Luther College News – Page 5

Luther College invites public to celebrate Black History Month

January 28, 2026 Luther College News

Luther College will host a series of events to commemorate Black History Month in February. The events include a keynote lecture, a panel discussion and social gatherings held at local businesses. The events are open to the public.

“Black History Month is an opportunity for our campus and the wider Decorah community to reflect on the histories, contributions and resilience of Black communities,” said Khadija Ramadan ’26, president of the Black Student Union (BSU) at Luther College. “Through these events, we hope to create spaces for learning, dialogue and celebration, and we invite students, faculty and community members to join us in recognizing the enduring impact of Black history on our shared society.”

Black History Month Keynote Address, “Misinvalidation: The Space between Hearing and Believing,” Wednesday, Feb. 25, 7 p.m., Recital Hall, Center for Faith and Life (CFL)

Steven D. Kniffley Jr., a licensed clinical psychologist, associate professor and higher education administrator, will give the Black History Month Keynote Address at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 25 in the Recital Hall at the Center for Faith and Life at Luther College.

In this program, Steven D. Kniffley Jr. will examine how misinvalidation — hearing without believing — shapes the experiences of Black and other minoritized communities and will offer practical tools to strengthen belonging, trust and inclusive engagement across campus. This event is sponsored by the Center for Intercultural Engagement and Support (CIES) at Luther College.

Kniffley is a licensed clinical psychologist, associate professor and higher education administrator. His area of expertise is research and clinical work with Black males and the treatment of race-based stress and trauma. Kniffley has written numerous books, book chapters and articles on Black male mental health, Black males and the criminal justice system, racial trauma treatment and training, program evaluation, organizational diversity and academic achievement.

Currently, Kniffley serves as the vice president for diversity for the Ohio Psychological Association. He also serves on the National Board for the Association of Black Psychologists. Most recently, Kniffley was inducted into the Black Psychologist Hall of Fame at Hampton University.

Panel Discussion: Black Joy in the Midwest, Thursday, Feb. 12, 6 p.m., Recital Hall, CFL

Luther’s Department of Identity Studies will host a panel discussion focused on Black joy in the Midwest featuring speakers from around the region. Speakers include Ashley Howard, assistant professor of history at the University of Iowa; Eugene Tesdahl, professor of history at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville; Frank King, associate professor of history at UW-Platteville; and Mark Guerci, assistant professor at Luther College. The panel discussion is sponsored by the Department of Identity Studies and the Lucille Brickner Brown Price Lecture.

Established by Lucille B. Price, the Price Distinguished Lecture Series is held in recognition of the value of a liberal arts education for women as they become leaders in today’s society. The fund supports speakers who illustrate the roles, contributions, programs and achievements of women as leaders in society.

Bowling, Friday, Feb. 13, 8 p.m., KingPin Entertainment Center, 400 Heivly St., Decorah

The BSU is sponsoring bowling for Luther students at KingPin. Transportation will be provided. Students should meet at 7:30 p.m. at the Dahl Centennial Union.

Cultural Community Connections, Tuesday, Feb. 17, 5 p.m., The Landing Market, 211 College Drive, Decorah

For February’s Cultural Community Connections event, the BSU members will cook a meal featuring jerk chicken, fried rice and plantains with puff balls (puff puff) for dessert. The cost is $10 per person or $5 for students (with ID) attending any college or university and for children 17 and younger. No reservations are needed. This event is held through a partnership between CIES, The Landing Market and BSU.

Catalyst Quartet will perform at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 13, in the Center for Faith and Life Main Hall.

January 27 2026

Curry will highlight the theme of “Courage for the Common Good” in the shared legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. and Martin Luther, both of whom confronted injustice and uplifted people.

January 5 2026

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Grammy Award-winning Catalyst Quartet reimagines the classical music experience

January 27, 2026 Luther College News

Catalyst Quartet, a string ensemble that reimagines the classical music experience through a mission rooted in unity, outreach and artistic excellence, will perform at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 13, in the Center for Faith and Life Main Hall. The performance is part of Luther College’s 2025-26 Center Stage Series.

Catalyst Quartet will perform at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 13, 2026, in the Center for Faith and Life Main Hall at Luther College.

“Catalyst Quartet is one of the most interesting string quartets and we are thrilled to host them in Decorah,” said Susan Potvin, director of programming and outreach.

Hailed by The New York Times as “invariably energetic and finely burnished,” Catalyst Quartet was founded by the internationally acclaimed Sphinx Organization in 2010. The ensemble (Karla Donehew Perez, violin; Abi Fayette, violin; Paul Laraia, viola; and Karlos Rodriguez, cello) believes in the unity that can be achieved through music. They imagine their programs and projects with this belief in mind. They are known for redefining and reimagining the classical music experience for audiences.

“It’s particularly interesting that the final piece on their Feb. 13 program is Czech composer Antonin Dvorak’s ‘American Quartet,’” Potvin said. “Dvorak wrote the piece in June 1893 while vacationing in nearby Spillville. Dvorak found contentment and inspiration from the peaceful natural surroundings and the hospitality of the local community during his time in Iowa. ‘American Quartet’ quickly became a frequently performed work for chamber ensembles.”

Additionally, Catalyst Quartet is committed to celebrating composers of color whose works have been overlooked by the traditional canon. The ensemble’s ongoing project, “UNCOVERED,” is a multi-volume anthology that celebrates composers of color whose works have been overlooked by the traditional canon.

Volume 1 was released February 2021 and the album includes the string quartet and quintets of Samuel Coleridge-Taylor with clarinetist Anthony McGill and pianist Stewart Goodyear.

Released in February 2022, Volume 2 is devoted to composer Florence B. Price. Four of these songs are part of Catalyst Quartet’s Feb. 13 program at Luther College. Volume 3 was released in February 2023 and featured Coleridge-Taylor, Perkinson, William Grant Still and George Walker. Volume 4 is in the planning phase.

Catalyst Quartet has toured widely throughout the United States and had sold-out performances in Washington, D.C., Chicago, Miami and New York City. Catalyst Quartet played six concerts with jazz vocalist Cécile McLorin Salvant for Jazz at Lincoln Center. The subsequent recording won the 2018 Grammy Award for Best Jazz Vocal Album.

Before the performance, treat yourself to dinner starting at 5:30 p.m. in the Peace Dining Room at the Dahl Centennial Union. The cost is $33 per person. The meal starts with a pulled pork cornbread tartlet topped with whipped pimento cheese spread and fresh scallions. The main entree is Cajun gumbo with braised chicken thighs and andouille sausage served with roasted vegetables and white rice with pickled sweet jalapeños and red onions. A slice of olive oil cake coated with a citrus glaze and topped with fresh berries and shaved dark chocolate is dessert. Dietary accommodations are available upon request.

Buy tickets for the Feb. 13 performance and for the pre-show dinner at tickets.luther.edu or at the Luther Ticket Office in the Center for Faith and Life. Contact the ticket office at tickets@luther.edu or 563-387-1357 for more information.

Curry will highlight the theme of “Courage for the Common Good” in the shared legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. and Martin Luther, both of whom confronted injustice and uplifted people.

January 5 2026

How to watch “Fling Wide the Door!” from the comfort of your home during the hectic holiday season.

December 10 2025

Luther College Ticket Office

Ticket Office Hours:
Monday-Friday 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Thursday 9 a.m. – 7 p.m.

Show Day Hours:
9 a.m. – performance
Saturdays 1 p.m. – performance

Mail:
Luther College Ticket Office
Center for Faith & Life
700 College Dr
Decorah, Iowa 52101

tickets@luther.edu

Phone: 563-387-1357

Source link

Nordic Choir to perform in the Midwest and Southeast Jan. 24-Feb. 10

January 15, 2026 Luther College News

The Luther College Nordic Choir, one of the premier collegiate choral ensembles in the United States, is hitting the road for a five-state winter tour starting on Jan. 24.

For more than 75 years, the Luther College Nordic Choir has been at the forefront of collegiate choral music in the country. Today, the choir continues to celebrate its Norwegian heritage while embracing music from around the world.

Under the direction of Andrew Last, associate professor of music and director of choral activities, the program features a varied repertoire that includes Andrew Steffen’s “Home,” Gerald Kemner’s “Now, Shout” and Dolly Parton’s “Light of a Clear Blue Morning.” The concert will conclude with the traditional Nordic Choir closing piece, “O Lord God” by Pavel Chesnokov, with an invitation to alumni of the choir to join the ensemble on stage.

