ON THE COVER Junior business major Marcus Stone leads the new TLU Drumline.The Drumline joins a long list of musical opportunities for both music majors and non-music majors who just love music. PHOTO BY JOAN MEREDITH SNOW.

THIS PAGE Students participate in an experiential workshop to process the emotions of hate and hope.The fall workshop preceded the 27th annual Krost Symposium,“The Creative Journey of the Heart: Hate, Tolerance, Forgiveness, Hope.” PHOTO BY DUSTIN WYATT.

Winter 2007 | Table of Contents

2 From the President 19 Growing and Giving Celebrating the gift of music Muellers pledge $1 million

3 Notable & Quotable 21 Lucky’s Pack Heard here and there Alumni events

4 TLU Today 22 Homecoming 2006 What’s going on at TLU 23 AlumNotes 8 In the News The latest on TLU alumni The reality of Facebook 32 Catching Up With 10 Music – Rick Flores, band director The Soul of TLU It is and always has been a vital 34 First Person part of life at Texas Lutheran Confessions of a non-music major 14 Faculty Q&A Composer, professor, alumnus 36 Remember When Take a trip down memory lane 15 Applause Accomplishments lauded 37 Happenings What’s coming up at TLU 16 Scoreboard Catch up on the sports scene

AlumNotes • Torch Winter 2007 | 1

FROM THE PRESIDENT From the President Dr. Jon N. Moline The mission of Texas Lutheran Celebrating the gift of music University is us near to the infinite.” to prepare The very attempt to dictate musical undergraduates norms can backfire. During Stalin’s Music is arguably academically, bloodiest purges in the late 1930s the most effective spiritually the Fourth Symphony of Dmitri Shostakovitch was attacked in Pravda, “emotional language for and socially in the party newspaper. Such an attack a residential could be a prelude to imprisonment communicating across community In this issue of the Torch we or execution. So Shostakovitch quickly barriers of all sorts. of faith and celebrate the gift of music. It is a composed his Fifth Symphony and learning for powerful gift. Plato thought it so entitled it “The Response of a Soviet powerful that it could subvert any Composer to Just Criticism.” It is So did the writer Boris Pasternak, service and existing culture or constitution, and brassy, militaristic in places, and who exclaimed, “He said everything, leadership. so he advised controlling it to exploit carefully written to end on the and nobody did anything to him!” the good effects it could have and politically correct optimistic note. Stalin’s minions weren’t very good at avoid the bad. It even includes one of Stalin’s favorite understanding the speech of angels! As in all authoritarian proposals, folk-tunes. Felix Mendelssohn once remarked, the catch is in who gets to decide what Shostakovitch was spared as a “It’s not that music is too imprecise is good or bad. Many dictators and result, although many western critics for words, but too precise.” Music is their minions have tried to reserve this thought that this symphony showed arguably the most effective emotional power to themselves by censoring and he had become a political hack. But language for communicating across even prescribing music. That is akin to had he? Did the angels speak over the barriers of all sorts – cultural, linguistic, trying to give the angels orders about heads of the censors? Recent critics ideological, and even religious. what to say or not say. Thomas Carlyle and interpreters have suggested that TLU is blessed with a strong music once remarked that “Music is well said they did – with irony, sarcasm, and program, and this shows most vividly to be the speech of angels; in fact, caricature. They take the composer every year in the Christmas Vespers. nothing among the utterances allowed to have been subtly mocking, not The music speaks to the soul. Thanks to man is felt to be so divine. It brings flattering, Stalin and his goons. be to God for the gift of music! I

STAFF

Editor and Senior Writer Editorial Advisory Board Kathy (Walter) Hughes ’73 Stephen Anderson ’77 Director of Communications Senior Vice President for University Relations Founded in 1891,Texas Lutheran University Gail Randle Art Director and Designer offers degrees in 39 academic disciplines and Director of Alumni Relations pre-professional programs.The university is Yoshiko Okano Guy Susan Rinn located in Seguin, near San Antonio, and is a Director of Publications Assistant Vice President for University Relations university of the Evangelical Lutheran Church Sports Editor in America. Stephen Skinner Tim Clark ’94 Development Writer and Prospect Researcher Texas Lutheran University admits students of Director of Sports Information any race, color, or national or ethnic origin to all rights, privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the university. The Torch, the magazine of Texas Lutheran University, is published by the University Relations Member of the Council for the Advancement Office of Texas Lutheran University and is distributed without cost to alumni and friends of and Support of Education (CASE). the university. Please address all correspondence and address corrections to Torch,Texas Lutheran University, 1000 W. Court St., Seguin,Texas 78155. 830-372-8020, www.tlu.edu. 2 | Texas Lutheran University “

Notable & Quotable

“If you have a university where there is dissent – a “You know you are a member of the Golden Group if Members of MASA difference of opinion – thank God! Then you have you can remember when this place was known as the perform a number growth.” Chapel of the Required Presence – and you really, from “Grease” at the really, really know if people have forgotten your Bulldog Revue during – Dr. Carmen Tafolla, well-known author and TLU alumna, homecoming. reputation and invite you back to speak in this discussing Texas Lutheran during a presentation to the chapel.” Mexican American Student Association (MASA) – The Rev. Ron Birk ’56 during Homecoming Chapel services at the Chapel of the Abiding Presence “This may sound like an annual echo, but Texas Lutheran University is good… the consistency speaks volumes about not only the university as it is now, “It’s kind of an eye-opener.” but its unwavering commitment to welcoming – Alicia Davis, junior psychology major, commenting on the students and sending them back out into the world first African-American Leadership Conference at TLU and not only smarter – but better people in general.” how it facilitates students learning more about leadership – From an editorial in the Seguin Gazette Enterprise, and what it’s like to be an African American on campus Wednesday Sept. 6, 2006 “It was very diverse. There were women wearing “You should know and learn as much as you possibly head scarves and others that were not. Some people can. At this time in your life you have the capacity to had very little education and others we met could do this. Always be skeptical when someone tells you speak seven different languages. Some of the people you don’t really need to know something. You never were very friendly and others were a little hostile.” know when you may need this knowledge.” – Samantha Bryant, junior English major, in her blog – Opening Convocation speaker Dr. Neal Pellis, NASA’s describing her impressions of Morocco during a trip she associate director of the Human Research Program, took while studying abroad in Granada, Spain. Read more challenging the student body from student blogs at www.tlu.edu. “ Notable & Quotable • Torch Winter 2007 | 3 ”

TLU TODAY

Physics major Joseph Panzarella participates in functional neuroscience and medical physics research at the Research Imaging Center of the UT Health Science Center in San Antonio. His focus was on an automated blood activity sampler system required to quantify cerebral blood flow rates in subjects undergoing PET scans. Summer research was funded by an AT&T fellowship and the Budwine Foundation. TLU receives overall quality among degree programs in the liberal students at 361 top colleges undergraduate colleges in the arts and sciences and in responded to a survey by recognition Western United States. professional fields such as the Princeton Review, and The annual study evaluat- business and education. the Web site www.princeton- For the 23rd year, TLU ed TLU in the “comprehen- To determine the quality review.com features student has been listed in the U.S. sive colleges – bachelors” rankings, U.S. News opinion data. Princeton News & World Report college division, which ranks compares statistical data Review reported that TLU’s rankings as one of the nation’s regional schools with a regarding student selectivity students said that the uni- best regional comprehensive comprehensive focus on and retention, class size and versity’s instructors prioritize colleges. In this year’s report, undergraduate education graduation rate, faculty teaching and monitor student TLU was tied for fifth in and that offer a range of resources, financial resources, progress to “make sure that alumni giving rate, and every individual in the class academic reputation among is learning.” Dr. Gerhardt honored peer institutions. TLU was one of 21 Texas For the fourth consecutive schools receiving the Best in year, Princeton Review has the West designation. named Texas Lutheran a Dr. Ray Gerhardt was “Best College in the Western remembered at home- Region” in recognition of TLU Salutes coming when a tree TLU’s quality education. was planted on campus The Princeton Review, one honors 2006 in his honor. His wife, Anita, his children, and of the nation’s most respected inductees grandson (pictured), and popularcollege admis- joined the TLU commu- sions resource organizations, A college president, a nity and Guadalupe reported that “Texas Lutheran noted author, and a young County Democrats to University fits an attractive doctor were among those honor his memory. Doc academic niche, offering recognized at the 2006 TLU Gerhardt,TLU history broad department strengths Salues Award Banquet during professor from 1959- 1994, died Nov. 10, with a light coating of homecoming weekend. 2004. religious education.” TLU President Dr. Jon N. Approximately 115,000 Moline presented Dr. Wayne

4 | Texas Lutheran University

TLU TODAY TT A WY

The Molines are surprised at the Excellence In Leadership Dinner with the announcement by Linda and Ed Whitacre that for more information O BY DUSTIN AT&T is giving a lead gift of $250,000 toward the naming of T about giving to Center the “Jon and Sandra Moline Center for Servant Leadership.” PHO for Servant Leadership.

ate and returned to serve as Violence Shelter and CASA. the first director of the TLU Dr. Stephanie Dove- Mexican-American Studies Cudjoe was awarded TLU’s Center. She held faculty and Outstanding Young Graduate administrative positions at Award. several universities and is Dove-Cudjoe, a 2001 now a full-time author. graduate, earned a doctor of Tafolla communicates a medicine degree from the clear, vibrant sense of University of Texas Chicano identity, culture and Southwestern Medical School history through her published in Dallas in 2005, and is a books of poetry, scripts, short resident in family practice at 2006 TLU Salutes honorees included Barbara Effenberger, Dr.Wayne stories, children’s books, and the Baylor Medical Clinic in Powell, Dr. Carmen Tafolla, and Dr. Stephanie Dove-Cudjoe. her one-woman show that she Garland. She is active in her has performed worldwide. church and in the Student Powell, president of Lenoir- Rhyne. In October 2002, he Barbara Effenberger National Medical Association, Rhyne College, with TLU’s was named the college’s 11th received the TLU a community service organi- prestigious Distinguished president. Community Service Award. A zation focused on increasing Alumni Award. In selecting him for this 1961 graduate of TLU, health awareness in the The TLU Distinguished honor, the TLU Board of Effenberger was a school African-American community Alumni Award is given to Regents cited Powell’s counselor in Seguin. and supporting medical alumni who have, in the “outstanding record of Since retiring, she has students of African heritage. judgment of the university’s achievement and service in served in the Texas Silver- Board of Regents, established higher education, both as a Haired Legislature and as a outstanding professional respected scholar and delegate to the 2005 White records of success or professor of mathematics, House Conference on Aging, distinction in their chosen and as a dedicated and chaired the advisory council careers. effective administrator.” of the Retired Senior Powell, a 1971 TLU Moline also presented Volunteer Program, and graduate, was a professor, Dr. Carmen Tafolla, noted volunteered at area nursing associate dean and dean at author, educational consult- homes. Oklahoma State University ant, and scholar in bilingual She is the long-time chair before moving to Hickory, studies with the Distinguished of the Guadalupe County N.C., where he was named Alumni Award. Democratic Party, is active vice president and dean for After beginning college at with the Women of the ELCA, academic affairs at Lenoir- TLU, she earned her doctor- and works with the Family

TOP: TLU Athletics Hall of Fame inductees were Kent Richter, Jessica Szymanski, Lief Larson, Richard Gregory, and Charles McMahon. BOTTOM: Receiving the TLU Athletics Wall of Honor award were the Charles Koehler family - Greg, Barbara, Jackie, Charlie, Jeff, and Nancy - and Calvin Vann.

TLU Today • Torch Winter 2007 | 5

TLU TODAY

Speakers at the 27th annual Krost Symposium included, left to right, Dr. Jim Hopper, psychologist and Research Fellow at McLean Hospital and Harvard Medical School; Rev. David Doerfler, founder and facilitator of Concentric Journeys; Dr. Denise Menchaca, independent researcher, writer and performer; and Chris Pramuk, theologian, musician, and author.

