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Tara Kingland 2015
VP FOR ENGAGEMENT & ADVANCEMENT, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF THE WALDORF LUTHERAN COLLEGE FOUNDATION - Severin Roberts
William (Bill) & Mary (Carlson) Johnson, both class of 1958, have a beautiful story of love that all started right here at Waldorf.
ADDITIONAL FEATURES 12 True "Warrior" Love
4 From President Alsop's Desk
10 Bolstorff & Beebe Gateway
18 My Waldorf Story Diana Humble 2020
The Waldorf University Magazine is created by the Office of Engagement & Advancement in conjunction with the Office of Marketing & Communications in partnership with the Waldorf Lutheran College Foundation.
Send address updates and class notes to: Waldorf Alumni Office 106 South 6th St. Forest City, IA 50436 alumni@waldorf.edu
2025 is here, and we look forward to reconnecting with alumni and friends of Waldorf throughout the year!
In 2024, we had several alumni meetups, and the first meetup of 2025 will be held in Indianapolis, Indiana. We hope to see you at some of our upcoming events, and there are more events being planned!
If you have interest in hosting a meetup in your area, please contact us at alumni@waldorf.edu - we'd love to coordinate with you!
Stay tuned to event updates and new listings at waldorf.edu/events
Iowa State Fair Waldorf Booth
Thursday, August 7 - Sunday, August 17
Varied Industries Building Iowa State Fairgrounds
3000 E Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA
Want to work a shift at the booth this year? Email us at alumni@waldorf.edu
A Letter from the President's Desk
A popular meme on social media is the “how it started; how it’s going!” meme. The meme uses two pictures to compare how someone, or something, has changed over a period of time. It seems fitting at the two-year anniversary of Waldorf’s change of ownership to create a word picture of how it started and how it’s going. Above is an example of this meme, featuring... me! On the left is me in 1998 during my first year as a Professor of English at Waldorf. On the right is me today, as current President of Waldorf.
Finance Picture
On December 1, 2022, the Waldorf Lutheran College Foundation took ownership of Waldorf University from Columbia Southern Education Group (CSEG). To allow for this purchase to take place, the Foundation had to assume the $5.2M remaining balance on the University’s historic debt along with a plan to pay off the $2.5M balance due to CSEG. Due to the generosity of the Hanson Family Foundation, Waldorf was able to refinance the loan at a local bank, committing to annual $1M principal payments while Waldorf only pays the interest. CSEG agreed to terms with the Foundation allowing Waldorf to defer interest payments for the first ten months, followed by interest only payments for the next year, leading to a four-year payoff of the balance due.
As of December 1, 2024, the balance of Waldorf’s debt is $2.2M, with the continued commitment from the Hanson Family Foundation to make principal payments while Waldorf only pays interest. The balance of $2.5M owed to CSEG has been eliminated. This was accomplished by the generosity of Bill and Mary Johnson (both members of the Class of 1958) along with the kindness of the Mayes/Cooley family who were willing to take a lesser amount with a lump sum payment. So, as it stands today, Waldorf’s debt service for the year stands at $88,000. This is an enviable position for any college or university to be in.
How it started.
How it's going!
Enrollment Picture
For the fall of 2022 Waldorf University was coming through the pandemic. Counterintuitively, campus enrollment had grown during this time while online enrollment began to fall. Enrollment has been a challenge in higher education over the last several years, largely due to a phenomenon referred to as the "enrollment cliff". This is caused by fewer students graduating high school combined with a smaller percentage choosing to go to college right out of high school.
In 2024 campus enrollment remains in record territory while online enrollment continues to recover from the pandemic. We have maintained our position as the third largest private school in the state of Iowa. We have positioned ourselves for growth by rallying around our strength. Waldorf provides an environment where students can be successful in their academic pursuits while pursuing their other passions. We call this the AND. The AND reflects Waldorf’s developmental approach to education, combining the liberal arts with a career and professional focus that develops the entire person. AND embodies Waldorf’s mission, vision, and values by highlighting the importance of pursuing and connecting personalized growth opportunities that extend well beyond the classroom. This leads to high-impact lives of vocational discernment, leadership, success, and service.
Culture Picture
On December 1, 2022, Waldorf University returned to the nonprofit ownership of the Waldorf Lutheran College Foundation. For the previous 12 years it was a for-profit university. As a for-profit university, Waldorf was limited in many of its significant affiliations. The by-laws of the Evangelical Church of America (ELCA) did not allow for a forprofit school to be a member institution affiliated with the other ELCA Colleges and Universities. While we continued many of our practices as a Lutheran university, including chapel, Bible studies, religion requirements, and mission trips, we did not have that affiliation to tether our work to a larger mission. Similarly, our athletic conference also excluded forprofit colleges and universities from membership, leaving us as an independent until we found a home with North Star Athletic Association, which had our athletic teams travelling from Wisconsin to western North Dakota.
As of December 1, 2024, Waldorf finds itself formally reaffiliated with the Network of ELCA Colleges and Universities (NECU). This affiliation has opened several professional and spiritual development opportunities for our faculty, staff, and students. In addition, Waldorf has successfully called a campus chaplain, Rev. Jeniffer Tillman, who will begin her work in January of 2025, enhancing and elevating student ministry on campus. Our NECU affiliation also allowed Waldorf to change athletic conferences to the Great Plains Athletic Conference (GPAC). The GPAC only allows nonprofit, faith-based institutions into membership. Waldorf is now affiliated with similar colleges in a footprint that allows for less travel and time away from class.
