Spring Bridged 2023

BRIDGED

A Letter from the President

By Andrew C. Denton, PhD

This has been an incredible year at Crown College. We have many things to be grateful to the Lord for here at Crown, including the outstanding work of our faculty and staff and the achievements of our on-campus and online students.

As we deepen our commitment to being an academically excellent institution, we will continue to invest in our faculty, academic programs, and academic partnerships. Our deans are building their areas with new curricula, more focused programs, and developing new meaningful partnerships for Crown. We are also seeking additional accreditations, like ATS (Association of Theological Schools) for our Graduate School of Ministry programs, to bring some of our programs to a new academic level. We will keep you posted on these accreditations as there is new information.

DR. ANDREW C. DENTON PRESIDENT

Over the past six months, our President's Cabinet and I have led the entire campus community through a strategic planning process. I am excited about the direction it is taking us and am confident we will launch a plan that will be strategic and move Crown into a new level of excellence and growth. During this process, we have been envisioning what our campus will look like in the future, reimaging the structure of our online and graduate programs, outlining how to enhance our student experience in new and innovative ways, and developing how to build our brand as a boldly Christian college.

With our strategic plan launching this summer, we have tremendous things to look forward to in the coming months and years. In addition to our residence hall opening in the fall, we announced that we will completely renovate our first-floor west-wing classrooms this

summer. These newly modernized classrooms will be completely updated with new windows, carpet, up-to-date IT, temperature control systems, and versatile furniture to provide optimal learning environments. Our students and faculty will be able to enjoy these new classrooms this coming fall.

If you have not had an opportunity to visit Crown lately, I encourage you to come to Homecoming this fall and take a tour of campus. While the Lord has blessed us with the ability to update our campus facilities, we remain the same authentic community that began in 1916.

"While the Lord has blessed us with the ability to update our campus facilities, we remain the same authentic community that began in 1916."

PRESIDENT

MITCH FISK '96 DIRECTOR OF ALUMNI RELATIONS

A Letter from the Director of Alumni Relations

By Mitch Fisk, MAOL

The last 12 months have been a blur! As I think about what has happened on-campus, my mind recalls:

› All the renovations that took place

› The ground-breaking + ongoing construction for the new residence hall

› Enrollment growth and trends are pointing towards continued growth

› The list goes on and on… athletic experiences, classroom experiences, chapel experiences…

I think of the numerous opportunities I have had to connect individually with alums both on and off campus, also, connecting with many churches and pastors, and just reading about the history of The College!

It’s an exciting time and I enjoy the opportunity to meet and share updates on what is happening at Crown, but, I also enjoy hearing your stories, some I will share and some maybe I shouldn’t!

› Sitting in the Nook

› Sitting in the foodservice walk-in

freezer waiting for a 5 gallon bucket of Kool-Aid to freeze as a fundraiser

› Candle-lightings

› Choral Club Activities

› Road-trips for athletic events

› Placing roadkill in a garbage bag and putting it under a friend’s bed (probably shouldn’t have shared that one!) and I use the word “friend” very loosely!

All of these memories remind me of a couple brief lines from our Alumni Association, Mission + Purpose…taken from our bylaws: “…encourage the engagement of alumni…foster a lifelong relationship with Crown College by creating opportunities for alumni to connect…”

There is an implicit directive in there as well and that is engaging with our current students. I am excited because many people have asked me how they can support, mentor, connect with current students and it’s exciting to see alums wanting to “give back”!

The growth that’s taking place in all levels of the campus reminds me of a phrase Dr. Gary Benedict ’72, former President of The College and The Christian & Missionary Alliance, has used many times, “You are either green and growing or dead on the vine”. It feels appropriate as we approach spring to say "...all glory to God" that things are "green and growing" in all aspects at The College!

I’d love to connect over coffee, please reach out!

I'd love to connect over coffee, please reach out! DIRECTOR OF ALUMNI RELATIONS

A God-given Path to Grad School

By Monique Kleinhuizen

It’s not every day you get audible instructions from God, but Theresa “Terri” Rubio remembers that happening like it was yesterday.

Once a corporate IT professional, she’d made a career shift when she realized she was making a good income, but absolutely miserable. Years before she even knew who Jesus was, she felt a deep longing, thinking to herself, "There has to be more to life".

up dry cleaning to paying bills to coordinating home repair, she left the door open to “helping people,” whatever that might look like for a growing list of clients outside Philadelphia.

She loved the flexibility the business gave her but recalls still feeling listless, lining up job after job while taking college courses in her spare time. She collected credits from several different schools, hoping to cash them in someday on a nebulous business degree. It simply felt like the next obvious step in life, an open-ended gateway to something more, though she couldn’t say quite what that was.

so clear that Rubio grabbed the closest piece of paper and began scribbling down the exact words she heard:

“I'm to help people–all people. I'm to comfort the sick, counsel the dying, feed the poor, console the sad, help the helpless.”

She felt a sudden and deep sense of peace. The next thing she wrote down was more of a response: "I have no idea how, but this is my path from the Lord. I know, trust, and believe He will continue to direct me."

Rubio pursued a dream of opening a restaurant with a friend, only to close it after the economy tanked in 2008. As an entrepreneur at heart, she launched a concierge service, doing odd jobs for busy professionals. From picking

It all changed on April 2014, when at age 49, Rubio gave her life to the Lord.

In 2015, she was growing in her faith but still floundering professionally until God woke her up from a deep sleep with a very clear path and direction. It was

Her concierge service began to morph, with more requests coming in for companion care for people’s aging relatives. She was transcribing letters to loved ones, helping people make amends and end-of-life decisions, and sometimes even praying with them. She was no longer just checking things off of people’s to-do lists but consoling

THERESA "TERRI" RUBIO MINISTER + CHAPLAIN

"There has to be more to life."

and counseling them–speaking truth into tough situations and navigating family dynamics. She couldn’t help but feel that pursuing that career path–formally, professionally–was what God had meant for her to do next.

