Established on 10.28.2006 by Paul and Dr. Louise Evenson †
Loving God by loving our neighbors.
Paul and Louise Evenson are spending their retirement in Thousand Oaks, CA, and they are happy to share their perspective on their financial support for the various services and ministries they love.
When the Evensons think about the impact their scholarship at Concordia College will make one day, Louise muses, “I would say to the recipients of our scholarship: We want to encourage you to live Concordia’s mission throughout your life.”
Leaving an estate gift to support students at Concordia College is a natural extension of the couple’s faith and worldview. Paul, who trained as a Lutheran pastor, says, “The core of the Christian message is summarized in how we treat our neighbors… as an expression of our love of God. For me, Concordia is one of the organizations that personifies that.”
Louise adds, “Over the years, we have seen how Concordia College is authentic and accountable in how it lives its mission. That encourages us to continue our support.”
Both Paul and Louise made philanthropy a part of their careers as well. For 30 years, Paul supported fundraising and planned giving at Lutheran seminaries, colleges, and universities, helping donors to align their giving with their core values and educating them on the tax benefits of their gifts.
Louise, after earning a Ph.D. and teaching at universities, spent 20 years in financial services. After retiring from the corporate world, she worked as a fundraiser for a Lutheran seminary.
To those considering whether they should leave a gift in their will to Concordia, they share their own philosophy: “If you have supported Concordia for years and years with your cash gifts, your college has become reliant on your support. A gift in your will or planned gift will mean that the cash flow continues when you’re no longer able to write your check or give your stock.”
Thanks be to God for Concordia College. Soli Deo Gloria!
The Paul and Louise Evenson Endowed Scholarship is awarded by the Office of Financial Aid to one or more junior or senior Concordia College students who are members of The Concordia Choir. Selection is further based on scholastic achievement.