TLU Athletics Hall of Fame and total blocks. Church Service Award in travel halfway around the Athletic director Bill 1989. world to attend the university. Miller joined Moline in TLU Athletics Wall of Honor Miller pointed out that But Aida Sopa, Bukurje presenting the 2006 Class of The Athletics Leadership Vann has probably been to Zeqiri, Drenushe Bislimi and inductees into the TLU Wall of Honor recognizes more TLU athletics contests Getoar Mjeku are not your Athletics Hall of Fame and people who have contributed in the last 10 years than any typical TLU students. the Athletics Leadership Wall to the success of the universi- other Bulldog fan, taking These four students of Honor. ty’s athletics program outside thousands of pictures that he came to TLU in August The Athletics Hall of the realm of intercollegiate has shared with TLU and its from Kosovo on Education Fame is reserved to honor athletic competition. The fans, parents, and players. for Peace Scholarships the highest achievement in Class of 2006 includes the established by the Bislimi intercollegiate athletics by Charles Koehler family, Elmer Alum enables Group, founded by Faton former Bulldog student-ath- Luckenbach, and Calvin other Kosovars Tony Bislimi last year. letes and coaches, and this Vann. A 2005 TLU graduate, year five former Bulldog ath- The Koehler family was to attend TLU Bislimi earned a B.S. in letes were inducted. recognized for its outstanding computer science and a B.A. Named to the Athletics citizenship and dedicated Most TLU students have in math, graduating summa Hall of Fame were Richard service to the community. more than a two-day notice cum laude. He says he came Gregory ’54, who started all Charlie and Jackie Koehler that they are leaving for to this country from Kosovo four years in both football and their four children – college. And most do not with nothing, but God guided and baseball; Lief Larson ’84, Steve, Greg, Nancy and Jeff – the only two-time winner of have individually and collec- the Eddy Award, given for tively donated countless uncommon leadership and hours to civic causes and excellence on the football have made generous financial field and in the classroom; contributions to support the Charlie McMahon ’59, an All- work of many charitable American who signed with organizations, including TLU. the Denver Broncos; Kent Luckenbach, a football Richter ’69, who lettered in player at TLU in the 1940s, track and field and football has been a faithful supporter all four years; and Jessica of the Bulldogs ever since. (Gaytan) Szymanski ’95, who His many years of dedicated lettered four years in volley- Christian service to the ball and continues as career elderly were recognized with leader in total games played the TLU Distinguished

New international students arrive on campus to begin the 2006-2007 academic year. Among them are four students from Kosovo, recipients of the Education for Peace Scholarships established by the Bislimi Group.

6 | Texas Lutheran University

TLU TODAY

During Greek Week,TLU “Greek gods and goddesses” competed in a Bulldog spirit contest. Pictured are students Christina Martinez, Leo Aguilar, Laura Townsend, Phil Bush, and Ashley Boyd. his way to TLU, and he is Scholarships, there was a place that has had a war and first African American now a Kennedy Fellow at learning curve. Problems in now it really needs people – Leadership Conference Harvard University’s JFK obtaining visas caused the reformed people – who can organized by students School of Government. students to know only two bring something new to belonging to DIVERSE “Am I satisfied though? days before they had to leave Kosovo,” she said. (Driven Individuals Valuing No. Just as my dreams came that they were actually going Bislimi trusts that TLU is Respect and Support true, my faith grew. And I to be able to go to TLU. making a difference in the Everywhere). kept asking for more – not “That’s a very short time lives of the four students, and Held on campus Oct. 20- for me, but for other sheep to prepare your things and that as they study at TLU, 21, 2006, the conference was out there in my beloved say goodbye,” Sopa said. they will be prepared to help organized by students to Kosovo,” Bislimi said. Despite the difficulty in produce a better future for provide serious leadership So through the Bislimi coming, the students from Kosovo. information on issues con- Group and Texas Lutheran Kosovo were delighted to be “In our Lord’s service, I cerning the African-American University, two full scholar- able to study at an American believe we are helping build student community. ships and two half scholar- university. a generation of leaders for a A variety of speakers ships are being given each “That’s one of the greatest newly born country – a addressed the group, year to students from dreams of every student in generation that will lead including TLU alumni Kosovo. The Bislimi Group Kosovo,” Sopa said. “We are Kosovo into becoming a true Demetrius Hardeman ’05 is responsible for finding the the lucky ones.” democracy and an open and and Stephanie Mitchell most promising students, “I would like to go back progressive society in Crimiel ’92, and representa- who must go through a to Kosovo and do something Europe,” he said. “TLU is tives from Texas State rigorous selection process in for my country,” Sopa said, making a difference in Kosovo University, 100 Black Men of Kosovo before TLU makes echoing the sentiments of all in the best way possible, and San Antonio, and 100 Black the final selection. four students to return to Kosovars will be thankful Women of San Antonio. Since this is the first year their homeland to make it a forever.” The luncheon keynote for the Education for Peace better place. “Kosovo is a speaker was Darren Dunn, operations manager for African KWED radio and immediate American past president of the Seguin Area Chamber of Commerce. Leadership The DIVERSE student Conference group was organized and developed by the Center Alumni, faculty, students for Servant Leadership. and community members Dr. Maria Avalos and came together last fall to be Dr. Bonita Vinson also a part of Texas Lutheran’s assisted in the conference. I

TLU alumnus Demetrius Hardeman ’05, special agent with the IRS, was the opening speaker at the first African American Leadership Conference held in October at TLU.

TLU Today• Torch Winter 2007 | 7

IN THE NEWS

HINGS ARE DIFFERENT ON dating, or where the party is happening. page is larger. A site usually includes a profile and Facebook and social sites like it are a CAMPUS TODAY. pictures posted by the owner or others reality throughout society today, and it is OH, STUDENTS STILL GO TO T who have tagged the site by posting no different on Texas Lutheran’s campus. CLASS. THEY STUDY AND WRITE photos on it. And there is also wallpaper Dean of Student Life and Learning PAPERS. THEY COMPLAIN ABOUT THE where visitors to the site communicate Kristi Quiros ’85 says that Facebook is a and write thoughts and comments – hot button issue everywhere. She FOOD AND PARKING. CHAPEL IS STILL good or bad, true or false – sort of a explains that it has both positive and AT 10 A.M. ON MWF, AND STUDENTS dialogue that is open to anyone else negative aspects. “It is a great way for STILL SOMETIMES SLEEP THROUGH THEIR visiting the site. students to connect with those who 8 O’CLOCK CLASSES. BUT TODAY THEY Until recently, Facebook has been have similar interests or to keep up with limited. It was created two years ago to friends who are at other schools. But COMMUNICATE DIFFERENTLY. AND give college students an environment sometimes there seems to be a disconnect THAT’S REALITY. where they could share information, but with students when they put information also have control over who they shared on sites such as Facebook. They don’t It’s called social networking. Students information with. A college e-mail think about it being available world- use online communities like Facebook address was needed to set up a page wide.” and MySpace as a link to their friends, initially. This year, for the first time, TLU’s new schedules, and daily lives. Some TLU Facebook has expanded to allow student orientation included information students check these sites 8-10 times a others into the site – at first those about social networking sites – things to day – maybe more. It is how they keep invited in as friends – and then the site remember like safety and access. “We in touch with friends, know when a grew to allow high school students and remind students that employers check group is meeting, or know what other businesses groups in as well. There are out applicants for jobs or internships, so students are saying or up to. It is a way still controls, but it also means that the they should consider how they are to know when to meet for dinner, who’s number of potential viewers of a student’s portraying themselves,” Quiros says.

8 | Texas Lutheran University

“I tell students to ask themselves if they students to wait until they arrive on Student Organization, all have Facebook TLU freshman would want their grandmother to see campus and meet each other personally members and communicate everything Amandine Miller of this.” before requesting a roommate change. If from elections to pizza parties and New Braunfels relaxes Social networking starts well before changes do occur, it is usually after fall meetings on the site. Others, including in the Alumni Student Center between college. Quiros says that there are fresh- semester when students may change to the “Wal-Mart – The Most Exciting Place classes. She says that men who come to school and they’ve be with a new friend rather than avoid in Seguin” group and “I Swim to Class social networking sites already chatted online with everyone on someone based on an online profile. When It Rains,” may just want a place to are a good way to their floor – they have a head start on Although it isn’t the official or only complain. keep up with friends meeting people. But there are also those means to communicate with students, Quiros explained that TLU adminis- on other college who are not happy with what they’ve more and more professors and trators do not prowl the Internet as campuses. found when they Googled their future organizations are using Facebook to some schools have tried, but do follow roommate or looked him or her up on reach students. up on any complaints. She explained Facebook or MySpace. She says they Dr. Phil Ruge-Jones, associate that social networking sites can have don’t realize that what they read or see professor of theology, says that his site is negative aspects, including cyber may not be true. a small way to let his students know he bullying, where a student is sent “Before they get to know someone, cares about the things that they do. It is hateful, harassing or threatening mail. before they even e-mail, much less call or also another way to connect with These instances, although rare, do talk to someone face-to-face, they are students less formally and have some happen. judging an individual by his or her profile fun with the students. For example, he “Social networking is a reality. We and deciding they want to change room- says he posted a picture of himself in are just starting to learn about it and mates. However, I try to remind them his uncool, Napoleon Dynamite high figure out how to make it work for us that getting to know people who are school graduation suit. as a community and have it work for different than you is an important part Forty-nine TLU groups (and growing our students. It can be a positive thing, of the college experience.” daily,) from the Betas to the Student as long as people remember to use it Quiros says that residence life asks Government Association to the Catholic safely and responsibly.” I

In the News • Torch Winter 2007 | 9

Music – The Soul of TLU

10 | Texas Lutheran University

When dozens of alumni choir members joined with the current TLU choir in singing “Beautiful Savior” at homecoming last September, tears of emotion and a shared love of music melded the past and present. Whether from the organ, band or voice, music continues to touch the lives of Texas Lutheran students, instilling a sense of community that becomes a large part of the college experience. Music is – and always has been – a vital part of life at Texas Lutheran.

y including music in the liberal and then received two B.A. degrees from music degree in 2002 and created the arts curriculum, TLU ensures that Texas Lutheran… I feel at home at TLU. School of Music in 2004, demonstrating B all students have an opportunity I am incredibly fortunate to work with the university’s commitment to the music to experience music and all it has such wonderful students, such brilliant program – not only to its future, but also to offer. Each student is required to take educational colleagues from all disciplines recognizing the university’s rich musical six semester hours of the arts as part of and such amazing staff,” he said. traditions. Thousands of students who the dimensions of liberal education Dr. John Masterson, executive vice have attended Texas Lutheran have requirement. While the arts can include president and provost, praised the music participated in the choir or band, and courses in dramatic media or fine art, program. “It is the soul and voice of thousands of others have been enriched many students choose to fulfill the TLU,” he said. “Often the first contact by their performances. requirement with music classes. the public has with the university is While TLU prepares some students “The study of music at TLU provides through the choir or band.” to pursue a career in performing, many the opportunity to create, define, In recognition of that importance, more find their calling in education as communicate and, ultimately, add deep TLU began offering the bachelor of music teachers, band directors, or meaning to the lives of our students,” said Dr. Douglas R. Boyer, associate professor and director of the TLU School of Music. Boyer came to TLU in 2001 following the retirement of Dr. Sigurd Christiansen, who had been a fixture as TLU choir director for 30 years. A 1983 graduate of Texas Lutheran, Boyer explained that he returned to TLU because he saw an opportunity to bring together his spirituality and his love of music. “My father is a Lutheran minister, so I grew up in a Lutheran home, went to Bethany Lutheran College in Minnesota, TT A WY Dozens of past choir members join in singing “Beautiful Savior” at Homecoming 2006. The choir is directed by Dr. Douglas R. Boyer O BY DUSTIN T ’83, associate professor and director of the TLU

PHO School of Music.