“God never wanted me to have a business degree!” she realized.

She only knew of a handful of larger colleges with counseling programs, so she started asking around. Already mid-life and with a full career behind her, she knew she wanted to get her qualifications quickly and set about what God had called her to–though she wasn’t even sure what qualifications she needed. As a mother in a business with ebbs and flows, flexibility was key, and moving wasn’t an option.

“I knew I needed to be online,” she says. She remembers googling programs and stumbling across the accelerated Bachelor of Arts-to-Master of Divinity track at Crown College. It would allow her to take graduate-level courses to meet her undergraduate degree requirements, with dual syllabi dictating when she’d need to do extra or different assignments. By the time she finished her B.A., she’d already be well on her way to the M.Div. She could tailor the program to her very specific career goal by selecting a Pastoral Counseling concentration–one of 14 possible tracks.

Best of all, it could all be done remotely from her home in Pennsylvania, with a courseload designed for busy, working adults. She talked with an admissions counselor, who helped plan out her schedule, figure out finances, and go through her pile of transfer credits–nearly all of which were accepted. In 2016, she officially enrolled.

She’d log in to an online dashboard where she could manage and turn in assignments, complete readings, and get support from the team at

Crown. She remembers finding a deep sense of community with fellow students even though they came from all walks of life and were scattered geographically. "Apparently the Lord works on the internet as well!" Rubio says with a chuckle.

battling mental health issues and relationship struggles was exploding.

Today, she’s an ordained minister and chaplain through International Ministerial Fellowship (IMF), a certified Pastoral Sexual Addiction Professional (PSAP), and even an adjunct professor helping new Crown students pursue pastoral counseling. She’s living out her calling to help all people, comforting the sick and helping the helpless. She’s profoundly grateful for the education she received at Crown and those who helped clear the path for her professional about-face.

She got to know Senior Academic Advisor Kathy Sutherland, who orchestrated Rubio’s course load and ensured she was getting the classes she needed–and was thriving.

“Kathy was amazing, and it just seemed to flow,” Rubio says. Every September, she’d get an updated printout of where she was at in the program, what courses remained, and when she was due to graduate. “I didn’t need anyone else. Even if it wasn’t her job, I think she just did it anyway!”

Along the way, she trained in Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) crisis management, TraumaFocused - Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), and the “Prepare and Enrich” premarital and marriage assessment. Rubio finished her dual-degree program in the spring of 2020, right as the world was reeling from COVID-19. By the time she walked across the stage in a delayed commencement ceremony that December, she had already landed a job as a pastoral counselor at Life Counseling Center in Salisbury, Maryland–thanks in part to the many relevant experiences she gained at Crown. She couldn’t help but notice that she started in the field just as the number of people

“I see God’s fingerprints all over it,” she says of her experience, through tears. “Oh, He touched my heart so often! He wrapped everything up and got me into a career that would allow me to go back to school. I always felt a peace that Crown was where I was meant to be, not trying to fit a square peg in a round hole…”

"When the pieces just fit, and the program just works, you feel blessed."

"When the pieces just fit, + the program just works, you feel blessed."

"Apparently the Lord works on the internet as well!"

JOEL HARMON ALUMNI BOARD PRESIDENT

A Life of Leadership Joel Harmon

By Ryan Synoground

As a young man 18 years of age, Joel Harmon was pursuing a college football career and was set on becoming a Division 1 athlete. He put all his effort and focus into that vision and landed a scholarship to Northern Illinois University. As Joel headed off to attend NIU he experienced a tumultuous freshman year that derailed his life both spiritually and mentally. Thankfully, he realized that a change was necessary as his life was heading down a path without God.

During that summer he started looking for a college where he could grow in his relationship with the Lord, engage in his studies, and have fun playing football. Growing up in the Christian and Missionary Alliance, Joel was familiar with Crown College. Crown's rich history of spiritual formation stood out to him "Crown College was an uncompromising place of faith. It was a place where I could explore my relationship with Christ and recenter my life on Him." Here, Joel learned the importance of being actively engaged in the spiritual transformation of one's heart.

Joel attended Crown College during the 90s. During his time, he had the opportunity to serve on student senate, sing in the college choir, and

lead as a captain of the football team. The community-focused environment enriched many of Joel's natural abilities. "Crown brought out many things within me. Things that I did not know were there." Joel's leadership abilities, academic rigor, and love for the Bible all grew while at Crown. Not only was Crown a place where Joel's skills were refined it was also a place where he formed lifelong relationships. Joel met his wife Amy at Crown and married her in the Crown chapel 27 years ago.

After graduating in 1996, Joel pursued a career in higher education through teaching and coaching. For eight years, he served as a college football coach at various institutions, including Crown's. During this season of life, Joel developed a passion for developing college football players. Investing in these young men taught him the importance of pouring into others.

After receiving his master's degree, He had the opportunity to move into the business world. Taking a courageous step of faith, Joel purchased a fitness franchise called Fitness Together in Leawood, Kansas. Over the next nine years, he grew his franchise and opened multiple locations. In 2012 Joel sold his last franchise, and in 2013 started with Polaris in the sales department.

He just celebrated his tenth anniversary at Polaris, where he currently serves as the Vice President of On-Road Sales and Market Development.

Throughout Joel's life, he has served in a wide variety of leadership positions. He recognized early on that the first step in leadership is learning to lead yourself. By taking small, disciplined steps daily, Joel prepared himself for what God had planned for him. It takes extraordinary courage to step out and say yes to what God is calling you to do. This did not prevent Joel from following God; instead, he found new opportunities to be filled with excitement.