“Nordic Choir has an exciting program to share with audiences from Iowa City to Orlando,” Last said. “From J.S. Bach to Fred Rogers, our hope is to engage with friends and family while generating some new fans for Luther College along the way.”

The tour kicks off at First Lutheran Church in Duluth, Minn., on Jan. 24. From there, the choir travels to Lakeville, Minn., for a Jan. 25 performance at St. John’s Lutheran Church.

Then, while the rest of campus enjoys January Term break (Jan. 29-Feb. 3), Nordic Choir will enchant audiences with performances in the following locations:

Iowa City, Iowa
Cape Girardeau, Mo.
Nashville, Tenn.
Atlanta, Ga.
Savannah, Ga.
Winter Park, Fla.
Jacksonville Beach, Fla.
Manchester, Mo.

The choir will return to Decorah for a homecoming concert at 7:30 p.m. on Feb. 10 at the Center for Faith and Life Main Hall.

A complete tour schedule with performance times and locations is available online.

Concert tickets may be purchased in advance online at tickets.luther.edu or by calling 563-387-1357. To purchase tickets for a specific concert, select the corresponding date from the options. Tickets may also be purchased at the door one hour prior to the performance.

Nearly 570 students were named to Luther College’s Fall 2025 Dean’s List.

January 13 2026

How to watch “Fling Wide the Door!” from the comfort of your home during the hectic holiday season.

December 10 2025

Luther College Ticket Office

Ticket Office Hours:
Monday-Friday 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Thursday 9 a.m. – 7 p.m.

Show Day Hours:
9 a.m. – performance
Saturdays 1 p.m. – performance

Mail:
Luther College Ticket Office
Center for Faith & Life
700 College Dr
Decorah, Iowa 52101

tickets@luther.edu

Phone: 563-387-1357

Source link

Luther College announces Fall 2025 Dean’s List

January 13, 2026 Luther College News

Luther College’s Fall 2025 Dean’s List includes 569 students: 132 first-years, 120 sophomores, 121 juniors and 196 seniors. To be named to the Dean’s List, a student must earn a semester grade point average of 3.5 or better on a 4.0 scale and must complete at least 12 credit hours with 10 hours of conventional grades (A, B, C, D).

Beka Abesadze, Sophomore, Tbilisi, Georgia

Saba Abesadze, Sophomore, Tbilisi, Georgia

Marcia Addo, Sophomore, Accra, Ghana

Kael Adkins, First-year, Aurora, Ill.

Jacob Aji, Sophomore, Iowa City, Iowa

Henry Akers, First-year, Ankeny, Iowa

Makayla Alger, Senior, Davenport, Iowa

Abdullah Ali, Junior, Faisalabad, Pakistan

Victoria Alphs, Sophomore, Buffalo Center, Iowa

Jake Althaus, Senior, Durango, Iowa

Jayron Amerison-Smith, First-year, Des Moines, Iowa

Samuel Amundson, Sophomore, St. Paul, Minn.

Jeremy Andera, Senior, Cresco, Iowa

Clara Anderson, First-year, Mankato, Minn.

Jamie Anderson, Junior, Ames, Iowa

Karlton Anderson, Senior, Baxter, Minn.

Madilynne Anderson, First-year, Oxford, Iowa

Micah Anderson, Senior, Elko New Market, Minn.

Riley Anderson, Senior, Urbandale, Iowa

Rose Anderson, Junior, Oregon, Wis.

Simon Argue, Sophomore, Oronoco, Minn.

Ethan Arndt, Junior, Northfield, Minn.

Harrison Arnold, Senior, Marion, Iowa

Aayush Aryal, Junior, Kathmandu, Nepal

Melissa Atuhaire, First-year, Arusha, Tanzania

Conor Baesemann, Junior, Pleasanton, Calif.

Thomas Baker-Trinity, First-year, Shoreview, Minn.

Melanie Baltz, First-year, Rio Rancho, N.M.

David Barlecaj, Junior, Pfullendorf, Germany

Reece Barloon, Junior, Waucoma, Iowa

Lilly Barre, Sophomore, Riverside, Iowa

Alexsandra Barron, Junior, Houston, Texas

Anna Bartsch, Senior, Nerstrand, Minn.

Hannah Batterson, Senior, Cedar Falls, Iowa

Colin Battien, Senior, Cedar Rapids, Iowa

Addison Beasley, Sophomore, Sergeant Bluff, Iowa

Allison Beatty, Senior, Earlham, Iowa

Natalie Beaver, Junior, Hayfield, Minn.

Sonja Bell, Senior, Hudson, Wis.

Vienna Bell, Sophomore, Minneapolis, Minn.

Nathan Benish, Junior, Plymouth, Minn.

Duncan Benjamin, First-year, Kansas City, Mo.

Jackson Bennett, Sophomore, Milan, Ill.

Sophia Bennett, First-year, Dike, Iowa

Michael Benoit, Senior, Port Byron, Ill.

Annika Benson, Senior, Minneapolis, Minn.

Thea Bentley, Senior, River Falls, Wis.

Josie Bergler, Senior, Utica, Minn.

Rojan Bidari, Junior, Kathmandu, Nepal

Muhammad Bilal, Sophomore, Faisalabad, Pakistan

Phoebe Billingslea, Sophomore, Missoula, Mont.

Matthew Binsfeld, Senior, Elk River, Minn.

Rhys Biro-Moore, Junior, Nottinghamshire, United Kingdom

Reid Bjerke, Junior, Spring Grove, Minn.

Lydia Blomberg, Senior, Plymouth, Minn.

Jordan Blowers, First-year, Kenyon, Minn.

Andrea Bock, Senior, Medford, Minn.

Owen Bockenstedt, Sophomore, Rosemount, Minn.

Kenneth Boddie, Senior, Vista, Calif.

Alexander Bodnar, Junior, Colorado Springs, Colo.

Rachel Borchardt, Senior, Clarksville, Iowa

Nagham Boulos, Senior, Bethlehem, West Bank

Serenity Bownik, Sophomore, Mound, Minn.

James Bradley, Senior, Oshkosh, Wis.

Natalie Brandenburg, Junior, Lake Mills, Iowa

Juan Bravo, Senior, Los Banos, Calif.

Keiller Breva, Sophomore, Minneapolis, Minn.

Addison Brey, Sophomore, Plain, Wis.

Catherine Bright, Sophomore, Des Moines, Iowa

Eleanor Brown, Junior, La Crosse, Wis.

Sophia Brown, Sophomore, North Liberty, Iowa

Oliver Brummel, First-year, Decorah, Iowa

Isabelle Brummer, Senior, Stillwater, Minn.

Jacob Bruns, Junior, Cedar Rapids, Iowa

Bryce Buckley, First-year, Camanche, Iowa

Rylie Bucklin, Junior, Marion, Iowa

Hannah Buckner, Sophomore, Lakeville, Minn.

Alexander Burdzy, Junior, Algonquin, Ill.

Caleb Burke, Sophomore, Waukee, Iowa

Libby Bygd, Senior, Boyceville, Wis.

Kayla Byrne, Junior, Stewartville, Minn.

Grant Carder, Junior, Adel, Iowa

Hailey Carlson, Senior, Treynor, Iowa

Abigail Carroll, Senior, St. Michael, Minn.

Ethan Casper, First-year, Cresco, Iowa

Alexandria Cassens, Senior, Byron, Ill.

Liam Chamberlain, First-year, Decorah, Iowa

L’Engle Charis-Carlson, Senior, Iowa City, Iowa

Abhinav Chaulagai, Sophomore, Kathmandu, Nepal

Alexander Christ, First-year, Cedar Falls, Iowa

Sharon Chumlea, First-year, Cedarburg, Wis.

Anastasia Cicala, Senior, Chisinau, Moldova

Ethan Claire, Junior, Rochester, Minn.

Aaron Claxton, Sophomore, Cottage Grove, Minn.

Jaydan Clayton, Junior, Evansville, Ind.

Elizabeth Clement, Senior, Decorah, Iowa

Isabelle Clements, Sophomore, Russellville, Ark.

Noah Cochran, Junior, Lakeville, Minn.

William Coffey, Senior, Niagara, Wis.

Olivia Colchin, First-year, St. Paul, Minn.

Lauren Conner-Dieter, Senior, Madison, Wis.

Aime Consolateur, Junior, Ngarama, Rwanda

Abraham Conway, Junior, Calmar, Iowa

Roberto Coral Gomez, First-year, Fort Atkinson, Iowa

Lucy Corbin, Senior, Iowa City, Iowa

Theodore Cornell, Junior, Minneapolis, Minn.

