary in 2019, the plan sets out an ambitious “Augsburg will be a new kind of student-centered, urban vision, which claims that in 2019, “Augsburg will be a university—small to our students and big for the world.” new kind of student-centered, urban university—small to I hope you ﬁnd in this vision statement a glimpse our students and big for the world.” of the Augsburg we all know and love—and that we all I hope you find in this vision statement a glimpse want to support and help strengthen for the future. of the Augsburg we all know and love—and that we all The Augsburg that we all know is a college where want to support and help strengthen for the future. students are central to our daily lives; where personal The Augsburg that we all know is a college where relationships and a sense of community combine to students are central to our daily lives; where personal provide rare opportunities to learn and serve; and relationships and a sense of community combine to where academic, civic, and faith commitments are provide rare opportunities to learn and serve; and explored and strengthened. A college that is small to where academic, civic, and faith commitments are our students. explored and strengthened. A college that is small to At the same time, we are a college that makes our students. a remarkable impact on the world—as a community At the same time, we are a college that makes and through our thousands of graduates pursuing a remarkable impact on the world—as a community their vocations in various settings around the globe. and through our thousands of graduates pursuing A college that is big for the world. their vocations in various settings around the globe. When reviewing the editorial plan for this issue A college that is big for the world. of Augsburg Now, I was struck with how this vision When reviewing the editorial plan for this issue of “big for the world” is evident in so many different of Augsburg Now, I was struck with how this vision ways. And at the risk of violating what my predecesof “big for the world” is evident in so many different sor, President Bill Frame, called Augsburg’s “militant ways. And at the risk of violating what my predecesmodesty,” allow me to brag a bit about this very sor, President Bill Frame, called Augsburg’s “militant special college… modesty,” allow me to brag a bit about this very s !BOUTONEOFTHELARGESTlRST YEARCLASSESIN special college… Augsburg’s history this fall—more than 460 ﬁrst• About one of the largest first-year classes in year students—and the effect they already are Augsburg’s history this fall—more than 460 firsthaving on campus with their spirit and activism. year students—and the effect they already are s having !BOUTTHEFACTTHATOURSCIENCEFACULTYHAVEGENERon campus with their spirit and activism. ated unprecedented funding from the National • About the fact that our science faculty have generScience Foundation and other federal agencies, ated unprecedented funding from the National ranking Augsburg third in the state among all higher Science Foundation and other federal agencies, ranking Augsburg third in the state among all higher Rebecca John ’13 MBA rjohn@augsburg.edu Director of Marketing Communication Kathy Rumpza ’05 MAL rumpza@augsburg.edu education institutions, behind only the University education institutions, behind only the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities and the University of of Minnesota-Twin Cities and the University of Minnesota-Duluth. Minnesota-Duluth. s !BOUTTHEFACTTHATWEWERENAMEDTHISPASTFALLAS • About the fact that we were named this past fall as one of the top 25 colleges in the country for service one of the top 25 colleges in the country for service learning programs, exemplifying how our commitlearning programs, exemplifying how our commitment to education for service is imbedded in the ment to education for service is imbedded in the curriculum and recognized by others as a highcurriculum and recognized by others as a highimpact way of learning. impact way of learning. s !BOUTTHEFACTTHATWEAREPARTNERINGWITHMORE • About the fact that we are partnering with more than a dozen colleges and health care institutions than a dozen colleges and health care institutions in the Twin Cities to combine our human and ﬁscal in the Twin Cities to combine our human and fiscal resources in support of neighborhoods along the resources in support of neighborhoods along the new Central Corridor Light Rail Line between downnew Central Corridor Light Rail Line between downtown Minneapolis and St. Paul. town Minneapolis and St. Paul. s !BOUTTHEFACTTHATWERAISEDMORETHANMILLION • About the fact that we raised more than $19 million in gifts and pledges during the 2012-13 academic in gifts and pledges during the 2012-13 academic year from alumni, parents, friends, corporations, and year from alumni, parents, friends, corporations, and foundations—another record year in fundraising for foundations—another record year in fundraising for Augsburg, our third record year in a row—and that Augsburg, our third record year in a row—and that WEHAVENOWRAISEDMORETHANMILLIONFORTHE we have now raised more than $25 million for the planned Center for Science, Business, and Religion. planned Center for Science, Business, and Religion. s !BOUTTHEFACTTHATWECONTINUETODEVELOPINNOVA• About the fact that we continue to develop innovative academic programs, including our new Master tive academic programs, including our new Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing, which was launched of Fine Arts in Creative Writing, which was launched this past summer with a ﬁrst cohort of 16 students, this past summer with a first cohort of 16 students, and a partnership with the Minneapolis Community and a partnership with the Minneapolis Community and Technical College to offer the ﬁrst fast-track and Technical College to offer the first fast-track RN/Bachelor of Science in Nursing professional RN/Bachelor of Science in Nursing professional program in Minnesota between a two-year public program in Minnesota between a two-year public institution and a four-year private college. institution and a four-year private college. And I could go on. There’s more in the pages And I could go on. There’s more in the pages that follow and even more in the daily life of the that follow and even more in the daily life of the Augsburg community. Come and visit, as Minnesota Augsburg community. Come and visit, as Minnesota State Senator Terri Bonoff, chair of the Senate State Senator Terri Bonoff, chair of the Senate Higher Education Committee, did recently, and see Higher Education Committee, did recently, and see for yourself what she described this way: “This is a for yourself what she described this way: “This is a special college—one where being small to students special college—one where being small to students and big for the world is really true.” I couldn’t have and big for the world is really true.” I couldn’t have said it better. said it better. Faithfully yours, Faithfully yours, PAUL C. PRIBBENOW, PRESIDENT PAUL C. PRIBBENOW, PRESIDENT Director of News and Media Services Stephanie Weiss weisss@augsburg.edu Senior Creative Associate-Design Jen Nagorski ’08 nagorski@augsburg.edu Integrated Communication Specialist Laura Swanson swansonl@augsburg.edu Marketing Copywriter Christina Haller haller@augsburg.edu Photographer Stephen Geffre geffre@augsburg.edu Production Manager/Now Online Mark Chamberlain chamberm@augsburg.edu Assistant Vice President of Advancement Kim Stone stonek@augsburg.edu augsburg.edu Augsburg Now is published by Augsburg College 2211 Riverside Ave. Minneapolis, MN 55454 Opinions expressed in Augsburg Now do not necessarily reﬂect reflect ofﬁcial official College policy. ISSN 1058-1545 Send address corrections to: Advancement Services CB 142 Augsburg College 2211 Riverside Ave. Minneapolis, MN 55454 langemo@augsburg.edu Email: now@augsburg.edu fall 2013 AUGSBURG NOW 16 Courtesy photo 12 Features 20 18 02 09 14 18 20 Augsburg 2019 What the whole world wants is a good job Augsburg College annual report Mixing teamwork into the courseload Homecoming 2013 Departments inside front cover 4 Notes from President Pribbenow Around the Quad 12 Auggie voices 16 Auggies on the court 19 My Auggie experience 23 It takes an Auggie 2 On the cover Edor Nelson Field, home to Auggie football, softball, lacrosse, and soccer, was resurfaced with more durable and safe FieldTurf Revolution this summer. The field is named for Edor Nelson ’38, longtime Auggie athletics coach and World War II veteran. Read about other Auggie veterans on page 12. All photos by Stephen Geffre unless otherwise indicated. 19 24 Keeping track of Auggies 31 In memoriam AUGSBURG 2019 A STRATEGIC VISION In January 2013, the Augsburg College Board of Regents launched a strategic planning initiative that involved conversation and input from across the campus community. The outcome of that work is a strategic vision statement that looks out to 2019, Augsburg’s sesquicentennial year: In 2019, Augsburg College will be a new kind of student-centered, urban university that is small to our students and big for the world. “Small to our students” reflects the relationships, community, and personal attention that are hallmarks of the educational experience at Augsburg. “Big for the world” acknowledges the significant impact we know our students—and alumni—do and will make in the world. The strategic plan is grounded in Augsburg’s mission statement, which was updated in 2010. The plan is organized into three categories, or dimensions, each with three goals. Detail about each of the strategic planning dimensions is provided on the next page. The strategic vision will anchor the College’s institutional initiatives and priorities throughout the next five years, reflecting the values and commitments stated in our mission: AUGSBURG EDUCATES STUDENTS TO BE INFORMED CITIZENS, THOUGHTFUL STEWARDS, CRITICAL THINKERS, AND RESPONSIBLE LEADERS. THE AUGSBURG EXPERIENCE IS SUPPORTED BY AN ENGAGED COMMUNITY THAT IS COMMITTED TO INTENTIONAL DIVERSITY IN ITS LIFE AND WORK. AN AUGSBURG EDUCATION IS DEFINED BY EXCELLENCE IN THE LIBERAL ARTS AND PROFESSIONAL STUDIES, GUIDED BY THE FAITH AND VALUES OF THE LUTHERAN CHURCH, AND SHAPED BY ITS URBAN AND GLOBAL SETTINGS. 2 Augsburg Now DIMENSION 1 DIMENSION 2 DIMENSION 3 EDUCATING FOR LIVES OF PURPOSE AT THE TABLE BUILT FOR THE FUTURE The first dimension articulates OUR ACADEMIC The second dimension focuses on OUR The third dimension is about how OUR DISTINCTION: Augsburg educates students for REPUTATION AND IDENTITY: Augsburg is “at INSTITUTION WILL THRIVE NOW AND IN THE lives of purpose. The goals in this category the table” with our neighbors and institutional FUTURE. The goals in this category call on challenge us to: partners in shaping education to address the Augsburg to be: world’s needs. The goals here call on us to: • rigorously integrate the liberal arts and the professional studies; • a welcoming, sustainable campus, • prepare an intentional mix of diverse learners for a complex, interconnected world; • use high-impact teaching and learning practices, enriched by our core com- • provide experiential opportunities that mitments of faith and spiritual inquiry, enable students to discover their gifts, vocational discernment, civic engagement, discern their vocations, and open doors to and global understanding; and careers; and anchored in our community and designed for educational excellence; • organized for collaboration, efficiency, and effectiveness; and • committed to maintaining a sound and sustainable financial footing. • provide each student with pathways for success to graduation and beyond. • publicly advance the core commitments that enrich our learning environment— faith and spiritual inquiry, vocational discernment, civic engagement, and global understanding. Fall 2013 3 AROUND THE QUAD COLLEGE AWARDS Top 25 schools for service learning U.S. News & World Report designated Augsburg College as one of the top 25 colleges and universities in the nation for its dedication to service learning. Schools named to the list were nominated by college presidents, chief academic officers, and deans from more than 1,500 higher education institutions. Augsburg was the only Minnesota school named to the list. Best Regional Universities by U.S. News & World Report U.S. News & World Report named Augsburg one of the Best Universities in the Midwest. Rankings are based on several factors, including average first-year retention rates, graduation rates, class sizes, student-faculty ratios, acceptance rates, and more. “Best in the Midwest” by Princeton Review Augsburg College is one of 155 colleges that The Princeton Review has named “Best in the Midwest” for academic excellence. Named Top 200 school by Winds of Change The American Indian Science and Engineering Society Winds of Change magazine has selected Augsburg as one of the Top 200 Schools in 2013 for Native American and Alaska Native students pursuing degrees in science, technology, engineering, and math. Recognized nationally for contribution to the public good Augsburg College was the No. 2 institution in Minnesota named by Washington Monthly in its 2013 Master’s Universities Rankings. The list rates schools based upon their contribution to the public good in three categories: social mobility, research, and service. Named a High ROI College by Affordable Colleges Online Augsburg College was named a top college for return on investment (ROI) in Minnesota for having high-earning graduates in comparison to tuition and fees. The ranking, by Affordable Colleges Online, is the result of a partnership among the National Center for Education Statistics, Integrated Post-Secondary Education Data System, the Carnegie Foundation, and PayScale.com. 4 Augsburg Now BOARD OF REGENTS WELCOMES NEW MEMBERS At its annual meeting in September, the Augsburg Corporation elected two new members to the Board of Regents and re-elected five others. Wayne Jorgenson ’71 Dennis Meyer ’78 Elected to their first term on the Augsburg Board of Regents: • Wayne Jorgenson ’71 serves as senior vice president of wealth management with UBS Financial Services, Inc. and brings decades of financial planning and investment management experience to the Board. • Dennis Meyer ’78 has extensive experience in strategic marketing and global business development. He has held executive positions in several industries, most recently in architecture and building engineering with AECOM Ellerbe Becket, as well as in communications, printing and imaging, and supply chain management. Elected to a second or third term: • Ann Ashton-Piper, president of The Bridge Group • Norman Hagfors, president (retired), Norsen, Inc. • Jodi Harpstead, chair of the Augsburg Board of Regents and chief executive officer, Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota • Dr. Paul Mueller ’84, physician and chair of general internal medicine, Mayo Clinic • Lisa Novotny ’80, vice president human resources, International, General Mills Mike Good ’71 and Jennifer Martin were named Regents Emeriti at the May meeting of the Augsburg Board of Regents. Each had served three four-year terms on the board. Marie McNeff also was named Regent Emerita by the Board at that meeting. McNeff, who passed away in September, was elected to the Board in 2005 and served as a Regent for the College until her retirement from the Board earlier in 2013. Augsburg science faculty awarded more than $695,000 in grants Augsburg College science faculty continue to be awarded grants from the National Science Foundation (NSF) for research. During 2012, the College was ranked third in Minnesota for the total dollar amount awarded to a school, behind only the University of Minnesota, Twin Cities and the University of Minnesota, Duluth. In addition, science faculty members recently were awarded an additional $695,087 in grants. These grants include: MARK ENGEBRETSON, professor of physics, was awarded a three-year, $185,940 grant for continued study and probing of Earth’s space environment, known as the magnetosphere. The project will help society better understand the relationship between Earth’s magnetosphere and its interaction with the solar wind and the interplanetary magnetic field. The project, which builds upon a long-standing relationship with the University of New Hampshire and that also makes data available to space physics researchers throughout the world, will study ultra-low-frequency waves on Svalbard, Norway, which is the only place in the northern hemisphere where the Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights) can be observed for longtime periods in darkness at noon. The grant, Federal Award ID Number AGS-1202267, brings to more than $2 million the awards earned by Engebretson since mid-2008. Funds will support the continued operation of four search coil magnetometers and the analysis of the data gathered. DAVID HANSON, assistant professor of chemistry, was awarded in excess of $386,000 for a three-year project that ultimately will help increase understanding of the sources of particulate matter that are harmful to human health. Hanson will test models for what is called nucleation rates that can be incorporated into global climate models. Nucleation is a process that drives the formation of new particles in the atmosphere. Hanson’s team will look specifically at nucleation in sulfuric acid, water, and amines. The funds from Federal Award ID Number AGS-1338706 also will support work by eight students in Hanson’s lab. David Hanson, assistant professor of chemistry, will use National Science Foundation funding to advance atmospheric chemistry research and support Augsburg students working in his lab. ANN IMPULITTI, assistant professor of biology, received an NSF grant for nearly $123,000 to investigate the physiology and productivity of economically important plants infected by parasitic, mutualistic, and commensal fungi. Research will focus on soybean due to its high economic value and the diverse uses of soybean products. The funds from Federal Award ID Number 1337582, along with an additional award of more than $52,000 that Impulitti received from the LiCor Environmental Education Fund, will be used to purchase a suite of instruments for plant ecophysiology research. The instruments will support interdisciplinary research in the plant biological sciences, mathematics, and environmental sciences, and also support collaboration between Augsburg College and the University of Minnesota. The instrumentation will enhance research experiences for undergraduates and will improve student instruction and discovery-based labs in plant biology, environmental science, and mathematics. Co-principal investigators on the grant include John Zobitz, Augsburg associate professor of mathematics, and Dean Malvick, associate professor of plant pathology at the University of Minnesota. Editor’s Note: Any opinions, findings, and conclusions or recommendations expressed in this material are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the National Science Foundation. Fall 2013 5 AROUND THE QUAD AUGSBURG HONORS PRESIDENT EMERITUS CHARLES S. ANDERSON Augsburg College renamed its music building the Charles S. Anderson Music Hall to honor the legacy of the College’s eighth president, who passed away June 14. Anderson oversaw significant growth in the College’s enrollment, program offerings, commitment to its Lutheran heritage, and student diversity. He was a constant advocate for Augsburg and helped to establish the College’s public presence in the Twin Cities. During his 17-year tenure, Augsburg launched the Weekend and Evening College (WEC) program, established the Center for Global Education, and introduced the StepUP® program for young people in recovery and the CLASS office for differently abled students. “Charles Anderson’s influence on the Augsburg community is deep and long-lived,” said Augsburg College President Paul C. Pribbenow. “The priorities Anderson outlined and championed during his tenure continue to shape how we live out our institutional mission and celebrate life and learning in the city each day.” Anderson Music Hall occupies a central location on campus and houses an array of music programs that welcome students of diverse musical interests. More than 100 students each year pursue traditional liberal arts music studies as well as degrees in music business, music education, [L to R]: Augsburg President Paul C. Pribbenow with Charles S. Anderson’s family: daughter Kristin Anderson, Augsburg College professor of art history and archivist; wife Catherine Anderson, an active Augsburg Associates member; and son, Eric Anderson. music performance, and music therapy. More than 350 music majors and non-music majors alike participate in the College’s numerous vocal, concert band, symphony orchestra, and jazz ensembles. Anderson’s legacy also includes the College’s beautiful annual Advent Vespers—celebrating the Advent season with a service of traditional and contemporary hymns, anthems, and carols. The celebration is one of the largest seasonal events in the Twin Cities, with 300 participants, including choral and instrumental performers, readers, a full liturgical party, and more than 10,000 worshipers annually. Each year, two Augsburg music students receive the prestigious Orville and Gertrude Hognander Music Scholarship. Initiated during Anderson’s tenure, Orville and Gertrude (Lund) Hognander, both 1936 Augsburg graduates, established the Hognander Scholarships in 1998 to provide up to full tuition for students with exceptional music performance and academic achievement. Students present AT BERKELEY In front of Dwinelle Hall on the University of California, Berkeley campus: Front row [L to R]: McNair Scholars Program Assistant Director Brian Greening, Mahelet Maru ’14, McNair Scholars Program Administrative Assistant Lara Crombie, Amineh Safi ’14, Sawiya Hassan ’14; middle row [L to R]: Magaly OrtizAucapipa ’14, Enrico Barrozo ’14; back row [L to R]: Raesean Sneed ’15, David Fowler ’14, Dereck Dasrath ’14, and Amir Rose ’14 6 Augsburg Now Last summer, nine researchers from Augsburg College traveled to California for one of the largest national gatherings of McNair Scholars. The Auggies presented findings from their summer research at the University of California, Berkeley for the 21st Annual Ronald E. McNair California Scholars Research Symposium, which boasts more than 300 student attendees. Augsburg students spent an average of 400 hours exploring their research topics, developing theses, collecting and reviewing data, and preparing formal paper presentations. Scholars were paired with a faculty mentor in their discipline to gain extensive skills and knowledge, learn research methods, and practice writing and public speaking. The students represented a wide range of disciplines including biology, philosophy, physics, and sociology. CONVOCATION SERIES 2013-14 First held in 1990, the Augsburg College Convocation Series is an annual speaker series that incorporates long-standing endowed and special programs. This fall, the series kicked off with the Bernhard M. Christensen Symposium featuring Krista Tippett, host and producer of the public radio show, On Being. Tippett shared thoughts from her book, Einstein’s God: Revisiting Science and Religion in a New Century. During the Center for Counseling and Health Promotion Convocation in October, Sian Beilock, an expert on performance and cognitive science, revealed the brain science behind “choking under pressure” in a lecture based on her book, Choke—What the Secrets of the Brain Reveal About Getting it Right When You Have To. GIVE FROM YOUR HEART GIVE TO THE MAX GiveMN, an online resource that helps Minnesotans donate to the state’s nonprofit community, hosted its annual Give to the Max Day on November 14. Auggies created more than 20 fundraising projects to help raise money for an Augsburg cause that they are passionate about. Contributions from Give to the Max Day help: • Faculty develop creative course offerings that encourage Augsburg students to think beyond the classroom. • Augsburg graduates prepare for their next chapter. • Keep Augsburg affordable—thanks to the generosity of donors, more than 94 percent of Augsburg day undergraduate students receive financial aid through grants and scholarships. The Humanities and Fine Arts Convocation in mid-November featured the Rose Ensemble’s performance of Portraits of Peru, 1785 Exotic Folksongs and Dances from Trujillo, inspired by a collection of watercolor paintings compiled by the local bishop for Spanish King Carlos IV, imaginatively depicting the plants, animals, people, and archaeological monuments of this diverse region in northern Peru. The next event, the Martin Luther King, Jr. Convocation, is scheduled for January 20 and will celebrate the life and legacy of this important civil rights leader. Convocations are free and open to the public. • Encourage a tradition of vocation and faith, going back to Augsburg’s roots as a Lutheran seminary. • Make healthy food accessible to all people in and around the Cedar-Riverside neighborhood and provide for basic needs, service learning, leadership development, and genuine engagement between the College and the community through Campus Kitchen. Check out the final results from the challenge online at givemn.org/auggiesgive. Fall 2013 7 AROUND THE QUAD Innovative partnership allows students to earn BACHELOR’S IN NURSING IN ONLY THREE YEARS A new partnership between Augsburg College and Minneapolis Community and Technical College (MCTC) gives students the opportunity to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) in only three years. The program, the first fast-track BSN professional program in Minnesota between a two-year public institution and a four-year private college, allows the schools to respond to the changing needs of health care professionals and local communities. “Augsburg has long been committed to offering high-quality bachelor’s and master’s programs in nursing,” said Augsburg College President Paul C. Pribbenow. “We are excited to partner with MCTC given our shared commitment to educating diverse student populations.” The partnership leverages unique relationships and strengths in each program. Students will study for two years Minn. Senate Higher Education Committee visits campus Photo by Laura Swanson To view additional photos from the event or watch a video in which Sen. Bonoff discusses Augsburg’s unique emphasis on service learning, go to augsburg.edu/now. 8 Augsburg Now at MCTC and then transfer to Augsburg for the third year. During their study at Augsburg, students will experience first-hand community health nursing in diverse settings including at the Augsburg Health Commons in downtown Minneapolis and at Dar Ul-Quba in the Cedar-Riverside neighborhood. In addition, third-year students in the program will be offered BSN practicum opportunities locally or abroad in Namibia or Nicaragua. Prior to their time at Augsburg, students will study in new, state-of-the-art classrooms and labs at MCTC. State, local, and education officials attended an opening ceremony at MCTC to announce the partnership. Those in attendance included Minnesota Gov. Mark Dayton, Hennepin County Commissioner Peter McLaughlin, and leaders from Augsburg, Minnesota State Colleges and Universities, and MCTC. Dozens of Augsburg College students, faculty, and staff took part in a September town hall meeting with Minnesota Rep. Phyllis Kahn and Sens. Terri Bonoff, Greg Clausen ’69, and Kari Dziedzic. The legislators visited Augsburg as part of a statewide “listening tour” effort launched by Bonoff, chair of the Minnesota State Senate Higher Education and Workforce Development Committee. The legislators were enthusiastic to learn more about private colleges in Minnesota and invited Auggies to consider ways to improve the state’s higher education system. The Augsburg students discussed with the legislators a number of issues, including transfer credits, financial aid options, career preparation, and on- and off-campus service learning experiences. One of the key themes the legislators stressed during the meeting was the important role colleges and universities play in educating the nation’s future leadership and workforce. “Education is the engine that runs our Minnesota economy,” Clausen said, addressing the Augsburg crowd. “We need to invest in you, and you need to invest in your education.” Clausen is part of an Augsburg legacy family—his wife, Roberta ’69, and son, Steven ’96, also attended the College. “What the whole world wants IS A GOOD JOB.”