Last year, Dr. Andrew Denton, Crown’s President, asked Joel Harmon if he would be willing to serve as the President of the Alumni Association. Upon hearing President Denton's vision for Crown College, Joel's passion for Crown was reignited. He was honored to serve as the Alumni Association President. Crown has meant the world to Joel, and this opportunity to give back was an opportunity he couldn't pass up.

The Crown College Alumni Association exists to encourage the engagement of alumni and friends of this distinctly Christian College. Joel's vision for the alumni association is just starting

to unfold. He hopes to grow more opportunities for engagement. He also aims to help Crown College alumni expand their network and help them reach new heights in their careers. Recently, Joel and the College Relations team filled the Executive Committee to provide leadership and direction to the alumni association. This committee is designed to help deliver on the mission of encouraging engagement with the alumni and friends of Crown College. The executive committee is made up of five key alum and Joel, each of whom oversees a specific academic area. (See names below). This is the first year that the team is in place and operating.

College Relations

Executive Committee:

› Joel Harmon ’96: President

› Jared Dawson ’95: Liberal Arts

› Andy Kauffman ’92: SOSGS

› Staci Schultz ’01: Business

› Ryan Olson ’99: Ministry

› Debbie Yang ’20: Health Sciences

Crown College is a place that is developing the next generation of Christian leadership. Joel believes that the alumni of Crown College will play a vital role in the advancement of those leaders, "Our alumni can make a difference in the lives of our students. Through their life experience and the lessons they learned while attending Crown College, our alumni can cast a vision for living life in the Kingdom of God."

If you're an alumnus who would like to contribute to the next generation of Christian leaders or connect with our alumni network, you can contact our college relations office at alumni@ crown.edu. Follow Crown College's alumni social media outlets.

Instagram: @crowncollegealumni, Facebook: crowncollegealumni, LinkedIn: Crown College (MN) Alumni.

Barista Duo: Mel + Sue

By Samantha Bergum

When alumni typically think about returning to their alma mater, they may look forward to seeing their favorite faculty. This still rings to be true at Crown, but two people are known to be some of the favorites on campus, these two are Mel and Sue. They have worked as a barista duo for over 15 years. They are a treasure to Crown, but their journey started at Crown far before stepping foot in the coffee shop – which many may not know.

St. Paul Bible College Beginnings

Sue (Kuntscher) Manske, grew up in a different denomination of church in Minnesota. She knew who God was, but did not have a relationship with him. It wasn’t until her senior year of high school she asked Jesus into her life. After graduation, she followed an older brother to the University of Minnesota. As she was there, her brother decided to transfer to St. Paul Bible College (SPBC), and she felt the calling on her life to grow deeper with the Lord and found

herself transferring to SPBC as well. It was there that she met her husband, Dave Manske, and they committed their lives to missions as International Studies majors. After graduating from SPBC, they did church planting for over 2 years and then moved to Brazil serving as missionaries there for 15 years.

Melody (McFadden) Bouchard grew up as an Alliance pastors’ daughter in Montana. Both of her parents attended St. Paul Bible College and were passionate about what the school

stood for. As she grew up, her parents encouraged each of their children to attend at least a year of Bible college. She went for two years to earn her Associate of Arts degree and met her husband, Don, at SPBC. After graduation they moved back to Montana where Don finished his Secondary Education Degree and taught high school English and Mel raised their children as a stay-at-home mom. As the kids grew up, she and Don had the same hope for their children – that they would want to go to Crown for at least a year of christian higher education. As their kids graduated, they indeed found themselves happily sending their children off to Crown. When their first daughter went, the administration began asking Don if he would consider teaching at Crown, and by the time their second daughter went to Crown, the Bouchards decided to accept the position and made the move back to Minnesota and Crown.

Following the Lord's Footsteps

At the time 19 years ago, the coffee shop had just been renovated. Crown had hired someone to run it and that person quit on the first day. In a pinch, they reached out to the faculty and staff asking if they knew anyone interested the job. With most of the

Bouchard children in school, Don asked Mel. Reluctantly, she came for an interview and was hired on the spot.

As Mel ran the coffee shop solo for four years, she struggled as the campus grew and it was too busy of a job for one person. It was then that Sue’s daughter who had been a student at Crown and worked in the coffee shop for Mel, told Sue one day, “Mom you should work in the coffee shop!” When Mel and Sue attended Crown, Sue was a senior and Mel was a freshman. Mel knew of Sue and was excited at the opportunity to hire another full-time barista. When Sue came in for an interview, Mel hired her on the spot. The rest is history.

A Heart for Students

Mel and Sue have now worked together for 15 years and they reflect with gratitude on how God placed them together in the coffee shop. They truly feel that God has placed them here with a calling to love students.

“As the Holy Spirit nudges us and we see a student who is struggling, we take a moment to share an encouraging word and give them a hug to let them know it will be okay,” Mel shared.

Over the years, they have been blessed to see many students grow. They see them come in as freshmen and mature through their graduation. They joked, “We see a lot of relationships start too. Students might not know it, but we see it all.”

They shared they both have mentored many students and have had the opportunity to love on nursing students as they both have daughters who went through the program.

“It isn’t an easy program, and those tests are challenging – so whenever we get the chance to support them, we do,” Both agreed in unison.

"Mel and Sue are amazing, sweet and kind women of God who care about each and every person who comes through. They are always there to listen and talk to you no matter what,” shared, Payton Clevenger.

When asked what the best part of the job is, Sue immediately shares, “We get to make students their happy drink. If they’re having a bad day, it will make it a bit better, and if they are having

SUE (KUNTSCHER) MANSKE

MELODY (MCFADDEN) BOUCHARD

"Mel + Sue are amazing, sweet + kind women of God who care about each + every person who comes through."

PAYTON CLEVENGER, CURRENT JUNIOR

a good day, it’s a worthwhile reward.” She continues, “It’s the best. It's like delivering flowers to someone.”

