Jeff Nodland ’77 and Becky Bjella-Nodland ’79 credit Augsburg with shaping the values, relationships, faith, and sense of purpose that continue to guide their lives. For them, Augsburg was more than a university—it was a place where mentors, peers, and experiences nurtured growth, inspired initiative, and instilled a commitment to community. These enduring experiences laid the foundation for their belief in access, mentorship, and ethical leadership, and ultimately for their desire to ensure future Auggies have the same opportunities to thrive.
Jeff and Becky reflected on the professors, classmates, and experiences that had the greatest impact on them. Becky shared, “The encouragement and guidance I received from my professors as a musician had a profound impact on my growth and development.” Jeff echoed that sentiment, noting, “I was fortunate to be involved in many campus activities, and through those experiences we met many of our lifelong friends.”
Jeff earned degrees in both business and religion before obtaining his MBA from the University of St. Thomas. With the values and skills he cultivated at Augsburg, he went on to build a distinguished corporate career, serving in numerous corporate leadership positions, including as President and CEO of Kik Consumer Products until his retirement in 2019. Jeff now serves on five corporate boards worldwide. Becky earned her degree in music education along with a master’s degree in choral conducting. She went on to teach in public schools for many years while also directing both adult and youth church choirs.
Even after Jeff’s career moved their family to Texas more than forty years ago, their connection to Augsburg continued to deepen and evolve. Jeff served on the Board of Regents from 2011 to 2023, including two years as board chair, and Becky contributed her time and expertise to the Music Advisory Council. Together, Jeff and Becky served as co-chairs of Augsburg’s All-Class Reunion in 2022, and they currently co-chair an advisory council for President Pribbenow. Beyond these formal roles, the bonds and values they formed on campus continue to guide their philanthropic vision.
These principles inspired Jeff and Becky to support initiatives that provide students with the direction, resources, and mentorship needed to grow as leaders. As part of the Promising Futures: Faithful and Relevant campaign, their gift establishes the Jeff Nodland ’77 and Becky Bjella-Nodland ’79 Endowed Directorship for the School of Business, fulfills a match to the Bonner Program, and strengthens the new Augsburg Family Scholars program. “I wouldn’t have been able to receive my education without scholarships,” Becky said. “Helping students reach their goals and turn their dreams into reality is incredibly meaningful.” For Jeff and Becky, contributing to these areas felt like a fitting way to pay forward the opportunities they once received. “I have worked with foster youth, and many of them don’t have a safety net to rely on once they turn 18.” Becky shared. Jeff added, “We are thrilled to support a program that is addressing this unmet need for students.”
While their support demonstrates their deep commitment to access, they are equally focused on the leaders who shape the student experience.
For Jeff and Becky, philanthropy is about ensuring Augsburg remains a place where students are seen, supported, and prepared to lead. “It’s important to have good leadership at the top. The director sets the culture and the trajectory for the school,” Jeff said. “Establishing a role model that encourages critical thinking and ethical discourse will create future leaders who demonstrate thoughtfulness and integrity. Our world needs that.”
As the Nodlands envision the future, they look forward to seeing how Augsburg continues to grow and thrive. “My dad always said to leave a place better than you found it,” Becky reflected. “Whether we are helping students civically engage through the Bonner Program, supporting students with a foster care background, or setting students up for success in the business school, we are creating a place where they feel a sense of belonging and grow in confidence—so they can go out into the world and leave it better than they found it.”