For Thoughtful and Informed Living

A diverse university prepares students to engage thoughtfully with global perspectives.

Fostering Relationships

Thoughtful and informed living, to be certain, involves curriculum, courses, research, internships, and other activities associated with academic pursuits. At a university like Concordia, relationships are a key part of preparing students to live out their callings. Here, students from around the United States and across the world, from myriad backgrounds, come together in pursuit of knowledge and desire to grow in wisdom and understanding.

Concordia Today

The fall 2021 student census highlights the tremendous diversity within Concordia’s students. Women comprise 65% of the 5,526 students. Of the 1,695 traditional undergraduate students, no single ethnic group constitues a majority. Students of all ages attend CSP, from high school aged PSEO students to a handful of students who are 65 and older. Besides the United States, students come from 34 different countries.

Student Body President Justin Kohlman, ‘22 reflects on what this diversity has meant for his own education: “Coming from a small town that wasn’t the most diverse, I’ve loved the experience of being at such a diverse university. Having the opportunity to meet people from across the country and across the world is not an experience that you get at many smaller universities.”

“When diversity is built into the fabric of your organization, all things will prosper.”

Perspectives that Prepare

As Concordia provides opportunities for students to receive an education and engage with those different from themselves, powerful outcomes happen. Aqueelah Roberson, Director of the Dr. Cheryl T. Chatman Diversity Center, explains: “In a diverse community where respecting and valuing others is conscientiously endorsed, a keen sense of cultural awareness and sensitivity is fostered. Through this fostering, a high regard for humanity is cultivated and an indelible mark is made in fortifying communities.”

This mark doesn’t just last while a student attends Concordia, but carries into all aspects of life and career. Chief Diversity Officer Mychal Thom notes that diversity “provides students an opportunity for personal growth, personal learning, and ultimately, chances to lead in the future.”

Anna Klombies, BA ‘07, has built a career in human resources, mainly in tech startups. In her experience, diversity within a workplace is a strength: “Diversity brings different perspectives— distinct perspectives—which is awesome; it leads to innovation and creativity,” she observes. “I think it leads to people having very meaningful discussions, which lead to better decisions and better outcomes.”

With extensive professional experience in secondary and higher education, Chris Dennis, BA ‘05, MA ‘08, agrees. “When you have a diversity of all kinds of things, the bottom line is better.”

Aaron Taylor, BA ‘04, MA ‘12, works in talent acquisition for a large construction firm, and sees the same thing in his profession: “When [diversity] is built into the fabric of your organization, all things will prosper.”

In the Context of the Gospel

Recognizing the centrality of diversity as one of Concordia’s key strengths, in 2019, Concordia’s Board of Regents adopted a diversity plan as part of the university’s strategic plan. Rooted in the gospel, this plan lays out how CSP can best fulfill the phrase “Christ is honored and all are welcome” found in its promise statement.

President Brian Friedrich reflects on the importance of the diversity plan: “With prayer and humility, this plan serves to guide us as we walk together in community, to listen to and learn from one another, and see one another as God’s image-bearers. We realize, as sinful people, we do not live out this love perfectly, and we rely on God’s grace constantly.”

Awareness and Growth

Alumni Dennis and Taylor co-founded a consulting and coaching firm called The Campus Culture Group. In their work, they help individuals and organizations develop a better understanding of diversity, equity, and inclusion practices; change management; and community engagement and belonging.

Partnering with Concordia’s Office of Alumni Relations, Dennis and Taylor have led online workshops for members of the CSP community, providing insights into how people can succeed in the workplace and beyond. Regarding their philosophy of how to become culturally responsive and aware, Taylor shares, “It’s ok to be uncomfortable, and you’re going to learn from being uncomfortable.”

“Learning is a curious endeavor, and once you find things out, then you’re aware and informed,” Dennis adds, “CSP is working with us to try and have some of those conversations in ways to make them more accessible to folks.”

Thom echoes the importance of these conversations: “We serve others with a love that Christ modeled for us, not afraid to engage in the stories of those around us, and realize that the grace he freely gives us abounds.”

Story: Billy Schultz, BA ‘08, MA ‘11 | Photos: Concordia University Marketing