Concorida Connection: Fall 2010

ConcCoonrdneication P O R T L A N D, O R E G O N • FA L L 2 0 1 0 MUSIC“Beautiful music is the art of the prophets thatcan calm the agitations of the soul; it is one ofthe most magnificent and delightful presentsGod has given us.” » Martin Luther

A Teachable Moment I am a first generation college graduate. I am transformed, and my family is transformed in a way that only a university with a mission to prepare leaders for the transformation of society can do. Graduating from college always been an uncompromising goal for me and another step toward my desired vocation as an attorney and judge. My family is proud that I am the first among them to attend college, and my siblings now have an example to follow. When they are ready to consider college, their aspirations will be high, and they’ll have someone who has gone before them who can help make the journey just a little bit easier through support and understanding. Scholarships made the difference in my ability to afford college, and, I know, that alumni and individual donor gifts to the Concordia Fund fuel those scholarships. I truly could not have attended Concordia without them – I am blessed. The most important scholarship was the honors scholarship because it paid half my tuition. And, having an “honors” distinction at the collegiate level is important for consideration at the graduate level. I also received scholarships through the Concordia Fund. Other foundations and my church also provided important tuition assistance, but Concordia’s support was by far the most abundant. What I gained from college was the greatest experience of my life. Living away from home and growing my independence in a stable, nurturing environment helped me mature. Studying abroad opened up a new world to me. Participating in Concordia’s Teacher Corps program allowed me to experience serving others in a way that has forever shaped my desire to transform the world. I learned that there is still so much more to learn and do and contribute to the world. I learned that my family’s support was invaluable. And, I learned that the love and support – financial and otherwise – from the Concordia community ensured that I am prepared for the next steps in life.  » Dinisha Gray-Mingo, Class of 2010

P O R T L A N D, O R E G O N • FA L L 2 0 1 0 Campus Life. Concordia University School of Law breaks2 ground in Boise; Accounting students provide tax assistance; University pays tribute to past president E.P. Weber; Students provide elder care in Nicaragua, and more. Music in the Making. The Lutheran Church is often called “the signing church” and music continues to take on new 12 prominence at Concordia with expanded choir and instrumental music ensembles.22 Current Issues. Gary Spanovich, executive director of the Wholistic Peace Institute explains relations between North and South Korea and what the Institute, now housed at Concordia, is doing to promote peace. Alumni Notes. Alumni Ann Donaca-Sullivan 24 spreads compassion, understanding, and inclusion through Bike First!, a camp that encourages young people with physical disabilities to learn bicycling. Also, read about more news and highlights of alumni life after Concordia. FALL 2010 30 Navy & White. Andria Scheese is ‘All That’s RightConcordia Connection is published twice in Sports;' Facundo Dipascuale demonstrates skill in soccer, per year by Concordia University in service, and selflessness; Cavs share top 10 athletic highlights, Portland, Oregon. and more. Please address all correspondence to: 37 Nailed to the Door. Psychology Professor Concordia Connection Concordia University Jane Graves Smith, shares her impression of the 2811 NE Holman Street Portland, Oregon 97211 6th annual Senior Symposium. or email: [email protected] Editor: Madeline Turnock, APR Art Director: Washington Monthly ranks Concordia #1 Christine Dodge for student participation in community service! Read more by visiting: Graphic designer, photographer: www.cu-portland.edu/serviceranking Katrina Dinges © 2010 Washington Monthly EDITORIAL BOARD: www.WashingtonMonthly.com Mark Deuel, Matt English, Ron Miolla, Kelly O’Gara, Glenn Smith,Dr. Michael A. Thomas ’93, Dr. Sonja Vegdahl Fall 2010 1

Campus LifeConcordia Law Breaks Ground in Boise On June 22, Concordia broke resources and talent to Boise’s “We think we’re going to provide aground on the University’s School of downtown core and to the State as a unique metropolitan experience.”Law with the help of more than 200 whole.” With the state capitol, courts, anddignitaries and friends in downtown Boise is one of the four largest government offices within walkingBoise, Idaho. metropolitan areas without an distance, and nearly half the state’s Following a year of construction ABA-approved law school within 100 lawyers in town, Concordia seemsand renovations, the 50,000 square miles. Cathy Silak, a former justice poised to thrive in its new locale.foot complex is anticipated to usher of Idaho’s State Supreme Court, was “Ada County Courthouse is rightin its first class projected to begin in hired to be the school’s dean in 2008. here, obviously the Supreme Courtthe fall of 2011. She said Concordia will be providing is not too far away, and Boise State is “We’re delighted about the a much-needed service. just across the river,” said Dave Bieter,prospect of settling the Concordia “It has been recognized for quite Boise’s mayor. “I really don't thinkUniversity School of Law in some time, this being the state capitol they [Concordia] could've done athe heart of Boise, within close and the largest metropolitan region better job at locating it here.”proximity of the courts, state and in the state, that there needed to Once renovations andlocal governments, and law firms,” be legal education in order to help construction are complete, thesaid Concordia University President people who really cannot leave the school will house a full legal library,Chuck Schlimpert. “With our region to go to law school but also classrooms, study areas, legal clinic,emphasis on community service to bring in some interesting new offices, and other amenities.and engagement, we look forward people, such as faculty and students In line with Concordia’sto contributing a wealth of new from outside the area,” she said. Lutheran tradition, the curriculum »JANUARY 18 FEBRUARY 5 Nike awarded a $5,000 grant In honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., more than 1,200 students to launch Athlete Corps, a new representing 11 local colleges and universities descended on the Concordia service and mentorship program for at-risk students in Portland campus for a celebration rally. Students participated in several service projects around the Portland metro area, the largest day of service in Public Schools. the City's history.2 concordia connection

Campus LifeABOVE: Groundbreaking guests and speakers included Students generated $122,078 in state andExecutive Vice President, Gary Withers; Dean's Advisory Give Tax federal refunds with several familiesCommittee Chair, Richard Fields; Boise Mayor, Dave Bieter; Assistance receiving the Earned IncomeProvost Mark Wahlers; President Chuck Schlimpert. BELOW: Tax Credit, child tax credit, andSchool of Law Dean, Cathy Silak, answers the media’s questions. Using free time to work on tax education credit. returns may not be the first choice for “I am very proud of the will emphasize academic rigor, most people, but this is how several Concordia students for working so community engagement, and ethical Concordia students spent their hard on this project,” said Tucker. decision making to help prepare evenings and weekends during the In addition to Magda, seven other graduates enter the legal profession, 2010 tax season. And they actually students contributed more than 40 as well as a variety of other careers. had fun. volunteer hours each: Dani Clauson, The inaugural class is anticipated Under the leadership of Benedict Liambila, David Picker, to have approximately 95 students. accounting professor Dr. David Corinne Rice, Sean Rivera, Marie For more information, please visit Tucker and in partnership with Selby, and Ryan Sexton. www.concordialaw.com.  CASH Oregon, AARP Tax-Aide, For both the students and the Multnomah County, the City of community members, the project Portland, and the Internal Revenue was much more than forms and Service, the accounting students calculations. Many of the clients put their skills to work by preparing discovered that they were entitled tax returns for local individuals to larger refunds than they would and families. The program not have found on their own—relieving only provided free tax assistance some of the stress from their for Concordia’s neighbors, it personal finances. For the students, also provided valuable hands-on the program provided real-world experience for students. experience and the personal “I think the most surprising satisfaction of helping people. part of the experience was finding “There is nothing more rewarding out that I really enjoy preparing than hands-on experience,” said taxes,” said Tabitha Magda, a junior Magda. “Communicating with people Business Administration major who face-to-face and being accurate and volunteered 60 hours for the project. thorough were extremely important. “I found myself talking about it with By far the best part was seeing friends and family members and the excitement and happiness on being quite enthusiastic about it.” peoples’ faces when we told them In all, the students along with they would receive refunds.” Tucker and his wife, Lori volunteered Magda is even looking forward to more than 500 hours and helped the 2011 tax season, adding “I really prepare 80 returns. As a result, they enjoyed the experience and can hardly wait for next year!”  »FEBRUARY 10 FEBRUARY 18 The Wholistic Peace Institute and its Nobel In partnership with the American Association of School Peace Laureate Program opened its Concordialocation with the signing of cooperative agreements Administrators, Concordia launched a new online program between Concordia and two private universities, for students wishing to earn a customized, district- one in China, the other in North Korea. specific Master’s of Education degree. For more information, visit www.concordiaonline.net. Fall 2010 3

