Spring 2021 CONCORDIA UNIVERSITY CHICAGO CONCORDIA UNIVERSITY

New Strategic Plan Focuses CUC’s Future Forester FEATURES Concordia Faith & Ministry: Wind Symphony Shares the Gospel University Back to the Future 9 “Coast-to-Coast” 20 Chicago Growing Our Mission 10 Lincoln Laureate Finds Vocation at CUC, Strives to Inspire Others 21

Spring 2021 page 16

ON THE COVER

Focusing Our Future 2025, IN EVERY ISSUE the University’s new five-year strategic plan, is an exciting President’s Column 4 and important step in CUC’s University Events 5 CUC News 6 pursuit of its vision.

Table of Contents of Table Alumni Association 26 Class Notes 28 Condolences 31 Forester Homecoming 2021

Charlie T. misses you! We’re making plans to welcome alumni and friends home to CUC this fall.

AFTER MORE THAN 14 A YEAR WITHOUT PERFORMANCES IN FRONT OF LIVE AUDIENCES, IT WAS A TRUE JOY TO BE ABLE TO PLAY AND LIFT OUR MUSICAL PRAISES TO THE LORD

—Dr. Richard Fischer, Wind Symphony Shares the Gospel “Coast-to-Coast,” p. 20

22 Celebrating Dr. Carl Schalk

Those who knew Dr. Carl Schalk HS ‘48, BS ‘52 express their gratefulness for his profound legacy.

EDITOR IN CHIEF CONTACT US MISSION Steadfast in Jesus Christ as revealed in the Holy Scriptures, Concordia University Eric Matanyi Forester Magazine: Chicago promotes academic rigor in its liberal arts and professional programs; grounds c/o University students in objective truth, integrity, and excellence; and practices faithfulness to the MANAGING EDITOR Communications & Marketing Confessional teachings of the Lutheran Church–Missouri Synod, as it forms students for Anna Seifert Concordia University Chicago vocations in church, family, and the world. DESIGNERS 7400 Augusta St. River Forest, IL 60305-1499 VISION Concordia University Chicago is a Christ-centered Lutheran university where truth, Tracy Vasquez freedom, and vocation form students for lives of influence and service for the common good. Andi Whipkey 708-209-3111 CORE VALUES We at Concordia University Chicago embrace these Core Values as essential to PHOTOGRAPHY [email protected] living together in a vibrant and influential Christian academic community and as productive Emily Adkins citizens of the Church and world. CONTRIBUTING WRITERS CHRISTIAN FAITH. The Christian faith INTEGRITY. Our community demonstrates the Charisse Burns is an integral part of our community. accord between our beliefs and practices. Paige Craig BA ’99, MBA ’14 Kylie Gilmore THE INDIVIDUAL. As a member of SERVICE. Recognizing and addressing Jeff Hynes God’s creation, each person is unique and the needs of others is a response to God’s Rev. Dr. Jeffrey Leininger is blessed with inherent worth. love for us, and a reflection of God’s love for them. Eric Matanyi EXCELLENCE. We strive for excellence Martina Reese in who we are and what we do. Anna Seifert Naomi Tselepis President’s Column

Optimism is in the air! Our newest group has been an integral factor in our ability to It has been the strength of the entire of graduates recently completed their weather the last year and a half. Concordia-Chicago community, across generations, which has sustained our degrees, the pandemic continues to ebb, With that in mind, it is significant that the institution throughout both the pandemic vaccines bring new hope, and sunshine University recently introduced its new, and recent operational changes. We asked and warm temperatures lift the spirits. five-year strategic plan, called Focusing our alumni and friends to stay hopeful, to We have also begun preparations for our Our Future 2025. Developed with input stick with us, and to provide support as we planned return to campus in August. I feel from faculty, staff, students, and alumni, faced uncharted waters—and you did so in very enthusiastic about the fall semester, and approved unanimously by the Board record numbers. but perhaps even more, I feel a sense of Regents, this plan lays the critical of relief! groundwork that will position CUC for Earlier this year, CUCelebrates, our annual That relief is rooted in the idea of what the a thriving future. It is about a heritage fundraising drive, realized a historic immediate future will look like: in-person of strength and fidelity in the midst of level of giving. Those who were unable instruction, full residence halls, and the uncertainty and change, stretching from to give monetarily provided support in meaningful face-to-face interactions that many generations past and reaching for any way they could, be it through prayer, define the traditional student experience. many generations to come. volunteerism, or advocacy for our mission. For many of us, focusing on the future This is incredible at any time, but is particularly inspiring this year as you continued your unbridled support despite facing your own myriad challenges! It is this unbreakable strength within the Concordia-Chicago community that truly gives me hope for the University’s continued growth and success. Thank you! We know that God works through His people, mercifully blessing others through our service. We stand assured, then, that God is working through each and every member of the Concordia-Chicago community to bless our students, the church, and the world around us. As we serve, we see that He is building a university that is stronger and more resilient than ever before. What a marvelous gift! As the higher education landscape, the needs of tomorrow’s students, and the world around us continue to evolve, Concordia-Chicago is uniquely positioned to thrive rather than merely survive. Optimism is in the air, indeed!

GOD IS WORKING THROUGH EACH AND EVERY MEMBER OF THE CONCORDIA-CHICAGO COMMUNITY TO BLESS OUR STUDENTS, Russell Dawn, DPhil, JD THE CHURCH, AND THE WORLD AROUND US. AS WE SERVE, President WE SEE THAT HE IS BUILDING A UNIVERSITY THAT IS STRONGER AND MORE RESILIENT THAN EVER BEFORE.

4 Summer & Fall 2021

JULY 16 Undergraduate Virtual Summer Preview Day 23-24 Issues, Etc. “Making the Case” Conference (hosted by CUC)

AUGUST 29 Opening Service of 158th Academic Year

SEPTEMBER

9 Cougars Connect On-Campus Visits 25 Maroon & Gold by Appointment Throughout the NOVEMBER OCTOBER summer and fall, 7 Chamber Orchestra Concert prospective students 1 University Band Fall Concert can take advantage of 11 Cougars Connect 11-17 Homecoming Week many opportunities 15 Jazz Band Concert 14 Cougars Connect to learn what CUC is all about. Schedule an 15-17 Golden Celebration DECEMBER individual in-person visit that is customized 16 Athletic Hall of Fame Celebration 4-5 Service of Lessons and Carols to your interests at: 16 Alumni Association Annual Meeting 10 University Band Christmas Concert CUChicago.edu/visit 17-19 Lectures in Church Music 17 Doctoral Hooding Ceremony; 29 Wind Symphony Home Concert Baccalaureate Service 31 Kapelle Home Concert 18 Fall Commencement

As of the date of publication, the University remains under Illinois Phase 4 Bridge COVID-19

University Events University guidelines, which place restrictions on events. CUC is optimistic that these restrictions will be lifted prior to the start of the fall semester, allowing the events above to proceed as planned.

Wind Symphony & Kapelle Home Concerts The University’s premier instrumental and choral ensembles, under the direction of Dr. Richard Fischer and Dr. Charles P. Brown, are delighted to return to in-person concerts this fall. Join us for a weekend of the finest traditional and contemporary repertoires. October 29 & 31

For the most current schedule and full event details, visit CUChicago.edu/events. 5 Spring 2021

CUC News

SURELY YOU DESIRE INTEGRITY IN THE INNER SELF,

AND YOU TEACH Students display the Dance Marathon end-of-night fundraising ME WISDOM total, which increased as post-event donations were received. DEEP WITHIN. —Psalm 51:6 (CSB) Concordia University Dance Marathon Raises More Than $20,000 for Children’s Hospital

Concordia University Dance Marathon (CUDM), a student-led on-campus organization, raised $20,461 at its fifth annual Big Event, bringing its five-year fundraising total to $83,622. Although they had to rethink the event due to COVID-related restrictions, the students’ tireless fundraising efforts allowed this year’s total to rival the last few pre- pandemic years.

The culminating event of the Dance Marathon season, the Big Event is just one small piece of the diligent fundraising that CUDM participates in over the course of the year. The money is raised for the philanthropy department of the Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago and goes toward new books, toys, instruments, the hospital’s annual Prom event, and anything else that gives the children who stay at Lurie’s an escape from “patient life.”

“As a program that has so heavily relied on face-to-face interactions in the past, it was definitely a challenge to get people excited through limited contact and countless emails. But the team God provided could not have been more suited for this challenge!” says Jesse Muehler, junior at Concordia-Chicago and executive director of CUDM.

6 CUC Joins Council for Online MBA Programs and Best Online honors as an individual to go along with Graduate Education Programs. her team’s success. Christian Colleges and Universities “As the University continues to face the “Concordia-Chicago is excited to add more global pandemic and the need for remote opportunities for female student-athletes. work, our online programs are more I want to thank Dirvelys Allen BA ‘07, spirit Concordia University Chicago has been pertinent to the needs of our students programs director; Jeff Hynes, senior vice named a member of an expansive network than ever,” says Provost Dr. Erik president for university advancement; and of more than 180 Christian institutions Ankerberg BA ‘92. “The hard work of our President Russell Dawn for their support worldwide, joining the Council for Christian dedicated faculty and staff allows us to of this new program,” notes athletics Colleges & Universities (CCCU). provide a high-quality education to our director Pete Gnan. The organization’s mission is to advance students, no matter their geographical “Being the first head STUNT coach the cause of Christ-centered higher location or life situation.” in Illinois is an incredible honor and education and to help its institutions U.S. News & World Report evaluated something I dreamed about since transform lives by faithfully relating online bachelor’s degree programs—where competing in STUNT myself,” Bielec says. scholarship and service to biblical CUC jumped in the rankings to No. 34— “Being able to create more opportunities truth. The organization provides unique on factors including graduation rates, for female athletes is something I am so services to Christian higher education financial benefits available to people with proud of.” in three pillars of strategic focus: public military experience, student debt upon advocacy, professional development and graduation, and academic and career scholarship, and experiential education. support services. Online MBA programs Students Contribute were evaluated based on admissions As a member, Concordia-Chicago will More Than $14,000 to be among an exclusive network of like- selectivity and reputation for excellence minded, mission-driven, academically among peer institutions, among other Help One Another excellent Christian colleges and factors. Online graduate education universities around the world. The programs were evaluated on factors As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to University will have access to CCCU- such as accreditation, accessibility of impact every aspect of society, many sponsored professional development instructors and student engagement. Concordia-Chicago students have conferences for a wide variety of experienced a variety of unexpected peer groups, as well as specialized development institutes for new faculty Cougars Announce members and emerging campus leaders. Launch of STUNT, “We are excited to join a broad network 19th Varsity Sport of peer institutions that share our strong dedication to providing students The University announced its plans to add with transformative, Christ-centered STUNT—the fastest-growing women’s educational experiences,” says President sport in the country—to its varsity roster Dr. Russell Dawn. “We look forward for the 2021-2022 school year. STUNT to working together—with a common is a competitive, cheer-based sport purpose—to innovate and set success focused on skills including partner benchmarks while we continue to make stunts, pyramids and tosses, jumping and the case for our meaningful work in the tumbling, and team routine. public sphere.” There are currently 48 STUNT programs in the NCAA as of 2020, including nine Online Programs Shine programs to be added in 2021. Concordia- Chicago is set to be the first university in U.S. News & World in Illinois to offer the program. New head Report Rankings coach Kelly Bielec previously won four STUNT national championships while In the recent U.S. News & World Report competing at Davenport University in rankings of online programs, Concordia- Grand Rapids, MI, in addition to three national championships at the NCA Chicago was recognized among the Best Concordia-Chicago is set to be the first (National Cheerleaders Association) level. Online Bachelor’s Programs, Best Online university in Illinois to offer STUNT, a She also earned First Team All-American Bachelor’s Programs for Veterans, Best competitive, cheer-based sport.

7 financial challenges. Fellow classmates, providing emergency grants for students Assistance funds can be used by through gifts to the Gard Student to meet immediate, essential expenses recipients to help defray the costs of Assistance Fund, have stepped up to help due to temporary hardship. expenses related to items including one another face these obstacles. medical care, food or transportation, Building upon the Gards’ financial lead, utility bills, sudden loss of housing Based on the principle of “students students contributed more than $14,000 or childcare, safety needs, essential helping students,” the Gard Fund was during the 2020-2021 academic year academic expenses, or replacement of developed through a partnership between to support the needs of their fellow essential personal belongings due to fire Rev. Dr. Daniel L. Gard, University classmates. This was accomplished or natural disaster. To date, the average president emeritus, and his wife, Annette; through direct gifts, returned fees due grant shared has been $225 per the Student Government Association; to residence hall shutdown, as well as student applicant. the Dean of Students Office; and the CUC account credits, which allowed students Foundation. This financial partnership with limited or no income to be able to To share directly to the Gard Fund, visit has enabled the University to address the provide for others. CUChicago.edu/GiveNow or call the CUC current crisis, as well as future ones, by Foundation at 866-448-3867.

Concordia-Chicago Regent Named President STUDENTS CONTRIBUTED of Concordia Seminary, MORE THAN $14,000 TO St. Louis SUPPORT THE NEEDS OF Concordia University Chicago Board of THEIR FELLOW CLASSMATES! Regents member Rev. Dr. Thomas Egger has been named president of Concordia Seminary, St. Louis (CSL). Egger began serving this spring as the seminary’s 11th president in its 182-year history.

“Given Rev. Dr. Egger’s faithfulness, intelligence and knowledge, it comes as no real surprise that he has been tapped to lead the St. Louis Seminary,” says CUC Board Chair, Dr. Dominic Salvino. “I am confident he will be an invaluable asset to the seminary as well as the Synod at large. He has been a highly valuable and productive regent at CUC and he will be missed.”

During Egger’s tenure on the Board of Regents, the University has seen record enrollment; the inauguration of a new president, Dr. Russell Dawn; and the development of a new strategic plan, “Focusing Our Future 2025.”

“Achieving our goal of becoming the best Lutheran university in America is dependent on the type of visionary leadership Rev. Dr. Egger exhibited as a member of our Board of Regents. It was an honor to have worked with him in this capacity, and I look forward to the opportunity to continue our missional work as presidents within the Concordia University System,” adds President Dawn.

