Luther raises millions for 150th

In preparation for the 150th anniversary of its founding, Luther seeks to raise $50 million. Running from January 2008–December 2012, the Sesquicentennial Funding Initiative looks to enhance the opportunities offered at Luther College.

The Sesquicentennial Funding Initiative operates on two fronts: a national campaign and a campus campaign. According to Vice President for Development Keith Christensen, the campus campaign provides an opportunity for those already deeply tied to Luther to contribute.

“There are a lot of people that are focused and passionate about students through teaching and whatever they are involved in on campus,” Christensen said. “[Donating to] the fund is a way to show that people who are already invested and giving here care enough to give even more to the school.”

The school’s efforts appear effective, as 76 percent of on-campus employees have given to the Initiative.

Working closely with Christensen on the Funding Initiative is Ann Sponberg Peterson, director of development and a co-director of the sesquicentennial campaign.

“We have great people who believe in our students, believe in the mission and are very hard working,” Sponberg Peterson said. “When we are [fundraising] abroad and people ask how the campus campaign is going, it is important for us to say that it is strong and going well.”

The national campaign is composed of 26 fundraising events that are being held nationwide in key places with deep demographic support. Such areas were selected based upon strong alumni bases or parental support for current Luther students.

Academic Dean William Craft, and President Torgerson, have spoken at each event to promote further support of Luther.

“I have really enjoyed being on the road with President Torgerson and VP Christensen, presenting the fund to Luther graduates and other friends of the college,” Craft said.

Mitch Zoelzer (‘10), has attended some of these events as a student representative.

“Being a part of these funding events has helped me feel connected to the future of this institution,” Zoelzer said. “It is a way for me to say thank you to everything that Luther has given me and to provide resources that will allow numerous other students in the future to want do the same.”

At the launch of the campus campaign March 30, $27.7 million had already been raised by the national events. These early donations have given the Funding Initiatives momentum before the official public launch, which will take place during Homecoming week in the fall of 2010.