Campus LifeTribute to Past Friend and former colleague, Dr. body. He secured Title III grants toPresident E.P. John Buuck, remembered Weber as a reach out to minority populationsWeber “giant” in the history of the Lutheran and worked hard to bring in church. “(E.P.) presided for 25 years international students. Hundreds of friends, family, and at a time when rival junior colleges Weber also oversaw the colleagues filled St. Michael’s Lutheran were about to go the way of the dramatic expansion of the school’s Church on June 27, a beautiful dinosaur and during a very troubling physical footprint, including a new Sunday afternoon, to celebrate the life time in the Lutheran church,” he said. gymnasium, the Hagen Center and of Rev. Dr. Erhardt Paul “E.P.” Weber, “Yet under his leadership the school new dormitories. Peering out the Concordia's third president. moved forward and thrived.” windows of St. Michael’s, it seemed Weber took office as president in Weber came to Concordia fitting that the new George R. White 1958 and served for 25 years. During following a stint as the first full- Library & Learning Center and the his tenure, he oversaw the school’s time Lutheran chaplain at Purdue future site of Concordia’s new athletic transition to a four-year college and University in West Lafayette, Ind. complex were visible, representing defined its christocentric approach Upon his arrival, he worked to the continued growth and evolution to scholarship. He died Monday, June separate the administration of the of the University under current 21, at the age of 92 at his residence in high school from the college. President Schlimpert. Lake Oswego, Ore. At the memorial service, Rev. Dr. Spalteholz recalled Weber telling Hans Spalteholz recalled the family- him that attending the dedication of style meals that he and Weber shared the new library was “one of the best with the school’s 120 students. He experiences of (his) life” and a sign said it was there – as well as in other that “the spirit of Concordia was alive interactions with faculty and students and well.” – that Weber built the relationships Weber retired from Concordia that would sustain the school. in 1983, at the age of 65, but never “The Concordia family thrived strayed far from the school or the under E.P.” Spalteholz said. “He Lutheran Church. He helped develop modeled it himself and cogently the Lay Assistant Ministry Program articulated a passion for servant of the LCMS Northwest District and leadership in that particular served as its first director. He also canon of faith and work – in our served as a member of the Tualatin Concordia canon.” Valley Board of Directors and never In 1977, Weber oversaw stopped rooting for his beloved Concordia’s transition to a four- Chicago Cubs. year college. Three years later he Dr. Timothy Weber, E.P.’s son, helped hand out the school’s first eloquently summed up what made baccalaureate degrees. his father so special: “He ‘thought’ the In his 25 years as president, faith and he ‘felt’ the heart of God.”  Weber used his administrative skills and his relentless tenacity to expand dramatically the diversity of Concordia’s student »MARCH 3 « MARCH 22 - 26 For the second year in a row, Concordia was recognized A group of Concordia students, on the President’s Higher Education Community Service faculty, and staff traveled to New Orleans during Spring Honor Roll. Each year, the CU community contributes Break to build houses for victims more than 223,000 service hours through practicum, of Hurricane Katrina in partnership with Habitat for Humanity. internships, and service learning projects.4 concordia connection

Concordia University Alumni & Friend s To ur Campus LifeYou’re invitedon the trip of a lifetime…Israel 9-day tour through the Holy LandTel Aviv, Haifa, Galilee, Dead Sea, Masada, Bedouin settlement, and Jerusalem. Departs Thursday, June 23, 2011. Fall 2010 5The tour is led by Concordia University alumnus and Associate Professor of Classics and Religion,Dr. Michael A. Thomas. A completed application and $100 deposit are due by March 30, 2011 tohold travel rates. For more detailed information, email [email protected] orcall 503-280-8505 or 1-800-752-4736 and ask for alumni relations.

make ainLvIeFsEtmCeHnAt NGINGAt Concordia University, we strive to educate the body, mind, Coming Soon...and spirit of our students, in order to prepare Christian leaders for the The Annual Report featuring ourtransformation of society. This past academic year alone, our students Honor Roll of generous donors will bevolunteered over 223,000 hours to help transform the community. available online in early December at www.cu-portland.edu/annualreportIt should come as no surprise that we need your help to continue to makeConcordia a thriving place of opportunity. In light of the current economicsituation, our students need your support now more than ever. One example isConcordia sophomore Meagan Delgado. Like many of our students, Meaganis the first in her family to go to college and finances are tight. One week beforeschool started, she was notified that she didn’t have enough money to attend.But thankfully, because of amazing people like you, we were able to give extrascholarship money to Meagan at the last minute, which allowed her to stay atConcordia.You make the difference! Whether it’s $5 or $500, every dollar counts andyour donation to support the Concordia Fund allows us to provide scholarshipsto deserving students who would not be able to attend otherwise.Call 503-280-8505 today or visit us online at www. cu-portland.edu/giving toensure another student, like Meagan, can receive the life-changing blessing of aneducation at Concordia. www.cu-portland.edu/giving 503-280-8505

Campus LifeCU Students open to,” said Elaine Aarestad, a Portland-based JFR Foundation andServe, Travel senior in Concordia’s BSN program three other Oregon universities.to Nicaragua who retired from the corporate As to why Concordia stepped world to study and become a mission up to help: “Caring for one of the Concordia students provided elder nurse with the hope of serving in world's most vulnerable populationscare in Jinotepe, Nicaragua this past community health settings as both a in the second poorest country in theJune and plan to return annually. The professional and volunteer. Western Hemisphere is a rewardingfive Concordia nursing students, two “The elders I experienced in way to give back, while integratingnursing faculty, one alum, and one Nicaragua had incredible tenacity hands-on service learning intopre-med student made this service and an ability to keep an open heart university curriculum,” said Garytrip May 10–20, 2010. with us, even while suffering through Withers, Executive Vice President Concordia students treated physical and emotional hardships,” at Concordia University and JFRmore than 375 elders in a period said Aarestad. “The people of Foundation Board Member.of three days and trained local Nicaragua are a wonderful, warm, and Following the trip, more thanhealth care professionals at elder loving people, and I would encourage 100 friends, supporters, and donorscare facilities called “hogars.” Elders other students to go and serve.” of Concordia University, Pacificwere treated for ills ranging from The trip was led by Portland social University and Portland Statepersistent wounds to diabetes and entrepreneur and Concordia University University gathered Tuesday, June Foundation Board of Directors 8 at Concordia's George R. White member, Keren Brown Wilson. Library & Learning Center to raise scholarship funds for future student trips to Nicaragua. For more information about Wilson and her nonprofit, or to donate, visit www.jfrfoundation.org. skin infections. Thirteen people were Wilson continues to develop theidentified as having life-threatening concept of “assisted living” as weconditions and received immediate now understand it in the Unitedand successful emergency care. States, and she is now revolutionizing“I was reminded how much elder care internationally.knowledge and wisdom these elders Concordia’s efforts are inhave, which all of us can be more collaboration with Wilson’s« April 19Shakespeare scholars and the Concordia community gathered to dedicate the Richard Paul & Jane RoeShakespeare Authorship Research Centre during the 14th annual Shakespeare Authorship StudiesConference. Richard and Jane Roe of Pasadena, Calif. have long supported the Centre, and are passionateabout its mission of addressing the Shakespeare authorship question. Led by Professor Daniel Wright, theRichard Paul and Jane Roe Shakespeare Authorship Research Centre is located on the third floor of theGeorge R. White Library & Learning Center. The Roe's children are pictured here: BetzFiaRlole 2W0e1in0berg, 7Richard T.W. Roe, Hilary Roe Metternich

Campus LifeNew Library Concordia Gray-Mingo was one of 445& Learning Graduates graduates who made up Concordia’sCenter Earns Largest Class Class of 2010, the largest graduatingLEED Gold in History class in the University’s 105-yearCertification history and twice the number of Grads Double in a Decade students who graduated just a decade Concordia University’s new ago. She was also one of several first-George R. White Library & For Dinisha Gray-Mingo ’10 generation university graduates.Learning Center earned LEED® of Las Vegas, Nev., earning her “Being a first-generation collegeGold certification as established bachelor’s degree was not only graduate is a huge deal for my family,”by U.S. Green Building Council a step toward achieving her goal said Gray-Mingo, who deliveredand verified by the Green Building of becoming a judge, but also the one of the student commencementCertification Institute. realization of a dream shared by her addresses. “It means that I've broken LEED is the nation’s entire family. the cycle of no higher education inpreeminent program for the my family. It means that my siblingsdesign, construction, and have an example to look up to, andoperation of high performancegreen buildings. “At its core, environmentalstewardship is an expression ofcommunity engagement, andConcordia wants to be a goodneighbor by respecting thehealth and well-being of ourcommunity and our employees,”said Krista Reichard, Reference andInstruction Librarian. In addition to being a valuableresource for the Concordia campusand surrounding community, thenew library and learning centerutilizes the latest technologyto make it energy efficient andenvironmentally friendly. The architecture firm on theproject was Group Mackenzie andthe general contractor was UnionCorner Construction.  »April 20 MAY 1 Concordia awarded 445 degrees during spring More than 350 business and civic leaders commencement ceremonies, making the Class of gathered to discuss “Civic Leadership and 2010 the largest ever in the University’s Social Entrepreneurship” at the 16th annual CEO history. See related story on this page. Roundtable luncheon presented by the VTM Group.8 concordia connection

