Month: September 2022

Luther College celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month with events and guest lecture

Luther College will be recognizing Hispanic Heritage Month with events and a special guest lecture by Dr. Andrés Espinoza Agurto. From Sept. 15 to Oct. 15, the public is invited to celebrate Hispanic American individuals with roots in Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America. 

 

For more than 40 years, Hispanic Heritage Month (also known as LatinX Heritage Month) has been a national celebration. It is important we highlight and show appreciation for the rich history, heritage and contributions of the LatinX community throughout our nation and beyond. In the U.S., the LatinX population has reached over 60 million in 2020, making them the nation’s second-fastest-growing racial or ethnic group after Asian Americans. The growth and impact of this vibrant community are evident and should be honored.

 

Dr. Robert Clay, chief equity and inclusion officer, Luther College

At 7 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 27, in Olin 102 on the Luther College campus will be a special guest lecture titled “Salsa Consciente: Politics, Poetics, and Latinidad in the Meta-Barrio” by Dr. Andrés Espinoza Agurto. Agurto is an associate professor of music at Florida Atlantic University. His research focuses on the Salsa Consciente movement that exploded in the 1970s and the impact of salsa music on social and political identities within Latino and Latin American communities.

“Dr. Andrés Espinoza Agurto’s lecture will provide an opportunity for the campus community to learn firsthand of the unique relationship between music and the arts and their influence on creating social justice movements,” said Clay. 

 Prior to Agurto’s lecture, on Wednesday, Sept. 21, there will be a day dedicated to learning opportunities through various cultural engagement efforts such as chapel, film screenings, cuisine and the arts. Film showings include “Viva La Causa,” “Banana Land: Blood, Bullets, and Poison” and “America First: The Legacy of an Immigration Raid.” There will also be Hispanic-themed food served in the Cafeteria and music in Bentdahl Commons on this day. 

Other events include La Merienda or “the snack” of coffee and sweet bread at 4 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 7, in the Center for Intercultural Engagement and Support and a spoken word performance by Chibbi at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 12, in Marty’s. For more information on all Hispanic Heritage Month events visit luther.edu/events.

About Luther College

Luther College is home to about 1,800 undergraduates who explore big questions and take action to benefit people, communities and society. Our academic programs, experiential approach to learning and welcoming community inspire students to learn actively, live purposefully and lead courageously for a lifetime of impact. Learn more at luther.edu. 

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Decorah High School Celebrates Homecoming Week

Students at Decorah High School are preparing for a week’s worth of activities to celebrate Homecoming 2022.  

Homecoming week activities will commence with the Viking Olympics on Sunday, September 11, at Decorah High School. Viking Olympics aims to develop camaraderie and encourage team building among students across all grade levels. Each of the ten teams competing will consist of two boys and two girls from each grade level. They will compete against each other in trivia, kickball, bags, and tug of war. Proceeds from the Viking Olympics will be donated to a charity of the students’ choice.  

The student body’s choice for Homecoming king and queen will be revealed at the coronation ceremony on Friday afternoon, September 16, in the Decorah High School auditorium. 

Queen candidates from the senior class include Rebecca Bruening, daughter of Keith and Amy Bruening; Sophia Christman, daughter of Robert and Victoria Christman; Ella Grouws, daughter of David and Jennifer Grouws; Ellen Rooney, daughter of Dave and Annette Rooney; and Annalise Skrade, daughter of Paul and Miriam Skrade.

King candidates from the senior class include Jaden Baker, son of James and Wendy Baker; Ethan Bockman, son of Jason Bockman and Tonyia Seiler; Erik Hjelle, son of John and Tracy Hjelle; Jackson Knoke, son of Fred and Amy Knoke; and Benjamin Wymer, son of Curt and Sarah Wymer.

Junior class attendants are Hayley Stowe, daughter of Haywood and Erika Stowe, and Peter Essa, son of Jared and Tracy Essa.

Representing the sophomore class as attendants are Leah Holland, daughter of Steve and Krista Holland, and Grant Zilka, son of Keith and Jessica Zilka.