While it is fun to compare the then and the now, it is even more exciting to look to the future of Waldorf University. It has a future with thriving enrollment and no debt, a future that educates the whole person by offering, acknowledging, and supporting the learning that takes place both inside and outside the classroom, and a future with a vibrant campus ministry. Waldorf is not just surviving during higher education challenging times - it is thriving and flourishing.
For Waldorf,
Dr. Robert A. Alsop Waldorf University President
50th Class Reunion - 1974
Waldorf Hall of Fame Class of 2024
All-Conference Pitcher 2011 8-1 record, 1.95 ERA
All-American, Team Captain 23 goals, 19 assists - Career
L-R: Front row - Steve Hansen, Edgar B Baxton II, Luther Thoresen, Michelle (Thiele) Parsons, Mary Perkins, Cindy (Opdahl) Moore, Diane Westby Larsen. Back row - Kevin Hanson, Russ Osnes, Bob Larkin, Tim Miller, Lowell Magelssen, Arlin Danielson, Gene Niewoehner, Joel Meyer, Tom Jolivette, Kathy Skattebo Meyer, Sue Hennessy Lande
Matthew Klaus, in black, with family
William Helgestad, in purple, with family
60th Class Reunion - 1964
Robert Lee Dowell Jr. - Basketball
First Team All-Region, Warrior Captain's Plaque Men's All-Time JUCO Leading Scorer
In 1997, Rob broke the 2-year all-time leading scoring record with 1,129 points and single-season scoring record with 637 points during his sophomore year. Rob will hold these records in perpetuity in the 2-year junior college category for Waldorf men’s basketball.
Robert Lee Dowell Jr.'s legacy lives on at Waldorf. He and his sister left us too soon following a car accident the summer after Rob's graduation from Waldorf in 1997.
His father, Robert Dowell,
and his wife Doris accepted the award on his behalf.
L-R: Front row - Rosemary (Tomter) Helwig, Lucy (Moland) Miller, Carol (Legreid) Iverson, Judy (Sheldahl) Browning, Sally (Lee) Johnson, Joan (Allmen) Twedt, Gail (Baukol) Marstad, Mary Jo (Reinertson) Lein, Linda (Hoversten) Singer, Linda (Twedt) Iverson. Back row - Gary Miller, Lenny Olson, Dean Wagner, Denny Ihle, Ilene Letness Lorenz, Paul Hyland, Ted Overlie, Dave Ersland, Ted Strand, Dick Norem.
Robert Lee Dowell Sr. & wife, Doris, with Denny & Kathy Jerome
Robert Lee Dowell Jr.
Sr.
Bolstorff & Beebe Gateway
On Saturday, October 5, 2024, Waldorf Athletics dedicated the Bolstorff Field and Beebe Track Gateway to Dave and Donna Bolstorff and Ray and Joan Beebe for their lifelong contributions to Waldorf and the Forest City community.
During Dave Bolstorff’s 42 years at Waldorf College, he served as college chaplain, associate professor of religion, student counselor, and head football coach. In 40 seasons, he compiled a record of 189-184-2 and was inducted in the Waldorf Athletics Hall of Fame in 2007. In 1995, our football and soccer field was dedicated and named after him.
Ray Beebe has served Waldorf and Forest City in many capacities over the years. Ray is the Chair of the Waldorf Lutheran College Foundation, member of the Waldorf University Board of Trustees, and Recipient of Honorary Doctorate Degree at Waldorf University in 2021. He and his wife, Joan, were instrumental in creating viable shared
services among Waldorf University, Forest City Community Schools, and the community itself. In 2010, the Beebe Track was announced, and construction began in 2014.
Denny Jerome, former Waldorf coach and Athletic Director, emphasized the importance of this tribute and has done extensive work both with donors as well as coordinating much of the production of the sign.
“The Gateway project has become an attractive addition to the Waldorf Athletic Complex,” says Jerome. “It is a deserving tribute for the Bolstorff and Beebe families.”
The gateway features a design that mirrors the athletic "W" sign on corner of John K. Hanson Dr., symbolizing community pride and unity. Local support through charitable gifts, along with contributions of time and materials from Waldorf facilities, has made this project possible.
The Gateway is unveiled as the Bolstorffs & Beebes look on
The plaques on the Gateway read as follows:
A. David Bolstorff and Donna served Waldorf from 1965-2006. Coach, Chaplain, Professor, Counselor, Mentor, Author, Hall of Famer.
Ray and Joan Beebe. Benefactors, Community Leaders, Friends of Forest City and Waldorf Students.
Thank you to the Bolstorffs and Beebes for your dedicated service to Waldorf and Forest City!
Gerald & Helen Barth Recieve Heart & Spirit Award
Gerald and Helen Barth epitomize having hearts of service. Since moving to Forest City in 1963 with their sons Jerry and Jeff, they have been part of the fabric of the community and the University. They were part of the campus expansion in the 1960s when so many buildings were built.
In 1965, Waldorf sold several homes to make way for the new Campus Center. Gerald & Helen bought their 2-story brick home at auction from Waldorf to make way for the Campus Center and relocated the home to where they currently reside in town. Moving a beautiful brick home is tricky business, and they were successful in keeping it whole.
In many ways, their lives have been lives of honoring people in their entirety. When enrollment grew and residence halls hadn’t yet caught up, they took seven Waldorf students into their home. Barth Services employed eleven students over several school years and summers. Helen was the Bookstore Manager from 1974-1994, when it was in the Campus Center near the mailboxes.
