a message from president rob oliver
More than 154 years ago, Augustana’s roots were formed as a college of the Lutheran church. Today, that foundation remains strong and continues to guide us in our daily work to inspire students to pursue their talents and passions and to engage faith – to encounter God and explore His creation.
Here, we believe that because we are freed by God’s loving grace, we can explore life’s questions and seek the answers with a fearless pursuit of understanding, growth, and excellence. At Augustana, we believe that nothing in this world is exempt from study; everything is part of God’s good creation and is worthy of investigation. Faith is what inspires our study, frees us to find solutions and, sometimes, to live with unanswerable questions.
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Simply put, at Augustana, we believe we are called to be explorers – in life, in faith and in service to others.
The individuals you’ll meet in this issue are living examples of the power of exploration – they are Augustana alumni who were indeed brave enough to explore life’s questions, seek the answers and push through challenges. They each remain, today, relentless in their pursuits to make a difference.
Among others, you’ll meet Dr. Daryl Ferguson, class of 1960, who has spent his life seeking truth and justice and is today, exploring the untold story of America’s first 100 years.
We’ll introduce you to the Rev. Dr. Robin Steinke, class of 1980, the recently named president of Luther Seminary in St. Paul, Minnesota, who is working hard to find new and innovative ways to help future and existing pastors proclaim the Gospel in a technological world.
You’ll also meet Dr. Joe von Fischer ’92, who’s using science to drive environmental change, and Kate (Knudson) Wolters ’02, who had the courage to pursue a career in Washington, D.C., after being inspired by our own Dr. Peter Schotten, professor of Government and International Affairs/Political Science.
On campus, we are also exploring – exploring ways in which we can provide even better experiences for our students and be of better service to the region we call home. Soon we will formally introduce our new strategic plan, Horizons 2019, a collection of robust goals and objectives designed to lead Augustana through the next five years and beyond.
We’re looking forward to sharing details of the plan with you in the coming months, and working with you as we explore ways to create an Augustana like never before.
Enjoy this issue and best wishes for a blessed Christmas and Happy New Year!
Yours, for Augustana,
Rob Oliver
President