8 SEND OUT YOUR LIGHT AND TRUTH; LET THEM LEAD ME. Faith & Ministry —Psalm 43:3

Back By: Rev. Dr. Jeffrey Leininger, University Pastor and Dean of the Chapel The future is forward. Faith is forward, too. Individuals, worshipping communities and to the Christian universities rightly attempt to chart a path through the uncertainty of what lies ahead. Although some of this feels rather corporate or even worldly to us, the process of strategic planning remains sanctified when done through the word of God and prayer, and Future when the goal remains the good of our neighbor and the glory of God. But another way of sanctifying this University’s planning for the future is to look backward and not just forward. The prophets of the Old Testament led largely with their backs to the future. That is, they looked back to what God had done for them in the past, recounted this salvation history, and then walked backward into the future. Their eyes stayed fixed on the past while their mouths reassured those who followed that He who has always been faithful will keep being faithful. It’s a counter-intuitive image—that of walking with your back toward the future. We normally imagine someone peering forward, step by cautious step, trying to navigate the unsettled and uncertain path ahead. But the prophetic model of “back to the future” can be a helpful one.

In the first place, we cannot see the future. No one can. “The best-laid schemes of mice and men/ Go oft awry,” the Scottish poet Robert Burns wrote after inadvertently overturning a mouse nest while plowing his field. All of our lives and the plans of many institutions of higher education have been unexpectedly overturned this past pandemic-panicked year. Indeed, in the same oft-quoted poem Burns acknowledges the anxiety of living with your back to the future: “And forward, though I cannot see, / I guess and fear!”1 The future cannot be predicted, controlled or cajoled, which is why in the evening service of Compline, Christians pray for God’s presence and protection “so that we who are wearied by the changes and chances of life may find our rest in You.” 2

So the image of walking with your back to the future accurately describes the reality of venturing into the unknown. But the Old Testament prophets also knew that by looking to who God had always been and what He had always done, they already had insight into the most important thing about the future—that God rules it.

This is true for Concordia-Chicago both institutionally and spiritually. God has preserved this University through war, depression, fire, economic uncertainty and, now, a worldwide pandemic. We can be confident that, looking to His providential preservation of this place, He’ll still be the same LORD no matter what the future holds. But even more importantly, walking with our backs to the future focuses our eyes on what’s most important.

As we look to the future, Our Lord has redeemed us in the faithfulness of Jesus; He has defeated the greatest we remember that God has enemies of sin, death and hell for us; His love is deep enough and shoulders broad enough preserved Concordia-Chicago for whatever the “changes and chances of life” might bring. So let’s plan, and move forward through war, depression, fire, in faith, but let’s do so with our backs to the future and our eyes on Jesus. economic uncertainty and, now, worldwide pandemic. 1Robert Burns, To A Mouse (1785), scottishpoetrylibrary.org.uk/poem/mouse 2Lutheran Service Book, 257 9 YOU ARE AN ESSENTIAL PARTNER IN OUR INITIATIVES TO EXEMPLIFY THE CONCORDIA-CHICAGO EXPERIENCE FOR STUDENTS AT EVERY LEVEL OF STUDY. —Jeff Hynes

Like many of you, my spring has been full of marking events and milestones from the Growing past year. Many of these anniversaries we may not prefer to recall, but they will forever be a part of our canon.

Our At the same time, I am joyfully reminded of the myriad blessings Concordia-Chicago has celebrated this year: increased efforts to flexibly and strategically meet the needs of our students; faculty, staff and students adjusting to a new learning context; and ministries Mission supporting the University community with a renewed sense of purpose.

Our community, including partners like you, stepped up to provide students with the tools necessary to lead and succeed in an ever-changing world. This year, we experienced a 51% growth in the number of alumni and friends sharing gifts, and hosted two record-setting giving events—Maroon & Gold, providing for scholarships, and CUCelebrates, funding the University’s greatest needs. We were particularly honored that our students chose to support one another during the pandemic through gifts totaling $14,000 to the Gard Student Assistance Fund.

Focusing Our Future: 2025 will further enhance our strategic efforts to advance the University. CUC’s Foundation is growing and shifting our team to accommodate the expanded opportunities that the University’s strategic plan will provide. We pray these individuals will become familiar partners for you in your philanthropic goals.

You are an essential partner in our initiatives to exemplify the Concordia-Chicago Experience for students at every level of study. From dedicated monthly gifts to investing in dynamic projects to planning for long-term impact, alumni and friends can get involved in the method that fits their season. We’re honored that three families have shared their giving stories in this issue, and our team would be delighted to help you determine the next steps in your own generosity goals.

Our academic theme this year was quite fitting for a community and world continually faced with change. Our students adjusted to a new As Paul wrote to the Corinthians, we ARE a new creation in Christ. Together we wait to learning context over the past learn what Christ has in store for each of us—his new creations. year, and were supported by the generosity of gifts from alumni God’s blessing, and friends.

Jeff Hynes Foundation President and CEO Vice President for University Advancement 10 Chicago’s Pillars Fund and utilize the monthly giving option. “We give back in appreciation for what Giving Monthly CUC taught me,” he says. “We want our donation to go wherever the Today Secures University has need.” Recurring monthly giving allows Tomorrow donors to support what’s important to them at the University on a schedule that fits their budget. For many donors, including those on a By: Charisse Burns, Manager of Annual Giving fixed income or beginning a career, donating a smaller amount every Brian Fruits BA ’03 can relate to the month can be easier rather than a difficult decisions CUC students face large, one-time gift. in today’s demanding educational environment. “I had to pay my whole Monthly gifts of any size impact way through college. We couldn’t afford students’ lives and allow CUC to for me to live on campus,” says Fruits. focus our future. Reliable donor “But I became a better professor, artist support provides sustainability and director through what I learned in while saving administrative costs. Concordia’s student teaching and Setup is easy when giving online. methods program.” Simply select the “Recurring Monthly Gift” option at April and Brian Fruits BA ‘03 Fruits and his wife, April, decided to CUChicago.edu/GiveNow. pay it forward by sharing to Concordia-

Michelle (Seris) BA ’11 and David Dwyer BA ’11, MBA ’12 with daughters Dani and Charli Investing in the Concordia- Chicago Experience

By: Paige Craig BA ’99, MBA ’14, CFRE, Assoc. Vice President, University Advancement & Alumni Relations

Michelle (Seris) BA ’11 and David Dwyer BA ’11, MBA ’12 have led at Concordia-Chicago for nearly 15 years, first as student- athletes and now as invested alumni. As members of the Class of 2011 Class Gift Committee, they learned early about the importance of philanthropy at their alma mater. continued on next page continued from page 11 Class of 2011 Scholarship Endowment GOD BLESSES US with a $10,000 dollar-for-dollar match. TO BLESS OTHER “We both grew up in homes dedicated to “Concordia-Chicago shaped much of who tithing. As adults, we felt the pull (to give) we are, and we want to show gratitude PEOPLE, AND IF YOUR despite our worldly desires to keep our by giving back. We believe the Class of TIME AT CONCORDIA money for ourselves. God always multiplies 2011 made an impact in many ways, and our gifts back to us—as hard as the beginning a scholarship ensured our class BROUGHT YOU JOY challenge was—in blessings greater than legacy would continue,” they add. THEN PASS THAT SAME we imagined,” say the Dwyers. “Concordia changed our lives and poured so much into “To anyone on the fence about giving, we OPPORTUNITY FOR JOY us, we want to directly enable someone would say you never regret generosity. TO OTHERS.” else’s chance of having their own amazing God blesses us to bless other people, and Concordia Experience.” if your time at Concordia brought you joy, —Michelle (Seris) BA ’11 and then pass that same opportunity for joy David Dwyer BA ’11, MBA ’12 During CUCelebrates 2021, the Dwyers to others.” challenged classmates to fully fund the

Leaving a Legacy for a Thriving Institution

By: Naomi Tselepis, Senior Philanthropy Advisor

Karen (Elam) BA ’78 and Herman Doering BA ’77 connected to Concordia-Chicago long before arriving as college freshmen. Originally from St. Louis, Herman attended Karen (Elam) BA ’78 and Herman Doering BA ’77 the University’s summer music program for Lutheran high school students. Karen training and encouraged their success in remain a thriving institution, preparing first visited campus in 7th grade with the business arena. students for their chosen career and classmates from the South Side of Chicago challenging them to become strong and for a Concordia-sponsored science fair. “The University instilled in us the core committed Christians dedicated to a life of Both knew early that Concordia-Chicago values of integrity, service and excellence, service,” she shares. was the college for them. while viewing each individual as special creation of God. That was the most While both began their careers as Lutheran important lesson of all,” notes Karen, To consult with a CUC Foundation schoolteachers, the Doerings eventually who currently serves on the University’s moved into the financial services industry. Foundation Board of Directors. philanthropic advisor, call toll They realized their Concordia-Chicago education was just as strong—if not Since Concordia-Chicago means so much free at 866-448-3867 or email stronger—than their Ivy League-educated to them, the Doerings decided to leave [email protected]. colleagues. The curriculum requiring a legacy gift and include the University Meet the entire Foundation team English, history and science as part of an in their estate plan. “Christ asks us to education degree provided well-rounded be good stewards. We want to help CUC at CUChicago.edu/Support.

12 Invites You to

Saturday, September 25, 2021

Whether in person or online, plan now to gather with alumni and friends for a special evening to celebrate and sustain CUC scholars.

2021 Distinguished Awardees

Lawrence Rast, Jr. BA ’86 Roosevelt Griffin III MA ’10 Judith (DeCoste) Duda BS ’58 Distinguished Alumni, Distinguished Alumni, Spiritus Christi Undergraduate Graduate

Give for Scholarships, Become a Sponsor and Purchase Golden Tickets at CUChicago.edu/MG2021 MONDAY-SUNDAY, OCTOBER 11-17

We’re making plans to welcome alumni and friends home this fall! Save the dates, October 11-17, to celebrate your Golden Legacy with classmates during Homecoming 2021. Festivities will feature Golden Alumni from the Class of 1971 and earlier, the 2020-21 Athletic Hall of Fame Inductees, the Alumni Association Annual Meeting as well as Cougars of every generation. Our plan reflects what we know today while discerning ever-changing COVID-19 protocols. Complete schedule of events coming soon!

14 CUC Athletics & Alumni Relations is honored to announce the Athletic Hall of Fame Celebration Homecoming Saturday, October 16

Honoring the 2020-21 Athletic Hall of Fame Inductees

Marianne (Kelm) Cotton BA ‘93, MA ‘94 Basketball & Volleyball

Paul Ebert BA ‘88 Football

Merrell Davis BA ‘13 Track & Field

Mike Marotta BA ‘10 Football

1970-1973 Men’s Tennis Teams four-peat Conference Champions

Event schedule and registration coming this summer at CUCHICAGO.EDU/HOMECOMING 15 Focusing Our Future

By: Dr. Russell P. Dawn, President

You may already be familiar with Concordia University Chicago’s Mission Statement, which we adopted in 2019. It reads:

STEADFAST IN JESUS CHRIST AS REVEALED IN THE HOLY SCRIPTURES, CONCORDIA UNIVERSITY CHICAGO PROMOTES ACADEMIC RIGOR IN ITS LIBERAL ARTS AND PROFESSIONAL PROGRAMS; GROUNDS STUDENTS IN OBJECTIVE TRUTH, INTEGRITY, AND EXCELLENCE; AND PRACTICES FAITHFULNESS TO THE CONFESSIONAL TEACHINGS OF THE LUTHERAN CHURCH—MISSOURI SYNOD, AS IT FORMS STUDENTS FOR VOCATIONS IN CHURCH, FAMILY, AND THE WORLD.

This is the foundation of everything we do as a university. It serves as the launching pad for new programs, sets the parameters for how we implement ideas, and supports everything we build. This is only fitting, because our mission is a timeless affirmation of all that a university ought to be—faithful, academically rigorous, and focused on the needs of students.

16 You may also be familiar with our Vision Statement, adopted in 2020. It reads:

CONCORDIA UNIVERSITY CHICAGO IS A CHRIST-CENTERED LUTHERAN UNIVERSITY WHERE TRUTH, FREEDOM, AND VOCATION FORM STUDENTS FOR LIVES OF INFLUENCE AND SERVICE FOR THE COMMON GOOD.

This vision is our goal or destination. It is how we see ourselves in both actuality and aspiration. All that we do—each program and activity, and all of them collectively—should move us into a fuller and more robust realization of our vision.

It would be possible for CUC to move from mission to vision, from foundation to aspiration, on a piecemeal basis. We could do this, implement it, then start another thing, and each one could move us in the right direction. Such an approach, however, would not be very strategic. Progress toward our goal would be spotty rather than integrated, and institution- wide success would be left more to wishful thinking than to careful planning.

We cannot rest the future of this historic place on such an approach. Instead, we need a strategic plan for improvement across the University, a bridge from our mission to our vision. We now have that bridge: a strategic plan we call Focusing Our Future 2025, or F2 for short.

F2 is an exciting and important step in CUC’s pursuit of its vision. It’s a five-year plan developed with input from faculty, staff, students, and alumni, and approved unanimously by the Cabinet and the Board of Regents. This plan lays the critical groundwork that will

17 position the University for a thriving future. It touches every aspect of University life in targeted ways that are both aspirational and achievable. It’s about our students, our finances, our mission, and our community.

Focusing Our Future contains 30 initiatives, or actions aimed at creating or improving something particular for the University. Each initiative fits into one of four categories or themes. Broadly speaking, those themes are students, finances, mission, and University EACH INITIATIVE community. Each initiative is specific and measurable, and each has an “owner,” a member of staff who is responsible for implementing the initiative and reporting on its progress. IS SPECIFIC AND This is not pie-in-the-sky, it’s a living plan to achieve lived success for the sake of MEASURABLE, AND our students. EACH HAS AN ‘OWNER,’ The first of the four themes isFormative Student Experience. Theme 1 states that Concordia-Chicago will provide a formative student experience by promoting academics, A MEMBER OF STAFF co-curricular activities, and pre-professional experiences that enable students to live out WHO IS RESPONSIBLE the University’s mission, vision, and values. Theme 1 contains 10 different initiatives, each focused on a formative student experience. FOR IMPLEMENTING THE INITIATIVE AND For instance, one initiative calls for a revision of our general education curriculum (that is, the classes that all our four-year undergraduates are required to take), such that the REPORTING ON classes are tailored toward forming students through truth, freedom, and vocation for lives ITS PROGRESS.” of influence and service for the common good. In other words, we aren’t just crossing our fingers in hopes that our students emerge with certain outcomes—we’re doing the heavy —Dr. Russell Dawn lifting that will help ensure those outcomes.

