Concordia Connection: Summer 2015

ConcCoonrdneication P O R T L A N D, O R E G O N • S U M M E R 2 0 1 5 MOMENTUM

Momentum is the strength or force gained by motion or by a series of events. It’s also the topic of our Concordia Connection magazine, and a fitting one for this phase in the evolution of Concordia University-Portland. When we reach a state of sustained motion over time, it isthe result of overcoming challenges, pressing forward, prayer, and tenacity. Our endurance grows, and,at times, we feel a state of exhilaration – even bliss. “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do notgive up.” (Galatians 6:9 NIV) The tremendous academic vision and leadership provided by the deans of our five colleges and ourfaculty, is advancing Concordia Portland in new and exciting ways, which you’ll read about in the pagesthat follow. Their drive to teach, learn, and serve stems from a firm foundation of faith and commitmentto advancing Lutheran values. In turn, our students gain the opportunity to engage in experientiallearning, at home and abroad, that supports their studies as we live out our core values. And speaking of momentum, 3 to PhD® has hit its stride. The time is now to join us in building anew model for Pre-K – 12 education and teacher readiness as we prepare leaders to change the world. Our far-reaching family brings tremendous gifts of the Spirit to bear at Concordia. We thank Godfor you. Your outpouring of prayers and supports empowers us to press on. Because of you, our forwardmotion is inspiring, and, by God’s grace, we work to continue this momentum. For His Students, Dr. Charles E. Schlimpert President, Concordia University-Portland

P O R T L A N D, O R E G O N • S U M M E R 2 0 1 52 Campus Life. Take a journey to South Africa to discover the true impact of a master’s degree; see how a Concordia professor uses a time-travel app to recreate an Oregon city destroyed by disaster; and celebrate the life and legacy of Rev. Dr. Arthur Wahlers. The momentum continues as Concordia University School of Law receives ABA provisional approval and nursing program earns national accreditation. Plus an update on 3 to PhD® and more. 8 A Force To Be Reckoned With. Concordia University is gaining steam! Meet an impressive student from each college and learn how their internship, practicum, mentorship, or student teaching helped them prepare to lead and serve their communities. 16 Current Issue. Experience meets empathy. Concordia students SUMMER 2015 learn what it’s like to walk in the shoes of someone in poverty – providingConcordia Connection is published twice per year by life-lessons for their future as caregivers. Concordia University in Portland, Oregon. 18 Alumni Notes. Speaking fluent teenager has PLEASE ADDRESS ALL CORRESPONDENCE TO: Concordia Connection helped one Concordia alum work wonders in the classroom; Concordia University former Concordia student-athlete becomes men’s basketball associate head coach; plus the latest about life 2811 NE Holman Street after Concordia straight from alumni themselves. Portland, Oregon 97211 or email: [email protected] Navy & White. Say goodbye to retiring golf coach 24 SENIOR EDITOR: Shari Altree Ronn Grove and hear his amazing story of drive and perseverance. Learn more about the re-established COPY EDITOR: Todd Duvall student-athlete advisory committee. Then meet Concordia’s new athletics director. Plus a recap of all winter and spring sports, including several trips to nationals. ART DIRECTOR: Christine Dodge 29 Nailed to the Door. After another class of Concordia students cross the stage and graduate, Rev. GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Katrina Dinges Dr. Phil Brandt shares his thoughts on witnessing a great beginning. PHOTOGRAPHER: Phil Sedgwick EDITORIAL BOARD:Rev. Dr. Phillip Brandt, Dr. Michelle Cowing, Jason Dormeyer, Kelly Hartley, Rev. Dr. David Kluth, Kevin Matheny, Chrissy Purcell, Dr. Sheryl Reinisch, Cathy Silak, David Sadler, BeckySprecher, Dr. Sarah Sweitzer, Madeline Turnock, Gary Withers Summer 2015 1

Campus LifeA Connection Spanning 10,000 MilesConcordia University-Portland awards 24 Master’s Degrees in South AfricaEducation today is more global the students along with several family in South Africa. Listening to the than ever before. Nowhere is members. Bishop Dr. David Tswaedi students’ stories and hearing theirthat more evident than at Concordia of the Lutheran Church of South plans gave me absolute confidenceUniversity-Portland. Through our Africa delivered the invocation and that the MEd program fromonline education program, 24 closing prayer. Concordia University-Portland willeducators from across South Africa Both Smith and Reinisch said that be life-changing for the children ofrecently completed their master’s meeting the students and hearing South Africa. This diverse group ofdegrees in education. Dr. Glenn their stories was the best part of the graduates expressed a positive visionSmith, executive vice provost, and experience. Reinisch noted “The for the future and we see God’s handDr. Sheryl Reinisch, dean of the students appreciated how they could at work in their lives.”College of Education, traveled to take what they learned in their courses Reinisch continued, noting, “It’sJohannesburg, South Africa in online and apply it in their class the amazing to see how they’re usingJanuary to confer the degrees. very next day. Their enthusiasm and what they learned and making a passion were contagious.” difference in their classrooms andCHANGING THE WORLD, ONE Smith echoed that, saying, “I have within their communities – changingGRADUATE AT A TIME no doubt that these graduates will the townships where they live and An intimate commencement transform the educational system teach. These graduates are alreadyceremony was held at the DaVinci making a positive impact.”Hotel & Suites in downtownJohannesburg, and included »JANUARY 19, 2015 FEBRUARY 2 – 6, 2015 Concordia University hosted a kick-off rally for 800 Students participated in a number of workshopsstudent volunteers from 10 universities who participated all designed to prepare them for life after college. Everything from how to master the art in Oregon Campus Compact’s Collaborative Day of of the job interview, rent an apartment, or even Service. Students volunteered with 25 different service maintain a healthy lifestyle after graduation. organizations for the MLK Day of Service. 2 concordia connection

Campus Life MAKING A REAL DIFFERENCE has changed for the better. I can make apartheid movement. They were Graduates, each wearing Concordia a bigger difference in the lives of my confined to using the Afrikaans cap and gown, were clearly excited to students and colleagues.” language and they wanted to speak have completed their studies and Nompithizelo Mapingana, holding English. High school students led earned their degrees. Of these her Concordia diploma, said, “Today the fight. Now, by advancing their educators, 71 percent graduated with I’m a better leader, a better teacher, education and receiving the tools a 3.9 grade point average or higher, and I have all the skills I need for the they need, these teachers will be able and six students had a perfect 4.0 GPA. classroom.” to educate, inspire, and lead the way “I am the first person in my And new graduate Ponjul Zwala, a for a new generation.” family to earn a master’s degree,” said South African husband and father, graduate Samantha Streak. “It is an noted,“My favorite part of the program IGNITING THE FIRE honor. If you have an opportunity was getting to meet my online So what does it mean to get a like this, take it with both hands. classmates and form relationships. graduate degree from Concordia It’s a gift that can keep on giving to I just met one of them in person University’s in South Africa? New children forever.” for the first time and it’s like we’ve MEd recipient and graduation Another graduate, Eileen Pretorius, known each other forever. These are speaker, Bronwen Griffith, summed said, “My whole outlook on education lifetime relationships. To me, this was it up like this: “This past year has the most exciting part of the program.” ignited a fire in my spirit to see our“It’s amazing to see how education system uplifted, to be real they’re using what they NOT YOUR TYPICAL COMMENCEMENT and relevant to the present generation learned and making Once the ceremony was over, and for those to come, but more so to a difference in their students, guests, family members, ignite a new spark in fellow educators. classrooms and within and Concordia faculty enjoyed each We have all been empowered with the their communities – other’s conversation and company new knowledge, ideas, methodologies, changing the townships over dinner, talking long into the night. and teaching strategies that we need where they live and According to Reinisch, the next to use to spark and rekindle that teach. These graduates morning, it was time for a safari. “How inner fire! My prayer is that you… are already making a wild is that?” she says with a laugh, start thinking creatively in order positive impact.” “Graduation on Friday, safari on to be agents of change within the Saturday.” The group saw a herd education system in South Africa.”  » Dr. Sheryl Reinisch, dean of elephants so close “we College of Education could have reached out and touched one.” Plus unique birds, giraffes, and lions laying no more than five feet from the Jeep. In addition, they visited Nelson Mandela’s home in Soweto. “Desmond Tutu’s home is on the same block,” noted Smith. “Students led the beginning of the »FEBRUARY 7, 2015 MARCH 7, 2015 Internationally acclaimed author Ursula For parents and guardians of children with special needs, finding time K. Le Guin visited Concordia for a book to do something as simple as go to a movie, read a book, or run errands reading and signing. Le Guin has written more than twenty one novels and was recently can be a challenge. To give these caregivers a much-neededawarded the National Book Foundation Medal for “respite,” the College of Health and Human Services hosted Distinguished Contribution to American Letters. its fourth annual Respite Day with special support from Bethesda Lutheran CommunitiSesuamndmTehrriv2e0nt1F5inancial. 3

