The LECNA Fellows 21-22 cohort is the largest in our history—24 Fellows.  The Fellows come from Lutheran universities, social service agencies, and a seminary.  Ten are from ELCA colleges and universities, 8 from LC-MS universities, 2 from the Mission Investment Fund, 1 from LSS of Minnesota, 1 from an LC-MS seminary, 1 from an independent Lutheran university and 1 from a Lutheran campus ministry.    Congratulations on your acceptance to the program and all the best as you learn to lead “from the inside out”!

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Dr. William Cario, a Thrivent Fellow in the 2005 cohort, has been appointed interim president of Concordia University Wisconsin.  Richard Laabs, chair of the Board of Regents, stated that “Dr. Cario, along with our deeply experienced administration, talented faculty, and dedicated staff, will provide consistent, skillful leadership during this transition.”   Congratulations Dr. Cario!!!

Thank you to the 2015-2016 LECNA Fellows cohort!!!  Led by Rev. Ann Rosendale and Dr. Jim Burkee, the cohort raised over $4,000 for tuition scholarships for the 2021-2022 cohort.  This is a first for the program and their support has made it possible for us to have our largest cohort—24 Fellows!!  We thank Ann and Jim along with the rest of the cohort for paying it forward!!!

Dr. Bernard Bull, currently president of Goddard College, has been elected president of Concordia University.  Stuart Bartuff, chair of the Board of Regents, stated that  “Dr. Bull is known nationally for his innovative insights regarding Christian education at all levels. Concordia University will be well-served given Dr. Bull’s leadership attributes and experience.”  Dr. Bull has annually led a seminar for the Fellows Program on innovation in higher education and is an alum of the 2011 Thrivent Fellows cohort.

Valparaiso University has named Eric W. Johnson ’87, Ph.D., as the next provost and executive vice president for academic affairs. Johnson has served in the position in an interim capacity since February 2021. “Eric Johnson has faithfully served Valparaiso University for more than two decades and is well equipped to help guide Valpo’s future,” said José D. Padilla, J.D., University president.  Dr. Johnson is a Thrivent Fellow alum from the 2012 cohort and previously was the Dean of the College of Engineering at Valpo