* BY REBECCA JOHN ’13 MBA Today, higher education has come under question— is the debt worth it, are students graduating at sufficient rates, are we educating enough of our population, are students actually learning what they need? In this environment, the value of higher education increasingly is being defined—by parents and prospective students alike—as “getting a good job.” In fact, this is the No. 1 reason cited by U.S. respondents in the 2012 Gallup/Lumina poll for pursuing education beyond high school. And the second reason? To earn more money. “When college students and their parents think about the value of higher education, they typically think about it too narrowly,” said Brandon Busteed, executive director of Gallup Education. “People tend to get caught up with things—like potential income or getting a job with a ‘blue chip’ company—that don’t matter” when it comes to predicting career success and satisfaction, Busteed said. “Focusing on those things is not the best way to think about a great job and a great life.” “WELLBEING” AS A MEASURE OF CAREER SUCCESS What factors do predict career success? According to Gallup, it’s being able to respond affirmatively to statements like the following: • • • • “I like what I do each day.” “I do what I do best every day.” “My supervisor cares about my development.” “I have a best friend at work.” Agreeing with statements like these indicates that a person is engaged in interesting and meaningful activities at work, is using his or her strengths to achieve goals, is motivated by the team leader, and is supported by colleagues who share a common purpose. Those characteristics, according to Gallup’s “wellbeing” research, correlate more with top performance than income or title or working for a prestigious organization. Gallup has been studying wellbeing, on a global basis, since the 1930s. “Wellbeing is not ‘wellness,’” Busteed said. “It is a multidimensional measure of how people rate their lives.” In the past several decades, Gallup’s study of people in more than 150 countries has revealed five universal, interconnected elements that shape our lives: career wellbeing, social wellbeing, financial wellbeing, physical wellbeing, and community wellbeing. “We didn’t invent these categories,” Busteed said. “The factors that correlate with wellbeing are what we found from the data collected over time and across populations.” Of those five *Source: Gallup World Poll, 2010 Fall 2013 9 Opportunities to learn and grow Progress in last six months How do we grow? 10 Augsburg Now What do I get? ic Bas s d Nee The career wellbeing issue is connected with low worker engagement, Busteed said. According to Gallup’s 2012 “State of the American Workplace” report, only 30 percent of full-time U.S. workers are engaged and inspired at work. Fifty percent are not engaged, the report states—“they’re just kind of present, but not inspired by their work or their managers.” The remaining 20 percent of all full-time U.S. workers are actively disengaged in their jobs. One significant driver of high or low engagement is a person’s manager, Busteed said. People looking for a “good job” focus so much on income and landing a position at a “good” company, but finding a good manager is vastly more important than working for a well-known company, he explained. Another factor causing low worker engagement is whether a person is using her or his strengths every day. “Not just once in a while, not once every week or so, but every day,” Busteed said. Among college graduates, he said, the lack of opportunity to use one’s strengths at work every day points to career misalignment—either getting a degree in a field in which one isn’t What do I give? . WELLBEING AND WORKPLACE ENGAGEMENT In c interconnected elements of wellbeing, career wellbeing is the most important, Busteed said. “Our careers are a fundamental piece of how we define ourselves,” Busteed said. “Plus, work is where you spend the majority of your waking hours,” so it is going to have a major impact on your life evaluation—not to mention your social, financial, and physical wellbeing. Gallup’s research shows that those who have high career wellbeing are 4.5 times more likely to be “thriving”—versus merely surviving or, worse, suffering—in life. However, just 31 percent of the U.S. population has very high career wellbeing. p, llu ual Ga ivid Ind ibution tr Con Materials and equipment to do the job I know what is expected of me at work ce: Someone encourages my development Supervisor/someone at work cares Recognition in the last seven days Do what I do best every day ur So Do I belong? ork mw Tea I have a best friend at work Coworkers committed to quality Mission/purpose of company At work, my opinions seem to count wth Gro What does a ‘GOOD JOB’ look like? able to get a job or pursuing a field because of others’ expectations instead of based on one’s own strengths. “The onus is certainly on the individual [student], but it is also on the college and mentors to make sure that students are asking themselves” what they are truly good at, what engages and excites them, Busteed said. EDUCATIONAL EXPERIENCES THAT SUPPORT CAREER SUCCESS In addition to studying workplace dynamics that correspond with career wellbeing, Gallup also has identified specific college experiences that correlate with subsequent career success. In its research, Gallup has found two educational experiences that are twice as likely as other factors to predict high work performance: 1) Working on a long-term project that took several classes to complete, and 2) Using what was learned in class to develop solutions to real-world problems. In short, Busteed said, “what works in school is ‘real work.’” “Real work”—including problem-solving and experiential education opportunities—helps prepare students for success after graduation, but Gallup also has done extensive research on the factors that predict success during college. Here, Busteed said, Gallup has found that “hope” is statistically a stronger predictor of educational outcomes than test scores or grade-point averages. (In fact, according to the work of Gallup Senior Scientist Shane Lopez, hope is the leading indicator of success in relationships, academics, career, and business—as well as of a healthier, happier life.) HOPE: AN IMPORTANT FACTOR IN COLLEGE SUCCESS “Hope is a strategy,” Busteed said. However, it is not just wishful thinking, he explained. Instead, it refers to one’s ideas and energy for the future and includes the following three elements: 1) Attainable goals, 2) The ability to see multiple pathways to achieve those goals, and 3) Agency—i.e., a belief that you can achieve your goals. Measures of hope, engagement, and wellbeing account for one-third of the variance of student success in college, Busteed reported. And, although college success is also driven by other things—such as academic preparation and content knowledge—those things are being measured fairly consistently and systematically through cognitive measures, such as tests. “But no one is paying attention to measuring the noncognitive factors that account for a whopping one-third of student success,” Busteed said. “We need better balance and alignment around how we track and promote student success [in college].” The same is true for college outcomes, where job placement percentages and average salaries tell only part of the story. “What’s the ultimate outcome of an education?” Busteed asked. “To have a better life,” he said. We need to pay attention to how we measure that. Augsburg and Career Wellbeing MATCHING YOUR GIFTS TO THE NEEDS OF THE WORLD According to Gallup, career wellbeing requires that people understand what they are truly good at and pursue career opportunities that allow them to use their strengths every day. Augsburg calls this vocational discernment. “Augsburg is about forming and shaping students to lead lives of meaning and purpose,” said Mark Tranvik, professor of religion and director of Augsburg’s Bernhard Christensen Center for Vocation. “At Augsburg, we encourage students to move beyond self-enhancement and think about their lives within a wider horizon. We want them to ask questions like, ‘What am I good at?’ and ‘How can my gifts best be used to make a difference in the world?’ “For many at the College,” Tranvik said, “faith plays an important role in how those questions are answered.” The exploration of one’s gifts is rooted deeply in the Lutheran theological tradition of vocation, and it is a critical part of the educational journey at Augsburg—for students of all faith and spiritual backgrounds, Tranvik said. FINDING THE RIGHT WORKPLACE ENVIRONMENT Another important part of the self-discovery journey is determining what types of work environments might suit you best, said Keith Munson, director of the Clair and Gladys Strommen Center for Meaningful Work. “You can get a job doing something you love, but if that job is not in the right place—the right work environment or culture—you won’t be able to sustain your motivation for the job very long,” he said. In other words, you need to pay attention to where and how your gifts will be used. A good way to learn about work environments is through informational interviews, Munson said. “Networking, of course, ensures that people learn more about you than can be picked up from your résumé, but that’s not the only reason to network,” he said. It is as important “for you to actually find out if a given company or department is a good place for you to work.” Determining whether a given work environment is a fit, however, requires that you understand what kind of work cultures and relationships are best for you. This involves self-reflection and, usually, some amount of coaching. But many students—and many adults in job transitions, for that matter—skip that step and just focus on securing a job. EXPANDING THE DEFINITION OF A “GOOD JOB” Munson said he understands why students (and their parents) think it’s important to get a “good job” after college. “For many students, following their passion without worrying or thinking about their income is not a realistic option,” he said. “I always tell these students that it’s okay for them to think about the realities of their career choices. You can be practical about those matters and still pay attention to the other piece”— the search for work and work environments that suits you—as well. “You’re looking for a job anyway,” Munson tells students. “Why not also try to find something that you are going to like to do?” In fact, Munson said, by actively seeking work environments that suit them, students tend to be more effective in the job search process. “When you are looking for something—and someplace—that’s interesting to you, you are likely to be more motivated in the job search,” he said. You’ll do more background preparation, seek more informational interviews, and ask more purposeful questions. In the end, Munson said, students shouldn’t think that they need to choose between following their hearts and getting a “good job.” You can— and should—do both. Fall 2013 11 AUGGIE VOICES Launching a new mission Augsburg College celebrated 56 Master of Social Work graduation candidates at the June 2013 Commencement, and it’s quite possible that Christine Dawson ’13 MSW was the only graduate who began her professional career as a mechanic. Shortly after high school, Dawson joined the United States Marine Corps where she spent three decades and worked in two distinct military occupations. While Dawson met her goals of traveling the world and doing something “most women didn’t do” at the time, she felt called to serve the Marine Corps troops—rather than Marine Corps vehicles—and began a new assignment as a licensed alcohol and drug counselor. This role turned out to be a perfect fit because of her ability to help “people go on to live their best life and achieve their goals,” she said. Dawson completed a 17-year tenure with the Marine Corps and served an additional 13 years in the Army National Guard where she continued work as a mental health specialist. When she approached military retirement, she returned to school to earn a graduate degree at Augsburg College, which offered her the opportunity to advance in her civilian career and integrate her military experience into a challenging professional role. Augsburg, she found, was a place that understood her desire to live a purpose-driven lifestyle and to embed meaningful service within her career. Military and veterans support CHRISTINE DAWSON ’13 MSW 12 Augsburg Now Many of Augsburg’s students with military experience enroll in an undergraduate or graduate degree program to build upon the education and training that were part of their military service. For other students, Augsburg is a way to prepare for a civilian career that’s unlike any past duties. Some students who have served in the armed forces are eligible for state and federal financial aid assistance to help pay for college. At Augsburg, more than 100 students with military experience are working one-on-one with the College’s Student Financial Services and Registrar’s offices to successfully claim their education benefits and get individualized help navigating complex eligibility rules. Augsburg College also directly supports these students by hosting an on-campus space for them to meet and by employing a Student Veteran Liaison who mentors peers and works to connect students with College resources. A.J. ANDERSON ’15 “We’re seeing more nontraditional-age students in our undergrad population and some of those people have been around the world and have served our country,” said Lori York, assistant registrar and Veterans Affairs certifying official. “A veteran’s sense of ‘a call to serve’ totally meshes with Augsburg, and we want to make sure they can make the most of their education here.” From call to campus During four years of Marine Corps service, A.J. Anderson ’15, Augsburg’s student veteran liaison, led an amphibious assault team as the crew chief for vehicles that he likens to those that carried troops onto Normandy beaches during World War II. At age 25, Anderson had reconsidered his decision to attend a large public university and left school to become a Marine. “I felt that joining the military was my calling for a little bit,” he said. “Other people backpack in Europe or just take a break. I went to war.” Anderson served around the globe and later joined the Marine Corps Reserve military police unit at Fort Snelling in St. Paul before he began thinking about his long-term career. He said his military experiences didn’t translate into a civilian profession, but—through his service— solidified his aspirations. He resumed his education and in 2012 transferred to Augsburg with a plan to serve his country in a new way. “I’m devoting my life to helping veterans,” he said. “I didn’t know I wanted to do social work until I got out of the military, so coming to Augsburg and working toward that goal is a big part of my life.” And, Anderson is getting a jumpstart on this career through his student involvement. “We know that peer mentors and peer leaders play an important role in students’ achievement,” said Ann Garvey, vice president of Student Affairs. “For example, student athletes serve on the Student Athlete Advisory Committee and Orientation Leaders welcome our new Auggies to campus. Our Student Veteran Liaison does outreach with a different group, but the premise is the same.” For Anderson, helping other veterans succeed at Augsburg College couldn’t be a better fit. “I want to give other students the tools I’ve been working with,” he said, “and make sure they have the support I’ve experienced.” From assisting veterans on campus to one day serving them as a clinical social worker, Anderson’s Augsburg education has prepared him for a meaningful career that aligns with his passions. And Dawson, who has been working with veterans for decades, shows that this path is clearly a worthwhile one. LAURA SWANSON Fall 2013 13 Augsburg College 2012-2013 ANNUAL REPORT TO DONORS Thanks to the generosity of our donors, Augsburg College realized another record year of fundraising in 2012-2013, with $19,367,258 received from more than 4,500 donors. This philanthropy helps Augsburg to attract gifted, engaged students and the talented faculty and staff who teach and guide them. Your gifts provide financial aid, building and maintenance support, and instructional and other resources that help Augsburg provide a quality education to more than 3,500 undergraduate and graduate students at our Minneapolis and Rochester, Minn., campuses—students like Zach Baltich, Jenna Leahy, and Hector Camarena. Zach Baltich ’14 is studying music performance. Originally from Ely, Minn., Baltich received the Sampson and Carlson scholarships. The Sateren and Gyllstrom scholarships were awarded to Jenna Leahy ’15, a music education major. Leahy is from New Richmond, Wis. 14 Augsburg Now Hector Camarena ’16, a physics major from Fridley, Minn., received the Grindal and Gjerde scholarships. 