Music – The Soul of TLU • Torch Winter 2007 | 11

The TLU String Ensemble presents “Morning Strings” in chapel last fall.

possibly church musicians. These “Music is a vital element at TLU, not written by Boyer and other modern educators bring the love of music and only for those who wish to have a career composers. The group has been praised their spirituality and devotion to their in the field of music, but really for every for their performances on campus, on students. student,” Boyer said. tour, and at events such as the TLU recognized the importance of “We have a huge group of non-music Excellence in Leadership Dinner. music education when it made the majors,” he says. “They love music and Along with Boyer, other full-time School of Music a part of the College of are part of one or more of our ensembles music professors include Shaaron Professional Studies. – and they are involved in other things Melcher Conoly, associate professor of “We take pride in our music educa- as well.” music who teaches vocal performance tion program,” Masterson said, “and Ensembles range from the University and who has been at Texas Lutheran we believe that we are signaling the Choir and Band to the recently since 1970. Conoly studied in Paris with importance of preparing our students established TLU Drumline. noted baritone Pierre Bernac on a with a strong music education.” The Choir is open by audition to all Fulbright Award, and she was a recipient students of the university, according to of the Sears Foundation Teaching Music scholarships Boyer, who is also the director of choral Excellence Award. In order to attract top music students, music and the Mary Gibbs Jones Chair Dr. Eric Daub serves as the head of TLU has recently strengthened its in Choral Music. The Choir performs a the piano department, teaches music scholarship program. The Da capo wide range of both sacred and secular theory courses, and is active as a soloist Award is a scholarship valued up to choral works, and performs during the and accompanist at TLU and in the $15,000 a year recognizing those traditional Christmas Vespers and spring surrounding area. Daub is a recording musical performers who also meet choir tour, which will include the artist for Pure and Simple Music, active certain academic requirements. Houston area this year. in the music ministry at his church, and Boyer explained that auditions and While the Women’s Choir, begun in has a variety of experience in jazz, interviews for the Class of 2011 will take 2002, also performs sacred and secular country, blues, gospel, arranging and place Feb. 18 at the university’s PACE literature on campus and on tour, Boyer composing. Day. For more information, prospective says that their performances are totally Dr. Denise Peterson, assistant students should visit www.tlu.edu or different and have an amazing sound. professor, is the initial appointee to the contact Boyer at 830-372-8000. The Kantorei Chamber Choir is Anita Windecker Chair in Music, teaches Other scholarships are available comprised of the strongest vocal violin and viola, and conducts the strings for non-music majors, including musicians and, again, is open by audition program at the university. The TLU String performance scholarships worth up to to all students. Kantorei focuses on music Ensemble performs in concert and recital $2,000 a year. of our time and often performs works each semester. Peterson also conducts

12 | Texas Lutheran University

the Community Youth Orchestra of the The Jazz Ensemble plays a traditional radio stations as the host of the Mid-Texas Symphony and is currently Big Band format along with more “Classical Guitar Alive!” program. He the co-principal violist in the Mid-Texas contemporary literature. TLU offers performs throughout the United States as Symphony. Dr. Peterson also has an courses in jazz improvisation and jazz a solo guitarist and chamber musician, interest in ethnomusicology and performs history. and has performed at the White House locally in traditional Irish bands. The Bulldog Pep Band performs at three times. Director of bands Beth Bronk is new most home football and basketball Assistant professor Andrea Sokol- to the TLU campus this fall. While at the games and is open to all university Albert, pianist, has won several national University of North Texas, Bronk was a students with a band background. and international awards and has been trumpet Teaching Fellow and studied Other ensemble opportunities highly acclaimed in the European and conducting with Anshel Brusilov. She include the Flute Choir, Clarinet Choir, North American press. Her concerto has taught instrumental music in Texas Double Reed Ensemble, Saxophone appearances include the National public schools for 18 years, most recently Ensemble, Brass Choir, Trombone Symphony Orchestra and broadcasting in New Braunfels where her bands earned Ensemble, Tuba/Euphonium Ensemble, credits include National Public Radio. statewide honors. She was awarded New Percussion Ensemble, and the newest New to TLU this year, Leigh Ann Braunfels I.S.D. Teacher of the Year and ensemble, the TLU Drumline. Woodard, an accomplished English the Mirabeau B. Lamar Award for Many of the ensembles and individual hornist, recently performed the premiere Teaching Excellence. She currently instruments are taught by adjunct profes- of John Corigliano’s third symphony serves as president of the Texas Music sors. Because of its proximity to Austin Circus Maximus with The University of Educators Association Region 12. and San Antonio, TLU attracts a number Texas Wind Ensemble at Carnegie Hall. Bronk says she is pleased with the of adjuncts who are also performing “We are fortunate to be able to musical talent that she sees on campus, professionals with groups such as the offer our students such prestigious including six Da capo Awardees in its Austin Lyric Opera, the San Antonio instructors, despite the relatively small initial year. About 100 students are Symphony, and other area orchestras. size of our univeristy’s music program,” involved in various band ensembles. Among the adjunct faculty members Boyer said, noting that with the The University Concert Band is at TLU are Vanguel Tangarov, principal improvement of the scholarship program open by audition to all students of the clarinet for the Austin Lyric Opera who and the outstanding faculty, the School university. The Concert Band performs has won national and international of Music is growing. in concert and on tour. Members of the compeititions and is currently working “And as the School of Music continues top woodwind, brass and percussion on his doctorate at The University of to grow in prestige and stature, more sections comprise the Symphonic Texas at Austin. and more alumni continue to take pride Winds, an elite ensemble that performs Guitar instructor Tony Morris is in its ongoing traditions as a vital part of regularly. heard each week on over 200 public college life at Texas Lutheran.” I

Music – The Soul of TLU • Torch Winter 2007 | 13

FACULTY hears at least two distinct tonal centers Q&A at once rather than one; for me, this provides amazingly different and interest- ing opportunities to explore dissonance and resolution. Although this style of music is difficult to perform, the students seem to have enjoyed the challenge of learning and performing a number of my works. In fact, our students welcome the challenge of performing the music of our time. The TLU Choir has performed the world premieres of a number of challenging works by well-known composers: “Viderunt omnes fines terrae,” by Latvian composer Rihards Dubra; “The Art of Music,” by British composer Paul Ayres; “You Are a Letter From Christ,” by American composer Steven Sametz; and “Love Came Down,” by American composer Donald Grantham.

Your background includes theatre and you recently did the stage direction of the new opera “Witness.” Tell us about it. “Witness” premiered at Saint Mary’s Composer, professor, alumnus College, Notre Dame, Indiana last spring. The opera deals with the issues A conversation with Dr. Douglas R. Boyer of racism, religious and social intolerance, the abuse of personal and institutional Dr. Douglas R. Boyer is a recognized composer, clinician and researcher on the music of power, and how a sense of community, our time. An active member of the American Composers Forum and ASCAP, Boyer’s tolerance, and individual love and ethics commissioned works have been performed throughout the U.S., Mexico and Canada. can override and outlast those negative He has been published in scholarly journals and cited in numerous textbooks. A 1983 impulses. I rarely have the opportunity graduate of Texas Lutheran, Boyer earned a M.M. degree from the University of Texas at to return to my theatre roots; so when San Antonio and his D.M.A. from The University of Texas at Austin. He joined the TLU I do, I like to work on projects that deal faculty in 2001 and currently is an associate professor, director of the School of Music, with social issues and provide the director of choral music, and holder of the Mary Gibbs Jones Chair in Choral Music. opportunity for discussion and interac- tion in the schools, universities and the surrounding communities. You have composed a number of But, perhaps, the most memorable and works. Where have these been frightening commission came from my performed? friend, Laurie Jenschke, at the Eastman Describe your experience at the I feel very fortunate because I’ve had the School of Music. To visit this incredible Lehigh University Composers opportunity to hear my works at many music school and not only hear my Forum. universities and churches. In San work, but see my name on the marquee This week-long, intensive course of Antonio, for example, my setting of “The as a featured composer, was quite a study focused on the art of composition Church’s One Foundation” was used for humbling experience… wonderful and and topics related to the professional the installation service of the executive completely terrifying at the same time. composer. This summer I had the director of Mission Presbytery held at opportunity to work with master Trinity University; the King William How would you categorize your teacher/composer Stephen Paulus. He Winds performed one of my pieces for musical compositions? has been a composer I’ve admired for a the New Music Festival held at UTSA; Challenging. A bit “different.” My music long time, and, in fact, composed a and many churches have commissioned feels as though it is out of control, but in work that the TLU Choir premiered at choral and handbell works for perform- a controlled way. Much of what I write is Christmas Vespers, “Light Shining Out ance in worship services and festivals. poly-modal or bi-modal. That is, the ear of Darkness.” I

14 | Texas Lutheran University

The TLU Board of Regents has awarded In June, Dr. Pamela Johnston, assistant paper on the marketing of Canada as a the Jo Murphy Chair in Education to professor of English studies, presented destination for European migrants in the APPLAUSE Dr. Eduardo Torres, assistant professor “Locating Women’s Studies at 1870s and 1880s. Sauer is the Texas of education; the Baenziger Religiously-Affiliated Colleges and representative on the association’s board. Professorship in Piano to Dr. Eric Universities” at the annual conference Daub, assistant professor, School of of the National Women’s Studies Dr. Bonita Vinson, director of career Music; and the Gembler Fellowship to Association in Oakland, Calif. services, has been appointed to the Dr. Chris Bollinger, assistant professor journal editorial board for the Southern of communication studies. Dr. Phil Ruge-Jones, associate professor Association of College Student Affairs. of theology, taped an extension learning During this one-year appointment, Three TLU faculty members had articles program for media-based continuing Bonita will review manuscripts submit- published in the San Antonio Express- theological education sponsored by the ted for the College Student Affairs News recently. Dr. Pamela Johnston, Division for Ministry of the ELCA. His Journal. assistant professor of English studies, session, “A Trinitarian Theology of the wrote a book review of author Sarah Cross,” is one of 10 hour-long presenta- Dr. Joan Williams, assistant professor Bird’s novel The Flamenco Academy, tions in the Systematic Theology series, of education, was awarded the J. Robert Dr. Carolyn Schneider,assistant which will be out in DVD format in and Mary S. Cade Vanguard Award for professor of theology, wrote a story for 2007. 2006-2007 to support the bilingual the religion section entitled “Christian education certification curriculum. The Leaders Around World Make Pleas for During the annual meeting of the inter- Cade award provides funding for faculty Peace in Mideast,” and Dr. Robin disciplinary Southern Association of projects or initiatives designed to enrich Bisha,assistant professor of communica- Canadian Studies, Dr. Angelika Sauer, the cultural, spiritual, or intellectual life tion studies, has had several pieces associate professor of history, presented a at TLU. I published on Russia and Russian cooking, including “After communism, a cuisine is reclaimed,” a special piece Ivonne Estrada receives Salinas Award on Russia and Russian recipes. Some of the recipes are available in the expanded Ivonne Estrada has been named Association and the Black Student copy section of the online Torch the recipient of the El Premio Salinas Union. (www.tlu.edu/news/torch). Award, which is presented annually to The El Premio Salinas Award hon- an outstanding student who repre- ors the memory of Roberto Lee At the American Chemical Society sents the ideals of cultural harmony Salinas, a TLU student well known for meeting held in San Francisco in and service to others. his willingness to serve others before September, Anna Bergstrom, instructor Estrada, a senior from San an accidental drowning in 1972. I of education, presented two papers: Antonio, is a multidisciplinary studies “ChemBridge: Bridging the Divide major with a specialization in bilin- Between the University of Texas and gual education. Following her student Urban High Schools” and “ChemBridge: teaching next semester, she will be the A Hybrid Learning Community.” She first student to graduate from TLU also contributed to “On the Assessment with the bilingual education certifica- of Students’ Qualitative Analysis tion. Experiences.” A graduate of the International School of the Americas in San Dr. Ana Maria Gonzalez, assistant Antonio, Estrada grew up in the bilin- professor of modern languages, presented gual education program at Morrill a paper “‘Hasta no ver no creer’: la Elementary School in the Harlandale revolucionaria perspectiva de Hasta no District. Currently a volunteer at verte Jesus mio” at the X Congreso del Morrill, she hopes to return to the Humor en la Literatura Luso-Hispana in school as a bilingual teacher in Monterrey, Nuevo Leon, Mexico. kindergarten or first grade when she graduates. Dr. Mark Gustafson, associate professor While at TLU, Estrada has served of biology and department chair, as president of the Mexican American published a book review of Amphibians Student Association and has been of East Africa in the October issue of active in the Student Education “Choice.”

Applause • Torch Winter 2007 | 15

SCORE Senior Sarah Harper of Round Rock and BOARD junior Libby Gonzales of Uvalde put together finishes of 22nd and 23rd, respectively. Jackson, Bignall and Fetty each earned ASC All-Conference honors. TLU improved on its third-place finish from the 2005 conference meet. The Bulldogs were trying to bring the ASC title back to Seguin. TLU won conference titles in 2002, 2003 and 2004.