Just as they are thankful for their opportunity to build relationships on campus, students and alumni share the same gratitude for them.

Crown alum Natalie Davidson ‘22 expressed her gratitude for them, “As mothers of nurses, Mel and Sue quickly became my college moms. They deeply understood the stress and pressure nursing students are under. Their smiles, hugs, prayers,

encouragement, laughter, and of course delicious coffee was often just what I needed to keep going.”

While they aren’t planning to retire just yet, they hope to do it together just like they have been running the coffee shop for the past 15 years together. They are a safe place for many people at Crown, and all faculty, staff, and students feel lucky to have them here; not just as baristas, but as mentors, confidants, and friends.

See you at Homecoming!

One of Mel and Sue’s favorite times of the year is Homecoming. They love to see alumni and their families. This year to honor Mel and Sue and their legacy at Crown, we have added a coupon for a free black coffee or $1.00 off of a drink at homecoming. We hope to see you there!

One Family's Crown Roots

Reach Four Generations

By Monique Kleinhuizen

Philosophy + Theology

St. Paul Bible College 1968

Philosophy + Theology

Trinity International University 1968

Took classes at St. Paul Bible College

1944-1945

History

St. Paul Bible College 1975

Missionary-in-Residence

1995-1996

History Professor

2005-2007

VP of Student Development 2007-2011

CARLBLOM

Christian Education

St. Paul Bible College 1980

Elementary Education 1989

Missionary-in-Residence

1995-1996

MA Educational Leadership 2007

Elementary Education

Crown College 2025

Elementary Education

Crown College 1999

MA Educational Leadership 2007

PHIL RONZHEIMER

HELLEN DORIS (NELSON) DOLE

KIRK RONZHEIMER World Missions Crown College 1998

KOLAYA RONZHEIMER

+ MS Math Endorsement

CALAH (CARLBLOM) RONZHEIMER

MARY ELLEN RONZHEIMER

DWIGHT CARLBLOM

LORI (DOLE)

When Kolaya Ronzheimer ’25 started her first year as an undergrad student at Crown, she had a lot of the same feelings any student would. There was excitement mixed with a bit of apprehension as she began a new chapter in her story.

But as she introduced herself to people on campus, she remembers their eyes lighting up as they exclaimed, “Hey, I think I know your family!”

Kolaya doesn’t get into much detail about the lead-up to enrolling at Crown. Crown was an obvious choice, with her family’s connections. The finances worked out, and it had the major she wanted: elementary education. While the logistics were one thing, there was also a warmth she felt from the community almost immediately. "It was cool to be known," she says, simply after her first weeks on campus.

Born in South Korea to Crown alumni–missionaries and educators Kirk ’98 and Calah (Carlblom) Ronzheimer ’99– Kolaya lived overseas her entire life, spending time in the Philippines, Laos, and Malaysia. It wasn’t until she was about to start college that her family moved back to the States.

The Doles + Carlbloms

As the others in her classes were adjusting to campus, for Kolaya, there was also a little culture shock. But she came to campus as a legacy student and then some. Kolaya represents the third generation to attend Crown on her dad’s side, and the fourth on her mom’s–with her great-grandmother Helen (Nelson)

Dole taking classes at Saint Paul Bible College (SPBC) in the 1944 school year.

The Doles were lifelong members of a C&MA church in Omaha, Nebraska, and

Helen’s daughter, Lori (Dole) Carlblom, began her time at SPBC in the 1970s, pursuing an education degree. Before she had even enrolled, she crossed paths with her future husband and ministry partner Dwight Carlblom. He was from the small town of Windom, Minnesota, and remembers touring Christian colleges with his youth pastor. Though they visited several local campuses, he felt something different at Crown.

“I was surrounded by adults–and students–who were serious about their Christian faith and living every day for Christ. I was raised in a Christian home and had a sense that God was calling me into missions, but it was never all that personal. I had never really seen faith like that before",

missions, spending 23 years serving at the Dalat International School in Malaysia through the C&MA.

They briefly moved back to the United States to become Missionaries-inResidence at Crown and support their daughter, Calah, as she started as an undergrad in the education department. Years later, Dwight accepted a position as a history professor at Crown and eventually became Vice President of Student Development. Dwight and Lori look back on the distinct seasons in which their life and ministry intersected with the community at Crown. They noticed a few changes–updates to the campus, a more diverse student body, and more programs and formats–but consistency where it matters, keeping Christ at the center.

he says, recalling late-night dormroom discussions about theology and life. “A community like that just sets you up for your future in terms of the kind of person you’re going to be.”

He remembers being deeply inspired by the way professors approached leading a classroom and saw their role as more than grading papers or going through lesson plans. It’s what inspired him to pursue a degree in history and a career in education.

Dwight and Lori planned their wedding to coincide with Christmas break so their many college friends could be a part of the celebration. The couple went into international education and

“For one, there’s been tremendous growth and development of who the students are on campus–and especially how you see more women in leadership,” says Lori, who in retirement remains an active volunteer with a deep commitment to education and literacy. “In overseas missions, in many cultures, women take a front-row seat in ministry. I’m excited that Crown has stepped into a new era, with strong female leaders.”

Dwight calls out the “small-school” feel that was a draw for him and remains today. “Even now, with Kolaya going back, there are professors that know her personally,” he says. “And it has maintained its identity as a conservative Christian school. They’re staying solid in their principles, beliefs, doctrine, and culture. It’s neat to see, in today’s day and age…when I knew that Kolaya was going to go there, it just set my heart at ease. It’s just so good that there are people there that will love my granddaughter and care for her. I couldn’t ask for anything more.”

