2026 Award Recipients

• Distinguished Service Award Past Recipients

  2025

  Dawn (Borgschatz) Johnson 1980

  For passionate leadership in higher education and tireless dedication to faith and academics.

  2023

  Dr. Daniel Hanson 1975

  For passionate leadership in higher education and tireless dedication to faith and academics.

  Elaine (Docken) Hanson 1975

  For deep devotion to civic engagement and service through faith and a selfless dedication to assisting others.

  Jote Kanaa Taddese 1995

  For being a faithful servant and excellence in the fields of information technology, education, and non-profit leadership.

  2022

  Nancy (Bergland) Olson 1975 & 1997

  For selfless dedication to serving others and exemplification of the Waldorf University mission and values.

  Nathan Anenson 2001 & 2002

  For faithful dedication and service to the church and deep commitment to serving others.

  Timothy Tarris 1970

  For extraordinary achievement and leadership in military service and outstanding contributions to community.

  2021

  Eunice Christensen 1957

  For faithful dedication and service to church, fostering an engaging community of learning and compassion in serving diverse communities.

  Olga Coulton-Shaw 1999

  For passionate work in and tireless efforts as an advocate for children living in poverty, displaying exceptional character and strong faith in all aspects of life.

  Dr. Kris Meyer 1975

  For effective leadership in a variety of educational settings, loyal service to the church and remarkable skills as a storyteller, public speaker and preacher.

  Donald Meyer 1972

  For deep commitment to higher education, love of historic preservation, loyal service to the church and outstanding contributions to community.

  2019

  Mr. Leslie M. Aasheim 1957

  For dedication to the education of youth and his extensive volunteerism efforts and ongoing leadership within the church and community.

  Rev. Thomas L. Jolivette 1974

  For passionate work in Christian higher education and ministry and his proven leadership in the field of development.

  2018

  Ms. O. Ardelle Osnes 1948

  For exemplary contribution and lifelong dedication to church and a career in healthcare, while relentlessly serving her community through outstanding volunteer efforts.

  Dr. Laura Friesenborg 1995

  For outstanding leadership and commitment to higher education administration and business while demonstrating her Christian faith in service to her church and community.

  2017

  Mr. Scott Anderson 1977

  For outstanding contributions to the financial services industry and exemplifying the ideals of Waldorf University.

  Rev. Robert C. Vaage 1979

  For selfless dedication to the church and inspirational leadership in living a life of service and furthering the mission of Jesus Christ.

  2016

  Mr. Bruce Carter 1973

  For outstanding service and leadership to the aviation industry and commitment to serving both profession and church with integrity and faith.

  Capt. Donald R. Shunkwiler, USN Ret. 1976

  For exemplary leadership and service to the United States Navy and for lifelong dedication to church and community.

  2015

  Ms. Marion Helland 1946

  For lifelong dedication to teaching and tirelessly serving as an advocate for human rights.

  Mr. Mike Stensland 1973

  For outstanding achievement in the financial profession and for dedicated service to church, community and Waldorf University.

  2014

  Mr. Kar Woo 1974

  For extraordinary achievements and tireless efforts as an advocate for the homeless, and for encouraging others to “Be the Change.”

  Mr. Brian Sansgaard 1977

  For outstanding and innovative contributions to the seed and farming industries, and for dedicated service to the church, community and Waldorf University.

  2013

  Dr. Mark Lund 1967

  For innovative contributions to Christian higher education in the United States and abroad, and for global service to the church.

  Jan Rosdail-Aegerter 1972

  For devoted leadership as special needs educator, tireless advocacy for the church wide mission of Christ, and unwavering commitment to Waldorf University.

  2012

  The Rev. Dr. Philip Holtan 1970

  For outstanding contributions to the Lutheran Church as pastor and innovative worship leader, and for selfless dedication to those in need.

  Janice (Shurson) Anderson 1972

  For professional excellence and integrity in the banking industry, and for selfless commitment to the betterment of society through local and international service.

  2011

  Mr. Harold Lee 1974

  For significant contributions to the world of music, and for lifelong dedication to Christian music ministry in the United States and China.

  2010

  Dr. Loyal Golv 1948

  For notable leadership in the church, and for significant contributions as an author and lecturer on the importance of stewardship.

  Richard Corcoran 1970

  For integrity and professional expertise in trust and investment management, and for outstanding leadership to Waldorf University and the community.

  2009

  Theodore E. Strand 1964

  For outstanding leadership and professional integrity in international business, and for inspirational service to church and community.

  Daniel H. Meyer 1977

  For cutting edge Christian entertainment and for spreading the Gospel throughout the world.

  2008

  Ms. Elain (Haaland) Edge 1952

  For significant contributions to education and HIV/AIDS prevention, and for outstanding leadership and selfless dedication to church and community.

  Ms. Elsie (Haakonson) Cook 1957

  For lifelong service as an educator and ambassador for Christ in the world, and for personifying the mission of Waldorf University.

  Dr. Philip Johnson 1980

  For strong Christian commitment to humbly serve in the United States and abroad, wherever and whenever needed, as a profound pastor, professor, and college president.