Hayley Crosland, Junior, Hanover, Minn.

Cesar Cruz Barrantes, First-year, Flekke, Norway

Zachary Cummer, Senior, Waverly, Iowa

Tollef Currell, Senior, St. Paul, Minn.

Elizabeth Curtiss, First-year, Plainview, Minn.

Joe Dahl, Junior, Chanhassen, Minn.

Philip Dahlen, Sophomore, Rochester, Minn.

Bella Dassow, Senior, Woodbury, Minn.

Andi Davey, First-year, Otsego, Minn.

Elliott Dean, Junior, Duluth, Minn.

James Deeds, Sophomore, West Des Moines, Iowa

Katherine Denner, Senior, Marion, Iowa

Nathaniel Dennis, Senior, Winona, Minn.

Gennaro Dimuro, Junior, Buenos Aires, Argentina

Lavana Dixit, Senior, Kathmandu, Nepal

Jennifer Bakhita Do Rego Sabino, Junior, Victoria, Canada

Allison Dobbins, Senior, Littleton, Colo.

Abigail Doffing, Junior, Hastings, Minn.

Brielyn Doppler, Sophomore, Rochester, Minn.

Jack Dornack, Sophomore, Chatfield, Minn.

Maci Doty, Senior, Marengo, Iowa

Jack Dougan, First-year, Rochester, Minn.

Clara Douglas, First-year, Appleton, Wis.

Shae Downing, Senior, Sioux City, Iowa

Zoe Drey, Senior, Clive, Iowa

Elise Duncan, Junior, Benson, Minn.

Darbi Dunning, Senior, Le Sueur, Minn.

Sergey Dutt, Senior, Plain City, Ohio

Liam Edberg, Senior, Iowa City, Iowa

Iris Elias, First-year, St. Peter, Minn.

Will Elias, Junior, St. Peter, Minn.

Cora Ellingworth, Senior, Waverly, Iowa

Madelyn Elwood, Senior, Mason City, Iowa

Emma Englehart, Junior, St. Charles, Ill.

Abigail Englin, Sophomore, Hastings, Minn.

Elizabeth Ess, Senior, Waconia, Minn.

Chase Evans, Sophomore, Hamel, Minn.

Connor Evans, First-year, Montgomery, Ill.

Annika Evanson, Sophomore, Urbandale, Iowa

Jarlyne Felix Morel, First-year, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic

Avery Fisher, Sophomore, El Cajon, Calif.

Katherine Flannery, First-year, Washington, Iowa

Anna Floden, Senior, Mason City, Iowa

Erik Flores, Junior, Garnavillo, Iowa

Benjamin Folpe, First-year, Rochester, Minn.

Owen Ford, Junior, Eagan, Minn.

Renae Foster, Sophomore, Otsego, Minn.

Tyler Frank, First-year, Coralville, Iowa

Annika Franzen, Senior, Decorah, Iowa

Isabell Frenzel, First-year, Andover, Minn.

Benjamin Gabrielsson, First-year, Ankeny, Iowa

Noelle Gallucci, Sophomore, Carver, Minn.

Luis Galvez, Junior, La Vega, Dominican Republic

Oyuntugs Ganchuluun, Sophomore, Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia

Leah Gardner, Senior, Urbandale, Iowa

Samantha Garner, First-year, Le Claire, Iowa

Sarah Gay, Junior, Sun Prairie, Wis.

Ruby Gerhard, Sophomore, La Crosse, Wis.

Shan Ghimire, Junior, Kathmandu, Nepal

Anthi Giannakopoulou, Junior, Freiburg, Germany

Anika Gisvold, Sophomore, Dundas, Minn.

Elleanna Gisvold, Senior, Dundas, Minn.

Shania Gjerdingen, First-year, Northfield, Minn.

Payton Glenn, Senior, St. Paul, Minn.

Cassandra Goetsch, First-year, Wausau, Wis.

Grace Goldapp, First-year, Red Oak, Iowa

Ella Goodnight, Junior, Illinois City, Ill.

Ellie Greseth, Senior, St. Paul, Minn.

Katherine Griffin, Senior, Wisconsin Dells, Wis.

Jorden Grijalva, Sophomore, Glendale, Ariz.

Francine Grossman, First-year, St. Paul, Minn.

Neil Grube, Senior, Minneapolis, Minn.

Banele Gumede, Senior, Kwazulu-Natal, South Africa

Karlie Hagensick, Sophomore, Monona, Iowa

Malaika Hale, Senior, Centennial, Colo.

Addyson Hall, First-year, West Des Moines, Iowa

Kolby Hamman, Junior, Sioux Falls, S.D.

Penelope Hansen, Senior, St. Paul, Minn.

Teagan Hansen, Senior, Wabasha, Minn.

Elizabeth Hanson, First-year, West Des Moines, Iowa

Lindsay Hanson, Junior, Morristown, Minn.

Lucille Hanson, Junior, Nowthen, Minn.

Sharla Hanson, Senior, Minneapolis, Minn.

Andrew Harris, Junior, Stillwater, Minn.

Logan Harris, First-year, Peachtree City, Ga.

Jeremiah Haven, Junior, East Dubuque, Ill.

Lilly Hayden, Senior, Fulton, Ill.

Linnea Hedin, Senior, Hastings, Minn.

Jenna Heeren, Sophomore, New Hampton, Iowa

Joshua Heggernes, Sophomore, Mora, Minn.

Nathan Heil, First-year, New Glarus, Wis.

Michel Heinrich, Junior, Hannover, Germany

David Helbling, Senior, Freeport, Ill.

Eva Hemenway, Junior, Harmony, Minn.

Noelle Hendricks, Senior, Minneapolis, Minn.

Ava Henningsen, Junior, Ames, Iowa

Liam Henry, Junior, Buckeye, Ariz.

Casey Herek, First-year, Houston, Minn.

Maggie Hickman, Senior, Solon, Iowa

Piper Hicks, Sophomore, Grantsburg, Wis.

Harrison Hilyer, Senior, Sylacauga, Ala.

Gabriel Hiner, Junior, Decorah, Iowa

Jayce Hingtgen, Sophomore, Center Point, Iowa

Kenai Holien, Senior, Klawock, Alaska

Peter Hollingshead, Senior, Maple Grove, Minn.

Eva Hollingsworth, Sophomore, Platteville, Wis.

Anna Holm, Senior, St. Paul, Minn.

Allison Horswill, Senior, Iowa City, Iowa

Abigail Houston, Junior, Clive, Iowa

Teia Hulshizer, Senior, Utica, Minn.

Ella Husemann, Senior, Fairfax, Iowa

Lauren Ingram, Senior, Mantorville, Minn.

Ibrahim Jamil, First-year, Mandi Bahauddin, Pakistan

Makaylee Jensen, Senior, North Bend, Wash.

Tara Jeremiah Rajanesan, Senior, Tamil Nadu, India

Kathryn Jiran, Junior, Carver, Minn.

Annemarie Johnson, First-year, Mound, Minn.

Ethan Johnson, Senior, Brooklyn, Wis.

Jordan Johnson, First-year, Blaine, Minn.

Kate Johnson, Junior, Des Moines, Iowa

Lindley Johnson, First-year, Shakopee, Minn.

Molly Johnson, Senior, Davenport, Iowa

Svea Johnson, First-year, Waconia, Minn.

Alaina Johnson Nadeau, First-year, Lake City, Minn.

Rowan Jordahl, Junior, Hutchinson, Minn.

Cheyanne Jordan, Senior, Hastings, Minn.

Noah Jorgensen, Junior, Taylor Ridge, Ill.

Jordan Kahl, Sophomore, Humboldt, Iowa

Mansur Kasali, Junior, Ibadan, Nigeria

Anya Kennedy, First-year, Glover, Vt.

Katie Kierczynski, First-year, Geneva, Ill.

Suin Kim, Sophomore, Daegu, South Korea

Owen King, Junior, Dubuque, Iowa

Lillian Kitundu, Sophomore, Des Moines, Iowa

Mary Elisabeth Kitundu, Senior, Des Moines, Iowa

Sophie Klein, Senior, Minneapolis, Minn.

Jenna Kleven, Senior, Albert Lea, Minn.

Greta Kloos, Junior, St. Paul, Minn.

Kelsey Knief, Junior, Bellevue, Iowa

Olivia Korpi-Glumack, First-year, Faribault, Minn.

Mallory Kotewa, First-year, Lewistown, Ill.