Campus Lifesomeone to help them understand also one of the most geographically 2010 Honoreeshow they feel when they go through diverse, with students from 26 states Demonstratethe same process. That support and and five countries receiving degrees. Service, Civicunderstanding may make their paths The graduates and their families Leadershipjust a little easier and maybe their celebrated their accomplishmentsaspirations even higher.” during commencement ceremonies Concordia awarded honorary The availability of financial aid in four cities: Portland, Bend, degrees to Don Frisbee and Rev. Hans(more than 97 percent of Concordia’s Klamath Falls, and Medford. G.R. Spalteholz. Frisbee, former CEOfreshmen receive financial assistance Equipped with new degrees and their and chairman of PacifiCorp, receivedaveraging $12,000 per student), experience at Concordia, they are an honorary Doctor of Laws degreeand expanded undergraduate and set to become leaders transforming in recognition of his contributionsgraduate programs on the Portland society. both professionally and in thecampus, as well as in Klamath Falls, “Concordia set out to prepare areas of civic leadership and socialMedford, and Bend, have contributed these graduates with rigorous welfare. Rev. Hans G.R. Spalteholz, ato Concordia’s increased enrollment coursework for lives committed to former Concordia professor who wasand graduation rates. service leadership,” said Gray-Mingo. influential in Concordia’s graduating class “And the University has accomplished developing thewas not only the largest, but it was its mission.”  University’s theology and“Concordia set out to prepare these graduates with literaturerigorous coursework for lives committed to service curriculum,leadership... and the University has accomplished was awardedits mission.” an honorary Doctor of Letters degree for dedicated service to his Church and to Concordia, and for his lifetime pursuit of knowledge, wisdom, and academic excellence.  MAY 16 MAY 17Hundreds of people gathered for games and outdoor The Portland–Suzhou Sister City Association presented itsactivities in a celebration of Concordia’s Northeast 2010 Educational Award to CU in recognition of the Schoolneighborhood and healthy communities through the of Management’s China Experience, a new program offered to MBA students and alumni. City of Portland’s Sunday Parkways. The event was sponsored in part by Concordia University, Fall 2010 9

Campus LifeConcordia Smooths Entry for SW WashingtonTransfer Students Concordia Student Nova Sehorn ABOVE: Dr. Mark Wahlers, Blake Bowers, Dr. Mark Jager, Lisa Borho, Dr. Joel Schuldheisz '74, is passionate about physical fitness Tim Overholser '06, Celeste Krueger '03 MBA '08, Scott Besemann, Carrie Duffeyand helping others. When she was OPPOSITE PAGE: Joel Schuldheisz signs the expanded Clark-Concordia transfer agreement.close to completing her associate’sdegree in fitness training from Clark AAS degree at Clark to seamlessly College President Robert K. Knight.College in Vancouver, Wash., she transfer their credits toward a “In June 2006, Clark and Concordiaknew her next step would be getting bachelor’s degree in Exercise & Sports began a co-admission agreement.her bachelor’s degree in Exercise & Science at Concordia. As part of the Four years later, it’s exciting to seeSports Science at Concordia. agreement, Borho, Schuldheisz, and how that partnership continues But when Sehorn faced the administrators from both schools to grow through our mutualchallenge of transferring credits into reviewed course syllabi, objectives, commitment to excellence inConcordia, she looked for help from and outcomes, and determined that education and student success.”her Clark advisor Lisa Borho, chair of the courses completed at Clark meetClark’s Health & Physical Education the requirements of select courses at Health & Wellness TrendsDivision. Concordia. Fuel Program Growth Clark’s Borho found a listening ear “Our students now have ain Concordia’s Dr. Joel Schuldheisz, wonderful opportunity to continue Concordia’s Exercise & Sportschair of the Exercise & Sports Science their education and earn a bachelor’s Science program launched in 2009program. Schuldheisz stepped in degree at Concordia,” said Clark and applies the best of sports andto help smooth the transition for science knowledge.transferring students, along withthe support of his willing colleaguesfrom the College of Health & HumanServices.New agreement benefitstransferring students Schuldheisz and collaboratorsworked tirelessly to developnew arrangements for studentstransferring into Concordia. Theresult is a new agreement that makesthe transfer process from Clark’sfitness training program to CU’sExercise & Sports Science programsmooth and transparent. Signed in June, the agreementallows students who earn their »JUNE 4For the third time in the last four years, CU earned the Cascade Collegiate Conference All-SportsTrophy. During 2009-2010, Concordia won or shared regular season CCC titles in women’s soccer,men’s and women’s golf, softball, men’s and women’s track, and posted runner-up finishes in men’ssoccer and women’s cross country. In addition, seven Concordia teams advanced to NAIA postseason play,with top-15 national finishes posted by women’s soccer, women’s golf, men’s and women’s track, and10 concordia connection women’s and men’s cross country.

Campus Life Since its inception, the program education, and coaching, among principles of exercise testing andhas more than doubled. Schuldheisz others. These graduates are also assess the core components of fitness.knows that the program has struck likely to pursue advanced degrees in “I chose the Exercise & Sportsa chord with young people who athletic training, exercise physiology, Science program for the fact that ourwant to be part of the movement and kinesiology. nation’s health issues are getting outtoward increased community health, of control,” said Sehorn. “I believewellness, and disease prevention. New Human Performance healthy habits are learned early in “Students are looking for Lab Opens life. I want to use this degree tomeaningful careers in fields that teach children that exercise does notpromote physical health and improve Concordia recently opened a new have to be a chore, but a fun way toquality of life for individuals and Human Performance Lab in the connect socially with other childrencommunities,” added Schuldheisz. George R. White Library & Learning in their community.” Prevention is now a well- Center. The Lab features the latest This fall, Concordia is welcomingrecognized consumer trend, and is testing and measurement equipment, Sehorn and several of her fellow Clarknow a major focus in the national including a Quinton Treadmill College graduates who will continuedebate on health care; large U.S. and EKG computer testing system pursuing their passion in the field ofcompanies continue to take up health donated by Nike. The treadmill and exercise and sports science. and wellness programs in an effort to computer, combined with a new metabolic cart, will give studentsreduce health care costs that continue the opportunity to researchto grow; and, Americans recently oxygen consumption andranked prevention as the most circulatory responses.important health care reform priority Other equipment, alongunder consideration in congressional with anatomical charts, fullproposals. body models, skeletons, and Students graduate from the other teaching tools, willprogram to pursue careers in help students understand thepersonal training, physical »june 14 june 22CU supporters hit the greens for the 9th annual Concordia broke ground on the new Concordia University Fore The Students Golf Tournament presented by Group Mackenzie and benefiting scholar- School of Law in Boise. The property, which was purchased ships for student athletes. The winning foursome included Jeff Gustafson, Bob in May, is located at 501 Front Street in downtown Boise.Brewer, Aaron Maunu, and Chris Helmes. The law school is expected to open in 2011. Read the full story on page 2. Fall 2010 11

Feature Story Music inMthaeking

Feature StoryC ircled in prayer with arms crossed and hands held, Concordia University’smusic students prepare to greet an eager, hushed audience. In addition to delighting audiences regularly at St. Michael’s Lutheran Church,adjacent to campus, music students travel across the country during their annualspring tour and across the seas on international tours every four years. “Your music was the essence of God,” commented one priest outside a churchin Venice following one such Concordia performance. It is that appreciation that keeps the students in the ensembles coming backand Concordia’s music program growing. Music—both voice and instrumental—has always played an important roleat Concordia, and now even more so with a bachelor’s degree in music. Therecently established bachelor’s degree is just the latest development in the school’sblossoming music program.Fall 2010 13

Feature StoryConcordia’s music program crescendos When Kurt Berentsen assumed leadership of Other program growth along the way included re-Concordia’s music program in 1999 it consisted of a creating the Christi Crux Vocal Ensemble, based on ansmall handbell ensemble and a choir of twelve. Since earlier tradition established by former Professor Dale Fiskthen, a new music major was added, the music faculty and the 2001 creation of a five-member brass ensemble.expanded, the Concert Choir multiplied to its current 70 Additionally, the handbell ensemble has grown to morestudents, Christi Crux Vocal Ensemble was reinstated and than a dozen students under the direction of Professorexpanded to 50 students, and a new brass ensemble, string Judy Schumacher.ensemble, praise ensemble, and wind ensemble were Perhaps most impressively, Concordia students’formed. musical repertoire has expanded in scope and level of In another boost to the program, Dr. William Kuhn difficulty during the past decade. Students are performingwas hired as a new full-time music professor in 2007. works by 16th century Italian composer Giovanni “So much is happening with the arts in Portland,” Pierluigi da Palestrina, considered among the greatestcommented Kuhn on what brought him to the Northwest composers of liturgical music of all time, as well as worksand to Concordia. “We are able to draw from an by the likes of the contemporary 20th century Americanincredible pool of top local teaching talent.” composer Eric Whitacre, best known for his challenging With the support of the University’s administration choral and wind ensemble compositions.and Friends of Music donors, instruments and equipment For this increase in performance quality, Kuhn creditswere purchased and Kuhn launched a wind ensemble, multiple learning methodologies. For example, on a new,drawing upon his experience instructing and directing the challenging piece of music, students sing the music, playacclaimed wind ensemble at Concordia Nebraska where it, then tape themselves and listen to the recording.he taught for 15 years. Now, going into its third year, To top off all this growth, the University approved athe wind ensemble has more than 35 members playing Bachelor of Arts degree in music in 2008. The programprogressively more difficult musical compositions. emphasizes music education, church ministry, and graduate school preparation. Year: Junior Zeke Fetrow Major: Music Performance Education Hometown: Portland, Ore. Music ensemble participation: Sings Baritone in the Concert Choir, Christi Crux Vocal Ensemble and is the bass section leader / Handbell Ensemble / Member of Battery Percussion in the Wind Ensemble Current favorites on my playlist: Ave Maria by Chanticleer / Lux Arumque by Eric Whitacre Age when I first got involved in music: End of my junior year of high school, I was 17. What inspires me musically: I want to be part of something much greater than myself, and I’ve found that in music. I want to write songs that change lives and give performances that wow the audience—giving people a musical experience unlike any they’ve had before.14 concordia connection