DWIGHT CARLBLOM '75,

"...I had never really seen faith like that before,"

The Ronzheimers

On the other side of the family tree, Phil Ronzheimer ’67 grew up in a C&MA church in Chicago and felt a distinct call to ministry from an early age. He followed his cousin Dorothy to SPBC, studying philosophy and theology at the old Como campus. He met his wife Mary Ellen while in seminary at Trinity International University. The couple spent their career pastoring Christian and Missionary Alliance (C&MA) churches until Phil retired in 2015.

“I just absolutely loved Crown,” Phil says, recalling the summers he spent traveling with the music department and in Christian service, including a mission group that toured Ecuador.

"I was still deciding what to do with my life. College was such a good place to find out what God wanted with me and my life," he says. “I was still deciding what to do with my life." He adds that some of the relationships he built during that formative part of his life supported and encouraged him through decades of pastoral ministry across the United States and abroad. He still gets together

with college “buddies” monthly, and he’s glad to see those connections continue for subsequent generations.

“We feel so grateful that [Kolaya] is in a Christian community and pursuing Christian education,” says Phil. “It’s important to have solid friendships, a good direction in life, and that prayer and support network.”

The Path to Crown

Kirk was no stranger to Crown and heard about it often from his dad and uncles who had attended. As a student, he built his own connections and memories, traveling to Russia with Alliance Youth Core, Europe with the choir, and Alaska with the basketball team. “Who gets to do this stuff? For such a small place, we did such big things!” he says.

PHIL RONZHEIMER '68

"College was such a good place to find out what God wanted with me + my life,"

KIRK RONZHEIMER BASKETBALL

CALAH RONZHEIMER + JOEL RONZHEIMER (KIRK'S BROTHER) HOMECOMING QUEEN + KING

CALAH CARLBLOM - VOLLEYBALL

KIRK RONZHEIMER WITH CELEBRATION SINGING GROUP

Kirk and Calah met early on in her college years, and the two expanded their network. Professors would regularly invite them over for dinner or a bonfire, and it was about more than just food and fun, it was about deep-rooted community.

Calah had spent most of her childhood abroad and remembers those experiences putting her at ease. “It was a big transition–a massive shift–but I had so many professors that looked out for students like me, and included me," Calah says.

Calah says. “And now Kolaya’s part of the family, too. She was from day one.”

Kirk agrees, explaining that his family moved around a lot in support of his dad’s ministry, not unlike Calah’s missionary upbringing.

“We didn’t feel like we had roots. Crown is our roots. Even though we don’t have that anywhere else in the United States, there’s rootedness there,” Kirk says. “We’re known, and it’s really special.”

Crown holds a special place in the family, as they have all grown in their own ways but have had the shared experience of a Christ-centered education and lifelong community.

CALAH (CARLBLOM) RONZHEIMER '99

"...I had so many professors that looked out for students like me, + included me,"

PHIL RONZHEIMER - WESTERN TOUR GROUP DWIGHT CARLBLOM MISSIONARY IN RESIDENCE WITH MISSIONARY CABINET '95-96

KOLAYA CARLBLOM + FRIENDS

LORI CARLBLOM - CALAH CARLBLOM - KOLAYA CARLBLOM

Faithful to the Call

Dr. Phil Peterson

By Ryan Synoground

From an early age, Dr. Phil Petersen felt a call to ministry. Coming from a family of pastors, Dr. Petersen's father and grandfather served in ministry. After attending Taylor University and completing seminary training at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School, Dr. Petersen served 11 years in pastoral ministry. "As a pastor, I was always operating in the gift of teaching." Dr. Petersen says. After some time, he started a Bible Institute at his church through Bethel college in Indiana. He was often investing in young men and helping them engage in ministry.

While completing his Doctoral work in Detroit, Dr. Petersen started a job search. Dr. Petersen's wife, Debra, respectfully asked, "please don't apply to any positions in Canada or Minnesota. That would be too cold." Lo and behold, Dr. Petersen found a job opportunity in the magazine

Christianity Today, a teaching position at Crown College. In 1989, Dr. Petersen worked at a Missionary Church, a sister denomination to the Christian and Missionary Alliance. At first, Crown felt it would be best to hire someone within the Alliance directly, but after further consideration, the President of Crown Dr. Bill Lanpher flew out to Michigan to meet with Dr. Petersen. After a spiritfilled meeting, Crown College offered him the position. Dr. Petersen and

Debra talked through this offer together, and after seeking the Lord, the Petersens knew that Phil would fit best teaching people and equipping them for ministry.

For over 32 years, Dr. Petersen served at Crown College. Throughout his time, he served as Chaplain, Chair of the Christian Ministry Department, and Professor of Pastoral Leadership. Crown was a wonderful place for the Petersens. "Crown is a place where you can receive an overwhelming amount of support and encouragement. You can talk about theological issues and personal issues."

spreading across the United States, working its way up the Mississippi. After the student senate-speeches in chapel, students from other campuses shared what was happening across the U.S. To close the chapel, Dr. Petersen invited the students to stay and seek the Lord as they desired and prayed over the student body. For about 30 seconds, nobody moved. And then it happened. Students began coming forward and confessing their sins. Prayer broke out among the people, and the chapel continued until 3:00 pm. The campus reconvened at 9:00 pm that night and worshipped until midnight. This schedule lasted for several days, with prayer and worship breaking out every morning and evening. Dr. Petersen describes that time as "a time of real peace and kindness and love, you would walk through the hallways, and people would stop and pray for you. It was one of those things that is really hard to describe until you experience it." At the close of the weekend, Crown students went out to local churches, and the revival continued to spread.

