This August, five Concordia faculty and staff members were honored at the State of the College event. These individuals demonstrate Cobber excellence, in and out of the classroom, and uphold the values that Concordia holds to the forefront.
Dr. Darin Ulness, professor of chemistry, was presented with the Reuel and Alma Wije Distinguished Professorship Award. He has been at the college for more than 25 years and, throughout his time here, has earned the respect of students and colleagues alike, especially for his explanations of complex topics in physical and general chemistry. Ulness has served in leadership roles like chair of the Promotion, Tenure, and Evaluation committee, department chair for chemistry, and division chair for sciences and mathematics. He is an enthusiastic and innovative professor, mentor, and scholar, guiding students in achieving their goals.
Dr. Dan Biebighauser, professor of mathematics, received the Ole and Lucy Flaat Distinguished Teaching Award in recognition of his exceptional teaching and mentorship. In the classroom, Biebighauser is known for creating an inclusive and supportive learning environment, with students feeling valued and motivated to excel. He consistently receives exceptional evaluations with students praising his good humor, authentic interest in their lives, and his innate ability to make students feel like they have a home in the math department. His leadership goes beyond the classroom, where he is a PEAK mentor and works with Habitat for Humanity. Biebighauser instills in his students a love of learning and a sense of confidence in their abilities.
Ben Schneweis, associate athletic director and director of compliance, was presented with the Ole and Lucy Flaat Inclusive Excellence Award. He joined the college in 2012, where he has served multiple roles, including men’s soccer coach and assistant athletic director. In his current role, he serves as the diversity and inclusion designee for Cobber Athletics and is a member of our campus Diversity Council, where he has been pivotal in developing DEIJ (diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice) initiatives. Schneweis is committed to providing support and resources for underrepresented populations on campus and empowers student-athletes to champion social change.
Katie Curry, costume designer/shop manager and adjunct instructor, received the Ole and Lucy Flaat Distinguished Service Award. She joined the college in 2013, transforming the costume shop into a welcoming space for theatre students. She mentors aspiring costume designers, supervises interns, and consistently delivers excellent designs for Concordia Theatre. Her impact on student education is significant, as she teaches essential skills and helps students achieve their goals. In 2020, she earned the University and Regional Theatre Association Award for Excellence in Undergraduate Training. Curry also provides ongoing mentorship to alumni and supports students' well-being, balancing their personal and professional lives.
Dr. Julie Rutherford was presented with the Ole and Lucy Flaat Distinguished Advisor Award. Rutherford is an associate professor of biology and directs the pre-health professions program and post-baccalaureate pre-medical program. Described as "the quintessential Concordia College advisor," Rutherford is known for her dedication to student success and well-being. She created the Health Profession Application Preparation course and has been on Concordia’s Health Professions Advisory Committee for more than 20 years. Rutherford goes above and beyond in her support of students, helping students through applying to graduate and professional schools. Through her innovative and holistic teaching methods, she equips students with the tools they need to succeed academically and professionally.
The Flaat awards, conferred by Concordia’s Board of Regents, were endowed by Ole and Lucy Flaat, lifelong farmers in the Red River Valley. The Reuel and Alma Wije Professorship recognizes superior classroom teaching and significant service to the college and the church.