Ansel Kowitz, First-year, Decorah, Iowa

Eva Kraske, Senior, Rochester, Minn.

Henry Kreckman, Sophomore, Oregon, Wis.

Keira Kreider, Sophomore, Ames, Iowa

Kevin Kretz, Senior, Fairfield, Iowa

Charlotte Krab, Sophomore, Mount Vernon, Iowa

Quinn Kruckman, Senior, Spillville, Iowa

Augustine Krueger, First-year, St. Michael, Minn.

Abigail Lamers, First-year, Hammond, Wis.

Elizabeth Lange, First-year, Shakopee, Minn.

Sophia Lange, First-year, Waterloo, Iowa

Jenna Langen, Senior, La Crescent, Minn.

Mya Larsen, Sophomore, Elkhorn, Neb.

Belle Le, Junior, Thanh Hoa, Vietnam

Minh Quang Le, Junior, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Lenny Lechner, Senior, Schwaigern, Germany

AJ Lee, Senior, Long Lake, Minn.

Emma Lee, Senior, Lewiston, Minn.

Eleanor Lefort, Junior, Golbey, France

Taylor Lehman, Senior, Ankeny, Iowa

Elijah Lehmann, Senior, Oregon, Wis.

Enzo Leite Mitidieri, Senior, Campinas, Brazil

Raymond Li, Sophomore, Zumbrota, Minn.

Lena Lichau, Junior, Marsberg, Germany

Elliot Lindberg, Sophomore, Danderyd, Sweden

Owen Loge, First-year, Waverly, Iowa

Folabomi Longe, Junior, Abuja, Nigeria

William Lookingbill, Sophomore, Urbandale, Iowa

Jackson Loomis, First-year, Winona, Minn.

Enrique Lopez Barriga, Senior, Pozuelo de Alarcon, Spain

Benjamin Lorence, Junior, Mason City, Iowa

Julianne Lundvall, Senior, Ames, Iowa

Mia Lung, Junior, Perham, Minn.

Que An Luong, First-year, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Dalton Luther, First-year, Aurora, Colo.

Kyla Maatta, Senior, Farmington, Minn.

Ireland Mac Glashin, Sophomore, Stoddard, Wis.

Alyce Madson, Senior, Robbinsdale, Minn.

Ethan Maldonado, Senior, Spillville, Iowa

Faneeza Malik, Senior, Lahore, Pakistan

Lydia Marti, Senior, Highland, Ill.

Mora Martine, First-year, Chaseburg, Wis.

Alison Martinez, Senior, Brighton, Colo.

Rose Martinsen-Burrell, Sophomore, Decorah, Iowa

Julianna Mascardo, Junior, Iowa City, Iowa

Mason Masche, Sophomore, Medford, Minn.

Hannah Mason, First-year, Duluth, Minn.

Andre Matos Palavra, Junior, Ovar, Portugal

Peter McBride, Senior, St. Louis Park, Minn.

Regan McConville, Senior, Ames, Iowa

Kira McCracken, Junior, Longmont, Colo.

Owen McCredie, Junior, Bettendorf, Iowa

Norah McDonald, Junior, Wellington, Colo.

Simon McDonald, Senior, Northfield, Minn.

Azaria McDonough, First-year, Nora Springs, Iowa

Malachi McElroy, Senior, Waukee, Iowa

Kenna McGee, Senior, Eldridge, Iowa

Kelsey McGregor, Sophomore, Yorkville, Ill.

Alannah McKibben, First-year, Marengo, Iowa

Elise McMann, First-year, Littleton, Colo.

Natalie McNutt, Sophomore, Lena, Ill.

Lillian McRoberts, Junior, Prior Lake, Minn.

Sean Medcalfe, Senior, Augusta, Ga.

Niamh Mee, Senior, St. Paul, Minn.

Elizabeth Meehan, Senior, Northfield, Minn.

Madeline Meehan, Junior, Sergeant Bluff, Iowa

Ruth Meehan, Senior, Iowa City, Iowa

Alex Meeter, Senior, Cedar Falls, Iowa

Mira Melander, Junior, Minneapolis, Minn.

Kathryn Merten, Senior, Ellensburg, Wash.

Ashlyn Meyer, Senior, Urbandale, Iowa

Jacob Michaelson, Senior, Iowa Falls, Iowa

Katherine Miklethun, Junior, Plymouth, Minn.

Alek Milenkovic, First-year, Geneva, Switzerland

Jaxon Millage, Sophomore, Cresco, Iowa

Elijah Miller, Junior, Lake City, Minn.

Grace Miller, Sophomore, Stewartville, Minn.

Hattie Miller, First-year, Elma, Iowa

Lucianna Miller, Sophomore, Ely, Iowa

Daniel Millner, Senior, Hastings, Minn.

Mari Mineck, Senior, Urbandale, Iowa

Brian Mitchell, Sophomore, Titusville, Fla.

Emma Mitchell, First-year, Lake Park, Minn.

Chloe Moeller, Junior, Rosemount, Minn.

Christian Montover, Senior, North Liberty, Iowa

Ywa Moo, Junior, St. Paul, Minn.

Nora Moon, First-year, Maple Grove, Minn.

Olivia Moore, Senior, Winona, Minn.

Norah Moravec, Junior, Rochester, Minn.

Kendall Moritz, Sophomore, Eau Claire, Wis.

Sophie Morken, Junior, Mabel, Wis.

Lawson Morris, Senior, Oskaloosa, Iowa

Nels Mortenson, Sophomore, Minneapolis, Minn.

Lindsey Moseley, Senior, Roseville, Minn.

Ayanda Motsa, Sophomore, Mbabane, Swaziland

Violet Mowrey, Junior, Iowa City, Iowa

Zoltan Mraz, Sophomore, Szigetszentmiklos, Hungary

Bret Muhlbauer, Senior, Carroll, Iowa

Dylan Muhlbauer, Senior, Decorah, Iowa

Isabella Muir, First-year, Owatonna, Minn.

Charles Mullin, Sophomore, Minneapolis, Minn.

Timothy Munce, Sophomore, Andover, Minn.

Francesco Mungari, Sophomore, Rome, Italy

Jacob Murphy, First-year, Fenton, Mich.

Benjamin Murr, Sophomore, St. Paul, Minn.

Zein Mwakitawa, Sophomore, Wilton, N.H.

Rejoice Mzumara, Junior, Pune, India

Leonidas Neel, First-year, Yorkville, Ill.

Milo Neill, Senior, Spring Green, Wis.

Ethan Nelson, Senior, Minneapolis, Minn.

Jacob Nelson, First-year, Clive, Iowa

Beau Newhouse, First-year, Decorah, Iowa

Anh Nguyen, Senior, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Dao Duy Bao Nguyen, Senior, Dong Ha, Vietnam

Hoang Minh Nhat Nguyen, First-year, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Jadelyn Nguyen, First-year, Shakopee, Minn.

Jessie Nguyen, Junior, Bac Ninh, Vietnam

Khanh Linh Nguyen, Junior, Hanoi, Vietnam

Nhi Nguyen, Sophomore, Ha Tinh, Vietnam

Nhi Nguyen, Sophomore, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Phuong Nguyen, Sophomore, Bien Hoa, Vietnam

Tran Nguyen, Sophomore, Hanoi, Vietnam

Tung Nguyen, Senior, Quan Le Chan, Vietnam

Jack Nicolet, First-year, Prior Lake, Minn.

Janik Niggli, Junior, Malans, Switzerland

Lyndee Northrop, First-year, Pine Island, Minn.

Francisco Nsabimana, Senior, Mbabane, Swaziland

Sydney Obaseki, Junior, Abuja, Nigeria

Kate Oelfke, Senior, Austin, Minn.

Cadence Okerman, First-year, New Ulm, Minn.

Sophie Oleson, First-year, McFarland, Wis.

Isabella Oligney-Estill, First-year, Galesburg, Ill.

Ellis Olson, Junior, Yorkville, Ill.

Elliot Olson, Senior, Zumbrota, Minn.

Hailey Olson, First-year, Holmen, Wis.

Kjersten Olson, First-year, Kelley, Iowa

Lily Olson, First-year, Norwalk, Iowa

Ruth Olson, First-year, Stillwater, Minn.

Carisa Oman, First-year, Richland Center, Wis.

Annisten Ondrashek, Sophomore, Calmar, Iowa

Grace Orme, Senior, Seattle, Wash.

Mara Pankow, Senior, Decorah, Iowa

Viktoriia Paripa, Sophomore, Freiburg, Germany

Aditya Paudel, First-year, Kathmandu, Nepal

Mari Paulsen, Senior, St. Paul, Minn.