2012-2013 FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS REVENUE BY SOURCE Tuition 72% Room and board 12% Private gifts and grants 9% Government grants 4% Other sources 3% EXPENSES BY CATEGORY Salary and benefits 45% Financial aid 26% Operating expenses* 17% Debt service 3% Equipment and capital improvements 4% Utilities and insurance 3% Student salaries 2% *Expenses in this category include: facility repairs and maintenance, information technology expenditures, marketing expenditures, membership dues and fees, outside consultants, supplies, and travel and business meetings. $25.4 $34.6 $33.3 $32.4 $31.5 $27.2 $27.8 ENDOWMENT MARKET VALUE $29.8 $28.2 May 31, 2013 $34,552,615 $24.5 In the year ending May 31, 2013, the value of the endowment increased by 16.04 percent. Our five-year average annual return on the endowment is 2.24 percent and the ten-year average annual return is 4.22 percent. We are committed to maintaining the value of the principal and to providing support to the College in perpetuity. 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 (IN MILLIONS) Please visit augsburg.edu/giving/report for our 2013 Honor Roll of Donors. Fall 2013 15 [L to R]: Assistant Men’s Basketball Coach Charlie Scott ’08 and Head Men’s Basketball Coach Aaron Griess AUGGIES ON THE COURT [L to R]: Assistant Men’s Basketball Coach Charile Scott ’08 and Head Men’s Basketball Coach Aaron Griess Communication. Accountability. Service. Nine years ago, Aaron Griess moved from Pacific to the middle of the middle of the Paciﬁc the United States to become the Augsburg College men’s basketball coach. It was a path back to his Midwest roots and to a culture that values college athletics. “Living in paradise has its obvious advantages, but athletics just isn’t part of the culture in the same way it is in the Midwest,” said Griess about serving as coach at Chaminade University in Honolulu. “Here, lots of families go to games together, many kids grow up in organized sports.” Griess found in Augsburg not only a school that values the student-athlete experience, but also one whose mission refl ects his own vision for coaching and reﬂects leadership. “Coaching gives me a chance to instill important principles of life in the athletes I work with,” he said. “I want to provide these students tools that will help them succeed beyond the court. “My vision of success in coaching is fairly unique in this profession,” said the head men’s basketball coach. “I want 16 Augsburg Now to build a sustainable program of fi rstﬁrstclass leaders who don’t complain about challenges, and who solve problems. A team that consistently wins. A program that helps graduates land good jobs, and helps them understand the value of giving back.” Augsburg College Athletic Director Jeff Swenson said the program epitomizes what Augsburg College strives for throughout its teams. “Coach Griess and his staff exemplify what we want to see in all our sports—student athletes who display great athleticism and who work hard to achieve in the classroom and in the community,” Swenson said. “Griess’ program has helped studentathletes become leaders on and off the court during their time at Augsburg—leaders who stay connected and who give back when they graduate.” Griess also requires that players take seriously their academics. “We communicate throughout each semester about their academic progress. We expect our studentathletes to know exactly where they stand in their progress toward graduation,” Griess said. “They need to learn to be able to talk about progress or struggles, and to be able to communicate that with us, their professors, and families.” Mentoring and service work also are components used by Griess. Juniors and seniors help younger players understand the culture and values of the team. The team currently is part of an Adopt-a-Road program and is exploring the start of a reading program with a neighborhood school. The impact of Griess’ effort is visible in the players’ grades, the team’s standing, and the players’ actions after graduation. “Coach Griess’ guys are known for their work ethic. We never have to worry about his student-athletes meeting eligibility standards,” said Kelly AndersonDiercks, associate athletic director and compliance director. During his nine seasons with the Auggies, the team’s overall winning percentage steadily has climbed to .750. The team, which is a member of the Minnesota Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (MIAC), has made it to conference playoffs four times, twice reaching the semiﬁnals. semifinals. In 2012-13, the team earned a spot in the championship game. In the past ﬁve five seasons, the Auggies have won 65 percent of their games—the second-highest men’s basketball winning percentage in the MIAC for that time period. Griess’ work earned him MIAC Men’s Basketball Coach of the Year honors during the 2009-10 season. Assistant coach comes full circle The impact of Griess’ vision also can be seen in the growing number of players who contribute to the team and College after they graduate. One of the best examples of this can be seen in Charlie Scott ’08, who now serves as Griess’ assistant coach. Scott, who hails from Ely, Minn., was recruited as a fi ﬁrst-year rst-year student to Augsburg by former Coach Brian Ammann. Scott picked Augsburg because of its urban location, which he said allowed him to make campus as small or as large as he wanted. He played for Ammann for two years and for Griess for two years. Griess and Scott both acknowledge that at the time Griess arrived at Augsburg, just as Scott ﬁnished finished his second year as an Auggie, Scott wasn’t yet the leader he later grew to be. “When we met, Charlie wasn’t ready to be a team leader. He didn’t completely believe in himself because he hadn’t put in the necessary work. I talked to him about whether he wanted to be a leader,” Griess said. “I wanted him to take himself seriously, and to use the tools he had. I knew the players would follow him, but he had to become our team’s hardest worker.” Scott said he was ready, and he was in the weight room and gym every day the summer before his fourth year of college. He also talked to Griess every day, picking his brain for advice on how he could help the team and reach his potential. “Coach sparked the drive and determination in me,” Scott said. “When Coach shared his vision for how he wanted the team to be, I wanted to be part of that. I wanted to help the team accomplish its mission to be nationally known and respected as a ﬁrst-class first-class program and to cultivate student-athletes who understand the values of hard work, perseverance, honesty, integrity, and teamwork.” Scott was so committed to the success of the team that he wanted to stay involved even after his four years of eligibility expired. He served as a volunteer coach during the ﬁfth fifth year of college that it took him to ﬁnish finish his double major in ﬁnance finance and business management. After graduation, Scott continued to volunteer while working full time in ﬁnancial financial services. He gradually became a part-time coach. Then, when the opportunity to apply for the position of full-time, assistant coach opened up, Scott chased it. He was one of more than 100 applicants who wanted to work with Griess at Augsburg. “I look for leadership qualities in my assistant coaches, no matter whether they are volunteers, fellows, or paid coaches. They have to be willing to learn and work,” Griess said. “Charlie is the guy who jumps in and works as hard as anyone. He leads. He digs in.” Developing strong relationships with prospective families is one thing Scott is looking forward to as he works to fulﬁll fulfill his recruiting responsibilities. “I have a huge passion for Augsburg, for basketball, for working with Coach Griess,” Scott said. “I’m excited to meet prospective athletes and their families, helping them learn about Augsburg and our program, and decide whether Augsburg is the right place for them as it was—and is—for me.” While Scott exempliﬁes exemplifies a studentathlete turned servant-leader, he’s just one of Coach Griess’ players who is ﬁnding finding a way to give back to a program and school that means much to them. Some players give back by volunteering as Scott did. Others serve as a resource to students to help ready them for the working world, and some have hired qualiﬁed qualified alumni to work at their companies, knowing they are hiring people with shared ethics and determination to succeed—qualities honed on and off the basketball court at Augsburg. Others give back in the form of gifts to the College. Today, the two coaches are continuing to build a special program founded on communication, accountability, and service. They know that the program will support student-athletes in their studies and when they look for their ﬁrst first jobs. They also know that new recruits are coming to a college that will help them not only develop as an athlete, but also as a whole person. STEPHANIE WEISS Fall 2013 17 Courtesy photo A promising experiment in organic chemistry: MIXING TEAMWORK INTO THE COURSE LOAD Capitalizing on an opportunity to recreate Augsburg College’s advanced organic chemistry class, assistant professor of chemistry, Michael Wentzel, has developed a highly attractive approach to a complicated subject matter. He forces his students to work together. “Originally, I wanted to make it so everybody understood how to write a reasonable organic mechanism,” said Wentzel. “But after taking a step back, my major goals became communications, and group work, and teaching students how to work together and how to communicate better as scientists.” Each week Wentzel breaks his students up into teams of four. The groups are then given a simple assignment: prepare to send a randomly selected group representative to a guest lecture at the University of Minnesota. After the lecture, each group is required to put together a presentation on what they feel is the essence of the subject matter. “Every person got a chance to be the point person for his or her group,” said Wentzel, in reference to his first class. “I wanted to see people work together. To force them to be uncomfortable.” Inside the lab, Wentzel’s unique approach to teaching ensues. He delegates his workload by directing his students’ questions to other students. He assigns 18 Augsburg Now As for the class itself, Wentzel’s methods are driving enrollment. “You can imagine how many people are excited to take organic chemistry, let alone advanced organic chemistry,” joked Wentzel. “I think the most students to ever take the course at one time was maybe five students before I got it,” he said. “And now we have [another] 20 or at least 15 people for next year. It’s been exciting.” individual students specific pieces of lab equipment, has them write out instructions for that equipment, and then dubs them the go-to person for that instrument’s technical support moving forward. The results of this interactive style of teaching are compelling. “The biggest thing I’ve seen is the students are confident in talking about science,” he said. Using the confidence learned in his class, some of Wentzel’s former students have landed internships and entry into competitive graduate degree programs following graduation from Augsburg. Wentzel is clearly proud. “We had a Goldwater Scholarship winner and an honorable mention [this year]. These were kids that were in [my] classes,” he said. Editor’s Note: An integrated course design grant from Augsburg College’s Center for Teaching and Learning funded peer-review sessions and other opportunities allowing Wentzel to revise the advanced organic chemistry class. Reprinted with permission. Article by Phil Meagher for JoVE, the Journal of Visualized Experiments. JoVE is a peerreviewed journal dedicated to publishing methods and research in a visual format. MY AUGGIE EXPERIENCE Augsburg shifts student’s dream into high gear Trevor Rodriguez-Sotelo ’13 was the kid who was fascinated by anything with a steering wheel and motor. From a young age, instead of playing with Matchbox cars or Tonka trucks, he would tinker with real engines in his uncles’ garages. Later, when Rodriguez-Sotelo enrolled at Augsburg College, he had a clear vision of his dream: to work as an engineer designing automobile—specifically BMW—engines. He knew entering this highly specialized field was going to be a challenge, but he soon learned that Augsburg faculty and staff were eager to help him achieve his dream. During his first semester at the College, Rodriguez-Sotelo took Calculus Workshop, an elective course designed by Rebekah Dupont, the coordinator of an Augsburg program that seeks to increase the number of minority students who complete degrees in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Rodriguez-Sotelo said