I Football

Senior wide receiver Jason Trahan (Pearland/Pearland) added the school record for career receiving yards to his long list of accomplishments. Trahan Junior setter Megan concluded his 4-year career with 3,017 Purser leads TLU to yards, breaking Roy Maas’ old school the 2006 ASC West Sports wrap-up mark of 2,637 yards. Trahan also holds Division Sports wrap-up Championship. school records for single-season reception yards (1,086), career touchdown catches (31) and longest play from scrimmage TLU setter Megan Purser and middle (98-yard touchdown catch vs. East Texas I Volleyball blocker Jamie Lassiter were named to the Baptist). ASC 2006 All-Conference Volleyball The Bulldogs won their fifth Senior defensive back Jake Robbins Team. Purser, a junior from Dickinson, American Southwest Conference (ASC) (La Vernia/La Vernia) and junior line- and Lassiter, a sophomore from West Division Championship in seven backer Matt Alves (Austin/Del Valle) Richardson, also were named to the ASC years and hosted the 2006 ASC were named to the ESPN The Magazine West Division First Team. Championship Tournament. TLU fell in Academic All-District VI First Team. The TLU middle blocker/outside hitter the ASC tournament semifinal to the Bulldogs will appear on the national Deanna Dahse, New Braunfels; libero University of Texas-Dallas and ended the ballot for ESPN The Magazine Academic Melissa Mudge, Round Rock; and out- year with an overall record of 18-11. The All-America. Robbins, a four-year starter side hitter Amber Meeks, Magnolia, were Bulldogs were 15-3 in the ASC regular in the Bulldogs’ secondary, holds a 3.53 named to the ASC West Division Second season. grade point average as an applied science Team. Middle blocker/right-side hitter major with interests in biology and Mandy Bauer of La Feria, the lone senior chemistry. Robbins is a three-time ESPN on the team, was an ASC West The Magazine Academic All-District VI Honorable Mention selection. First Team selection. Alves has a 4.0 grade point average as a business I Cross Country administration major. Alves, a starting linebacker, is on the ESPN The The TLU women’s cross country Magazine All-District VI First Team for team put three runners in the Top 11, the first time. including conference runner-up Staci Junior kicker Holt Storrie (San Jackson, and placed second to McMurry Antonio/Clark) established the new at the 2006 ASC Cross Country school record for field goals made in a Championship Meet. Jackson, a junior career. He has 27 career field goals to At the ASC from Lake Highlands, completed the better the record of 25, set by John Championship Meet, Staci Jackson finishes 6,000-meter course in 25 minutes flat. Ostrom (1999-02). Storrie’s record- second to push the First-year runners Renae Bignall of breaking kick, a 28-yarder, came in the Bulldogs to a runner-up Katy and Rhonda Fetty of San Antonio Oct. 14 home game against Sul Ross team finish. placed eighth and 11th, respectively. State.

16 | Texas Lutheran University

Senior wide receiver Jason Trahan catches a SCORE touchdown pass in TLU’s 31-28 win over East By the Numbers Texas Baptist.Trahan ends his TLU football BOARD career with multiple school records, including the TLU marks for career TD receptions and Interceptions by sophomore career receiving yards. cornerback Dwight Bonner on the final two drives by Trinity in 2 TLU’s 14-9 victory over the career with a school-record 59 goals and Tigers.TLU’s win snapped a six-game 138 points (2 points for goals, 1 point losing skid to Trinity. for assists). Career touchdown grabs of I Men’s Soccer more than 90 yards by senior wide receiver Jason Trahan.The 3 Pearland native had a 91-yarder TLU freshman forward Alan Garza of this year against Mississippi College. Seguin was named the ASC Offensive Freshman of the Year and earned a spot on the ASC All-Conference Third Team. Matches in women’s soccer star Casey Rheman’s career in which Garza was joined on the ASC All- she has scored three or more 6 Conference Third Team by senior mid- goals. Rheman has twice scored fielder Marcus Pais of San Antonio. four goals in a match. Senior defender Taylor Williams of Austin, junior midfielder Aldo Garza of I Women’s Soccer New school-record for Seguin, and sophomore goalkeeper Chris assists in a three-game Seven Texas Lutheran women’s soccer Gerhardt of New Braunfels were selected volleyball match, set by 54 players were named to the ASC All- to the ASC Honorable Mention squad. Megan Purser in three-game Conference teams, and TLU Head Coach Alan Garza led the Bulldogs with 14 victory over Mary Hardin-Baylor. Mike Alderson was selected as the ASC goals scored. He also had three assists Coach of the Year. Four Bulldogs – and a team-best 31 points. Garza also Length of game-winning defenders Meagan Shisler of The had three game-winning goals and two punt return for touchdown Woodlands and Kristen Broussard of “hat tricks” (matches with three goals by Jesse Gremminger in 68 Bedford, forward Kelli Layden of Sugar scored). TLU’s 28-23 road win over Land and goalkeeper Katie Kistner of TLU, under first-year head coach Howard Payne. Plano – were named to the ASC All- Eddie Salazar, posted an overall record Conference First Team. of 7-11-1 and a 5-8 mark in the Goals scored in 2006 by the Forward Casey Rheman of Houston American Southwest Conference. TLU women’s soccer team. and midfielder April Kubeczka of The Bulldogs shattered the 84 Brenham were selected to the ASC All- school record for goals Conference Second Team, and defender scored by 22 and finished in the Alicia Gangemi of Converse earned a TLU Athletics Internet-Only NCAA Division III Top 10 for scoring. spot on the ASC All-Conference Third Broadcasts Team. TLU’s season ended in the ASC TLU has partnered with Stretch Championship Tournament semifinal Internet to provide Internet-only with a 1-0 loss to the University of broadcasts of upcoming women and Texas-Dallas after a 4-0 quarterfinal win men’s basketball games throughout the over East Texas Baptist. TLU finished 2006-07 seasons as well as 2007 2006 with an overall record of 14-6-0 softball and baseball games. Bulldog Sophomore Dwight Bonner and a conference mark of 10-3. The fans can access the broadcast schedule defends a pass in the win Bulldogs established or tied 23 team or on the TLU Athletics Web page over Trinity this year. individual school records. (www.tlu.edu/athletics). Fans can also Rheman and Layden tied for the sign-up for instant Bulldog game results school single-season record for goals and through text messages or emails with points. Each player scored 18 goals and the “escores” feature provided by had five assists during the 2006 season. Stretch Internet. A link to “escores” is Rheman concluded her stellar 4-year located on the athletics Web page. I

Scoreboard • Torch Winter 2007 | 17

SCORE BOARD TLU Golf: Driving toward the top Head coach H.C. Tran ’90

rainy October day in San But with Tran at the helm, Antonio couldn’t dampen the Bulldogs have asserted A H.C. Tran’s mood. At the themselves at the national level time, the Texas Lutheran in the NCAA Division III. In head coach for women’s and 2003, women’s golfer Theresa men’s golf teams was striding Ashorn played in the NCAA alongside a fairway, watching Division III National Angela Aufderhaar compete in a Championship and finished playoff for her first collegiate 38th. In 2004, the men’s golf title. A few minutes earlier, the team was ranked in the NCAA Bulldogs had clinched their first DIII/GolfStat Top 20 for the women’s team title since 1999. entire season. Now Tran followed Aufderhaar’s In 2005, the Bulldog men quest to end the seven-year broke into the NCAA DIII individual title drought for the National Championships field women’s team. for the first-time in school A chip within 10 feet and history and posted a 12th-place then a par-saving putt into the team finish with individual heart of the hole clinched the golfer Josh Werland claiming victory for Aufderhaar. The TLU’s first-ever NCAA DIII individual win added to the All-American honor. The 2006 team performance that placed men’s season built on the the Bulldogs ahead of 2006 2005 success with a first-ever NCAA Division III national American Southwest tournament participants Mary Conference team title, a second Hardin-Baylor and Hardin- H.C.Tran, left, is TLU’s head golf coach.This year Golf Digest ranked TLU ASC individual crown (won by Simmons and vaulted TLU to among the top 50 schools in the nation that provide student-golfers Michael Faterkowski) and a No. 22 in the NCAA “the absolute best education and the opportunity to play.” second straight trip to the DIII/GolfStat national rankings. NCAA DIII National Champion- “(The team’s play) was a ships. TLU again finished 12th beautiful thing to watch,” said Tran. “The women are working and Werland again claimed an All-American citation at the so hard to make this a special season. With such a young team national tournament. (five freshmen, a sophomore and two juniors), I don’t think In August of this year, TLU learned that both the women’s they know how good they could be. We’re tying to tell them.” and men’s programs claimed Top 50 rankings in the Golf Digest The resurgence of the women’s program and the continued “Academics First” listing. In announcing the “Academics First” growth of the men’s golf team at TLU have taken considerable list, Golf Digest stated: “For (junior golfers) who are excellent dedication from Tran, a 1990 graduate and a member of the students first, golfers second, these schools provide the absolute 1990 men’s NAIA national runner-up squad. Tran took over best education and an opportunity to play.” The Top 50 included both programs shortly after TLU’s decision to join the NCAA NCAA Division I, II and III colleges and universities that did not Division III, the non-scholarship athletic arm of the National award athletics scholarships for golf. The TLU men’s program Collegiate Athletic Association. was ranked ahead of Division I schools William & Mary, Colgate, The transition to NCAA Division III took some time for the Fairfield, Brown, Bucknell and Lafayette. golf programs, which enjoyed a wealth of success in the NAIA. “We feel that we can be at the national tournaments every The Bulldogs were team NAIA national runner-ups in men’s year,” said Tran. “With TLU’s academic reputation and our ability golf in 1990 and in women’s golf in 1999, and the programs to compete nationally in both programs, we can’t help but be produced three individual NAIA national champions – John excited about the future.” I Bohmann in 1967, Cameron Beckman in 1991 and Elizabeth for more about Hoffman in 1999. The women and men’s golf teams combined By Tim Clark TLU Athletics. for 22 national tournament appearances in the NAIA. Sports Information Director

18 | Texas Lutheran University

Leadership Dinner Nov. 15. GROWING The annual Excellence in &GIVING Leadership Dinner honors residents of South Texas who have made a significant con- tribution to the community. Proceeds from the event sup- port TLU’s Presidential Award for Leadership and Service Endowed Scholarship Fund, which provides financial assistance to TLU students who have exhibited leader- ship qualities on campus and in their communities. In its six years, the annual dinner has raised $438,000. This year’s honorees, Nelson and Tracy Wolff, Muellers pledge for several years. Since 1963, The Mueller gift will also have each spent many years the Mueller family has owned be recognized by naming the serving the people of Texas. $1 million and operated Live Oak Farms, Education Wing of Tschoepe Since 2001, Nelson Wolff a registered angus cattle ranch Hall for Barbara Frenzel has served as Bexar County Lee D. Mueller Jr. and in Fayette County. Mueller. Judge. Previously, he served Barbara Frenzel Mueller of Lee Mueller is vice chair The Muellers have one in the State House of La Grange have pledged stock of the TLU Board of Regents daughter, Laurie, a student at Representatives, Texas Senate, valued at approximately $1 and is chairman of the Campbell University Law San Antonio City Council, million to TLU’s capital Presidential Search Advisory School in North Carolina. and as mayor of San Antonio. campaign. Committee. He is a founding Tracy Wolff is currently The gift will be used to member of the Lone Star leading the effort to restore expand by one-third the Angus Alliance and serves as the Bexar County Courthouse AT&T Science Facility, for director of the State Bank of Leadership through the Hidalgo which ground was broken La Grange and of Texas Foundation. She also helped last April. The new science United Bancshares. Dinner honors get funding for the expansion wing will now include a Barbara Mueller also of the Bexar County Child Wolffs for more 3,000 square-foot floor that attended Texas Lutheran and Abuse and Neglect Court that information about will house pre-engineering subsequently became a Bexar County Judge was completed last January. Front Row. and physics labs and classes. teacher and counselor, serving Nelson W. Wolff and his wife Ed and Linda Whitacre When the AT&T Science 33 years in the education Tracy Wolff were honorees at were chairs of this year’s Facility is completed in late field, including 27 years in TLU’s Excellence in Leadership Dinner. I 2007, it will contain an the La Grange schools before organic chemistry lab, which her retirement in 1999. Craig Biggio, Astros will be named the Lee D. During that time she was second baseman, will be the honoree at TLU’s Mueller Organic Chemistry active in teacher, church, and annual Front Row set for Lab. community organizations. Feb. 13 at Minute Maid “We are excited to receive Currently she is active in Park in Houston.The this wonderful pledge, and the Purple Angels Volunteers event, featuring a live, on- we thank the Muellers for for St. Mark’s Medical Center stage conversation their generosity,” said TLU in La Grange and in the Texas between Biggio and President Jon Moline. Women’s League supporting Verne Lundquist, CBS sportscaster and TLU Lee Mueller earned a B.A. local charities. She is also a alumnus, is a fundraiser from Texas Lutheran in 1958, member of the Lone Star for TLU’s intercollegiate a degree in theology from Angus Alliance and P.E.O., athletics program.The Evangelical Lutheran a national philanthropic event is presented by Theological Seminary, and educational organization for Thrivent Financial for served as a Lutheran minister women. Lutherans.

