Established on 01.01.1983 by Gladys Hovland
Julius M. Hovland was the son of Norwegian immigrants who were grounded in the Lutheran faith. He attended Concordia College and Luther Seminary. He served parishes in Montana, Minnesota and Wisconsin. Gladys M. Hovland's grandparents were immigrants from Norway who settled in the Starbuck, MN, area before Fargo-Moorhead and Fergus Falls, MN, existed. They were instrumental in building a number of churches in the area. Her father, J. Walter Johnshoy, studied at Luther Seminary, became a pastor, and also received a doctorate degree. He was the first full-time pastor of Olivet Lutheran Church, Fargo, ND, in addition to serving parishes in California, Minnesota and Wisconsin. He was a professor at Concordia for many years. His wife, Helga, was a pianist and church accompanist. They had nine children. Four of the five boys became pastors; three of four girls married pastors. All nine children received degrees from Concordia College.
Because of the strong ties to Concordia College and Luther Seminary, they wanted to support Concordia students who would be entering the seminary and the role both entities play in society as a whole.
The Rev. Julius M. and Gladys M. Hovland Endowed Award is awarded by the Office of Financial Aid to seniors entering Luther Seminary, St. Paul, MN upon nomination of the Religion Department. Selection is based on financial need and scholastic achievement.