The second theme of F2 is Fiscal Agility and Strength. Theme 2 states that Concordia- Chicago prioritizes the strategic use of data, a commitment to best practices in enrollment management, the development of market-informed programs, and acts of fiscal discipline as means of ensuring student completion and securing the University’s future. Theme 2 contains seven initiatives, each focused on fiscal agility and strength.

One of the key initiatives under Theme 2 entails investing in missional, market-focused programs. All academic programs will correlate closely with CUC’s mission as well as market demand. In order to achieve this, we are developing a program review protocol to evaluate academic programs regularly, phase out those that are ready, and implement new ones. We will also hire strategically so that mission, academic excellence, and market niche are supported throughout the organization.

The third theme is Partnerships for Mission and Excellence. Theme 3 states that CUC will identify and carry out partnerships that benefit both CUC and the partner, and contribute to the common good.

Theme 3 also contains seven initiatives. The first of these calls for CUC to establish advisory councils for the colleges. Each council will provide guidance, establish reciprocal relationships, and evaluate partnerships to ensure quality, consistency, and value. College advisory councils will extend CUC’s network of important connections in thoughtful ways.

The fourth and final theme of F2 is aVibrant Unified Community. Theme 4 states that CUC strives to develop, live, and share a common vision for our work together. Theme 4 contains six initiatives, each focused on building the unity of our community.

A key initiative within Theme 4 is one we sometimes call hiring for mission. It calls for the implementation of procedures to instill the University’s Lutheran mission and identity throughout faculty and staff hiring and development processes. It is sometimes said that personnel is policy, which simply means that having the right people and training them well is far more important than having the right policies and procedures in place. Both matter, of course, but people matter more. 18 F2 is both solid and dynamic. It won’t sit on a shelf collecting dust, a monument to the current moment in our thinking about the future. Neither, however, will it follow whims or trends that may arise tomorrow and evaporate the next day. It will remain a true and reliable roadmap for achieving our vision, which includes the flexibility for thoughtful change.

Ultimately, Focusing Our Future is about the pursuit of truth, which is the core of any ULTIMATELY, FOCUSING education worth having. The pursuit of truth equips students for the freedom and self- governance that will make them the beating heart of their communities. And it is in OUR FUTURE IS ABOUT Christian freedom that our students will live out their vocations, serving their churches, THE PURSUIT OF TRUTH, families, and society. In this way, F2 will ensure our heritage of strength and fidelity in the midst of uncertainty and change, stretching from many generations past and reaching for WHICH IS THE CORE OF many generations to come. ANY EDUCATION WORTH HAVING.”

—Dr. Russell Dawn

Read the complete strategic plan online and download a printable copy at CUChicago.edu/ strategic-plan.

19 The Wind Symphony performs during a live broadcast at Sheboygan Lutheran High School in Wisconsin.

In a time when live sacred music opportunities are scarce, and physical distancing is still Wind the norm, Concordia University Chicago’s Wind Symphony partnered with Sheboygan Lutheran High School’s Symphonic Band to present a virtual concert event, “From Coast to Coast: Praising Father, Son, and Holy Ghost,” on March 12. The two schools partnered to Symphony offer congregations unique and meaningful access to a sacred music repertoire amid the pandemic.

Shares The event was broadcast live from Lutheran High’s brand-new Worship and Fine Arts Center, which was dedicated last November. More than 65 LCMS churches and Christian the Gospel organizations from 37 states, along with participants from Canada and South Korea, tuned in to celebrate in song. The musicians followed COVID-19 safety protocols by physically distancing, cleaning and sanitizing chairs and equipment, and wearing performance masks “Coast-to- during rehearsals and performances. Coast” “Under different circumstances, my music groups and I would have been gearing up for our biennial Spring Music Tour around that time,” said Matt Thiel, music director at Sheboygan Lutheran. “When the decision was made to cancel this year’s tour, it was pretty devastating to the students. It was a true gift and pleasure for them to be in The event the presence of fellow Christians, states away, and join provided the together in honoring our Lord and Savior through music.” musicians “After more than a year without performances in front of with a rare live audiences, it was a true joy to be able to play and lift opportunity our musical praises to the Lord,” said Dr. Richard Fischer, to perform in conductor of the Wind Symphony. “With so many people front of a live tuning in, the concert was reminiscent of the day when we audience. will all join together again in His Kingdom, praising our Lord and Savior forevermore.”

20 Lincoln Laureate Finds Vocation at CUC, Strives to Inspire Others

By: Anna Seifert, Communications Associate “Even during the darkness of the COVID Michael Arango helped me become the pandemic, human achievement still shines person I am today for always believing in me The Lincoln Academy of Illinois continued and gives us hope for a better future.” on and off the field,” he says. Medina also its annual tradition of bestowing served as a freshman peer mentor for a the Student Laureate awards on an Medina, a criminal justice and political special topics course and as a subject tutor outstanding senior from each of the science major from Cicero, IL, says for various political science and criminal four-year colleges and universities in it was an honor to receive the award, justice courses. Illinois. “It was amazing to find out that which consisted of a Lincoln medallion, I had been selected to be CUC’s Lincoln certificate and stipend. “I am grateful Laureate,” says Gerardo Medina, Concordia that I was selected, especially during this WITH THE GUIDANCE OF MANY University Chicago’s 2020-21 awardee. pandemic,” he says. The virtual Laureate “This recognition means so much to me ceremony featured remarks from Illinois PEOPLE I WAS ABLE TO WIN because it proves that with hard work and Governor J.B. Pritzker, as well as past THIS AWARD AND PROVE TO dedication you can truly achieve anything Laureate winners such as columnist you set your mind to.” George Will and Duke University’s FUTURE STUDENTS THAT “Coach K,” Mike Krzyzewski. ANYTHING IS POSSIBLE. With pandemic-related regulations not allowing for the usual in-person awards The Lincoln Academy’s challenge to the —Gerardo Medina BA ‘21 gathering, in which laureates are invited to laureates this year was: “Live your life in the Old State Capitol in Springfield, the fall the spirit of Abraham Lincoln, providing “I really enjoyed discovering my vocation 2020 ceremony was held virtually. leadership that inspires and transforms at CUC,” he says. “When I began college I the world. Model courage, empathy, had no idea what I wanted to study. I finally “This significant award is not diminished honesty and integrity, and spread hope began taking political science courses, by the fact that we cannot assemble and joy to a planet that desperately needs where my love for the law began. I owe together in one body. We can still join your talents and skills.” a special thanks to all the professors I together in mind and spirit,” said Ronald had over the years, especially Dr. Robert Spears, vice chancellor of the Lincoln Medina played on the men’s soccer team for Hayes CQ ‘74, MA ‘76, who pushed me Academy, during his video address. all four years at Concordia-Chicago. “Coach academically and presented opportunities for me to find out if I wanted to be a lawyer.”

In the fall, Medina will be attending law school at the University of Illinois on a full scholarship. “I hope to discover which type of law I will practice during my time there,” he says. “Whatever I end up doing, I will always strive to help marginalized communities and give people opportunities to have success in life.”

Medina says he will forever appreciate the lifelong friends he made at CUC, as well as the support of his family, whom he calls “my pillar during my undergraduate experience.” Medina adds, “With the guidance of many people I was able to win this award and prove to future Gerardo Medina BA ‘21 was named the 2020-21 Lincoln Laureate students that anything is possible.” for excellence in academics and extracurricular activities. 21 Celebrating the Life and Legacy of DR. CARL

CHALK1929-2021

r. Carl Schalk HS ’48, BA ’52, distinguished professor emeritus of music, had an immeasurable impact on Concordia UniversityD Chicago, The LCMS, Christianity and beyond. His students and collaborators, as well as the broader Church and world, have been blessed by his musical compositions, wisdom, humor and gentle spirit. After 91 years of walking in our Lord’s footsteps, he was called to heavenly home in January.

As a musician, Carl was always creating, even writing a sung prayer for the friends who brought him meals in his final months of life. According to his son, Tim, Carl often said his favorite hymn tune was “the one I’m working on now.” He composed so much in his post-retirement years, having a pure joy for doing so, that some of his work is yet to be published.

As a Christian, Carl viewed music as his opportunity to use his God-given talents to serve the church and proclaim the Gospel. He also embodied Christian values through his interactions with others, treating everyone he met equally as a child of God.

As an educator, Carl was more than simply a teacher to his students. He was known to have high expectations, but balanced those with endless patience and a deep sense of caring.

His profound legacy will continue to live on through his music. It also lives on through all those whose lives he touched, and his story is, perhaps, best seen through the eyes of others. The memories shared on the following pages only begin to scratch the surface of the vastness of Carl’s influence on so many.

Photos courtesy of the Schalk family. Carl conducting at the Chicago Archdiocese Choral Festival in 1977.

ne of my distinct memories from growing up was hearing hat Carl and his colleagues established was that church Dad plunking away at the piano, composing, recomposing music itself was a discipline and something you could “orO altering music. “pursueW a career in; not just something you did after work as a hobby. It’s hard to overstate how important that was. He made it so The older I’ve gotten, the more I have appreciated what he brought you came out of Concordia with a degree in church music, which to the family as far as faith and worship. It probably wasn’t until was unheard of before that. high school that I realized when you go to church, you don’t have to go an hour ahead of time! That was always something we did One of the greatest blessings a person can have is a sense of because either Dad was playing for a service or directing choir, purpose, and he gave a lot of young musicians that. He and his with warmups and rehearsals ahead of time. colleagues created a huge network of Lutheran church musicians, for whom music ministry is their purpose and their joy in life. I look back on Christmas Eve, always a packed evening with two children’s services, a regular service and a midnight service. After Carl was winsome and had a great sense of humor. These last few all that we still took time to sit down at home and read the birth years, we would often go out for lunch at Bakers Square in Melrose story, and my sisters and I would go around and each pick out a Park. When the hostess would ask where we wanted to sit, Carl carol to sing. would always say, ‘We want something with a view of the lake.’ I think he was known for that joke with the restaurant staff. Dad was always looking to use his gifts to help serve the church, whether through music compositions, books he’s written, letters And he wrote a lot of music. Carl had a special gift for writing or workshops. He didn’t hesitate to help with requests to write a hymn tunes that were singable and memorable. He was good hymn for an occasion. He’s written things for percussion, bells—all musician and a good churchman—he kept alive both worlds, and kinds of different instruments—because that was the instrument a showed us how to do that. Looking back on their life, if someone particular church, choir or group had, so he composed something can say they accomplished something as big as that, that’s quite to utilize that. a life of service.”

When there were big life events in the family, such as marriages —Barry Bobb BA ’73, MCM ’78, or grandchildren being born, he would write a hymn tune in director of the Center for Church Music celebration. Even in not-so-good situations, he used his musical talents to write words of encouragement and uplift. He felt very strongly about worship being used to proclaim the Gospel, and was very consistent with that message throughout his life.”

—Tim Schalk BA ’80, son of Carl and Noël Schalk

Carl with the Kapelle in 2019.

23 Carl the Carl the HRISTIAN EACHER

very aspect of my college and ing it as if you know it,’ Carl once post-graduate years was closely quipped to the Grace Choir as “intertwinedE with Dr. Schalk and his “performance‘S time neared on something wonderful gifts, talents and generous we were struggling to learn for a Cantata teaching contributions. His fantastic Vespers. I’m sure he uttered something wife Noël was also hugely impactful in my heavenward as well, praying that we might college life, providing immeasurable wisdom indeed discover that this piece of music and guidance. Thank you Dr. and Mrs. Schalk was about more than singing the notes. My for lives and careers well lived.” dad, Herb Gotsch, once explained to me that Carl’s great gift as a composer was the —Dan Homp BA ’73, MCM ’84 ability to write good and interesting music that was simple enough for an ordinary sang in Chapel Choir at Concordia Carl and Noël Schalk church choir to master.” Teachers College in fall 1971 when I at their wedding. “startedI my path in Lutheran education. I will —Gwen Gotsch always remember how he instructed me in one line of Beautiful Savior: ‘You must first r. Schalk suffered through love Christ before you serve Him.’ Thanks be several quarters of organ lessons Carl the to God for the faith He gave Carl that would “Dwith me. His mellow sense of humor and CHURCH be expressed in his music.” musical insight taught me well. As he joins the Heavenly throng, we who knew him USICIAN —Ronald A. Brauer BA ’75 recognize that blessing!”

had the privilege of attending the 2019 —Avis (Kraft) Chmielewski ’74 hat a blessing he was not only to Lectures in Church Music conference Concordia-Chicago, but also for rateful for all I experienced from his “allW his music.” “whenI the Kapelle premiered Dr. Schalk’s new setting of the service of Evening teaching, writing and leading. During G —Debbie (Hays) Roberts BA ’83 Prayer. What inspired me the most from “this season of pandemic, I became the de facto organist for our church. I could that evening was the example he set of a e was such a gift to the church and not have done it without remembering his man with a vocation. Even though Dr. Schalk his music will continue to be a gift wisdom. Soli Deo Gloria!” had been retired for several years, that “forH generations to come.” did not mean a lessening of his continued —Lori (Brelje) Sievert BA ’82 service to the church. That is the dedication —Heidi (Weirich) Goehmann BA ’02 that I hope to embody through my own life.” early everything I needed to know had the privilege to have been under about being a parish musician, —Peter Stigdon BA ’22 his direction for Festival Chorus and “NI learned from him. With angels and “oneI year in Kapelle choir. One of my favorite archangels and all the company of Heaven. choral pieces to this day is one he arranged Thanks be to God.” to the poem ‘Lord It Belongs Not to My Care.’” —Valerie Schoen BA ’87 —Lois (Ramsey) Linnemann BA ’83 ternal light! Thanking God for ne of the great hymn writers of a wonderful composer, church our generation, one of the great “musicianE and teacher. He was a wonderful “LutherO music scholars, and one of the most teacher and mentor to me!” important early influences on my becoming —David Anderson BA ‘84, MCM ‘89 a composer. I was fortunate to grow up at Grace Lutheran Church and School and sing many works by Paul Bouman, Richard Hillert Carl in the Rare Book Room, and Carl Schalk. An incredible influence on now the Center for Church so many church musicians.” Music, with two CUC students. —Hollis Thoms BA ’71 24 first met Carl in person more than 20 years ago, during my first year as a member of the CUC music faculty. I “wasI intimidated by his larger-than-life presence, but his jovial character immediately put me at ease. Over the years, he consistently provided me with new music and wise advice; our relationship was always warm and kind. For me, it always felt like Carl was a member of my family.