Lauren Luzum, daughter of Brian and Jennessa Luzum, and Trevor Kuennen, son of Ted and Nicholle Kuennen, will represent the freshman class.

A pep rally will immediately follow the coronation. The Homecoming parade will start at 2:30 p.m. at the high school and follow the traditional homecoming parade route down West Water Street and River Street.

It will be a clash on the gridiron as the Decorah Vikings take on the Comets of Charles City on Friday evening at 7:30 p.m. The Decorah freshman football team will play at 5:00 p.m. 

The Homecoming queen and king, their court, and their parents will be presented at halftime of the varsity game, along with a performance by the Decorah High School Pride of the Vikings marching band.

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DHS Homecoming Attendants (l-r): Freshmen Lauren Luzum and Trevor Kuennen, Sophomores Leah Holland and Grant Zilka, and Juniors Hayley Stowe and Peter Essa
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DHS Homecoming Court: Front row (l-r): Ellen Rooney, Annalise Skrade, Sophia Christman, Ella Grouws, and Rebecca Bruening
Back row (l-r): Ben Wymer, Jaden Baker, Ethan Bockman, Erik Hjelle, and Jack Knoke

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Attendants and Court: Front row (l-r): Freshmen Lauren Luzum and Trevor Kuennen, Sophomores Leah Holland and Grant Zilka, and Juniors Hayley Stowe and Peter Essa
Middle row (l-r): Ellen Rooney, Annalise Skrade, Sophia Christman, Ella Grouws, and Rebecca Bruening
Back row (l-r): Jack Knoke, Jaden Baker, Ethan Bockman, Ben Wymer, and Erik Hjelle

Rhymes With Decorah Podcast: RWD19 Chris Johnson – Vesterheim Museum

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Vesterheim Norwegian American Museum has roots that go back to the 1800s and a collection of artifacts that was first formed at Luther College in Decorah. Those items became the roots for what is now the most extensive collection of Norwegian American Artifacts (33,000 and counting!) in the World.

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On today’s show, we talk with Vesterheim President and CEO Chris Johnson about the old and new of Vesterheim, as well as his roots to NE Iowa and life long connections to Decorah.

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Norway’s US Ambassador Kåre Aas & Vesterheim’s Chris Johnson

Vesterheim encompasses not just an amazing collection of artifacts though, it is also home to a beautiful outdoor campus, an amazing Folk Art School with classes for all ages, a research library and archive. Simply put, Vesterheim is not just a museum or destination, but a community of members from across the World who recognize the immigrant experience and importance of immigrant stories to our culture.

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The “Strong Roots, Bold Future” Campaign has been the work and vision of many involved with Vesterheim to continue making not only a fantastic destination, but also re-think how Vesterheim can continue to reach new audiences near and far through online programming, and interactive opportunities. The five pillars of the campaign include:

– Grow the campus around a new, world-class gathering and exhibit addition;

– Connect the historic collection with contemporary art and social movements;

– Expand the digital reach of the folk art / collection, enrichment opportunities;

– Engage audiences from near and far, and of every background searching for meaningful cultural experiences;

– Draw people together into community, both in person and virtually to share stories of their journeys.

Exciting outcomes of this project have already included the reconstruction of Vesterheim’s outdoor campus as “Heritage Park” – a beautiful outdoor setting connecting the historic structures of the campus. And the new “Vesterheim Commons” building which will act as the new “front door” and meeting place to the Museum and so much more.

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We can’t thank Chris enough for taking the time talk with us today to share his stories and vision for Vesterheim.

Find out more about Vesterheim, see virtual galleries, class offerings, become a member, or donate and support the museum by visiting vesterheim.org

Luther College Center Stage Series presents: The Rodney Marsalis Philadelphia Big Brass

At 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 22, the Luther College Center Stage Series presents The Rodney Marsalis Philadelphia Big Brass in the Main Hall of the Center for Faith and Life. The premier large brass ensemble performs music that “breaks genre barriers” in venues across the world. From jazz to Bach, this is a concert experience that has something for everyone. 