  Dr. Iqbal Z. Quadir 1978

  For extraordinary social and economic contributions to third world development, and for tireless and innovative efforts to make the world a better place.

  2007

  Jerry A. Showalter 1955

  For exceptional leadership and contribution to civic organizations, church, and community, and for motivating others by example.

  Dennis N. Highby 1969

  For professional excellence and integrity in the world of business and solid commitment to faith, family and community.

  Anna (Marie) Mitchell 1944

  For selfless dedication to the church in the United States and Japan , and for undying devotion and service to International Students at Waldorf University.

  2006

  Dr. Russel N. Osnes 1974

  For outstanding leadership in the profession of optometry, for dedicated services to church and community, and for exemplifying Christian faith and values in daily living.

  Capt. Phillip Oppedahl, USN Ret. 1955

  For exceptional contribution, leadership and service to the United States Navy, and for heroic, self-less efforts to help those in need.

  Dr. Kenneth A. Wall 1966

  For inspirational leadership in international higher education, and for undying dedication to community service, church, and lifelong learning.

  2005

  Mr. Stanley M. Severson 1951

  For dedicated service and leadership in business and community.

  Dr. David L. Weber 1962

  For outstanding vision and dedication in serving those with medical needs.

  2004

  Kathryn (Bruland) Alden 1971

  For outstanding service to the health care profession and for leadership given to the state of Iowa.

  Cynthia (Mork) Poole 1959

  For excellence as an educator and selfless dedication to church and community.

  Lester J. Swenson 1958

  For professional excellence in corporate finance and exemplary leadership in business, church and community.

  2003

  Robert L. Johnson 1954

  For exceptional achievement in architecture, notable leadership in the church and community, and for a lifetime of dedicated service to Waldorf University.

  2002

  Caroll Carson 1957

  For dedicated service to country, outstanding service as an educator and exemplary leadership in community organizations.

  Dr. Menkir Esayas 1962

  For inspiring leadership in advancing the communication efforts of the church throughout the world.

  Rolf Anderson 1972

  For exceptional achievement in the real estate industry adn for being a devoted ambassador of Forest City and Waldorf University.

  2001

  Dr. Irving Hall 1952

  For dedicated service to country, community and church and for his Christian witness of putting faith into action, upholding the ideals of Waldorf University.

  Thora (Anderson) Phelps 1945

  For outstanding leadership in educating students for a life of service and for dedicated service to church and community.

  Sterling Thompson 1947

  For outstanding leadership and professional excellence in education and for exemplary service to community and church.

  2000

  Dr. Marcus A. Keil 1935

  For outstanding and innovative contribution to the medical profession, and for dedicated and compassionate service to the people under his care.

  Howard A. Hovland 1948

  For selfless dedication to the advancement of adult education, and for exemplary leadership and generous contribution to the cultural life of his community.

  Sonia C. Solomonson 1961

  For exceptional achievement in the field of journalism, and for effective ministry in the church through inspirational writing and exemplification of the ideals of Waldorf University.

  1999

  Dr. Robert O. Belsheim 1942

  For extraordinary contribution and service to the United States Navy as mechanical engineer and researcher, and for exemplifying the ideals of Waldorf University.

  Dr. Donald R. Belville 1943

  For outstanding contribution to the field of radiology, and for exceptional achievement in advancing medical technology.

  Chaplain (COL) Irving C. Njus 1953

  For extraordinary ministry to the United States Army as chaplain, educator and trainer, and for lifelong service to church and community.

  Mr. Charles M. Skogerboe 1957

  For exemplary leadership in the human resources profession, and for dedicated service to church and community.

  Mr. Jarvis C. Jones 1979

  For outstanding contribution to the legal profession through leadership and advancement of minority opportunities, and through service to community.

  1998

  Mr. Reuben A. Hall 1928

  For meritorious service to country, and for lifelong dedication to the care of oppressed people across the world.

  Mr. Kenneth H. Beenken 1952

  For outstanding contribution to the corporate finance profession, and for faithfulness to the ideals of Waldorf University.

  Mr. Ronald K. Klipping 1960

  For extraordinary leadership and commitment to excellence in caring for the elderly, and for exemplifying the ideals of Waldorf University.

  Mr. Juan C. Moreno 1974

  For selfless dedication to serving diverse students, and for undying devotion toward building better understanding between people and cultures.

  1997

  Bishop Stanley N. Olson 1966

  For inspiring leadership in the church as parish pastor, educator and bishop, and for outstanding dedication and service to community.

  Mr. Bradbury H. Anderson 1969

  For outstanding achievement and leadership in corporate management, and for dedicated service to church and community.

  Dr. Ann (Hill) Duin 1975

  For selfless dedication to serving students, and for exceptional leadership, innovative contribution and exemplary service to higher education and the church.

  1996

  Dr. Awad A. Ismir 1956

  For outstanding contribution to the field of psychology, and for lifelong dedication to the care of the mentally ill.

  Mr. Marlyn A. Doppelhammer 1960

  For exceptional achievement in international business, and for outstanding loyalty to the ideals of Waldorf University.