Growing & Giving • Torch Winter 2007 | 19

GROWING &GIVING TLU recognizes Linda Whitacre for her tireless work on the Fritz Homestead

isitors to the TLU campus may notice V the newly restored Fritz Homestead near the corner of Court Street and Prexy, but while this house now looks new, it is home to a rich history that may have been forgotten if not for the contributions of Betty Jean Jones ’46, the driving force behind its preservation, and TLU regent Linda Whitacre, whose long hours and hard work have given the Fritz Homestead the prominence it has now attained. Whitacre grew up in Fort Worth and moved to Lubbock to attend Texas Tech able to assist with the vice president for finance. The outcome of all of the after high school. There, she restoration of the Fritz “Down came sheetrock, work and designing that went majored in home economics, Homestead. and the wonderful wooden into the project is a home that with an emphasis in fashion The Fritz Homestead walls were discovered,” has maintained its historical merchandising. While dates back to the 1860s, Whitacre said. The house significance through original attending school, she gained when Frederick and Elizabet then came alive with its own documents and letters, photos more than an education, as Fritz, immigrants from personality. Betsy was a great and donated antiques and she met her future husband – Darmstadt, Hesse, Germany, help sharing the history of furniture, while incorporating Ed Whitacre. They were built what is now a portion the house with me. My goal a modern, business-like blessed with two daughters, of the present house. for the house was to maintain atmosphere into the interior. one granddaughter and two The Fritz family owned its integrity while making it The Fritz Homestead is grandsons, and have now approximately 800 acres of serviceable and comfortable currently being used as a lived in San Antonio for 12 farmland, including the land to be useful to the school.” meeting place for various years. upon which TLU now sits. Whitacre doesn’t want to events at TLU, including Board Chair Karen A second small house was take sole credit for turning small receptions, outdoor Norman introduced TLU to built adjacent to the original the Fritz Homestead into the concerts, board meetings and Whitacre about six years ago. house in the 1890s, and in beautiful dwelling it is today. special events. “Karen’s enthusiasm was 1912, the two houses were “I asked a designer Whitacre said she is happy overwhelming! She introduced joined together to make the friend, Linda Love, for help. with how the Fritz Home- me to Dr. Moline, and I was current 3,500 square foot She was great, and we used a stead restoration turned out. hooked,” Whitacre remem- house. few antiques to add to the She has high expectations for bers. “I feel it is very impor- Whitacre was approached authenticity of the home. its future. “It is my hope that tant to have a faith-based for the project several years Some were donations, and the Fritz Homestead will be institution, one that really after the home was moved in some new pieces were used used often and enjoyed by cares about its students, and 2001. She began working on to make it homey. Shirley all who have the opportunity TLU is that school.” structural changes with Herres (also a TLU Regent) to make use of it.” I Norman knew of contractors, as well as with was helpful in many ways, Whitacre’s gusto for designing Betsy Clardy, vice president aiding in selections and for more By Stephen Skinner information about interiors, so she mentioned for development and alumni such. Overall, it was a very Development Writer and the Fritz Homestead. to Whitacre that she may be relations, and Stan Ledbetter, rewarding and fun project.” Prospect Researcher

20 | Texas Lutheran University

LUCKY’S Upcoming TLU alumni events PACK Plan Black and Gold Roundup TLU Alum Happy Hours March 30, 2007 Every month Get out your Happy Hours in Ahead!! boots and denim Dallas, San Antonio, for the Fifth Houston, and Austin Annual Black and are offering TLU alums HOMECOMING 2007 Gold Roundup in a chance to catch up San Antonio. with old friends and Oct. 5-7 This annual event meet new TLU friends. brings together TLU alumni with the These informal gather- medical community for a night of food, ings are in a different Class Reunion years fun and dancing. Anne Marie’s at location every month, Devonshire Place will again host the and email blasts are the way we let you At an Austin Happy 1957 – Golden Group Reunion party, which begins at 6:30 p.m. on know where they are. If you would like Hour,Whitney 1962 Friday, March 30. All money raised will to be notified, please make sure we have (Daum) Myers ’98 visits with Annette 1967 be used for TLU scholarships. Purchase your current email address by dropping (Lueker) Werling ’98 tickets online at www.tlu.edu or call us a note at [email protected]. Check the 1972 and Kevin Werling ’00. 830-372-8026. Tables and individual Web site for dates and locations at 1977 tickets are available. www.tlu.edu. 1982 1987 1992 1997 2002

Omega Tau turning 50! TLU’s fraternity Omega Tau is approaching its 50th anniversary, and to mark this historic event, a special celebration is being planned When CBS Sportscaster Verne Lundquist ’62 visited campus last fall, he reminisced about the early for more during homecoming in October days of Omega Tau with fellow members of the fraternity – left to right,Tim Clark ’94, students Phil information about upcoming alumni events. 2008. Collins, Jody Heathcoe, Lundquist, Kristopher Phillips, and current Omega president Joseph Panzarella.

Chris Bischoff, TLU major gifts officer and ’74 Omega Tau alumnus, will Q & A with Gail Randle serve as a point of contact at TLU. How can I get in touch with former classmates and friends? To volunteer and add your input, Q contact Chris at [email protected] or 830-372-6987. TLU’s privacy policy doesn’t allow us to give out personal information. A If you can’t find your fellow alum on the Web directory at Watch for a letter soliciting your www.tlu.edu/alumni/network/email.html, you can contact the alumni relations department at 830-372-8026 or [email protected] and let us know who you are ideas for the celebration and start looking for. If we have current information, we will contact that person for you planning to attend this historic and give them your information so that you can reconnect. We hope to have an gathering to help celebrate the glory online community available in the near future that will enable our alumni to Gail Randle is the of Omega Tau. “One together!” network and re-establish friendships. director of alumni relations at TLU.

Got a question? E-mail us at [email protected].

Lucky’s Pack • Torch Winter 2007 | 21

22 | Texas Lutheran University

ALUM NOTES

1938 in Texas.” He served on the Seguin City missionary in Cameroon, West Africa. The Alumni Board Council for 44 years. Two of the youth he confirmed at Faith and friends join EDITH KIEL’s paintings were on exhibit Lutheran became pastors and were faculty and staff to last summer at Argent Court in Seguin. present to lead the worship service in help incoming 1952 freshmen move in. She is a resident of Argent Court. which the retirement was voted. Pastor WALTER MILLER celebrated the 50th Dressen and his wife, Betty, now live in 1941 anniversary of his graduation from Syracuse where he continues to serve as Wartburg Seminary and his ordination interim pastor in Lutheran congregations MYRTICE (NYGAARD) LARSON was into the ELCA on June 10, 2006. During in southeast Nebraska. recently awarded the E.L. Galyean his active ministry, he has served the Service Award at the Texas Retired congregations of Grace Lutheran Church ALLEN and BETTY (URBAN) ’54 Teachers Association State Convention in in Eagle Lake, First Lutheran Church in JOHANNES have been appointed co- Amarillo on April 25. She resides in Galveston, St. John Lutheran Church in chairpersons of the Bosque County Arlington. Thorndale and Martin Luther Lutheran Historical Commission in Meridian. Church in Giddings. When he retired CHARLES SCHULTZ was awarded the 1948 from full-time ministry on Feb. 28, 1998, he and his wife, MARY (WIETSTRUCK) Jack Bauer Award for distinguished MILDRED HOGSTEL has published MILLER ’59, moved to Taylor. The couple service to the North American Society more than 20 books for nurses. One of also celebrated their 50th wedding for Oceanic History and for lifetime these books is the “Handbook for Family anniversary on June 17, 2006. contributions to the field of maritime Caregivers of Older Adults.” history at the NASOH meeting in 1958 Manitowoc, Wis. in April 2006. 1950 WILLIAM DRESSEN retired from the 1960 Former Seguin City Councilman and Lutheran ministry July 2, 2006. His last Mayor Pro-Tem RODGER WEYEL was parish was Faith Lutheran Church in MARGARINE (GEISTWEIDT) BEAMAN chosen by Mayor Betty Ann Matthies to Talmage, Neb. and Christ Lutheran received the MetLife Foundation be the honorary parade marshal for the Church in Syracuse, Neb. where he National 2006 Older Volunteers Enrich “Biggest Small Town 4th of July Parade served 33 years. Previously he was a America Award in the Community

AlumNotes • Torch Winter 2007 | 23

ALUM NOTES Preparing Lutheran pastors in Madagascar Rev. John Pless ’75 reaching out with mercy to help the several symposia on Lutheran identity in hurting and the hungry.” July and August. So in 2005, when Pless was invited to “These trips enrich my teaching in the visit Madagascar, he saw Luther’s doctrine classroom as they provide me with vivid at work, first hand. In Madagascar, his examples of how Lutheran theology really work included assisting the leadership does enliven a full-bodied, robust of the Malagasy Lutheran Church in approach to our care for the neighbor,” developing a comprehensive approach he explained. “They help me expand my both to HIV/AIDS education and to care students’ vision of the global nature of for its victims. the Lutheran Church and our need not Later in 2005, he was part of a team only to assist our brothers and sisters in of six theologians who visited India and those third world settings, but also to Indonesia to visit areas hit by the tsunami learn from their confession of the faith.” where the Lutheran Church was involved Pless will be lecturing to a pastoral Rev. John Pless with ev. John Pless, an assistant professor in relief work. conference in India this January, taking children at a Lutheran of pastoral ministry and missions During spring break of last year, he students to Madagascar at spring break, orphanage in at Concordia Theological Seminary, was back in Madagascar with six of his and in May will teach a two-week Madagascar. R has expanded his teachings students, who not only toured Lutheran course in theological ethics at a beyond the classroom – thousands of churches, seminaries, hospitals, and Lutheran seminary in Siberia. miles beyond. schools for the deaf and blind in “I am eager to find additional ways His teachings are based on Martin Madagascar, but also served meals at the to incorporate my students into oppor- Luther’s understanding of how God Good Samaritan Center for the poor. tunities for involvement in places such works behind human “masks” to give “It is especially invigorating to take as these,” he said. people daily bread. students from our campus and teach “I am fully convinced that our pastors He explained, “God cares for the them in a context often marked by deep need to have a deep and rich theology neighbor in his or her bodily need in poverty and profound human need,” he coupled with compassionate hearts. It is this way. Christ has given His church the said. essential that Lutheran pastors have a mandate of preaching the Gospel, and Pless was back in the field last global view. The best way to accomplish where the Gospel is proclaimed there the summer, as leaders of several Protestant this goal is to live, study and serve in a church will also be the hands of Christ, churches invited him back to lecture at place like Madagascar!” I

Champion category. The award was Church in San Antonio. 1968 presented in Washington D.C. on April 28, 2006. There were only 26 1965 GILBERT FRANKE has had 11 poems individuals throughout the United States commissioned by Concordia Publishing who received the award, and she was the After more than 40 years in education House, St. Louis, and published in only one from Texas. She also received and career counseling, SUE “Enrichment” magazine for “Joshua the President’s Call To Order Award. She (CHRISTIANSEN) MORROW considers LifeLight Bible Study.” The poems has been involved with many volunteer herself “almost retired!” She continues explore the theme of Jesus’ ministry programs at the local, state, national, and with writing and consulting, and she pre-figured in the role of Joshua at the international leveles. She is part owner facilitates the Interfaith Worship Services conquest of Canaan. In May, he of Beaman Metal Company and owner of group. Her spare time is filled with completed his 13th year as pastor of Beaman Accounting and Consulting in antiquing and genealogy. Sue and her St. Paul Lutheran Church, LCMS, in Austin. husband, Terry, who is a professor of art Bishop. His wife, Beth, is the librarian at Texas Tech University, reside in for the Bishop Consolidated Schools. 1961 Lubbock, as do their son, daughter and son-in-law. 1970 CHARLES ECKERT is the part-time out- reach pastor at Amazing Grace Lutheran MARTY WOELFEL retired from the

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ALUM NOTES

TLU alumni from Victoria are (front row, left to right) Joyce Tripson,Vanessa (Valenta) Stevens ’72, Barbara Schmidt, Nyle Ruth (Kahlich) Leshikar ’63. Back row, left to right, are Larry Ullman ’64, Jeep Kiel ’64, Robert Tripson ’66, John Schmidt ’61; Michael Samford, Michelle Samford ’90, Gail Norris ’64, and Peggy Brockenbush ’72.