Faith Pavlos, Junior, Grayslake, Ill.

Lauren Pease, Senior, Grinnell, Iowa

Klaudia Pepin, First-year, River Falls, Wis.

Samuel Persaud, Sophomore, Surrey, Canada

Simon Persson, Sophomore, Horby, Sweden

Norah Petersen, Sophomore, West Bend, Wis.

Blythe Peterson, First-year, Mason City, Iowa

Brooks Peterson, Senior, Minneapolis, Minn.

Nino Pfeifer, Junior, Tillmitsch, Austria

Kyle Pido, Senior, Rochester, Minn.

Callie Pierce, Senior, Dodgeville, Wis.

David Pittman, Sophomore, Johnston, Iowa

Nicholas Porter, First-year, St. Charles, Mo.

Mia Prater, Junior, Superior, Colo.

Leta Prestemon, Junior, Northfield, Minn.

Elizabeth Pritchard, Sophomore, Decorah, Iowa

Rafaela Queiroga Tavares, Senior, Sao Paulo, Brazil

Noah Quijada, Sophomore, Avondale, Ariz.

Devin Quilty, First-year, Mindoro, Wis.

Corwin Radcliff, Junior, Denton, Texas

Yasmin Ramadan, Sophomore, Poughkeepsie, N.Y.

Amelia Ramirez, Senior, Avondale, Ariz.

Gerardo Ramirez Mainou, Junior, San Juan del Rio, Mexico

Isabelle Rand, First-year, Waterloo, Iowa

Marin Rauk, First-year, Spicer, Minn.

Hailey Reckmann, Junior, Lake City, Minn.

Martine Redshaw, Sophomore, Hovland, Minn.

Jacob Reister, Senior, Northfield, Minn.

Samantha Renkas, Sophomore, Holmen, Wis.

Lillian Riedel, Senior, Shoreview, Minn.

Grace Rinehart, First-year, Waukee, Iowa

Pieter Rippentrop, Sophomore, Swisher, Iowa

Percy Rock, First-year, Minneapolis, Minn.

Iris Roddy, Senior, Kansas City, Mo.

Emma Roe, Senior, Red Wing, Minn.

Sophie Rog, Senior, La Madera, N.M.

Matthew Rogness, Senior, Roseville, Minn.

Julia Ronning, First-year, Hastings, Minn.

Grace Rosholt, Senior, Middleton, Wis.

Kelsey Roskamp, Senior, Johnston, Iowa

Erika Roth, First-year, Carver, Minn.

Porter Roth, Junior, Galesburg, Ill.

Johnna Rotto, Senior, Ames, Iowa

Cassie Rounds, Senior, West Des Moines, Iowa

Rylan Ruf, Senior, Clayton, N.M.

Cecilia Ruiz, Senior, Chicago, Ill.

Marissa Rutkowski, Junior, Woodbury, Minn.

Eliana Sackett, Sophomore, Wichita, Kan.

Griffin Sager, First-year, Princeton, Minn.

Matthew Sale, Senior, Kirklees, United Kingdom

Connor Sandman, First-year, La Grange, Ill.

Kenedy Sandoval, Senior, Aurora, Colo.

Kwaku Junior Sarpong, Senior, Duino, Italy

Ansley Schaak, First-year, Sussex, Wis.

Isabel Schall, First-year, Grimes, Iowa

Samuel Scheffler, Senior, Lakeville, Minn.

Annemarie Schloo, Senior, Minneapolis, Minn.

Sydney Schradle, Sophomore, Rice Lake, Wis.

Ashten Schultz, Sophomore, Neillsville, Wis.

Brooklyn Schultz, Sophomore, Sparta, Wis.

Madalyn Schutte, Junior, Pine Island, Minn.

Lauran Schwake, Senior, Solon, Iowa

Bryant Schwegel, First-year, Bagley, Minn.

Logan Schwinghamer, First-year, Zimmerman, Minn.

Gavin Scurr, Senior, San Diego, Calif.

Jonah Sdano, First-year, Madison, Wis.

Arif Seepersaud, Sophomore, Elko New Market, Minn.

Avery Seguin, Sophomore, St. Paul, Minn.

Calista Seiler, Sophomore, Owatonna, Minn.

Korpo Selay, Senior, Montserrado, Liberia

Aubrey Selmecki, First-year, Polk City, Iowa

Seth Semmler, Junior, Circle Pines, Minn.

Julia Severtson, Sophomore, Decorah, Iowa

Julia Sheyko, Senior, Cedar Rapids, Iowa

Maddux Shockey, Junior, Freeport, Ill.

Jeffrey Sieck, Sophomore, Grinnell, Iowa

Pranaya Sigdel, First-year, Kathmandu, Nepal

Jackson Simeck, Junior, Adel, Iowa

Haylee Slotness, Senior, Shoreview, Minn.

Carey Smith, First-year, Centennial, Colo.

Christopher Smith, Junior, Rochester, Minn.

Natalie Smith, Senior, West Des Moines, Iowa

Rianna Solberg, First-year, Minneapolis, Minn.

Benyapa Songnoo, Senior, Thalang, Thailand

Caleb Songstad, Junior, Emmons, Minn.

Lillian Spade, Senior, Eagan, Minn.

Garett Sperber, Senior, Oronoco, Minn.

Eva Stadtlander, Senior, Iowa City, Iowa

Isabelle Staton, Senior, Urbandale, Iowa

Adrian Stauffer, First-year, Minneapolis, Minn.

Brynnen Stefan, Junior, Tomahawk, Wis.

Emma Steffen, First-year, Cresco, Iowa

Ava Stemler, Senior, West Des Moines, Iowa

Grace Stone, Senior, Osceola, Wis.

Kristian Stordalen, Senior, St. Paul, Minn.

Geoffrey Stoughton, Senior, Santa Cruz, Bolivia

Addison Strack, First-year, St. Paul, Minn.

Cato Stracke, First-year, Minneapolis, Minn.

Logan Strom, Senior, Albert Lea, Minn.

Abby Struble, Senior, Clinton, Iowa

Haylie Strum, Senior, Stewartville, Minn.

Elliott Stuenkel, Senior, Waterloo, Iowa

Jaree Summerfield, Sophomore, Opunake, New Zealand

Izaak Swanson, Senior, Bettendorf, Iowa

Ella Swarts, Sophomore, Newton, Iowa

Mackenzie Syvrud, Sophomore, Lake Mills, Wis.

Katherine Szumowski, First-year, Yorkville, Ill.

Olivia Tainter, First-year, Burnsville, Minn.

Ren Talerico, Junior, Madison, Wis.

Vera Tanas, First-year, Coralville, Iowa

Gerjuan Taplin, Junior, Baton Rouge, La.

Muhammad Subhan Tariq, First-year, Faisalabad, Pakistan

Anna Tauscher, Senior, Rochester, Minn.

Chandler Taylor, Sophomore, Cedar Falls, Iowa

Macy Taylor, Senior, Albert Lea, Minn.

Amanda Teske, Senior, De Pere, Wis.

Mia Tessier, Junior, Urbandale, Iowa

Jerald Thompson, First-year, Decorah, Iowa

Ashlynn Thorsen, Senior, Oconomowoc, Wis.

Ebony Tiah, Sophomore, Montezuma, N.M.

Lilly Timm, Junior, Des Moines, Iowa

Hayden Torgerson, Senior, Andover, Minn.

Imani Toso, Sophomore, Holmen, Wis.

Khanh Tran, Junior, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Thuy My An Tran, First-year, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Evan Trenary, First-year, Farmington, Minn.

Nora Tresemer, Junior, Geneva, Ill.

Thu Trinh, Sophomore, Ha Long, Vietnam

Isaac Trowbridge, Junior, Inver Grove, Minn.

Karson Trujillo, Senior, Delano, Minn.

Ryan Truman, Sophomore, Ramona, Calif.

Elias Tsiabardas, Sophomore, Laval, Canada

Tlelepe Tsoako, Sophomore, Qacha’s Nek, Lesotho

Katelyn Ubl, First-year, Winona, Minn.

Kieran Ulbee, Senior, Minneapolis, Minn.

Tova Ulrich, First-year, Inver Grove Heights, Minn.

Ellen Upper, Sophomore, Johnston, Iowa

Katherine Van Deventer, First-year, Lenexa, Kan.

Michael Van Meter, Senior, Delhi, Iowa

Alex Van Surksum, Senior, Sheldon, Iowa

Elliot Vap, First-year, Minneapolis, Minn.