Dupont helped prepare him for success in college-level mathematics courses, supporting him inside and outside the classroom. She recognized RodriguezSotelo’s remarkable abilities and suggested that he take them to the next level through undergraduate research on campus, which he went on to conduct with Benjamin Stottrup, associate professor of physics. “Trevor came with a dream, and he had to slog through my biophysics lab to get to that dream,” said Stottrup, who for two years advised Rodriguez-Sotelo in the use of scientific instruments to measure resistance to flow in biomaterials. Rodriguez-Sotelo said he knew this research wasn’t linked perfectly to his automotive engineering interest, but would give him priceless experience. Part of Rodriguez-Sotelo’s on-campus research was made possible through Augsburg’s McNair Scholars Program, a federal grant-funded graduate school preparatory program to help ready underrepresented students for doctoral study. “Stottrup stressed writing skills even though we’re in the sciences,” Rodriguez-Sotelo said. “This helps you become more articulate and allows you to present yourself better— those skills are applicable in my future.” Rodriguez-Sotelo’s work on campus bolstered his offcampus research applications and opened the door to a prestigious summer automotive engineering position at Oakland University outside of Detroit, Mich. In addition to conducting research on and off campus, Rodriguez-Sotelo was a member of the men’s track team, was president of Augsburg Latin American Students and of As Trevor Rodriguez-Sotelo ’13 crossed the stage at Augsburg’s May Commencement, he celebrated a successful undergraduate experience that accelerated his ability to achieve his dream of becoming an automotive engineer. Augsburg’s Society of Physics Students chapter, mentored first-year STEM students, and more. “I had the opportunity to do all the academic, cultural and social activities I liked,” he said. “I was able to do everything because of personal and academic support from faculty and staff. I followed their advice, and they put me on the right path.” Rodriguez-Sotelo graduated last May, and in August took a step closer to achieving his goals by beginning a master’s degree program at the renowned Clemson University International Center for Automotive Research. He earned a competitive BMW fellowship, which will help fund his graduate studies and allow him to intern at BMW Manufacturing Co. next summer. He credits earning this award to his “whole body of work” at Augsburg. “The beautiful thing about Augsburg is that faculty and staff pay attention to their students…they care what kind of person I am and where I go after Augsburg,” he said. “Since I was a little kid, I knew this was where I wanted to be, and now I’m here—an automotive engineer.” LAURA SWANSON Fall 2013 19 IT’S NOT YOUR AVERAGE WEEK. IT’S HOMECOMING. 20 Augsburg Now Homecoming brings alumni, friends back to campus Homecoming 2013 reunited former classmates, friends, roommates, and professors, and invigorated the Auggie spirit in everyone in attendance. Traditional celebrations ensued, including the Homecoming Convocation with Distinguished Alumni Awards; the Taste of Augsburg event in Murphy Square featuring food, carnival-style booths, and bounce houses; and lively athletic events including an alumni baseball game and dugout dedication ceremony, as well as volleyball, soccer, and football games. The week also boasted the Eye-Opener Breakfast featuring Augsburg alumnus Dr. Paul Mueller ’84; reunion brunches; campus tours; an Athletic Hall of Fame induction ceremony to honor 2013 inductees; an Auggie Author book reading with Cheri Johnson ’99; a panel discussion about the Center for Science, Business, and Religion; and the Augsburg Associates luncheon with a presentation by Jacqueline deVries, Augsburg professor of history and director of general education. The merriment came to a close at the Auggie Block Party with live music and s’mores. Homecoming is just one of many ways for Augsburg alumni to stay connected to the College. If you are interested in serving on your reunion committee or volunteering to help plan next year’s events, contact alumni@augsburg.edu. For more information, visit augsburg.edu/alumni. AUGGIES AREN’T ORDINARY. NEITHER IS THEIR HOMECOMING. Fall 2013 21 ALUMNI AWARD RECIPIENTS First Decade Award Honors an Auggie who graduated during the past 10 years who has exemplified the mission of the College while achieving significant progress in his or her professional achievements and contributions in the community. Alexa Halford ’03 Halford, who graduated from Augsburg with a bachelor of arts in physics and mathematics, currently is a lecturer and postdoctoral researcher in physics at Dartmouth College. After graduating from Augsburg, she earned a master’s degree in astronomy and planetary sciences from the University of Colorado Boulder and a doctorate in physics at the University of Newcastle. Shortly afterward, she won a highly competitive Visiting Young Scientist fellowship from Dartmouth College. “Augsburg is small, but that’s what makes it so special. I have people here in my corner, and you will, too.” director from 1993-2001. “I’ve had the wonder of studying music for many years…it’s for Him we sing, to tell the wonders of His love.” Alan Rice Rice, an Olympic athlete and coach, is one of the most respected and honored men in U.S. Greco-Roman wrestling. He also is a member of the U.S. Wrestling Hall of Fame. He is a long-time friend and supporter of the College, and responsible for the worldclass Alan and Gloria Rice Wrestling Center in Kennedy Center. “I’ve been so privileged to be so involved in Augsburg. Thank you for allowing me to participate. Thank you, Augsburg.” Distinguished Alumni Awards Honors alumni in recognition of a significant achievement in their vocation, for outstanding contribution to church and community, and for leading a life that exemplifies the ideals and mission of the College. Spirit of Augsburg Award Honors alumni and friends of the College who have given of their service to substantially impact the well-being of Augsburg’s mission and programs. Alfred Reesnes ’58 Reesnes is dedicated to using his love of music to serve the College. For 33 years, he taught high school music and developed choirs noted for high-quality performance and literature. He was a charter member of the Augsburg Centennial Singers and assistant 22 Augsburg Now H. Theodore Grindal ’76 Grindal is former chair of the Augsburg Board of Regents and a partner in the law firm of Lockridge Grindal Nauen PLLP. He repeatedly has been recognized as one of Minnesota’s top lobbyists. “I’ve tried to follow five principles throughout my life: God, family, friends, work, and service. Remember who you are. Be true to yourself, be authentic, let that be your guidepost.” HOMECOMING 2013 Clayton McNeff ’91 McNeff is vice president of research at SarTec, Ever Cat Fuels LLC, Mcgyan Biodiesel LLC, and other family businesses. He is known as the co-creator of the patented Mcgyan process, which uses non-food sources to create biodiesel. “I dedicate this award to my mother, Marie Olive McNeff, and I urge you to use your gifts to help those around you. Work together to pay it back and pay it forward.” Roselyn Nordaune ’77 Nordaune is founder of the law firm, Nordaune & Friesen PLLC, and is known for her work in family law. She is a former member of the Augsburg Board of Regents and dedicated to engaging Augsburg alumnae in the philanthropic priorities of the College. “I pledge you: I’m not done yet. I pledge to Augsburg my work, my resources, my service.” IT TAKES AN AUGGIE Class Challenge spurs friendly competition among Auggies to build new academic building Alumni from throughout the decades have responded to a charge presented by Augsburg College Regent Wayne Jorgenson ’71 and former Alumni Board President Christopher Ascher ’81. The two men established alumni Class Challenges to create a friendly philanthropic-giving competition between their respective classes, and to invite all alumni to give back to the College to help build the Center for Science, Business, and Religion (CSBR). “Early gifts from alumni and friends of the College made it possible for each of us to experience a great Augsburg education,” Ascher said. “We are convinced. Now is our time to make the investment and help open doors for others.” “No other campus we know has created such an exciting intersection of disciplines—science, business, and religion—to serve students and forge a pathway to a better future for all of us,” Jorgenson said. Many classes already are involved in Class Challenges, and some have surpassed their goal of donating $1 million to the campaign. As of October 15, 42 classes had contributed more than $25,000 (see chart below). The Class Challenges, combined with a recent gift of $10 million from a member of the class of 1965, bring the CSBR fund to more than $25 million. The overall goal for the campaign is $50 million. To see the status of all Class Challenges—and to learn more about the CSBR—visit blogs.augsburg.edu/alumni. To join an existing Class Challenge or to start a new Class Challenge, contact Kim Stone at 612-330-1173 or stonek@augsburg.edu. Surpassed the $1 million challenge Contributed between $250,000-$499,999 Contributed between $50,000-$99,999 Contributed between $25,000-$49,999 1962 1965 1945 1956 1963 1968 1971 1972 1977 1950 1953 1955 1959 1961 1962 1964 1966 1974 1982 1991 1994 1946 1951 1954 1960 1969 1970 1973 1978 1986 1987 1998 2002 2014 Contributed between $500,000-$999,999 1981 1984 1985 Contributed between $100,000-$249,999 1957 1967 1975 1979 1980 1962 1977 1968 1972 1956 1965 1971 1984 1981 1963 1985 1945 Fall 2013 23 ALUMNI NEWS Dear alumni and friends, t hank you to those of you who participated in the alumni survey that was conducted earlier this fall. We received a tremendous response: More than 4,000 alumni records have been updated, and the Alumni Board is able to more effectively connect with alumni with whom we had lost touch. We’ve included many of the alumni updates from the survey in a special “Keeping Track of Auggies” Class Notes section on pages 24 to 30 of this issue of Augsburg Now. You can also discover information about your fellow Auggies in the recently relaunched Auggie Maroon Pages online. To open the door to this network, go to augsburg.edu/alumni and click “Auggie Maroon Pages.” This will take you to an overview page for the Auggie Maroon Pages, where you can click the “Sign In or Sign Up” button and log in or register as a new user. In reading all the wonderful notes sent in response to the survey, it is obvious to me that an Augsburg education has made a huge difference in the lives of our alumni! healthy and active at ages 89 and 86, respectively. Reprinted with permission from Duluth News Tribune FROM THE ALUMNI BOARD PRESIDENT Joseph T. Seto received a Congressional Gold Medal in 2011 in Washington, D.C., for Military Intelligence, Service Veteran WWII. Ebba (Johnson) Brooks recently was presented the Swedish Council of America’s Award of Merit. She was acknowledged in the Duluth News Tribune with an article and photo (above). Brooks is pictured in the center of the image. 42 Evelyn H. Sonnack Halverson married Dr. Bill Halverson on July 14, 2013. They honeymooned in Norway and England, and currently reside in Edina, Minn. 43 Mary Lou Nelson received a scholarship to Syracuse but got married instead. She is 90 years old, and a 50-year member of AAUW and LWV. 45 Jack E. Jacobsen was ordained as an Auxiliary Bishop in 2010 by the Ordaining Council of the Minnesota Graduate School of Theology. 46 Courtesy photo Sincerely, TRACY (ANDERSON) SEVERSON ’95 ALUMNI BOARD PRESIDENT Peter A. Lokkesmoe retired after 36 years with the Boy Scouts of America. Immediately after college, he served in the U.S. Navy. 47 Eugene Hasselquist was ordained in 1951 at Holy Communion Lutheran Church in Racine, Wis. He retired in 1987 from St. Paul Lutheran Church in Red Wing, Minn. 48 Augsburg Now iPad Edition Get the enhanced, interactive version of Augsburg Now on your iPad. Search “Augsburg Now” on the Apple App Store. Beatrice M. Walker moved to Otterbein North Shore, a senior continuing care facility. She and her husband, Tom, celebrated their 63rd wedding anniversary September 10. 49 24 Augsburg Now J. Forrest Anderson and his wife are blessed to be Arne Simengaard is blessed with a loving family of five daughters, 11 grandchildren, and two great grandchildren. Carol V. Larson, at age 85, was thankful to walk up the 203 steps of Florida’s Ponce De Leon Lighthouse. She and her husband have four sons: Gary Larson ’72, James Larson ’73, Daniel Larson ’77, and Fred Larson ’81. 50 Norman F. Nideng retired from his service in the U.S. Navy Chaplain Corps. James E. Christopherson served since 1954 as a Lutheran pastor, primarily in South Dakota. He and his wife have three grown children: John, Mary, and Tom. 51 Lillian K. Ose trained and worked as a medical laboratory technologist at Minneapolis General Hospital from 1951-57 when she married her husband, Kenneth. She worked at various hospitals and/or clinics in Minnesota until her retirement in 1994. Arvid D. Dixe published a book titled Come, Meet the Church, which included a foreword written by Minnesota journalist Jim Klobuchar. 52 Charlotte M. Rimmereid served for three years as a teacher in North Branch, Minn., where she directed two choirs and taught music, geometry, and algebra for grades 1-12. Dorothy Christopherson recently retired from serving 11 years as director of the women’s choir for First Lutheran 53 KEEPING TRACK OF AUGGIES Church of Sioux Falls, S.Dak. She also has directed choirs for children, youth, adults, and handbell ensembles. Minnesota. Their sons, Dan, Dave, and Brad, all work for Dart Transit. Daughter, Angie, is very busy at home with her three sons. 59 Reidun H. Newquist had several music therapy students from Augsburg observe at Michael Dowling School. Lawrence E. Gallagher and his wife, Barbara, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary in August. Gloria M. Thorpe and her husband, Gordon, celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary on August 23. Ellayne V. Velde-Conyers retired in 2011 but continues to write a weekly column in the Marshall Independent newspaper. She hosts a public access television program in Marshall, Minn., once per week, and was elected to the Marshall City Council in November 2012. 