Campus LifeTime Travel? There’san App for ThatProfessor Shawn Daley Uses Technology ToRecreate an Oregon City Destroyed By Disaster A great blue heron flies over the Just six years later, Vanport lay That’s exactly the experiencelush greens at Heron Lakes Golf in ruins. In May of 1948, a 200-foot Daley and Blanchard are workingCourse in north Portland. It’s hard section of the dike holding back the to create with Vanport’s history.to imagine that just 67 years ago, Columbia River collapsed, flooding Using an augmented reality softwarea bustling city with thousands of the city – killing 15 and leaving the called Metaio Creator, Daleyresidents once occupied this quiet post-wartime population of 18,000 and Blanchard enter geographicand serene location. people homeless. coordinates into a spreadsheet The year was 1942. The United and “augment” that location dataStates was at war against Germany DEEP EDUCATIONAL WATERS with relevant images and historicaland Japan. On the home-front, With his focus on history and information. Before long, visitorspeople everywhere were doing their educational technology, Concordia to locations like Heron Lakes Golfpart to help the war efforts. Here Chief Innovation Officer and Assistant Course – located where Vanport’sin northeast Portland, that meant Professor of Education, Shawn busy main street used to be – willbuilding Liberty ships. Daley, saw the Vanport story as an be able to use their phones to scan With an influx of people to the extraordinary teaching opportunity. for historical “targets” and findarea came a need to house them – In addition to the “Voices of Vanport” information that brings Vanport andquickly and cheaply. In December of project he’s coordinated with 8th its citizens back to life.1942, at the current site of the golf grade teacher Kirsten Parrott at “Matt and I hope to use our workcourse, Delta Park and the Portland Beaumont Middle School, he and with Metaio as a national, replicableInternational Raceway, construction Concordia master of arts in teaching model for classroom work. Webegan on public housing for the student, Matt Blanchard, are utilizing want to produce a few articles forworkers at the wartime Kaiser “augmented reality” software to educational journals that guideShipyards in Portland and Vancouver, document Vanport’s history. other teachers on how to use this.”Washington. The area that sprang upwas called Vanport City, and during HISTORY ON THE LINEthe war year, more than 40,000 people The technology that allows yourcalled Vanport City home – making cell phone to use your location to helpit Oregon’s second-largest city and you find the nearest coffee shop canthe largest public housing project also be used to recreate history.in the nation. It was also Oregon’s Imagine standing on a busy streetmost diverse city, with 40 percent of in Rome and, through your phone,the population made up of African- seeing images of artifacts andAmericans who moved to the area historical records that show you whatfrom other states. happened in that exact spot 50, 100, or 1,000 years prior. MARCH 7 – 14, 2015 « MARCH 12, 2015 Concordia students, faculty, and staff celebrated The entire Concordia community helped diversity through a variety of engaging facilitated make a wish come true for high schooldiscussions, as well as through film, music, dance, and more. Diversity Week gave the entire campus senior Angelica Ponce. As part of thecommunity an opportunity to reflect on the different values Make-A-Wish program, Angelica’s 4 and cultucreosnthcaot rmdakiae ucpothnenfaebcritcioofnour university. wish was to come to Explore CU – and we welcomed her in style!

Campus Life “I’m a firm believer, and so is The Momentum Continues…Matt, in leveraging technologyto help make history more Concordia University School of Law Receivesinteractive. We both believe that ABA Provisional Approvalthere is opportunity here to helpkids access not just the historical Concordia University School of milestones we set out to accomplishrecord, but also access the process Law has gone from vision to reality, for our students and for the greaterof doing historical work in a new earning provisional approval from community.”and invigorating way.” the American Bar Association (ABA). Concordia University School of The ABA is the national accrediting Law graduates are able to take anyTECH ED agency authorized by the U.S. state’s bar exam, and are treated Daley’s work with Vanport’s Department of Education. the same as graduates of all ABAhistory exemplifies Concordia’s “I’m delighted the ABA has approved law schools. Concordiacommitment to providing its recognized Concordia Law’s Law’s inaugural graduates will takeeducation students with the most commitment to offering the highest the Idaho state bar exam in Julyup-to-date teaching methods – quality legal education,” said and will celebrate commencementespecially in regards to technology. Concordia Law’s Dean, Cathy Silak. ceremonies on August 8th.As a master of arts in teaching “In our third year of operation, Congratulations to all! student at Concordia, Blanchard we continue to achieve the keyhas had the opportunity to helptransform existing marketing Concordia University-Portland Nursing Programtechnology into an innovative and Earns National Accreditationfun learning tool. What’s more,along with Daley, he will get to Concordia’s nursing program aid. It also allows our graduates toshare the insights he’s gained with received accreditation by the choose nursing jobs in the federalother education professionals Commission on Collegiate Nursing government (military, VA, andacross the U.S. Education (CCNE) – recognized by others), and offers a smoother path to Daley’s and Blanchard’s work the U.S. Secretary of Education as graduate nursing programs.”also underscores Concordia’s the national accreditation agency Thanks in large part to the hardcommitment to service and to ensure the quality and integrity work and dedication of previousconnection in the community. By of baccalaureate, graduate, and Nursing Director, Dr. Becky Boehne,bringing middle school students residency programs in nursing. the nursing program was awardedand survivors of a terrible local According to Concordia’s Interim the maximum five-year term fordisaster together, the students get Nursing Director, Dr. Donna Bachand, initial accreditation which representsmore than just a history lesson “The CCNE accreditation status means tremendous confidence in the– they learn first-hand that war, potential employers will know students competency and effectiveness ofracism, and natural disasters received a complete education that Concordia’s educational programimpact real people – perhaps even combined technology instruction and ability to comply with CCNEtheir neighbors.  with clinical experience. In addition, standards. It’s all part of our calling to it makes our current students eligible bring academic excellence to our for more types of federal financial students and help fulfill our mission.  »MARCH 22 – 28, 2015 APRIL 11, 2015 5 Concordia students engaged in transformative service Concordia welcomed local high school studentsleadership experiences to New Orleans, Louisiana, San for a two-hour interactive workshop designedFrancisco, California, and Seattle, Washington. These to help them prepare for financial life after graduation. Students learned hands-on how to pay hands-on service experiences are just one example bills, manage credit, and save for a rainy day –of how Concordia students are driven to serve their valuable leSsusomnsmfoerrth2e0r1ea5l world! community, both in Portland and beyond!

Campus LifeRendering of the south entrance into the future home of Faubion School and Concordia University’s College of Education.3 to PhD® Gains Momentum and Recognition For more than 63 years, Concordia PLANS, PROGRAMS, AND PLENTY 21st century workforce. OtherUniversity and Faubion School have OF PROGRESS programming efforts have alsobeen neighbors in education, literally Over the past few months, begun, including early childhooda stone’s throw away from one Concordia and Faubion/Portland development, along with healthanother. This unique opportunity Public Schools (PPS) have reached and wellness services.for partnership and collaboration a number of major milestones. Hereexpanded greatly seven years ago is a sampling of some of the key  CONTRIBUTIONS, FUNDING ANDwhen LaShawn Lee became Faubion’s events of the recent past. SUPPORT ROLLS IN: Concordiaprincipal. University’s $15.5 million dollar Today, 3 to PhD® – the program  COMPLETION OF PHASE ONE: Design capital campaign to help fundcreated between the schools – is renderings were completed the facility continues to buildrecognized as a trailblazing new by Boora Architects. A formal powerful momentum, thanksapproach for preparing future agreement, detailing the facility to early visionaries and majorteachers and young people to pursue development between Concordia donors. Portland Public Schoolstheir highest dreams. This spring, the University and PPS, was signed is contributing more than $27Portland Tribune referred to it as, by Concordia President, Dr. million in bond funding to“A new model for education,” while Chuck Schlimpert, and PPS the project, as well. SpecialPortland’s CBS affiliate, KOIN 6 School Superintendent Carole thanks to the City of Portland,News, called it, “The first of its kind” Smith. Mayor Charlie Hales, andand “a new kind of learning.” Commissioner Nick Fish for their Concordia’s commitment to  PROGRAMMING TAKES SHAPE: support of 3 to PhD.creating safer, healthier, more Led by community leadereducated communities continues and Concordia trustee Carl  NEWS ON FAUBION’S INTERIM HOME:to gain momentum, attract Talton, a STEAM (science, On June 11, the 500+ students,attention, and spark a national technology, engineering, art, families, and educators atmovement. To learn more about and math) coalition is part of the Faubion wrapped up the schoolthis groundbreaking initiative, visit planning team for developing year – then immediately startedwww.3toPhD.org. critical interior spaces that packing boxes for the move to will prepare students for the their two-year temporary site »APRIL 25, 2015 « APRIL 26 – MAY 10, 2015 Concordia conferred 2,331 degrees, Nearly 40 members of the Concordia including 212 undergraduate degrees University choral ensembles journeyed to Europe for a two-week tour of and 2,119 graduate degrees. Germany, Austria, the Czech Republic Graduates represented 16 countries, and Poland, with many performancesall 50 states, the District of Columbia, along the way. 6 caonndcthoreredUi.aS.cToernrintoericest.ion

at 2231 North Flint Avenue, Concordia CommunityCampus Life formerly Harriet Tubman Middle Celebrates the Life and Legacy School. The demolition and of Rev. Dr. Arthur Wahlers rebuild of the new joint Faubion/ Concordia facility is scheduled The Rev. Dr. Arthur Wahlers, long- living out our Lutheran identity in a to begin this October. The new time Concordia University patriarch meaningful way, committing ourselves facility is slated to reopen in the and professor emeritus, passed away to excellence in academics, and being fall of 2017. in the early hours of Monday morning, servant leaders both on campus and December 29, at the age of 91. Born in the broader community. Art was HITTING THE GROUND RUNNING on September 5, 1923 in St. Paul, the founder and first president of the The opportunity for university Minnesota to Fred and Emma Wahlers, Concordia Neighborhood Association students to apply academic excellence Art attended St. Stephanus Lutheran – the first neighborhood association as servant leaders is already at the heart School, Concordia Academy, and in Portland. Along with his neighbors, of the Concordia experience. Concordia College all in St. Paul. Art Art convinced future-mayor Connie Concordia student and future teacher, was a standout athlete in basketball, McCready and the rest of the Portland Selene Baez, recently wrapped up a tennis, and baseball. He also sang in City Council to repair outdated and semester of literacy tutoring with and directed school choirs. His love dangerous sewers in northeast her Faubion kindergarten “reading of both athletics and music would Portland. He was also a long-time buddy,” Anahi. permeate his life and help define him. member of Kiwanis. Together with “Working with Anahi has shown Wahlers came to Concordia wife Carol, Art worked tirelessly me the level of support I will need Portland in 1946, immediately after as an advocate for people with to give my students when they need graduating from Concordia Seminary disabilities, serving as local, regional, one-on-one help,” Baez notes. “I in St. Louis. At that time, Concordia and national advocates within The learned to be very patient, because was an all-male high school with just Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod for it takes children time to learn new 56 students. A jack-of-all-trades, barrier-free facilities. things.” Art taught, coached, and directed We will greatly miss Art’s presence This kind of experience typifies the the choir while serving as the dorm as teacher, colleague, mentor, and positive impact being made every day counselor. In 1952, Art started the friend – he was truly one-of-a-kind between Concordia education majors annual Christmas Chorale which and his legacy will live on in the and Faubion students. Concordia’s continues as a Concordia tradition to hearts and minds of all who were mission of preparing the next this day. In 1953, Art married Carol privileged enough to know him.  generation of leaders to transform Johnson, a nursing instructor at society is gaining momentum in Emmanuel School of Nursing. They our neighborhood, our community, were blessed with four children. Art and our state thanks to innovative earned a master’s degree from the programs like 3 to PhD.  University of Minnesota in 1954 and a doctoral degree from the UniversityTo learn more about 3 to PhD® and keep of Oregon in 1967. Art retired inup-to-date on the progress being made, 1986, serving his entire ministry atvisit www.3toPhD.org Concordia in a variety of teaching and administrative roles under three of MAY 2 – JUNE 6, 2015 the four university presidents. Concordia University Libraries’ Art & Throughout his ministry at Culture Program celebrated Native Concordia, Art impacted the lives of American artwork through a special exhibit countless students, faculty, and staff. designed to educate our community and youth Art’s ministry was so profound that itabout Native American history and culture. helped shape the culture and values of the Concordia we know today – Summer 2015 7