Students evolve as music aficionados, global Feature Storycitizens Year in School: Senior “We want each and every student to realize theirfull talents and abilities during their four years here – Major: Englishmusically and otherwise,” described Berentsen. His loveof music began to take shape at age five and eventually Hometown: Fairview, Ore.landed him opportunities to perform in venues suchas New York’s Carnegie Hall, Kennedy Center, Lincoln Music ensemble participation: SingsCenter, and the Metropolitan Opera House. Soprano II in the Christi Crux Vocal Ensemble “I take the approach of being a musical cheerleader and the Concordia Choir / Handbellof sorts for our ensembles, encouraging them to create Ensemblemusic as a spiritual experience, not just an intellectualone,” he said. Current favorites on my playlist: All Around Me by David Crowder Band / Forgiven by Skillet / Again by Flyleaf What inspires me musically: I am inspired by our director, Kurt Berentsen. He has such a love for music, and his passion transfers to his students. Known for his “Kurt-isms,” Berentsen can often be performers, directors of Christian education, and pastors,heard at rehearsals telling students “I can’t sing you!” in addition to excelling in a variety of other careerStudents quickly understand this to mean that they must pursuits.make their own individual commitment to the song, Sarah Shewbert graduated from Concordia in 2001to the group, to their classmates, even to matching a with a degree in English and theater arts, before the musicparticular vowel or to bringing more energy to the tone. major was established, and she is pleased the University These musically-inclined Concordia graduates go on to now offers an academic option for music as a major. Shevarious pursuits, including professions as music teachers, went on to complete a bachelor’s in music from Portland State, a master’s in music from University of Portland and is currently pursuing her doctorate in music history at University of Washington with the hope of being a university music professor. “During my years at Concordia, my understanding of music evolved from thinking about music as a hobby to thinking about it as a profession and academic pursuit,” said Sarah. “It was at Concordia that I learned about letting music ‘speak’.” She credits much of her musicality, musical expression, and interpretation to her more than six years accompanying Concordia’s musical ensembles with Berentsen.To support these students and the entire music program, you can become a Friend of Music. Fall 2010 15Visit www.cu-portland.edu/giving for more information.

Feature Story Support bolsters music program growth The rapid growth of Concordia’s music offerings wouldn’t be possible without the Friends of Music. The group now consists of more than 1,800 donors who have helped grow the program with gifts ranging from $1 to $15,000. In fact, during the past few years, there has been a steady increase in giving to Friends of Music, with giving up more than 190% since 2006. One such Concordia music advocate is long-time Portlander, Mary Ausplund Tooze, whose connection to music was fostered by piano lessons beginning at age seven. “What inspires me is extraordinary teachers who can tap students’ talents,” Ausplund Tooze said. She is impressed by what she’s seen from Berentsen and the student musicians in Concordia’s program. “Music is such an important part of a well-rounded education,” Ausplund Tooze urged. Not only does Ausplund Tooze continue to hold monthly gatherings of her repertory group to continue piano practicing and performing, but she has brought performances such as Portland SummerFest’s popular Opera in the Park Series to Concordia’s campus this past August (photo at right). “Any truly successful liberal arts college needs music,” Berentsen said. “Creative thinking is critical to all students’ success. Creativity is a learning process no different than any other academic pursuit.” He also noted that other important life-long benefits of students’ musical pursuits include discipline, patience, responsibility, and compassion. Concordia ensembles perform across the region, regularly visiting locations across Oregon, Washington, California, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, and Utah. This school year will feature a tour by the choirs to Austria, the Czeck Republic, Germany, and Poland. All tours are financially supported by the University, Friends of Music donors, and host congregations, but a majority of the costs are paid by students themselves. No matter one’s musical interest and talents, Ausplund Tooze reminds us that “Everyone has a God-given gift, and you should use it. Part of living is music, so get at it: practice your art.”16 concordia connection

Feature StoryFall 2010 17

Feature StoryYuliya KarpukYear in School: Junior Emmanuel HendreidMajor: Biology, Pre-Medicine Year in School: JuniorHometown: Tacoma, Wash. Major: Music PerformanceMusic ensemble participation: Plays piano Hometown: Portland, Ore.for the Praise Ensemble / Sings Alto II for theConcordia University Choir / Plays clarinet for the Music ensemble participation: SingsWind Ensemble Tenor II in the Christi Crux Vocal Ensemble and the Concordia ChoirCurrent favorites on my playlist: Fromthe Inside Out and Hosanna by Hillsong United / Current favorites on my playlist:I’m Ready Now by Desperation Band / Happy End Stevie Wonder / Jazmine Sullivan /(Russian group) Kim BurrellAge when I first got involved in music: Age when I first started singing: SevenI started playing the piano at age eight, andsinging at age 12. What inspires me musically: To know that we have the ability to touch and changeMy hope or dream for the future: My people’s lives and glorify God through music isdream is to go back to Ukraine and open a fulfilling.Christian music academy in an orphanage. I alsohope to finish writing a worship music album I’vebeen working on, and eventually record it.

Feature Storybj swearer Year in School: Senior sHANNON aGNE Major: History Hometown: Hilton Head, S.C. Year in School: Junior Music ensemble participation: Plays trumpet in the Brass and Wind Ensembles Major: Nursing Current favorites on my playlist: Anything John Williams / Any Canadian brass music / Bohemian Hometown: Sitka, Alaska Rhapsody Age when I first got involved in music: 4th Music ensemble participation: Plays first grade band chair flute for the Wind Ensemble What inspires me musically: If I can provide an enjoyable and meaningful musical experience for the Current favorites on my playlist: audience then that’s what inspires me. Irlandaise by Claude Bolling (Suite for Flute and Jazz Piano Trio) / Insomnia by Craig David /Katie Ledington Everytime We Touch by CascadaYear in School: Junior Age when I first got involved in music: 10Major: Music EducationHometown: Caldwell, Idaho What inspires me musically: Music isMusic ensemble participation: Sings Soprano in another way to express what I feel or have to say.the Christi Crux Vocal Ensemble and the Concordia Choir There are challenging pieces out there, and to be/ Plays violin in the String Quartet / Percussionist in the able to master and perform them reminds meWind Ensemble / Choir Director’s Assistant that I have so many still to learn.Current favorites on my playlist: Gabriel Fauré /Tegan and Sara / A.C. NewmanWhat I like best about CU’s music program:I like the flexibility and availability of the professors.Concordia has a nourishing quality with an emphasis onpersonal relationships that other universities don’t have.

Feature StoryMartin Luther and Music T he Lutheran Church has often been called “the singing church.” Lutheran worship has been enriched over the centuries with a priceless collection of liturgies, choral works, and hymns through which people’s faith is expressed wonderfully and powerfully. This love of music and singing can be traced directly to Martin Luther’s own deep love for music. Luther wrote: “Next to the Word of God, the noble art of music is the greatest treasure in the world! The riches of music are so excellent and so precious that words fail me whenever I attempt to discuss and describe them.”1 This treasuring of music led Luther to compose some 36 hymns – hymns like “A Mighty Fortress is Our God” and “From Heaven Above to Earth I Come.” For Luther, music was a wondrous gift of God’s creation. He affirmed the power of music to move emotions. Luther wrote: “Whether you wish to comfort the sad, to terrify the happy, to encourage the despairing, to humble the proud, to calm the passionate, or to appease those full of hate — and who could number all these masters of the human heart, namely, the emotions, inclinations, and affections that impel men to evil or good?—what more effective means than music could you find?”3 Music also had profound theological implications for Luther. From Luther’s perspective, music is a powerful tool in the hands of the Holy Spirit and the greatest use of music is to carry the Gospel message. He wrote: “Music and theology alone are capable of giving peace and happiness to troubled souls. This plainly proves that the devil, the source of all unhappiness and worries, flees music as much as he does theology.”2 Music was a critical way to bring worship to life for the “priesthood of all believers.” Writing hymns and liturgies in German allowed worshippers to praise God, not in a foreign language (Latin) but in the language of their heart. Liturgies and hymns in their own language meant that worshippers could participate more fully in worship – and even more importantly, could have direct access to God in their prayer and praise. Luther also saw music as a powerful educational tool. For Luther, there was no better way for to memorize Scripture or to teach the Gospel to children and adults than through sacred verse set to music. Without a doubt, the legacy of Luther’s love of music and his own work in musical composition have inspired countless others to follow in his footsteps, to cherish the gift of music and to develop their musical gifts. This legacy has certainly been a rich part of Concordia University’s history from the very beginning; and it is certainly a rich part of our present life together, as evidenced by the quality of our faculty and students involved in the wondrous gift of music here on our campus!  Contributed by Rev. Jim Pressnell, Director of Church Relations Endnotes 1 Foreword to Georg Rhau’s Collection, Symphoniae iucundae. Quoted in Walter E. Buszin’s essay, entitled “Luther on Music,”published in the January 1946 issue of the Musical Quarterly, G. Schirmer publisher. 2 St.L., XXIa, 1574. Quoted in Walter E. Buszin’s essay, entitled “Luther on Music,”published in the January 1946 issue of the Musical Quarterly, G. Schirmer publisher. 3 Martin Luther, “Preface to Georg Rhau’s Symphoniae Iucundae” in Vol. 53: Luther’s works, vol. 53 : Liturgy and Hymns, J. J. Pelikan, H. C. Oswald & H. T. Lehmann, Ed. (Fortress Press: Philadelphia, 1999, c.1965), 323.20 concordia connection