One of Dr. Petersen's most cherished memories at Crown was when God began a revival through students on campus in 1995. Dr. Petersen served as the Chaplain then and worked with student development. A revival had been

DR. PHIL PETERSEN FORMER CAMPUS CHAPLAIN, FORMER CHAIR OF CHRISTIAN MINISTRY DEPARTMENT, + FORMER PROFESSOR OF PASTORAL LEADERSHIP

As Dr. Petersen looks back at his time, the National Office trips are among his fondest memories. For 28 years, Dr. Petersen would lead a trip with ministry majors and take them to visit the National Office of the Christian and Missionary Alliance. Nearly 700 students made that trip throughout

"Crown is a place where you can receive an overwhelming amount of support + encouragement."

Dr. Petersen's time. "I felt like I was there when I was in 'the room where it happened.' Many of those students would feel the call of God on their life and get plugged into ministry."

Dr. Petersen and Debra, often had students over for dinner, where they would hang out and talk. "Any time a professor is able to connect with their students outside of the classroom, it's good. I always enjoyed walking alongside our students." As Dr. Petersen reflects on his time at Crown, he will miss the people the most. He prays that the community will continue to be Christcentered and make Jesus a priority.

"It is more than just knowing about Him, it's about truly knowing Him. Seeking Him through His Word and living out a life of obedience is crucial to the Christian life. We must know Him so that we may show him. As our culture becomes increasingly secularized, it can be easy for us to fall into despair, but we don't have to be afraid of culture. We don't have to stay quiet. Let us be

confident in who we are in Christ. Following Jesus is truly a better life. We can have this joy, confidence, and hope knowing God owns the future."

you’ wafted over me. I was so grateful that God allowed me to stay in one place for so long. I was filled with thanksgiving and gratitude." While Dr. Petersen received many job offers over the years, he faithfully trusted God in keeping him at Crown. "There is a lot of value in staying in one place."

As Dr. Petersen transitions away from Crown, he is still excited about Crown's future. "I'm leaving too soon; the administration has a great vision and a great heart. As I pass the baton to the next generation, it's not about me. I know God is doing something new."

When Dr. Petersen packed up his office over Christmas break last winter, he couldn't help but feel overcome by God's goodness. "The words ‘thank

While Dr. Petersen is retiring from Crown, he certainly plans to stay busy. He will be running a weekly class at Parkside Church in Waconia this fall. Dr. Petersen currently lives in Saint Bonifacius with Debra. He will continue to rest in the Lord's presence as he listens to what God has for him and Debra. His desire to come alongside the church will never go away.

Dr. Petersen's impact on the Crown Community cannot be expressed in one article. The lives he has touched over his three decades of service will forever be grateful to the man who listened to the call. We will always remember humble servants like Dr. Petersen, who showed us God's goodness and grace daily. Thank you, Dr. Phil Petersen.

"We can have this joy, confidence, + hope knowing God owns the future."

DR. PETERSEN SHARES AT HIS RETIREMENT PARTY

› We have 10 teacher candidates who are working hard in their student teaching placements.

› We are establishing a Designated School Partnership with Waconia Public Schools, which will be in addition to our DSP with Watertown Elementary School.

› PELSB is anticipated to approve the new Standards of Effective practice this spring. Crown will remain steadfast in its convictions to prepare pre-service teachers through a Christian worldview.

› Hosted the Honors Banquet on January 19th, there was a total of 32 candidates with an average ACT score of 28. There were 21 acceptance offers sent out.

› Next Conference: Conference for Youth and Children’s ministry workers, was held on March 4th. There was a total of 250 people at the day long conference. There were 20 students who volunteered and 4 that presented.

› Dr. Don Bouchard published a book: Jesus Still Speaks: A seven-week, forty-day, Lenten devotional by Don. D. Bouchard and Larry L. Long.

› Nursing Program - Official Board of Nursing Pass rates for 2022 ended at 100%.

› Nursing Program - CCNE Accreditation affirmed through site visit Fall 2022. Affirmed for continued accreditation. Final letters are expected in August 2023.

› Promotion of Pre-professional degree supporting students to enter up to 17 different professional graduate degrees following successful completion of their bachelor's degree at Crown. Marketing plan developed and being implemented.

› Connection with professional degree graduates for testimonials of how their foundation at Crown supported them through their graduate school, residency, and other graduate degrees.  Working to strengthen Alumni connections with these graduates.

› Center for Leadership Prelaunch event with 60 Christian business professionals to raise awareness and create interest.

› Working on a formal launch event for the Leadership Center.

› Bringing business leaders to campus to showcase and give them exposure to our school, leadership, faculty, and students.

› Recruiting “Ambassadors” from the business community to actively engage with us and catch our vision for the future.

› Creating a network for business internships, business mentors, and a robust job placement process for our graduating students.

› Bringing business and sport management professionals into our classrooms to give our students first-hand perspective from people “in the field”.

› Actively searching and interviewing for 2 School of Business faculty positions to strengthen our faculty, which will help us to drive both academic excellence and real-world application in the classroom.

School of Liberal Arts, Education, + Vocational Ministry

School of Health + Sciences

School of Business

HONORS BANQUET NURSING STUDENTS BUSINESS EVENT

Athletics

› We opened a new Athletic Training space in January, completed by Vos Construction. The increased space and design is a big win for our Athletic Department and student-athletes.

› The Polars had 37 studentathletes named to Fall Academic All-Conference

› The women’s basketball program won 6 straight games and finished 14-11 overall. Making program history for most wins in a season, most wins in UMAC conference play, and the longest win streak since joining the NCAA

- Madi Hecox won 3 UMAC player of the week awards.

› Men’s basketball finished 20-11 with 3 wins versus MIAC schools.

› Most wins in a season.

› NCCAA Regional Champions and attended the National Championship for the 2nd year in a row, finishing in 3rd place.

- Seth Royston broke the career record for blocks

› Men's and Women's Indoor track + field team broke 13 school records

- 7 All-Conference Selections

- Women's tied for best finish at UMAC Indoor Championships

- Abby Pausch - won 1 UMAC Player of the week selection

› The Tennis program partnered with Lifetime Fitness to utilize their indoor courts for practice.