60 Lois A. Agrimson’s son Erick Agrimson ’98 welcomed son, Anders David Agrimson, on June 22, 2012. James N. Holden recently received the Distinguished Service Award from the Northfield (Minn.) High School Booster Club for support of the tennis program. Helen Witt is very thankful for her two years spent at Augsburg while earning her nursing education at Deacon’s Hospital from 1949-52, also being included in the class of 1953 at Augsburg College. Both the school and the hospital were a major influence in her life. Woodrow W. Wilson’s niece, Catha Jones, attended Augsburg and graduated in 1970. After graduation she was diagnosed with cancer and passed away. In 1975, her parents, Kenneth and Carmen Jones, endowed the Catha Jones Scholarship, which has supported 21 students who share Catha’s interest in elementary education and music. Herbert W. Chilstrom and his wife, Corinne, recently wrote Every Morning New—a book of devotional readings for every day of the year. 54 George W. Fisher and his wife, Mary, began their 18th year singing with the Lexington County (S.C.) Choral Society. George has played violin for 17 years and recently began learning clarinet. James W. Anderson taught music for 40 years and was a real estate agent for 27 years. Four of his children also graduated from Augsburg College. 55 Dorothy Devick worked for three years as a school teacher, then worked with her husband at their business. Beverly J. Oren and her husband have 12 grandchildren. All of their children have children of their own and live close to them in E. William Anderson taught at Bagley High School and Mound-Westonka High School. He has visited more than 100 countries. 56 Robert R. Lockwood was inducted into the Augsburg College Hall of Fame in 1994. He taught and coached for 42 years in Golden Valley and Hopkins (Minn.) District 270. At 82, he continues to spend his time swimming, skiing, biking, and golfing. Mark C. Thorpe retired from a lifetime of aircraft design work at McDonnell Aircraft, McDonnell Douglas, and Boeing in St. Louis. Oscar E. Olson taught for many years, including as a substitute for Willmar (Minn.) Public Schools. He partially retired to Bozeman, Mont., where he substitute taught for several years before moving to Billings, Mont. 57 Dennis E. Barnaal and his wife, Doris, in 2011 traveled to Norway and the Barnaal Farm/ Mountain Hotel with their children and children’s families. While in the Luther College Physics Department, he conducted three research sabbatical leaves in Norway, including one with Keith Anderson ’54. 58 Harland P. Danielson continues crop farming in Wisconsin. He and his wife have 10 children, 23 grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren. Luther A. Anderson is a founding board member of the Lake Region Writers Network, and serves as the managing editor of Lake Region Review, an annual regional literary magazine. Carol A. Casperson’s granddaughter, Harley Ann Fulton, was born on September 1 to parents Laura Casperson and Scott Fulton. Karen (Erickson) McCullogh in 2012 walked the pilgrimage route, Camino Frances, from St. Jean Pied de Port, France, to Santiago de Compostela, Spain. Philip Q. Bauman was blessed with three greatgranddaughters in 2013. 62 Arden Flaten with his wife, Alice, celebrated a 50th wedding anniversary in September. Dennis E. Glad continues to cocoordinate work teams for the United National Church to the Caribbean and Central America. Glad will lead work teams with the Caribbean Mission Cruise in 2014. Gordon L. Syverson retired in 2008 but continues to lead worship services. He welcomed grandchildren in 2011 and again in 2013. Lowell “Zeke” Zieman was honored by Marshall (Minn.) High School in April and inducted into the school’s Hall of Honor. Kenneth L. Akerman and his wife, Marilyn A. Akerman ’62, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary in 2012. 61 Larry B. Cowl practiced law for more than 30 years prior to his retirement in 2005. He continues to work part time as a legal consultant. James E. DeMars has been married to Susan for 52 years, and they have six grandchildren. Roger and Judy Lerstad Hill ’62 reunited with Gretchen Carlson at the Miss Minnesota/Miss America Sisters Reunion Gala held at the Radisson Blu in Bloomington, Minn., in June. Hill was Augsburg’s first Miss Minnesota in 1962, and Carlson was Miss Minnesota in 1987 and Miss America in 1988. Hill was the first Alumni Director for the Miss Minnesota Pageant from 1964-78. Glenn D. Peterson retired in 1997 after 35 years as a teacher of choral music in Rush City, Minn., and Duluth, Minn. In 2001, he founded Garden Street Landscape. 63 David D. Proctor was ordained into the Lutheran ministry in 1963. He served congregations in Ohio and Michigan before his retirement in 2000. Andrew M. Berg and wife, Jean, are retired near Willmar, Minn. They have visited 64 Fall 2013 25 all 50 states, Norway numerous times, and many European countries. Roger G. Johnson, a Minnetonka, Minn., native, was awarded Fergus Falls (Minn.) High School’s Hall of Fame award for Distinguished Service. Arla P. Landon retired in 1985. Jean S. Olson retired in 2011 following 23 years of service as an employee of the Minnesota Historical Society. her husband have done a lot of traveling around Colorado and the U.S., plus trips to Norway, China, Mexico, Costa Rica, and Hawaii. third grandchild, Bridget Erin Causby, on July 3. Their other grandchildren are Charles Lawton Ogburn, IV and Selah Eliot Ogburn. Adeline R. Sarkela is involved in volunteer ministry with church music and children. Jan Pedersen Schiff was honored and inducted into the Marin Women’s Hall of Fame for her community service as the founder and artistic director of Singers Marin. For the past 26 years, Pedersen Schiff has created structured programs to develop vocal skills that support musical development. When Harold J. Bagley graduated in 1966, he was the last (youngest) of several children of Rev. Emil G. Bagley ’49 to attend Augsburg College. He also was the first lawyer from a family of ministers, teachers, and social workers. 66 Carolyn E. Anderson celebrated 50 years of marriage with her husband, Don Anderson ’66, in September. 67 Larry G. Buboltz and his wife, Adrienne, recently celebrated 50 years of marriage. Larry served as the Director of Rural Minnesota CED, Inc. He was a member of the Detroit Lakes (Minn.) City Council from 1976-1988, and elected mayor from 1988-2008. Bruce L. Hansen is a retired English teacher from Minneapolis Public Schools, and now serves as a lay minister for his local church. Myrna J. Sheie retired in 2011 after more than 30 years working in the Twin Cities, Minn., and Chicago for the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) and the American Lutheran Church (ALC). Susan E. Ferguson earned her masters of theology in 2004 from Trinity Lutheran Seminary in Columbus, Ohio. Diane J. Tiedeman is retired from Bloomington (Minn.) Public Schools where she taught secondthrough fourth-grade students. Kay E. Jenness and her husband, Dave, moved from New Mexico to Washington to be closer to their family. Karen M. Alm recently retired after 31 years teaching elementary education in the Forest Lake (Minn.) School District. 69 Dennis D. Miller and his wife, Christine, are members of the faculty at Cornell University in Ithaca, N.Y. Miller serves as the chair of the Department of Food Science. Richard E. Cummings has been active in civic and service organizations, including the Stillwater (Minn.) City Council and, since 1983, Rotary International for which he is proud of his 30 years of perfect attendance. 65 Dennis D. Gray celebrated 50 years of marriage to Marilyn Rokke Gray on July 13. They have three sons and eight grandchildren. Carmen D. Herrick studied Norwegian at the University of Oslo International Summer School from 2008 to 2010. In 2011-2012, she attended Elverum Folkehogskole in Elverum, Norway. Marie D. McNally retired from her work as an English teacher. Her husband, Tom, continues employment as chief operating officer of Mount Olivet Lutheran Church in Plymouth, Minn. Diane S. Ristrom sang in a special choral concert in October with hundreds of alumni to celebrate the 100th birthday of Augsburg’s Leland B. Sateren ’35. Marlys Tron, retired, stays involved in her community through church activities and as chair of a polio support group. Richard E. Sandeen retired from teaching and coaching in Edina, Minn. Jerome Schaubach was inducted into Minnesota Cross Country Coaches Hall of Fame in 2013. Margaret P. Albright and her husband have two daughters. One is a kindergarten teacher in Bemidji, Minn., and the other works for Mayo Clinic in the Legal Department. 70 James Fischer was inducted into the Augsburg Athletic Hall of Fame and received the Excellence in Coaching award. Ric Hovda retired last June from San Diego State University, where he served as dean of the College of Education for six years. Prior to his work at SDSU, Hovda was dean of the College of Education at the University of Memphis. Susan M. Pursch was awarded the ELCA’s Tom Hunstad Award for Excellence in Youth and Family Ministry in 2007. She currently works as a development officer at The Cancer Support Community of Philadelphia, Penn. Mary J. Loken Veiseth retired last July following 24 years of work at Apple Valley (Minn.) Medical Clinic. 68 Lois J. Peterson enjoys living in Colorado, spending time with her grown children, friends, and family, and spoiling her six-yearold granddaughter. She and Paul A. Andell retired from his call of 39 years as senior pastor of St. James Evangelical Lutheran Church in Philadelphia, Penn. Mim Jacobson and Marian Korth were married in September in Augsburg’s Harbo Meditation Chapel. Charles A. Niles and Bonnie (Board) Niles ’71, welcomed their Glen J. Peterson has been employed for 27 years as the Augsburg Now Patricia A. Piepenburg was inducted into Augsburg’s Athletic Hall of Fame in 2011. Bonnie K. Risius retired during 2010. Jane M. Norman is a business coowner of Kultur Hus, a Norwegian heritage shop in Sunburg, Minn. 26 director of the Hyland Snow Sports Academy in Bloomington, Minn. Jane C. Bracken retired in 2012 from Cannon Falls (Minn.) Area Schools after teaching first grade for 41 years. She continues to work as an organist and pianist at St. Ansgar’s Lutheran Church in Cannon Falls, Minn. 71 KEEPING TRACK OF AUGGIES Wayne D. Jorgenson has long enjoyed Civil War re-enacting and studying the Civil War. He recently published a book on the First Minnesota Volunteer Infantry, titled Every Man Did His Duty. Janice K. Thompson retired in 2012 after 35 years of teaching. She enjoys traveling with her family, and she is the Pine Island, Minn., WCCO Weather Watcher. Darrell L. Skogen is in his 43rd year of teaching, with a goal of continuing until his 50th anniversary. He recently retired from 47 years of charting statistics for high school and college games, and from maintaining statistics for St. Michael-Albertville (Minn.) High School football. Clarence D. Anderson is a retired Air Force Bandsman stationed mostly in Northern California. 72 Robert A. Engelson’s son, Matthew, graduated from Luther College with a degree in music education this past May. Kristin P. Parbst Rohde retired in June. Scott J. Brown is a customer service specialist at Walser Honda in Burnsville, Minn. 73 Joyce L. Casey retired after 39 years of teaching elementary grades in the St. MichaelAlbertville (Minn.) School District. Mark A. Ladwig is retired and enjoying his grandchildren, running, playing viola, genealogy, and learning German. Beth C. Walen retired in January after more than 33 years of service as a flight attendant. 74 Debra D. Johnson has worked as a pediatrician and clinical geneticist for HealthPartners since 75 1985 and is the mother of two daughters. Patti (Edwards) Kramlinger was honored with the Claire E. Faust Public Service Award from Minnesota State University, Mankato, Minn. The award is presented to faculty or staff members in recognition of their years of dedicated service to the university, the Mankato community, the state of Minnesota, and the United States. Clifford G. McCann’s three children, Kevin, Meredith, and Allison, are married and he has three grandchildren. Heidi (Leaf) Haagenson recently was named vice president of Academic and Student Affairs at Anoka Technical College. 77 Ruth A. Underdahl-Peirce welcomed her first grandson, Cyrus Steven Richard, born to her daughter, Beth Underdahl-Peirce, on August 9 in Bloomington, Ind. Son, Jon Underdahl-Peirce, served in the Peace Corps in Burkina Faso, Africa, and now works for the U.S. Department of Labor in Washington, D.C. Roberta Aitchison Olson gets together with five of her former classmates and roommates on a regular basis, and cherishes lifelong friendships and professional support. They call themselves “chez nous” and started out by forming an intentional living community based on social justice principles: Megan Webster Stemper ’78, physical therapist; Jackie Goheen ’78, gardening business owner; Grit Youngquist ’79, health educator, adjunct professor at the University of Minnesota; Patty Frazier, psychology professor at the University of Minnesota; and Jane Bjorndal McAdams ’78, pharmaceutical compensation director. 78 Marion G. Hinz is an “empty nester” with her only child now in college in Chicago. 79 David L. Norgard was appointed a teaching faculty member in the Graduate Management program at Antioch University Los Angeles. 80 Roxanne K. Williams is in her 34th year of teaching physical education and credits Lavonne “Ma Pete/Mrs. Pete” Peterson for her skills in the classroom. Jennie Clark-Anderson is the executive director for the Living at Home of the Park Rapids (Minn.) Area, which helps seniors remain in the home of their choice. She performs with the Northern Light Opera Company and the Park Rapids Area Community Band. 81 Kyle A. Anderson’s daughter, Kaitlyn, married Peter Langston, Jr. on July 14 in Delwood, Minn. Both Kaitlyn and Peter are graduates of Bethel University. 84 Janet B. Bolm welcomed her grandson, Brody, on November 13, 2012. Brent J. Crego co-founded Comfort Love Care Assisted Living Operations. Crego helps nonprofit organizations care for their elder members while generating income. Charles K. Evans retired as a correctional police officer in 2013. Kathi A. Osmonson has a new job with the State Fire Marshal Division as the youth firesetting prevention and intervention specialist. Kirsten M. Schwappach is a fulltime proofreader at Medical Arts Press. She began her career as an assistant librarian at the Blake Upper School and a reference librarian at Hamline University. Liz Sheahan recently became the director of transformational gifts with Society of St. Andrew, a national nonprofit focused on getting fresh produce to hungry Americans. Jodi L. Holden is enrolled at Saint Mary’s University pursuing a master’s degree in counseling and psychology, and she expects to graduate in May 2014. Holden works as a career counseling graduate intern in the career and internship services center of the University of Minnesota. She holds an MBA in international management from the University of Dallas. 