Jeff graduated in 1978 and was the first high school student to be dual enrolled at Waldorf, and had an incredible career in aerospace until recently moving back to Forest City. Jerry graduated in 1982 and has had a career in merchandising, likely influenced by many, many hours spent in the Waldorf Bookstore.
Helen befriended countless students who knew exactly where they could find her and she followed their lives and listened to their stories. Helen and Gerald are quite active in Forest City, and many people in town and from Waldorf seek their company either while in town, or as yet another reason to come to town.
Helen & Gerald Barth were presented the award by President Alsop
True "Warrior" Love
William "Bill" 1958 & Mary (Carlson) Johnson 1958
Waldorf University received two significant gifts from Bill and Mary Johnson totalling over $2.5 million. They made a $1.5 million gift from Bill and Mary Johnson to put our history to rest by resolving the last of our debt, and a second gift of $1 million to secure our future. To honor their generosity and to and celebrate a lifetime of love for Waldorf University, William (Bill) 1958 and Mary (Carlson) 1958 Johnson were honored with the 2024 C.S. Salveson Award. The a celebration will took place during Waldorf Homecoming festivities on Saturday, October 5, 2024, in the Waldorf Atrium.
“Waldorf holds a special place in the hearts of Bill and Mary,” said Ray Beebe, Waldorf Lutheran College Foundation board chairman. “It is where they met and started their lifetime together. Waldorf brought Bill and Mary together, and served as a place to strengthen their faith as a couple. To this day, if you ask Bill Johnson about why he loves Waldorf College, his answer is consistently "I love Waldorf because it brought me my beautiful wife, Mary!"
In addition to honoring Bill and Mary Johnson with the prestigious C.S. Salveson Award, Waldorf honorarily named the William (Bill) 1958 and Mary (Carlson) 1958 Johnson Ballroom at 1 p.m. the same day in a naming ceremony in the Salveson Lobby.
“We’re so grateful for the generous support of Bill and Mary Johnson,” said Dr. Robert Alsop, Waldorf University president. “Through their generosity, Waldorf University resolved the final indebtedness, making us 100% debt free. The second gift of $1 million proudly serves as a launching pad for philanthropy, and significantly bolsters the Waldorf Lutheran College Foundation holdings to ensure long-term vibrancy.”
“The Johnsons' gift will have a direct and lasting impact on the lives of our students at Waldorf,” said Severin Roberts, vice president for Engagement and Advancement and executive director of Waldorf Lutheran College Foundation. “We are so thankful for donors like Bill and Mary Johnson who want to impact students and make sure Waldorf
President Alsop presenting the C.S. Salveson Award to the Johnsons
"Watching student orientation in the Johnson Ballroom brought a flood of joy to my heart, just like the day we got to honor Bill and Mary and their family on campus"
-Severin Roberts, Vice President for Engagement & Advancment for Waldorf University, Executive Director of the Waldorf Lutheran College Foundation
thrives and grows in the decades to come. They have truly paved the way for other donors to deeply impact Waldorf with their own philanthropy.”
Dr. Alsop also shared, "By retiring debt, Waldorf University is in an enviable position in the higher education landscape. They're making such a huge philanthropic investment, and Waldorf is now able to focus on the future, invest in new programs, and invest in campus improvements. I am grateful for their generosity and for showing our entire community, that the future is bright for Waldorf and her students.”
The citation, which was read by President Alsop upon the presentation of the C.S. Salveson Award and Dedication of the Johnson Ballroom, goes as follows:
**On behalf of the Waldorf University Board of Trustees and the Waldorf Lutheran College Foundation Board of Directors, and in celebration of a lifetime of love for Waldorf University, William (Bill) 1958 and Mary (Carlson) 1958 Johnson have been awarded the 2024 C.S. Salveson
Award and are the fourth recipients. The C.S. Salveson Award celebrates exemplars of the warrior heart and spirit present in those who influence the very core of the institution and its future.
Waldorf holds a special place in the hearts of Bill and Mary. It is where they met and started a wonderful lifetime together.
Further, for serving on the Board of Regents, advising leadership volunteers, engaging with the Class of 1958, making it possible to create the North Quad with the grounds and gazebo, installing the Thor statue to watch over the Warriors, invoking pride with the Athletics Center, assuring students access to Waldorf through a perpetual and endowed scholarship, delivering grace for Waldorf University to enter a new golden age, and laying the ground work for Waldorf’s future—Waldorf University dedicated the William (Bill) 1958 and Mary (Carlson) 1958 Johnson Ballroom in historic C.S. Salveson Hall.**
The Beebes and Johnsons listening to President Alsop at the Johnson Ballroom Dedication
A LETTER FROM THE FOUNDATION CHAIR
I want to begin this letter by expressing Joan’s and my gratitude for the new Bolstorff/Beebe Gateway which was dedicated during Waldorf’s Homecoming Weekend on October 5, 2024. I will not go into a lot of detail as there is further coverage of the Gateway in another article in this issue. The Gateway is particularly meaningful to us because the project was funded by local support through charitable gifts along with contributions of time and materials from Waldorf University. We do want to particularly thank Denny Jerome, former Waldorf coach and athletic director, who did extensive work both with donors as well as coordinating much of the production of the Gateway sign. Denny stated that the Gateway was given to honor our life long commitments to Waldorf and the Forest City community. I have often said that as a society our most valuable asset is our young people. Joan’s and my passion has been to “make a difference” in the lives of young people. We have had the opportunity and ability to do so in numerous ways and places. We have truly been blessed because these young people have definitely made a very positive difference in our lives as well.