ABBY PAUSCH

MADI HECOX

ANNA ANDERSON SANCHEZ

SETH ROYSTON

ELLIE SCHANBACHER

Alumni News

50's

Lillian (Amstutz) Phillips '54

Lillian went as a missionary nurse to Vietnam under the Christian and Missionary Alliance in 1958. She married Richard L. Phillips in 1960. Richard was also sent to Vietnam as a missionary linguist under the Christian and Missionary Alliance. in 1958. We served together in Vietnam and later in Burkina Faso through Bible translation and medical ministry. We thank the Lord for helping us, and others, in producing a Bible in each country. We are now retired. We had 4 children, 13 grands and 3 great-grands.

Carolyn Erbst '56

I'm still living at Shell Point Retirement Community but since my apartment was washed out in the Hurricaine I have moved to one of the assisted living buildings.

60's

Darlys (Olson) Westlund '60

My husband Milt Westlund graduated in 1959 and went to be with Jesus 9/15/2016. We met at SPBC and the rest is history...our years there were full and a blest time of our lives. Just like the rest of our married life, 56 years. He is so faithful!

Sheryl (Brallier) Dean '68

Will marry Charlie Johnston Dec 4, 2022. He associated with Navigators ministry.

Sandra (Koenigseker) Stare '68

Retired from education and religious leadership. Married 42 yrs to John, 5 children, 111 grandchildren, 5 great grandchildren.

Judith (Pata) Carlson '68

Married Richard L Carlson 2020. Rich was employed in finance area after Rev Miller. My husband Jim Wiens died in 2017. Rich and I are blessed to have met one another 2020. We were married in a Zoom wedding as Covid would not allow us to have more than 10 people together!

70's

Sherilyn (Huerstel) Litzkow '72

I retired in Dec 2017 and am now enjoying the freedom to write, watercolor, and enjoy spending time with my husband, children and grandchildren. Steve and I lead a small group from our church which brings us great joy and fellowship with other believers! This year marked my 50 year reunion from Crown College (SPBC) and I was able to attend a wonderful celebration with classmates provided by the alumni association. It was such a great experience to connect after so long with friends!

Paul Barnes '74

I was re-married on March 13, 2021 after my Crown College alumni wife, Rebecca died in 2016.

Virginia (Ginnie) Tyler '76

Retired from music instruction (strings specialist/ orchestra) at Lincoln (NE) Christian School. David and I are enjoying grandparenting, ministering in music, & Bible studies in the warmth of Texas.

Robert and Janean Vineyard '79

Living a wonderful retired life here in Arkansas. We have two grown sons and three beautiful grandchildren. God has been very good to us and I am eternally grateful.

80's

John Saxe '83

I retired from teaching in the public schools of Ohio in the Spring of 2021 - and am now teaching at Sunshine Bible Academy in SD.

Maurice Russell '85

Retired pastor (after 35 years serving with the Alliance in Iowa and Minnesota. Author of seven books. I continue to attend Nowthen Alliance Church (where my wife, Dorene, and I first came into the Alliance in 1972. I teach adult Sunday School, Saturday morning Men's Bible Study, fill pulpits when invited.

Darrell and Susie Anderson '86

My wife Susie (Dec. 1986) become grandparents for the first time in December of 2021, a boy! We have been babysitting him a lot and enjoy it.

Laura Burdo '86

3 of 4 sons are now married—excited to welcome women into the family! I’ve worked part-time the past 5 years as a Unit Secretary/Scheduler in PeriOperative Services at our local hospital. Husband Paul retired Spring of ‘22. Serving on Missions Committee at an E Free church in Spofford, NH.

David Dunn '87

Taking high school students and their family members to Greece and Italy during June 2023 for an educational excursion. (Still a couple spot’s available.)

Wang and Phua Lee '88 & '89

We have five children and our oldest son also graduated from Crown in 2021. Since 1988, we have served as senior pastor at four different Alliance churches in the United States and also served as associate Missionary to South America. Since 2017, Wang is the director for Hmong Christian Institute of the Hmong District of the C&MA. Our central office is in Thornton, CO.

90's

Joy Stahl

'90

At the beginning of the 2022-2023 school year, I changed positions at my school. I moved from teaching 7th & 8th grade English Language Arts, to being our middle school's Title I teacher. I also coordinate testing in our building, do migrant/ESOL tutoring, and teach an evening ESOL class for adults (2 nights a week).

Denise Williamson '93

Serving as missionaries with Missionary Aviation Repair Center in Soldotna, AK since June 2021.

Julie Maas-Kusske '97

Currently serving in my second term as Mayor of Maple Plain. Recently selected to serve as the 4th VP of the Minnesota Mayor's Association. Was awarded the 2020 Distinguished Alumni Award from Orono High School.

Geoff Grudzinski '99

Geoff Grudzinski had his first art gallery exhibit and considers his ability to be creative as a gift from God and a source of healing and peace. Through some medical misdiagnosis, found himself in the hospital with lithium toxicity. The permanent damage impacted his cognitive abilities and analytical thinking, forcing him to give up much of what he was involved in (doctoral student, professor, board member, church elder). Thankfully, the creative side of his brain took over. Geoff was able to pick up the paintbrush without any formal training in art and began producing beautiful work that came to him naturally. He has donated pieces to various benefits and has gifted many to friends and family. His art is displayed across the United States and Canada. He is actively involved with his local church and enjoys spending time with his beloved wife Heather (‘99) and four children.