To spin a comment once made by Anton Armstrong, Carl was the ‘godfather’ of Lutheran church musicians. As I’ve toured the country with CUC’s performing ensembles; just mentioning Carl’s name has brought esteem to our programs. A few years ago, he came to campus to work with the Kapelle choral ensemble before the premiere of his setting of Evening Prayer. The students were very excited to meet him and witness his response to their performance.

CUC’s students also couldn’t imagine an annual Lessons and Carols Inter-Lutheran Commission on Worship, service without ‘Noël, Noël,’ which was written by Carl for his Hymn Music Committee in 1976. wife, Noël. Years ago, students would get excited about ‘Schalk sightings,’ when Carl and Noël would attend and be seen holding hands during the performance of that piece.

That Carl was much revered by the students became clear to me when he passed away. As we rehearsed one of his pieces soon He used his musical afterward, there was an extra special energy to the music; the emotion in the room reflected how much he meant to us.” talents to write words of —Dr. Charles Brown, CUC professor of music encouragement and uplift. was blessed to write a number of hymn and choral anthem texts that Carl chose to set to music. Although he is a IM CHALK T S BA ’80 “generationI older than me, we were colleagues on the faculty in my early years at CUC, before he retired. It took a while for me to get up the courage to show him my hymn texts. Our first collaboration s a college student, I remember singing the hymn of the was the Christmas anthem ‘Welcome, Precious Infant Lord’ in day at a worship service—and the song elicited this deep 2009. Our last collaboration was another Christmas anthem, “emotionalA response that I wasn’t able to put into words. I later ‘Word Made Flesh to Dwell Among Us,’ which he wrote during the learned that it was a Schalk piece, and so I was realizing the power pandemic, and which premiered this past December. of his music from the start of my career. Carl was an iconic figure who I always felt privileged to work with. I am so fortunate to have known Carl in many different ways: At the same time, he was a warm, friendly and approachable as a colleague, a performer of his music and a listener of his person with a dry sense of humor. By setting my work to music, compositions. That unique perspective allowed me to realize Carl lent credibility to my texts and helped advance my career as a how intensely his personality and faith were reflected in his hymn-text writer. compositions. His music represents the deepest parts of him. When he finished setting one of my texts to music, he always Carl created a uniquely American music style that is influenced invited me to his home. After he made us a pot of coffee, we would by a wide range of European source material, from Germanic to go his office, listen to the piece and talk briefly about it. Typically Slovak to Scandinavian music traditions. For instance, J.S. Bach the discussion would morph into Carl telling engaging stories, preached the Gospel through a deliberate use of harmony, rhythm always tinged with humor. Because of the pandemic, we were not and text settings. Carl’s music builds on that same structure, while able to discuss our final collaboration in person, but he was witty to adding his own unique imprint. He created a music repertoire that the end. His email at the completion of that piece read, ‘Between is exceptionally profound yet also approachable by both trained hunkering down and washing my hands, I have set your text for musicians and lay congregation members. It’s music that lives in organ and SATB.’” you; it becomes ingrained in you as a Christian.” —Dr. David Rogner BA ’82, CUC professor of English —Karen Brunssen, CUC music faculty 1979-1993

25 Beyond the Pillars: Alumni Invited to + Mentor Students through A successful Beyond the Pillars mentor and mentee: double Vocations major in marketing and actuarial science Antea Pela BA ’21 was paired with business leader Josh Wingfield BA ’10

By: Kylie Gilmore, He isn’t just planning the program, Beyond the Pillars’ virtual format and Manager of Alumni Relations though—Enderle served as mentor for digital tools allow alumni to mentor two candidates of CUC’s superintendent students no matter where they serve, Concordia-Chicago’s Alumni Association preparation program during the 2020-2021 lead or study. Wingfield is regional vice mission is “to connect and engage alumni, academic year. This beta test year allowed president for Humana in Seattle, WA and present and future, in order to inspire the Alumni Association, Career Services finds serving in this way both beneficial greater contribution to the University’s and other campus partners to hand-select and important. “To mentor someone new legacy.” Its Board of Directors, driven 10 pairs of participants from every level to the workforce who shares the CUC to strengthen relationships between of study to review the program’s impact connection is a unique experience and one generations of alumni, is proud to launch and sustainability. Monthly newsletters that I have very much enjoyed,” Wingfield the Beyond the Pillars Mentoring Program, provided topical guidance for mentoring says. “I’m happy to be that someone who serving both current and former students. relationships while also checking in on has been in the workforce and there to participant progress. bounce things off. I know I would have Beyond the Pillars, one of 30 initiatives appreciated this opportunity.” of CUC’s “Focusing Our Future: 2025” Recent graduate Antea Pela BA ’21, a strategic plan, matches pairs of students double major in marketing and actuarial The Alumni Association Board of Directors and alumni based on their mutual vocation science, and Josh Wingfield BA ’10 were invite fellow volunteers to register and passion for Christ. Alumni will connect just one positive pairing. “I was excited today to begin their own Beyond the monthly with current students during to connect with someone who could give Pillars mentoring partnerships this fall. the academic year to provide tips and business advice and who also has that Alumni can sign up to be matched with guidance relevant to their academic ‘math mind,’” said Pela. “(Josh and I) just current students at CUChicago.edu/ pursuits and quest for Truth. think so much alike, and his advice felt BeyondthePillars. Additional questions natural. We clicked instantly as a mentor can be directed via email to alumni@ Paul Enderle BA ’93, MA ’98, EdD ’14, and mentee.” CUChicago.edu or call the Office of Alumni Superintendent of Oak Lawn-Hometown Relations at 888-258-6773. District 123, has served on the Board of Directors since 2018 and is a founding member of its Connection subteam. Enderle envisions, “Beyond the Pillars will keep alumni connected to our alma Register to be a CUC Mentor Today! mater and its extensive network, while establishing purposeful relationships that Partnerships Begin September 2021 stretch beyond the campus into the lives of current students.” Visit CUChicago.edu/BeyondthePillars for more information

26 Your Monthly Gift Will Impact Students You Will Focus Our Future

Ken BA ’62 and Mary Werring When you give for CUC students, you give monthly to CUC to help enable freedom to study without financial support music programs. worries. When you share regular, monthly “It moves me every time I hear gifts you give in a cost-effective manner that music by the wind symphony is manageable for your personal budget. and choirs,” says Ken, “We have been blessed by the Lord Monthly Gift Annual Impact in many, many ways and we are $10 $ 120 happy to return these blessings. $25 $ 300 Prayerfully our gifts encourage $50 $ 600 church work students in the $85 $1,020 music field.”

Setting up monthly giving is easy. Simply select “Recurring Monthly Gift” at CUChicago.edu/GiveNow or call 866-448-3867 for assistance. Congratulations to CUC alumni recently recognized by the Lutheran Education Association as 2021 Distinguished Educators, including Mark Brink BA Spring 2021 ’75 (Christus Magister), Ruth Wiedenmann BA ’76 (Elementary Teacher) and Kenneth Palmreuter BS Class ’62 (Retired Educator). Notes

1960s Roommates from the Class of 1966 and their spouses enjoyed a cruise through the Panama Canal in January 2020 to celebrate the birthday of John Felten BS ’63. Those traveling included (left to right) front row: Chris (Bormann) Kirchenberg, Dottie (Berndt) and John Felten, Kathy (Walle) and Tom Eggold BA ’68, and Phil Bruening. Back row: Al Braun, Marnie (Siehr) Smith, Pat (Strom) Fege, Diane (Christian) Boehm, Rosie (Hinck) Braun and Alice (Wilson) Bruening.

1970s

Ron Allen BA ’72 entered retirement in December 2020 after 37 years of teaching (Luther South, Chicago; St. John’s College, Winfield, KS; and Concordia University, Ann Arbor) and 12 years of full-time pathology research (University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor). In 2021 he has been spending more time with wife Jan (Drafall) BA ’71 and eight grandkids in Michigan and Wisconsin. He feels blessed to have touched the lives of students over the past 49 years.

28 1990s

Rev. Dr. Jason Soenksen BA ’95 published a commentary in December 2020 on Micah for Concordia Publishing House’s Concordia Commentary Series. Soenksen currently serves as a professor of theology at Concordia University Wisconsin.

2000s

John Clancy BA ’07 was named an assistant basketball coach at John A. Logan College in August 2020. Previously, Clancy coached four years at Southern Illinois University.

Laura (Renzelmann) Robinette BA ’07 Nancy (Fischer) BA ’74 married and husband Matt will celebrate their one Dave Jacobs at Vrooman Mansion in year anniversary on June 20, 2021. Due to Bloomington, IL on Dec. 22, 2019. Nancy COVID-19 restrictions, only 11 guests were retired in 2011 from teaching after a present at the June 2020 wedding in New combined 37 years at Trinity Lutheran Haven, IN but a larger celebration with the School (Sheboygan, WI) and Sheboygan full wedding party took place in September Area Schools. Dave retired from Pekin of 2020. The couple resides in New Haven, Insurance in 2007, and they reside in IN, where Laura teaches 4th grade at Normal, IL. Central Lutheran School.

1980s

Kathie (Oakes) Ziebarth BA ’87 has been reinstated as a Deaconess serving in the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod and is serving as a substitute high school teacher while seeking a call. She lives in Elk River, MN with her husband Dale. They have two grown children.

2010s

Blythe (Harkenrider) BA ’14, MA ’16 & Anthony Barreto BA ’13 welcomed their daughter Zoya Marie in March 2020. They currently serve at Lutheran High North in Houston, TX where Anthony serves as athletic director/dean of students and Blythe teaches theology. 29 Ryan Weseloh BA ’17, pictured on left with former housemate, serves as Coordinator of Operations & Development for L’Arche Chicago, a community that provides housing for adults with intellectual disabilities. Weseloh began at L’Arche as a live-in assistant and became house coordinator two years later. He credits his Christian ministry degree, campus activities and work in CUC’s Office of Alumni Relations in preparing him for these roles.

Jennifer (Kotyk) Barborak MA ’18 is serving as the Director of Buhl Regional Health Foundation in Sharpsville, PA, a role she began in September 2020.

Courtney “CJ” McFarland MS ’19 is using 2020s his master’s in strength and conditioning Kara Bratton PhD ’20 was selected as one as personal coach for Baker Mayfield, of 20 participants for the Early Career starting quarterback for the NFL’s Researcher Workshop offered by the Cleveland Browns, a partnership that Council for Exceptional Children Division began in the 2019 offseason. He also works of Research in January 2021. Bratton also with Glenn Sparkman (Minnesota Twins, joined the part-time faculty at Concordia MLB), Gar Robinson (IMSA Race Car Driver University Irvine in spring 2021 teaching and winner of the 24 hours at Daytona), graduate courses in special education. and Nick Lima (FC Austin, MLS) to prepare for their professional athletic seasons.

About Class Notes Information listed reflects details received as of Feb. 28, 2021. The University welcomes news in the lives of our alumni. To ensure accuracy, information should be provided by the featured individual, rather than another party. Photos are welcome, whether prints or electronic files, however we do not return prints. Submission of a Class Note or image does not guarantee publication. The University reserves the right to edit submissions for style, length and content.

Submit a Class Note! The University welcomes news in the lives of our alumni. For submission consideration, please send information and optional photo to [email protected].

