Tim Peter to resign

Professor of Music Timothy Peter (‘86) announced Monday that he will resign at the end of the spring 2012 semester. He will become Director of Choral Activities and Professor of Music at Stetson University in DeLand, Fl.

In addition to teaching music courses, Peter directs Collegiate Chorale and Norsemen and has been a member of the Luther faculty for 21 years.

“It’s with tremendous gratitude from my years at Luther, both for the colleagues, administrators and most importantly the students that I reflect on my leaving,” Peter said. “In that same light, I’m also extremely excited that I’ll be moving on and leading a great program where I’m hoping that I can have an impact. The way in which I hope I can impact is just to inspire students to be the best musicians they can and the best citizens they can. That’s what excites me.”

Peter voiced his hopes for his final semester at Luther.

“I hope that I continue to connect with students and that I share in the vision and mission of making beautiful artistry that we’ve been able to do so far and that my departure does not overshadow the experience that these students will have, especially the seniors,” Peter said.

“The focus in the spring should really be on the students instead of me.”

Many students feel that Peter has held a vital role at Luther and will be sad to see him leave.

“He’s been a figure that we’ve always associated with Luther,” music major and Collegiate Chorale member Carl Sorenson (‘13) said. “When people think of Luther music, they think Tim Peter.”

One thing students say they will especially miss is Peter’s optimism.

“I think that his level of energy and enthusiasm spread through campus,” Norsemen member Cole Puffer (‘15) said. “It is impossible to come out of a Norsemen practice without a smile on your face because of Tim Peter. The campus will miss Tim Peter’s positive influence on everyone that walks in Jenson-Noble Hall of Music.”

Professor of Music Sandra Peter commented on her husband’s announcement.

“I am thrilled for Tim and the opportunity he has been given to serve as Director of Choral Activities at Stetson University. We are both very grateful for the love and support people have expressed, as they react to this news. While Tim prepares for a big transition, I am honored to continue serving Luther College and as a family, our homebase is Decorah at this time.”