There is also extensive coverage in this issue about the generous gift which Mary and Bill Johnson made to Waldorf. It has been my privilege to know and work with Mary and Bill for nearly 10 years. They are wonderful people whose love and devotion to Waldorf knows no boundaries.
It recently occurred to me that in early 2025 I will have served as Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Waldorf Lutheran College Foundation for 15 years. As I assumed that role in 2010, Waldorf College was owned by Columbia Southern University, Joe Manjone was President of Waldorf and the Waldorf Lutheran College Foundation was only a few years old and had minimal assets. Little could I have imagined then that 15 years later the Waldorf Lutheran College Foundation would own Waldorf University and as I have often said, we would then be in control of our own destiny and we could be confident that Waldorf University would stay in Forest City and “change lives” for generations to come. I am so glad that I could be a participant in this amazing transformation.
But not everything has changed. I went back and read my letter in the Fall 2011 issue of The Waldorf Magazine. I stated in that letter that the Waldorf Foundation existed for the purpose of helping Waldorf College with its focus being to provide scholarships to Waldorf students, to maintain a strong campus ministry progam and to foster a stronger relationship with alumni and the Forest City community.
While Waldorf is a financial bargain compared to many of its peer schools, it is still expensive for most families particularly at this time when middle class families are often struggling to make ends meet. Thus, scholarships become all the more important to attract and retain students. We want a Waldorf
education to be within the reach of any young man or woman. I am pleased to report that we were able to award 176 scholarships to 290 students in the past fiscal year. Your generosity and the generosity of many other alumni and friends made this possible.
A strong campus ministry program is an integral part of the mission and tradition of Waldorf. When Columbia Southern University took over ownership of Waldorf College in 2010, it was not its intent to sponsor or fund a campus ministry program. Through a collaborative effort among the Waldorf Foundation, Waldorf’s Office of Student Life and Immanuel Lutheran Church, a campus ministry program was developed. I remember how proud we all were when Steve Smith, Waldorf’s Religion and Philosophy Department Chair/ Campus Ministry Coordinator, stated a number of years ago at a meeting of the Waldorf Foundation Board of Directors that the campus ministry program at Waldorf was the strongest he had ever seen it.
You may already know that in January the Rev. Jenniffer Tillman began employment at Waldorf as Campus Chaplain. Waldorf will be paying 2/3 of Rev. Tillman’s compensation and Immanuel Lutheran Church will be paying the other 1/3. She has assumed responsibility for the campus ministry program at Waldorf and is working with the youth at Immanuel Lutheran Church. She brought a wealth of experience to this new position. She received a Master of Divinity in Theology from Pacific
Lutheran Theological Seminary in Berkeley California, served as a solo pastor at Lutheran churches in Gloucester, Georgia and Troy, New York and most recently served as an interim pastor at Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church in Birmingham, Alabama. She has worked with the homeless in inter-city Atlanta and New York, was a prison chaplain at San Quentin Penitentiary and has been a missionary in Madagascar. Imagine the interesting discussions she will be having with our students!
I also remember in 2010 CSU did not intend to support an alumni publication or magazine. The Waldorf Foundation was quite adamant that a magazine was essential if the college was to have any hope of maintaining its alumni base. And here we are 15 years later and I have written 30 letters for our biannual Waldorf Magazine. And, indeed the Waldorf Magazine has been the glue that held our alumni together. Theodore Schoneman, the current editor does an excellent job as have his predecessors who included Nancy Olson, Rita Gilbertson, Jaclyn Sifert, and Hannah Earll.
So, there is a little trip down memory lane! As I close, I urge you to provide financial support so that we can continue to provide that “Waldorf experience” to more and more young people. Always remember that an essential part of any private school’s budget is financial support of alumni and friends. Please help us move the dream forward.
Sincerely,
Raymond M. Beebe
Chair, Waldorf Lutheran College Foundation
Member, Waldorf University Board of Trustees
Retired Vice President, General Counsel Secretary Winnebago Industries, Inc. 1974–2012
Recipient of Honorary Doctorate Degree, Waldorf University (2021)
The Waldorf Lutheran College Foundation affirms the mission of Waldorf University to be an engaging community of learning and faith where relationships are formed and opportunities for learning and service abound.
The Foundation is committed to providing financial resources to honor the past ideas of the University and to enrich learning and spiritual opportunities for future generations of Waldorf University students, empowering them to impact the world through lives of service. The Foundation is funded by generous gifts from alumni and friends and supports student scholarships, campus ministry and alumni relations.
Foundation Chair, Ray Beebe, in Salveson Hall
Setting Sail from Norway
On July 4, 1825, a group of 52 Norwegians set sail on the ship "Restauration" to make the first organized migration from Norway to North America. The ship, often referred too as a "sloop", made quite the journey, and the passengers are often called "sloopers" to match! Since that first voyage, about 900,000 people have followed, leaving their homes in search of opportunities and a better life. While many returned to Norway, most stayed and built a new home in the New World. Today nearly five million people in North America claim Norwegian ancestry.
"Crossings" commemorates 200 years of organized Norwegian migration to North America. It’s a year to celebrate the strong ties between Norway, the United States, and Canada. It’s an opportunity to remember what it means to take great risks and trade one home for another. It’s a chance to better understand the movement of peoples that continues worldwide today.