30 Condolences BUT THANKS BE TO GOD, WHO GIVES US THE VICTORY THROUGH OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST FACULTY & STAFF —1 Corinthians 15:57 Ginny Illich – January 20, 2021 Campus Events Coordinator (2008 – 2015) Walter Martin BS ’52 – October 13, 2020 Professor Emeritus of Art (1957 – 1995) Carl Schalk HS ’48, BS ’52 – January 24, 2021 Professor Emeritus of Music (1965 – 1993)

ALUMNI

Henry Albrecht BS ’54 - March 24, 2019 Karen (Kalbfleisch) Lind BA ’65 - January 28, 2021 John Allan BS ’57 - February 15, 2020 Lucille Luebke BS ’47 - June 1, 2015 John Allen Jr. BA ’77 - October 22, 2019 Walter Martin BS ’52 - October 13, 2020 James Appelt HS ’46 - July 18, 2015 Shirley (Plunk) Marty BS ’54 - October 19, 2020 Annette (Kaun) Bachmann BS ’56 - December 14, 2020 Hannah (Aren) Mathias BS ’96 - November 25, 2020 Elaine (Bode) Baeuchler BA ’68 - June 9, 2019 Paul McCain BA ’84 - November 25, 2020 Joseph Beatty BA ’90 - February 28, 2021 Erwin Metz MAE ’73 - December 18, 2019 Irene Bergstrom HS ’47 - January 19, 2019 Dorothy (Borchers) Neumann BS ’46 - August 10, 2019 Darlene (Seddelmeyer) Brady BAE ’73 - February 10, 2015 Chuck Novak CQ ’81 - January 13, 2021 Ethan Brauer MA ’70 - January 24, 2021 Jean (Kaiser) Prochnow BS ’58 - December 18, 2017 Arthur Brown BS ’60 - September 19, 2020 Christine (Rex) Rather BAE ’80 - June 13, 2020 Beverly (Schiefelbein) Claxton HS ’49, BS ’53 - October 25, 2015 Norman Roger BS ’31 - October 1, 1985 Coral (Stoffregen) Deady HS ’49, BS ’58 - September 3, 2020 William Rohe BA ’69 - December 11, 2020 Wilbur Decker BS ’53 - August 11, 2020 David Rubke BAE ’73 - October 17, 2020 Janet (Himmer) Dorn BS ’56 - January 2, 2021 Paula (Lathrop) Rumbold BAE ’75 - October 26, 2020 Ralph Droege BS ’54 - November 24, 2020 Harold Rutz BS ’52 - November 17, 2020 Gertrude (Heinsohn) Ender BS ’54 - November 21, 2018 Carl Schalk HS ‘48, BS ’52 - January 24, 2021 Leonard Erdman BS ’54 - September 21, 2020 Linda (Grossman) Schau BA ’73 - September 3, 2020 Norm Failing BS ’61 - December 29, 2020 Norman Schmidt MAE ’69 - July 1, 2020 Edwin Feddersen BS ’32 - July 1, 1999 Eleanor (Hartwig) Scholz BA ’48 - November 14, 2018 James Garrison BS ’54 - October 3, 2020 Arlette (Isenberg) Schoof BS ’50 - May 24, 2020 Kenneth Gerbers BA ’66, MA ’67 - September 22, 2020 Isabel Shick MA ’77 - April 10, 2020 Robert Herrmann BA ’55, MA ’67 - September 18, 2020 Thea (Schwich) Streufert HS ’44 BS ’48 - September 19, 2020 Edward Hessler BS ’64, MA ’69 - September 30, 2020 Arthur Swett BA ’70 - November 9, 2020 Duane Hingst BS ’53 - February 13, 2021 Adele (Twillman) Trampe BS ’61 - September 14, 2020 Carol (Clausing) Hinrichs BS ’48 - January 28, 2021 Lois Weis BA ’83 - May 3, 2019 William Hoffmann BS ’54, MA ’59 - January 3, 2021 Lori Weiss BA ’79 - April 21, 2020 Donald Holste HS ’47, BS ’51 - November 13, 2020 Lucille (Bieberich) Winterstein BA ’63 - September 20, 2020 Blair Hoy BA ’67, MA ’73 - October 27, 2020 Anne Woehle BAE ’76 - August 16, 2020 Paul Jungkuntz BS ’49 - April 15, 2017 Howard Woldt BS ’54 - April 26, 2018 Roy Kaiser BS ’54 - November 24, 2020 Bruce Wurdeman BA ’71 - November 21, 2020 Marceil Kanning BS ’54 - October 16, 2020 Marietta (Glaess) Ziebart BS ’53 - January 16, 2021 Shirley Kern BS ’57 - January 13, 2021 Allan Keup BA ’66, MA ’72, MCM ’83 - January 21, 2021 Kenneth Klages BA ’67 - December 31, 2020 Katherine (Martin) Knabach BA ’60 Allen Knopp BS ’55 - December 6, 2020 Edward Krueger BS ’46 - October 21, 2020 Ray Krumsieg HS ’43 - March 5, 2019

31 Celebrating oncordia University Chicago’s faculty, staff Spring 2021 and administration once again celebrated a virtual commencement in May 2021 due Graduates Cto COVID-19 restrictions. These 14+ months have presented unexpected challenges, to say the least, yet our students have persevered to complete their degrees. We are exceptionally proud of each and every one of them. In this difficult time that tests our patience and resilience, we encourage each of our graduates to learn from their experiences and continue to grow as individuals and children of God. The following pages list the names of all Spring 2021 graduates in recognition of the many challenges they faced to complete their degrees in the face of adversity. Archived virtual ceremonies can be viewed on demand at CUChicago.edu/commencement.

To celebrate their just-earned Concordia University Chicago degrees, students from all over the globe posted photos of elation on CUC’s Instagram social media platform. Congratulations to all 2021 graduates!

32 The symbols SCL (Summa Cum Laude 3.9-4.0), MCL (Magna Cum Laude 3.7-3.89) and CL (Cum Laude 3.5-3.69) identify academic honors bestowed on candidates. A Concordia Scholar has completed the requirements for the Concordia Honors Program. Candidates for the Baccalaureate Degree

CANDIDATES FOR THE ASSOCIATE OF ARTS College of Business

Emily Schwarz Organizational Management

CANDIDATES FOR THE BACHELOR OF ARTS College of Arts and Sciences

Tumara Abuhashish Christina Buhler MCL Ulysses Espino Banni Guliana Natural Science: Biology Human Communication Music Psychology & Chemistry & Culture Theology: Professional Studies Ivonne Espinosa Diana Guzman Tamilore Adeeyo CL Concordia Scholar Spanish Natural Science: Media and Communication Biology & Chemistry Concordia Scholar Jesse Buss SCL Brittani Farmer Criminal Justice Psychology Allison Hembree Erika Aller Psychology Biology Natural Science: Biology Jessica Figueroa & Chemistry Vicky Carrasquillo Graphic Arts Adriana Herrera MCL Communication Social Work Lily Austin Elizabeth Fodor Art Adamari Casas Strategic Communication Angela Herrera Spanish Concordia Scholar Computer Science Roberto Avila Exercise Science & Francelia Celis Yasmine Fox Kimberly Herrera MCL Fitness Management Computer Science Strategic Communication Criminal Justice

Leslie Betancourt Timothy Contreras MCL Andrea Garcia Richard Herrera Social Work History Criminal Justice Computer Information Systems Sociology Bryce Bilodeau SCL Stefanie Cruz Bethany Hoehne SCL Sport, Fitness, & Recreation Music Alejandra Garibay Natural Science: Biology Exercise Science & Natural Science: & Chemistry Fitness Management Maurice Deloney Biology & Chemistry Concordia Scholar Criminal Justice Alexander Bogdan Cassandra Garza Mark Hogan History Yuda Dong Exercise Science & Exercise Science & Music Fitness Management Fitness Management Micah Brown MCL English Chloe Dugas MCL Giselle Gomez MCL Jane Holmes Concordia Scholar Music Social Work History Concordia Scholar Davis Bueltmann Mary Gotsch Patrick Hopkins Game Art Abram Egger SCL Music Criminal Justice Theological Languages Jorge Buenrostro History Aletheia Grossmann SCL Samantha Houser MCL Exercise Science & Concordia Scholar Theater Art Fitness Management Criminal Justice Strategic Communication

33 CANDIDATES FOR THE BACHELOR OF ARTS College of Arts and Sciences, continued

Adriana Huerta Kayla McCloud CL Jackeline Sandoval Isaac Strand CL Biology Media and Communication Criminal Justice Media and Communication

Salam Hussein MCL Gerardo Medina SCL* Victor Santos Eric Tapia Computer Science Criminal Justice Psychology Computer Science Political Science Katherine Janos Dejah Sartin Joshua Teggatz SCL Strategic Communication Mackenzie Melendez Biology English Criminal Justice Concordia Scholar Seneca Johnson MCL Henry Scheltens Sociology Fatima Melesio Media and Communication Ben Thin Social Work Computer Science Mark Jungo Cody Schrepferman Computer Science Gennesis Mizhquiri CL Theological Languages Daniel Thoelke CL Social Work Theological Languages Josiah Junkin Haley Senna Concordia Scholar Psychology Alissa Monaco Natural Science: Sociology Biology & Chemistry Salma Uribe MCL Cecilia Kochanek MCL Social Work Media and Communication William Murdoch Samantha Sharland CL Strategic Communication English Vanessa Vergara CL Anna Krenz MCL Political Science Natural Science: Pre-Nursing Strategic Communication Gillian Norris Art Madelyn Shoemaker SCL Olivia Vezner Adam Lackey CL Sociology Strategic Communication Political Science Henry Pahlkotter English Media and Communication Theater Evelyn Lebron CL Anna Sielaff MCL Jasmin Villalpando Psychology Gianna Pinotti History Social Work Pre Art Therapy Psychology Abbey Sloan Jazmin Villanueva CL Samantha Lemus Matthew Pizana Natural Science: Natural Science: Exercise Science & Criminal Justice Pre-Occupational Therapy Pre-Occupational Therapy Fitness Management Maura Ramirez Jessica Smith SCL Elissa Vrabel CL Jack Liskey Psychology Theater Strategic Communication Psychology Yesenia Ramirez Nadia Smith Brianna Welch SCL Paris Love Criminal Justice Strategic Communication Psychology Natural Science: Concordia Scholar Biology & Chemistry Rachel Rink SCL Julia Spitelli MCL Social Work Strategic Communication Milsy Westendorff MCL Aymen Maman CL History Criminal Justice Margaret Roman Cassidy Stephenson MCL Psychology Media and Communication Simone Wilson Samuel Marquart Biology Music Collin Salmon Emilie Stoller SCL Exercise Science & Theology Allison Witowicz Maribel Martinez Fitness Management Exercise Science & Social Work Fitness Management

*2020-2021 Student Laureate of The Lincoln Academy of Illinois

34 CANDIDATES FOR THE BACHELOR OF SCIENCE College of Arts and Sciences

Bilal Ahmed MCL Benjamin Evans Christopher Martinez Tyler Smith Pre-Medicine Kinesiology Pre-Clinical Exercise Physiology Kinesiology

Bayley Allen Sharice Firganek Marlene Martinez Sara Staup Kinesiology Kinesiology Biology Kinesiology

Mariela Arteaga Frances Gachalian Shara Martinho SCL Jacob Stec Emergency Medical Services Chemistry Kinesiology Computer Science

Vasil Bixheku Isabel Garcia Gilberto Medina John Sullivan Computer Science Exercise Science & Kinesiology Kinesiology Fitness Management Mark Bjorklund Michelle Chandra Tyler Terrell Kinesiology Kimberly Gonzalez Nankap Tchepnang Kinesiology Pre-Medicine Biology Vanessa Caldera Dana Trilla Kinesiology Laura Hausler Travis Nease Kinesiology Kinesiology Kinesiology Michalae Clark Justin Wootten Kinesiology Jeremy Heynen Antea Pela MCL Kinesiology Kinesiology Math: Actuarial Science Stefanie Cruz Concordia Scholar Kayla Yearout MCL Biology Christina Kamka Kinesiology Chemistry Kinesiology Miriam Rosales Chemistry Haoyong Yu Marcos Duran Natalia Lewis Computer Science Computer Science Kinesiology Lilibeth Rosiles Biology Amber Zayed SCL Sylvia Madej Nursing Biology

CANDIDATES FOR THE BACHELOR OF ARTS IN BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION College of Business

Raushaun Amos Sports Management Samantha Goodlett Diamond Lopez CL Christopher Santiago Management Sports Management Management Joel Bailey Sports Management Destiny Henschel SCL Destiny Morales Justin Schwarz Business Communication Management Management Griffin Beaudette Marketing Jonathan Ildefonso Jennifer Orozco Justice Silvera Management Management Management Nicholas Dalton Accounting Victoria Izaguirre MCL Brian Perez Trinity Simmons MCL Business Communication Accounting Accounting Jason Doran Management Kenta Jones Timothy Ray John Thiese Sports Management Management Marketing Ryan Felbinger CL Marketing Cade Laudenschlager Michelle Ruan Esmeralda Torres Barragan Sports Management Management Management

35 CANDIDATES FOR THE BACHELOR OF ARTS College of Business

Jennifer Abarca Janna Herrera Jamie McCreedy Alyssa Salcedo-Salas Healthcare Management Healthcare Management Healthcare Management Organizational Management

Ana Bry Yurisma Herrera Stephanie Mojden Hannah Smith Organizational Management Healthcare Management Healthcare Management Healthcare Management

Gretchen Coronado Priscilla Irizarry Leslie Mora Susan Szybowicz Organizational Management Sports and Recreation Healthcare Management Organizational Management Management Emily Detzel Abby Neitz Jonathan Torres MCL Healthcare Management Alyssa Klinsky Healthcare Management Organizational Management Healthcare Management Bryan Fomby Jose Olvera CL Bruce Washington Sports and Recreation Erich Lams Organizational Management Organizational Management Management Organizational Management Adeline Paffel SCL Kelly Westerkamp Ljiljana Gianos Ryan Lawlor Healthcare Management Healthcare Management Healthcare Management Healthcare Management Gabriel Parcel Sherry Westmoreland Karl Gieseke SCL Peter Leguizamon Healthcare Management Healthcare Management Healthcare Management Organizational Management Antron Pippen Deoplus Williams Ryan Graczyk Mynor Lemus Sports and Recreation Sports and Recreation Sports and Recreation Organizational Management Management Management Management

CANDIDATES FOR THE BACHELOR OF SCIENCE College of Business

Marshon Balthazar Carl Brown Anthony Rodriguez Paula Velez Public Safety Administration Public Safety Administration Human Resource Management Human Resource Management

Jorge Escobar-Mendez Tiffany Sutton Public Safety Administration Human Resource Management

CANDIDATES FOR THE BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION College of Business

Bryan Alton SCL Allison Kemp Anne McAndrew SCL Noemy Sotelo Accounting Accounting Management Management Concordia Scholar Concordia Scholar Gianni Gaskins MCL Anna Krenz MCL Sports Management Marketing Janette Moreno CL Haylie Williamson MCL Management Church/Not-for-Profit Vito Iovino Jacob Lams CL Marketing Management Sports Management Accounting Antea Pela MCL Alexa Lomantini SCL Marketing Marketing Concordia Scholar

36 CANDIDATES FOR THE BACHELOR OF ARTS College of Education

Abigail Currao Cassidy Holeso CL Katherine Lutz Margaret Warner CL Director of Christian Education Director of Christian Education Director of Christian Education Director of Christian Education

CANDIDATES FOR THE BACHELOR OF MUSIC EDUCATION College of Education

Lindsay Smith MCL Richard Tritten Music Education (K-12) Music Education (K-12)

CANDIDATES FOR THE BACHELOR OF SCIENCE College of Education

Esther Annoreno Ellen Gonzalez Jennifer Livesay SCL Diana Rodriguez SCL Elementary Education Educational Studies Social Science:History Education English/Language Concordia Scholar Arts Education Marcail Clark SCL Frank Gonzalez Elementary Education Special Education Kara Lumino Cameron Szymczak SCL Middle Grades Early Childhood Special Education Literacy Education Grace Hartwig CL Education Studies Math Education Alyssa Taglia SCL Briana Crescente SCL Middle Grades Math Education Viviana Mendoza SCL English/Language Elementary Education Concordia Scholar English/Language Arts Education Arts Education Elizabeth Cyrwus CL Bethany Hoehne SCL Kymauni Walker CL English/Language Math Education Jessica Metcalf MCL Social Science:History Education Arts Education Concordia Scholar Elementary Education Concordia Scholar Brianna Welch SCL Alexis Jones Isamar Navar Elementary Education Javier Espinosa CL Early Childhood Education Early Childhood Education Concordia Scholar Physical Education Qianyi Ke MCL Maria Ortega Allison Witowicz Sophia Giurini MCL Educational Studies Elementary Education Physical Education Elementary Education Lauren Knox MCL Sydney Plopper MCL Maria Gonzales MCL Elementary Education Elementary Education Special Education Mikaylah Koehler CL Stephanie Ramirez Early Childhood Education Early Childhood Education

CHURCH WORK CANDIDATES College of Education

Deaconess Director of Christian Lutheran Teacher Pre-Seminary Emilie Stoller Education (DCE) Education (LTE) Micah Brown Abigail Currao Marcail Clark Timothy Contreras Cassidy Holeso Grace Hartwig Abram Egger Katherine Lutz Bethany Hoehne Josiah Junkin Margaret Warner Sydney Plopper Cody Schrepferman Lindsay Smith Joshua Teggatz Daniel Thoelke

37 Candidates for the Master’s Degree

CANDIDATES FOR THE MASTER OF ARTS College of Arts and Sciences

Aaron Buchholz Dereem Hoff Rachel Meyer Justin Timm Religion Religion Religion Religion

CANDIDATES FOR THE MASTER OF SCIENCE College of Arts and Sciences

Daphne Ancona Jeremy Blanton Kasi Cruz Chinasa Ekweariri Applied Exercise Science Applied Exercise Science Applied Exercise Science Applied Exercise Science

Eloise Andrle Carolyn Boudreau Blair Darlington Christian Galindo Applied Exercise Science Applied Exercise Science Applied Exercise Science Applied Exercise Science

Musa Ayyad Jillian Brown Emily Davis Samuel Gardinier Applied Exercise Science Applied Exercise Science Applied Exercise Science Applied Exercise Science

Hunter Barnard Terrance Bullitt Jane Davis Marshall Gerlach Applied Exercise Science Applied Exercise Science Applied Exercise Science Applied Exercise Science

Sarah Barnes Sheridan Bunyan-Naulty Guillermo De La Torre Frank Ginder Applied Exercise Science Applied Exercise Science Applied Exercise Science Applied Exercise Science

Angelica Barriga Andres Carbajal Ravikant Dewangan Nicole Golden Applied Exercise Science Applied Exercise Science Applied Exercise Science Applied Exercise Science

Julie Bearden Riane Casper Collin Duchene April Grant Applied Exercise Science Applied Exercise Science Applied Exercise Science Applied Exercise Science

Lindsey Beers Kyle Colucci Lucas Dutil Morgan Grimm Applied Exercise Science Applied Exercise Science Applied Exercise Science Applied Exercise Science

Michael Berezowski Courtney Cox Deon Edwards Bara Mousa Khalil Hamadeh Applied Exercise Science Applied Exercise Science Applied Exercise Science Computer Science

38 CANDIDATES FOR THE MASTER OF SCIENCE College of Arts and Sciences, continued

T’keyah Hargrave Monyka Lee Sarah Quigley Tuyet Truong Applied Exercise Science Applied Exercise Science Applied Exercise Science Applied Exercise Science

Leah Harold Daryus Lemons Shannon Respeto-Irizarry Alicia Valdez Applied Exercise Science Applied Exercise Science Applied Exercise Science Applied Exercise Science

Nicole Haynes Rachel Leszczynski Daniel Rich Shayla Van Gurp Applied Exercise Science Applied Exercise Science Applied Exercise Science Applied Exercise Science

Sebastian Hernandez Joseph Lopez Ariel Rickelman Anthony Wade Applied Exercise Science Applied Exercise Science Applied Exercise Science Applied Exercise Science

Brionne Heron Susan Lopez Ricardo Rodriguez Tyler Wakefield Applied Exercise Science Applied Exercise Science Applied Exercise Science Applied Exercise Science

Miriam Hill Sarah Mark Alisa San Pedro Jacob Walker Applied Exercise Science Applied Exercise Science Instructional Design Applied Exercise Science & Technology Lisa Imbordino Trevor McLaughlin Katelynn Walsh Applied Exercise Science Applied Exercise Science Edward Saunders Applied Exercise Science Applied Exercise Science Tatyana Jackson Luis Medina Qi Wang Applied Exercise Science Applied Exercise Science Chris Sinos Computer Science Applied Exercise Science Marshall Jelden Zayra Mendivil-Acosta Nicole Weaver Applied Exercise Science Applied Exercise Science Deerick Smith Applied Exercise Science Applied Exercise Science Robert Killion Amanda Mills Brittany Weeks Applied Exercise Science Applied Exercise Science Cole Steffen Applied Exercise Science Applied Exercise Science Amanda Koch Steven Murkerson Jeremiah Welch Applied Exercise Science Applied Exercise Science Jennifer Swanson Applied Exercise Science Applied Exercise Science Hannah Koch William Neubauer Kirsten Woolsey Applied Exercise Science Applied Exercise Science Yu Lun Tai Applied Exercise Science Applied Exercise Science Kelly Kowalchick Abigail Olcott Cody Wright Applied Exercise Science Applied Exercise Science Sarah Tandet Applied Exercise Science Applied Exercise Science Tyler Kwasnicka Seth Pugh Haley Wyatt Applied Exercise Science Applied Exercise Science Alisha Tootle Applied Exercise Science Applied Exercise Science Eric Langolf Derek Young Applied Exercise Science Applied Exercise Science

CANDIDATES FOR THE MASTER OF ARTS College of Business

Sarah O’Malley-Fisher Sports Leadership

39 CANDIDATES FOR THE MASTER OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION College of Business

Jennifer Akin Prarunya Fuangkanngan Robert Miller Ryan Tripp Chief School Business Officer Business Management Healthcare Management Church/Not-for-Profit Management and Dezexin An Candise Green Sidhartha Nandan Digital Marketing Business Management Healthcare Management Business Management Cem Mutlu Ulku Thalia Anthony Noel Grigsby Manisha Reddy Patnam Business Management Healthcare Management Sports Management Business Management and Leadership & Change Nick Villasenor Management Wei Te Ho Morgan Potter Project Management Business Management Sports Management Asadullah Saundaryalahari Vimalkrishnan Business Management Rashad Hunt James Robinson Business Management Leadership & Change Healthcare Management Murod Askaraliev Management Jill Walters Business Management James Robinson Leadership & Change Damir Igamberdiev Sports Management Management Brittany Augello Business Management Healthcare Management Charlique Chrisollyn Rolle Haomiao Wang Karen Jackson Business Management Business Management Michel Balbontin Business Management Healthcare Management Gregory Russell Xiaobai Wang Andrews Jose Project Management Business Management Makayla Bannister Business Management Business Management Pratishta Sehgal Zihao Wei Charita Krishna Kanakamedala Business Management Business Management Milagros Banos Business Management Business Management Susan Skrobowski Justin Whitten Jun Ho Kang Healthcare Management Chief School Business Officer Ilayalith Bucio Business Management Business Management Thammanoon Thanongsin Alanna Witherspoon Sezen Kaya Business Management Business Management Cindy Cornelius Business Management Accounting Karthikeyan Thiyagarajan Yuhao Wu Muhammad Shoaib Ullah Khan Business Management Business Management Alisha Elias Dsouza Business Management Digital Marketing Stephanie Thomas Sitorabonu Zokhidova Yi Chen Lin Leadership & Change Finance Matthew Ernst Business Management Management Chief School Business Officer Michael Zozulia Sijia Liu Trinh Thi Xuan Tran Business Management Jesus Estrada Business Management Finance Business Management

CANDIDATES FOR THE MASTER OF ARTS College of Education

Natalie Hudson Education Studies

40 CANDIDATES FOR THE MASTER OF ARTS IN TEACHING College of Education

Alicia Acevedo Mirela Cicaj Alexandria Otter Samuel Schnack Elementary Education Elementary Education Elementary Education Secondary Education

Kristi Orton Marcus Rodgers Elementary Education Secondary Education

CANDIDATES FOR THE MASTER OF EDUCATION College of Education

Courtney Hursey Teaching and Learning

CANDIDATES FOR THE MASTER OF ARTS College of Graduate Studies

Rachel Aazzerah Christina Anderson Courtney Bainbridge Anthony Beltrano School Leadership Principal Preparation Principal Preparation Principal Preparation

Amy Acquino Michelle Anderson Nicholas Balcerak Megan Bennett School Leadership Educational Technology: Principal Preparation Principal Preparation Curriculum and Instruction Aide Acuna Lauren Balogh Anisha Blackmon Curriculum and Instruction with Anita Annafi Reading Education Teacher Leadership Bilingual Education Endorsement Gerontology Jessica Balzano Sean Blackwood Jeannette Aguilar Taylor Anthony School Counseling Teacher Leadership Curriculum and Instruction with School Counseling ESL Endorsement Nate Bargar Lisa Blazer Dan Anzilotti School Counseling Principal Preparation Antonio Aguirre Principal Preparation Principal Preparation Alexa Barwacz Kristen Blough Julie Arias Principal Preparation School Counseling Allulu Aldawod Special Education Special Education Marta Basile Sara Boehnke John Arntson Curriculum and Instruction with Educational Technology: Daniel Aloisio School Leadership ESL Endorsement Curriculum and Instruction Curriculum and Instruction with ESL Endorsement Katelin Arseneau Kathryn Bassett Marko Bojovic Early Childhood Education Principal Preparation Principal Preparation Ryan Altenburg Educational Technology: Kenneth Arvidson Nicholas Battaglia Kathryn Bolster Leadership Principal Preparation Principal Preparation Principal Preparation

Alison Alvarado Gerardo Avitia Alexandria Battle Lauren Bong Early Childhood Special School Counseling Special Education Educational Technology: Education Curriculum and Instruction Jessica Awe Tamara Bayson Jose Alvarado Curriculum and Instruction Curriculum and Instruction Gabrielle Booker Principal Preparation Teaching English to Speakers of Robert Bachar Justin Beck Other Languages Courtney Anderson Special Education Leadership School Leadership: Initial Leader Teacher Leadership Tyree Booker Laura Back Rachel Beeson Principal Preparation School Leadership: Initial Leader School Leadership: Initial Leader 41 CANDIDATES FOR THE MASTER OF ARTS College of Graduate Studies, continued

Danielle Botto Ana Castellanos Adreanna Dayton Rebecca Evans Special Education Leadership Principal Preparation Principal Preparation Principal Preparation

Jordan Bouterse Zuleika Cerino Rose Decanniere Michelle Evans School Leadership: Initial Leader School Counseling Principal Preparation School Leadership

Samantha Bowman Jessica Chmura Sara DeMartino Consdorf Jessica Evrard Principal Preparation Principal Preparation Principal Preparation Special Education

Cassandra Brackenridge Kajal Chokshi Joseph Dembowski Natalie Felix Principal Preparation Principal Preparation Principal Preparation Principal Preparation

David Bremer Karen Chrisman Jordan Deshong Emma Ferst Principal Preparation Educational Technology: Teaching English to Speakers of Reading Education Curriculum and Instruction Other Languages John Brown Elizabeth Finelli Principal Preparation Linda Cole Jaclyn Dipasquale School Counseling Differentiated Instruction School Counseling Meredith Buck Angela Flickema School Leadership: Initial Leader Ashley Concidine Matthew Doherty Gerontology Curriculum and Instruction with Principal Preparation Nicole Buettner ESL Endorsement Brock Foerch Educational Technology: Jill Dorman Educational Technology: Curriculum and Instruction Amanda Cook School Leadership: Initial Leader Leadership Principal Preparation Zachary Burns Richard Drake Erica Fox-Childress School Leadership: Initial Leader Lori Coombs Curriculum and Instruction with Principal Preparation Principal Preparation ESL Endorsement Brian Byrer Lee French School Leadership: Initial Leader Jordyn Cotter Jordan Drake Teacher Leadership Principal Preparation School Leadership: Initial Leader Jennifer Cabuno Hayley Fretheim Teacher Leadership Javin Cotton Jamie Driscoll Early Childhood Special Principal Preparation Principal Preparation Education Dayna Cahill School Leadership Cinque Cullar Deborah Dubin Heather Frieri Educational Administration Principal Preparation Principal Preparation Julie Calcagno Differentiated Instructruction: Carolyn Curtin Kathryn Eckart Sharon Fuller Gifted Education Principal Preparation School Leadership: Initial Leader Principal Preparation

Angela Caldwell Kyle Cutler Amy Ehm Monica Galang School Leadership School Leadership: Initial Leader Principal Preparation School Leadership: Initial Leader

Daniel Cameron Lauren Czochara Mckayla Ellsworth Jessica Galla Special Education Principal Preparation Principal Preparation Principal Preparation

Christopher Campbell Christina Dalton Madeline Elman Morgan Gamble School Leadership: Initial Leader Principal Preparation Principal Preparation Curriculum and Instruction

Stacey Campos David Dau Heidi Elmore Laura Garand Principal Preparation Differentiated Instruction School Leadership: Initial Leader Teacher Leadership

Catherine Cantwell Angela Dauphin Corey Elton Shannon Garcia Principal Preparation Principal Preparation Principal Preparation Principal Preparation

Shaunna Carter Erin Davis Angelanina Escanilla Brian Garland School Leadership: Initial Leader Reading Education Curriculum and Instruction Principal Preparation 42 CANDIDATES FOR THE MASTER OF ARTS College of Graduate Studies, continued