“As an ensemble, they strive to reflect the diversity of American culture and believe that music is a gift to be created and enjoyed by all,” said Kristen Underwood, director of campus programming. “One of our brass faculty at Luther told me he couldn’t be more thrilled with this addition to the season, saying ‘Rodney is an outstanding person and a brilliant performer.’ I’m thrilled to open our season with this illustrious ensemble.”

Since its beginnings on the streets of New Orleans, The Rodney Marsalis Philadelphia Big Brass strives to create connection between the audience and performers. The group is especially dedicated to encouraging the world’s youth to reach for their dreams, as Rodney was encouraged to do as a child. The brass players will engage with a select group of Luther Music students in the afternoon, before performing for the public in the evening. 

Note that this date was originally scheduled for “An Evening with Branford Marsalis.” Due to complications from a knee injury, Branford will not be touring this fall. This performance is sponsored in part by Gundersen Health System. 

The highly creative and talented chefs on the Norse Culinary Team invite you to partake in the Center Stage Dinner Series before the show. The dinners feature a multi-course menu to complement each performance. A separate ticket is required. All meals begin at 5:30 p.m. in Peace Dining Room on the second floor of Dahl Centennial Union. Additionally, the Luther Book Shop offers “Sip and Shop” before each performance. Present your ticket for a complimentary glass of wine and browse the selection before the show.

Both dinner and show tickets are on sale through Luther’s Ticket Office and online at tickets.luther.edu, by emailing tickets@luther.edu or by calling (563) 387-1357.

About Luther College

Luther College is home to about 1,800 undergraduates who explore big questions and take action to benefit people, communities and society. Our academic programs, experiential approach to learning and welcoming community inspire students to learn actively, live purposefully and lead courageously for a lifetime of impact. Learn more at luther.edu.

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Luther College students awarded Kuh and Krahn Family Awards

Jack Bell ’25 and Kaylee Martin ’23 have been awarded the Kuh Family “Positively Luther” Award and the Krahn Family Student Life Service Award respectively for their contributions to the Luther community and participation in activities that embrace the spirit and mission of Luther College.

Kuh Family “Positively Luther” Award

Established in 2015 by George D. Kuh ’68, Warren R. Kuh ’74, and Kristian R. Kuh ’97, the “Positively Luther” award is given each year to a student whose character, leadership and participation in co-curricular and other educationally purposeful activities enhance the quality of campus life. Jack Bell ’25 is receiving this award for his commitment to uplifting others while being a multiple sport athlete and excelling in his academics. He is also working towards improving mental health access and awareness on campus. 

Bell is a member of the men’s soccer team, the men’s swimming and diving team, and is a member of the American Rivers Conference Student Athlete Advisory Board. His swimming and diving coach, Aaron Zander, encouraged Bell to apply for this award. 

“Jack is Luther, through and through. He is one of the most positive, outwardly passionate and caring individuals I’ve had the chance to coach,” says Zander. “He motivates his teammates and classmates in everything he’s a part of. Combine that with high outcomes in the pool and the classroom – Jack exemplifies what Luther stands for.”

Bell, an exercise science major with a leadership studies minor, says he is honored to be receiving this award. Because his academics and athletics take most of his time, he looks for ways to give back and encourage others in his day-to-day. 

“I set out to find ways to be better. I found ways to help team chemistry and to work in the Decorah community with classes,” says Bell. “I’m trying to learn from everyone I can, and I hope that sets an example for others. Being awarded ‘Positively Luther’ after one year here makes me believe my efforts have been worthwhile. It’s reassuring to know the school I picked for college believes in, recognizes and rewards many of my values.” 

Krahn Family Student Life Service Award

The Krahn Family Student Life Service Award was established in 2013 by Roger A. ’68 and Laurie Krahn and recognizes a student who makes a positive impact on student life. Kaylee Martin ’23, a social work major, was nominated by multiple faculty and staff members for her commitment to helping others. 