For more than 100 years, teacher education has been the cornerstone of Concordia University's academic programs and central to our Christian mission of preparing leaders for the transformation of society. Now, you can get a master of education completely online through ConcordiaOnline.netTake the next step and learn more atwww.concordiaonline.net/connection Master of Education Degrees available in Educational Leadership or Curriculum & Instruction (with specialties in Reading, Math, Science, Special Ed, Methods & Curriculum and ESOL) Congratulations to this fall’s first ConcordiaOnline graduating class!

Current Issuespromote peaceConcordia hosts conference toby Gary Spanovich Lee Hee-ho, the wife of former South Korea president and Nobel Peace Laureate, Kim Dae Jung and the chief of the Kim Dae Jung Peace Center in Seoul and former Unification Minister of South Korea, Jeong Se-hyun. The conference couldn’t be timelier. A ten-year period of relative peace came to an end two years ago with the inauguration of President Lee Myung- Bak, who promised a “get tough on North Korea” approach. The March sinking of a South Korean ship hasABOVE (l to r): Kathy Larson, Larson Legacy & WPI member; Victoria Clevenger, WPI member; James Kim; Prince Darlington, WPI member. The Wholistic Peace Institute offices moved onto Concordia's Portland campus in Spring 2010. Ever since military actions ended On the official United Nations brought the two countries closer toin the Korean War in 1953, tensions Day of Peace, September 21, the war than any time in recent history,between North and South Korea have University is hosting the Wholistic even though North Korea denies anysimmered. While the rest of the world Peace Institute’s Sixth Annual involvement.has moved on from the Cold War, Summer Peace Institute, focusingthe two nations remain technically this year on “New Solutions to De-“at war,” divided only by a 2.5 mile escalate the Tension on the Koreandemilitarized zone and a truce. Peninsula.” This September, some of the best Korean, Asian, and Peace scholarsand brightest minds will convene at from around the world will offerConcordia University to try to thaw papers and presentations on theout the frosty relations between the topic. The event will be highlightedtwo nations. by keynote speeches from Madame22 concordia connection

Current Issues Concordia’s commitment to Conference at Yanbian University in and discuss the Nobel Peace Laureateprepare leaders to transform society Yanji, China, inviting both Chinese, ideas for resolving the Koreandoesn’t stop with its neighbors in North Korean, and South Korean Conflict and exchanging ambassadorsNortheast Portland, but extends to officials to listen to, participate in with a formal peace treaty. all communities where it can have apositive impact and promote peace. PEACE WEEK SCHEDULE OF EVENTS | Sept. 17 – Sept. 24 The Wholistic Peace Institute, nowbased at Concordia University, was Sept. 21 Summer Peace Institute. Concordia University’s Hagen Center 2ndfounded to tackle just such difficult Floor, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. with registration at 8 a.m. Free to full-timeissues. The Institute’s mission isto build a world peace movement students and Peace Institute members, $75 for the public.by bringing together Nobel PeaceLaureates, scholars, and dignitaries Sept. 22 World Peace Dinner. Downtown Hilton Hotel, 6 p.m. This event is aand applying new methods of holistic fundraiser for Wholistic Peace Institute’s global efforts. Tickets aremediation, conflict resolution, anddialogue. $100. The Institute’s SummerConference is an opportunity to Sept. 23 Student Peace Summit. Concordia University Gymnasium. 9 a.m.– 2discuss and promote peaceful p.m., with registration at 8 a.m. Free for middle and high schoolsolutions. The best ideas willbe compiled into a booklet for students and teachers. $25 for public.immediate publication andcirculation. Representatives will then REGISTRATIONspend the next year discussing theideas with the South Korean and For more information, or to register for Peace Week events, please e-mail GaryNorth Korean ambassadors to the Spanovich at [email protected] Nations in New York. TheInstitute will also spend the yearin Seoul, South Korea, talking togovernment officials, as well as inPyongyang, North Korea, talking togovernment officials and colleaguesat Pyongyang University. Finally, the Institute will convenea large Nobel Peace Laureate PICTURED AT RIGHT: Concordia University President, Chuck Schlimpert, pours tea for James Kim, president of YanbianUniversity Science & Technology in Yanbian, China and Pyongyang University Science & Technology in Pyongyang, North Korea .For more information about the Wholistic Peace Institute, visit www.wholisticpeaceinstitute.com. Fall 2010 23

Alumni NotesAluNmonteis 1996What’s new in your life? Jill Runyan MBA ’05 is now a territory recruiter for Colonial Life & AccidentStay in touch and keep us posted on all of your news. Insurance Company for SW Washington,New baby, new job, new spouse, new house, great Oregon and Idaho. As a territoryvacation, milestone anniversaries, recent retirement... recruiter, Runyan is responsible forsend us an e-mail and give us the update on what’s recruiting district managers, assistanthappening in your life. Feel free to include photos, district managers, and account executives.especially high-resolution (300 dpi) wedding and baby 1997pictures: Keylah Boyer Frazier,EMAIL: [email protected] PhD Candidate, was recently electedOr send mail to Alumni Notes, 2811 NE Holman Street , Portland, OR 97211 President of the Oregon Alliance501959 ’s 901994 ’s of Black SchoolCarolyn (Wilk) Steuer retired from Bobbi Day is working for the NARA Educators (OABSE), www.oabse-portland.org.teaching in December 2009. She now in Portland as an addictions counselor. Lisa Mallory MAT is in her third yearhas more time to read, be involved with She also recently celebrated the birthday teaching fifth grade in Dhahran, Saudi Arabia for ARAMCO, the world's largest60’schurch, work, and travel. She currently of her one year-old granddaughter. She oil company. She lives in a community of lives in Hawaii. says, “my life is filled with joy and happy 14,000 expatriates. It is a ten square mile 1960 moments.” oasis and has it all, except culture. “If IGary Gable JC and his wife, Kathy want to go to a restaurant or see a play, I 1995 need to go to Bahrain which is 45 minutes across the Arabian Gulf. Bahrain is partcelebrated their 45th wedding Dia (Edinger) of the U.A.E. and an ex-British colony,anniversary with good friends, Marty Nickelson so it is very modern and diverse and has all the comforts ofDuchow ’61 and his wife, Carol and her western living,” Mallory says.by traveling to Germany to see the husband, BrianPassion Play. Marty and Carol were welcomedalso celebrating their 45th anniversary. their firstFollowing the tour, they all traveled to child, RylanFlorence, Italy for five days. Then they Jamesreturned to Germany for sightseeing Nickelson, on80’sand visits with relatives in Gemund April 15, 2010. before returning home. Dia writes, 1986 “He is such a blessing from the Lord; he’s a very content, happy baby. God is sooooo good! With all the kicking heCheryl Anglin writes, “After retiring from did while still in the womb, I’m sure he’steaching years ago, I now enjoy a second going to be a wonderful addition to thecareer working as the office manager of a Concordia soccer team!”veterinary hospital here in Los Angeles.”24 concordia connection

