bing pixel

Homecoming 2013

Homecoming brings alumni, friends back to campus

Share this:

Homecoming 2013 reunited former classmates, friends, roommates, and professors, and invigorated the Auggie spirit in everyone in attendance.

Traditional celebrations ensued, including the Homecoming Convocation with Distinguished Alumni Awards; the Taste of Augsburg event in Murphy Square featuring food, carnival-style booths, and bounce houses; and lively athletic events including an alumni baseball game and dugout dedication ceremony, as well as volleyball, soccer, and football games.

The week also boasted the Eye-Opener Breakfast featuring Augsburg alumnus Dr. Paul Mueller ’84; reunion brunches; campus tours; an Athletic Hall of Fame induction ceremony to honor 2013 inductees; an Auggie Author book reading with Cheri Johnson ’99; a panel discussion about the Center for Science, Business, and Religion; and the Augsburg Associates luncheon with a presentation by Jacqueline deVries, Augsburg professor of history and director of general education.

The merriment came to a close at the Auggie Block Party with live music and s’mores.

Homecoming is just one of many ways for Augsburg alumni to stay connected to the College. If you are interested in serving on your reunion committee or volunteering to help plan next year’s events, contact alumni@augsburg.edu. For more information, visit augsburg.edu/alumni.

Alumni award recipients

First Decade Award

Honors an Auggie who graduated during the past 10 years who has exemplified the mission of the College while achieving significant progress in his or her professional achievements and contributions in the community.

Alexa Halford ’03

Halford, who graduated from Augsburg with a bachelor of arts in physics and mathematics, currently is a lecturer and postdoctoral researcher in physics at Dartmouth College.

After graduating from Augsburg, she earned a master’s degree in astronomy and planetary sciences from the University of Colorado Boulder and a doctorate in physics at the University of Newcastle. Shortly afterward, she won a highly competitive Visiting Young Scientist fellowship from Dartmouth College.

“Augsburg is small, but that’s what makes it so special. I have people here in my corner, and you will, too.”

Spirit of Augsburg Award

Honors alumni and friends of the College who have given of their service to substantially impact the well-being of Augsburg’s mission and programs.

Alfred Reesnes ’58

Reesnes is dedicated to using his love of music to serve the College. For 33 years, he taught high school music and developed choirs noted for high-quality performance and literature.

He was a charter member of the Augsburg Centennial Singers and assistant director from 1993-2001.

“I’ve had the wonder of studying music for many years…it’s for Him we sing, to tell the wonders of His love.”

Alan Rice

Rice, an Olympic athlete and coach, is one of the most respected and honored men in U.S. Greco-Roman wrestling. He also is a member of the U.S. Wrestling Hall of Fame. He is a long-time friend and supporter of the College, and responsible for the world-class Alan and Gloria Rice Wrestling Center in Kennedy Center.

“I’ve been so privileged to be so involved in Augsburg. Thank you for allowing me to participate. Thank you, Augsburg.”

Distinguished Alumni Awards

Honors alumni in recognition of a significant achievement in their vocation, for outstanding contribution to church and community, and for leading a life that exemplifies the ideals and mission of the College.

H. Theodore Grindal ’76

Grindal is former chair of the Augsburg Board of Regents and a partner in the law firm of Lockridge Grindal Nauen PLLP. He repeatedly has been recognized as one of Minnesota’s top lobbyists.

“I’ve tried to follow five principles throughout my life: God, family, friends, work, and service. Remember who you are. Be true to yourself, be authentic, let that be your guidepost.”

Clayton McNeff ’91

McNeff is vice president of research at SarTec, Ever Cat Fuels LLC, Mcgyan Biodiesel LLC, and other family businesses. He is known as the co-creator of the patented Mcgyan process, which uses non-food sources to create biodiesel.

“I dedicate this award to my mother, Marie Olive McNeff, and I urge you to use your gifts to help those around you. Work together to pay it back and pay it forward.”

Roselyn Nordaune ’77

Nordaune is founder of the law firm, Nordaune & Friesen PLLC, and is known for her work in family law. She is a former member of the Augsburg Board of Regents and dedicated to engaging Augsburg alumnae in the philanthropic priorities of the College.

“I pledge you: I’m not done yet. I pledge to Augsburg my work, my resources, my service.”

Share this: