Concordia Connection: Summer 2009

C oncCoonrdneication P O R T L A N D, O R E G O N • S U M M E R 2 0 0 9 JOURNEYS Featuring the Saga of the Volga Germans

A Teachable Moment A Journey of the Heart Alternative Spring Break—that’s the official title for the adventure of service that 13 Concordia University students, faculty, and staff embarked upon March 23rd to 28th. In the months leading up to our trip, we regularly gathered to get to know one another, to set goals for our trip, and to talk about our hopes and fears. What was evident in our discussions was the sense that our lives would be changed through this experience. When we arrived in New Orleans, we found ourselves working in the heart of a neighborhood that had been devastated by Katrina. Scott Ferguson, the organizer of our trip and Concordia’s community engagement and service learning coordinator, challenged each of us to move out of the comfort zone of our group and get to know the local people. We did get to know the people who lived next door to the house we were working on. After a few days, we noticed some of their siding was coming down, so we fixed it for them. About two hours later, the next door neighbors thanked us by preparing an incredible feast of crawfish, shrimp, potatoes, and corn. There was enough to feed more than 20 people! Southern hospitality can’t really be described—but we experienced it on more than one occasion. On our last day, we stopped at our favorite frozen custard shop for a treat. As we started to order, a local man came in, so we let him order first. He thanked us for our service to New Orleans, and, after he left, we were told he had paid for our entire order! As we debriefed our experience, one of the students shared that the most significant moment for him was talking to a local man who had once lived down the street from the house we were building. This man’s wife and one of his children died in Katrina, and he had recently begun to restore his house so he and his daughter could return to New Orleans. This student commented that, while he knew this experience would change him, until he looked into the eyes of that man telling his story, he had no idea how profound that change would be. As we returned, many people praised us for “giving up” our Spring Break. The reality is, it was the best Spring Break any of us have ever experienced. We were each given the amazing gift of transformed hearts. This experience will forever be a part of our lives. - Julie Rowland, Professor of Mathematics College of Theology, Arts, & Sciences

P O R T L A N D, O R E G O N • S U M M E R 2 0 0 92 Campus Life. Concordia celebrates the opening of the George R. White Library & Learning Center, helps local businesses facing economic uncertainty, welcomes a best-selling author and Nobel Peace Prize nominee, and is recognized for its dedication to community service. 14 A Long, Fascinating Journey. Learn how the unique history of the Volga Germans has made its mark on the CU campus and neighborhood. And get inspired to trace your own family’s history.22 Current Issues. A new program gives MBA students a first- hand look at China’s growing economy and Asia’s influence in the Northwest. S ummer 2 0 0 9 24 Alumni Notes. More news and highlights of Concordia Connection is published twice life after Concordia. per year by Concordia University in Portland, Oregon. 32 Navy & White. Watch the rise of women’s sports Please address all correspondence to: and catch up on the latest news from Concordia Athletics. Concordia Connection 41 Nailed to the Door. ATTN: Jeanie-Marie Price Cover photo from the Concordia University Center for Volga German Studies, Stacy Hahn Collection Concordia University 2811 NE Holman Street Portland, Oregon 97211 or email: alumni@cu-portland.edu Editor: Jeanie-Marie Price Contributing Editor: Kassie Boehringer Art Director: Christine Dodge Graphic designer: Katrina Dinges EDITORIAL BOARD:Andrea Bruno, Matt English, Keylah Frazier, Ron Miolla, Kelly O'Gara, Andrea Scofield, Dr. Michael A. Thomas, Dr. Sonja Vegdahl Summer 2009 1

Campus LifeConcordia Honorees for the award were chosen In addition, 83 were named as HonorNamed to based on a series of selection factors Roll With Distinction members andPresidential including scope and innovation 546 schools as Honor Roll members.Honor Roll for of service projects, percentage of In total, 635 schools were recognized.Community student participation in service A full list is available at www.Service activities, incentives for service, and nationalservice.gov/honorroll. the extent to which the school offers The Corporation for National and academic service-learning courses. Pave the WayCommunity Service honored Over the past five years, Concordia to Concordia’sConcordia University with a place has made a significant effort to be Futureon the President’s Higher Education a greater partner in the north andCommunity Service Honor Roll for northeast Portland community. On Leave your mark on Concordiaexemplary service efforts and service average, Concordia University faculty, University for generations to come byto America’s communities. staff, and students contribute more purchasing a personalized brick along “Concordia University prepares than 223,000 hours of practicum, the Concordia Legacy Pathway onleaders who change the world – it’s our internship, volunteer, and other the south side of the new George R.mission and our promise to students service learning hours per year White Library & Learning Center.and the community,” said Concordia serving over 10,000 community For a $125 fully tax-deductiblePresident Charles Schlimpert. “Direct members, 5,000 of which are youth. donation, you can commemorateservice to our community and service- The Concordia Teacher Corps, for your life or the lives of family andlearning for our students help us deliver example, reaches out to students in friends in a meaningful way. Proceedson that promise. We’re honored kindergarten through high school to from the brick campaign will helpby this recognition; it’s a powerful offer tutoring and additional support. fund the Library & Learning Centeraffirmation of the deep commitment Created in 2006, the program enlists construction.we have to making north and northeast Concordia's most promising future Through these bricks, alumni canPortland an even better place to live.” leaders who meet with students memorialize their years at Concordia Launched in 2006, the Community on a weekly basis throughout the or honor a fellow classmate with aService Honor Roll is the highest federal school year. In addition to academic lasting tribute, parents can honorrecognition a school can achieve for support, tutors also encourage their graduates, and neighborsits commitment to service-learning positive behavior in and out of school. can celebrate their communityand civic engagement. “In this time of economic distress, and connection to the Concordia we need volunteers more than ever. neighborhood. College students represent an enormous For more information, visit pool of idealism and energy to help www.cu-portland.edu/bricks. tackle some of our toughest challenges,” said Stephen Goldsmith, vice chair of the Board of Directors of the Corporation for National and Community Service, which oversees the Honor Roll. “We salute Concordia University for making community service a campus priority.” Overall, the Corporation honored six schools with Presidential Awards. December 5 « »February 12 The North/Northeast Business Association awarded Concordia Over 1,000 students and their parents University its Excellence in Business representing 19 schools from around the West Award for Community Service. gathered for the Lutheran Elementary School Tournament (LEST).2 concordia connection

Campus LifeGreg Mortenson, Humanitarian andCo-author of Three Cups of Tea,to Visit Concordia October 21 Greg Mortenson, co-author of the From that rash promise grew aNew York Times bestseller Three Cups remarkable humanitarian campaign,of Tea and Nobel Peace Prize nominee, in which Mortenson has dedicatedwill visit Concordia University for a his life to promote education,lecture and book signing on especially for girls, in remote regionsWednesday, October 21, at 7 p.m. in of Pakistan and Afghanistan.the Concordia gym. Advanced tickets Mortenson co-founded thego on sale Saturday, August 15, 2009. Central Asia Institute (www.ikat.To purchase tickets, visit our website at org) and Pennies For Peace (www. government officials, and tribal chiefs from hiswww.cu-portland.edu/3cups and penniesforpeace.org), and has tireless efforts to champion education. Mortenson is one of few foreignersenter the code word \"cavalier.\" This established 78 schools and other who has worked extensively in the region now considered the front linesevent is presented by The VTM Group. services in rural and volatile regions in the war on terror. NBC newscaster Tom Brokaw calls Mortenson, An avid climber, Mortenson of Pakistan and Afghanistan, “one ordinary person with the right combination of character andattempted to scale Pakistan’s K2, the which provide education to more determination, who is really changing the world.”world’s second highest mountain, in than 28,000 children, including On March 23, 2009, Pakistan’s president conferred Pakistan’s highest1993. The trip was in memory of his 18,000 girls, where few education civil award, Sitara-e-Pakistan (Star of Pakistan) for Mortenson’s courageyounger sister, Christa, opportunities existed before. and humanitarian efforts to promote education and literacy in rural areaswho passed away the year His work has not been without for the last 15 years. Published in 2007, Three Cups of difficulty. In 1996, he Tea details Mortenson’s experiences and has remained on the New YorkThree Cups of Tea has survived an eight day armed Times' bestseller list for more than kidnapping in the Northwest 120 weeks.remained on the New York Frontier Province tribal areas of Pakistan, and escaped aTimes' bestseller list for 2003 firefight with feuding Afghan warlords. He hasmore than 120 weeks. overcome two fatwehs from enraged Islamic mullahs, endured CIA investigations, and also received hatebefore. Mortenson mail and death threats from fellowfailed to reach the Americans after 9/11 for helping tosummit, and while recovering in educate Muslim children. MortensonKorphe, a remote mountain village, he is a living hero to rural communitiesmet a group of children writing with of Afghanistan and Pakistan, wheresticks in the dirt. Mortenson made a he has gained the trust of Islamicpromise to help them build a school. leaders, military commanders,»February 24 Summer 2009 3Students at three Portland area schools are enjoying new titles in their libraries thanks toa donation of more than 650 books valued at $8,500 by the Jody Thurston NorthwestCenter for Children’s Literature at Concordia. The schools, Sitton ElementarySchool in north Portland, Madison High School in northeast Portland, and PilgrimLutheran School in Beaverton, were selected based on need.

GregCaMmoAprntueevsneLnsiinofegnw, ictho-author of Celebrate the of the FWJ Sylwester Library, an opportunity for neighbors to get their Presented by The VTM Group Transformation own library cards,“Shakespeare-In- The-Park” featuring the PortlandGreg Mortenson, humanitarian, Nobel PeacePrize nominee and bestselling author, will The George R. White Library & Actors Ensemble in the newvisit Concordia University for a lecture and Learning Center, Concordia’s new Concordia amphitheater at 3 p.m.,book signing. 74,000 square foot facility, will open and free blood pressure checks in the its doors this August. Celebrate with new Robert & Virginia Hilken FamilyWednesday, October 21, at 7 p.m. us at the Dedication Ceremony on Nursing Center. Wednesday, August 26, at 10:30 a.m. For more information on theTickets are $15 for adults, $10 for students. A on the campus green, and the Library & Learning Center opening,limited number of tickets will be available for Community Open House on Saturday, visit www.cu-portland.edu/Connection readers before the general public August 29, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. celebration.starting Saturday, August 15, 2009. Use thecode word \"cavalier\" when purchasing tickets. NPR Host The new building will be a hub forVisit www.cu-portland.edu/3cups for details. both the campus and the neighborhood, and will combine traditional library spaces, state-of-the-art technology, Renée classrooms, a coffee shop, and Montagne important centers of learning. The increased academic space offers Receives a place for Concordia’s outstanding Shakespeare faculty to engage students in spirited Authorship inquiry grounded in the Lutheran, Research liberal arts tradition. With no public library in the neighborhoods immediately surrounding the university, the facility also offers important Centre Awardresources to the Concordia community. The Library & Learning Center is the first Leadership in Energy and Concordia University’s Environmental Design (LEED) Shakespeare Authorship Research Certified building on campus and Centre presented Renee Montagne, solidifies Concordia’s role as a responsible host of National Public Radio’s steward of the community’s resources. Morning Edition, with the Vero Nihil The Dedication Ceremony will Verius Award at the 13th annual include a blessing of the building, bell Shakespeare Authorship Studies tower, and new green space; and the Conference. Open House features fun events for the The Vero Nihil Verius Award whole family, including story times for recognizes artistic excellence and children in the Jody Thurston Northwest dedication to the quest to resolve the Center for Children’s Literature, tours Shakespeare authorship question. In »February 28 Charles Kunert, PhD, professor of Biology and dean of the College of Theology, Arts, & Sciences was named Outstanding Teacher for Higher Education by the Oregon Academy of Science.4 concordia connection

Campus Life World Traveler alone, but still having the chance Makes CU Her Home Base to question people and meet folks Concordia University senior involved in the trade,” Sahlstrom Brooke Sahlstrom has big plans for her future. “Honestly, I would like said. “All my research on trafficking to visit every individual culture and further explore the specifics of each will be used in my senior thesis and one,” she said. If her past experiences are any other articles in the future. In Asia, indication, Sahlstrom is well on her way. She recently returned I will work with White Lotus, an from a study aboard program in Prague where she attended Charles organization that provides girls who University and took classes in sociology, literature, and economics. have been trafficked with useful job While in Europe, she traveled to Vienna, Munich, London, Krakow, skills and rehabilitation and Frankfort. Prior to her trip, Sahlstrom volunteered for an programs. I have other orphanage in Mexico and has seen most of North America. Now plans too, but Sahlstrom is planning her third trip to Cambodia to teach English plenty of time Everything will and computer skills to indigenous to continue children. After graduation, Sahlstrom’s exploring, so be different travel plans include a backpacking they may change trip through South America, and aPictured (left to right): Gary Withers - Concordia University return trip to Asia. over the years.” than youexecutive vice president, external affairs; Renée Montagne - Sahlstrom is majoring in social SahlstromNational Public Radio host, Morning Edition; Daniel L. Wright - sciences with an emphasis inConcordia University director of Shakespeare Authorship sociology and a minor in art. Her encourages planned andResearch Centre, professor of English. desire to better understand and other students expose the human trafficking trade is a July of 2008, Montagne hosted several driving force behind many of her trips. interested in you have to segments on Morning Edition that “The main reason I picked Prague overseas travel highlighted the worldwide debate was to do further research on human over who actually wrote the works trafficking without going too far east to follow their keep a sense conventionally attributed to William dreams, but Shakespeare. Morning Edition is the most widely heard broadcast news reminds them to of humor program in the United States. be flexible. The Shakespeare Authorship Conference was held at Concordia “Everything to survive last April, and included a performance will be different of Shake-Speare’s Treason, created by Hank Whittemore and Ted Story. than you sometimes. Professors, teachers, students, planned and you playwrights, and lovers of Shakespeare attended the conference to share have to keep a research and gain more insight into the Shakespeare authorship question. sense of humor to survive sometimes,” said Sahlstrom. “Do not get frustrated with how different things are handled since there is really nothing you can do about it. Things will only become more difficult if you keep getting frustrated over little differences instead of adapting to the culture around you, and learning neat new approaches to handling problems in life.” « March 5 March 8 John Heinitz, principal of Zion Lutheran School in Piedmont, Student Chelsey Deloney, an Oregon Calif., was awarded Concordia University’s prestigious Community Foundation/Self Lux Christi Award for his outstanding service and Enhancement Inc. Scholar, won accomplishments as a Lutheran educator. the Miss Black Oregon USA pageant. She will compete for Summer 2009 5 Miss Black USA in July.

Campus LifeUniversity founding dean. Since then, Silak has CU to OfferNames New made significant progress on the New DegreeLaw School assessment of properties, programDean, Works development, fundraising, personnel, Concordia’s College of Health &Toward 2011 and accreditation. Human Services is launching a newOpening “My first task was to determine degree program in Exercise and Sport when we could open the law school,” Science (ESS). The program focuses Plans for Concordia University said Silak. “Given our commitment on the preparation and mastery ofLaw School in Boise are moving to creating a high quality law school skills used in the fitness industry,forward with an anticipated opening with excellent faculty and our and includes courses in kinesiology,in the fall of 2011. great respect for the requirements prevention and care of athletic Last December, Concordia named of the American Bar Association, injuries, sports psychology, and otherCathy Silak, former Idaho Supreme we have selected the fall of 2011 as health and fitness-related topics.Court Justice and the first female our intended opening date. I am Students who graduate with ajudge appointed to the Idaho Court encouraged by the support of the degree in ESS can move on to careersof Appeals, as the law school’s Boise community and we continue to in personal training, physical make progress in all areas.” education, and Currently, Idaho’s only law school coaching. Students is on the campus of the University will also be equipped of Idaho in Moscow, yet nearly half to pursue advanced of the state’s lawyers and the Idaho degrees in exercise Supreme Court are 300 miles away physiology, kinesiology, in Boise. Treasure Valley is one of and athletic training. the four largest metropolitan service “Concordia’s ESS areas without an accredited law school. program is holistic and The new law school will fill that will prepare students need, and will be a natural extension of to apply the best in Concordia’s longstanding relationship sport and science with the Boise community and the to maximize their university’s mission of preparing potential and refine leaders for the transformation their abilities to serve of society. The curriculum will society,” said Dr. Joel Schuldheisz, emphasize community service and director of the ESS program. ethical decision making, leading ESS graduates will also be prepared students to personal success and for the required certification exams meaningful civic engagement. offered by the American College of For more information about Sports Medicine (ASCM)] and the Concordia University Law School National Strength and Conditional visit www.cu-portland.edu/lawschool. Association (NCSA). « »March 20 to 29 Concordia University’s choral ensembles, under the direction of Kurt Berentsen, traveled to Puget Sound for their annual spring tour with concerts in Olympia, Seattle, Snohomish, Everett, Renton, and Sequim, Wash., and Victoria, British Columbia.6 concordia connection

Make your mark on Concordia.Buy a brick for you or a loved one on the Concordia Legacy Pathway.It’s a gift that will last for generations and commemorate your life, or thelife of a family member or friend, in a meaningful and memorable way.A Moment in History ?DID YOU KNOW >Concordia University’s George R. White Library The George R. White& Learning Center is nearing completion. The Library & Learningpathway that will welcome future generationsof students, neighbors, and visitors to the heart Center is 74,000 sq. ft.,of campus will feature customized messages with double the numberon bricks, offering a unique opportunity tomake a lasting impression on the university and of volumes, state-of-neighborhood community. the-art classrooms, faculty offices, aAlumni... community meeting space, six importantMemorialize the formative years you spent onConcordia’s campus or honor a fellow alumnus centers of learning, andwith a lasting tribute. Make your legacy an a coffee house.enduring part of the landscape. Each brick you purchaseParents... will honor Concordia’sCommemorate a pivotal chapter in your history and help pave thegraduate’s life with a memorable gift that will way for the future.permanently honor his or her accomplishments.Neighbors...Celebrate this community and what it meansfor you to live and thrive here with a brickthat shares your connection to the Concordianeighborhood with future generations. to ORDER BRICK(S) visit www.CU-portland. edu/BRICKS or call 1-800-752-4736 –PORTLAND, OREGON–

Campus LifeSupport The LCMS Northwest District CALL directly with a designated giftContinues voted unanimously at its 2006 to the District’s “Fan into Flame”for CALL convention to create CALL and campaign. to support CALL as its mission This fall, CALL is hosting three The Art & Carol Wahlers Center emphasis for 2006 to 2009. This inaugural events including the Fallfor Applied Lutheran Leadership support will now continue past the Mission Festival, September 26, which(CALL) is a unique partnership District’s June 2009 convention will focus on the topic “We’re Notbetween Concordia University and through the District’s “Fan into in Kansas Anymore: Tools andthe LCMS Northwest District. The Flame” campaign. Techniques for Finding Your Way incenter serves as a resource for “Fan into Flame” is an LCMS-wide a Post-Church Culture;” the CALLcongregations and church organizations campaign to gather financial support Symposium, October 30 to 31, whichas we wrestle with critical issues, for the Ablaze! Movement, which seeks will address “Tough Questions/including what it means to be Lutheran to share the Gospel with 100 million Thoughtful Answers in the Nonein a 21st century post-church world; people around the world by 2017, Zone;” and the Peacemaker Conflicthow to live out our Lutheran identity, the 500th anniversary of the Coaching and Meditation Seminar,theology, and ministry with relevance Reformation. CALL is a central November 12 to 14.and meaning in a culture that often component of the LCMS Northwest For more information on CALLsees the church as irrelevant; and how District’s “Fan into Flame” efforts. or the “Fan into Flame” campaign,our Lutheran voice contributes to The District has identified 11 projects contact Jim Pressnell, Concordia’sthe overall Christian witness in the to be supported by “Fan into Flame” director of church relations, atNorthwest. gifts – many of them involving CALL. jpressnell@cu-portland.edu or In addition, congregations and 503-493-6574. individuals will be able to supportConcordia’s dedication to communityservice extends out to the Portlandmetro area and beyond. In February,Concordia President Chuck Schlimpertand members of the ConcordiaUniversity Foundation staff preparedand served lunch at De La Salle NorthCatholic High School. Located in northPortland, De La Salle, a key ConcordiaUniversity community partner, servesmotivated, college-bound studentswho would otherwise not have accessto a quality, faith-based education.Pictured (left to right): Andrea Bruno, ConcordiaUniversity vice president for advancement;Charles Schlimpert, Concordia Universitypresident; and Matt Powell, De La Salle NorthCatholic High School president. « »March 23 to March 27 A group of Concordia University students, faculty, and staff partnered with Habitat for Humanity and traveled to New Orleans during Spring Break to build houses for victims of Hurricane Katrina.8 concordia connection

Campus Life Concordia Bestows Honorary Degrees not do. His desire to break past boundaries led him to serve as an Richard Alexander and the family American Association for People with of the late Samuel Irving received Disabilities Information Technology honorary degrees from Concordia Fellow for the Office of Disability University during the spring at the Department of Health and commencement ceremony on May 2. Human Services. Before his death, Both Irving and Alexander dedicated Irving was appointed to President themselves to improving the lives of Obama’s Committee on Disability others, specifically children Power and Pride, where he would and people with disabilities. work on behalf of people with Samuel “Sam” Irving III disabilities. To understand Sam’s life only Irving also used poetry to express himself andby viewing him through the help others understand his illness. He authoredlenses of his physical disability four books of poetry, led writing workshopswould be a grievous error. for students in Portland Public Schools, hosted » Terry McGlasson, Concordia’s Director of local poetry slams, and Counseling & Learning Services. was a regular guest on KBOO radio. was a student at Concordia As a student at Sam achieved many things in his life, but in the season that I met and knew who lived his life to the fullest Concordia, Irving educated the Sam, his singular driving goal was to earn a college degree.” despite adversity. He was a passionate campus community on how Richard “Dick” Alexander of West Linn, Ore. is an extraordinary advocate, an accomplished poet, to accommodate people with example of a business leader and entrepreneur who shares his talents a caring friend, and a loved and disabilities. for the betterment of the community. With a passion to help Oregon’s respected member of the Concordia “To understand Sam’s life only neediest children, Alexander’s efforts in the last decade to expand early community. Irving passed away in by viewing him through the lenses childhood education and services are unparalleled. February after a 15-year battle with of his physical disability would be a Following service in the U.S. Marine Corps., Alexander attended multiple sclerosis. Until the end, he grievous error,” said Terry McGlasson, believed he would beat his crippling Concordia’s Director of Counseling disease and walk on his own across & Learning Services. “Sam was huge. the stage to receive his diploma. Sam was strong. Sam was sensitive. Irving needed just 35 more credits to Sam was funny. Sam was passionate graduate. and insightful. And Sam could be Irving challenged conventional hard-nosed and determined when the thought on what he could and could cause was important enough to him.»April 9 Holmer, former Special Envoy for China and the StrategicThe 15th annual CEO Roundtable, presented by The VTM Group, Economic Dialogue at the U.S. Treasury Department;brought together more than 300 business leaders for a livelydiscussion on this year’s theme, “Rebuilding the Competitive Chuck Stetson, director and co-founder of Private EquityEdge.” The 2009 panel was moderated by FORTUNE MagazineSenior Editor Brian O’Keefe, and featured Ambassador Alan Investment Funds; and Karl Mundorff, president and CEO of Bio-Reaction Industries, LSLuCm. amndeCrU2a0lu0m9nus. 9

one stepcan take you ina whole new directionBy planning for your future now, you can make your dreams come true.Create a legacy of giving that inspires others. The Concordia University Foundation has created a website to help you dream—about your future and ours.We are here to serve you and your family by providing helpful resources asyou develop your estate plans and consider the legacy that you want to leavebehind. If you’re not sure where to begin or need to update an old plan, startby visiting our new website. www.cu-portland.edu/estatesFor questions, visit the website, or contact Erinn DeGroot by calling1-800-752-4736 or emailing luminary@cu-portland.edu.

Campus LifeMemphis State University (now Concordia’s Christi Crux VocalUniversity of Memphis) and then Ensemble Tours Alaskabegan his career in the buildingproducts industry. In 1965, he Members of the Christi Crux included the eight-voice communitystarted Viking Industries, Inc., Vocal Ensemble shared their talents choir from neighboring Glennallen,which has grown to be one of the with audiences throughout Alaska and tribal dancers and drummers.leading manufacturers of windows last May. The spring tour titled, Prior to the concert, a communityand doors in the west. Alexander “Standing Firm – Rooted in Christ,” potluck was served potlatch style.also founded Viking International, a included stops in Fairbanks, Chugiak, The menu included several snow haresuccessful exporter of specialty foods. Copper Center, Anchorage, Homer, hunted that morning, fresh-caughtHe currently serves as Chairman of and Palmer. salmon, and moose meat.the Board of Capital Pacific Bank Concordia students also had an “This was a powerful experience,and conducts business as Alexander opportunity to give back with a both for our choir members and theInvestment Co. community service project. With help Copper Center community,” said Jim Alexander’s desire to improve the from Todd Roeske, pastor at Mount Pressnell, director of church relationsquality of life for Oregonians led Drum Lutheran Church in Copper for Concordia University. “Concordiahim to focus resources where they Center, and his wife, Kim, the choir students had the opportunity to seecould make the greatest difference: worked with the Copper River Boys rural Alaska and to interact withearly childhood. Through leadership Club and Girls Club students in their a native Alaskan community in apositions and personal contributions, after school program at the Native meaningful way. This experienceAlexander has made a lasting impact Alaskan Community Center. Choir opened their eyes to a differenton the programs available to Oregon members played games and taught culture and a different way of life,children, including the Ready for the children two songs to sing with giving them much to think about. AsSchool campaign, which leveraged the choir during the evening concert, for the impact on the community,power of business and civic leaders including a Mother’s Day song that several community members said,to secure an additional $39 million in Kurt Berentsen, Concordia’s director ‘We’ve never heard anything like thisstate funding for Oregon Head Start of choral music, composed especially Concordia Choir. We’re so far outPre-Kindergarten. for the event. of the way that nobody like this ever Alexander has been a strong The evening concert in Copper comes here. Thank you for comingsupporter of Concordia University’s Center not only featured music to Copper Center and giving us thisTeacher Corps (CTC) since its by the Christi Crux choir and the special gift!’”inception. Through CTC, Concordia community children, but alsostudents tutor children of allgrade levels in the neighborhoodssurrounding the Concordia campus,as well as in Klamath Falls. Currently,more than 60 Concordia studentstutor in the CTC program, servingmore than 17 organizations and514 students from around northand northeast Portland, as well asKlamath Falls.April 5 April 18 April 23 to 26The College of Education received its charter for a collegiate chapter Psi Chi, the National Honor Society in Eleven Concordia students presentedof Kappa Delta Pi, an international honor society and inducted 39 Psychology, inducted the Concordia their research at the Westerngraduate and undergraduate education majors, the faculty of the University-Portland Psi Chi Chapter Psychological Association’s annualCollege of Education, and President Schlimpert, Johnnie Driessner, and 22 student and faculty members. conference in Portland, Ore.executive vice president, and Mark Wahlers, provost. Summer 2009 11

Campus LifeRev. Dr. Warren SchumacherReceives Christi Crux Award Concordia University presented As president, Schumacher helped each one is unique and blessed by thethe 2009 Christi Crux Award to Rev. oversee the writing of God Opens Holy Spirit. And according toDr. Warren Schumacher for his Doors, the 100th Anniversary Schumacher, life’s greatest joy issignificant leadership to the Church book of the Northwest District to discern what the Holy Spirit is doing,and to Concordia University. After 15 (1899-1999). He has worked to then as individuals and congregationsyears of dedicated service, Schumacher cement lasting partnerships within to choose to participate in what theis retiring as president of the the district, around the Lutheran Holy Spirit is doing.Northwest District of the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod, and withChurch-Missouri Synod (LCMS). other Christians that promote CU Partnership Schumacher entered the ministry education and social services. And Will Help Localmore than four decades ago and he is always looking for ways to Businessesfaithfully served three congregations help congregations share the love ofin Michigan, Washington, and Christ in word and action, helping Oregon. In 1994, he was elected them to see possibilities “outside the Concordia business students will havepresident of the Northwest District box.” This is most evidenced by the the unique opportunity to help peoplewhere he provides visionary creation of the Northwest District’s in north and northeast Portlandleadership and support for more “Tracking the Spirit in the Joy of improve existing small businesses andthan 250 congregations and Ministry,” which sees every day as a start new business ventures through amissions in Alaska, Idaho, Oregon, gift of God’s great joy in Jesus. new partnership with the Service CorpsWashington, and the Pacific Schumacher’s service to the church of Retired Executives (SCORE), anRim. Schumacher has nurtured a at large also includes positions on organization sponsored by the Smallpowerful sense of ownership and the LCMS Council of Presidents, Business Administration. As a nationalparticipation by congregations and the Council of Presidents’ Pastoral non-profit organization, SCORE pairschurch organizations to accomplish Support Committee, and the working and retired business executivestheir God-given mission and Lutheran World Relief Board of with people in need of business advice.purpose. Directors. Executives volunteer their time and theSchumacher is passionate in his Schumacher’s dedication extends service is free.support of the District’s Leadership to Concordia University where heAdvancement Process (LAP), serves on the Board of Regents. Hiswhich trains lay leaders to serve leadership has been instrumental inas lay ministers in Word and the campus expansion campaigns, theService ministry as well as to serve creation of the Art & Carol Wahlersas licensed deacons in Word and Center for Applied Lutheran Leadership,Sacrament ministry. His vision has as well as efforts to establish a newbeen to continue empowering “the law school in Boise, Idaho.willing, able, and gifted lay women For Schumacher, no two days inand men, beginning in Alaska and the work of God’s kingdom are alike;moving to the centers of the church.” April 28 « »May 2, May 3, and June 5 James Loewen, sociologist, professor, and author of several books including Lies My Teacher Told Me: Everything Your More than 300 students graduated from Concordia High School History Textbook Got Wrong, made a stop University this spring and summer with ceremonies in at Concordia to discuss the findings of his popular book, Sundown Towns: A hidden dimension of American Racism. Portland, Klamath Falls, and Medford. The class of12 concordia connection 2009 represents 57 towns in Oregon, 18 states, and three countries.

Campus Life The School of Management a partnership with SCORE to foster tenure, he led the effort to create theinvited the Portland SCORE chapter relationship building with businesses Crossroads House Counseling Center,to consider opening an office at in northeast Portland, Clark County, which has become a place of healingthe university, the first of its kind and points east along the Columbia and development for hundredsin the United States. Concordia’s River Corridor. Douglas Kindred, of students. McGlasson has alsolocation and its commitment to national chairman of SCORE in mentored numerous students seekingcommunity service were important Washington D.C., and a member of the careers in counseling.ingredients in SCORE’s decision to Concordia University’s Foundation “Terry has been a student favoriteaccept the invitation. In addition Board of Directors, encouraged the in campus worship settings,” saidto helping clients, the program will partnership and sees the potential for Dr. Glenn Smith, Concordia’s Viceprovide Concordia’s undergraduate a national model in which SCORE canand MBA students with real-world build relationships with their clients by Provost. “He has broughtopportunities, such as attending providing services at selected a message of hope andSCORE client counseling sessions universities. healing to all of us.”and participating in hands-on “The SCORE partnership is aninternships. Because more than expansion of Concordia’s servant I have really enjoyed20 percent of SCORE’s clients leadership mission,” said Dr. Stephencurrently come from north and Braun, dean of Concordia’s School of the privilege to witnessnortheast Portland, a SCORE office Management. “Our students will applywill open on the Concordia campus their knowledge and skills for the first-hand, peoplethis September to provide more benefit of our community’s non-profitconvenient access to resources. organizations, start-up ventures and healing and growing. “The Concordia University small business enterprises in conjunctionlocation represents a new model with volunteer SCORE counselors.” “I have really enjoyed the privilegefor SCORE,” said Steve Blanton, to witness first-hand, people healingchairman of the Portland Metro Terry and growing,” said McGlasson.SCORE chapter. “By successfully McGlasson “Counseling is a very personalpartnering with Concordia and Says Goodbye relationship, and hundreds ofexpanding the reach of SCORE students have come into my officeservices, we stand to expand our After serving the Concordia and trusted me with the beautiful,profile and deliver better services community for nearly nine and often times difficult aspects ofto the community. In addition, this years as Director of Counseling their lives. I can’t imagine a moremodel will provide new opportunities and Disability Services, Terry honored role to play.”for SCORE counselors to serve McGlasson is leaving his position to McGlasson will spend the nextthe small business and university pursue a new ministry direction. year focusing on his research andcommunities. SCORE hopes to When McGlasson was hired, he writing his dissertation—the finaluse this partnership as a model for became the first full-time counselor component of his Ph.D. program.chapters across the country.” in Concordia’s history. During his Following that, he will search for a The pilot project was spearheaded full-time faculty appointment.by Dr. Steve Krause, chairman of “I want to say ‘thank you’ to all thethe Business Administration Degree students, staff, and faculty who haveProgram at Concordia. He envisioned supported me, encouraged me, and taught me so much about life and relationships,” added McGlasson. »June 8 Summer 2009 13 The eighth annual Fore the Students Golf Tournament, presented by Group MACKENZIE, raised money for student-athlete scholarships and programs.

ALONG,FASCINATINGJOURNEY:THE STORY OF THE VOLGA GERMANSAND HOW THEIR HISTORY IS NOWpreserved AT CONCORDIA.by Brent MaiAt the invitation of Catherine the trek in Oranienbaum, a town just west of St. Petersburg, died enthe Great (1729-1796), route. Those who did reach themore than 30,000 colonists, steppes along the lower Volga River foundprimarily from the centralregion of present-day that the land was inhospitable, and manyGermany, founded 106 were not prepared for an agrarian lifestyle.colonies along the unsettled Pugachev’s marauding bands destroyedRussian steppe near the banks of the several colonies in 1773-74, and nomadicVolga River between 1764 and 1772. The early settlers tribes took more than 1,200 colonists intowere drawn to the area by Catherine’s promise to rid them captivity.of the hardships that had befallen war-ravaged Central Despite these odds, the colonies survived andEurope for most of the preceding century. Among other flourished. They turned the Volga German region intothings, she promised them religious freedom, exemption one of the most productive in the Russian Empire.from military conscription, and 30 years without taxes. Churches and schools were built in the colonies. Colleges The journey from Western Europe to the Volga was and seminaries were established. Factories and mills werearduous. Of the nine existing transport lists, researchers constructed. The original colonists and their descendantshave determined that 16.9 percent of those who started were joined in 1812 by 181 mostly German soldiers14 concordia connection



Feature Storywho had been a part of Napoleon's Army collectivization and poor politicalwhen it invaded Russia. Beginning in 1848, a group of decisions during the early Soviet Years, aMennonite colonists from West Prussia also founded famine swept the land in 1921-22. In some colonies asseveral villages among the extant Volga German colonies. many as one-third of the Volga Germans perished.The increasing number of Colonists outgrew the land that In an effort to stabilize the area, on February 20,had originally been allotted for them. In the late 1840s 1924, the remaining Volga German communities werethey received permission to establish “Daughter Colonies” incorporated into the Soviet Socialist system. But poorto the south and east of the original settlements. central planning resulted in another famine in 1931-32. In 1874, the colonists’ exemption from military Nevertheless, according to the census of 1939, there wereconscription was revoked. Many, fearful for the lives of 605,500 ethnic Germans living in the Volga Germantheir sons, immigrated to the United States, Canada, Republic. When Hitler invaded Russia in 1941, StalinArgentina, and Brazil seeking the same freedoms andopportunities that had driven their ancestors proclaimed the Volga Germans to be enemiesto immigrate to Russia more than 100 years of the state. In a decree issued on August 28,earlier. 1941, they were stripped of their citizenship Those who remained in Russia suffered and the Republic was officially abolished ontremendously. As they feared, most families September 7, 1941. Within two weeks, the citieshad to give their sons as soldiers for the and towns along the lower Volga were emptiedRusso-Turkish War (1877-78) and the of their German inhabitants. They were loadedRusso-Japanese War (1904-05). Severe into cattle cars with whatever they could carryfamine struck in 1891-92. Moreover, the and shipped to Siberia and Kazakhstan. TheirVolga Germans never integrated completely homes were occupied by Ukrainians andinto Russian society. Even in 1914 as they celebrated the Russians fleeing the advancing Nazi Army. A150th anniversary of the establishment of Dobrinka, culture that had taken 177 years to develop was gone in athe first colony, descendants of the original settlers still matter of days: The Volga German colonies were no more.found themselves officially categorized as “colonist” in the Although the original Volga German colonies noRussian class system. longer exist as such, it has been estimated that there are Many of the Volga Germans prospered financially more than 70,000 Volga German descendants in Brazil,compared to other Russians, and the early communist another 1.5 million in Argentina, and more than sixyears were not kind to them. Thousands were labeled million in the United States and Canada. With the collapseas kulaks (affluent independent farmers who had of the Soviet Union in 1990, those who had been deportedexcessive wealth by communist standards) and were to Asiatic Russia in 1941 have been allowed to emigrate.sent to labor camps or simply executed. As a result of Most (over four million) have gone to Germany.16 concordia connection

Feature StorySo why is there a Center for Volga German Studiesat Concordia University in Portland? The first Volga Germans to immigrate to Portland Concordia’s German heritage is also shared by the Volga Germans. When Concordia University wasnumbered 17 families. They arrived from the dry, founded in 1905, its first classes were held at Trinitygrasshopper-infested plains of Rush and Barton Counties Lutheran Church, then located in the heart of northeastin Kansas in 1881. Most came originally from the Volga Portland’s Volga German community. Many of Trinity’scolonies of Schönfeld and Schöntal with one each from oldest families are from the Volga German colonies ofNeu-Yagodnaya, Brunnental, and Rosenfeld. They took Brunnental and Neu-Hussenbach.advantage of reduced fares being offered by the Union In 2003, Concordia hired Professor Brent Mai, notedPacific Railroad and came by train to San Francisco. Volga German historian, as Concordia’s fourth universityThere they boarded steamers of Henry Villard’s Oregon librarian. Professor Mai has researched Volga GermanSteamship Company for the final leg to Portland. These history for more than 30 years. When the Center washearty pioneers were followed in 1882 by a group made established in 2004, he became its director. He hasup of 21 families who had settled in Hitchcock County, authored numerous books and articles documenting theNebraska. They came originally from the colonies of immigration of the Germans to Russia in the 1760s. HisFrank, Hussenbach, Kolb, Messer, and Walter. interest in the socio-economic migration patterns of this Many of these early settlers, having found the forested unique ethnic group culminated in the publication of thearea around Portland unsuitable for farming, moved complete 1798 census which details the economic andon to the Palouse Country of west-central Washington agricultural activity as well as the population of the thenin 1883. Those who remained settled in the small town 101 extant colonies. More recently, he has been translatingof Albina (now the Albina neighborhood) just across the documents relating to the censuses of the Volgathe Willamette River from Portland. Between 1888 and German colonies in 1834 and 1857.1890, a considerable number of Volga Germans from the With such a robust historical connection and academiccolonies of Balzer and Frank moved to Albina, followed expertise, Concordia is the proper home for the Center forfrom 1890 to 1895 by an even larger number from the Volga German Studies.colony of Norka. Summer 2009 17

Feature StoryaTthCe oCnecnotredrifaoUr VniovlegrasiGtyerm a n S t u d ie s In 2004, Concordia University began discussions on establishing an academic entity that would focus on the study of“all things Volga German.” Research on the competitive landscape identified several other organizations, groups, andinstitutions involved in the study of and/or preservation of Volga German culture and heritage, but it was determinedthat none of them had the level of academic focus toward scholarly investigation that was intended at Concordia. TheCenter for Volga German Studies (CVGS) was born.The CVGS accomplishes its stated purposes through five complimentary and inter-related components: 1) collections,2) education, 3) publishing, 4) collaboration, and 5) clearing house.1. Collections: The CVGS actively collects to educate those interested in learning more about the Volga Germans. Undergraduate seminar-style the folklore, songs, literature, objects of art and craft courses are taught through the History Department of that illustrate and document the style and mode of the university's College of Theology, Arts, & Sciences. life, conditions, events and activities, forms and style Conferences and courses are held at Concordia of worship, and government of the Volga Germans University and other locales depending upon while living in Russia as well as after emigrating to respective curricular objectives. the Western Hemisphere. The CVGS collection also documents the cultural, material, and aesthetic 3. Publishing: The CVGS makes the contributions of Germans from Russia and their descendants to the culture and social order of the results of its research available by publishing Western Hemisphere. These materials are acquired papers, pamphlets, books and articles, in print by bequest, purchase, gift, or accepted on loan. or electronically. Since most of the original documentation on the Volga Germans is in German or2. Education: To further Concordia’s Russian, the Center seeks to provide these resources to English-language researchers through translation. educational objectives, the CVGS sponsors conferences on various aspects of Volga German history, folklore, linguistics, and culture in order18 concordia connection Volga Germans by the Numbers

4. Collaboration: Many unique collections Much of the material acquired to-date by the CVGS has been held in storage pending the completion of its new of materials relating to the Volga Germans exist home in the George R. White Library & Learning Center. elsewhere, particularly in governmental and quasi- With the opening of the new library in August, the Center governmental facilities outside North America. for Volga German Studies will be located on the west Consequently, one of the important roles of the end of the third floor and these resources will be made Center is to actively seek assistance from and provide available for researchers. assistance to other organizations in the collection, documentation, indexing, and preservation of such Critical study of distinctive cultural histories and materials pertaining to Volga Germans. experiences can transform our understanding of society. Creative collaboration among researchers interested in5. Clearing House: It is not a goal of the Volga Germans and their descendants will generate a deeper appreciation of how this group has contributed the Center to recreate collections or expertise that profoundly to history, culture, language, politics, and faith exists elsewhere. The Center maintains a web-based all over the world. clearing house to help researchers locate materials related to the Volga Germans regardless of their location and to locate experts in Volga German history and culture. Researchers, scholars, and others knowledgeable about such materials are actively solicited for contributions to this clearing house.177 | years the Germans lived along the Volga River in 1762-1796 | reign of Catherine the Great, 1729-1796 Russia July 22, 1763 | Second Decree inviting the Germans to settle along the Volga30,623 | Central Europeans who settled along the Volga June 29, 1764 | founding of the first colony: Dobrinka 1874 | first Volga Germans immigrate to the United States106 | colonies founded (1764-1772) 1881 | first Volga Germans arrive in Portland August 28, 1941 | dissolution of the Volga German Republic500 | number of Volga German families living in NE June 29, 2009 | 245th Anniversary of the founding of the Portland in 1920 Volga German colonies600,000 | Volga Germans deported to Siberia in 19414,000,000 | German Russians now living in Germany

Notable Volga Germans Feature Story Frederick Krug (1855-1930): founder of Krug Brewing Company (Omaha, Nebraska); Ancestral colony: Dietel. Reinhardt Steinfeld (1861-1934): founder of Steinfeld Pickles; Ancestral colony: Holstein. Joseph Kessler (1862-1933): Bishop of Tiraspol (Russia); Ancestral colony: Louis. David Towes (1870-1947): Chairman of the Conference of Mennonites in Canada, 1914-1940; Ancestral colony: Lysanderhöh. Johannes Schleuning (1879-1961): Human Rights Activist; Ancestral colony: Neu-Norka. José Weimann Schwindt (1892-1961): Bishop of the Diocese of Santiago del Estero (Argentina); Ancestral colony: Kamenka. George Henry Sauer, Sr. (1910-1994): fullback with the Green Bay Packers; Ancestral colony: Norka. Friedrich Bolger (1915-1988): Poet; Ancestral colony: Stahl am Karaman. Boris Rauschenbach (1915-2000): Russian Rocket Scientist; Ancestral colony: Katharinenstadt. Johnny Hopp (1916-2003): 1st Baseman, St. Louis Cardinals; Ancestral colony: Frank. Jorge Novak (1928-2001): Bishop of the Diocese of Quilmes (Argentina); Ancestral colony: Kamenka. Willard Schmidt (1928-2007): pitcher with the St. Louis Cardinals & Cincinnati Reds; Ancestral colony: Katharinenstadt. Alfred Schnittke (1934-1998): Russian composer; Ancestral colony: Kamenka. Philip Anschutz (1939-): owner of Los Angeles Kings; Ancestral colony: Nieder-Monjou. George Sauer, Jr. (1943-): wide receiver with New York Jets; Ancestral colony: Norka. Jim Geringer (1944-): Governor of Wyoming (R) 1995-2003; Ancestral colony: Lauwe. Pipo Pescador (1946-): Argentinean actor and children’s theatre director; Ancestral colony: Galka. Ron Schueler (1948-): pitcher with Chicago White Sox; Ancestral colony: Katharinenstadt. Sergio Denis [born Hector Hoffmann] (1949-): Argentinean pop singer; Ancestral colony: Dehler. Doug Schmick (1949-): co-founder of McCormick & Schmicks Seafood Restaurants; Ancestral colony: Yagodnaya Polyana. Les Dudek (1951-): American songwriter & guitarist; Ancestral colonies: Frank & Kolb. Joseph Werth (1952-): Bishop of the Diocese of the Transfiguration (Novosibirsk, Russia); Ancestral colony: Schönchen. Nick Binedell (1953-): Founding Director of the Gordon Institute of Business Science, University of Pretoria (Johannesburg, South Africa); Ancestral colony: Nieder-Monjou. Brian Deines (1955-): Children’s book illustrator; Ancestral colony: Kratzke. Jerry Sieb (1956-): D.C. Bureau Chief for the Wall Street Journal (taken hostage in Iran in 1987); Ancestral colony: Ober-Monjou. Steven Dietz (1958-): American playwrite; Ancestral colony: Dönhof. Pawel Blehm (1980-): International Chess Grandmaster; Ancestral colony: Kratzke. Tips on tracing your family tree 1. Gather all of the genealogy materials you have in one place, including documents, photos, letters, the family Bible, etc. 2. Interview family members. Collect stories as well as names and dates. 3. Take notes and record what you’ve learned on a family tree chart to easily track your progress. 4. Focus on one surname, family, or relative at a time. This will make your search more manageable. 5. Use online resources as well as public records. If possible, visit the places your family lived and search libraries, courthouses, historical societies, and cemeteries for clues. 20 concordia connection

Feature Story The Center for Volga German Studies has published Concordia University’s first books, a trilogy entitled “The 21 Volga Flows Forever.” The author, Sigrid Weidenweber, recalls firsthand the horrific aftermath of fascism and her daring escape from behind the Iron Curtain as a young woman, leaving everything behind. Catherine, the first volume, brings to life the fascinating historical character of Catherine the Great who invited her native countrymen to settle the Russian frontier. The second volume, The Volga Germans, follows Vadim and Svetlana to the German colonies along the lower Volga River and into the lives of the Meininger family and their friends, who had settled in Norka and later move to Schaffhausen. In the third volume, From Gulag to Freedom, Weidenweber weaves her story of the Volga Germans though the hardships of collectivization and deportation during the Soviet years and brings young Katharina to join the Volga Germans, who had earlier immigrated to the San Joaquin Valley of Central California. All three volumes are available directly from Concordia, through Amazon, or a bookstore near you. If your local bookstore does not have them in stock, ask them to contact the Center at 503-493-6460.Further Reading Lists To learn more about the history and culture of the Volga Germans, the following books are recommended. Most are available through the online Bookstore of the CVGS (http://cvgs.cu-portland.edu/bookstore.cfm) or in your local library. Beratz, Gottieb. The German Colonies on the Lower Volga: Their Origin and Early Development. Trans. Adam Giesinger. (Lincoln, NE: American Historical Society of Germans from Russia, 1991.) Dietz, Jacob E. History of the Volga German Colonists. (Lincoln, NE: American Historical Society of Germans from Russia, 2005.) Haynes, Emma S. A History of the Volga Relief Society. (Lincoln, NE: American Historical Society of Germans from Russia, 1982.) Kloberdanz, Timothy and Rosalinda. Thunder on the Steppe: Volga German Folklife in a Changing Russia. (Lincoln, NE: American Historical Society of Germans form Russia, 1993.) Koch, Fred. The Volga Germans: In Russia and the Americas, from 1763 to the Present. (University Park, PA: Pennsylvania State University Press, 1977.) Pleve, Igor R. The German Colonies on the Volga: The Second Half of the Eighteenth Century. Trans. Richard Rye. (Lincoln, NE: American Historical Society of Germans from Russia, 2001.) Sallet, Richard. Russian-German Settlement in the United States. (Fargo, ND: North Dakota Institute for Regional Studies, 1974.) Scheuerman, Richard D. and Trafzer, Clifford E. The Volga Germans: Pioneers of the Northwest. (Moscow, ID: University Press of Idaho, 1980.) Sinner, Peter. Germans in the Land of the Volga. Tran. Dona Reeves-Marquardt. (Lincoln, NE. American Historical Society of Germans from Russia, 1989.) Sinner, Samuel D. The Open Wound: The Genocide of German Ethnic Minorities in Russia and the Soviet Union, 1915-1949 and Beyond. (Fargo, ND: Germans from Russia Heritage Collection, North Dakota State University Libraries, 2000.) Summer 2009

by Kassie Boehringer Current Issues Concordgial'soMbBAaplropgraemradsdps aective that experience as the School of Management launches a one-of- a-kind Asian Business Experience in the spring of 2010. The 16-week Asia Business Experience features a rigorous curriculum with classes at Concordia and at Soochow University in Suzhou, China (Portland’s “Sister City”). Students will also work closely with northwest companies doing business in China and will spend a The growth of China’s economy Despite the recent economic week consulting on pre-arranged in the last quarter of a century is downturn, there continues to be projects in the firms’ Suzhou or unparalleled and has triggered huge opportunities for Northwest Shanghai offices. many changes for some northwest companies in the Chinese “No other program offers quite companies. China is Oregon’s second marketplace. But success is dependent the same experience,” said Steve largest trading partner and will soon on a thorough understanding Braun, dean of Concordia’s School pass Japan as the second largest world of China’s political and cultural of Management. “In addition to economy behind the United States. differences. classes on Concordia’s campus, the While China is home to 1.3 billion Just as companies wishing to people (20 percent of the world’s compete and thrive on a global scale population), the rapidly expanding must recognize China’s influence, middle class accounts for an business students wishing to excel in estimated 150 to 300 million people today’s tight job market will hold a with an increasing demand for goods competitive edge if they have first- and services. According to some hand knowledge of Chinese business estimates, China’s middle class could practices. more than double in the next 15 to Concordia MBA students 20 years. and MBA alumni can now get 22 concordia connection

Current IssuesAsia Business Experience features course in Mandarin Chinese and Management faculty see the AsiaChinese business classes taught by work in Chinese firms. Business Experience as just theChinese professors. Students then In partnership with the program, beginning: “Because globalizationapply what they’ve learned to help Pacific Northwest and Fortune is changing the way we do business,existing companies in China, giving a 500 companies doing business we hope to expand this program andperspective that is truly unique.” in China, including Nike, Esco add experiences to Greater China, Concordia added two new faculty Corporation, National Oilwell including Taiwan and Hong Kong, asmembers to oversee the program. Dr. Varco, Golder & Associates, and KIC well as India and Japan,” said Braun.Randall Donahue serves as chairman International, will provide real-world For additional information or toof the MBA program, director learning experiences. Corporate find out how your organization canof the Asia Business Experience, representatives will serve both as become involved with Concordiaand professor of Global Business. guest speakers and mentors, and will University’s MBA program and theDonahue is an expert in international help students develop their individual Asia Business Experience, contactmarketing. He has worked extensively consulting projects. Upon their the School of Management atin Asia and has led study-abroad return, students will present their 503-493-6250.programs to China and other Asian findings to the client companies. Individuals interested incountries. Dr. Thomas Kindel, a Dean Braun and the School of participating in Concordia’s MBAworld-class China scholar, is and the Asia Business Experiencethe program’s new visiting program should contact Carrie Duffeydistinguished professor of directly at cduffey@cu-portland.edu orAsian Business. He has nearly 503-493-6293.30 years of experience workingand consulting for companiesin Asia, in addition to teachingcollege-level courses in theUnited States (including atThe Citadel), Hong Kong, andSingapore. The Asia BusinessExperience is divided intofive modules which includeclasses on China’s businessenvironment, culture,demographics, and businessstrategies. Initially, the course runsone weekend per month, March22 through June 3. Followingcoursework and preparation for theirinternational management consultingproject, students will travel to Chinafrom June 12 through June 26 foradditional classes taught in Englishby business professors at SoochowUniversity. They also will take a brief Dr. Randall Donahue (above) serves as chairman of the MBA program, director of the China program, and professor of Global Business; Dr. Thomas Kindel (lower right) is our distinguished visiting professor of Asian Business. Summer 2009 23

Alumni NotesAluNmonteisWhat’s new in your life?Stay in touch and keep us posted on all of your news.New baby, new job, new spouse, new house, greatvacation, milestone anniversaries, recent retirement...send us an e-mail and give us the update on what’shappening in your life. Feel free to include photos,including high-resolution (300 dpi) wedding and baby 819083 ’sAllen Larsen served as scripture usepictures: advisor with Lutheran Bible Translators EMAIL: alumni@cu-portland.edu from 1987-2008. The last 12 ½ yearsOr send mail to Alumni Notes, 2811 NE Holman Street , Portland, OR 97211 he was in Guatemala. He will soon be returning to Guatemala as a site volunteer 1974 919093 ’scoordinator. Dr. Joel M. Schuldheisz, HS has been James Dobberstine recently started named Chair of Concordia University’s teaching environmental science and Exercise & Sport Science Department biology full-time at Lee College in after leading a project team charged with Baytown, Texas. After enjoying teaching the task of developing an undergraduate as an adjunct professor for a few degree program in Exercise & Sport semesters he had the opportunity to join Science (ESS) at Concordia. The proposal the faculty. He writes, “What a lot of fun! developed by the ESS project team was I really enjoy the students and being able officially approved by the Concordia to share my passion for the environment1972 University faculty in December for with them. I have a nice teaching lab, and implementation in Fall 2009. As ESS am working to expand the program fromRev. Bruce A. Rumsch HS ‘70 was the Chair, Dr. Schuldheisz will oversee a a single course offering with multiplefeatured speaker at the 9th Annual variety of functions including course sections to a two course unit (maybe as scheduling, course staffing, budgeting, soon as next year).” and program-specific (CAAHEP)Hillsboro (Ore.) Prayer Breakfast onOct. 21 at Tuality Health Education accreditation activities. Sandy (Thorpe) Luu was named athleticCenter to honor military veterans and director of Liberty High School intheir families. After graduating from 1976 Hillsboro, Ore. After spending 13 yearsConcordia Junior College in 1972, he working in Asia while her husbandwent on to earn a Bachelor’s degree Dr. Richard J. Davis, went to Concordia worked for Nike, she returns to Oregonfrom Concordia College in Ft. Wayne, Portland in 1970-1971 but left to join the as Liberty’s second ever athletic director.Ind. and a Master’s degree in divinity in Air Force. After spending three years in She was recently featured in an article1978 from the Concordia Theological the Air Force, he returned in 1974 and published in the Hillsboro Argus. graduated in 1976 with an associate’sSeminary in Ft. Wayne. Rumsch held the degree. He later graduated from Kathleen A. Miller was recently namedrank of captain in the Chaplain Corps, Concordia Theological Seminary in 1980. vice president and benefits administratorUnited States Navy Reserve, for 20 years After serving congregations and military at Columbia River Bank. She has workedbefore retiring in 2005. He also serves as a chaplaincy, he is now back at Concordia for more than 30 years in humanvolunteer hospital chaplain at Hillsboro’s Theological Seminary. He works for resources and is a certified seniorTuality Hospital. the Board for Pastoral Education as the professional in human resources. personal growth advisor.24 concordia connection

Alumni NotesConcordia Helps Emmy Winner Find His TalentDavid Cottrell HS ’70 came to Concordia Cottrell’s interest in recording Today Cottrell is the coordinator of High School when he was 13—an and composition continued to grow. the Music Industry program at Jamesaspiring musician who had some issues In 1996, Cottrell and his business Madison University in Harrisonburg,with authority. His time at Concordia partner, Chris Mangum, started Va., and he continues to composehelped Cottrell discover his talents and Cottrell-Mangum Music. Together music. His advice to students, “followlaid the groundwork for a fulfilling and they have written more than 150 your hearts.”successful career in music and teaching. soundtracks for documentaries on “I remember when I was 18 and decided that I was going to follow my “After my first year at Concordia, I knew heart and not worry about money. Atthat I had found a place that somehow fit me.” that point, I knew I loved teaching and music. Things have worked out much better than I could have possibly expected.” “After my first year at Concordia, The Discovery Channel, The LearningI knew that I had found a place that Channel, The Travel Channel, Thesomehow fit me,” remembered Cottrell. History Channel, and National Although he had very little musical Geographic. In 2003, they won theexperience, Cottrell was interested in Emmy for “Outstanding Individualcomposing. Achievement in Craft: Music and “By my junior year, I had met David Sound” for the National GeographicMahler, music teacher and band director. Explorer special, “Stalking Leopards.”He taught me some basic music theory “It turns out that Nationaland was very supportive of what I was Geographic had two nominationsdoing,” said Cottrell. “I also started that year for music and sound, oura group, ‘The Washday Blues,’ a very show and another very fast cutclever title if you would have asked documentary, ‘Hornets fromme back then. We played some of my Hell!’” said Cottrell. “Now,original songs.” During his years at which do you think is moreConcordia, Cottrell also composed music exciting, leopards that stalkfor the choir. or hornets that come from At the suggestion of Mahler, Cottrell hell? We came to thecontinued to study music in college and conclusion that therediscovered his talent for the French was no way our filmhorn. After graduation, he taught could even possiblyFrench horn at Shenandoah College and win.”Conservatory of Music in Winchester, Va. But there were twoHe also held the principal horn position Emmys awarded infor the Maryland Symphony for six the music and soundseasons. Cottrell went on to play at the category that year. TheKennedy Center in Washington, D.C. and first to be announced wasother well-known venues. “Hornets from Hell!” “I got to play first horn in the pre- “When the emceeBroadway run of ‘Crazy for You,’ which announced that the secondwent on to win the Tony Award for the winner was ‘Stalking Leopards,’Best New Musical in 1993,” said Cottrell. Chris and I looked at each other“I really learned a lot about how things in profound disbelief. We had thewere done, and done well. In addition, I shortest acceptance speech thatwas taking the money that I earned from night. Needless to say, it was aall of my freelancing to buy recording really fun evening.”equipment.” Summer 2009 27

Alumni Notes Michael Thomas earned his Ph.D. in Ricia Schaff MBA ‘06 recently took a Jon and Ryah Dietzen ‘02 lived in Wei Philosophy from the University of Virginia job with Cascadia Behavioral Health Nan, China from 2002-2005 as English in Religious Studies. His dissertation as a program manager. She will be teachers with ELIC. Upon returning from was entitled, Isaiah’s Vision of God: The overseeing a residential correction China, Jon finished his MA in Intercultural Christian Interpretive Struggle Over men’s program. Studies at Wheaton College in Illinois. Isaiah 6:1-5 in Early Christianity. Thomas Amalia (Sandoval) Shaner ‘06 MEd They then settled in Gig Harbor, Wash. is an associate professor of Classical Ryah is busy with Evie (born August 31, Languages/Humanities in Concordia’s recently earned her US Citizenship 2006) and Cole (born on Jon's birthday, College of Theology, Arts, & Sciences. certificate and became a US Citizen. December 29, 2008); Jon is the school She has been teaching in Hood director for the English as a Second 1994 River, Ore. schools since 2002 and Language (ESL) program at Highline is currently a first grade teacher Community College in South Seattle. Shawn Davitt has been selected to be the at Westside Elementary school in Hood assistant principal of Five Oaks Middle River. She has two sons, Jason and Darin. Kirsten Holden MAT has started a fitness School in Beaverton, Ore. After working camp for women in Redmond, Ore. The in the Job Corps, he joined the district in 2001 camp is called All-Terrain Boot Camp and 2000 as a counselor at Whitford Middle it includes a variety of exercises designed School in Beaverton. Julie Anne Hughes MAT married Paul to help women. She was recently featured Vincent Herschell on August 9, 2008 in in an article in the Redmond Spokesman. 1997 Camas, Wash. She currently works as a Susan Linn joined the team at Jan teacher and resides in North Bonneville, Stockton PC, a Vancouver, Wash.-based Heather (Jones) Wash. accounting and business consulting Johnson MBA ‘04 Julie Ann (Lasher) Henton MAT firm. She is an accountant and certified and her husband married David Michael Henton in QuickBooks Pro advisor and has worked Aaron welcomed Hawaii on December 8, 2008. for more than 27 years in accounting and their daughter Lila Jennifer Hofmann co-wrote an article small business development. Mae on April 14, “Fate Tracing Reveal the Endothelial 2009. Heather Origin of Hematopietic Stem Cells” 2003 and Aaron live in for the December 4, 2008 issue of the Mississippi. scientific journal Cell: Stem Cell. Nicole Coit and Alvin Coit ‘01 welcomed their second child, Kainoa Joh Coit on Sylvia McDaniel was hired as the 2002 February 12, 2009. executive director of Portland Wade Stewart joined the staff of Community Media and will oversee Andrea Anderson was married to Patrick Vancouver, Wash.-based Educational the organization which manages six McDonald at St. Michael's Lutheran Opportunities for Children and Families public access channels on Cable TV. Church next door to Concordia. “I would as training manager. He spent six years in also like to share more wonderful news. finance and is pursuing a MBA through 1999 On May 9th, I will be graduating with the University of Phoenix. a Master in Special Education from Elizabeth (Rupp) Barton and her University of Nevada, Las Vegas.” husband Bill welcomed a baby girl, Lois00’sElizabeth, on May 2, 2008. 2000 Sarah (Longden) Overbay, along with her husband, Lyle and sons, Adam and Alex, has just welcomed her third son Luke born January 21, 2009.26 concordia connection

Alumni NotesConcordia University Alumni & Friends Tour led by Dr. Michael A. Thomas Treasures of GreeceMay 13 to 24, 2010Embark on a journey through Greece worthy of Homer’s epics.Along your travels through Athens, Olympia, and Cape Sounion, ascend the mythicalmountain perches of Greek gods and their temples. Stand where the first Olympic athletescompeted, visit the site where the Oracle once foretold the future, and walk the cavernousstreets where Christianity took root and forever changed the Western world.Led by Dr. Michael A. Thomas, associate professor of Classical Languages/Humanities,this 12-day adventure includes stays in Athens, Patras, and Argolida, and a cruise throughthe mythic Greek Islands. For more information contact Dr. Michael A. Thomas,503-493-6429 or mithomas@cu-portland.edu.Summer 2009 27

Alumni Notes game unlike any I’ve coached. She’s Fleet and Cameron struck up a such a positive person and a lot of friendship and Cameron offered to help her success can be attributed to her Capital Football in any way possible. passion for the game and for others.” So Capital Football gave her a car, While finishing her psychology a phone, and a map and sent her to degree in the spring of 2007, Cameron schools throughout the region. began putting together a trip to “I was like, ‘I get paid to do this?’” Mississippi to help Katrina victims. Cameron said. “I love this! I get to go She raised more than $3,000 in a to schools, be myself, and talk about month, and spent the summer soccer to the girls.” volunteering for 30 hours a week in Using her love of soccer and her exchange for the chance to live in a passion and energy, she drummed warehouse for free. up scores of girls to come play in the After graduation and the Mississippi newly formed league. The fruits of experience, Cameron hopped on a her labor were captured in a recent plane, flew to New Zealand, and took article published in the Northern up residence with the 72-year-old Courier newspaper. Young girls turnedYoung Alumna Brings Passion for Soccerto Help Girls a World Away out in the hundreds for a mid-week tournament in March. A similarNoel Cameron ’07 can’t slow down. father of a friend she played indoor tournament a few weeksNot that she wants to. The soccer with. Her friend sent his father later drew similarRainier, Ore. native has been running a picture of Noel so he could identify numbers.full steam for years with no reason her at the airport. It was supposed to “That job is perfectto stop now. Her boundless energy be a temporary living situation but a for Noel,” Landy said.springs from a soul committed to year later, they’re best friends. “She loves people, sheliving life, helping others, and leaving “He’s still my closest friend in New loves to get to knowher mark on the world. Zealand,” Cameron laughs. “He comes people, and she has a At 25, Cameron has already done to support me in all my games and very adventurous heart.a lot, from living in a warehouse events, and I’ve gotten him to be active She’s not afraid to takein Katrina-ravaged Mississippi to and get out and swim again. It’s been chances. Those are thetraveling sight-unseen to live in New an amazing dream.” type of people who canZealand. Through a life of change, The soccer community in New make a difference.”soccer has been a constant driving Zealand is a tight-knit conglomeration. Making a difference hasforce and a source of joy and personal At first, Cameron worked as a always been a trait ofgrowth. bartender and a nanny for several Cameron. Whether passing “I’ve gotten job opportunities months. Then she met Tracy Fleet, out food to hurricanebecause I had energy, passion, and I’d who is an administrator in the Capital refugees, teaching grade-give anything to help,” Cameron said Football organization in Wellington, schoolers the joy of arecently. “I just love helping out where New Zealand. well-struck shot on goal,people need it.” At the time, New Zealand was or getting her 72-year-old After transferring to Concordia experiencing a dearth of opportunities roommate back in thefrom Warner Pacific, where she played for girls to play soccer against other pool, Cameron has alwayssoccer for two seasons, Cameron girls. Too often, the leagues were managed to touch peoplewas part of two Cascade College co-ed meaning some of the girls were in a positive way.Conference championships with the getting left behind or otherwise “I came to CU andCavs, and back-to-back trips to the didn’t feel comfortable enough in found myself,” Cameron says. national tournament. their abilities to try new things or “It was the best thing I ever did and “She is such a soccer junkie,” grow as leaders. I loved every minute of it.”Landy said. “She has a passion for the Enter Cameron.28 concordia connection

Alumni Notes 2004 Kenna Kay Maltman married John Year. She also played in the European W. (JW) Walker on November 24 in Cup “A” Pool in Prague, Czech Republic, Danny Jenkins ‘04 was selected as a Lilly Warrenton, Ore. She teaches sixth grade against teams from various European Graduate Fellow. Jenkins will be studying at Peterson Elementary in the Klamath countries (Austria, Italy, Holland, Spain, French and German intellectual history County school district. Germany, and Belgium). She was offered in a doctoral program at Columbia contracts in both Spain and Germany University this fall. 2007 for 2009, but decided to stay in her Rachel (Lefebvre) Williams MEd was recently elected into the Clatskanie Tim Brown and Sara Eustice-Brown hometown of Kent, High School athletic hall of fame. welcomed a son, Dylan Patrick, on June 9, Wash. to pursue further She just completed her tenth year of 2008. Sara is the Director of Christian education. teaching and coaching. Education and Family Ministry at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Vancouver, 2008 2005 Wash., and Tim works for Penske Truck Leasing in Portland, Ore. Nikki Nelson married Barbara Penn MAT is a fourth grade Christina Hodge is enrolled at Argosy Joseph O’Brien on teacher in St. Helens and writes, “My University and is in a program to receive December 28, 2008 entire class passed the fourth grade her MA in Counseling Psychology. in Glide, Ore. Nikki is state math test. This is huge! My Tabitha Jensen married Matthew currently doing her student principal had never seen this happen Blankenbiller at Portland's Overlook teaching in Portland. in her 29 years where every single student House on September 6, 2008. The couple in a public school class passed…I treated is currently living and working in Amy Koppes married Adrian my students to a Popsicle party yesterday, Wilsonville, Ore. Lawson ‘07 on December 2, and we’re still a bit on cloud nine today.” Jyndia Schaible has been accepted into 2008 in Maui, Hawaii. The Wendy Peterson and her husband, Alan, George Washington University’s Doctor couple now lives in Spokane, Wash. welcomed their first child, Sierra, on of Physical Therapy program. October 8, 2008. Wendy, Alan, and Sierra Annele Huckins played professional 2009 currently live in Hillsboro, Ore. softball after graduating from Concordia in Rotterdam, Holland Amber Ford has recently been installed 2006 for the “Eurostars.” In the summer of as Intern for the Marshall Christensen 2008, she played in Skovde, Sweden, Foundation (MCF) for the 2008-2009 Adam Garyn DeSemple married Erin for the Saints. Her team won the academic year. She will support the MCF Marie Painter on August 16, 2008. He Swedish National Championships, in public relations and related duties. works as an engineering technician for and she was named Pitcher of the the City of Vancouver.In MemoriamGary “Louie” William Lewis HS ‘56 Richard Harold Post Jr. ‘77 passed away on December 30, 2008. He was an office clerkpassed away on January 20, 2009. He for the Alzheimer’s Association. Survivors include daughters, Jennifer Kirpatrick andworked at Apripac, formerly known as Kirsten Montgomery; son, Nicolas; mother and stepfather, Donna and W. Russell Jones;Blue Lake Packers for over 40 years. He father and stepmother, Richard and Marilyn; sister, Nancy Young; brothers, Lee andis survived by his daughter, Jill and son, Steve; and stepsisters, Carol McGhee and Lynn Fletcher.Mitch; grandsons Andrew, Daniel, Kyle,and younger sisters, Linda and Terry. Summer 2009 29

Reunion Weekend August 15 october 24-25, 2009 Alumni Soccer and Volleyball Games Celebrate your Concordia connections and see how August 26 we have grown! George R. White Library & Learning All alumni are invited back to campus Center Dedication Service for an unforgettable weekend of reminiscing and fun! Special celebrations August 29 for the milestone classes of ten years (1999), twenty years (1989), and fifty years George R. White Library & Learning for the Junior College class of 1959. Other Center Open House festivities for the weekend will include tours of the new George R. White Library & Learning August 30 Center, worship, the Alumni Basketball games, Alumni of Distinction Award, and Athletic Hall of Fame CU Sunday at St. Peter the inductions. Don’t miss this opportunity to reconnect with Fisherman Lutheran Church, your friends, classmates, faculty, and staff. Lincoln City Visit www.cu-portland/reunion September 11 for more information and to register. Founder’s Day stay connected... join CU Circle September 27 Your exclusive on-line connection to classmates and the Concordia community that: CALL Mission Seminar,  reconnects you with friends “We’re Not in Kansas Anymore”  gives you access to job openings and career assistance, October 21 as well as to posting jobs and recruiting alums Three Cups of Tea co-author Greg Mortenson Lecture  plugs you into all that is happening at CU October 24 – 25 Register and become a member at Reunion Weekend with Special www.cu-portland.edu/cucircle Celebrations for the Milestone Classes of 1999, 1989, and Jr.Other opportunities to stay connected with fellow CU alumni can be found on Facebook and LinkedIn. College Class of 1959; and Alumni Basketball Games www.cu-portland.edu/linkedin_alumni www.cu-portland.edu/facebook_alumni October 25 for more information contact Director of Alumni Relations, Andrea Scofield at 503-493-6454 or alumni@cu-portland.edu Reformation Festival at Zion Lutheran Church – Portland30 concordia connection October 30 – 31 CALL Symposium, “Tough Questions/Thoughtful Answers in the None Zone” October 31/Halloween Residence Halls are Open to the Public for Trick-or-Treating November 12 – 14 CALL Peacemakers Seminar November 13 – 14 Preview Weekend for High School Seniors December 4 – 6 Christmas Chorale, Luminary Society Luncheon, Community Christmas Tree Lighting February 11 – 13 Lutheran Elementary School Tournament Stay in the loop at www.cu-portland.edu

Concordia University Alumni & Friends Tour led by professors Dwaine Brandt & Norm Metzler Once a DecadeIt Only HappensEvery ten yearsJoin us for the Oberammergau Passion Play and Tour of Historic Luther Sites Every ten years since the 17th century, the villagers in the Alps of Southern Germany perform the famous Oberammergau Passion Play portraying the last week of Jesus’ life. Be a part of the next historic event and visit the locations that influenced the great reformer, Martin Luther, on a twelve-day tour of Germany, Czech Republic, and Austria. Your guides, Concordia University professors Dwaine Brandt and Norm Metzler, will lead you and fellow Concordia alumni on an adventure of fun, fellowship, spiritual growth, and historical significance. In addition to the 2010 Passion Play, you will enjoy a Rhine cruise, a visit to the Buchenwald concentration camp, a tour of Bach’s church in Leipzig, and much more. Tour dates are May 16 to 27, 2010. For complete tour information, to make a reservation and guarantee your spot, or to submit your deposit by October 1, 2009, go to www.cu-portland.edu/germanytour. For any additional information please contact the Office of Alumni & Parent Relations by emailing alumni@cu-portland.edu, or calling 1-800-752-4736. May 16, 2010

The RISE of WOMEN'S by Ian Ruder

Navy & WhiteWhen the time came to submit nominations for the Concordia women’s athlete of the year award, women’s basketball coach Aaron Christian thought he had a sure thing. After all, senior Rebecca Gimeno had already won nearly every awardpossible, including being named a Third-Team NAIA All-American, forhelping lead the Cavaliers to the conference championship and the secondround of the NAIA Tournament. Then he looked at the competition. To win the honor Gimeno would have to beat Jackie Pronovost, a four-timeNAIA First-Team All-American who was also the NAIA Player of the Year andhad guided her team to the national finals and Annie Hess, the two-time, andsoon to be three-time, defending NAIA National Champion in the discus. “How can you compete with that?” he said. That’s exactly the question Concordia’s opponents often foundthemselves asking this year in what was perhaps the best year yet forCavalier women’s sports. Four of the seven women’s sports programs won Cascade CollegiateConference (CCC) titles in the 2008-09 season and five programs matchedor exceeded their best national finish ever, including four programs thatfinished ranked in the top 10 at the NAIA level. The success shouldn’t comeas a surprise to anyone who has been following the steady rise of Cavalierwomen’s sports and if there’s anyone out there who is surprised, the femaleathletes and their coaches have a message for them: get used to it. That message would have been hard to believe as little as 15 years ago. Women's Basketball at NationalsWhile there are traces of organized women’s sports at Concordia dating “It’s a real joy to have the women’s programs competing and being rightSports back as far as the there in the thick of things,” he said. early 1960s, across “I think that’s a testament to the type the board success of athlete the coaches are recruiting is a relatively new and the type of commitment the phenomenon. students have made.” Perhaps the best place to look Longtime in trying to understand the rise of women’s sports at Concordia is professor Dr. Chuck coach Grant Landy’s soccer team. In 12 years as head coach, Landy’sKunert has monitored the rise of the Cavalier women since the days before teams have won 10 conference championships, three NAIA Region ITitle IX when Concordia wasn’t yet a four-year institution and the NAIA titles, and made eight consecutive appearances in the NAIA Nationaldidn’t oversee any women’s sports. Tournament – twice finishing as national runner-up. At the time Concordia had women’s tennis, volleyball, and what Kunert Landy has built a model for success that relies on finding the typedescribed as “essentially intramural” basketball. In 1977-78 he coached the of well-rounded scholar athletes who can thrive in Concordia’s academichigh school girls’ team that used to be associated with the college to an upset and athletic environment, and then plugging them into his tried and trueof the college team. Kunert would later take over the college team and lead system.it to the equivalent of the Sweet 16 for the Association for IntercollegiateAthletics for Women (AIAW), but the fact of the matter in the late 70’s wassimple: “We were bad,” he said. “I don’t think any of our athletic teams wonmore than three games in any one season the first two years I was here.” Much of the foundation for the current success of women’s programs waslaid over the last two decades by former athletic director and current facultyathletic representative, Dr. Joel Schuldheisz. Under his watch, the school expanded to seven women’s sports andcommitted to putting the mechanisms in place for them to achieve success. Now he’s enjoying watching his investments in the women reap dividends.Photo to left, Sarah Saldivar, #11 and Jackie Pronovost, #21 - Women's Soccer Summer 2009 33