Maria Paula Vega Fallas, Sophomore, San Jose, Costa Rica

Siri Vienneau, First-year, Stoughton, Wis.

Paige Vogel, Sophomore, Mantorville, Minn.

Danica Vsetecka, Junior, Cresco, Iowa

Lily Wahl, First-year, Cadott, Wis.

Regina Waldbillig, Sophomore, Rochester, Minn.

Enya Wallace, Sophomore, Rapid City, S.D.

Lillian Wallace, First-year, Zimmerman, Minn.

Linaea Walsh, Junior, Lombard, Ill.

Anna Walters-Smith, Senior, Rochester, Minn.

Muhammad Mughees Akbar Warraich, Senior, Faisalabad, Pakistan

Caitlin Wayson, First-year, Waterloo, Iowa

Andrew Weidemann, Junior, Dubuque, Iowa

Julia Weigle, Senior, St. Michael, Minn.

Luciana Welsh, Junior, Atlanta, Ga.

Karinna Welter, Junior, Eden Prairie, Minn.

Julia Wendt, Senior, Madison, Wis.

Josiah Wickum, Sophomore, Cedar Rapids, Iowa

Evelyn Wilcox, First-year, Cedar Rapids, Iowa

Olivia Williams, Sophomore, Wheatland, Iowa

Carly Wilson, Sophomore, Hudson, Iowa

Nadia Wingerter, First-year, De Pere, Wis.

Rachel Winzenburg, Sophomore, Blooming Prairie, Minn.

Alexander Wold, Junior, Duluth, Minn.

Sofia Wold, Sophomore, Minneapolis, Minn.

Grace Wolle, Sophomore, Cedar Rapids, Iowa

Ava Wolter, First-year, Plymouth, Minn.

Jenna Woodsmall, Senior, Grimes, Iowa

Adelee Wrightsman, Senior, Madison, Wis.

Charles Wunderlich, Sophomore, Neenah, Wis.

Hugo Zadig, Senior, Stockholm, Sweden

Leen Zaher, Senior, Sebline, Lebanon

Kylie Zeigler, Sophomore, Gilbert, Iowa

Rebecca Zheng, Senior, Waverly, Iowa

Matvii Zhuravlov, Junior, Decorah, Iowa

Nikola Zivadinovic, First-year, Belgrade, Serbia

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Christmas Greetings from Luther College

December 19, 2025 Luther College News

Merry Christmas from all of us at Luther, and may the “winds of hope” surround you! We send you our very best wishes for a happy, safe, loving, and bright time of year.

Watch Luther’s Christmas Video

The 2025 Christmas card features “Winds of Hope” by Steven Amundson ’77, performed by the Luther College combined choirs and symphony orchestra at Christmas at Luther 2025: Fling Wide the Door!

Luther College Provost Pam Bacon applauds at a ceremony.

Created by generous gifts from Luther community members, these endowed roles provide funds for special projects for the recipient.

December 17 2025

A licensed mental health counselor, Joelle Nielsen returns to Luther to lead the Nena Amundson Lifetime Wellness Program.

December 9 2025

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Luther College announces professors selected for endowed chairs, professorships and fellowships

December 17, 2025 Luther College News

Nine Luther College faculty members have been awarded endowed chairs, professorships and fellowships to honor their commitment to teaching and research. Created by generous gifts from Luther community members, these endowed roles provide funds for special projects for the recipient.

The recognition also supports the college’s identity as a community dedicated to academic excellence and the development of well-rounded individuals.

“Every chair, professorship and fellowship has been established to further the mission of Luther, and each reminds us of the college’s commitment to academic excellence and the power of the liberal arts,” said Provost Pam Bacon.

Molly McNicoll, Nena Amundson Distinguished Professorship

Molly McNicoll, associate professor in biology and natural areas manager, will serve as the next Nena Amundson Distinguished Professor.

The Nena Amundson Distinguished Professorship is named in honor of Nena Amundson ’56 (1932-1999), who taught physical education and coached women’s athletics for more than 40 years.

“Many of us are disconnected from nature in our modern society, sometimes only seeing nature as a backdrop or not even noticing it at all. But there is accumulating research and cultural knowledge that indicates we are healthier when we intentionally connect with nature daily,” McNicoll said. “When students connect with nature in my courses, it can be an ‘Aha’ moment of the enjoyment it brings.”

The award is competitive, based on the selection committee’s evaluation of project proposals, particularly those focusing on health and wellness issues for women. McNicoll’s project is titled “Wellness steps through nature.”

“Developing this nature-wellness project will allow us to create more nature connection opportunities for students and the Luther community as a whole,” McNicoll said. “Some of the programming will specifically aim to support women who are interested in developing these connections. Nena Amundson was a trail blazer for women in athletics and this [project] gives our students a wonderful opportunity to benefit from Amundson’s legacy.”

Richard Mtisi, Kermit O. and Jane E. Hanson Professorship in History

Richard Mtisi, associate professor of Africana studies and history, will serve as the next Kermit O. and Jane E. Hanson Professor in History.

The Kermit O. and Jane E. Hanson Professorship in History is named in honor of Kermit O. Hanson ’38 (1916-2010) and Jane E. Hanson ’39 (1916-2010), whose support for the college included an endowment gift to establish the Hanson Professorship. The award recognizes the value of educational opportunities and the quality of the academic program provided by Luther, and in recognition of dedicated faculty in the area of history who influenced the Hansons’ lives and careers.

“It is truly an honor to be recognized as the Hanson Professor of History at Luther,” Mtisi said. “As someone who grew up in a different part of the world, I never dreamed of receiving such an accolade. The recognition reflects not only my own dedication to teaching and research in the field of history but also the inspiration and support of mentors, colleagues, and, perhaps more importantly, the students, who continue to influence my life as a scholar and teacher. I look forward to continuing to advance scholarship in history and to contributing to the mission of Luther through research, teaching and service.”

Guy Nave, Wilford A. Johnson Chair in Biblical Studies

Guy Nave, professor of religion, will serve as the next Wilford A. Johnson Chair in Biblical Studies.

The Wilford A. Johnson Chair in Biblical Studies honors the memory of Wilford A. Johnson and his son, Herbert G. Johnson, in recognition of the value of Christian higher education and the quality of the academic program provided by Luther. The chair was established by the resolution of the Board of Regents in appreciation for the significant support and commitment from its former member Herbert G. Johnson (1911-1992) and his spouse, Katherine G. Johnson (1915-2021), and in recognition of the interests of the donors.

“It’s an honor to receive the Wilford A. Johnson Chair in Biblical Studies,” Nave said. “It seems that we are in a time when scripture is being weaponized in ways to oppress people and that troubles me. I’ve been thinking about ways to help students think about how we can use scripture compassionately in a time of so much despair and to interpret the text to liberate rather than oppress. I appreciate the opportunity to focus on helping the students and our community think about how we use and interpret sacred text.”

Amy Weldon, Dennis M. Jones Chair in the Humanities

Amy Weldon, professor of English and the English department head, will serve as the next Dennis M. Jones Chair in the Humanities.

The Dennis M. Jones Chair in the Humanities, named in honor of Luther Professor of English Dennis M. Jones (1932-1990), is awarded to a member of the faculty who honors the values and traditions of the humanities, enriches the intellectual life of students, and provides academic leadership in the humanities. This was formerly a National Endowment for the Humanities Distinguished Teaching Professorship established through a challenge grant from the NEH and funded during Luther’s Fund for Luther III campaign.

“The Jones Chair appointment is an honor for so many reasons. It represents Luther’s enduring investment in questions of beauty and meaning, and it recognizes how my own writing and teaching try to speak to those issues too,” Weldon said. “It also arrives as I’m beginning my 20th year at Luther, following in the footsteps of English department colleagues who have occupied this position before me. I hope to live up to the example of thoughtful, creative leadership they have set.”

Orçun Selçuk, Rev. John and Barbara Melin Professor in International Studies

Orçun Selçuk, associate professor of political science and international studies program director, will serve as the first Rev. John and Barbara Melin Professor in International Studies. This is a new endowed professorship at Luther.

The Rev. John and Barbara Melin Professorship in International Studies was established by Rev. John Melin ’70 (1947-2024) and Barbara Melin. The award recognizes the critical role the dedicated faculty in the international studies program at Luther play in a globalized world where international concerns impact almost all areas of our lives.

“I am honored to be the inaugural John and Barbara Melin Professor in International Studies,” Selçuk said. “This gift shows the Luther College community’s commitment to global education in politically turbulent times. Luther College is a vibrant place for international education with its course offerings, study abroad programs and student body. I am excited to further contribute to our campus internationalization through this endowed professorship.”