Alumni Notes 1998 Greetings from the New Director Koty Zelinka of Alumni & married Jason Parent Relations Cole in an outdoor 2006 Dear Concordia Alumni, ceremony at her parent’s Michelle Fusco recently began It is my pleasure to join this team working for Prestige Care, Inc. and to be part of the continued cabin in Elsie, as a Medical Records Manager in success here at Concordia University. Ore. on July I recently moved to Portland from 3, 2010. Koty Porthaven Care Center. New York City, where I worked in is in her eleventh year teaching the Alumni Relations Department at English at Portland Lutheran High School Tim Krajcar MBA has Columbia Law School. Since moving and is a partner instructor in the College been working for The New to the Pacific Northwest, I’ve been Group, a digital marketing continually impressed with the00’sof Education at CU. agency, as the Director of kindness, strength, and commitment 2000 Technology. He also spent time of the people associated with teaching an e-business course Concordia. A key component of that Gustavo Agiuar has been my interaction with you. I recently celebrated in Concordia’s am excited to build a team that serves the birth of his BS Business your needs, and we’ll be looking to second child. Rafael program and you to shape our focus in the months Aguiar was born in continues to find and years to come. I am excited to March of 2009 and ways to plug meet more of you in the near future, has already taken a into Concordia’s and hope to see you all at Concordia’s liking to big sister, programs. next reunion. Raquel. Julie Ann Brooke Krystosek 2002 Mijangos- Director of Alumni & Parent Relations Guzzardo MED, married Dr. Jose Alexandria Mijangos Reyes in June 2008 and I always want to hear from you! (Flintjer) are expecting their first child in July Whitehead of 2010. They are currently living in Please contact me by calling 503-493-6454 and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and or emailing [email protected]. husband, Glenn working at the Prince Mohammed bin Whitehead Fahd University. ’00 recently welcomed their third child, Christopher Lilly, born November 9, 2009. Alexandria Paulk married writes, “Along with Gavin (7) and Keira Calandra Jackson (5), Lilly completes our family!” in a small ceremony in 2005 Virginia Beach, Va. Chris is currently Matt Hamlin MAT was recently working as a hired at Walla Walla High defense contractor School to coach football and and Calandra teach math. According to teaches French and Hamlin, “This is my dream job. English as a Second I love coaching football and am Language (ESL) to elementary and excited to come home.” middle school children. Theresa Todd recently graduated from Officer Candidate School and is now a Commissioned Officer in the United States Navy. Theresa is a new officer aboard the USS GONZALEZ stationed in Norfolk, Va. Winter 2010 25

CONCORDIA UNIVERSITY PORTLAND Mark your calendars now! Reunion Weekend { October 22-24, 2010 } You’re invited back to campus for a special weekend created for alumni and friends. Reconnect with your classmates, faculty and staff and enjoy the festivities. Visit www.cu-portland.edu/reunion2010 for more information and register today. www.cu-portland.edu/reunion2010 Want to be involved? Serve on your Reunion Committee! If you would like to participate, please contact us at 503.493.6454 or [email protected]

Alumni NotesAlexander Platanias married Jennifer Wetter and husband, Joshua CaitlinHeather Hensley on July 10, 2010 welcomed their first child, Abigail Naomi (Verhofstadt)in Oregon wine country. Wetter, born June 17, 2009. Sullivan and her husband, Casey2007 2009 recently gave birth to theirMolly (Huston) Lopez had an eventful Caitlin Deschner first baby, Taylor2008, getting married and giving birth has been working Jean Sullivan, onto a daughter. She says, “I have been for Norwegian June 12, 2010.teaching middle school PE for three years Cruise Lines as a Taylor weighed 6lbs, 14oz and was 19.5now in the Vancouver School District.” Youth Counselor. inches long. Caitlin says, “it has been a She is coordinating whirlwind for the past month getting2008 the activities for used to all the adjustments, but we have youth and families. She is also assisting never been so happy. AndFrancesca Jackson has begun her Nickelodeon at Sea by acting as one of the we never thought we couldMaster’s in Counseling Psychology at characters during productions. love a little person so much!”Walden University. Caitlin will continue to teach PE next year and just receivedMarc Thomas married Lacey Yarbrough her certification to teachon September 8, 2009 and moved to an exercise workout calledOregon City. Crossfit for Kids at the school. In Memoriam Janice Bickel ’81 passed away in December. Janice is survived by husband, Keith Atkinson ’80.September 20–24 October 29–30 December 1 Christmas Tree LightingPeace Week, with Friday Peace Preview Weekend for high schoolSummit seniors December 3–5 Christmas ChoraleOctober 16 October 31/HalloweenConcordia-Puma Cross Country Classic December 12Fernhill Park, Portland, Ore. Residence halls open to public for Christmas Carol Sing-Along trick-or-treating Pioneer Courthouse Square, Portland, Ore.October 22–24 November 5 January 29Reunion Weekend, with special Wind Ensemble Fall Concert Lutheran Night at Cav Basketball Gamesgatherings for the classes of ’60,’90, and ‘00; Alumni Basketball November 6 February 17–19Games, and retrospective of Small Ensembles Fall Concert Lutheran Elementary School TournamentConcordia's music and choir. November 7 March 12October 23 Fall Instrumental Ensemble Concert Preview Weekend for high school juniorsMartin Luther Bronze SculptureDedication & Concordia Music November 20Ensembles Concert NAIA Cross Country National Championships, Fort Vancouver, Vancouver, Wash.Stay in the loop and get details on above events & more at www.cu-portland.edu/alumni Fall 2010 27

Alumni Notes “I called the national “Concordia’s mission statement is organization to see if they would right in line with Bike First!,” Donaca- come do a camp out here (in Sullivan said. “All the things CU does Portland),” Donaca-Sullivan says. to help the community, draw them in “They sent out bikes, the floor and serve the neighborhood are exactly supervisor, and the mechanics.” what we are trying to promote with Bike There were 32 kids that first First!. We hope that these camps will help camp week, including Donaca- spread compassion, understanding, and Sullivan’s son, who finally figured inclusion throughout society, and that is out how to ride during the camp. where Concordia already excels.” Now, the annual camp serves more Donaca-Sullivan’s vision for the than 90 youth throughout the year. program is to continue to work with Donaca-Sullivan struggles to put Concordia and further expand its into words her reaction to seeing involvement by working with other Cody master the bike. universities. She would like to see the “Absolute tears,” she said. program work with veterans suffering “Just…tears.” from brain trauma or post traumatic stress disorder in order to giveAlumni Gives Youth with Disabilities them the freedom and joy of riding a bicycle. For motivation, Donaca-Confidence Through Bicycling Sullivan needs only to look at Cody,Mornings in June are typically a quiet who is about to enter his freshman time in Concordia’s Gymnasium Certainly many more tears were shed in year at Grant High School. Cody has more the following four years, as more and more than mastered the bicycle and will bebut not this past June. A cadre of people learned to ride bikes. The success riding his bike to school each morning.volunteers and dozens of young people rate of the camp is astonishing. After “The freedom and independence thatwith physical disabilities enlivened just one week of camp, 80 percent of the riding a bike has given him is incredible,”campus for Bike Week. participants are able to ride unassisted. Sullivan said. “It feels to him as if the In its fifth year, Bike Week is organized whole world has been opened up. It is soby Concordia 2005 alumni and College fun to see.” of Education adjunct professor, Ann Donaca-Sullivan, clinic director for Bike “We hope that these camps will First!, the Portland, Ore. affiliate of Lose the Training Wheels™. When Donaca-Sullivan’s cadre of volunteers arrived at help spread compassion, understandingConcordia, the gym became a hive ofactivity. The camp allows children to blossom and inclusion...” » Ann Donaca-Sullivan '05 and beam with pride over their new-found Four years later, Donaca-Sullivanskills while volunteers cheer and parents continues to be involved with Lose thetear-up as the youngsters bicycle, alone, Training Wheels. She created Bike First!,often for the very first time. the Portland division of Lose the Training Children with a variety of disabilities Wheels, which recently finished its fifthhave had success at the camps—some of summer of the Concordia-hosted camp.their conditions include Down syndrome, Donaca-Sullivan organized all themild to moderate autism, mild cerebral volunteers necessary to support the riderspalsy, visual impairments, and other during the week and also raised the fundsdevelopmental delays. to market the camps. This year she scored Back in 2006, Donaca-Sullivan’s a major coup when former Portland10-year old son, Cody, struggled with Trailblazer Martell Webster spent the daylearning to ride his bike. Living with working with the campers and posing forDown syndrome was difficult for Cody, pictures.who wanted desperately to learn to “This year we had over 80 volunteersride a bike. Donaca-Sullivan discovered who were here all day, every day,” Donaca-the national Lose the Training Wheels Sullivan said. “It’s phenomenal the wayorganization and felt it would be a perfect the volunteers have been willing to givefit to teach Cody to learn to ride. back to the community and help people.” To view news coverage of this event, visit www.cu-portland.edu/bikefirst28 concordia connection

Shirley’s passion is helping students turn their dreams into reality.Shirley Vradenburgh ’64 understands the value of a quality education. She has spent more than 40 years working withhigh school students and realizes that finances are frequently the deciding factor for choosing a dream school. AttendingConcordia Teachers College, her top choice, was a life-changing experience that occurred simply because of thescholarships she received. Her dream of becoming a Lutheran educator was made possible because of the generousforesight and faithful support of alumni and friends. Shirley wants to return the favor to future generations of Concordiastudents. She is committed to making an annual scholarship gift and has also included a bequest in her will to providefuture students the opportunity to pursue their calling.What is your passion? Take the opportunity to create your own legacy of giving and inspire others.If you want to help a student realize their dream of attending Concordia University,consider including a bequest in your will, like Shirley. For more information, visit ourwebsite at www.cu-portland.edu/bequests or contact Erinn DeGroot at 1-800-752-4736.