Cara Georges James Hanley Jenna Hodge Hye Chin Jung Teacher Leadership Principal Preparation School Leadership: Initial Leader Curriculum and Instruction

Jennifer Gervase Adam Hansen Craig Hoffman Daniel Jurgensen Principal Preparation Educational Technology: Principal Preparation Educational Technology: Curriculum and Instruction Leadership Veronica Gibson Hannah Hollatz School Counseling Jamie Harkins Teacher Leadership Kelly Kanarowski School Counseling Principal Preparation Andrew Goldie Troy Huber School Leadership Terilise Harris Educational Technology: Colleen Karrigan Principal Preparation Leadership Principal Preparation Aileen Goldman Principal Preparation Brittany Harris Amanda Huey Brett Kay Human Services Reading Education Principal Preparation Julie Goostree Special Education Judson Hartman Christopher Hughes Anna Kellar School Leadership: Initial Leader School Counseling Psychology Kelsey Gordon School Leadership: Initial Leader Meghan Hawkinson Audrey Hutchings Jonathan Kelley Principal Preparation Curriculum and Instruction School Leadership: Initial Leader Erin Graham Educational Technology: Aubrey Hayes Katie Iman Zainub Khan Leadership Principal Preparation School Leadership: Initial Leader Principal Preparation

Brooke Gregorcy Lindsay Hays Megan Jakubowski Terence Khuu Differentiated Instruction Principal Preparation Reading Education Principal Preparation

Tanika Greisiger Samantha Heckler Risa James Annette Kiehne School Leadership: Initial Leader School Leadership: Initial Leader School Leadership Early Childhood Education

Jaclyn Griffin Julie Heimer James Jeffries Justin Kimbel Principal Preparation Principal Preparation School Leadership: Initial Leader Clinical Mental Health Counseling

Anthony Griffin Samantha Heinrich Alfonsita Jimenez Megan Klein School Counseling Principal Preparation Principal Preparation Principal Preparation

Jessica Groncki Huda Hejaz Marlen Jimenez Makenzie Kooi Principal Preparation School Counseling School Counseling Special Education Leadership

Jennifer Gryzlak Lindsey Henkels Christopher Johnson Kasie Kosinski Principal Preparation Reading Education Principal Preparation Principal Preparation

Kelley Guastella Kelsey Herrick Sarah Johnson Angelika Krawiec Special Education Leadership Reading Education Principal Preparation Principal Preparation

Katelyn Haack Caylen Hershey Kiara Jones Renee Kuharchuk Reading Education Reading Education Principal Preparation Differentiated Instruction

Laura Hagan Darrell Hersman Stephen Jones Sunhyeok Kwon Principal Preparation School Counseling Special Education Leadership Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages Todd Halstead Andrew Hess Susan Jones Principal Preparation Principal Preparation School Leadership: Initial Leader Jennifer Lagundoye Curriculum and Instruction with Keith Halverson Allison Hewell Nicole Jones ESL Endorsement Curriculum and Instruction Principal Preparation School Counseling

43 CANDIDATES FOR THE MASTER OF ARTS College of Graduate Studies, continued

Neil Lakia Kaylin Lumbard Molly McDonough Madeleine Moustakas School Leadership: Initial Leader School Leadership: Initial Leader Educational Technology: Curriculum and Instruction with Leadership ESL Endorsement James Lamb Jr. Matthew Malloy Principal Preparation Principal Preparation Shannon McGowan Catherine Moy Educational Technology: Principal Preparation Justine Lamoso Safiyah Malvin Curriculum and Instruction Principal Preparation Principal Preparation Kelsey Mulhern Anisa McHugh Principal Preparation Jessica Langosch Alyssa Malzone School Counseling Principal Preparation Curriculum and Instruction Julianna Murphy Jenna McLaughlin School Counseling Nicole Laprairie Lynn Marquardt School Counseling Principal Preparation Principal Preparation Aaron Myers Idalia Medina School Leadership: Initial Leader Sarah Larsen Carrie Mask Principal Preparation Principal Preparation Educational Technology: Erin Narcisi Curriculum and Instruction Dian Medrano Principal Preparation Emily Larsen Clinical Mental Health Counseling School Counseling Anthony Mason Mallory Nasatir Principal Preparation Joseph Militello Principal Preparation Sean Larsen Curriculum and Instruction with School Leadership April Massey ESL Endorsement Ashley Nelson School Leadership: Initial Leader Principal Preparation Katherine Lauesen Tamara Miller School Counseling Aaron Matheson School Counseling Grace Neuses Principal Preparation Teacher Leadership Milica Leone Amy Miskowicz Differentiated Instruction Amanda Mathews Principal Preparation Jessica Olinski Special Education Teacher Leadership Lindsey Lex Lisa Mistovich Curriculum and Instruction Allie Mauck School Leadership: Initial Leader Capucine Oliver School Leadership School Counseling Danielle Licitra Ellina Mitchell Reading Education Hannah Maurer Principal Preparation Kelly Olson Principal Preparation Educational Technology: Candace Litherland Andre Moffett Curriculum and Instruction Curriculum and Instruction Bailey May Principal Preparation School Leadership: Initial Leader Patrick O’Neill Susan Loken Maria Morales Principal Preparation Special Education James McCarthy Teaching English to Speakers of Educational Technology: Other Languages Matthew O’Reilly Anthony Lonigro Leadership School Leadership School Counseling Erika Moratilla John McClintock Principal Preparation Joyce Orellana Nikole Lopez Principal Preparation Principal Preparation Principal Preparation Margarita Moreno Kelly McCollom Principal Preparation Brandon Orr Jessica Loszach School Counseling Educational Technology: Curriculum and Instruction Robert Morgan Curriculum and Instruction Waybon McConnell Principal Preparation Monica Loveshe Educational Administration Stacy Osideko Principal Preparation Kassandra Mosher Principal Preparation Lauren McDonald School Leadership: Initial Leader Mary Luka Principal Preparation Adrianne Osmus Special Education Leadership Rebecca Moss School Leadership Principal Preparation

44 CANDIDATES FOR THE MASTER OF ARTS College of Graduate Studies, continued

Rebecka Oyster Damiya Perkins Moira Quealy Priscilla Rodriguez Reading Education Educational Administration Educational Technology: School Counseling Leadership Lauren Ozimek Rebecca Perry Kate Rogers Principal Preparation Principal Preparation Anne Ragauskis Principal Preparation Principal Preparation Mirella Padilla Samuel Peters Stephen Rogers Educational Technology: Educational Technology: Stephanie Rahn Principal Preparation Curriculum and Instruction Leadership Special Education Clarissa Rosenberg Alexandra Paist Faith Petkus Alyssa Raiche-Salek Principal Preparation Teacher Leadership Curriculum and Instruction with Clinical Mental Health Counseling ESL Endorsement Amber Rossero Courtney Palicka Kyle Rall School Leadership: Initial Leader Principal Preparation Marcellus Phelps School Leadership: Initial Leader Educational Administration Amber Rossler Barbara Palomo Caroline Reardon English as a Second Language Principal Preparation Bartholomew Piet Curriculum and Instruction Principal Preparation Corey Rotelli Meghan Paloucek Raven Redmond Curriculum and Instruction with Principal Preparation Carly Pietro Special Education ESL Endorsement Differentiated Instruction Lauren Panek Kelly Reinmann Diana Ruiz Educational Technology: Annie Plackett Principal Preparation Principal Preparation Leadership Teacher Leadership Leigh Reisberg James Russell Courtney Pantone Patryk Pliszka Clinical Mental Health Counseling Curriculum and Instruction School Leadership: Initial Leader Principal Preparation Kristen Rekow Markeise Russell Mary Pasquale Jordan Poll School Leadership Principal Preparation Principal Preparation Principal Preparation Debra Reyes Teresa Ruvalcaba Ashley Patla Martha Polley Principal Preparation Psychology Principal Preparation Principal Preparation Chase Richards Jamie Sakelaris Kathryn Paulson Kiara Poole School Leadership: Initial Leader Teacher Leadership Principal Preparation School Counseling Jessica Rinehart Grace Sanchez Maci Payne Molly Porters Principal Preparation Educational Technology: Differentiated Instruction School Counseling Curriculum and Instruction Christopher Rios Sarah Payne Amy Powell Principal Preparation Neelesh Sane Principal Preparation Special Education Leadership Principal Preparation Sonia Rios Kathryn Peacock Carly Powell School Counseling Christine Santosdiaz Differentiated Instruction Curriculum and Instruction Principal Preparation Matthew Rivera Alexis Pellegrino Ben Powers Principal Preparation Carlos Santoyo Special Education Leadership Principal Preparation Principal Preparation Samantha Robbins Megan Peoplis Brandi Price Principal Preparation Heidi Sass Principal Preparation Educational Administration Differentiated Instruction Patricia Rodriguez Regina Perez Erica Proffit Principal Preparation Holly Schatz School Counseling School Counseling Curriculum and Instruction with Raquel Rodriguez ESL Endorsement Ashley Perisee Kathleen Pyrce Principal Preparation Principal Preparation Principal Preparation 45 CANDIDATES FOR THE MASTER OF ARTS College of Graduate Studies, continued

Rebecca Schmidly Gabrielle Silva Michael Staiger Kristine Turner Principal Preparation Differentiated Instruction School Leadership: Initial Leader Principal Preparation

Megan Schmidt Brittaney Simmons Amanda Stark Abby Udelhofen Teacher Leadership Educational Administration Reading Education Reading Education

Amy Schultz Melissa Sindermann Taylor Stevens Oscar Urbina Principal Preparation Curriculum and Instruction with School Leadership: Initial Leader School Counseling ESL Endorsement Lauren Schwabe Linda Stone Theresa Urchell Reading Education Caitlin Skrbec Principal Preparation Teacher Leadership Special Education Kurnain Scott Jayne Storr Bonnetta Vaughn Principal Preparation Stephanie Slager School Counseling Special Education Special Education Victoria Scott Andrea Stubblefield Robin Vaughn Principal Preparation Nicholas Slezak Principal Preparation Principal Preparation School Counseling Matthew Seaquist Melissa Stucky Rachel Vena Special Education Ashley Slifer Principal Preparation Educational Technology: Differentiated Instruction Curriculum and Instruction Melanie Sell Randi Sucic Principal Preparation Julie Sluis Curriculum and Instruction with Jacqueline Vrchota School Counseling ESL Endorsement Principal Preparation John Sents Reading Education Mary Smaga Ashley Swanson Rebecca Waldbusser Differentiated Instruction School Counseling Principal Preparation Alyssa Serewicz School Counseling Bryan Smith Nicole Sward Logan Walther School Leadership: Initial Leader Special Education Principal Preparation Julie Shapiro Principal Preparation Heather Smith Renee Swidron Annina Wanzung School Counseling Differenitated Instruction Differentiated Instruction: Yan Shar Gifted Education Teacher Leadership Rebecca Smith Mark Talbot Reading Education Principal Preparation Michael Warren Jason Shaw Principal Preparation School Leadership: Initial Leader Shatondra Smith Launa Tangorra School Counseling Principal Preparation Michelle Wasilewski Rebecca Sheade Differentiated Instruction Principal Preparation Teresa Smith Brianna Taylor Early Childhood Education Curriculum and Instruction Patricia Watson Laura Sherman Principal Preparation Curriculum and Instruction with Kelsey Sohrweide Patrice Taylor-Thompson ESL Endorsement Principal Preparation School Counseling Shari Watts School Leadership: Initial Leader Margaret Sholl Janel Sorenson Marquita Thompson Principal Preparation School Leadership Principal Preparation Christina Weathersby Principal Preparation Jaclyn Shupe Nicolas Sorrentino Stacie Thorpe-Burnett Reading Education School Counseling Principal Preparation Chloe Wells Curriculum and Instruction with Zun Mi Mi Shwe Colin Spude Juan Tinoco ESL Endorsement Educational Technology: Principal Preparation Principal Preparation Curriculum and Instruction Brittany Wiggins Mary Staehlin Filberto Torres Principal Preparation Rebecca Siambekos Principal Preparation Principal Preparation Reading Education 46 CANDIDATES FOR THE MASTER OF ARTS College of Graduate Studies, continued

Emily Wiggins Aleasa Williamson Kyle Wright Alexandra Zeller Principal Preparation Principal Preparation Principal Preparation Principal Preparation

Krista Wilcox Porsche Winfield Megan Xaverius Sarah Ziegler Educational Technology: Principal Preparation Principal Preparation Principal Preparation Curriculum and Instruction Latasha Winston Tariqqa Young Corinne Zimmerman Alexis Wilk Clinical Mental Health Counseling Curriculum and Instruction Principal Preparation Reading Education Rebecca Wos Sahed Yousef Janice Zimmerman Karla Williams Reading Education Teacher Leadership Principal Preparation Reading Education David Wright Peter Zak School Leadership: Initial Leader Principal Preparation

CANDIDATES FOR THE EDUCATION SPECIALIST College of Graduate Studies

Tod Altenburg LaTonya Applewhite Stephen Bournes Amanda Smith Superintendency Superintendency Superintendency Superintendency

47 Candidates for the Doctoral Degree

DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY College of Arts and Sciences

Amy Allnutt Jeff Monaco Health and Human Performance Health and Human Performance Dissertation Title: Dissertation Title: A Cross-Sectional Study Examining Weight Bias Attitudes and Obesity Beliefs The Effects of a 12 -Week Body Transformation Challenge and Personal Training Among Undergraduate Students on Exercise Frequency and Adherence of New Gym Members – An Analysis Dissertation Committee: Dissertation Committee: Dayna Alexander, Chair; Daniel Smith, William Torrence Bridget Melton, Chair; Helen Bland, Malinda Teague

Jennifer Arnold Thomas Schwartz Health and Human Performance Health and Human Performance Dissertation Title: Dissertation Title: Virtual Reality and Mental Skills to Enhance Cadet Performance Indices of Aerobic Power and Stamina in Middle-Distance Running Dissertation Committee: Dissertation Committee: William Torrence, Chair; Daniel Smith, Garrett Beatty Michael Thomas, Chair; Jeffrey Messer, Kun Li