Robert Christman, Martin and Mary Hull Mohr Professorship in Renaissance and Reformation Studies

Robert Christman, professor of history and history department head, will serve as the first Martin and Mary Hull Mohr Professor in Renaissance and Reformation Studies. This is a new endowed professorship at Luther.

The Martin and Mary Hull Mohr Professorship in Renaissance and Reformation Studies was established by former Professors of English Martin Mohr (1928-2019) and Mary Hull Mohr (1934-2021), with additional generous support from former English Professor John C. Bale (1925-2019) and Mabel L. Bale (1925-2008). The award recognizes the strong tradition in the humanities that has characterized Luther from its beginnings, as well as the ways the Renaissance and Reformation continue to shape attempts to define the limits and potentialities of what it is to be human.

“It is a great honor to be selected as the inaugural chair of the Martin and Mary Hull Mohr Professorship in Renaissance and Reformation Studies,” Christman said. “I am delighted by the opportunity to draw attention to this important era of the past that is so deeply embedded in the DNA of Luther College. In particular, I look forward to exploring what the Renaissance and Reformation say about what it means to be human, that enduring question that now, more than ever, is so relevant.”

Jodi Enos-Berlage, Russell R. Rulon Endowed Chair in Biology

Jodi Enos-Berlage, professor of biology, will serve as the next Russell R. Rulon Endowed Chair in Biology.

The Russell R. Rulon Endowed Chair in Biology honors Russell R. Rulon (1936-2016), professor of biology at Luther College from 1963 to 2000, whose teaching and mentoring skills helped numerous students advance to careers in medicine and established Luther’s biology/pre-med program as one of the best among liberal arts colleges. It is awarded to a Luther professor who has demonstrated excellence in teaching biology and dedication to serving as an advisor and mentor to students. The Rulon Endowment was created through the support of colleagues, friends and alumni who were beneficiaries of Rulon’s teaching and mentoring skills. The Rulon Chair will devote part of his/her time to a project that will enhance the training of students in science.

“I am humbled to be the recipient of the Rulon Endowed Chair,” Enos-Berlage said. “I got to know Russ Rulon when I arrived at Luther College in the fall of 2000, and witnessed fellow Biology Professor Wendy Stevens work feverishly to accomplish what many thought was impossible — a $1 million endowment in Russ’s honor. As a farmer, educator, scientist, artist and mother who is driven for impact and positive change, I will use this support to further advance projects aimed at saving soil.

“Soil is the life source, and frankly, it’s in trouble. Specifically, projects will be focused on regenerating soil and community by growing my own knowledge, networks and strengths as well as supporting my students and those who work with, care for, and eat from the soil,” Enos-Berlage said.

“This work ties intimately to my roots growing up on a farm outside of Stockton, Illinois, an upbringing that inspired a love for the natural world and a specific interest in microbiology. I am truly grateful for this opportunity to engage with students, colleagues, and the community to help accelerate the regenerative agriculture movement, a win-win-win for farmers, food eaters and water drinkers,” Enos-Berlage said.

Char Kunkel, Wardell Professorship in Sociology

Char Kunkel, professor of sociology and identity studies department head, will serve as the first Wardell Professor in Sociology. This is a new endowed professorship at Luther.

The Wardell Professorship in Sociology was established through a generous endowment gift by Mark Wardell ’68 (1946-2024). The award was given in appreciation of the quality of the academic program provided by Luther and recognizes the dedicated faculty in sociology.

“I am honored to hold the position because Mark loved sociology and wanted to ensure its continuance at Luther College,” Kunkel said. “In today’s world, there is a great need for a sociological perspective so we can understand what social forces are at play and how to change them.”

Wanda Deifelt, Marilyn Roverud Endowed Fellowship in Lutheran Studies

Wanda Deifelt, professor of religion, received a Marilyn Roverud Endowed Fellowship in Lutheran Studies.

The Marilyn Roverud Endowed Fellowship in Lutheran Studies was established by the Roverud Family in celebration of Luther College’s namesake, Martin Luther, and in honor of the inspired leadership of Marilyn (Haugen) Roverud ’66, alumna, regent, synod volunteer, patron of the arts, friend and more.

As a liberal arts institution and college of the church, Luther embraces a way of learning described by Lutheran studies scholar Darrell Jodock as the “third way”: “committed to academic freedom to seek the truth, respectful of other faith traditions and disciplined to seek whatever will truly serve the needs of the neighbor and make the world more trustworthy.” It is the Roverud family’s intent that this fellowship serve as a catalyst for lively and informed discussion about what it means to be a college of the church.

Deifelt’s fellowship research proposal focuses on Martin Luther’s embodied political theology and addresses how his marriage to Katharina von Bora and the Peasants’ Revolt, both in 1525, shaped his views of vocation.

“One of Martin Luther’s greatest theological contributions was his understanding of vocation — a call to live faithfully and ethically, seeking the well-being of a world in need,” Deifelt said. “With his marriage, Luther reclaimed everyday life as part of divine creation and a way to serve God, thus placing the vocation of a parent as important as that of a priest. With the Peasants’ Revolt, Luther fell short in grasping the complexities of a changing society and failed to acknowledge the needs of the peasantry. The unifying thread between these two events is that of vocation itself, that is, how a Christian is constantly discerning God’s call to be an instrument of love and peace.”

Each fall, Luther College announces the recipients of endowed chairs, professorships and fellowships. This year, the announcement was part of Opening Convocation on Sept. 4, 2025, in the Center for Faith and Life Main Hall.

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Christmas at Luther 2025 available for streaming Dec. 12-Jan. 2

December 10, 2025 Luther College News

Enjoy Luther College’s Christmas at Luther 2025 from the comfort of your home through video-on-demand streaming starting Friday, Dec. 12.

Collegiate Chorale member sings at a Christmas at Luther 2025 performance.

Video-on-demand tickets may be purchased online at tickets.luther.edu. Each video-on-demand ticket has a unique link and is emailed to the ticket holder after purchase. The ticketholder has the option to watch a full-length version of the performance, which includes all musical selections, narrations and audience hymns, at a date and time that’s convenient during the hectic holiday season. On-demand streaming is available through Jan. 2.

Each year, Christmas at Luther features a different theme and music, performed by hundreds of Luther student musicians, including multiple choirs, the Luther College Symphony Orchestra, organ and Brass Ensemble.

This year’s theme is “Fling Wide the Door!” and the theme’s inspiration comes from a hymn of the same name.

“As Christ calls us to welcome the stranger, the hymn reminds us not to observe restraint and peer through a cracked door. Rather, we open the doors enthusiastically and without caution to celebrate the arrival of the birth of Christ,” said Andrew Last, artistic director of Christmas at Luther and director of choral activities for Luther College.

Broadcast Options Available

Once again, the broadcast edition of Christmas at Luther will be seen across the Midwest on a collection of broadcast and streaming partners. In addition to the traditional broadcast outlets returning this year, a shortened version of Christmas at Luther 2025 will be available on Mediacom’s local programming channel MC22 to Mediacom subscribers. Check local listings for the air time. Christmas at Luther will also be available for Mediacom internet customers through Mediacom’s streaming platform.

Selections from “Fling Wide the Door!” will be broadcast by local television stations on the following dates and times:

KIMT Rochester, Minnesota/Mason City, Iowa: Dec. 25, 5 a.m.
KGAN CBS 2.2/FOX 28 Cedar Rapids, Iowa: Dec. 27, 5 p.m.
KTIV Sioux City, Iowa: Dec. 25, 3 p.m.
WOWT Omaha, Nebraska.: Dec. 28, 11 a.m.
KAIT Jonesboro, Arkansas: Dec. 25, 6 a.m.
KFTA Fayetteville, Arkansas: Dec. 25, 7 a.m.

The Twin Cities PBS (TPT) will broadcast a special presentation of the Christmas at Luther 2024 on the following channels and times:

TPT LIFE: Dec. 20, 8 p.m.
TPT LIFE: Dec. 21, 2 a.m.
TPT 2: Dec. 24, 10:30 p.m.
TPT 2: Dec. 25, 4:30 a.m.
TPT 2: Dec. 25, 1 p.m.

In addition, a Christmas at Luther 2025 recording may be heard on Wisconsin Public Radio (WPR) Music at 8 a.m. on Dec. 24 and 3 p.m. on Dec. 25. The recording is also streamed on wpr.org.