Feature StoryA Force tobe ReckonedwithConcordia university-portlandis gaining steam     It’s been called the energy exhibited student teaching, and mentorships. KIM NGUYENby a moving body…motion that And you can see it in the communitiesaccelerates as it moves forward…and we serve – from the classrooms inthe driving force of a course of events. northeast Portland to the most remote corner of Vietnam. That’s momentum.Momentum. Moving forward. Driving change.At Concordia University-Portland, Fueling success – through tenacity,momentum has been advancing us leadership, empathy, and innovation.onward for 110 years. It’s an energy All powered by God, who has called usforce that’s driving our mission to serve as we live out our passion.forward, creating a new generationof servant leaders ready to impact After more than a century of educatingsociety and make a real difference. You tomorrow’s leaders, how do wecan see it in a host of innovative and maintain this momentum? One way ischallenging new educational programs, through the vision and dedication ofdesigned to address the needs of our deans, collaborating to unify thetoday’s world. You can see it in the campus and create stronger communitystories of Concordia students, making relationships, ultimately creatinga momentous impact on their lives – deeper learning experiences for ourand the lives of those around them students. That’s momentum…and we’re– through internships, practicums, just getting started.8 concordia connection

Feature Story   Global Momentum:COLLEGE OF THEOLOGY, ARTS & SCIENCES Concordia’s College of Theology, Arts & Sciences isthe heart of Concordia’s liberal arts foundation, saysRev. Dr. David Kluth, college dean. “As a Christianuniversity, we help prepare students to become better‘global citizens’ and more equipped to transform society.” Beginning fall of 2016, the college will implement aset of new general education requirements, including aforeign language competency requirement and a requiredintercultural experience. “This requires students to stepoutside their comfort zone into cultures they have notexperienced before,” notes Kluth, “creating a practicallearning environment that can be applied personallyand professionally.” In addition, a proposed globalstudies program will assist students with understandingthe challenges and opportunities of living in a globallyintegrated world.Kim Nguyen brings compassion to medicalmission in Vietnam. For biology major and recent graduate Kim Nguyen,joining the Good Samaritan Medical and Dental Mission(GSMDM) as part of her biology practicum was a chanceto serve her homeland. For the past 15 years, GSMDMhas been going to Vietnam to provide free health clinicsfor the poor. Following seven months of preparation andtraining, this volunteer group of doctors, nurses, medicalpersonnel, and students headed to Cao Bang, one of thepoorest regions in Vietnam. Here, Nguyen’s team set uptheir make-shift clinic. “There were lots of kids and lots of elderly patients,”she recalls. “With the older patients, I would sit and talkwith them, gathering their information and medicalconcerns. I remember two young children who hadterrible seizures as babies. Our staff had to tell the parentsthat their children were mentally disabled and wouldnever get better. That was hard.”Summer 2015 9

   Feature Story Kim Nguyen continued... A few days into the two week clinic, Nguyen says she started to feel burnt out. “Working with the top doctors during the first week, and seeing how they had to be so detached, I realized this career path wasn’t for me. The second week, I worked with nurses and loved it. They met with the patients, learned their stories, and were able to provide comfort. The personal interaction was what I wanted. I saw how a scared patient would light up when you took the time to get to know them and I loved that. Working with a 70-year-old woman who lived alone and had no one to talk to helped me realize I wanted to be a social worker. The rewards are big when you’re able to touch someone’s life and make a difference.” Innovative Momentum: COLLEGE OF EDUCATION       According to Dr. Sheryl Reinisch, dean of Concordia’s “Whether a candidate is first College of Education, “Whether a candidate is first entering the teaching profession entering the teaching profession or working towards or working towards their their doctorate, our goal is to prepare transformative doctorate, our goal is to prepare servant-leaders who are committed to constructing transformative servant- collaborative and equitable learning communities.” leaders who are committed to In an effort to prepare the best 21st century urban constructing collaborative and educators, the college’s primary focus is on Concordia’s equitable learning communities.” 3 to PhD initiative. In addition, the college is working towards national accreditation through the Council for  Dr. Sheryl Reinisch, dean the Accreditation of Educator Preparation, as well as College of Education implementation of edTPA, a new teacher performance assessment tool. And a new master of education concentration in educational technology leadership is in the works. “Even though Concordia has been a leader in preparing educators for more than a hundred years, our programs are constantly evolving and moving forward,”10 concordia connection

Feature StoryMATT BLANCHARD a short unit on personal identity and symbolism, further enhanced with augmented reality that students could view on their cell phones. Each lesson had buttons, videos, pictures, or other information embedded to enhance the learning experience, allowing students to explore a broad range of historical topics.” So why did Blanchard decide to pursue a career in teaching at Concordia? “Ultimately, I felt that the place where I belonged, could make the most impact, and would be happiest was in secondary education. For me, it came down to education being more about the human connections and social development than necessarily about the academics. This is what I felt like life had been preparing me for all along.” Leadership Momentum: SCHOOL OF MANAGEMENTsays Reinisch. “Times change. Students change. And This fall, Dr. Michelle Cowing will join ConcordiaConcordia leads the way in making sure our teachers are University as the new dean for the School of Managementclassroom-ready to lead the next generation of students.” (SOM). She holds a doctorate in industrial engineering from Stanford University and looks forward to taking overMatt Blanchard combines heart, passion, and a program that has significantly expanded its degree options,technology to make schoolwork come alive. number of students, and MBA program, positioning the school for continued growth. The SOM has also earned The Reformation isn’t usually an exciting subject for national recognition by the Accreditation Council forhigh school students. Unless they’re in Concordia MAT Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP) and is a memberstudent Matt Blanchard’s 10th grade AP history class, of the global SAP alliance.that is. “Using iPhones and iPads borrowed from Concordia, “Concordia has a compelling mission and demonstratedstudents created a social media campaign for members record of innovative action and positive impact. I’m excitedof the Lutheran, Catholic, and English reformations, to join in the university’s ambitious commitment to ensuringpresenting arguments for or against these movements. relevant, practical, values-based management educationThey had to capture the mood of the Reformation using – in the classroom, and through internships and othertoday’s language of tweets and hash tags.” experiences,” says Cowing. “The SOM is doing great While student teaching 8th grade humanities and things in curriculum and partnerships with the businessstudy skills at Beaumont Middle School in Portland, community. My role will continue to support and advanceBlanchard again added technology to the mix. “I taught these strengths. My overall vision for SOM is that we firmly establish ourselves as strong and active contributors in advancing the Concordia mission to produce skilled and thoughtful leaders of organizations and society.” Summer 2015 11

Feature Story    Katarina Krouse turns a knack for numbersinto a successful career path. As a freshman, Katarina Krouse knew she wanted to Krouse was hired by PricewaterhouseCoopers, thework in a business field, but wasn’t sure which one – or nation’s largest accounting firm, as an auditor in publicwhat she wanted to do. Her sophomore year, she took an accounting. “I will be auditing the financial statementsaccounting class and everything clicked. “Spreadsheets, and control processes of non-profit and public companies,pulling data, graphs, invoices – it probably sounds crazy, making sure they follow all SEC regulations. It’s my jobbut I love it,” she says with a laugh. For her internship, to review their financials to make sure that what theyKrouse stepped outside the box – the shoe box, to be exact report as true really is true. A lot of what I will do deals– becoming a business intern for internet giant Zappos. with fraud, too, and making sure each company is stablecom in Las Vegas. enough to stay in business.” “Even though I was an intern, I was treated like a junior “For me,” she says, “the end goal was to work at a bigfinancial analyst. I was involved in research, collecting accounting firm. Concordia’s School of Managementdata, sales forecasting, and budgets. I routinely went made it possible for me to pursue my passions withoutto meetings with Zappos business executives and I was being locked into a specific course load. Having the abilityassigned a mentor from Zappos who was wonderful to to do what you’re most interested in and explore lots ofwork with. It was great to be able to take what you learn in options within your field of study gives you the freedomclass and apply it on the job. I learned so much!” and confidence to make the best possible career choice.”KATARINA KROUSE “Having the ability to do what you’re most interested in and explore lots of options within your field of study gives you the freedom and confidence to make the best possible career choice.”  Katarina Krouse

Feature StorySERVICE Momentum:SCHOOL OF LAW The vision that began three years ago, under the ANIL KIMBALLguidance of Concordia University School of Law DeanCathy Silak, JD, LLM has now come to fruition – as    the school has achieved provisional approval fromthe American Bar Association (ABA). This milestone 34 cases in two-and-a-half hours, meeting withmeans that Concordia’s first graduating class can sit for defense lawyers and either confirming or negotiatingthe bar exam this summer. agreements. At one point, we met with a judge in Silak’s vision for Concordia Law was designed – and chambers to discuss a point of law. I was able to see thedestined – to set the school apart. “Students here have whole process in action.”the opportunity for experiential learning beginning the “During my second semester, I went with my mentorfirst year. What’s more, our mentorship program pairs to a sentencing hearing inside the judge’s chamber. Theeach incoming student with an attorney or judge from defendant was a young person, and the judge went outthe Boise community, serving as a mentor throughout of his way to make sure she understood her sentencethe student’s time in school. Our goal is to seek and her responsibilities. I was impressed with theinnovative ways to provide students with rich and full humanity.”academic and professional development experiences.” As Kimball puts it, “Concordia’s service missionSilak continues, saying, “When students graduate ‘bleeds’ into classrooms in all sorts of positive ways.from Concordia Law, they graduate with a degree One of my professors reminded us that the cases wethat empowers them to make a difference – as legal read about in books are real people and we shouldprofessional and community leader.” And now they also think of them as such – not as guinea pigs. It was angraduate from an ABA-approved law school, ready to important real-life insight that I will carry with me.make their mark on the world. It’s amazing how invested the faculty and everyone at Concordia is in helping students succeed.”Anil Kimball learns about the law first-handthrough mentorship. When Anil Kimball graduated with a degree in criminaljustice, he knew he wanted to pursue a career in lawenforcement, but not as a police officer. Raised in Buhl,Idaho, he also wanted to stay in the area. So whenConcordia University opened a law school in Boise, hiscareer path became clear. As Kimball puts it, the real selling point was Concordia’smentorship program that assigns each student an attorneyor judge as a mentor. “I don’t know of any other law schoolswhere you can get this valuable real life experience.” Kimball’smentor is Terry Derden from the Boise City Attorney’sOffice. “He arranged for me to go with a colleague to a dayof pre-trial conferences,” says Kimball. “We covered Summer 2015 13

Feature Story “These children will never know it, but they truly left an     impact on me. Now that I’ve had this amazing and eye-opening COMPASSION Momentum: internship experience, I know, without a doubt, that I want COLLEGE OF HEALTH & HUMAN SERVICES to become an occupational therapist. This is what I was For College of Health & Human Services (CHHS) Dean meant to do.”  Lexi Antisdel Dr. Sarah Sweitzer, momentum comes from building programs that reach and serve vulnerable and at-risk populations. The college’s recent inter-professional poverty simulation gave nursing and social work students a chance to learn first-hand what it’s like to live at the poverty level – developing the empathy and compassion they’ll need when entering the work force. Sweitzer, now in her second year as CHHS dean, points to growth in the college’s programs. “We’re excited to launch a new healthcare administration degree specific to long-term care that nicely complements our existing healthcare administration degree.” Healthy, stable families that support their children’s learning has become a key component of Concordia’s 3 to PhD initiative. To that end, CHHS students – from nursing, exercise & sport science, and social work – will now play an integral part on-site at Faubion. “We are committed to preparing our students to be leaders who will work to improve the health and well-being of the communities in which they live through cultural competence, respectful and caring attitudes, and strong personal and professional ethics,” said Sweitzer. Lexi Antisdel puts a caring heart to good use for children in need. From the time exercise & sport science (ESS) graduate Lexi Antisdel was able to walk, she loved all things athletic. “I did every sport possible,” she says, “until I was forced to retire due to an injury. This background is what inspired me to want to work in the exercise and rehabilitation world. I want to make a positive difference in peoples’ lives.” For her internship experience, Antisdel worked at the Providence Neurodevelopmental Center for Children in Portland. “I had the opportunity to learn from a huge range of medical professionals – all the way from14 concordia connection

Feature StoryLEXI ANTISDEL Now that I’ve had this amazing and eye-opening internship experience, I know, without a doubt, that I want to become an occupational therapist. This is what I was meant to do.” When asked what she would tell someone thinking about coming to Concordia, and more specifically, considering the ESS program, Antisdel answered without hesitation. “I would tell them they are going to love it! If they have passion for sports, athletics, and healthcare, this is the degree for them. The class sizes are very small and all the professors are willing to help, as they want you to do well.”    occupational therapy, physical therapy, and speech For each student featured here, there arelanguage pathology to pediatric psychology, audiology, hundreds more who have gone on to make thenutrition, and developmental pediatrics. One of my world a better place. The registered nurse whofavorite jobs was making visuals for children to take cares for hospice patients. The business majorhome to help them transition between home and who runs a division at NIKE. The pastor who leadsschool. Just being able to observe different techniques a growing congregation. The second-grade teacherfor children with different needs was invaluable.” who inspires inner-city kids to be excited to go to “The visits I encountered on a day-to-day basis school every day. The attorney who started a non-allowed me to watch children grow and see how they profit organization. Behind each student are deans,improved each week. It was truly a pleasure to see professors, mentors, and an entire community,this positive change. I saw children from all levels of doing their part to bring Concordia’s core valuesthe autism spectrum, as well as premature babies and to fruition. It’s an exciting team journey, poweredinfants born addicted to meth. These children will by our faith, that’s been bringing success andnever know it, but they truly left an impact on me. harnessing change for more than 100 years. That’s momentum.  Summer 2015 15

Current Issuesexperience meets empathy: Intercollegiate Simulation Puts Students in the Shoes of Those in Poverty Anthony Perez was growing increa- Welcome to a week in the life of George Fox Assistant Professor of singly desperate. His mother was someone living in poverty. While the Nursing, Ann Evans.gone, his father was in jail, and at age 21, character of Anthony Perez isn’t real, During a two-hour class period,he found himself the head of a household the story is all too true – something students were randomly assigned to– responsible for his twin 13-year-old millions of Americans face every day, small family units who sat togethersisters and three-year-old brother. including people right here in Oregon. in the center of the room. Name tagsHaving dropped out of community This eye-opening exercise was designed identified each participant by name,college in order to care for his family, to help future nurses and social workers gender, and age, while informationPerez quickly ran into trouble. His become more empathetic and sheets provided basic background.sisters dropped their baby brother off at understanding caregivers – servant Folding tables and wall signs aroundsubsidized childcare on their way to leaders equipped to deal with the issues the perimeter of the room simulatedschool, but forgot to pick him up in and concerns of this vulnerable businesses, services, and charitablethe afternoon, causing the boy to be population, empowered to affect organizations. Students could buytaken by child protective services. Their policy change. groceries at the Food-O-Rama, droponly valuables were stolen when the off a child at Interfaith Services andrun-down house they were renting THE COMFORT ZONE IS GONE Child Care, try to borrow moneywas robbed. Perez spent hour after Known as the Community Action from the bank (or the high-interesthour waiting in line at social service Poverty Simulation, this hands-on quick cash location), apply for socialagencies, often being told to go home project was a first-ever intercollegiate services, or sell belongings at Big Dave’sand come back later. At month’s end, activity between Concordia University- Pawn Shop. An employment agencywhen it came time to pay $800 worth Portland and George Fox University. helped those in need of a job. And theof bills, their income of less than $500 Spanning two different sessions on the Community Health Center wasmeant making tough choices – and Concordia campus, the simulation was available if someone became ill.the utilities were turned off in order to coordinated by previous Concordia Transportation vouchers, often inkeep a roof over their heads…at least Nursing Program Director, Dr. Becky short supply, were required to movefor a few more weeks. Boehne, and Assistant Professor of from place to place. School was Nursing, Marie McGhee, along with mandatory for children and teens. And a small police presence handled evictions, truancies, and any crime- related issues that arose. After a brief explanation and a chance for the “family” units to talk, the simulation began. Each “week” was 15 minutes long. During the week, families needed to go to work, pay their bills, get the kids to school, buy groceries, and perform other everyday tasks. And they had to do so with very little money to spend and very big hurdles to overcome – much like people living in poverty do every day. Since families were living on the edge, it didn’t take much to throw them into a downward spiral.16 concordia connection

Current IssuesA broken window. A car that won’t him getting a meal or having a place student spoke to how “stressful” thestart. An uninsured baby who to sleep. So I reached into my wallet experience was, feeling “overwhelmed”requires medical attention. What and gleefully gave him $5. I knew that and “helpless.” Dodge explained thatbegan as minor issues quickly had the little bit of money I had could in some cases, people would go to themajor ramifications. have been his spark of hope. Maybe convenience store to buy high-priced “Within the nursing profession, the cars behind me donated to him, food simply because they had no waythere is so much more learning that too. I can only hope that it made a to get across town to the less-expensivemust occur outside the tangible skills difference.” grocery store.that are more easily taught. Empathy, Concordia College of Health &effective communication, critical LIFE-LESSONS FOR FUTURE Human Services Dean, Dr. Sarahthinking…these are things that can be Sweitzer, playing the role of banker,developed through simulated experie- CAREGIVERS commented on how people quicklynces like the poverty simulation,” said Following their “month” in poverty, became hopeless. “I watched a motherevent coordinator McGhee. the students were divided into groups and her children get evicted. The and had a chance to talk about their mother stood there for the longestA SPARK OF HOPE experiences. Julie Dodge, assistant time, looking around and looking Geoffrey Young, a junior in professor of social work at Concordia, confused. It was clear she didn’t knowConcordia’s nursing program, was the led one group. “Nobody hopes to what to do and was lost.”student living the life of Anthony Perez. mess up their kids, to be hungry, or Students from both schools felt the“I felt the sting of someone who is to struggle in life,” she said. “But it poverty simulation was extremelydoing everything within their power to happens. For many, there’s an element worthwhile and one that will helpprovide for their family, while many of shame because your intentions are them in the future as they becomeoutside factors push you further and good.” nurses and social workers advocatingfurther behind. We tried to remain One student noted that she felt as for the healthcare needs of thispositive, but it was tough. Getting our though she “failed as a mom because vulnerable population. EBT card was a huge win. It meant we I couldn’t provide for my kids.” Another  were fed for a month. This gave us aglimmer of hope. On a professionallevel, I can see how hope can have ahuge impact.” “Finishing my clinical rotation oneday, I saw a homeless man on thefreeway exit looking for handouts.My initial reaction was visceral and Ithought to myself ‘not another one ofthese guys.’ But then I thought backto my experience during the povertysimulation and how the tiniest sumof money could make or break thatman. It could be the difference betweenA HEALTHY OASIS IN A FOOD DESERTOne of the key obstacles those in poverty experience is lack of access to healthy, affordable groceries. Faced with limited funds and oftenneeding public transportation to get to the closest market, underserved residents often turn to convenience stores and fast food restaurants asprimary food sources. This is true of the majority of families served by Concordia’s 3 to PhD® initiative. That’s where “Molly the Trolley” comesin. One afternoon each week, project partner Whole Foods Market brings Molly – their mobile grocery store – to the Faubion School parkinglot. This on-site store provides access to fresh, healthy, affordable food to anyone in the neighborhood. It’s another way Concordia University,through our 3 to PhD® program and our Christian mission, helps interrupt poverty through innovative solutions. Summer 2015 17