Blair Carsone Thomas Solecki Health and Human Performance Health and Human Performance Dissertation Title: Dissertation Title: Occupational Therapy Intervention and Beery VMI Scores of Children with Perceptions of College Athletes’ Healthy Eating and the Effects on Mood, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Brachial Plexus Injury, and Cerebral Palsy Perceived Stress, and Performance Recovery Dissertation Committee: Dissertation Committee: Katherine Green, Chair; William Torrence, Bridgett Henry William Torrence, Chair; Amanda Mulcahy, Ronald Wagner

Christopher Jacquard Julie Ulery Health and Human Performance Health and Human Performance Dissertation Title: Dissertation Title: HRV Coherence Biofeedback Training and Sleep Duration in a Law Nutrition Supplement Use Among Adult Recreational Runners: What Influences Enforcement Population Runners’ Consumption? Dissertation Committee: Dissertation Committee: William Torrence, Chair; John Schwartz, Arthur Safer Bridget Melton, Chair; Helen Bland, Amy Jo Riggs

48 CANDIDATES FOR THE DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY College of Arts and Sciences, continued

Brandi Walker Jeffrey Williams Health and Human Performance Health and Human Performance Dissertation Title: Dissertation Title: The Effects of Varying Rest Intervals on Jump Height and Peak Power Assessment of Dynamic, Unilateral Asymmetry Scores as an Indicator to Dissertation Committee: Diminished Bilateral Strength 1RM Scores in Olympic Weightlifters William Torrence, Chair; Helen Bland, John Wagle Dissertation Committee: William Torrence, Chair; Daniel Smith, Michael Thomas

DOCTOR OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION College of Business

Ahmed Montasser Sayed Abdalbaqi Imad Ramadan Business Administration Business Administration Dissertation Title: Dissertation Title: A Qualitative Study for Crisis Management Strategies Used by The Association Between Accounting Disclosures and Transparency Small Business Leaders and Investors’ Confidence Dissertation Committee: Dissertation Committee: Charlene Dunfee, Chair; Kristen Moore, Paul Brower Roberto Castaneda, Chair; Daniel Mays, Apostolos Xanthopoulos

Khaled Alharahsheh Business Administration Dissertation Title: Relationship between Ownership Concentration and Dividend Policy in Jordanian Capital Market Dissertation Committee: Roberto Castaneda, Chair; Daniel Mays, Dana Sendziol

DOCTOR OF EDUCATION College of Business

Alex Anderson Jason Wenschlag Leadership: Sports Management Administration Organizational Leadership Dissertation Title: Dissertation Title: Exploration of Student-Athletes’ College Choice at Small, Private NCAA 35 Days: An Autoethnography of Change Leadership Following a School Tragedy Division I Institutions Dissertation Committee: Dissertation Committee: Katherine Green, Chair; Maja Miskovic, Donna Blaess Elizabeth Brennan, Chair; Mary Ball Brant, Sandra Svoboda Michael Williams Michael Birmingham Sr. Organizational Leadership Organizational Leadership Dissertation Title: Dissertation Title: How Out of School Time Programs at Field-based Science Institutions Identifying Campus Locations’ Contributions To The Perception of Safety Impact STEM Pathway Choices: Urban Minority Youth and Underrepresented Dissertation Committee: STEM Fields Rayshawn Eastman, Chair; Anne Grey, Gail Stephens Dissertation Committee: Marlon Cummings, Chair; Hilton Kelly, Pamela Konkol Denair Thomas Organizational Leadership Dissertation Title: Teachers’ Perceptions of the Use of Computer-Assisted Instruction to Teach Academics to Students with Level 1 Autism in the Middle Grades Dissertation Committee: David Kluth, Chair; Elizabeth Owolabi, Bridgett Henry 49 DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY College of Business

Cynthia Davis Front Office Mothers in the Business of Professional Sport: Navigating Leadership: Sports Management Administration Motherhood and Career Dissertation Title: Dissertation Committee: A Generic Qualitative Study from Softball Coaches’ Perspectives: Spectators’ Kathryn Hollywood, Chair; Rekha Rajan, Donna Blaess Behaviors on the Diamond Dissertation Committee: Larissa Miller Suzanne Lawrence, Chair; Jeffrey Eyanson, Robert Mechikoff Organizational Leadership Dissertation Title: Elisabeth Dellegrazie Compassion Fatigue and Nursing Faculty: Are Students Involved? Organizational Leadership Dissertation Committee: Dissertation Title: William Spears, Chair; Daniel Smith, Arthur Safer Internationalization of Business Curriculum: Global Competence and Global Citizenship Phillip Norman Dissertation Committee: Leadership: Sports Management Administration Donna Blaess, Chair; Steve Song, Kathryn Hollywood Dissertation Title: The Impact of Intercollegiate Football Participation on Academic Achievement Troy Hoekstra Dissertation Committee: Organizational Leadership Donna Blaess, Chair; Michael Hardy, Scott Leman Dissertation Title: Stakeholders’ Perceptions of Inefficiencies in Commercial Construction and Debra Reed Development Projects in the Midwestern United States Organizational Leadership Dissertation Committee: Dissertation Title: Elizabeth Brennan, Chair; Mary Ball Brant, Donald Comi Exploration of Aspects of Strategic Leadership that are Unique to Nonprofit Organizations Stephanie Lovingood Dissertation Committee: Leadership: Sports Management Administration Kathryn Hollywood, Chair; Rekha Rajan, Elizabeth Brennan Dissertation Title:

DOCTOR OF EDUCATION College of Graduate Studies

Timothy Baker Cathy Coleman School Leadership Higher Education Leadership Dissertation Title: Dissertation Title: The Impact of an Emergent Discipline Culture on Teacher Perceptions of Administrator Perceptions of Teacher Attrition Prior to COVID-19: A Case Study School Climate Dissertation Committee: Dissertation Committee: Dannelle Stevens, Chair; Elizabeth Owolabi, Thomas Bailey Pamela Konkol, Chair; Peter Sullivan, Christopher Esposito Marc Evans Scott Bramley School Leadership School Leadership Dissertation Title: Dissertation Title: Teachers’ Perceptions of High-stakes Testing - Preparing Students for a Test or School Leaders’ Perceptions of School Climate Preparing Students for Life? Dissertation Committee: Dissertation Committee: Paul Sims, Chair; Angela Tagaris, Glenn Schlichting Mary Zaharis, Chair; Angela Tagaris, Arthur Safer

Tiffany Burnett Suzanne Garcia School Leadership Educational Leadership Dissertation Title: Dissertation Title: The Road Not Yet Taken: White Teachers’ Perspectives on Culturally Attending Anyway: A Qualitative Case Study of the Intersections of Family Responsive Teaching Stress, School Climate, and School Attendance Choices within a Northeast Dissertation Committee: Urban High School Christopher Esposito, Chair; Pamela Konkol, Ebonyse Mead Dissertation Committee: Katherine Green, Chair; Rekha Rajan, Kathryn Hollywood 50 DOCTOR OF EDUCATION College of Graduate Studies, continued

Valerie Hoose Samora Rugumamu Teacher Leadership Teacher Leadership Dissertation Title: Dissertation Title: How Elementary (K-5) Teachers’ Mindsets Affect Classroom Environments Effective Science Teaching Strategies for ESL/EFL Students: A Case Study Dissertation Committee: Dissertation Committee: Christopher Maddox, Chair; John Lupinacci, Victoria Hansen Libi Shen, Chair; John D’Aguanno, Genelle Morris

Geneine Morris William Stanton Educational Leadership School Leadership Dissertation Title: Dissertation Title: The Role of Black Sisters in Servant Leadership in the USA The Effects of Professional Learning Communities on Collective Teacher Dissertation Committee: Efficacy Paul Sims, Chair; Angela Tagaris, Arthur Safer Dissertation Committee: Paul Sims, Chair; Mary Ball Brant, Arthur Safer Braulio Navarro Educational Leadership Bridgette Stuart Dissertation Title: Higher Education Leadership How Principals of New York City Urban High Schools Address the Unique Needs Dissertation Title: of Students Who are Homeless Parents’ Experiences with Promoting the Academic Success of Middle School Dissertation Committee: Children in Low-Socioeconomic Schools Arthur Safer, Chair; Mary Ball Brant, Robert Wilhite Dissertation Committee: Andrea Silverstein, Chair; Judy Shoemaker, Dion Jones Danielle Penn-Lusby School Leadership Lori Tucker Dissertation Title: Curriculum & Instruction To Be Right or To Be in Relationship: Exploring the Experiences of Staff During Dissertation Title: the Implementation of Restorative Practices at a Suburban High School Teachers’ Perceptions of Using Data to Inform Instruction: A Mixed Dissertation Committee: Methods Approach Pamela Konkol, Chair; Evelyn Nedderman, Arthur Safer Dissertation Committee: Christopher Lilly, Chair; Mary Ball Brant, Joan McGarry Sean Rabiola Educational Leadership Tamara Wallace Dissertation Title: School Leadership Exploring Educators’ Multidimensional Attitudes and Self-Efficacy Toward Dissertation Title: Inclusive Education Remote Learning in the Time of Crisis: The Perceptions of Elementary Teachers Dissertation Committee: in Developing Social Presence, Cognitive Presence and Teaching Presence William Spears, Chair; Kathleen Hibbert, Arthur Safer Dissertation Committee: Rebecca Hornberger, Chair; Angela Tagaris, Paul Sims Crystal Ross Higher Education Leadership Dissertation Title: Teacher Turnover in a Texas Public School: A Case Study Dissertation Committee: Libi Shen, Chair; Joan McGarry, John D’Aguanno

51 DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY College of Graduate Studies

Juanita Adeoye David Freed School Leadership Educational Leadership Dissertation Title: Dissertation Title: The Unspoken Wound: A Qualitative Study of Educators’ Adverse International School Principals’ Insights and Experiences with Childhood Experiences Teacher Motivation Dissertation Committee: Dissertation Committee: Maja Miskovic, Chair; Mary Crabtree, Kathy Bonnar Paul Sims, Chair; Angela Tagaris, Rebecca Hornberger

Samantha Alaimo Junior Hernandez School Leadership Educational Leadership Dissertation Title: Dissertation Title: The Impact of the Implementation of Tier I Social Emotional Learning Teachers’ Perceptions of Integrating Digital Technology Tools Programming on Skill Mastery and School Environment in an Dissertation Committee: Illinois Middle School Andrea Silverstein, Chair; Tamara Korenman, Ardelle Pate Dissertation Committee: Paul Sims, Chair; Daniel Smith, Glenn Schlichting Byron Lyons School Leadership Noha Almazroo Dissertation Title: Curriculum & Instruction Principals’ Perceptions of Leading with Emotional Intelligence in Urban Dissertation Title: School Settings Computer Science Teachers’ Perspectives Regarding their Knowledge, Dissertation Committee: Beliefs, and Practice of Brain-Based Learning Strategies in Saudi Arabia Paul Sims, Chair; Angela Tagaris, Rebecca Hornberger Dissertation Committee: Jenna Nelson, Chair; John Schwartz, Mohamed Elnatour Dori MacMillan School Leadership: Initial Leader Afrah Alobra Dissertation Title: Curriculum & Instruction Educators’ Experiences and Use of Alternative Approaches in Place of Dissertation Title: Exclusionary Discipline Perspectives of High School Teachers for Adding Art Education as a Dissertation Committee: Mandatory Class in Saudi Arabia Secondary Schools Lucy Ozvat, Chair; Alison Clark, Arthur Safer Dissertation Committee: William Spears, Chair; Angela Tagaris, Arthur Safer Sara Meeks Special Education Leadership Ahmed Alomair Dissertation Title: Educational Technology: Leadership Teacher Perspectives Regarding the Use of Restorative Justice Practices for Dissertation Title: Students with Disabilities in an Urban High School Setting Saudi Arabian University Students’ Perceptions of Engagement and Dissertation Committee: Self-directed Learning when using Smartphones William Spears, Chair; Angela Tagaris, Arthur Safer Dissertation Committee: Andrea Dinaro, Chair; Hayal Kackar-Cam, Kathryn Wozniak Elizabeth Miesch Reading, Language & Literacy Ohud Mohammed O Alshamsan Dissertation Title: Special Education Leadership Navigating Dyslexia from Kindergarten to College: A Study of Parents’ Dissertation Title: Individual Narratives Saudi teachers’ perceptions of their knowledge and responsibility about the Dissertation Committee: special education principles in Saudi Vision 2030 Elena Lyutykh, Chair; Jie Lin, Kari Pawl Dissertation Committee: Andrea Dinaro, Chair; Hayal Kackar-Cam, John Schwartz Bradford Mitchell Educational Technology: Leadership Elizabeth Burke Dissertation Title: Teacher Leadership Mindset and Online Learning Performance of Secondary Students Dissertation Title: Dissertation Committee: Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge and Classroom Ardelle Pate, Chair; Steve Song, James Panosh Technology Use: A Mixed Methods Study Dissertation Committee: Lucy Ozvat, Chair; Joseph Dusek, Adam Hiebel

52 DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY College of Graduate Studies, continued

Winifred Nnakwe Fritzy Sannon-Brown Educational Leadership Educational Leadership Dissertation Title: Dissertation Title: How did School Business Officials (SBOs), as district fiscal leaders maintain Principal Turnover and Retention: A Study of Urban K-12 School Principals fiscal solvency following The Great Recession of 2008 in New York State (NYS) and Accountability Public Schools? Dissertation Committee: Dissertation Committee: Alison Clark, Chair; Tamara Korenman, Mary Zaharis Craig Schilling, Chair; Daniel Smith, David Bein Julie Taylor Rookmattie Samaroo Curriculum & Instruction Reading, Language & Literacy Dissertation Title: Dissertation Title: Exploring Teacher Perspectives on the Impact of the Next Step Guided Reading A Case Study of Teachers’ Experiences in Vertical Professional Learning Approach to Literacy Instruction: A Case Study Communities (VPLCs): Focused on Building Teachers’ Capacity in Nonfiction Dissertation Committee: Reading Across Grades K-2 William Spears, Chair; Daniel Smith, Arthur Safer Dissertation Committee: Kari Pawl, Chair; Angela Tagaris, Sandra Doering

53 CUChicago.edu