Jan Rosdail 1972 has relatives who were on the original Restauration ship, the first organized migration vessel to America two hundred years ago. Last summer, Jan is one of many who have traveled to Norway to see the recreated Restauration and feel what it was like to walk the deck, all of which is shared by her on the next page.
“Sloopers” around the world will be celebrating this milestone anniversary of the Norwegian migration to the United States. The ship will depart Oslo on July 4, 2025, and follow as much of the original route by the trade winds down, across, and up the U.S. east coast to the Statue of Liberty and the shipyard museum in lower Manhattan on October 9th.
We hope to have a meet up event and reception in New York City at that time, inviting local alumni and friends, and anyone around the country wanting to attend. If the thought of attending the departure in Norway is on your travel list this year, we would like to hear about it. Please do let us know.
For more information about "Crossings", visit their website: https://crossings.norwegianamerican.com/
The recreated "Restauration" ship
2024 "Over the ocean and through the fjords, to our 3rd Great Grandparents' house we go ... "
In August 2024, four Rosdail siblings, plus three spouses traveled to our ancestral home in Tysvcer, Norway to retrace a piece of our family's immigration story. We share this story as a reminder that each one of us is part of an immigrant story. Here is a portion of ours.
Two hundred years ago, Daniel and Britha Rossadal {Rosdail) were preparing to take their family of five children (ages 18, 15, 12, 4, and 4 mos.) and leave their farm, the "Valley of Horses," forever. They had to sell their farm and possessions, taking only what they needed for their family - food, some clothing and few personal items. They left on foot, over a ridge, joined a neighboring family, and walked almost 3 miles to a fjord to take a ferry to Stavanger.
They were joined by neighbors and others from the Stavanger region to set out on a voyage to an unknown country. In search of freedom from the state church, many of the emigrants were Quaker and Haugean sympathizers. The Rossadals helped purchase a 54' "sloop" (single mast boat) named "Restauration," a fishing vessel remodeled for passengers. They were joined by 8 other heads of families, their 21 children and 14 others, for a total of 52 passengers setting sail on July 4, 1825. They followed the tradewinds south and west for 97 days until Oct. 9, when they reached New York City harbor with 53 passengers. Not one passenger died and a baby had been born to the captain and his wife in September. This group of travelers and their descendants became known as "Sloopers".
Upon their safe arrival, however, the immigrants were taken into custody and Captain Larson was arrested by the NY authorities for having an overloaded boat carrying over three times as many passengers as the U.S. law allowed. (May I remind you that all survived the dangerous journey!) These newcomers didn't understand the language or customs, however, thanks to the Quakers who came to their aid, President John Quincy Adams pardoned the Sloopers. After "Restauration" and its cargo sold, the fines and fees were paid. Daniel's share was $27 to start a new life with his family of seven. Cleng Peerson, a Norwegian scout who had organized this group in Norway, was waiting for them with land along Lake Ontario in upstate NY. They traveled the newly opened Erie Canal and began building a log shelter for the winter which was fast approaching. The Sloopers spent that first winter crowded into two small log cabins- 25 occupants each! Every American with the name Rosdail descended from Daniel and Britha.
This fledgling group of emigrants marked the beginning of the mass emigration from Norway to America. From 18251925, one third of Norway's population traveled to North America for a new life. Without the help of the Quakers and other caring people along the way, who knows how this story and our very existence might have played out?
L-R: Rosdail siblings Jon, Gail, Joy & Jan on the recreated "Restauration"
Jan & husband Roger on the ship
My Waldorf Journey - Diana Humble 2020
Contrary to the person I am today, I was very shy and reserved growing up. When I was younger, I was overly concerned with how people perceived me, which made it difficult for me to be my most authentic self. Writing was my chief outlet for self-expression because I was able to formulate my thoughts with clarity and honesty without the pressure of responding to a person in the moment. I often spent my free time journaling, writing one-act plays, and crafting short stories. My love of writing was the main reason I was interested in Waldorf University. Waldorf had a thriving creative writing program, and the small class sizes meant that I would get personal, in-depth feedback from faculty. When I toured the campus, I was amazed by how much Forest City reminded me of my 6,000-person hometown in Minnesota. It was a place that I could see becoming home.
When I submitted my application to study at Waldorf, I also applied for the Chantell Cooley Leadership Scholarship for Women (now part of the Pillars program). It felt like a longshot to be selected, but a full tuition scholarship would change my life. My parents couldn’t stress enough how invaluable it would be to graduate debt-free. It felt like the stars were aligning when I earned a scholarship. I was honored that the university saw something special in me—something worth investing in. It was the final factor that solidified my decision to become a Waldorf Warrior.
My parents encouraged me to pursue my writing in college, but they recommended that I adopt a second major in case things didn’t go exactly as I planned. I agreed, but was unsure of what would be a good complement to my skill set. After visiting campus, I began to consider communications as a second major. Just as with writing, the communications field is primarily concerned with message transmission— what makes a message appealing, successful, and memorable. I was intimidated by all the unfamiliar technology and software that I would have to learn as a communications major, but all of the professors were warm and personable; it put my mind at ease to know that they wanted to see me succeed. My Waldorf journey officially started in the fall of 2016 when I moved to Forest City to pursue dual Bachelor’s degrees in creative writing and communications with an English minor while in the honors college.
I graduated from Waldorf University in the spring of 2020, during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic. I was hoping to get my first full-time job at Mayo Clinic—where I interned for two years—but ended up pivoting to graduate school due to the limited opportunities for gainful employment at the time. I applied to the University of South Dakota’s MA program in communication studies, and graduated with my degree in the spring of 2022.