Kentucky State University faculty in DIANE (TIMMERMAN) SIMECEK and 2004. She is enjoying more time for her husband, Ray Simecek, were married volunteer work with Girl Scouts and in Big Bend National Park on Feb. 25, Sweet Adelines. She resides in 2006. They reside in Seguin. Louisville, Ky. 1978

1973 VICTOR ANDERSEN has taken a new Division president for Meritage TOP: Karen call at First Lutheran Church in Orange Corporation that builds homes under the (Christiansen) JUDY (WOMBLE) PESCHEL, public Grove. Hammonds, Legacy and Monterey Haverlah ’66 and information officer for Seguin ISD, has Leroy Haverlah ’61 of brands. He and his wife, KAREN been given the Education Service JAMES “TY” FAWLEY was promoted to Austin enjoy the choir (HOLMAN) PEOPLES, have three Award by the Seguin Area Chamber of vice president of Vendor Management at alumni reunion. children: Max, Kate, and Jackson. Commerce. The award goes to recipients EMC Mortgage Corporation, a subsidiary BOTTOM: Pam who go above and beyond in the field of Bear Stearns Company. He resides in 1979 (Teichelman) Brissee of education. Judy was instrumental in Richardson with his wife Stacey. ’81 of Houston shows the development of the Seguin Youth ROGER BUCHHORN began working as her daughter, Erica, Leadership Academy, worked with local CONNIE (STAGE) MUSANTE married the Chapel where manager of the accounting services aid groups to help displaced Rita and Gary Musante in July of 2003. They she and James Brissee group at Padgett Strateman accounting Katrina evacuees find shelter in Seguin, reside in Brockport, N.Y. and have two ’81 were married. firm in San Antonio in March 2006. and spent the last two years coordinating adult sons. agendas and functions for the Seguin The Home Builders Association of FERNANDO RAMIREZ was elected to Education Foundation. Greater Austin presented long-time the Sharyland ISD school board. He member and past president WES resides in McAllen. 1975 PEOPLES with its highest honor, the “Distinguished Excellence Award.” Wes 1981 JOHN PLESS, assistant professor of has been in the home building industry pastoral ministry and missions at since 1978, serving as Division President With more than 20 years of experience in Concordia Theological Seminary in Fort of NPC Houston and vice president of a variety of executive healthcare positions Wayne, Ind., had two of his books, Midwest U.S. Operations for Ryan in Texas, last July DENNIS PULLIN “Word – God Speaks to Us: Lutheran Homes. He was a founding partner of became chief operating officer for Spirituality Series” and “A Small Wilshire Homes and later became Austin Washington Hospital Center, the largest Catechism on Human Life,” published Division president of Hammonds private, not-for-profit hospital in the last summer. Homes. In 2002 he was named Austin nation’s capital. Pullin holds a master’s

AlumNotes • Torch Winter 2007 | 25

ALUM NOTES The name has changed but the voice is the same Sylkie Green ’77 name to “Sylkie” Green. various music artists. Three years ago she began working “It literally takes you back to the old with Cornelius Grant, the former music school music. Every week we interview a director of The Temptations. One of the different artist,” Green said. last surviving members of the original The radio show is heard in England, group, he worked with The Temptations Canada, Germany, and on satellite and for over 20 years and later founded the Internet and on a growing number of WARM (World Academy of Recording stations across the U.S., including KTFM Musicians). in San Antonio. Artists featured on the Green became co-partners with Grant show include Dennis Edwards of the in WARM, as well as The Starz of Temptations and Robert “Kool” Bell of Tomorrow National Talent Search and Kool & the Gang. Magnum Silk Entertainment. The radio show includes other In 2004 Green and Grant began features such as a top five count down co-hosting an Internet radio show of the top songs for a particular week and On-air personalities ou could say Sylvia Green’s national known as i-WARM. That led to the year, news about old-school performers, Sylkie Green and radio career had its roots at KWED launch of her new nationally and and Green’s personal favorite, a section Cornelius Grant of in Seguin, where she interned internationally syndicated radio show entitled “I Bet You Didn’t Know.” the Temptations. Y while studying communications at that she and Grant co-produce and “It’s very informative and can be Texas Lutheran. co-host, “Yesterday’s Old School Jamz.” hysterical,” Green said. After graduating from TLU, Green This weekly two-hour program, which Catch WARM on SIRIUS satellite performed in the Broadway touring went on air in international markets the radio. I company of “The Best Little Whorehouse summer of 2005, highlights R&B and in Texas,” before moving to California. soul music from the ’60s, ’70s and ’80s Samantha Bryant That’s where Green legally changed her and is interspersed with interviews with Junior English Major

degree from Texas A & M and has written 1985 State Guard in May of 2005. He resides numerous articles and edited several in League City. sports medicine magazines. VERNA ESCHENFELDER completed her Ph.D. in August of 2005, and she now is 1988 1984 an occupational therapist at Texas Children’s Hospital in Houston. She is a ELIZABETH JORDAN accepted the MARK RUSSELL, Grange Insurance vice neonatal intensive care specialist with position of director of music at First president and chief administrative officer, current research focus in the area of Lutheran Church, Richmond Beach, has been named chairman of the board of neonatal feeding and premature infants. Wash. She began working there in Governors for the National Insurance August after moving from New York City Crime Bureau, a national not-for-profit GRACE (GERHART) KUNDE was where she had lived and worked as a organization dedicated to preventing, installed as the Guadalupe Blanco River composer for 15 years. detecting, and defeating insurance fraud Authority director for Guadalupe and vehicle theft. Mark holds an M.B.A. County. Her term will run through 1989 from Ashland University and his accred- Feb. 1, 2009. itations include Charter Property Under- JIMMIE BARRETT is the first vice- writer (CPCU), Associate in Risk 1986 president of the Court Officers & Management (ARM), and Casualty Claim Deputies Association and will become Law Associate (CCLA). He and his wife, BRIAN WALENTA completed his Ph.D. the president of CODA in the coming Lori, reside in Dublin, Ohio where he in instructional management in year. He is currently the county security serves on the boards of the Community December of 2004. He was also promot- supervisor, managing a staff of 25 Shelter and the Ronald McDonald House. ed to the rank of major in the Texas deputies with the Arlington County

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ALUM In Memoriam NOTES 1930s

OLETA (SCHULTZ) DOSSMAN ’30 passed away Sept. 9, 2006 at the age of 95. She was an avid reader, seam- stress, needle and handworker, and enjoyed quilting perhaps most of all. She produced many quilts used and treasured by her family.

CHRISTIAN WILLIAM PFLUGER JR. ’34 passed away June 29, 2006 at his Coupland home at the age of 90. After the death of his father in 1944, TLU alumni gathered near Bergen, Norway. Left to right are Ann-Elin Eikum, Frode Eikum, Debbie Bill went to work at Coupland State Eikum, Stig Martin Halleraker, Dr. Scott Bailey, associate professor of psychology; Hilde (Myklebust) Bank, founded in 1905 by a group Wolter, Henning Tvedt, Asbjorn Ystebo, Henrik Wolter, Lillian Stormo, and Marte Hammer. which included his father. At the first directors’ meeting, Bill Pfluger was elected president of the bank and Sheriff’s Office. He has been working 1993 remained in that position for the next with the Commonwealth of Virginia to 43 years. Even after his retirement in establish state guidelines for security in J.P. GREGORIEW was named the “2006 1987, he continued to be very active the state court system. Allen ISD Secondary Teacher of the in the bank, serving on the Board of Directors for many years. Year.” He teaches theatre arts at the TODD DELLER and his wife, Debbie, Lowery Freshmen Center in Allen. finalized the adoption of Marc (12 years His wife, Kelley, is an algebra teacher 1940s old) and Cheyenne (9 years old) in and the head volleyball coach for Allen ERWIN FORSHAGE ’48 died on February 2006. In April, Todd started his High School. They have an 8-year old Sept. 3, 2006 in San Antonio at the new position as assistant controller for daughter, Kylie. The Beck Group, a construction, architec- age of 81. He was in the accounting profession and was Seguin’s first ture and real estate developer in Dallas. 1994 practicing CPA. MARY (RIEDER) REIDENBACH and her JENNIFER (GIESBER) HOXIE became a TED R. KRUEGER ’43 of Austin husband Paul announce the birth of third grade teacher at Vogel Elementary their son Kenneth on July 22, 2005. passed away on July 30, 2006 at the School in Seguin ISD after completing age of 82. He was employed by the They reside in Northport, N.Y. the Alternative Certification Program at Texas Highway Department until his TLU. She and her husband, Rory, also retirement in 1986 at which time he DAVID and JESSICA (GAYTAN) ‘95 have a 5-year old son named Alex. They had 40 years of service. SZYMANSKI live in Ruston, La. with reside in San Antonio. their two children, Dawson, 3, and Justin, 1. A. EARL MGEBROFF, M.D. ’45 of 1995 Yoakum, passed away May 27, 2006 at the age of 79. He was a TLU regent 1992 STEVEN LUTZ took the position of emeritus and recepient of the TLU Distinguished Church Service Award. DEREK FARLEY and his wife, Robin, assistant men’s basketball coach at announce the birth of their daughter, Southern Methodist University after DORIS (SMITH) WILLIAMS ’40 of Cameron Reese, on July 31, 2006. serving in the same capacity at Stephen Seguin died June 8, 2006 at the age Cameron has twin older brothers, Jack F. Austin University for the past six years. of 85. Paul and Nicholas Dukes. The Farleys reside in Oak Point. 1996

MICHAEL HUBER, M.D. is in private KATHRYN (SHARP) BARRIENTES practice in Lukfin. He and his wife, completed her masters of science in Stephanie, have two children: Jarrett, 6 taxation at the University of Texas at and Emily Grace, 3. Arlington in December 2005. She has continues on page 29

AlumNotesAlumNotes • Torch • TorchWinter Winter 2007 2007 | 27

ALUM NOTES Making a difference in D.C. Stephanie Barret ’02 and Jasen Zubcevik ’03 memories.” and attended a health journalism confer- After graduating, Stephanie and Jasen ence in Nigeria with several international decided to move to Washington D.C. for and local partner organizations. graduate school. They wanted to contin- Jasen graduated from American ue their studies in international relations University, the School of International and politics. Service and joined the government Jasen said, “We knew that the educa- affairs department at the National tion we had earned at TLU would enable Association of Realtors (NAR), the us to reach our goals of earning graduate nation’s largest trade and professional degrees and eventually working for some association, where he is the government of the most reputable companies in affairs political/grassroots representative. Washington D.C.” One of his major assignments at NAR is Stephanie successfully completed her to manage large real estate brokers’ graduate studies at the Elliot School of involvement in political programs. International Affairs at George “The feeling of being a representative Washington University and is employed for the largest trade organization in the by Internews Network – an international U.S. is something I cannot really International tephanie Barret and Jasen media development organization that describe,” he said. “I’m very fortunate graduates Stephanie Zubcevik came half way around works on improving access to informa- that I have been given the opportunity to Barret and Jasen the world to meet and fall in love tion for people around the world by pro- work with and learn from some of the Zubcevik. S at TLU. Today, they are two moting independent media. She says she most skilled professionals in the busi- young professionals living and working enjoys her job and loves working with ness. Every day I look forward to new in the nation’s capital. individuals from different backgrounds, challenges, projects and accomplish- Stephanie came to TLU from Reunion traveling, and managing and developing ments.” Island, France as a part of an exchange media projects worldwide. Stephanie and Jasen are engaged and program. Jasen was already at TLU, an Recently, Stephanie was promoted to planning wedding ceremonies in international student from Macedonia in senior program associate for Africa Macedonia and France. “In the future, his second year of studies. where she manages media development we hope that we’ll get the opportunity to “At first, we became very good projects in seven African countries. As do more overseas travel,” Jasen said, “but friends, and our friendship quickly part of her work, she has recently trav- no matter where we are in the world, grew,” he said. “We spent two great years eled to Kenya, Nigeria and Ethiopia. She TLU and Texas will always be in our at TLU, years filled with wonderful recently opened a field office in Ethiopia hearts as our second home.” I

accepted the position of vice president (ALBRIGHT) GORREBEECK were in counseling and educational of income tax at Harry and David married on June18, 2006 and moved to psychology in December of 2005 from Operations in Medford, Ore. Fort Walton Beach, Fla. Christopher Texas A&M-Corpus Christi. He and his received his M.B.A. in May 2005 and wife, ALYSON (SHUFELT) ’99, have SONJIA (BROWN) FRITZ married Evan Allison was promoted to major in the moved to San Antonio where Michael Ralph on July 15, 2006 in Buda. The USAF in June. accepted a faculty position in the couple resides in San Angelo. counseling program at UTSA. JENNIFER (GAARDER) SKINNER and ERIC GILBERTSON received his Ph.D. her husband, Thomas, announce the CHELLE (LAGOSKI) NORTHCUTT and in philosophy in May 2006 from Sage birth of their daughter, Grace Kelley, her husband, Joshua, announce the School of Philosophy at Cornell on Jan. 19, 2006. The family resides in adoption of 22-month old Michael University. He now teaches at Lewis & Spring. Carter on June 29. Just 24 hours later, Clark College and the University of she married Joshua. The family lives in Portland. 1997 the Houston area.