Portions of “Fling Wide the Door!” will be aired on select radio stations. These radio stations include:

KCCK 88.3 FM, Cedar Rapids, Iowa: Dec. 17, 6 p.m.
KCZQ 102.3, Cresco, Iowa: Dec. 23, 4 p.m. and Dec. 24, 1 p.m.
WVRQ 1360 AM, Viroqua, Wisconsin: Dec. 25, 9 a.m.

The dates and times of these broadcasts are subject to change. Check local listings to confirm the broadcast schedule.

student-athlete holds up photo and smiles at camera

“Thank you for investing in our student-athletes and the Gerdin Fieldhouse,” said Athletic Director Megan Wilson.

November 24 2025

Gerdin Fieldhouse for Athletics and Wellness at Luther College

Luther College’s sixth annual One Team Day is Thursday, Nov. 20. “It marks an exciting milestone in the Gerdin Fieldhouse renovation,” said Amanda Bailey, head women’s basketball coach. “You’ve seen the progress and construction all year. Now, we’re inviting the entire Luther community to help us finish this project strong.”

November 14 2025

Luther College Ticket Office

Ticket Office Hours:
Monday-Friday 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Thursday 9 a.m. – 7 p.m.

Show Day Hours:
9 a.m. – performance
Saturdays 1 p.m. – performance

Mail:
Luther College Ticket Office
Center for Faith & Life
700 College Dr
Decorah, Iowa 52101

tickets@luther.edu

Phone: 563-387-1357

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Joelle Nielsen named director of student well-being

December 9, 2025 Luther College News

Luther College Dean of Students Julie Thornton announced that Joelle Nielsen, a 2005 Luther graduate and former member of the college’s counseling staff, has been named the college’s director of student well-being.

Joelle Nielsen

A licensed mental health counselor, Nielsen returns to Luther to lead the Nena Amundson Lifetime Wellness Program and serve as the liaison to the Luther Clinic. Most recently, Nielsen was working with Counseling Associates of Northeast Iowa.

“We are thrilled to have Joelle back at Luther,” Thornton said. “Her demeanor and expertise are exactly what we need to grow our student life team and further build momentum on supporting students’ lives at Luther.”

At Counseling Associates, Nielsen managed outpatient mental health counseling for children, adolescents and adults. She also collaborated with the Decorah Community School District to provide school-based counseling.

“I have always loved working with college students and I am so excited to be back at Luther in this role and to be joining the awesome student life team,” Nielsen said.

In her role, Nielsen will serve as the primary mental health information resource to the Luther community. She will manage the relationship with external entities that support Luther students’ health needs, such as the Luther Clinic and Uwill, the college’s student telehealth provider. She will lead a wellness educator team made up of two staff members and multiple student wellness ambassadors. Nielsen will also coordinate and provide one-on-one support for students, partnering with staff in student life and student success, ensuring a sustainable circle of care, and in some cases, serving as a bridge for students seeking in-person or virtual integrated behavioral health.

In her previous role at Luther, Nielsen was a part of the college’s counseling services unit for five years. Completing her master’s degree in community counseling at Minnesota State University, Mankato, she worked for Northeast Iowa Behavioral Health following graduate school.

“Joelle’s past work experiences, particularly her time at Luther, makes her return to us so special. She is a particularly perfect fit for us right now,” Thornton said. “We needed someone to jump right in and hit the ground running. In just one week, Joelle is already making a big impact for Luther students and my team.”

Nielsen joined the student life team on Monday, Dec. 1.

The Board of Regents approved the Torson gift to provide Gerdin Fieldhouse challenge funding, enrollment marketing funding, leadership development initiatives, and support for the Luther Fund.

December 1 2025

“Thank you for investing in our student-athletes and the Gerdin Fieldhouse,” said Athletic Director Megan Wilson.

November 24 2025

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$2.2 million Torson estate gift is a ‘catalyst’ for Luther College

December 1, 2025 Luther College News

The estate of the late Judith (Lueder) Torson ’62 and Doug Torson recently provided Luther College with a gift of $2.2 million. Not only is the amount significant, but so is its purpose.

Doug and Judith (Lueder) Torson

“This gift is truly going to serve as a catalyst,” said Mary Duvall, vice president for advancement. “The Torsons’ generosity will inspire more generosity, help our enrollment team reach more prospective students, and help our new leaders become even better, therefore maximizing their impact.”

The reason for this gift’s far-reaching impact is that it was made without any restrictions, said Duvall. “The Torsons’ gift was not only financial but also strategic, in so far as we can use it for the most impact right now.”

The Luther College Board of Regents has approved the Torson gift to provide Gerdin Fieldhouse challenge funding, enrollment marketing funding, leadership development initiatives, and support for the Luther Fund.

“I am grateful for the many partners that enable Luther to enact its mission to inspire and equip students to courageously serve the common good, and to realize its vision to catalyze the creation of a more sustainable and just society, one graduate at a time,” said President Brad Chamberlain. “This unrestricted gift from the Torsons is truly a blessing, and it leaves a legacy that will catalyze the belief, pride, and hope in Luther College that I see building on and off campus.”

A native of West Union, Iowa, Judy Torson majored in elementary education at Luther. Upon graduating in 1962, she launched a 30-year teaching career at Cleveland and Pierce Elementary Schools in Cedar Rapids. She married Douglas Archie Torson in 1967, a Coe College graduate who pursued a career at Collins Radio, the Cedar Rapids School District, Metropolitan School Supply, and as a business owner. They were members of First Lutheran Church in Cedar Rapids. Doug died on Nov. 5, 2020, followed by Judy on Aug. 29, 2024.

Family friend Brenda Short remembers the Torsons as “very fun-loving, giving, and into their church.” They had a close friendship with Short’s parents, playing cards and games, often spending Christmas Eve together, and even going on vacations together. “They didn’t have any children, so I think it was nice for them,” said Short. In addition, Short noted that Judy loved Luther, and she treasured a collection of memorabilia from her student years.

Judy had two younger siblings who also graduated from Luther. Her brother, Kenneth A. Lueder ’65, died in 1989; a scholarship in mathematics was established at Luther through a gift from his estate. Her sister, Barbara Lueder, graduated from Luther in 1970 and also pursued a career in education. She currently lives in Coralville, Iowa, and provides scholarship support to Luther through both current giving and an estate gift. Her niece, Karla (Lueder) Organist ’84, continued in the tradition as an elementary education major at Luther.

“Estate gifts like the Torsons’ are expressions of deep trust in the college’s future,” said Kelly Sorenson, director of planned giving. “They strengthen every corner of campus — from the classroom to programs — and ensure that Luther students continue to experience the kind of education that changes lives. We are profoundly grateful for donors who choose to leave such meaningful legacies.”

To learn more about planned giving, visit legacygiving.luther.edu.

“Thank you for investing in our student-athletes and the Gerdin Fieldhouse,” said Athletic Director Megan Wilson.

November 24 2025

November 14 2025

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Through extraordinary support, One Team Day raises nearly $593,000

November 24, 2025 Luther College News

A total of $592,631 was raised during Luther College’s sixth annual One Team Day on Thursday, Nov. 20, making the event the most successful one in the college’s history.

Launched in 2020, One Team Day is a 24-hour campaign to support student-athletes at Luther College.

“My initial reaction was disbelief — this level of support is extraordinary,” said Athletic Director Megan Wilson. “But if any place could rise to the moment, it’s Luther. The pride people hold for this institution continues to amaze me. One Team Day is truly representative of competition, character and our community.”

Launched in 2020, One Team Day is a 24-hour campaign to support student-athletes, celebrate Norse spirit and highlight the importance of athletics and student-athletes within the Luther community.

Along with supporting their favorite teams, as they have done in the past, Luther invited community members to support the $24 million Gerdin Fieldhouse renovation project as part of the 2025 One Team Day event.

The daylong event concluded with the One Team Day Happy Hour for Luther alumni, parents, coaches, and fans of Norse athletics at Impact Coffee, 101 Water St. Many people attended the free event sponsored by Impact Coffee and stayed for Impact Trivia, hosted by Luther student-athletes, following the happy hour.

Wilson expressed her gratitude to the One Team Day supporters.

“Thank you for your generosity. Thank you for investing in our student-athletes and the Gerdin Fieldhouse. One Team Day and the renovation project are truly transformational for the student-athlete experience,” Wilson said.

November 14 2025

Supported by the Williams Endowment Fund, the day begins with Curry’s address at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, Jan. 19, 2026, in the Center for Faith and Life Main Hall.

November 14 2025

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