Navy & White Concordia’s Scheese is All That’s Right in Sports W hen Andria Scheese approached her 30th birthday a little over three years ago, she, like many, went through mid-life evaluations. Scheese, a mother of three, had advanced at Kaiser Permanente as far as she could without having a college degree and decided it was time for a change. “I needed something more,” she said. “I didn’t feel challenged enough.” That desire to challenge herself, coupled with her sister’s suggestion that she revisit her high school passion for running, started her on a path that would eventually bring her to Concordia University. Now, more than three years later, Scheese, is poised not only to graduate with the degree she sought, but also as one of the school’s greatest cross country and distance runners. She is a three-time NAIA All-American and received the NAIA’s “All That’s Right in Sports” award this year. Not bad for someone who had not run competitively for ten years and was competing against athletes a decade younger. Concordia coach Randy Dalzell watched as Scheese developed into an All-American during her two years at Clackamas Community College. He recruited her, knowing that there was still room for improvement. “When coach would say I want you to go run a six- minute mile it seems easy to say at half a mile ‘you’ll be at three minutes,’ but I didn’t have that ability to break it down, especially while I was running,” she said. “I was like, ‘Uh, what am I supposed to do?’…I didn’t get it.” When she started at Concordia, Dalzell would give her one thing to work on prior to each race, and then he’d sit back and marvel at how quickly she picked it up. “After she learned that one thing, I would never have to go back and teach that thing again,” he said. Athletic Accomplishments & Awards NAIA All-American All-Cascade Collegiate Conference 2010 Indoor mile 2010 Indoor Distance Medley Relay 2009 800 meters 2009 Outdoor 1,500 meters 2009 1,500 meters 2008 Cross Country30 concordia connection

Navy & White In a sport where your performance details of recovery because here’s a Scheese is currently working heris tied to your commitment to training, person who shouldn’t be as good way back from a break in her left foot,perhaps more than any other sport, as she is just with her ability, much the second she’s endured in the lastScheese has inspired all those around less her schedule,’” Dalzell said. “She three years. After watching the crossher with her ability to juggle her models exactly the kind of things (her country team from the sidelines whiledemanding personal, professional, teammates) need to do and then is an redshirting last season, she is eagerand academic lives. inspiration to them to do it.” to get back and optimistic about the team’s chances.“Those younger kids watch her level of “Our goal in the fall for crossdedication...She models exactly the kind country is to win the nationalof things (her teammates) need to do...” championship, and I don’t think we’re far from that,” she said. » Randy Dalzell, Head Coach Scheese will then look to improve on her indoor records in the winter In addition to raising her three “She is like Wonder Woman,” before graduating with her degree inkids (5, 8, and 14), Scheese is almost teammate Jenna Olson told The business. She is already planning toalways a phone call away from her Oregonian in their recent feature get her MBA from Concordia.work as an account manager for story on Scheese. While her initial motivation to goMedical Staffing Network. Still, she Scheese said the most challenging back to school stemmed from a desirealways finds time to get her runs in, part of juggling all three commitments to advance in the workplace, she’seven if she isn’t always able to practice is that she doesn’t get to spend as much now considering a career in coaching.with the team and occasionally has to time with her kids as she would like. “When I started back, I wantedtake a call during a run. “We talk about how school is going to feel that love again for running in “Those younger kids watch her to ensure that we’ll have a better life addition to getting my degree,” shelevel of dedication and then go, ‘Oh, because I’ll have a better job, and the said. “In the beginning (the degree)maybe I should be doing morning running is paying for school, so it all was number one, but I think runningand afternoon workouts, maybe I goes hand in hand,” she said. “They ended up number one in my heart.” should be making sure I do all the really understand that aspect.” To read more about Andria Scheese, please visit: www.cu-portland.edu/andriaJoin the Team! 5 0 3 - 2 8 0 - 8 5 0 5 | WWW. G OC U G O . CO MSupport Concordia Athletics Year RoundAt Concordia, we believe in shaping leaders who willtransform the world around them. By becominga Cavalier Club member, you providescholarships, equipment, and programsupport to make student-athletes'dreams come true. Join the team today, or gift a membership to someone special, at www.gocugo.com or by calling 503-280-8505. Go Cavs Go! Fall 2010 31

Navy & WhiteCavalier Top 10 for 2009-2010 No. 10 – For the second No. 5 – The Cavaliers softball straight year, the Concordia baseball team, after being unranked to start team earned its first win of the the season, climbed to as high as a year against Lewis-Clark State as No. 4 ranking in the NAIA Coaches’ the Cavaliers defeated the 16-time Poll, after ending the year with a 21-3 national champions 7-6 on February conference record before earning 13 at Harris Field in Lewiston, Idaho. a berth into the NAIA National Championships. No. 9 – Senior Alex Tiefenthaler erupted for 42 points in a 108-92 win over Corban on February 5. Tiefenthaler sank 16 of 22 field goal attempts (including all four of his attempts from beyond the arc) to fall one point shy of matching Concordia’s NAIA school record.No. 8 – Cavalier track & field teams swept the men’s and women’s teamchases for the fourth straight season at the CCC Championships. The twosquads went on to score top-10 finishes at the NAIA Outdoor Championshipswhere 15 student-athletes earned All-American honors.No. 7 – The CU women’s golf team rolled to its third straight CCC No. 4 – Bettering his schooltitle with all five golfers finishing in the top six individuals while the men’s record in the 5,000-meter run bysquad held off a pair of threats in Northwest Christian and Corban to hoist its more than 13 seconds with a time ofthird straight conference trophy. The Cavalier women went on to place fifth at 14:33.22, Eric Burck, a senior fromnationals, their highest result in the history of the program. Ephrata, Wash., controlled the final kilometer of the race to pull awayNo. 6 – In a rematch of a game from the field for the school’s first men’s indoor national championship.played earlier in the season when thetwo squads were ranked No.1 and No. 3 – Concordia’s AndriaNo. 2 in the nation, a determinedConcordia women’s soccer squad Scheese and Dylan Smith weremade it through the muddy conditions honored with national awards by theto dominate Cal Baptist with a 3-1 NAIA as Scheese, a junior distancewin in the quarterfinals of the NAIA runner from Oregon City, Ore.,Championships. was named the “All that's Right in Sport” award winner, while Smith, a senior pitcher from Vancouver, Wash., received the Dr. LeRoy Walker Champions of Character Award.32 concordia connection

No. 2 – Concordia, along with Navy & Whitethe Cascade Collegiate Conference, No. 1 – On the strengthbrought the NAIA Cross CountryChampionships to the West Coast of six regular season conferencefor the first time by hosting the event championships, Concordia earnedacross the border at Fort Vancouver the 2009-10 Cascade CollegiateNational Site. The CU harriers made Conference All-Sports Trophy. Thethe most of the local competition by accomplishment is the third in theclaiming top-15 team finishes. past four years for the Cavs. The Cavaliers finished the year ranked No. 13 among all NAIA institutions in the final Directors’ Cup standings. Concordia Softball at CCC Championship2009-2010 by the Numbers6 CCC Championship Teams 98 All-Conference HonorsMen’s Golf 54 Academic All-CCCMen’s Track & Field 34 NAIA All-AmericansSoftball 15 NAIA Scholar AthletesWomen’s GolfWomen’s Soccer 9 CCC Player of the Year AwardsWomen’s Track & Field 7 ESPN-CoSIDA Academic All-District 1 ESPN-CoSIDA Academic All-American –9 NAIA Championship Kayla VickaryousQualifying Teams 1 NAIA National Champion – Eric BurckMen’s Cross Country (13th) 1 Dr. Leroy Walker Award winner – Dylan SmithMen’s Indoor Track & Field (17th) 1 “All that’s Right in Sports” Award –Men’s Outdoor Track & Field (5th) Andria ScheeseSoftball (No. 3 seed) 1 CCC All-Sports TrophyWomen’s Cross Country (12th) 1 CCC Athletic Director of the Year –Women’s Golf (5th) Matt EnglishWomen’s Indoor Track & Field (11th) 1 CCC Sports Information Director of the Year –Women’s Outdoor Track & Field (7th) Jason DormeyerWomen’s Soccer (Semifinals) Dylan Smith, Pitcher, Class of 2010 Fall 2010 33