Diana Humble alongside the New York City skyline
To defray the cost of tuition, I started teaching communication courses at the University of South Dakota. As a 22-yearold teaching collegiate classes for the first time, I felt way out of my depth. I was only a few months removed from living in the dorms and eating meals in the dining hall; who was I to be educating these young adults? It was difficult to balance being both a student and professor at a time when I was still trying to figure out who I was as a person. I drew a lot of inspiration from the communication, creative writing, English, and honors college professors that I was fortunate enough to study under during my time at Waldorf. They invested in me as both a student and a person. They were people that I looked up to and admired. Every professor that I met at Waldorf was truly passionate about teaching students, and it set my Waldorf experience apart from the education I would’ve received at another institution.
Teaching students with the care and intention that was modeled to me at Waldorf proved to be very rewarding. It’s a privilege to use my experiences and expertise to guide young people trying to find their way in the world. I came to enjoy teaching during my Master’s program, and the desire to continue doing so at the collegiate level was the driving force behind my decision to pursue a doctorate. I now teach courses at the University of Memphis, where I’m earning my doctorate in communication and researching issues of gender and violence through the lenses of health and interpersonal communication, media theory, public health, and psychology. As a side benefit, teaching has substantially grown my confidence in front of a crowd and sharpened my interpersonal abilities, which have come in handy when presenting my research at conferences.
Even though I live 11 hours away from Forest City, I make it a priority to stay connected to Waldorf. It’s a privilege to be able to give back to the place that gave me so much. As an undergrad, I hung up posters around campus for visiting authors, so it was a rewarding, full-circle moment to see my face on one of those posters when I was invited back to Waldorf for a reading and book signing to promote my first poetry collection. I was touched by the words of many individuals during the four years I was involved in the Pillars program, so it was an honor to return to the group as a guest speaker this past fall. In spring 2024, I joined the Waldorf University alumni board with the hope of mentoring students in the same position I was once in.
My time at Waldorf laid the foundation for all of my future endeavors as a student and educator. It’s where I began to figure out who Diana is past the fear of being judged by others. I’m not sure where life will take me after I graduate with my doctorate, but I know that Waldorf will always be part of my story.
waldorf.edu
Diana and a colleague after winning teaching awards
Diana in her Waldorf University graduation regalia
Join Waldorf University Choir at Carnegie Hall!
Waldorf Music is excited to announce Dr. Emilie Bertram, Director of Choral Activities and Music Department Chair, has accepted an invitation to conduct Mozart’s Mass in C, K. 317, the “Coronation Mass,” with the New England Symphonic Ensemble and distinguished guest soloists as part of MidAmerica Production’s 43rd anniversary season. The performance will take place March 14, 2026, on the illustrious Perelman Stage of Carnegie Hall’s historic Stern Auditorium.
Dr. Bertram shared, “I am thrilled to be invited to conduct at this iconic venue. It is an honor to share this experience with current and alumni members of the Waldorf University Choir, and many others who have played a role in my journey as a conductor-educator.” The Waldorf Choir last visited New York in 2003 with a performance at Lincoln Center, led by Dr. Bradley Creswell.
Senior music education and vocal performance major, Ethan Hexamer, shared, “I’ve experienced a plethora of experiential and learning opportunities through the Waldorf University Music Program. Fine arts connects students and in meaningful and impactful ways. I love that we have the opportunity to travel. Sharing our musicianship provided me positive learning and networking opportunities. I am excited for this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to perform at Carnegie Hall with an intergenerationally connected chorus. I love this pure expression of the Waldorf spirit!”
The Waldorf Choir is the second oldest acapella choir in the nation, serving musicians and the community since 1916. Dr. Bertram has actively worked to re-institute touring at Waldorf University since accepting the position in 2020. In the past 5 years the ensemble has toured throughout southern Minnesota, Colorado, Missouri, and across Iowa, tapping into Dr. Bertram’s experience leading international and domestic choir tours.
Music senior, Dana Pioske shared, “Over my last four years at Waldorf, the choir has become my second family! The opportunities we’ve been given as a group are the highlights of my college career. Touring with the choir is an incredible blessing. I believe it speaks to just how much dedication and work we all put into the group.”
Dr. Bertram commented, “While performing on tour, students experience musical and personal epiphanies. They mature and develop in response to audiences, and the travel itself, which is invaluable to them and extremely joyful to witness.”
Waldorf Choir Alumni can join this historic performance. Alumni can reconnect, reminisce, and create new memories while celebrating the lineage and future of the Waldorf Choir.
Please share your questions and experiences with the choir by email at music@waldorf.edu. To support the choir and this event, please contact Ms. Severin Roberts, Vice President for Engagement and Advancement at foundation@waldorf. edu and 641.585.8144.
Together, we will create a performance that honors the rich tradition of the Waldorf University Choir and showcases the incredible talent of all of its members – past, present, and future.
Join us at Carnegie Hall March 11-15, 2026! The New York City five day residency experience has options for program provided housing, as well as a concert-only option for those who have other housing arrangements. Experiences in the city, housing, some meals, and special access are all part of this alumni and student program with our partners at MidAmerica. Early registration ends April 1, with a registration deadline of July 1, 2025, Adam Stich is our representative and can answer questions by email at astich@ midamerica-music.com, or by telephone at 803.979.2805 For further information, please visit www.midamerica-music.com.