Alumni NotesAluNmonteisWhat’s New in Your Life? Fundamental Theology, offers anStay in touch and keep us posted on all of your news... introduction to foundational and basicnew baby, new job, new spouse, new house, great matters in Christian theology fromvacation, milestone anniversaries, or recent Lutheran and Protestant perspectives.retirement? Send us an email on what’s happening The book also explores ways in whichin your life. Feel free to include photos, especially Christian theology engages knowledgehigh-resolution (300 dpi) wedding and baby pictures: from other academic disciplines. Becker dedicated this book to three long-time EMAIL: [email protected] Concordia faculty members: Rev. Dr. Hans Spalteholz, Dr. Chuck Kunert, andOr send mail to Alumni Notes, 2811 NE Holman Street, Portland, OR 97211 Dr. Dick Hill. “These individuals have enriched my life and faith in so many1981 missionary, she provided counseling, ways, both when I was a student at Gary Krumdieck is now vocational training, and discipleship to Concordia and when I taught as a a pastor at St. John’s Mongolian women who had been victims member of its faculty (1993-2004). It was Lutheran Church in of human trafficking. While working with only natural for me to dedicate the book Sutherlin, Oregon. He Streams of the Desert, Liz developed to them.” Becker occasionally posts on has been a Lutheran opportunities where these women could his blog, “Transverse Markings,” found at school teacher and/ work – making jewelry, sewing, providing www.matthewlbecker.blogspot.com. or principal for 30 daycare, and cleaning apartments. Liz is years and Director of now volunteering with Washington Engage, 1988 Christian Education at a non-government organization working several of the churches with community coalitions to prevent Donald Glass has served aswhere he served. Gary received his BA in human trafficking in the United States. instructor in the academicelementary education from Concordia bridge program at the ZayedUniversity-Portland and went on to receive University in United Araba master’s degree in reading from Central Emirates since 2008. HeWashington University in Ellensburg,Washington. Last year, he received his helps studentsmaster’s degree in theology from Concordia supplement theirSeminary in St. Louis. Gary is married with English skills tothree grown children and six grandchildren. enter the baccalaureate program. He was coordinatorLiz (Richmond) 1984Sedore returned for the King Sejong Institute forto Olympia, Rev. Dr. Matthew Becker Korean Language and Culture,Washington in recently completed his delivering KSI curriculum2014 after serving eleventh year of teaching to Zayed University studentsas a missionary theology at Valparaiso in Abu Dhabi, Dubai andin Ulaanbaatar, University, Valparaiso, outreach classes for the community atMongolia since Indiana. His new book, large. Prior to joining Zayed University,2008. As a Donald taught English as a second language in Keimyung College and at Catholic University of Daegu, both in South Korea. Donald completed his MA in applied linguistics from the University of Southern Queensland.18 concordia connection

Alumni Notes Teaching Parents how to Speak“Teen”FOR MOST ADULTS, HANGING she said. “But when I Parents are quick to correct, to answer, around middle school kids is not needed to student teach in to solve, to criticize – but slow to listentheir favorite thing to do. It’s a tough a Lutheran school, the only opening to what’s behind the words.”age, with kids vacillating from was in sixth grade. Within days, I “I teach parents to listen as if theirenthusiastic and open to sullen and knew this was the age group I wanted middle schoolers were adult friends.withdrawn – within seconds and for to teach.” Just as I want my friend to give meno apparent reason. sympathy and understanding, middle Sue Acuña, a middle school teacher “YOU CAN TRUST US, MRS. ACUÑA; schoolers want to hear that theirwho received both her bachelor’s (’82) WE’RE EIGHTH GRADERS!” parents understand their frustrations.and master’s in education (’14) degrees As Acuña explains it, middle They know they have to do the workfrom Concordia University-Portland, schoolers are standing right on the and get along with the teacher – theyknows all about parenting kids at this divide between being children and just need to know someone gets howbewildering age. She brings her insight becoming teenagers, moving between they’re feeling.”and experience teaching middle both worlds all day long – one minute Years of having parents asking herschoolers via a new book, Middle begging for more recess and the next for advice and saying, “You should writeSchool: The Inside Story, co-written asking for more independence. a book!” inspired Acuña to start a blog.with parenting expert and author “They’re asking big questions about An author friend approached her aboutCynthia Tobias. values and faith and how the world incorporating her blog into a book on works, and they soak up the answers understanding middle schoolers, andFROM CONCORDIA’S CLASSROOMS and ask more questions. They’re old two years later, her book was written.TO A CLASSROOM OF HER OWN enough to get the jokes, For the past 17 years, Acuña has yet young enough to fall off “As a product of public schools,been teaching seventh and eighth their chairs laughing.” I knew nothing about Lutherangraders at Concordia Lutheran School One of Acuña’s favorite education. During my four years asin Tacoma, Washington, where she experiences to share with an undergrad at Concordia, I realizedalso directs the school choir, leads her students is the yearly that providing a Lutheran educationworship in the chapel, and helps Lutheran Elementary was what I felt called to do. In fact,out with various sports, including School Tournament (LEST) the idea of being ‘called’ to teachbasketball and track. held each February on the Concordia instead of just ‘hired’ was a big draw When she was a freshman at University-Portland campus. She for me. It was at Concordia UniversityConcordia in Portland, the school was has attended LEST as an undergrad, that I learned my first job is to teachjust transitioning to a four-year college. student teacher, parent, and for the the students; my second job is to“It was a fun and exciting time of past 17 years with her students from teach the subjects.” growth, and I wanted to be a part of CSL Tacoma.that.” Years later, when Acuña decidedto earn her Master of Education, she “YOU SHOULD WRITE A BOOK”was thrilled to discover she could do so “Parents often ask me for adviceonline through Concordia. “I was about relating to teens. I always tellplanning to be a first grade teacher,” them to just listen. Listen with under- standing and empathy, and you will be surprised at what you will learn.To learn more about Acuña’s book, Middle School: The Inside Story, visit sueacuna.com. To read her blog, visit mrsacuna.com. Summer 2015 19

Alumni Notes 2000 2006 PLEASE JOIN US! Christopher L. Luis Garcia and Yael Garcia were Magana has engaged on May 2, 2013, while visitingCONCORDIA HIGH SCHOOL joined IMS Capital Luis’ hometown in Michoacan, Mexico. Management and is responsible for They met in 2008 while he was attendingClasses of 1962-1965 providing equity research and portfolio University of management for the IMS Dividend Oregon SchoolThe Concordia High School classes of 1962 Growth Strategy and for separately of Law and shethrough 1965 are planning a reunion on managed accounts. He is a member was a junior atJuly 22-23, 2015 at Concordia University of the Oregon State Bar. In addition, the Universityin Portland – the site of the old high school Christopher has served as a part-time of Oregon. Theycampus. Response has been great and alums professor at Concordia University- got married onare coming from all over the country for Portland and currently teaches part-time September 27,what will be the first reunion in over 50 at Washington State University- 2014 at Blackyears for most people. Class contacts are Vancouver and Willamette University’s Butte RanchTom Moeller (1962), Steve Jaeger (1963), Graduate School of Business. He is active near Bend,Doug Lutz (1964), and Bob Schwermann in several charitable organizations and Oregon. Luis(1965). Most out-of-towners will be staying speaks regularly to students, community graduated fromat the Clarion Hotel by the Portland groups and associations on investment, ConcordiaAirport. For more details, contact the economic, and personal finance topics. University inalumni office at [email protected]. He is on the board of the Foundation 2006 and played for the men’s soccer for Vancouver Public Schools and was team from 2002-2006. Luis practicesCONCORDIA HIGH SCHOOL named one of the Portland Business immigration law as an attorney in Lake Journal’s “Forty Under 40” in 2011. Oswego and Yael is pursuing her licenseClass of 1966 to become a real estate broker. 2001Larry Krumdieck and Steve Sanow have 2008plans underway for the Concordia High Chris Hermansen and his wife, Gina, alongSchool Class of 1966 50th year Reunion. with their three kids – Kellyn (12), Kendra Angela (Robinson) Guillory got marriedDates are set for Friday-Sunday: September (10), and Haydn (7) – recently moved to in 2011 and now has two wonderful sons9-11, 2016 at Alton Collins Retreat Center Suwanee, Georgia, a suburb of Atlanta, to – Odin (4) and Zachary (2.5). She justin Eagle Creek, Oregon. Additional plans serve a call at Epiphany Lutheran Church. completed the first half of the Concordiainclude a Concordia tour Sunday afternoonfollowed by dinner at McMenamin’s MBA program.Kennedy School. 2002CONCORDIA JUNIOR COLLEGE Justin Krueger, MBA ’09 andClass of 1966 Celeste (Frazier) Krueger, ’03, MBA ’08 welcomedThe Concordia Junior College class of 1966 Harper Belle Krueger on Juneis having a 50th reunion on June 3-4, 2016, 17, 2014. She is joined by herhosted by Kathy (Wulfers) Bohlken and older sister, Violet Ann (bothSharon (Droegemueller) Miles. Mark your future Cavaliers, of course!).calendar now and make plans to attend!Plans call for gathering Friday night forBrats and Beer at the Bohlken home inVancouver, Washington, then having lunchon the Concordia campus on Saturday witha tour of what’s new. Saturday evening, wewill celebrate Italian style in downtownPortland with Sharon DroegemuellerMiles hosting. For more information,email Kathy at [email protected] orSharon at [email protected] Social? Keep up to date with everything happening at Concordia by following us on Facebook and Twitter! www.facebook.com/cu.portland www.twitter.com/cu_portland20 concordia connection