CHRISTOPHER ‘95 and ALLISON MICHAEL MOYER completed his Ph.D. ADRIENNE (JOBE) QUIRE and her

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In Memoriam from page 27 ALUM STANLEY LEE WEISS ’48 passed NOTES away Aug. 10, 2006 at the age of 80. He worked as a clothier and tailor for 30 years in Killeen where he owned Stanley Weiss Men’s Store, Mark’s Army Store, an appliance repair store and several apartment buildings. At an age when many consider retirement, Stanley became a stockbroker for A.G. Edwards & Sons, Inc., where he worked until finally retiring some two decades later.

Members of the Class of 1986 enjoying homecoming are, left to right, Carmen Cernosek, Regina 1950s Barton Keilers, Kim Lee, Kathy Blankenship Binnig, Jeff Engeling, Mimi Hertzberg King, Shirley Wetter NORMA (WIEGMANN) TAYLOR ’55, Harris, and Monica Sookdeo Johnson. passed away Aug. 9, 2006 at the age of 77. She taught in San Antonio’s Northeast Independent School District for 33 years. She was a husband, Michael, announce the birth agencies doing relief work for those teacher at Coker, Wilshire and of their first child, Andrew Michael, on hard hit by the tsunami. Jackson Keller elementary schools. Nov. 26, 2005. The family resides in Kyle. 1999 1960s 1998 AMBER (MILLS) BAUMANN married BERNARD LEITER ’66 died Friday, Jarrod Baumann on June 24, 2006 at July 28, 2006, in Seguin. A graduate KATHRYN (PFEIFFER) ANDERSON Second Baptist Church in Houston. of Texas Lutheran, Bernie recently and BOB ANDERSON announce the SHANNON (WAGNER) ROHLFING retired as senior buyer for The birth of their first child, Owen William, was the matron of honor. University of Texas at San Antonio. on June 20, 2006. BETHANY (FRITZ) GRISSOM and her 1970s SARAH (PITNER) YOUNG and her husband, Russ, announce the birth of husband, David, announce the birth of their second child, Melaina Sharon, on RICHARD T. KIRK ’73 passed away at their second child, Nathan Westley, on May 16, 2006. They reside in New the age of 62 on May 20, 2006. He May 10, 2006. Sarah is taking a break to Braunfels. worked for the Internal Revenue stay at home with the boys, and David is Service where he served as a senior in the Navy. They are in Norfolk, Va. ALYSON (KRIPPNER) and KOREY excise/employment tax specialist, KIRCHNER ’98 celebrated the birth of teacher, coach and mentor, and BETHANY ERICSON graduated from their daughter, Madison Paige, on retired in 2000 after 27 years of service. Richard was a co-owner of the University of Queensland in March 31, 2006. ALYSON received her a real estate company in Austin from Australia with her master’s degree in master’s degree from UTHSCSA and will 1988 until 1997. international studies, peace and conflict complete a residency in obstetrics and resolution. She relocated to Quito, gynecology in San Antonio. DORCAS STROECK ’78 died Sept. 6, Ecuador and helped a local non- 2005 after a long and lingering illness. governmental agency, CENIT, write a TYLER and BRIANNA (JACKSON) She lived in San Antonio. grant proposal. CENIT helps uneducated MARVIN moved to Des Moines, Iowa women and their children, encouraging where Tyler is running the offices for RICKY WIGINTON ’78 passed away education, proper health habits, and job TEK Systems, the computer consulting May 10, 2006 in Port Harcourt, skills. In June 2006 she arrived in Sri company where he has worked since Nigeria. Lanka and is living in the capital city, graduation. Colombo, where she works for Norwegian Peoples Aid. Part of her SHANNON (WAGNER) and MARK work concerns land mines and part is ROHLFING celebrated the birth of their working with other non-governmental daughter, Abigail Marie, on April 14,

AlumNotes • Torch Winter 2007 | 29

ALUM NOTES

Members of the Class of 2001 celebrating their five-year reunion are, top row, left to right, Amanda Kidder-Micklos, Sarah Wilson, Rebecca Kunz Haverlah, Nicki Harris, bottom Jessica Hilburn Geisbauer, Jessica Decker Hansen, and Krista Walker.

2002 CHRISTINA (LORENZ) QUINTANILLA and her husband, Joel, a current TLU DANE BOYLE, director of the student, announce the birth of their first Guadalupe Regional Wellness Center, child, Addison Grace, on June 22, was named “Business Leader of the 2006. Week” by the American Bank of Texas. He is married to Beth and they have MELISSA (BAKKEN) TRAINER married three children, Kayla, Greg and Kevin. Edwin Trainer on May 13, 2006 at the They reside in Seguin. Cypress Chateau in Cypress. They reside TOP: Jessie Boka ’05, 2006. The family resides in Houston. in Houston. Megan Henske ’05, and Victor Perello ’06 LISA HUMPHREYS graduated in May enjoy a San Antonio 2000 2006 with a master’s degree in human 2003 Happy Hour. services with a counseling emphasis. SARAH (JESKE) and LUCAS LAND ’01 She currently works in Comal ISD as a LAUREN DOW is a student at Lutheran BOTTOM: Jeep Kiel announce the birth of their son, Asher counselor/social worker at the elementary Theological Southern Seminary in ’64, Fred Davis ’77, Jeffrey, born on May 24, 2006. Sarah is school level. Columbia, S.C., with plans to earn a Assistant Coach Bill in her fourth year teaching elementary masters of divinity degree. Schade, Connie music in the Killeen ISD. Lucas is in his WES KOLLE accepted the position of Schade, and Dr. second year at Truett Theological head baseball coach in Yorktown. He KARI (CORDER) PASTRANO married Harold Prochnow ’51 Jason Michael Pastrano on April 8, enjoy the men’s Seminary in Waco. They reside in currently resides in Victoria with his athletics reunion at Copperas Cove. wife, Jessica. 2006 at the Doubletree Hotel in San homecoming. Antonio. They reside in Converse. Kari JENNIFER (BUCHANAN) PRINCE and JENNIFER (CICCO) LAYTON and her is pursuing her M.B.A. at the University her husband, Chad, welcomed their first husband, Bryan, announce the birth of of Phoenix. child, Connor Chadwick, on Dec. 23, their daughter, Natalie Ann, born on 2005. March 20. They reside in Chester, Va. JASON SENDELBACH married KIRSTEN (ROGERS) SENDELBACH 2001 RYAN LOYD and SARAH LONNEVIK on June 17, 2006 in Florida. He is a were united in marriage June 3, 2006 technology assistant at Wheeling High JILYN (CHANDLER) OLIVEIRA received at the Chapel of the Abiding Presence School in Chicago. Kirsten works for her master’s degree in education in July at Texas Lutheran by campus pastor the McLeuhan County Youth 2005 and is near completion of her Rev. Greg Ronning. The couple met in Collaboration. The couple resides in doctorate in education from the Langner Hall during their freshman Hawthorn Woods, Ill. University of Montana. She and her orientation in 1998. The couple resides husband currently reside in Helena, in San Antonio. Mont.

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ALUM NOTES

Enjoying homecoming are Ken Weiher ’81, Paul Lemmon ’81, David Ehler ’81, and Keith Hill ’80 with his son.

2004 Greater Chamber of Commerce. LORI DEVER is departmental assistant for CHRISTOPHER DYE married Brittany public affairs, BRYNN SALT is the Wilson on June 24, 2006 in Atlanta, Ga. director of publications, and THERESA He received his masters of music degree COOK ’06 is assistant vice president of in May from Columbus State University public affairs. and now lives in Lubbock where he is a band director at Frenship Middle Since graduation, TRAVIS HAWKINS School. has worked for KSNT 27 News in KELLY RABON is working as a news TOP: Marcie Topeka, Kan. In a year and a half he has reporter for WLOX. She is currently Hannemann JEFF ERICKSON and the rest of the quickly moved up from running audio reporting in the Gulf Coast, and resides Moehnke ’01 and personal training staff at Fitness to camera operator, editor, newscast Andrea Seay ’01 in Pascagoula, Miss. Together in College Station were voted director, and is now the station’s lead catch up at the “Best in the Brazos Valley.” homecoming lunch. director, working on the evening news. JENNA WALKER is an assistant producer on the “San Antonio Living Show” on BRIAN HALLETT and JENNIFER BOTTOM: Lisa After 20 years in the Air Force, PAT WOAI-TV. I (WEISE) HALLETT were married on Antwerp-Rangel ’86 MURPHY and his wife, Jeanna, are the and Brittany Mellum June 10, 2006. They live in San Antonio. new owners of Computer Link. They ’03 enjoy a Beta reside in Schertz. scrapbook. ERIN (SPESSARD) HILL married David Hill in June of 2005 at TLU. Erin works KATIE (MEYER) and ADAM SARGENT as a children’s ministry assistant at All alumni – keep in touch by sending the ’03 were married on June 17, 2006 in Central Baptist Church. They reside in Torch news about your wedding, children’s Pflugerville. The couple resides in Seguin. Bryan. births, career, achievements, graduate degrees, and other activities. As space allows, we also MELISSA (WICK) TROST married Joel will try to include additional information 2005 Trost on Sept. 2, 2006 at St. Andrew’s that you may send about children, spouses, weddings, or grandchildren’s births or Episcopal Church in Seguin. The couple AMANDA (WITTENBURG) and JAKE activities. We do not include engagements, COMPTON were married on July 23, resides in Granbury. pregnancies, and other impending news. 2005 in Edna. Amanda and Jake are Photos will be used as space and quality permit – photos will be published in the currently pursuing master’s degrees in 2006 Alumni Photo Album on the TLU Web site. exercise science from the University of Texas of the Permian Basin. ERICA (BECK) LEU married Aaron Please send your Torch items, new e-mail or Ta-tsung Leu at Resurrection Lutheran mailing address to [email protected] orTorch, There are now three recent TLU Church in Plano on June 3, 2006. The 1000 West Court St., Seguin, TX 78155. graduates working at the San Antonio couple resides in Austin.

AlumNotes • Torch Winter 2007 | 31

CATCHING UP WITH Rick Flores Changing lives

ick Flores is an exceptional band director, but to really understand what that means, you have to go back to his days at Burbank High R School in San Antonio.