Navy & WhiteLindsay Aho - Women's Golf Despite having her season cut short, Gimeno said the season was a “He gets a lot of good players Like Landy did with soccer, special experience.that could probably play at different Christian succeeded by finding the “I think the general consensus ofschools, but they come to Concordia right players and setting the right the team is that we started somethingand it works out well for them,” tone. and it’s going to be a tradition that’ssenior defender, Jackie Pronovost said. “Never have I had so much going to hopefully continue to grow,”“He knows how to match people up chemistry on a team,” said Gimeno. she said.well. He doesn’t recruit people for “That was one of the major reasons Tradition is also sprouting on theour team who won’t fit in.” why we were successful. It wasn’t a golf course, where junior Lindsay Aho Pronovost’s twin, and fellow case of where winning caused our became the first Cavalier to be namedfour-time NAIA All-American, team chemistry. One of the major to NAIA First-Team All-AmericanJustine, credited Landy with creating reasons why we were so successful and played a big part in helping thea tradition where winning feels like was because of our friendships on golf team to a best-ever seventh placethe only option. the team.” finish at the national championships. “You don’t want to be the first While the women’s golf team wasteam that doesn’t go to nationals wrapping up its best season in Southor the first team that doesn’t win Dakota, the track team was doing theconference,” she said. “You don’t same thing in Illinois. Head coachwant to be the one team that makes Randy Dalzell’s team tied for fifth placea mistake and doesn’t win it.” at the NAIA Outdoor Championships Senior basketball star Rebecca and placed eight All-Americans,Gimeno said the soccer team set the including three-time defending discusbar for the other women’s teams and champion, Annie Hess.helped inspire the basketball team to All the success, coupled with strongwhat proved to be a historic year. showings on the men’s side, gave When head coach Aaron Christian Concordia a ninth place ranking fortook over the women’s basketball the NAIA Directors’ Cup, the awardprogram in 2006 it was coming off given to the NAIA school with thefour consecutive losing seasons. most success at the national level.This March the team finished29-4, won its first-ever Cascade Prior to this year,Conference title, and made it to the Concordia’s best finish wassecond round of the NAIA National 18th in 2007.Tournament even after losing Dave Haglund, CascadeGimeno to injury late in the season. Collegiate Conference commissioner, credited the athletic department and said that there was no doubt the Cavaliers could no longer be overlooked. “They have really made Concordia a force at the NAIA level,” Haglund said. “They just have a very solid well-rounded program. They really work at doing things right across the board in all aspects.”34 concordia connection Annie Hess - Discus

“They have really made Concordia a forceat the NAIA level,... They just have a verysolid well-rounded program. They reallywork at doing things right across the boardin all aspects.” » Dave Haglund, Cascade Collegiate Conference commissionerDanielle Clauson, #15 (background) and Angela Gimeno, #23 - Women's Basketball Summer 2009 35

Navy & WhiteGreg Schultz - Hammer Caitlin Verhofstadt - Forward Ben Rue - Pitcher Kelsey Green - Utility Tyler Peake - DefenderConcordia Athletes Capture Highest CCC Honorsto Cap Successful Season A trio of Cavaliers were honored as the best in the Senior Athletes of the Year, and Kelsey Green (softball)conference as Jackie Pronovost and Greg Schultz earned and Ben Rue (baseball) were honored as the Champions ofthe Cascade Collegiate Conference Athlete of the Year Character representatives for Concordia. Schultz took home theAwards, and Caitlin Verhofstadt was named the CCC’S men’s Athlete of the Year award while Jackie Pronovost and AnnieFemale Scholar-Athlete of the Year. Hess (track & field) shared the women’s Athlete of the Year honor. Pronovost, a senior defender on the women’s soccer During the past year, 33 students were recognized as an NAIAteam, was awarded the Female Athlete of the Year All-Americans while 18 were honored as an NAIAafter being named the NAIA’s Player of the Year and Daktronics Scholar-Athletes.earning her fourth straight First-team All-Americanhonor. Schultz, a senior thrower on the track team, Sports Wrap-uptook home the Male Athlete of the Year prize aftersuccessfully defending his national championship in the » Women’s Basketball: Won the conference post-season tournamenthammer throw to finish his career as a five-time NAIA to advance to the NAIA National Championships. Finished withAll-American. Verhofstadt, a four-year player for the a 29-4 record.Cavalier soccer program, led the conference in assistsher final two seasons. » Men’s Basketball: Highlighting the season was a 75-69 win over The three were also recognized at the CU No. 10-ranked Warner Pacific. The Cavs ended the year with aChampions of Character Banquet held in the 20-10 record.Cavalier Gymnasium on April 26. Highlighting the » Men’s Golf: Captured its second straight CCC crownevening was the announcement of the four major with an eight-stroke margin over Corban College.annual awards given to Concordia » Women’s Golf: After winning their secondstudent-athletes. Tyler Peake straight CCC title, the Cavs posted(men’s soccer) and Caitlin Concordia’s best finish at the NAIAVerhofstadt (women’s soccer) were National Championships with anamed the Scholar Athletes of the seventh-place result.Year, Garrett Staples (men’s soccer) » Men’s Track & Field: Tied for third overall at the NAIAand Justine Pronovost (women’s Outdoor Championships.soccer) » Women’s Track & Field: Ended with a fifth-place team result atwerenamed nationals, and eight students recorded All-American performances.the » Baseball: The Cavs opened the year with a win over Lewis-Clarkschool’s State, the defending NAIA champions, but with a 13-19 mark in conference play, fell one position shy of reaching post-season play. » Softball: After 14 games, the Cavs rose to the No. 15 position in the NAIA rankings, the highest appearance by a CU softball team. The36 concordia connection team’s 27 wins and .750 winning percentage both set school records.

Navy & WhiteCavaliers Post Record Finish in NACDA DirectorsCup and Claim CCC All-sports Trophy With seven teams taking home a runner-up performance from the the title game. Also recording theirCascade Collegiate Conference title women’s soccer team, and boosted best all-time finishes were theand 10 programs competing on the by top-five finishes by the men’s and women’s basketball team and thenational stage at the NAIA women’s track and field teams at the men’s soccer team as each squadchampionships, the Concordia athletic NAIA Outdoor Championships, the made it to the ‘Sweet 16’ of the NAIAdepartment garnered its highest end Cavaliers tallied 619.75 points to National Championships.of the year ranking ever by finishing finish inside the top 10 among NAIA “Concordia is blessed to have aninth overall in the NAIA Learfield programs. The Cavaliers held the tremendous group of coaches andSports Directors’ Cup Standings. The highest ranking among CCC schools student-athletes,” said CU athleticCavaliers also earned the 2008-09 CCC for the fourth straight year. director Matt English. “TheseAll-Sports Trophy, given annually to Five teams ended the year with achievements are truly a testamentthe most successful athletics program their best all-time finish, while Grant to their talent, hard work, andin the 11-member conference. Landy’s women’s soccer team tied for dedication.” Highlighted by a national the program’s best result by reachingConcordia Names MelanieHambelton Head VolleyballCoach The Concordia volleyball team “I’m really excited to coach PSU fell to the University of Texas.will start the season with a new at Concordia with this group Hambelton graduated from PSU inhead coach, Melanie Hambelton. of young women,” Hambelton 1983 with a degree in education.Hambelton served as assistant coach said. “I’m looking forward to the “I learned last season that Concordiaduring the 2008 season and began her challenge of coaching at a higher is an extremely inviting and friendlynew role as head coach last March. level and working with student- university,” Hambelton said. “The“I am extremely proud that Melanie athletes who have a passion for faculty, staff, and students provide aaccepted the head volleyball coach collegiate volleyball and who want great atmosphere and I am honoredposition,” said Matt English, athletic to excel and continue to develop in to become a part of that family.”director for Concordia University. their sport.”“I believe she will be a wonderful Hambelton was a five-timefit for Concordia Athletics, with her league coach of the year as welldesire to win as well as develop young as the 2003 and 2005 Oregonwomen of character. She will add to Athletics Association 3A Coachwhat is already an excellent group of of the Year. During her tenure,coaches.” 25 players went on to compete at Before joining Concordia, the collegiate level. In 2008, theHambelton had a successful career community of Estacada renamed theat Estacada (Ore.) High School. In high school gymnasium the Melanie19 seasons at the helm, Hambelton Hambelton Court.posted a 605-149 record while taking As a player, Hambelton played16 teams to the state championship one season at Arizona State beforetournament. She guided the Rangers transferring to Portland State. Sheto eight state title matches, including helped push the Vikings to the AIAWtwo state championships. championship game in 1981, where Summer 2009 37

Navy & WhiteJustine (left) and Jackie (right) Pronovost “There is that connectedness that I don’t think you have with the POTWwEinRsThe ofbyIanRuder other players,” he said. “They’re really Two sets of twins, two teams, two Rebecca was named Third-Team competitive against each other, buttitles, and two unforgettable seasons. All-American, WBCA Honorable they also have a compassion and If that seems a little too Mention All-American and CCC support for one another and they’reconfusing, try to imagine the looks Newcomer of the Year, and Angela able to mix the two together in a wayof bewilderment on opponents faces was Honorable Mention All-CCC. that really pushes them both. Theythis year as they continually found Calculating the odds that two sets can be hard on each other and eventhemselves doing double takes while of such specially talented twins get upset with each other, but they’rethe Concordia women’s soccer and would converge on the campus of a right back hugging and high fivingbasketball teams each relied on their small, Lutheran liberal arts college during the game and supporting eachown set of uber-talented identical in Portland could take a lifetime, but other. It’s really fun to see.”twins. soccer coach Grant Landy needed Both sets of twins laughed at the On the soccer field, Jackie and little time to identify what made the idea that they shared any specialJustine Pronovost wrapped up their twins so special. mental connection by virtue ofamazing four-year run at Concordia being identical twins, but didn’t denyby leading the Cavaliers to the having a deeper bond than mostnational championship game. non-twins could understand. Jackie, a defender, was named “I just love playing with (Justine)NAIA Player of the Year, First-Team because we have a connection on theAll-American, and Cascade Collegiate field,” Jackie said. “I know where she’sConference Defensive Player of the making runs to, or when she needsYear, while Justine, a midfielder, was to pass to me, or if I’m going to playnamed Second-Team All-American a ball into the box, I know whereand CCC Offensive Player of the Year. she’s going to be. Maybe it’s just from On the basketball court, Rebecca so many years playing together orand Angela Gimeno made the most maybe it’s something more.”out of their one year at Concordia That would explain how the twoafter transferring by leading the team sisters hooked up for nine “twin”to its first-ever Cascade Collegiate goals despite playing on oppositeConference title and a second sides of the field and in differentround appearance in the national positions.tournament.38 concordia connection Angela (left) and Rebecca (right) Gimeno

2 sets2 teams2 titles  anTdhtahta'st'JsaJcuksitei,n#e2, 1#102 unforgettable seasons That's Rebecca, #2  and that's Angela, #23 Join the Team! Basketball coach, Aaron Christian Support Concordia also saw evidence of the special sibling Athletics Year Round connection on the Gimeno’s approach to saving balls headed out of bounds. At Concordia, we believe in “As a coach you try to teach your shaping leaders who will kids to throw it to half court,” he transform the world around said, “but with them, I can think of at them. By becoming a Cavalier least a handful of times, maybe two Club member, you provide handfuls of times where one made scholarships, equipment, and the save and the other was right here program support to make to grab it. I was like, okay, that’s the student-athletes' dreams come twin thing I guess.” true. Join the team today, or Rebecca said she can still see the gift a membership to someone puzzled looks on Christian’s face as special, at www.gocugo.com or he asked how she knew where her by calling 503-280-8505. sister was going to be. “There are some things that are Go Cavs Go! pretty cool about having a twin,” she said. 503-280-8505 | WWW.GOCUGO.COM Christian said he quickly learned not to question the twins and to rely on them in tough situations. “It’s kind of uncanny how much they understand,” he said. “The joke on our staff was, well we have the twins, they’ll find a way to get us through it.” The loss of both sets of twins to graduation will leave both teams with some big shoes to fill next year. After the success of the Pronovosts and the Gimenos, will Landy and Christian hit the recruiting trail looking for more twins? “If they can play like them, absolutely,” Christian said.