“Kaylee is a determined, self-sufficient individual who actively contributes to the well-being of others. Her work with individuals with disabilities and as a mentor with Helping Services showcases the value she places on serving others in the community,” says Heather Cote, student achievement specialist. 

“Kaylee has impressed her social work instructors by her immense drive and deep commitment to social justice and to creating a campus that is safe for all and a place where everyone can grow and thrive,” said Andy Eastwood, assistant professor of social work. 

Martin is building an impressive resume. On campus, she is the vice president of the Luther College Social Work Association, vice president of Special Olympics at Luther College, vice-chair of Alpha Lambda Delta, and she is a peer leader for the TRIO Achievement Program. She has also served on the honor council and was one of the Student Senate diversity representatives for gender and sexuality. Outside of Luther, Martin serves as a Mentor For A Day through Helping Services, she is a student representative for the National Association of Social Workers Iowa Chapter, and she is a skills trainer at Opportunity Homes Inc. in Decorah. 

“I am very grateful and appreciative to receive this award. I work very hard in extracurricular activities and receiving this award makes me feel as though I am making a difference through all of my commitments,” says Martin. “It is important for me to contribute to campus life because I have been positively impacted by others at Luther and my goal is to continue that trend. Helping the Luther College community brings me a sense of happiness.” 

About Luther College

Luther College is home to about 1,800 undergraduates who explore big questions and take action to benefit people, communities and society. Our academic programs, experiential approach to learning and welcoming community inspire students to learn actively, live purposefully and lead courageously for a lifetime of impact. Learn more at luther.edu.

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Pulitzer Prize-winning photojournalist Lynsey Addario to give Farwell Distinguished Lecture

September 2, 2022

Renowned photojournalist Lynsey Addario will present the 2022 Farwell Distinguished Lecture at Luther College at 7 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 15, in the Main Hall of the Center for Faith and Life via Zoom. The title of her talk is “Of Love and War: Stories of Tragedy and Resilience from Across the World.” 

“Lynsey Addario is an inspiration. It’s an honor to be bringing her to Luther, from wherever she is in the world on Sept. 15,” said Kristen Underwood, director of campus programming. “She’ll be sharing her photographs and perspectives on the people who are affected by war and other disasters out of their control, yet still find beauty and love in the world. I think the audience will recognize her work, even if her name isn’t familiar to them. She has changed the way we see humanitarian crises.” 

Addario covers major conflict zones across the world and is a regular contributor to National Geographic, The New York Times and TIME Magazine. She was the recipient of the 2009 Pulitzer Prize for International Reporting for her photographs in the New York Times “Talibanistan” and she was named one of five Most Influential Photographers of the past 25 years for changing the way we see conflict in the world. 

Some of Addario’s recent work includes “Finding Home,” a year-long documentary following three Syrian refugee families and their newborns over the course of one year for TIME Magazine. She also completed a project called “The Displaced” for the New York Times Magazine in which she documented the lives of three children displaced from war in Syria, Ukraine and South Sudan. 

Following the lecture will be a question and answer session moderated by Maryna Bazylevych, associate professor of anthropology. Underwood says she asked Bazylevych to lead the session because of her leadership in Luther’s Global Health major and because Bazylevych has a personal connection to some of Addario’s work. Ukraine is Bazylevych’s home country and Addario has been covering the humanitarian crisis there caused by the Russian invasion. 

Sponsored by the Elwin D. and Helen Farwell Distinguished Lecture Series Endowment, this lecture is open to the public with no charge for admission. Addario will speak to a live audience in the CFL via Zoom, with a Q&A session to follow. To join virtually, a link will be available at luther.edu/events under this event listing.

 

About Luther College

Luther College is home to about 1,800 undergraduates who explore big questions and take action to benefit people, communities and society. Our academic programs, experiential approach to learning and welcoming community inspire students to learn actively, live purposefully and lead courageously for a lifetime of impact. Learn more at luther.edu.

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