Navy & WhiteDipascuale Delivers Beyond All ExpectationSince he was a child in Argentina, That purpose revolves around giving Dipascuale credits Gary Withers, soccer has always opened doors back to the community and doing the University’s executive vicefor junior Facundo Dipascuale. everything he can to make the world a president for external affairs, for When he moved to Beaverton with better place. He volunteers at the local showing him the value of communityhis mother and siblings at the age of elementary school, Faubion, one of service. Withers was paired withnine, soccer was the conduit to help Concordia’s primary community Dipascuale as a mentor through thehim make friends and adjust to a new partners, as a teacher and a mentor. He University’s Commitment Programculture. also works with kids in Nike’s Back Your when Dipascuale was a freshman. After graduating from Lakeridge Block program, and helps out with The relationship has paid dividendsHigh in Lake Oswego, he earned the homeless and Special Olympics. for both men.a scholarship to attend collegeand a chance to play at Concordia “He has a great opportunity for leadership.University. After two successful years in the He is aware of that and he understands theclassroom and on the field atConcordia, Dipascuale realized soccer responsibility that comes with it.”helped him find something even » Dan Birkey, Head Coachmore important: himself. “Soccer has given me an “I changed as a person because “I may be his mentor,” Withersopportunity to grow as a person, of community service and because said, “but I think I’ve learned farboth on and off the field,” he said. of Concordia. Doing service work more from him than he has from“I’ve grown up. I’ve matured, and brings my spirits up, it just makes my me.”I’ve become a better person because day – I look forward to it,” he said. Dipascuale’s sense of service andof it [soccer].” The community service has also selflessness have made him a true role As a sophomore, Dipascuale changed his perspective. model according to Withers.finished third on the team in scoring, “I get to have the deep conversations “He is a young man of reasonablywith nine goals and five assists to with my family now, not just soccer, modest means, yet he has this deephelp the team advance to the Cascade soccer, soccer; it’s more about what’s abiding commitment to serve othersCollegiate Conference finals for the happening in the world and what we and to make the world a better placeninth straight year. can do about it,” he said. for others,” Withers said. “It has been That Dipascuale would findsuccess on the field came as asurprise to few, but his success in theclassroom has even surprised him. This past year, he was namedAcademic All-Conference by theCascade Collegiate Conference for hishard work in the classroom and hiscommitment to community service.He's made tremendous progress sincethe end of his senior year in highschool when he wasn’t sure if he’deven graduate. “Now, I don’t even have to talk tomy mom about grades or anythingbecause she knows that I’m here for areason,” he said.“I have a purpose now.”34 concordia connection To participate in upcoming CU service events, visit www.cu-portland.edu/calendar

Navy & White complex and its potential impact on the team and the Northeast community he has grown so close to. “With a new field, we could walk over to Faubion (School) and invite the kids to come to our games since its only 100 yards,” he said. “We could get our students who are coming out of class and our teachers to just walk over and watch our games.” “It would have such a big impact on Northeast Portland,” he said. “What I want in the future is to have the community behind us.” A fitting sentiment for someone who has truly come to call Concordia University home. his own drive, looking at things from Dipascuale’s continued development 2009 Athletic & ACADEMICa long-term perspective and his and hopeful the team can win its Accomplishmentswillingness to make sacrifices that have ninth title in the last ten years.helped him accomplish so much.” “He has a great opportunity for First-Team All-CCC Dipascuale is currently focused leadership,” he said. “He is awareon avenging the soccer team’s loss of that and he understands the Academic All-CCCto Warner Pacific in last year’s responsibility that comes with it.”conference championships. Coach Dipascuale is equally excited about Started in 18 of 20 matchesDan Birkey is excited to watch the future opening of the new athletic Second on team with 9 goals Third on team with 23 points Two game-winning goals against The Evergreen State College (10/20) and College of Idaho (10/26) Fall 2010 35

VisionOUR Mission Statement Concordia grounds its future in a rich understanding of its history, while embracing opportunities that lie ahead.Concordia is a Christian University preparing The Vision for what we choose to be in the year 2020 isleaders for the transformation of society. based on the input of hundreds of people across a variety of internal and external constituent groups over theOUR CORE VALUES course of the past year.At Concordia the following five core values, values In the execution of its mission as informed by its core values, and its historic, activecurrently in action, inform and delineate our and ongoing relationship and partnership with the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod,decisions and choices: in 2020 Concordia University will be known for and characterized throughout the region by the following attributes: Christian Teaching and Learning Concordia creates an environment in which individuals are transformed, becoming Excellence servant-leaders who are agents of positive change, through ethical, humble and Community rigorous leadership, with and for their communities and around the world. Service Concordia exemplifies rich, reciprocal community relationships which infuse andOUR VISION Servant Leaders. energize every aspect of the campus and bring demonstrable and sustainable value to the university, the students, and the communities. Community Connected. Concordia’s programs and services are structured to meet the evolving demands of Student Choice. student choice and market direction, including the method and location of delivery. Relationships. Concordia provides “the Concordia Experience” to all its students, including Rigorous. attention to intellectual, creative, spiritual, physical, emotional, social and ethical Lutheran. development delivered through nurturing and respectful relationships, rich co- Anchored. curricular offerings and vibrant community engagement. Agile. Concordia’s programs prepare students for meaningful vocations through intellectually challenging academic engagement, research and global preparedness. Concordia engages diverse perspectives in an environment of open discourse and academic freedom while bringing a distinctive voice and lens, rooted in the Christian faith, Lutheran understanding and heritage, and liberal arts tradition. Concordia is anchored by its Northeast Portland residential campus which is a spirited, vibrant community and a hub from which other relationships and offerings emanate. Concordia embraces organizational learning and readily explores new opportunities and practices in light of its core values and vision, facilitating learning across the university and continuously transforming itself in ways that are responsive to student needs and changes in the environment.

Nailed PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF TERRY BLACKBURN, PORTLAND, OREGON to the DoorNailed to the Door provides Concordia staff, faculty, alumni, and students a forum for editorial comment. This issue’s guest writer is Jane Graves Smith,EdD, Professor of Psychology, Social Science Department ChairFruits of Academic Achievement & Christian Compassion This past spring I attended the sixth annual Senior DeAndre Burton summarized his volunteer service atSymposium held by the College of Theology, Arts, & the Salvation Army Adult Rehabilitation Center asSciences (CTAS) at Concordia. This event highlights the “listening with compassion.” DeAndre recounted hisdynamic “capstone” experiences of students from various many interactions with men who were addicted todepartments in the college, including Psychology, Biology, substances and/or had criminal pasts. With great care andChemistry, English, Humanities, History, and Theology. compassion—and without expressing judgment or fear— During their final academic year, each student DeAndre recounted how he listened to their stories andcompletes a thesis, internship, or practicum and presents showed Christian care by just sitting with them.their research to an audience of faculty, staff, and students Meredith Polhemus works as a Community Supportat Concordia. Organized as a professional conference, Specialist with Catholic Community Services. In this role,each student must also respond to comments, questions, she serves as a mentor to children and teens who haveand critiques from the audience. survived trauma and/or are diagnosed with a variety of I am left in awe by the accomplishments of these mental illnesses. In her final essay, written to fulfill thebright, diligent individuals, and many of the presentations requirements of her psychology internship, she capturedoffered this year were particularly moving. the palpable nature of her transformation at Concordia: At Concordia University, we speak often about “servant “To Martin Luther King Jr.’s life question—“What are leadership.” It is enshrined in our mission statement in you doing for others?”— I now have an answer. I am earning which we profess boldly to prepare leaders to transform an education that can be utilized to assist those who are insociety. The presentations at the Symposium provide need of help. I am coming alongside those who are in painconcrete evidence that these lofty goals are being met. and am trying to bring comfort and support to let them know A few synopses from a sample of this year’s presenters that they are not alone. I, by the grace and love of God, amillustrate what I mean: showing love to the broken, wounded, and suffering, and Danielle Forster completed her psychology internship showing them that there is in fact a different way to live life.”by volunteering at the Portland Women’s Crisis Line. In Concordia faculty frequently discuss how to continueher presentation, Danielle described the pain of listening to enliven the University’s mission statement. Duringto the many heartbreaking stories. She learned to respond the Senior Symposium 2010, I saw life breathed into thatwith intelligence, tempered by care, and brought her statement as students fused academic achievement andinnate compassion to the task. She also described the Christian compassion into the service of others.heavy burden that she bore weeks later in not knowing As I watched these students present both their researchwhether her callers acted on her advice and guidance. At and share their experiences with such poise andthe Symposium she was asked how she managed to carry professionalism, I thought to myself that I am richlythat load; she responded, “I have to do my best, listen with blessed to call myself a professor at Concordia University. compassion, then leave them at the foot of the cross.” - Jane Graves Smith, EdD Professor of Psychology, Social Science Department Chair Fall 2010 37

2811 NE Holman Street Portland, Oregon 97211-6099 NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION U.S. POSTAGE PAID PORTLAND, OR PERMIT #654VICATNOERWYAITfSHi.eL..lEdTI!C Victory is…strength of character. Our Character is contagious. From our coaching staff to our student-athletes, we teach and live out the Champions of Characters' five core values of respect, responsibility, integrity, servant leadership, and sportsmanship. Victory is…overcoming adversity. Adversity makes us stronger. 97 percent of our students receive tuition assistance. Many are first-generation college students. Victory is…a healthy community. Sport empowers communities. We know how the power of sports and the spirit of fans can empower a community. Our athletes are coaching summer camps for 1,000 local kids, running free basketball clinics, and volunteering with Special Olympics. Victory is…a shared space to play. Field space is community space. More than 2,000 hours of the new well-lit, year-round turf field and facilities will be dedicated for community use. To ge t her , l e t ’ s g o an d ge t The B i g V. For more information or to donate please visit www.cu-portland.edu/athleticcomplex or call Kevin Matheny at 503-493-6521 or email [email protected].