Alumni Notes2013 Kristin Flintoff MEd, welcomed her first 2014 child on October 9, 2014 at 11:17 am.Andrew Figueroa married Jessica Elsner Annabelle Grace weighed 9 pounds 7 Mariahon July 19, 2014. He immediately began ounces and was 18 ½ inches long. After (Raudsepp)working as a legal support staff member a month-long stay in the intensive care Keane has hadfor the Canyon County Public Defender’s nursery at Duke, Annabelle was home in an amazing startOffice in Caldwell, Idaho. They are time for the Thanksgiving holiday. to her 2015. Oncurrently living in Nampa, Idaho. January 17, she married the loveIn Memoriam of her life, Sean Keane, a former member of the Concordia University track & field and cross country teams. They have since settled down in SW Portland together. Mariah was hired on as a registered nurse in the Versant Residency program this year as well, beginning her dream career as an intensive care unit (ICU) nurse in the Neuro Trauma Intensive Care Unit at Legacy Emanuel Medical Center. James Elmer Barnard (92) was partnership continued after retirement as in 1964. Retta taught elementary school in born on January 23, 1922 and they managed their property investments. California for several years before moving passed away November 14, 2014 Jim always stepped up in his life, to Minneapolis, Minnesota, to enter the from cancer. His wife, Ramona, reaching the rank of Eagle Scout in high Northwest Airlines flight attendant training predeceased him. Jim and Ramona school, serving in the military during WWII, program. In 1974, she married Steve Braun were longtime supporters of and afterward in the reserves retiring after and moved to New York where she Concordia University in a number 22 years with the rank of major. He stepped continued with Northwest Airlines. of different areas, including up in his community by serving the Daughter Elizabeth was born in 1976.establishing the Mr. and Mrs. James E. churches he attended as congregational The Brauns moved to Portland in 1978,Barnard endowment to provide scholarship president, property committee chair, and shortly before the birth of their sondollars to students studying healthcare. The more, actively participating in the Beaverton Christopher. The following year, Retta andBarnards were also instrumental in Kiwanis, serving on the Architectural family moved into the Thomas Princesupporting construction of the George R. Committee of the Lutheran Northwest house, where Retta began her lifelong loveWhite Library & Learning Center. Jim’s District Office for 35 years, the Tualatin of historic home renovation and design.family includes his daughters, Claudia Park and Recreation Board for 14 years, She continued to fly internationally andBarnard and Karen Martz (Glenn), along the Board of Construction Appeals for 22 share her talents in entertaining,with three grandchildren, three great- years, and the City of Beaverton Board of volunteerism, and artistic endeavor whilegrandchildren, and his business partner Design Review for a year. Jim and Ramona always putting family first. In 2002, theof 65 years, Elwyn Kinney. believed in not only sharing their time Brauns moved to Aurora, Oregon, where In 1949, Jim started his teaching but their resources too, especially for the Retta began the renovation of their mid-position at Beaverton High School which Oregon State University Valley Library 19th century home, the Frederick Keil house.included a woodworking class for adults and at Concordia University. Retta is survived by her beloved husbandin the evening. It was here that he became Steve, Dean Emeritus of the Concordiafriends with Elwyn Kinney. They began Retta Faith (Kriefall) Braun, JC ’60, (72) School of Management, her cherishedworking together on construction projects was born on October 8, 1942 to Rev. Harry children, and her adored granddaughterin the summers, and after three years of and Mrs. Ida Kriefall andteaching, they both left the teaching passed away on March 22, Blue, as well as her sisters Euniceprofession to work full time as carpenters. 2015. Retta grew up in and Rachel, brothers Ted and Dan,On June 9, 1953, they started Barnard and Havillah, Washington. their spouses, and many nieces andKinney Building Contractors, continuing She attended Concordia nephews. Retta was a loving wife,until they retired in 1986. The firm built College in Portland, mother, grandmother, and friend.many custom-built homes, churches, and then earned her teaching She will be deeply missed by thecommercial buildings, including the credentials at Concordia many people in the ConcordiaJapanese Garden Pavilion and much of University in Seward, Nebraska community and countless othersSalishan Lodge on the Oregon coast. Their who loved her. Summer 2015 21

Alumni Notes Kenneth “Kenny” William Hoefs (80), During her career at the school, she was a former member of the Concordia known for her enthusiastic participation in JULY 11 & 12 University Board of The Taming of the Shrew Regents, passed away spirit week and dressing up for Halloween. April 21, 2015. Kenneth was An active member of Mt. Olive Lutheran JULY 22 & 23 born on March 11, 1935, in Church in Forest Grove, Rhoda served Concordia High School Hankinson, North Dakota to as church organist and was involved in 50th Reunion Classes 1962 – 1965 Rudy and Marge Hoefs. He various ministries in the congregation attended North Dakota State as well as in the Lutheran Women’s JULY 24 University and graduated Missionary League at the local, zone and Concordia Golf Alumni Tournament, with honors. While doing graduate work in district levels. She was an avid supporter McMenamins Edgefield fluid mechanics at the University of Minnesota, of local sports, enjoyed decorating cakes, he was hired by Boeing. Kenny moved to visiting the Oregon coast, and especially JULY 25 Bellevue and started work at the aerospace cherished time with her grandchildren. Movies on the Green “Labyrinth” giant in March of 1959. It was at this time that Many a member of the Gaston community he also became a member of Pilgrim Lutheran and beyond had a wedding cake made by AUGUST 1 Church and remained an active member his Rhoda and asked her to play the organ at Peter Sears Poet Symposium entire life. He was passionate about his work the ceremony. She is survived by her and dedicated to Boeing and his co-workers. husband, Don Spidal, one daughter, three AUGUST 1 – SEPTEMBER 30 The highlight of his career was his involvement sons, three sisters, three brothers (including Educating for Peace Art Exhibit in the 767 program while he was the Head of Joel Schuldheisz, program chair, exercise Aerodynamics. Kenny continued to be promoted & sport science), and numerous grand- AUGUST 15 within Boeing and retired as Director, Airplane children, nieces, and nephews. Movies on the Green “Paddington” Performance and Airworthiness in August of 1995. In retirement, Kenny was able to enjoy the Linda Carol Trier, (67) was born AUGUST 20 things he loved most, including his family, friends, on June 29, 1947 and was called Alumni Volleyball Game church, sporting events, exercise, and good books. to her eternal rest on November When Kenny was around, there was never a 11, 2014. She is survived by her AUGUST 22 shortage of conversation or laughter. But most husband Pastor Orlie Trier, her Alumni Soccer Games importantly, Kenny had an intimate relationship children, Scott, Wendy, Michelle, with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. He wrote and Marcie, as well as three AUGUST 29 memoirs reflecting his faith which are a testimony sisters and six grandchildren. 2nd Annual Campus Blues Fest, to his convictions including, “Everything that I Orlie served as vicar in Laurel/Park A Tribute to Janice Scroggins have was given to me by God;” and “If we let him, City and Columbus, Montana. Following God will mold us to the person He wants us to be.” the seminary, they served congregations in SEPTEMBER 11 But at this time, one of the most poignant of his Deer River and Squaw Lake, Minnesota; Berlin Wall Art Instillation Dedication writings is, “Heaven is our final home. Death is Winnebago, Minnesota; Chugiak, Alaska; just a necessary stop on the way.” Kenny is survived Federal Way, Washington; St. Michael’s SEPTEMBER 11 – 13 by his older brother, Lloyd Hoefs. He will be and Concordia University in Portland, Anniversary Celebration Weekend of missed, but always remembered and deeply loved Oregon; and at Christ Community Church Concordia University, Portland Lutheran by numerous friends who were also family. in Vancouver, Washington. School, Trinity Lutheran School Linda graduated from a three year Rhonda Ruth (Schuldheisz) Spidal, JC ’58 (76), nursing program as an RN. She served OCTOBER 31 was born on October 31, 1938 in Toledo, Oregon, as a charge nurse in an OB/GYN unit, Halloween in the Halls. Residence halls a psychiatric unit, and other various open to public for trick-or-treating, the daughter of Rev. Ben and Esther nursing positions from hospitals to games, and fun (Streufert) Schuldheisz, both deceased. clinics. She most recently served as a Rhonda passed away on April 25, 2015. nurse for Shepherd’s Door, the women’s DECEMBER 1 She was raised and received her education program for Portland Rescue Mission. 6th Annual Christmas Tree Lighting in Odessa, Washington, as well as Hillsboro Linda also faithfully served the Northwest and Sherwood, Oregon. A member of the District LCMS in so many ways it is DECEMBER 4 – 6 Sherwood High School class of 1956, impossible to name them all. Most 65th Annual Christmas Chorale, Rhoda attended Concordia College in recently, she served as a Reconciler and on St. Michael’s Lutheran Church, Portland and graduated in 1958. She was united the Lutheran Disaster Response team. Portland, OR in marriage to Don Spidal of Gaston in December Volunteering with MOST Ministries of 1958 at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Sherwood. provided her with opportunities to serve FEBRUARY 2 They celebrated their 56th wedding anniversary people around the world, including Concordia’s Fifth Annual Governor this past December. Rhoda was a wife and mother Kazakhstan, Latvia, Sri Lanka, China, Victor Atiyeh Leadership in Education in addition to teaching for several years before Tanzania, and India (three times). Her Awards, Portland Art Museum, becoming a secretary in the Gaston School District, other passion was music, both vocal and Portland, OR where she retired after 30 years of service. the piano.  MAY 8 – 18, 2017 500 Years of Reformation (1517-2017): Tour of Lutherland (Rhine Valley, Wittenberg, Berlin, Munich, and more) with Dr. Michael Thomas, Professor of Patristics and Classics. Email [email protected] for more information. For more information on these, and other events happening at Concordia, please visit cu-portland.edu/events22 concordia connection