“I was an inner-city kid who lived in a police officer, but he had no money. So but somehow Carol Hamilton (then a housing project surrounded by drugs Flores, who played trumpet in the financial aid director), who quickly and crime,” Flores said. Burbank High School band, decided to became my angel, figured out a way to But he was determined to beat the send out cassette audition tapes to a few make it work.” odds and not become another statistic. schools to pave the way. One ended up At Texas Lutheran, Flores found more He wanted to go to college and become in the hands of Lee Boyd Montgomery than a good band program. He found Jr., then Texas Lutheran’s director of meaning for his life. bands. Flores didn’t grow up in a religious When Montgomery came to the home, but he would go to chapel every projects, hoping to recruit the young Monday, Wednesday and Friday, and it trumpet player, Flores said he was touched him deeply. “If it wasn’t for shocked that someone would actually chapel and God’s grace, no telling where take time to visit him concerning his I would be,” he said. future. He related how different his fellow “Lee Boyd came to see me two or students’ lives were. He would visit his three times and got to know me. I didn’t college friend’s home for the weekend think I was smart enough because, and was amazed that they would support In 2004, Rick Flores even though I was ranked 16th in my one another and sit down to pray and was recognized as the graduating class, I only had a 520 on have dinner together. This had never Teacher of the Year in my SAT – that was a total on both parts! happened in his home. “God placed me Texas by the HEB I’m sure he had to talk to a lot of people at TLU to show me a different way of Excellence in Education Awards in to get me admitted, but I got in. He life,” he said. the Rising Star believed in me and that made a world Flores worked hard at TLU, including Category (teachers of difference!” his student teaching days. “It wasn’t until with less than 10 years The next obstacle was tuition. the Seguin High School band director of experience). “I was so intimidated by the money – told me, ‘One of these days, Rick, you’re

32 | Texas Lutheran University

CATCHING UP WITH

going to be a really fine band director,’ IMS band. Throughout the band hall are the key to their success in life is their The Irving Honor that I actually considered teaching.” posters encouraging excellence, effort education.” Band Program was In 1995 Flores graduated cum laude and teamwork. “We promote integrity, Each year Flores takes some of his recently awarded National Wind Band from TLU with a 3.6 GPA and degrees in character and commitment,” Flores said. students to the TLU Summer Music Honors, which recog- both music and sociology. He uses everything from problem solving Academy. “It is a very meaningful nizes the best band After graduation, Flores returned to and a buddy system to pasting stars on a experience for them,” he said. “They can programs in the San Antonio to teach at Truman Middle large poster to foster leadership, loyalty see things beyond where they now live nation. School in the Edgewood School District, and values. to where their lives may take them.” and seven years ago came to Washington The Irving band sets the standard He reiterated his gratitude to TLU Irving Middle School in the San Antonio for the SAISD. Recently the honor band and how the experience changed his life Independent School District (SAISD), placed fourth in the Texas Music so that now he can help others change just blocks from where he grew up. Educators Association 2C State Honor theirs. There were 149 students in the band Band Finals and also was awarded the “TLU will always have a special place program when he began. All of the National Wind Band Honors that in my heart because it provided me the crime, gangs and drugs that had been recognizes the best band programs in opportunity to do what I love. Many of part of his neighborhood were still there. the nation. This is the first time a SAISD the same obstacles and challenges I grew And at Irving, band was simply another band program has been recognized at up with in the barrio are very much alive elective. the state and national level. today. Crime, drive-by shootings, drugs, Flores credits a Bible study that he Flores continually challenges students and prostitution are all within steps of started for turning the program around. to dream big and not allow their environ- our school.” Although they have since had to stop, ment to dictate their level of success. Flores smiled, “Someone once said, it was the foundation for a band program “My kids know my story, and so I ‘When you understand your purpose in that is as much about character and really feel connected with them. My life it all begins to make sense.’ It is values as it is about clarinets and desire is to show them that there is a amazing that God has brought me back trombones. different way of life, much like TLU to this community – this is where I Today there are 297 students in the showed me. They must understand that belong.” I

Catching Up With • Torch Winter 2007 | 33

FIRST PERSON Music of the heart Confessions of a non-music major

By Rebecca Lowther ’06

34 | Texas Lutheran University

ne thing I have learned in my further. I had to connect to what I was heart, but music is the expression of my FIRST short 22 years of life is that you singing, to draw up that emotion from soul. It is an outpouring of praise to the PERSON O can never tell where your greatest the depths of my own experience and One who gave me the ability to sing influences will come from. I have then convey that to the audience. and an ever-present reminder that I am been in choirs since I was 4-years old Watching that much of yourself go out not alone. and have been singing since before I to other people can be scary, but the More than any other experience at “First Person” is could talk. That said, the day I stepped experience is life changing. It allows TLU, I loved choir the best. There were an original, in to Ayers Recital Hall for my first TLU you to connect to complete strangers these little moments of perfection that choir practice, I was nervous as all get and to communicate on a level far deep- just set my heart aglow and carried me personal piece out but pretty sure of what I would er than simple words and notes would through some of my darkest days. about any topic, encounter. What I didn’t realize was ever reach. As a choir of 50 or so, it was Moments like the first time we sang as a written by a that I was stepping into one of the most sometimes difficult to get everyone to choir; every year it’s a struggle of 50 student, faculty, defining experiences of my life. convey the same emotions, but the separate people trying to become one Although my time with the TLU labors proved to be well worth it. When that culminates in a magnificent chord staff, alumnus or choir did further my knowledge of we united in the message we conveyed, and surprises every one of us. I will friend of TLU. To music, I learned so much more than the song would take on a life of its own, never forget the first time we sang contribute or for that. Somewhere in the midst of shaking choir, director and audience to “Allelujah” in tune. It touched me so more information crescendos, legato lines and dissonant their very core. We became one sound, deeply that I was affected for hours. contact the chords I was instilled with a sense of one breath, one voice, one message. Moments like that will never leave me. how truly beautiful and fragile life is. I I stayed in choir all four years of They will resound on in my memory; a Torch editor at learned about humility, perseverance college, despite having to take an 18-hour quiet place where I can retreat in times [email protected]. and strength from my fellow choir course load my last two semesters. of trouble. No matter what I am going members and by watching our tireless Many people had trouble understanding through I will look back and remember director lead by example. why, as a non-music major, I would that I was part of something beautiful Dr. Boyer’s gentle spirit and enor- take on the additional workload of and perfect in its intention. I was a mous heart leave a powerfully lasting choir. The truth is that without choir, I member of the TLU Choir. I impression on all who have the honor never would have survived college. It to sing under his direction. “Go and was my outlet, my stress relief and at change the world,” he must have told times, even my life raft. Choir allowed Rebecca Lowther, a communication studies us at least a dozen times a year Dr. Boyer me to become simply a vessel for music. major, graduated in May from TLU with a inspires his students daily to reach Immersed in the glorious sounds we bachelor of arts degree. She was a member beyond their comfort zones and do could make as a group, I would allow of the TLU choir for four years. Lowther something truly great. He reaches deep all of the stress and pain of whatever I now lives in San Antonio. She continues to down inside of them and shows them was going through to wash away. stay in touch with TLU, Dr. Boyer, and the beauty waiting there. Each new student Writing may be the expression of my music in her heart. who traipses through the doors of Ayers Recital Hall on the first day of choir practice will one day walk out older and wiser and bearing a greater appreciation for the beauty in life. In addition to the life lessons gar- nered from my director and fellow choralists, I found myself deeply affect- ed by the choir itself. A choir is com- prised of many different people gather- ing their talents together to become one sound, one breath, one voice. That in itself is nothing short of miraculous. Being a member of the TLU Choir I was asked to take my performance a step

Becca Lowther has warm memories of being part of the choir – during practices and con- certs – such as this performance at the 2005 Excellence in Leadership dinner in San Antonio during her senior year.

First Person • Torch Winter 2007 | 35

Remember when ...

Do you recognize anyone from this photo? Keeping with our Torch theme on music, we found a photo of band members. Let us know when this photo was taken, who the people are and what was going on in the picture.

Last issue Although Seguin has had several floods, most agreed that our clean-up crew photo was taken following the 1972 flood in Seguin. Karen Miller, who lived on the river, recalls, “There were so many TLU students that volunteered to help clean up homes on the river that year. We were drained, emotionally Share your and physically, and I don’t know what we would have done memories of the had we not had my fellow students come to our rescue.” moment and Greg Riedel remembers, “We spent many hours shoveling mud from homes, then removing all carpeting and sheetrock identify those you from the walls. I remember walking down the street to find Donny Anderson ’76 reports that his work in the flood can by e-mailing an elderly woman sitting on the curb. I asked her if I could “oddly enough gave me good experience for Katrina last year [email protected] help her and she said, ‘not really- that’s all that is left of my at my home in New Orleans.” or writing to house.’ She was pointing behind her to a concrete slab that Thanks to all who responded. Not everyone was identi- the Torch at was completely stripped of all but a few stubs of plumbing. fied, and two still remain unknown – but from left to right Across the street I could see refrigerators that were perched are unknown, Greg Reidel (with shovel) ’73, unknown, Beth 1000 W. Court in the tops of the 60-foot pecan trees that lined the (Strot) Brooks ’75, Dan Daniels ‘75, Elling “Stosh” Larsen ’73 St. Seguin, TX Guadalupe River.” (sitting), and Bobby Reese ’75. I 78155.

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HAPPENINGS

Academic Events Cultural Events Sports Events

Conversations with Katrina: Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. TLU Choir Spring Tour Basketball Home Games 500 Days After the Deluge Concert, Featuring March 22-25 All games played at Symposium of writers, “Spiritual Voices” Houston and San Antonio Memorial Gymnasium photographers and artists 7 p.m., Jan. 14 areas Jan. 4 vs. LeTourneau 7 p.m., Feb. 8 Jackson Auditorium Home Concert Women: 5:30 p.m. Jackson Auditorium Hui-Chy Ying Exhibit 7:30 p.m., March 27 Men: 7:30 p.m. Spring Baccalaureate Jan. 18-Feb. 6 Chapel of the Abiding Jan. 6 vs. East Texas Baptist 10:30 a.m., May 12 Opening Reception: Presence Women: 1 p.m.; Men: 3 p.m. Jackson Auditorium 3:30-6 p.m., Jan. 18 “Happenings” is TLU Art Student Exhibition Annetta Kraushaar Gallery Jan. 11 vs. Sul Ross State a partial listing Spring Commencement April 5- May 2 Schuech Fine Arts Center Women: 5:30 p.m. of upcoming TLU 7 p.m., May 12 Opening reception: Men: 7:30 p.m. Chapel Lawn TLU Art Faculty Exhibition 3:30-6 p.m., April 5 events. All listings are Feb. 22-April 1 Annetta Kraushaar Gallery Jan. 13 vs. Howard Payne subject to change. Opening reception: Schuech Fine Arts Center Women: 1 p.m.; Men: 3 p.m. For more information 3:30-6 p.m., Feb. 22 on any of these A Special Tribute to Jan. 25 Annetta Kraushaar Gallery James Joyce vs. Mary Hardin-Baylor items, or to learn Schuech Fine Arts Center Featuring Laurel Thomas, Women: 5:30 p.m. what else is going The Vienna Choir Boys soprano; Brian Manaternach, Men: 7:30 p.m. on at TLU, please visit www.tlu.edu or 7:30 p.m., Feb. 23 tenor; and Jeffrey Jacob, Jan. 27 Jackson Auditorium pianist vs. Concordia-Austin call 830-372-8020. Tickets required 7 p.m., April 17 Women: 1 p.m.; Men: 3 p.m. Alumni Events Ayers Recital Hall XpressFest.07 Schuech Fine Arts Center Feb. 8 vs. McMurry Black and Gold Roundup The 7th Annual Festival of Women: 5:30 p.m. 6:30 p.m., March 30 Student Productions “A Funny Thing Happened Men: 7:30 p.m. Anne Marie’s 7:30 p.m., Feb. 23-24 on the Way to the Forum” San Antonio 3 p.m., Feb. 25 7:30 p.m., April 19-21 Feb. 10 Wupperman Little Theatre 3 p.m., April 22 vs. Hardin-Simmons Homecoming 2007 Schuech Fine Arts Center Jackson Auditorium Women: 1 p.m.; Men: 3 p.m. Oct. 5-7 TLU Campus TLU Band Concert TLU Band Concert 7:30 p.m., March 2 7:30 p.m., Friday, April 27 For a complete list of TLU Jackson Auditorium Jackson Auditorium athletic events, please visit our TLU Jazz Ensemble Web site at www.tlu.edu. Concert 7:30 p.m., March 23 Wupperman Little Theatre

Special Events

Front Row with Craig Biggio and Verne Lundquist 6:30 p.m., Feb. 13 Union Station at Minute Maid Park, Houston

Happenings • Torch Winter 2007 | 37

TEXAS LUTHERAN UNIVERSITY BULLETIN Periodicals Postage VOL. 77 JANUARY 2007 NO. 1 PAID TEXAS LUTHERAN UNIVERSITY BULLETIN (USPS 541-160) is at Seguin, Texas published four times yearly – January, April, May, September by 78155 Texas Lutheran University, 1000 W. Court St., Seguin TX Periodicals postage paid at Seguin TX and additional entry offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Texas Lutheran University, 1000 W. Court St., Seguin TX 78155