We encourage you to register with MidAmerica as soon as possible to take advantage of spending a week with Waldorf that is exciting and cost effective in New York City.
Membership in the Waldorf Choir lasts a lifetime!
“Then [Jesus] said to his disciples, “The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few; therefore ask the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest.” --Matthew 9:37 (NRSV)
Campus Ministry Update - A New Campus Chaplain!
I have good news (gospel) for you. Waldorf University and Immanuel Lutheran Church succesfully worked together to call a pastor to serve as a chaplain for the university and as a youth pastor for Immanuel Lutheran Church! Throughout Waldorf’s history there has been a strong connection and good cooperation between Immanuel Lutheran and Waldorf. We are looking to continue this partnership in the future by sharing a pastor. The position will be split with two-thirds time devoted to the university’s campus ministry and onethird time devoted to youth ministry at the church. We are happy to share that Rev. Jeniffer Tillman will serve in this position, and her bio is on the next page!
In the meantime, I have run campus ministry through last fall. Recently I sent out an email asking for volunteers to lead Wednesday Morning Rest and Renewal (chapel). To this point, we have continued to have Sunday night Like Fire, Tuesday night The Bridge Ministry, and Thursday night Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament. Forest Lutheran Church (ELS) in Forest City has begun offering a Bible study for our students as well.
Campus ministry may look a lot different now than it did when many of you were students at Waldorf, just as I am guessing many of your churches look quite different than when you were young. When many of you were young, you may have belonged to vibrant churches with lots of younger families and youth. Many churches today have few young families and very few youth. I do lots of supply preaching on Sunday mornings. I usually am prepared to do a children’s sermon, but often there are no children to hear a children’s sermon. Now, we all know that young families might not be as likely to be in church as often in the summer when there is no Sunday school. This is nothing new, but many rural churches are struggling to even have a Sunday school. Fewer and fewer youth are being raised in the church.
As a result, fewer and fewer students coming to Waldorf have any real experience with church and/or communities of faith. That means far fewer students are involved with or want to be involved with campus ministry. Some students have had bad experiences with religion. Others may have rather skewed views of religion. Many in the younger
generation are highly suspicious of religion seeing it as judgmental and divisive. This state of affairs is sad, but it is true. Over the years I have experienced some students who have been hostile about the requirement to take religion classes at Waldorf. Students are fearful that we are going to be “shoving religion down their throats.” Students have expressed this concern to me in those very words over the years. Once in class, that fear is usually relieved rather quickly. In the classroom our agenda is not to convert anyone. Our agenda is the academic study of religion as a facet of human life. We do critically study religion as it helps all of us to reflect upon ourselves, on life, meaning, and the world we are a part. of I do think the majority of students do recognize that as valuable and come to appreciate the religion classes.
What I want us all to be aware of is that this is the world campus pastors/chaplains like Rev. Tillman are stepping into. The work of a campus pastor is not easy these days. And one thing we stress to our chaplains is that they are here to serve the whole student body, not just Lutherans, and not just Christians. The campus chaplain is to nurture the spirituality of all of our students, whatever that spirituality may be. This gets back to the mission of Lutheran Higher Education in general. As a university, we are an arm of the church charged with educating people for the good of the world. Our calling in the university is education, not evangelism. Evangelism is the work of the church. Education is the work of the college. This was driven by Luther himself who advocated for public education, because he believed strongly that the world was better off with educated people, be they Christian or not. Our mission is to educate everyone we can and these days that includes a great diversity of students and that diversity includes a variety of religious backgrounds, and many students with no religious backgrounds.
The current landscape of the campus ministry is complex one. It makes it clear that Waldorf needs someone like Rev. Tillman who is dedicated just to this work, and she is going to need our prayers and support. We are confident that she is going to do a great job!
Please join us praying for our new campus chaplain, Rev. Jeniffer Tillman, as she takes on this new endeavor!
Rev. Steve Smith Religion & Philosophy Faculty Chair Campus Ministry Coordinator
Meet Rev. Jeniffer Tillman!
Our New Campus Chaplain
Hello, I am The Reverend Jeniffer Tillman. I am a Theologian, a Poet, a Mission Developer, and an Aunt. I studied Psychology, Theater, and Botany at the University of Georgia, and I believe that the Botanical Garden is to be experienced in all seasons.
I received my Master of Divinity at Pacific Lutheran Theological Seminary in Berkeley, California, where I became a Lutheran Maggid under the tutelage of Rabbi Daniel Lev. I am currently working towards my Doctorate in Ministry with United Lutheran Seminary.
I love traveling to new and familiar places, playing the ukulele, visiting lighthouses, shopping at antique stores, and I haven’t met a bookstore that I didn’t like. My favorite holidays are Halloween, Christmas, and Easter in that order. I am happiest when enjoying sunny days at the Beach, any day with a friend at museums, and misty Autumn mornings at home.
Please stay connected! A great way to engage with us is through "alumni purple pride" on social media. Be on the lookout for posts like the image on the left to participate!
Once a Warrior, Always a Warrior!
Alumni Spotlight - Stanislaw Zawieja 2020
Stanislaw Zawieja, 2020, is an offshore wind generator data analyst for Equinor in Oslo and also an offensive lineman for the Oslo Vikings football team. Last year, they were Norwegian National Champions in American football! “Developing the mental toughness and composure to rally from a 30-14 deficit in the 3rd quarter to emerge victorious in this physical game is a life skill I appreciate refining.” Stan, raised in Poznan, Poland, started playing American football at age 14, then spent his senior year at the International School of Broward, Florida.