88 82 Lynda C. Ott has worked at Seward Montessori School for seven years, and many Augsburg students have volunteered in her fourthand fifth-grade classrooms. Ott and her husband, Peter, have two grown sons. Diane Wells received the 2012 Lifeworks Advocate of the Year award. Matthew Butler in 2013 was promoted to Lt. Colonel. Jacqueline E. Forrester is working to establish a nonprofit in her home country of Jamaica. The organization will provide food, clothing, and other services to children. Dan Wright and his wife, Kristen Haglund, celebrated the birth of their second son, Bjorn Arthur. Their first son, Johan Rowen, is now 8 years old. Dan is a senior applications engineer at Nike, Inc. and Kristen is a naturopathic physician. Michele L. Boyer and her wife, Melissa Conway, have two kids, Evan (age 10) and Rita (age 9)—both adopted from Nepal. They came home in 2003 and 2006. 89 Fall 2013 27 Michelle C. Goldberger is the program director of COR Retreat, a nonprofit spiritual retreat for food addicts. She is mother to five children ranging in age from 10 to 24. Marilee A. Mowry completed three degrees through Augsburg College and recently retired from teaching music and kindergarten in St. Paul Public Schools. She continues to teach piano and woodwinds in her home. Julie A. Edstrom accepted a new position in enrollment management at the University of Great Falls in Great Falls, Mont. Her son, Cameron, began his first year at Augsburg in August. 90 Joel B. Bue has an 18-month-old daughter and another baby due in February 2014. 91 Stephanie A. Trump is serving as adjunct professor of music at the University of NorthwesternSt. Paul, and she directs the Women’s Chorale. Madelyn D. Browne earned a Green Belt certificate at the University of St. Thomas in 2012. 92 Terri A. Burnor is a student at United Theological Seminary of the Twin Cities, and she will intern with two Unitarian Universalist congregations. Sharol Tyra, a professional certified coach at Life Illumination Coaching, was elected president of the Board of Directors, effective in 2014, for ICF Minnesota, a chartered chapter of the International Coach Federation. Marilyn J. Vick-Kalar is a working artist. She recently was crowned Mrs. Arizona International 2013 and competed in the Mrs. International competition in July. Throughout her reign as Mrs. Arizona International, McCune continues to support Adopt a Senior Citizen programs as her platfom and raise awareness for the nation’s growing senior citizen population. Lisa M. Zahn recently opened her own business as a Co-active Life Coach. Michael P. Schmidt married Steven A. (Bartkowicz) Schmidt in Decorah, Iowa, on April 6. Kristin A. Lehne is a physical therapist and works at Pediatric Therapy Services, Inc. in Mankato, Minn. 97 93 Summerei-Dawn Hamille is creating an original ballet to “Thumbelina.” 94 Beryl J. Deskin is semiretired and employed parttime as a business writer and facilitator. 95 Jennifer S. Kvidt welcomed son, Ethan, on February 13, 2012. Michelle Boyum Breen and Trenda Boyum-Breen legally were wed on August 1. Shari Hornseth welcomed daughter, Claire, on February 19. She joins big brother, Andrew. Shari is a social work MSHO manager with HealthEast. The family lives in Farmington, Minn. 99 Lillian Lillian Jane Jane Moore Moore was was born born January January 23 23 to to proud proud parents parents Anne Anne (Osberg) (Osberg) Moore Moore and and Scott Scott Moore, Moore, and and prouder prouder grandparents grandparents Jack Jack Osberg Osberg ’62 ’62 and and Nina Nina Osberg. Osberg. Kat Kat Wolfe Wolfe and and her her husband husband opened opened aa talent talent agency, agency, Wolfe Wolfe Talent, Talent, which which serves serves the the Twin Twin Cities. Cities. Robert P. Wasik retired from corporate life in 2012 and opened his own business in White Bear Lake, Minn. 96 Holly (Kolander) McCune, a Minnesota Vikings cheerleader for five years, recently was interviewed by the NFL Alumni Organization for its “Where are they now?” series. McCune lives in Scottsdale, Ariz., with her husband and twin daughters. Ryan R. Ball welcomed his son, Owen Ball, on February 20. 01 Jesse (Lipelt) Moen and Jason Moen ’98 welcomed daughter, Ada, on May 15. Emily Emily E. E. Larsen Larsen Scaglia Scaglia and and her husband recently her husband recently welwelcomed comed their their son, son, Logan Logan Thomas, Thomas, born on February born on February 10. 10. 02 Jacob Jacob M. M. Wegscheider Wegscheider welcomed welcomed aa daughter, daughter, Whitney Whitney Nichole, Nichole, on on June June 6. 6. She She joins joins brother, brother, Henry Henry Tate, Tate, born born April April 6, 6, 2011. 2011. Brian Brian L. L. Kuhl Kuhl graduated graduated summa summa cum cum laude laude from from the the University University of of Wisconsin Wisconsin Law Law School, School, fifinishing nishing in in the the top top 1 1 percent percent of of his his graduating graduating class. class. He He is is an an associate associate attorney attorney at at Mayer Mayer Brown’s Brown’s Chicago Chicago offi office, ce, aa proud proud husband, husband, and and aa father father of of aa fifive-year-old ve-year-old son son and and 10-month10-monthold old daughter. daughter. 03 Carl Grulke ’07 and Bart Rall ’05 graduated from Concordia Seminary in St. Louis, Mo. Grulke will serve as associate pastor at Christ Lutheran Church in Lincoln, Nebr., and Rall will serve as pastor at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Monterey, Calif. 28 Augsburg Now Mac Gordon and Nicki Gordon welcomed their daughter, Vivian, on May 16. She joins big brother, Foster. 00 Michael G. Hargadine completed his 18th year working for the St. Paul Public School system. Matt Matt Christensen Christensen and and his his wife wife Katie Katie Lindenfelser Lindenfelser ’02 ’02 welcomed welcomed their their baby baby boy, boy, Daniel Daniel Gordon Gordon Christensen, on Christensen, on January January 16, 16, 2012. 2012. They They are are working working to to build build KEEPING TRACK OF AUGGIES a children’s hospice and respite care home for kids with life-limiting conditions and their families, the first in the Midwest. Kari A. Badali and partner, Jodi, welcomed their first son, Oliver Joseph Badali-Winters, November 29, 2011. 04 Deanne M. McDonald performed as Rosalind in “As You Like It” in Chicago’s Hamlin Park with her theater company, The Traveling Players. Colleen R. Peterson welcomed son, Cole Lee Peterson, on August 5. Lauren Wood relocated to San Francisco, Calif., after accepting a position as an associate at the law firm, Glynn & Finley LLP. Her practice focuses on commercial litigation. Dallas Worth, and her husband, Jarod Worth, welcomed their son, Kainen David Worth, on June 15. Jennifer L. Galvin-Anderson published her memoir about overcoming cancer and traumatic brain injury, Crawl Walk Run, and welcomed son, Evan Craig, in 2012. 05 Bethany Stolle recently graduated from an interaction design and social entrepreneurship program at the Austin Center for Design. She won the Intel-sponsored Student Design Challenge at the Interaction Design Association’s annual international conference. Her concept was playful technology to support communication and connection for nonverbal people on the Autism Spectrum. Perry D. Mathison’s son, Alex, attended St. Thomas University and graduated in May of 2013 with a major in neuroscience. 06 David L. Nash is planning to pursue a fellowship and career in pediatric ophthalmology and strabismus. Sara Nash ’06 is a senior marketing coordinator for HDR Engineering. The couple is expecting their first child in February. Jennifer L. Annett married Douglas Annett on May 18, 2008. Their son, Julian, was born on October 7, 2010. 07 Lenette M. Baron is married to Jason with three daughters, ages 8, 5, and 3; another baby due in November. Therese M. Maas completed her master’s degree and graduated as adult-nurse practitioner from the College of St. Catherine. She is completing her doctorate of nursing practice degree at the University of Minnesota. Brooke H. Brown welcomed Morgan Elizabeth to her family in November 2012. 08 Chad Greenwaldt and his wife welcomed their third child, Nikolas Nielsen Greenwaldt, on April 10. Kevin M. Haglund graduated from the doctor of physical therapy program at A.T. Still University and began a physical therapist position at Spooner Physical Therapy in Fountain Hills, Ariz. Jessica H. Snider is teaching English as a Second Language (ESL) in Guanajuato, Mexico. Prior to teaching in Mexico, Snider taught in Istanbul, Turkey. Webster L. Ford teaches through the Minnesota Math Corps, and he is the sports director of a small-market radio station. 09 Shonna L. Fulford began a senior admissions counselor position at Augsburg College in the Office of Undergraduate Admissions. Cody Lewis Oaks graduated from Luther Seminary with a master’s degree in systematic theology. He and his wife, Melody, recently welcomed their first son, Theodore. Jenni Pickford is completing her master’s in philosophy at Northern Illinois University. She and her husband, Thomas R. Anderson, Jr., live in DeKalb, Ill. Ryan Sorensen and Kristi Castelic ’09 were married in Green Bay, Wis., on August 3. Ryan is the St. Francis High School boys’ varsity head coach and Augsburg men’s soccer assistant coach. Kristi is employed at DCM Services in Richfield, Minn. The couple resides in Maple Grove, Minn. Brett T. Thompson works fulltime as a customer service team member at Whole Foods Market in Minnetonka, Minn. Whitney P. Holman recently graduated from St. Cloud State University with a master’s in communication sciences and disorders. Holman received the Mary E. Weise Clinical Excellence Award and Plural Publishing Master’s Research Award for her work on Parkinson’s disease and pre-motor brain potentials, which was presented at the American Speech-Language and Hearing Association Conference. 10 Stephanie A. Hubbard married William (Will) Hubbard on May 4. Stephanie started a master of arts in music therapy program at Saint Mary of the Woods College in July. Roxanne L. Nelson is a loan document specialist at Wells Fargo. She and her husband, Miles Nelson, live in Bloomington, Minn. Augsburg librarian Mike Bloomberg was the officiant at their wedding, which included several other Auggies: mother of the bride, Teresa Lynch ’95; maid of honor/sister of the bride, Charlotte Johnson ’15; and father of the bride, Bruce Johnson ’68. Kirsten (Bar) Wells married Garth Wells on July 27 in Evergreen, Colo. Kirsten is a music therapist at Mountain Vista Retirement Community, and Garth is a helicopter pilot for Flight for Life. The couple resides in Evergreen, Colo. Jaclyn D. Willis became a certified trainer for Proloquo2Go assistive software, a communication program that helps those with speech impairments and with challenges in communicating with others. Jennifer L. Avery is a freelance muralist. She recently completed her first project for CND’s Nuts N Bolts, a machine shop in South St. Paul, Minn. 11 Fall 2013 29 Seth Lienard was named in the July/August SpecialEvents.com list of “25 Young Pros to Watch” for the admirable work he is doing and for his belief in the ongoing power of special events. School in Rockford, Minn., and Brett is a team lead in the Margins Department at the Royal Bank of Canada in Minneapolis. They live in Maple Grove, Minn. Ali Rapp finished her master’s in communication studies at the University of Minnesota, and began a position as product marketing specialist at Nintendo of America in Redmond, Wash. Angela L. Lee and husband, Adam, in August welcomed their son, Alexander Michael Lee. Andrew J. Witte’s undergraduate research is being reviewed for the Journal of Geophysical Research. Meghan A. Novak has a new job as executive team leader of hardlines at Target Corporation. She is engaged to marry Ryan Bachman ’13 in 2014. 13 John W. Truax welcomed son, Parker Wayne Truax, on July 14. Jessica and Stephen Westby welcomed daughter, Olivia Grace Westby, born November 23, 2012. Brett Quick and Jenna (Forbrook) Quick ’10 were married on December 1, 2012, at Incarnation Lutheran Church in Shoreview, Minn. Auggies in the wedding party were Steven Quick ’06 (best man), Ashley (Hovey) Holten ’10 (bridesmaid), Seth Lienard ’11 (usher), and Kendra (Christiansen) Oxendale ’11 (photographer). Jenna is a kindergarten teacher at Rockford Elementary Arts Magnet Kristin G. Bunge lived in Costa Rica earlier this year, teaching English through English Volunteers for Change. 12 Brittany A. Juntunen and Scott Hemann ’12 moved to Oklahoma City, Okla., where Juntunen teaches fifth grade as a special education corps member with Teach for America. She was accepted into Johns Hopkins Graduate School of Education. 100TH BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION A special choral concert in honor of Leland B. Sateren ’35, on what would have been his 100th birthday, took place on October 13 at Normandale Lutheran Church in Edina, Minn. Sateren taught at Augsburg from 1946 through 1979, during which time he also served as chair of the Music Department. Sateren was also a renowned composer, having composed hundreds of choral works. More than 180 Augsburg choir alumni, spanning four decades and coming from all over the U.S., participated in the concert, which was directed by several of Sateren’s former students, many of whom now serve as choral directors across the country. 