Waldorf University received two significant gifts from Bill and Mary Johnson totaling over $2.5 million. To honor their generosity and to celebrate a lifetime of love for Waldorf University, William (Bill) 1958 and Mary (Carlson) 1958 Johnson are honored with the 2024 C.S. Salveson Award. A celebration will occur on Saturday, October 5, 2024, at 11:30 a.m. in the Waldorf Atrium. 

“Waldorf holds a special place in the hearts of Bill and Mary,” said Ray Beebe, Waldorf Lutheran College Foundation board chair. “It is where they met and started their lifetime together.”

In addition to honoring Bill and Mary Johnson with the prestigious C.S. Salveson Award, Waldorf will dedicate the newly named William (Bill) 1958 and Mary (Carlson) 1958 Johnson Ballroom at 1 p.m. in the Salveson Lobby.

 “We’re so grateful for the generous support of Bill and Mary Johnson,” said Dr. Robert Alsop, Waldorf University president. “Through their generosity, Waldorf University resolved the final $1.5 million indebtedness, making us 100% debt-free. The second gift of $1 million proudly serves as a launching pad for philanthropy, and significantly bolsters the Waldorf Lutheran College Foundation holdings to ensure long-term vibrancy.”

“The Johnsons will have a direct and lasting impact on the lives of our students,” said Severin Roberts, vice president for Engagement and Advancement and executive director of Waldorf Lutheran College Foundation. “We are so thankful Bill and Mary Johnson want to impact campus and make sure Waldorf thrives and grows in the decades to come. They have truly paved the way for other donors to deeply impact Waldorf with their own philanthropy.”

By retiring debt, Waldorf University is in an enviable position in the higher education landscape. By then also making such a huge philanthropic investment, Waldorf can focus on the future, invest in new programs, and make campus investments.”

“I am so grateful for the generosity of Bill and Mary Johnson and for showing our entire community, that the future is bright for Waldorf students,” Alsop said.

About Waldorf University
Founded in 1903, Waldorf University is a regionally accredited liberal arts institution in Forest City, Iowa. Waldorf offers a range of engaging learning experiences through innovative residential and online instruction. The university provides associate, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees, as well as certificates in various fields including business, communication, criminal justice administration, education, music, psychology, and theatre. For more details, visit waldorf.edu.

About Waldorf Lutheran College Foundation
The Waldorf Lutheran College Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting Waldorf University and its students. The Foundation’s fundraising supports the University’s mission “to educate the whole person, preparing students for fulfilling lives in their communities.” The most beneficial gifts are to the Waldorf Fund and to endowed funds. The Foundation also provides scholarships, supports campus ministry, enhances alumni relations, and funds programs and special initiatives. The Foundation manages the investment of endowed funds and ensures fiscal oversight of the University. For more information, please visit waldorf.edu/waldorffoundation.