Alumni NotesGetting Down to Business – On and Off the CourtJEFF CHRISTIANSON’S PASSION the many demands of your sport. The once they graduate from Concordia. That for basketball led him to Concordia close-knit environment of Concordia is my true passion with coaching. Theas an undergraduate (class of 2007), really helps to foster a strong game of basketball is the vehicle that Ibrought him back for his MBA (class learning environment where you feel utilize to develop the most well-roundedof 2013), and continues to sustain valued and that the faculty and staff young men that I can.”him. As program coordinator for really care about your success. I left  Concordia’s School of Management with a feeling of accomplishment and CROSS TRAINING: FROM THEand also the associate head coach that I was ready for the ‘real world.’” LOCKER ROOM TO THE BOARDROOMof the men’s basketball team, “As the School of Management’sChristianson’s love for the game FINDING HIS FOOTING program coordinator, I am constantlyinspires him to seek out opportunities After graduating in 2007 with a working on multiple projects at thefor leadership and service. major in business administration same time. I think that my experience as Before joining the Concordia staff, and a minor in marketing,Christianson worked for NIKE Golf, Christianson worked for NIKE a student-athlete really prepared me forwhile also coaching basketball at Golf for almost four years not just my role at Concordia, but for myhis alma mater, Sunset High School while simultaneously coaching work at Nike as well. It’s all about beingin Beaverton, Oregon. At Sunset, basketball at Sunset High efficient with your time and managingChristianson helped guide the team School. “I wanted to explore competing priorities.”to playoff appearances in all five coaching at the college level as “This is true in coaching as well.seasons of his tenure, finishing as a possible career,” he noted. The biggest parallels between myhigh as third in the state in 2008 and “I knew that a master’s degree two roles as program coordinator andfourth in 2010. Many of his players would help me in pursuing that associate head coach are attention tocontinued playing at the collegiate avenue.” detail, managing competing prioritiesand professional levels. Christianson “The only program I looked effectively, and communication skills.”also served as the associate head at was here at Concordia because Icoach for the Vancouver Volcanoes of loved my time here as an undergrad. WINING ON AND OFF THE COURTthe International Basketball League Also, Coach Barbarick – who I played “As assistant head coach, myfor two seasons. for as an undergrad – gave me the responsibilities include working with opportunity to get onto the coaching players on skill development andA FORMULA FOR SUCCESS staff while I pursued my MBA.” leading recruitment throughout the “My initial inquiry at Concordia Northwest. When I meet with recruits, Iwas looking into an opportunity to be A CALLING TO COACH tell them that they will not find a collegea student-athlete and play college “I feel that being an athlete at that is more conducive to success inbasketball. Once I visited the campus, Concordia definitely helps me with their sport and in the classroom. Thewhat sold me beyond athletics was my coaching. The instilled service focused personal attention they willthe small classes and personalized characteristic that is incorporated receive is phenomenal.” attention. I knew it was a place that into Concordia helped me to realizehad a formula for me to be very the impact I could have as a coach.successful.” The service career of coaching – to “Attending college at Concordia help mentor and develop youth –was a great experience. It is a very that’s how I see it.”intimate setting on campus and I “What I love most about coachingenjoyed that. You weren’t only close is the ability to work with the players.with your teammates, but also fellow I love being in a position where I canstudents, faculty, and staff.” help young men develop and grow. “Being a student-athlete is not It’s more about developing the wholeeasy – balancing all the demands of person and getting them in a positionbeing a college student, along with to be successful, well-rounded adults Summer 2015 23

Navy & WhiteGood-bye NAIA, Hello NCAAConcordia Teams Leave Their Legacy in Final NAIA SeasonIn their final season in the Cascade Oklahoma City University to win the Season highlights included winning Collegiate Conference (CCC) and opening round tournament and three of five against Lewis-Clark Stateas members of the National Association advance to the ten-team NAIA World (Idaho), a team that went on to winof Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA), the Series in Sioux City, Iowa. Bagging the NAIA Baseball World Series title.Cavaliers went out with a bang. Five three straight wins, including a  different teams captured a regular- dramatic 10-9 come-from-behind win MEN’S & WOMEN’Sseason or conference championship, against top-seeded LSU Alexandria, TRACK & FIELDearning Concordia its seventh straight the Cavs pulled to within a game of With six conference championsCCC All-Sports Trophy. After sending the national championship match, and nearly 30 All-CCC performances,11 different teams to national champ- settling for a third-place both track & field teams flirted withionships, Concordia landed 9th in finish despite beingthe NAIA Directors’ Cup standings, ranked No. 17 in the team titles beforea measure of the most competitive country to start the event. finding success ondepartments across the country. the national stage. BASEBALL The Navy & WhiteSOFTBALL Reaching the NAIA West Tourn- Following a magical run to the ament finale for the third straight took homeWorld Series, the softball team has the season, Concordia baseball continued runner-uphonor of being the last Concordia its ascent into the upper echelon of honors atteam to compete in an NAIA contest. programs on the West Coast. With the CCCAfter a disappointing display at the just one all-conference pick, the CavsCCC Championships, the Cavaliers tallied a 32-23 record while forging apacked their bags for Oklahoma, where true “win as a team” mentality.the team twice upset No. 1-ranked24 concordia connection

Navy & WhiteChampionships held in Ashland, MEN’S & WOMEN’S GOLF WOMEN’S BASKETBALLOregon, then placed eighth (women) The Concordia men’s and women’s Under first-year head coach Seanand tenth (men) at the NAIA Outdoor golf teams showed no signs of slowing Kelly, the Concordia women’s teamNational Championships. Matthew down in their NAIA swan song. Both showed amazing strides, improving toClowes highlighted action on the men’s teams extended their championship a 12-16 overall record that featuredside with four total national champ- streak at the conference level by taking early-season wins over then 13th-ionships. Winning the indoor mile and home their eighth straight crowns. ranked Southern Oregon and 25th-3,000-meter run while anchoring the The CU women went on to place 16th ranked Oregon Tech in back-to-backdistance medley relay team to gold, at the NAIA National Championships days. The Cavs lost some momentumClowes earned the NAIA’s Most held in Pooler, Georgia, while the men down the stretch of the season but wereValuable Award for the indoor meet. closed out the year by placing 27th at able to secure a spot in the CCC Tourn-The senior returned to win the 1,500 nationals in Daytona Beach, Florida. ament for the first time in three years,at the outdoor champ-ionships and Nine different Cavaliers earned All- where they gave 17th-ranked Easternonce again anchored a relay, this time CCC honors, including the CCC Oregon a scare before bowing out ofthe 4x800, to bronze, for his fifth All- Women’s Player of the Year, Kelsey the postseason bracket.American effort of the season. On the Whiles.women’s side, McKenzie Warren paced Beginning in the fall of 2015, MEN’S BASKETBALL the Cavs with three Setting a school record for wins in Concordia University athletic All-American a season (25), the CU men’s basketball efforts, including team finished in a three-way tie for first teams will be joining a national place to claim a share of the league championship crown. Jumping up to a No. 10 the Great Northwest in the discus ranking in the NAIA Coaches’ Poll, throw. the Cavs advanced to Athletic Conference the NAIA National Baseball: Ryan McMonigle Championships for (GNAC), as part of Golf: Kelsey Whiles the second straight Basketball: Lexi Campbell season, this time the school’s overall and Anthony Holton advancing to the Track & Field: Austin Peila “Sweet 16” for the move to NCAA first time since 2000. The Cavs’ campaign Division II.  came to an end against Cornerstone (Michigan), the eventual national champions.  Summer 2015 25

Navy & WhiteDriving His Own Course to SuccessGolf Coach Ronn Grove Retires After Eight Outstanding Seasons Since Ronn Grove took on the role playing golf tournaments by then and “We’ve had someof head men’s and women’s golf getting better. That’s when I decided to very outstandingcoach in the fall of 2007, Concordia take the money the Reds gave me and student-athletesUniversity-Portland has never lost a go to Inglewood Country Club and come through inCascade Collegiate Conference (CCC) just work my butt off.” He practiced my eight years herechampionship. The two teams have six hours a day, six days a week, for six and being able tocombined to secure 16 CCC titles – straight months. Impressed by his develop, teach,eight straight for both the men’s and dedication, Inglewood made Grove and mentor thesewomen’s teams. For Grove, who retired their assistant golf professional, golfers has beenat the end of the spring 2015 season, launching Grove’s pro career. a total joy to me.”this is only one of many extraordinarythings he’s done throughout his life KEEPING FAMOUS COMPANY » Ronn Groveand career. During the Seattle Open, Grove Men’s & Women’s Golf Coach had a chance to play with one of the game’s greats, Arnold Palmer. “Back in those days, the tour pros would just come in the pro shop and talk with the head pro and get a game,” Grove said. “That was the way they did it then, it was pretty informal. Arnold Palmer walked into the pro shop and he knew my boss. They exchanged pleasantries and Arnie says, ‘Is there anybody who can go out and play with me?’ And my boss says, ‘Why don’t you take young Ronn here.’ And I’m going ‘What?! What?!’”FROM THE DIAMOND TO THE GREEN A LEADER IN THE GAME helped create the Oregon Senior Open As a high school baseball player in Grove continued to work as a golf in 1996 – an event that has becomeSeattle, Grove drew the attention of the pro for several years, but retired in 1970 the largest Sectional PGA Senior eventCincinnati Reds and signed with them and began working as a sales trainer in the nation. He won the Oregon PGAas a second baseman in 1958. He began for an insurance company. He returned Senior Masters and the Oregon PGAhis baseball career with the minor to golf in 1975 as an amateur, winning Senior Championships in 2000 andleague Class A Wenatchee Chiefs, but the Medalist honor in qualifying for the 2002. Grove was elected to the Oregonan injury midway through the season U.S. Amateur Public Links champ- PGA Board of Directors in 1994,derailed his dream. Looking for ionship in 1982. That win led to more becoming president of the Oregonsomething competitive to replace opportunities for Grove within the Chapter in 2002. Before coming tobaseball, Grove found it in golf. “I was sport, including evaluating courses for Concordia, the eight-time CCC Coach Golf Digest for their annual top 100 of the Year founded the Ronn Grove list, which Grove did until resigning Golf School in Vancouver, Washington from that position last year. in 1996. In addition, Grove was selected as the Oregon PGA Senior Player of the Year on seven occasions, including a five-year run from 1994 to 1998. He26 concordia connection