30 Augsburg Now Mary Simonson Clark ’07 MSW recently received the David and Nancy Olson “Leadership for a Missional Church Award” at the Minneapolis Area Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Assembly. Sandra J. Laski ’07 MSW was awarded Veteran’s Administration national recognition for work on LGBT issues. Rachel Loftus ’10 MAE teaches math at Kennedy High School in Bloomington, Minn. Kirsten Spreck ’10 MAL recently accepted a new role at Thrivent Financial as vice president of talent management. Hector R. Matascastillo ’10 MSW began a private practice and recently developed a batterer intervention program for veterans. He received the Returning Veteran’s Resiliency in Response to Trauma award and the Veteran’s Voices award from the Humanities Center in Minnesota. Julie A. Lundberg ’12 MAN works in an enhanced critical care unit (E-ICU). She is the founder of the patient family advisory council, One World, which is dedicated to understanding health and wellness needs. Photo credit: Johanna Kitzman ’11, johannakitzmanphotog.wix.com/jkphoto Leland B. Sateren’s Graduate programs Christopher Annand ’09 MBA was named the global ethics and compliance program director for Cargill, Inc. and is responsible for representing and administering Cargill’s Code of Conduct. In memoriam Roy A. Johnson ’41, Fargo, N.Dak., age 94, on May 14. Sylvia (Sevig) Rovenko ’41, Minot, N.Dak., age 93, on February 21. Franklin John Skolos ’56, Bloomington, Minn., age 83, on January 30. Virgil Robert Gehring ’57, Eagan, Minn., age 82, on June 16. Muriel M. (Melhus) Rufsvold ’42, Lisbon, N.Dak., age 93, on May 11. Sylvia P. (Ostergaard) Dixen ’62, Circle Pines, Minn., age 74, on January 17. LaVille Caroline (Henjum) Larson ’44, Bozeman, Mont., age 89, on June 7. Robert “Bob” W. Tyson ’65, Murphysboro, Ill., age 69, on July 5. Mildred E. (Serstock) Boxrud ’45, Minneapolis, age 90, on June 1. Victoria Mae Koelling ’66, Fertile, Minn., age 68, on July 10. Edna Marion (Carlson) Johnson ’45, Yuma, Ariz., age 90, on July 24. Dale E. Sturzenegger ’66, Olympia, Wash., on June 2. Send us your news and photos Tell us about the news in your life, your new job, move, marriage, and births. Don’t forget to send photos! (Digital photos must be at least 300 dpi or a 1MB file.) For news of a death, printed notice is required, e.g., an obituary, funeral notice, or program from a memorial service. Send your news items, photos, or change of address by mail to: Augsburg Now Class Notes, Augsburg College, CB 146, 2211 Riverside Ave., Minneapolis, MN 55454, or email alumni@augsburg.edu. You can also submit news at augsburg.edu/alumni. _________________________________________________ Full name _________________________________________________ Maiden name Suzanne Marie (Lundeen) Matthews ’69, Minneapolis, age 66, on July 31. _________________________________________________ Class year or last year attended George M. Sverdrup ’46, Edina, Minn., age 88, on September 20. Christine E. (Hansen) Scott ’70, Glasgow, Ky., age 64, on July 24. _________________________________________________ Street address Ruth G. (Pederson) Cashman ’47, Margaretville, N.Y., age 88, on July 13. Brian Christian Nielsen ’74, Cold Spring, Minn., age 60, on January 3. Theodore “Ted” LeRoy Anderson ’48, Iowa City, Iowa, age 89, on April 26. Mary Jean (Clapp) Overend ’74, Grand Rapids, Minn., age 85, on July 21. _________________________________________________ Home telephone Calvin Bryan Hanson ’48, Bellingham, Wash., age 87, on May 10. Susan Heidi (Thorkelson) Ryan ’74, Ivanhoe, Minn., age 61, on July 6. _________________________________________________ Email Ravonna Deon (Nelson) Lassle ’48, Sioux Falls, S.Dak., age 86, on June 30. Doris Winnifred (Larson) Sunde ’74, Maryville, Tenn., age 86, on January 4. Barbara A. (Schindler) Berg ’49, Janesville, Wis., age 85, on May 31. Joseph Rafael Becquer ’85, Naples, Fla., age 50, on April 20. Erling M. Helland ’49, Olmsted Falls, Ohio, age 87, on April 12. Kathleen George Tobin ’87, Minneapolis, age 90, on July 12. Marilynn Avenell (Halvorson) Parker ’50, Trempealeau, Wis., age 86, on June 2. Keith Emmet Hanrahan ’89, Minneapolis, age 53, on May 27. Wedel Daniel Nilsen ’45, Cape Girardeau, Mo., age 90, on July 5. Joann (Wicklund) Welinski ’50, Northfield, Minn., age 85, on July 19. Harold Roy Schafer ’51, Windsor Heights, Iowa, age 91, on August 15. Eleanor Marian (Landsverk) Gargrave ’52, Northfield, Minn., age 82, on July 24. Jerome “Jerry” M. Engseth ’53, Elm Grove, Wis., age 82, on August 4. Richard “Dick” John Larson ’54, Litchfield, Minn., age 80, on June 1. 26 Ray Stanley Ganyo ’91, Grand Forks, N.Dak., age 52, on July 27. _________________________________________________ City, State, ZIP code Is this a new address? ❑ Yes ❑ No Okay to publish your email address? ❑ Yes ❑ No _________________________________________________ Employer _________________________________________________ Position _________________________________________________ Work telephone Is spouse also a graduate of Augsburg College? ❑ Yes ❑ No If yes, class year_____________________________________ Jill Marie (Sculthorp) Stich ’96, Hudson, Wis., age 43, on May 20. _________________________________________________ Spouse’s name (include maiden name, if applicable) Ann Kristin Johnson ’00, St. Paul, age 49, on July 21. Your news: _________________________________________________ Leslie Kathlene Lynch ’04, Savage, Minn., age 54, on March 22. _________________________________________________ Settar M. Altiok ’09, Plymouth, Minn., age 43, on February 11. _________________________________________________ ❑ I know a student who is interested in attending Augsburg. Regent Emerita Marie Olive McNeff, Anoka, Minn., age 76, on August 23. Fall 2013 31 IN MEMORIAM Lifelong teacher. Pilot. Regent. Dean of Academic Affairs. Mom. Entrepreneur. Cook. These are only a handful of words and titles that describe Marie Olive McNeff, a dedicated leader in the Augsburg College community for nearly 40 years, who passed away August 23 at her home following a yearlong battle with cancer. McNeff’s commitment to the College crossed all departments, but started in 1968 when she was a member of the Education Department. McNeff taught for 27 years in the College’s elementary education, adult undergraduate, and Master of Arts in Leadership programs. “Marie’s willingness to think ‘large’ and beyond traditional bounds and take calculated risks serves as a model for all of us in the Education Department,” said Vicki Olson, director of the Master of Arts in Education program, in a 2001 nomination of McNeff for the Spirit of Augsburg Award. “Always we have been challenged by Marie’s ‘reach for the stars’ attitude,” Olson said. “She pushed, prodded, and encouraged us to think large. Sometimes we could, often we couldn’t. As I grow older, I find that those stars don’t seem as far away, and that is largely due to the conditioning and practice that Marie has led me through.” In 1995, McNeff was appointed vice president of academic affairs and dean of the College. She left this position in 1999 to spend her last year prior to retirement as Augsburg’s academic master planner, creating a blueprint to implement the academic provisions of Augsburg 2004, a College vision document. She was elected to the Board of Regents in 2005 and served in that position until her retirement. “I became Marie’s student when I arrived at Augsburg and slowly realized that this remarkable woman did indeed have the heart of a teacher. She did strive each and every day to create opportunities for learning—learning that was grounded in community, learning that was lifelong, learning that changed lives,” said Augsburg College President Paul C. Pribbenow in his eulogy for McNeff. 32 26 Augsburg Now Archive photo Marie Olive McNeff “I was invited into her extended classroom, where she taught me about Augsburg and its deeply held values—about community and shared leadership and walking the talk. She taught me about ways in which a small business such as SarTec can partner with a college like Augsburg to serve our mutual needs and aspirations. She taught me to dream big and then give away what you find. She taught me courage and resilience.” McNeff’s reach extended into many areas outside of Augsburg, most notably in her commitment to McNeff family businesses where she served in varied roles, including as assistant to the president at SarTec Corporation, president of McNeff Research Consultants, and member of the Board of Directors of Ever Cat Fuels. It was in her role with SarTec that McNeff’s commitment to mentoring, leadership, and hospitality was again made evident. Every day McNeff prepared lunch for employees of the company. Staff and family would gather in fellowship and community just upstairs from the offices. McNeff was a graduate of Genoa High School in Genoa, Nebr., and earned bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees in education from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. She was a member of the Anoka United Methodist Church and held a private pilot’s license. As an educator, leader, entrepreneur, and philanthropist, McNeff was deeply committed to the vision for the Center for Science, Business, and Religion, and the McNeff family is a great benefactor of the College. She was preceded in death by her parents and a brother, LeRoy Rockey. She is survived by her sister, Marece; her husband, Larry; her son, Clayton ’91, and daughter-in-law, Denise; and three grandchildren: Charles, Alexander, and Bridget. Memorials may be directed to the Augsburg College Center for Science, Business, and Religion (augsburg.edu/giving). An Augsburg Legacy: Dr. Paul and LaVonne Batalden ’63 Since their graduation in 1963, Paul and LaVonne Batalden have seen Augsburg grow and change, and—at the same time—have appreciated the ways in which the College upholds its founding traditions. The Bataldens attend several Augsburg events each year, and—as the holiday season approaches—recognize that the upcoming Advent Vespers services and on-campus Velkommen Jul celebration play an integral part in many Auggies’ annual traditions. We hope you are able to take part in these treasured Augsburg celebrations. And, whatever your plans, we wish you a blessed holiday season. To learn more about Velkommen Jul and Advent Vespers, go to augsburg.edu/now. Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Twin Cities, MN Permit No. 2031 2211 Riverside Avenue Minneapolis, MN 55454 Charles S. Anderson Music Hall This fall, Augsburg renamed its music building the Charles S. Anderson Music Hall to honor the legacy of the College’s eighth president (see story, page 6). To watch a stop-motion video of the building sign installation, go to augsburg.edu/now or scan the QR code.
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Title: Augsburg Now Summer 2013: Auggies Shape Our World
Collection: Alumni Magazine Collection
Search Result: inside AUGSBURG NOW Augsburg Commencement 2013 Student success and achievements Hybrid teaching and learning Auggie teachers shape our future New women’s lacrosse program SHAPE oUr WORLD SUMMER 2013 | VOL. 75, NO. 3 auGGiEs Vice President of Marketing and Communication NOTES from P...
Show more inside AUGSBURG NOW Augsburg Commencement 2013 Student success and achievements Hybrid teaching and learning Auggie teachers shape our future New women’s lacrosse program SHAPE oUr WORLD SUMMER 2013 | VOL. 75, NO. 3 auGGiEs Vice President of Marketing and Communication NOTES from President Pribbenow Faithful and Relevant During the past several months, Augsburg’s Board of Regents has invited the campus community into a strategic mapping process focused on our priorities and aspirations leading up to the College’s sesquicentennial in 2019. Fittingly titled “Augsburg 2019,” the plans emerging from extensive research and conversations are aimed at enabling the College to live into a vision we have stated this way: In 2019, Augsburg will be a new kind of studentcentered, urban university, small to our students and big for the world. As we have engaged in this important strategic work for Augsburg, I have been struck by the synergy we have found between what it means to remain faithful to our core values—our Lutheran faith, the liberal arts, diversity, and urban life—while at the same time looking for ways to be relevant in the world—equipping students for lives of meaning and purpose in the 21st century. Some might note the paradox in such a framework—faithful and relevant—but as good Lutherans, we know well how to live as people centered in the gifts of our faith and of service to God’s good creation. It seems especially fitting that this issue of Augsburg Now includes a meaningful tribute to Charles Anderson, who served as Augsburg’s eighth president from 1980 to 1997, and whose legacy is very much the foundation for the College’s work today and in the future. Chuck Anderson believed deeply in the College’s Lutheran heritage. He was a tireless advocate for the liberal arts. And he made the College’s urban setting an even more central part of its daily life and work. At the same time, Chuck paid close attention to the needs of the world. He championed Augsburg’s ground-breaking Weekend College for adult undergraduates, its Rochester campus, the StepUP® program for students recovering from addictions, Rebecca John rjohn@augsburg.edu Integrated Communication Specialist Laura Swanson swansonl@augsburg.edu Creative Director Kathy Rumpza ’05 MAL rumpza@augsburg.edu the CLASS program for students with learning challenges, the Center for Global Education, and the College’s first graduate programs. Chuck also set the stage for Augsburg’s commitment to intentional diversity, a commitment that has been realized in the increasing diversity of our student body during the past several years. Chuck Anderson’s legacy of sustaining Augsburg as a faithful and relevant institution may be best captured in our new vision statement. He put students at the center of the College’s life. He cared deeply for the urban neighborhoods around campus and saw them as an extension of the classroom. And he watched over the expansion of Augsburg’s academic programs, leading to the comprehensive range of undergraduate and graduate programs that characterize the College’s academic profile today—the profile of a small university, a new kind of 21st century university. As this issue of Augsburg Now so powerfully demonstrates, this vision is very much alive and thriving on campus and around the world today: Keeping students at the center of our lives through scholarships made possible by the generosity of remarkable alumni like Milt Kleven ’46. Students and faculty achieving at the highest level and being recognized nationally and internationally for their work. Innovative new curricula, aimed at sustaining Augsburg’s abiding commitment to face-to-face instruction, while at the same time using technology to enhance student experiences. Augsburg’s ground-breaking work to educate teachers for diverse schools, bringing the best of new classroom methods together with the College’s strengths in the sciences and mathematics. And so much more. It is a great time to be an Auggie! Augsburg is a new kind of 21st century university. Small to our students—the reasons we exist—and big for the world. Thanks for all you do to help keep Augsburg faithful and relevant