Recruited by Waldorf and playing for Coach Littrell, Stan enjoyed the well-rounded Midwestern experience of a small school, athletics and academic blend that was Waldorf. Studies were around math, economics, and financial management. After Waldorf, he challenged himself even further by earning a Master of Science degree in Business and Analytics at the Norwegian School of Economics in Bergen. Wanting to stay in Norway, he took a job in Oslo working for Equinor, Norway’s government oil and gas company, with Stan specializing in renewable energy operations. His home pride shows in the research to design a massive offshore wind generator farm that will eventually power over two million households in Poland.
CLASS UPDATES: 1960’S
Philip Nesse 1968 resides in Ferndale, WA. Philip just retired after 9 years of teaching high school science in various communities in Alaska. His email is pnesse@gmail.com
Steve Sondall 1969 resides in Norwalk, IA. His email is sncsondall70@gmail.com
CLASS UPDATES: 1970’S
David Lynn 1970 resides in Richfield, MN. His email is dtlMc50Ind@comcast.net
CLASS UPDATES: 1980’S
Thomas Holmes 1982 resides in Champlin, MN. His email is tdholmes051@gmail.com
Per Sandum 1989 is an Uber Driver for Uber and resides in Minneapolis. His email is psandum@gmail.com
CLASS UPDATES: 1990’S
Lance Skov 1991 resides in Albert Lea, MN. His email is leskov29@mac.com
Shaun McFarland 1991 and his husband, William, reside in Yuma, Arizona where they own and operate The Amistad Clinic, Internal Medicine. Shaun's passion for photography launched at Waldorf and he is now a fine art travel photographer and has been featured in recent shows and exhibitions in Yuma, Phoenix and Gilbert, Arizona. Visit https:// shaunmcfarland.photography/ or on Instagram@shaunmcfarland.photography
Dr. Richard Stapleton 1995 resides in North Liberty, IA. Dr. Rich Stapleton, LMHC (1995) was elected Chair of the National Board of Certified Counselors starting July 1, 2024 - June 2025.
CLASS UPDATES: 2010’s
Steve Cross 2012 and wife, Tammie, reside in Christiana, TN. Steve is a Consulting Program Manager for the University of Tennessee. His email is stevenecross64@gmail.com
Mark Weil 2012 was honored with the 2024 U.S. Navy Fire & Emergency Services Hall of Fame award in early May. Mark is the
#051 inductee. As a (Retired) Assistant Chief, U.S. Navy Fire & Emergency Services, he was awarded for his work with the U.S. Navy Fire & Emergency Services Fire Prevention Working Group and served as the inaugural chair of this group. And was able to institute with the group the NFPA 1 Fire Code with Navy amendments. In addition, Mark has made a positive impactful difference to fellow firefighters and colleagues for over 30 years of his fire service career.
Justin Champion 2016 and his wife, Elinor, reside in Albuquerque, NM. Justin is a Fire Captain for the Acoma Fire Department. His email is justinchampion15@gmail.com
Anthony Hinkel 2019 wife, Danielle, reside in Lucedale, MS. Anthony is a Lead Continuous Improvement Analyst, PMP, LSSBB for Chevron. His email is anthony. hinkel@gmail.com
CLASS UPDATES: 2020’s
Kyle Caldwell 2020 resides in Henderson, NC. His email is Kcaldw9133@gmail.com
IN MEMORIAM: 1940’s
Marie Salven Kellenberger 1942 passed away on April 26, 2024
Gladys Lee passed away on February 19, 2024
Dr. Boyd Holtan 1948 passed away on December 12, 2023
Betty Gollnik 1949 passed away on May 26, 2024
IN MEMORIAM: 1950’s
Elton Erdahl 1950 passed away on November 15, 2023
M. Ardelle (Sheldahl) Gifford 1950 passed away on April 1, 2024
Rev. Marcus Mork 1951 passed away on March 20, 2023
Harley Limberg 1951 passed away on March 5, 2024
ElRoy C Nerness 1952 passed away on June 16, 2008
Shirley (Slattum) Chodur 1952 passed away on August 31, 2024
Leroy Beenken 1954 passed away on March 4, 2024
June (Tawzer) Nerness 1955 passed away on October 10, 2023
Lyle Doege 1955 passed away on August 31, 2024
Darlene Holmes 1956 passed away on September 21, 2024
Arlene (Larson) Ingo 1958 passed away on August 17, 2024
IN MEMORIAM: 1960's
Lois (Eyrich) Torvik 1960 passed away on February 25, 2024
Judy Ann Johnson passed away on September 5, 2024
Trywell Alex Nyirongo 1964 passed away on July 23, 2021
Stephen L. Hammer 1965 passed away on September 14, 2020
Ralph Hitchcock 1966 passed away on May 1, 2024
Koral S Rosendahl 1969 passed away on December 20, 2023
IN MEMORIAM: 1970’s
Thomas Juhl 1972 passed away on September 7, 2024
IN MEMORIAM: 1980’s
David L Clark 1980 passed away on November 28, 2023
Paula (Schmidt) Suter 1982 passed away on June 9, 2024
Daniel W Nerness 1988 passed away on May 25, 2018
Former Faculty/Staff:
Eleanor Heimark Johnson, former teacher of Education Methods, Psychology, and Career Planning, passed away on September 11, 2024
Did we miss anyone? Please email alumni@waldorf.edu to let us know so we can mention them in the next edition of the magazine!