Navy & White Cavaliers Name New Athletics DirectorBRINGING YOUTH UP TO PAR Following a national search, Brian The school Grove founded Jamros has been selected to joineventually became the Southwest Concordia University-Portland as Jamros begins his duties in mid-JulyWashington Junior Golf Association. the new director of athletics. Jamros and will be joined in Portland by hisThe Association sought to develop comes to Concordia having served wife Ashley and two young daughters.young golfers, preparing them to play as an associate athletic director He earned his BA in kinesiology,at the college level and help them earn for external relations at Concordia along with a master of arts degreescholarships. “We put 15 student- University-St. Paul. in organizational management andathletes in college with college According to Concordia Vice a master of business administrationscholarships,” Grove says. Current President for Student Affairs & from Concordia-St. Paul.professional golfer Lindsay Aho ’11 Athletics, Dr. Glenn Smith, “Brian After years of national success in thewas one of those student-athletes. emerged from a talented pool of NAIA, Concordia will transition to a In his first season as a collegiate applicants as a personable leader and complete NCAA DII schedule for allcoach in 2007-08, Grove immediately a tireless worker who will take that 15 sports beginning in 2015-16 as theled Concordia’s women’s team to an charge and continue to build on the 11th member of the Great Northwest11th-place finish at the NAIA National tradition of sustained excellence for Athletic Conference (GNAC). Championships. His women’s teams the Cavaliers, guiding us through thewent on to place inside the top 20 at remainder of the NCAA Division IInationals six straight seasons, including process.”a fifth-place result at the NAIA National Jamros held several positionsChampionships in 2010. at Concordia-St. Paul since 2005, Untouchable at the conference level, beginning as the director ofthe Concordia University’s men’s team marketing and promotions beforeearned its first trip to nationals last being promoted to the assistantyear, with the team posting an eighth- athletic director for development andplace result after entering the finale finally the associate athletic directorranked No. 19 in the country. Under for external relations. Along withGrove’s guidance, 10 Concordia managing nine sports, Jamros wasplayers have earned CCC Golfer of also responsible for overseeing allthe Year honors while 12 went on to athletic development, fundraising,earn NAIA All-American accolades. marketing and promotions. “We’ve had some very outstanding “I am extremely honored to bestudent-athletes come through in my named the next director of athleticseight years here and being able to at Concordia University-Portland,”develop, teach, and mentor these Jamros said. “CU-Portland is agolfers has been a total joy to me,” dynamic and innovative institutionGrove says. “What the past and and my family and I look forwardcurrent players have accomplished to joining the Cavalier family. Iat the conference and national level would also like to thank Smith andis something they can cherish for the entire search committee for thisthe rest of their lives and positions opportunity as we move athletics intothe program for many more years of the NCAA and Division II.”success to come.” Check out everything that’s happening with Concordia Athletics by following us on Facebook and Twitter! www.facebook.com/concordiacavaliers www.twitter.com/gocugo Summer 2015 27

Navy & White Giving Student-Athletes a Voice Re-established Student-Athlete Advisory Committee Elects President As a sprinter on the Concordia “As SAAC, we get to vote on NCAA University track & field team, junior legislation. Votes from every NCAA Carlos Ortiz runs very fast. His athletic Division II school are put together to training focuses on one simple form the student-athlete’s voice. This objective: to run faster. Ortiz brings voice is very effective at the national that same clarity and focus to his role level and rarely voted against.” as president of Concordia’s Student- To assure that all student-athletes Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC). are heard, two representatives from Because SAAC is only in its second each of Concordia’s teams are year, Ortiz understands that his first appointed to the committee. priority is getting the word out about SAAC also organizes community what SAAC is and does.“My main goal engagement opportunities, including for SAAC is to help make it more a dodge ball fundraising tournament influential on campus,” says Ortiz. for the Make-A-Wish Foundation. “This committee can bring all of Con- cordia’s teams closer together, not only A COMMUNITY-MINDED LEADER helping student-athletes but helping Ortiz was recruited by Concordia the rest of the student body as well.” for its track & field team, but he Prior to becoming SAAC president, chose to attend the university for its Ortiz was a member of the Junior academics, service mission, and sense ROTC while in high school in Salem, of community. Oregon. “The JROTC gave me the “The reason I chose Concordia is leadership experience needed to that is was a perfect fit for me in terms establish this committee and taught of education,” says Ortiz. “The exercise me how to be an effective leader and & sport science program was of great deal with the stresses that come with interest to me, but what made it even it,” says Ortiz. better was that Concordia also offered a youth ministry minor – two things JOINING A NATIONAL CONVERSATION that I want to do in the future, coaching Now that Concordia’s athletics and being a youth pastor.” programs are in the multi-year process “Being a student-athlete at of becoming part of NCAA Division II, Concordia has been a great and each sport must follow NCAA reg- unforgettable experience,” he continues. ulations and standards. Administrators, “I’ve made numerous friends, even with coaches, and students all have a right seniors who helped teach me a lot my to vote on NCAA legislation. SAAC freshmen year and still mentor me.” represents Concordia’s student-athletes “It also really solidified how much in these NCAA discussions. “The main I enjoy this sport – not only the thrill purpose of SAAC is to give student- of getting better but also motivating athletes a voice in their school, my teammates and seeing them conference, and division,” says Ortiz. achieve their goals.” 28 concordia connection

Nailed to the Door Nailed to the Door provides Concordia staff, faculty, alumni, and students a forum for editorial comment.A Great Beginning A few weeks ago, along with the rest of the faculty, I filed into the gymnasiumfor another graduation. This day is a celebration of accomplishment, a time oftransition and possibilities. The weeks leading up to it are filled with emotion.Students soon to graduate rejoice over admission to graduate schools and job offers.For others, this transition is a time of uncertainty. Some come to offer apologiesand make amends for poor behavior in classes. Others just want to say goodbye. As professors, we remember the day a few years ago when these same studentsstumbled into our entry level classes, finding their way around the campus forthe first time. Now they stride confidently across the stage to receive a diploma.Their families cheer and the photographer immortalizes the moment of their joy.It is really good to sit in the rows of faculty and see this play out again withstudents who have grown dear. This fall semester will bring a new crop oftimid freshmen who will struggle to learn and grow into that diploma wewould hand them in a few years. This issue of the Concordia Connection has told a variety of stories aboutstudents, professors, and mentors. It has highlighted big things which Concordiais doing with Faubion School. It has spoken of wellness and health. Throughoutall of these threads lies a beautiful idea: every one of those students, every oneof those children at Faubion, every mentor and mentee, every suffering souland celebrating graduate is a precious gift of God. Sitting in the rows of faculty on graduation day I feel like I am witnessingsome great beginning. We are launching students into this world who have beenshaped by learning, service, and the ethos which has existed at the heart ofConcordia for over a century. Many of those graduates will live lives of beautifuland simple service. We will not see their names in the media but the children,patients, and others whom they serve will know their warm smiles and gentle care.A few will streak like rockets across a darkened sky, lighting up the world so weall may see more clearly. But all of them, the humble servant and the famousalumna or alumnus, will be precious to Him who called this school into being.» Rev. Dr. Phillip L. Brandt Division of Theology Chair, Professor of Theology Summer 2015 29

2811 NE Holman Street Portland, Oregon 97211-6099 NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION U.S. POSTAGE PAID PORTLAND, OR PERMIT #654 Calling all Alumni! Join us for an...Anniversary Celebration! SEPTEMBER 11 – 13, 2015 Trinity Lutheran Church & School celebrates its 125th Anniversary andPortland Lutheran School & Concordia University celebrate their 110th Anniversary Mark Your Calendars! FRIDAY 9/11, OPENING DAY: Take a tour of each campus and enjoy chapel and musical performances, special guests, a walk-through history display, and installation of the Blue Jay Hall of Fame at Portland Lutheran School. Also, cheer on Concordia’s Men’s Soccer team as they take on Linfield College. SATURDAY 9/12, LUTHER LAP FUN RUN & WALK: Trinity’s marching band leads the way from Trinity to the victory lap at Concordia’s Hilken Community Stadium. Circle back to Trinity for a BBQ and fellowship. SUNDAY 9/13, EDUCATION SUNDAY SERVICE & ALUMNI CHOIR: Trinity will host special guest speaker, LCMS Northwest District President Rev. Paul Linneman, plus student speakers and an alumni choir performance under the direction of retired music teacher Dick Wrye, followed by a potluck-style fellowship picnic. Want to Get Involved? JOIN THE CHOIR AND COME SING WITH US! Contact Dick Wrye at [email protected]. HELP REBUILD THE PAST BY LOANING US YOUR MEMENTOS! Contact Becky Sprecher, Concordia’s Director of Alumni & Parent Engagement at 503-493-6454, or [email protected].