00's

Keith Beckwith '00

MDiv from Liberty Seminary, emphasis in Crisis Counseling, USAF Chaplain. Former Sr. Pastor of Cornerstone Community Church in Northfield MN, Minnesota National Guard Operations Chaplain and Wing Chaplain, 133rd Airlift Wing St. Paul, MN

Nathan Grossoehme '04

New job as ministries pastor @ Grove City Alliance Chuch in Grove City, Pennsylvania

Carol Brown '04

I have retired, became widowed, and I volunteer practice Pastoral Counseling at a church

Linda Stolp-Matanic, Ph.D. '05 & '11

I completed my Ph.D. in June of 2018. I currently work as a Dissertation Content Expert, Dissertation Chair, and Adjunct Faculty Member teaching Software and Industrial and Organizational Psychology at Grand Canyon University. I also work at Optum as a Principal Engineer - Technology Leadership Career Path.

Greg Weaver '07

CEO Bates County Memorial Hospital Butler MO; Ordained Minister Assembly of God

Johnny and Choua Yang '07 & '08

Choua works for Timber Bay and Johnny works for Hennepin County. We happily have four kids.

Bronwyn (Weiss) Neuman '08

Birth Harrison Leigh Neuman 9/8/2019 and Jackson Thomas Neuman 2/5/2022

Nancy Barrow '09

Currently serving as the Lead Pastor at the Warrensburg Free Methodist Church in upstate NY, and as a District Leader in our regional conference system. We are enjoying life with our 5 grandchildren.

10's

Sara (Johnson) Kangas '10

Graduated June 2022 with a Master's in Elementary Education and am now teaching 6th grade math at North Heights Christian Academy in Roseville MN.

Megan (Peterson) Schreck '11

2 new babies - Levi in 2019 & June in 2022.

Rachael (Sorenson) Bomsta '11

I have three children: Wyatt (4), West (3), and Wylder (3 months). I work as the Creative Arts Director at Heartland Evangelical Free Church!

Stephanie (Thoen) Erickson '11

My husband, Luke, and I have a son (Zachary). I am working at New Testament Christian School.

Paula St John '12

Grew through the seasons of becoming emptynesters, home downsizing and several job eliminations during 2017-2021. I am now employed as a nurse supports-coordinator and working towards meaningful retirement in June of 2023. He is my provider and strength.

Mariah Zieroth '13

Recently finished a stint in travel nursing and beginning a staff position as a pediatric ICU nurse in North Carolina. The experience and education at Crown College has helped me care, comfort, & pray with numerous families during their child’s most critical moments. To God be the glory!

Memorials

Roxanne (Jacobson) Pokrzywinski '15

Completed my Doctorate in Education: Teaching and Learning

Sherri Tyler '15

Last year I got my license and work part time dealing table games at a casino. Last year, I got my teaching license and have been working in the local school part time. I worked in the bakery part time during covid. I got my tax preparers PTIN for freelance work in corporate tax. I have work experience for seven years as an actuary, and an MBA from Crown College.

Matthew Lower '17

Senior Pastor Role at Crosswinds Alliance Church in Butler, PA (March 2021)

Kaitlin (Ruiter) Duan '18

I got married in 2021.

Briana Southerland '19

I am working as the Share Ministries Pastor at First Alliance Church in Calgary, AB (since 2019) and Austin and I had our first child - Mia Southerland on April 29, 2022.

20's

Valonda Leichty '20

Currently serving as worship director for The Way Church, Salem, OR. The Way Church is a small C&MA church, planted about 4 years ago, so the position I am serving in is an unpaid ministry role.

Tess Ler '20

I was teaching in Savage, MT for the past two years. I moved to a bigger school this year to the middle school that I thought in!

Victoria (Schrack) Woodhall '22

I recently got married!

Died unexpectedly on March 3, 2023 in Woodbury, MN at the age of 48. He was preceded in death by his mother, Carol. Brian will be deeply missed by his beloved wife, Melissa; father, Steven and step-mother, Joyce; sister, Amy (Nathan) Fritz; and many other dear family and friends.

Brian was born on June 20,1974, in Cambridge, Nebraska to Steven and Carol Henning. He graduated from Crown College in 1996 with a degree in Business Administration. He married Melissa Howard in 2010.

Brian worked for Thomson Reuters for many years. Even though Brian was passionate about all-things Minnesota sports, he fell in love with and married Melissa Howard, an avid Green Bay Packer fan. Only a great love can overcome that rivalry. Among the many things that he enjoyed were hoping the Vikings would someday not break his heart, fantasy football, playing card games with his friends and family, and spoiling his nieces and nephews.

David W. Osterhus was born on February 11, 1933 in Minneapolis, MN to Cyrus and Ruth Osterhus; three siblings followed: Philip, Daniel, and Lois. In 1951, David graduated from Robbinsdale High School with honors, where he participated in band as a trombonist, played basketball, and was president of the Youth Christ club. David graduated in 1954 from St. Paul Bible Institute with a diploma in Missions, where he was also a member of the Chorale. In 1954, he married Carol Elaine, his wife of 68 years. He graduated from Moody Aviation in 1960 as a pilot/mechanic. David and Carol had four children: Rebecca Osterhus, Julie (John) Pugleasa, Deborah (O.G.) Blouin, and Daniel (Sue) Osterhus; eleven grandchildren and seven great grandchildren. From 1961 - 1975, David

served as a pilot/mechanic with Mission Aviation Fellowship in Ecuador; David and Carol continued their service in Ecuador as dorm parents while David also served as the business manager with Avant Mission, from 1975 - 1987. David continued to serve with Avant as a mission representative and ministering to MKs from 1987 until retirement in 1998. After retirement from official duties with Avant, he took over bookkeeping and business management at Osterhus Publishing, relinquishing those duties only days prior to his death on September 27, 2022 at age 89. Memorials proffered to Mission Aviation Fellowship, Avant Ministries, and Osterhus Publishing.

Brian Henning - MARCH 3, 2023

David W. Osterhus - SEPTEMBER 27, 2022

8700 COLLEGE VIEW DRIVE SAINT BONIFACIUS, MN 55375