  1995

  The Rev. Dr. Mons A. Teig 1955

  For outstanding contribution to the worship life of the church, and for exceptional and dedicated service to Christian higher education.

  Mr. Roger D. Espe 1962

  For dedicated service and outstanding achievement in the reinsurance industry, and for exemplary leadership in practicing Christian business ethics.

  Dr. Kenneth A. Dragseth 1965

  For outstanding leadership and professional excellence in education and administration, and for dedicated service to church and community.

  Dr. Randy P. Juhl 1968

  For extraordinary achievement in advancing the pharmacy profession, and for outstanding leadership and service to higher education.

  1994

  Mrs. Olga (Coltvet) Gilbertson 1934

  For undying devotion to Christian education as teacher and author, and for exemplary leadership in serving church and community.

  The Rev. Robert A. Evenson 1951

  For extraordinary leadership and service given to Christian higher education, and for exceptional achievement in advancing the mission of the church.

  Dr. Karl E. Holte 1952

  For professional excellence in serving students, as educator and scientist, with undying enthusiasm and lasting inspiration.

  1993

  Mr. Wallace ‘43 & Mrs. Miriam (Read) Erdahl 1943

  For selfless dedication to church and community as partners in service, and for outstanding contributions to corporate finance and environmental concerns. Ms. Ruth Tweeten Holtan ’43 For extraordinary leadership and contribution to Christian higher education and public affairs, and for exemplary service to church and community.

  Mr. Ardell M. Banker 1948

  For outstanding commitment and exceptional service to church and society, and for unfailing devotion to the care of troubled children.

  The Rev. Richard N. Varberg 1953

  For outstanding Christian commitment and witness to the people of The Philippines, and for extraordinary achievement in expanding the Christian church.

  1992

  Mrs. Enid (Hanson) Robinson 1931

  For dedicated leadership in public affairs both nationally and internationally, and for lifelong service to her community.

  Mr. Robert A. Peterson 1939

  For outstanding contributions to the field of electronics engineering, the airline industry, and our National Defense system.

  Mr. Sewell J. Mathre 1942

  For outstanding contribution to church architecture, and for extraordinary achievement as a distinguished architect.

  Dr. Willis S. Gertner 1951

  For extraordinary contributions to the field of religious studies, and for dedicated leadership and service to church and community.

  1991

  Ms. Melva Rorem 1932

  For dedicated service to church and community as distinguished poet and inspirational author, exemplifying the ideals of Waldorf University.

  Ms. Shirley (Olson) Teig 1954

  For outstanding leadership and service to the Lutheran Church as administrator, consultant and educator.

  Mr. William R. Johnson 1958

  For outstanding achievement in the financial services profession, and for dedicated leadership in serving church, community and Waldorf University.

  Mr. Ronald H. Christiansen 1962

  For dedicated service to native Canadians, as consultant and advocate on their behalf, and for extraordinary contributions to the human development field.

  1990

  Ms. Marjorie (Norby) Engebretson 1941

  For dedicated commitment and service to Christian education and for exemplification of the ideals of Waldorf University.

  Mr. Ronald W. Hunter 1950

  For extraordinary leadership in service to community as historian, author and public servant, and for outstanding contributions to the field of law.

  Dr. Olaf O. Storaasli 1962

  For extraordinary contributions to science and engineering as research scientist and consultant, and for dedicated service to church and community.

  1989

  Mr. Lawrence N. Gesme 1932

  For lifelong service to social concerns of church and community, and for exemplary leadership in fulfilling civic duties.

  The Rev. Philip Hyland 1936

  For dedicated Christian commitment and witness to the people of Japan, and for exemplification of the ideals of Waldorf University.

  Mr. Charles B. Olson 1960

  For outstanding leadership in business administration, and for dedicated support and service given to Christian higher education.

  Dr. Oscar T. Lenning 1961

  For extraordinary contributions to higher education as researcher, consultant, administrator, teacher and scholar.

  1988

  Mr. Herbert D. Ihle 1959

  For extraordinary achievement and leadership in corporate finance, and for continual commitment to serving both profession and church with integrity and vitality.

  Mr. Julian L. Anderson 1936

  For notable contributions to international relations through agricultural business, and for exemplary service and loyalty to country, church and family.

  Ms. Ramona (Swenson) McKee 1949

  For lifelong service and leadership to her church as volunteer and professional, and for sensitive and courageous advocation of peace and justice for humanity.

  Dr. David S. Dahl 1956

  For outstanding contributions as a medical professional, as an educator in neurology and medical ethics, and for Christian commitment to community, profession and church.

  1987

  Mrs. Connie (Fredrickson) Danielson 1936

  For untiring devotion to church and community as a respected music teacher, committed to the ideals of Waldorf University.

  Mr. Selmer Norland 1936

  For a distinguished career in military intelligence, diplomatic service to the United States Government, education, church, and community.

  Col. Earl Kuehnast 1940

  For meritorious service to country, church, and community and for significant contributions to the field of climatology.

  Col. Irving Kuehnast 1940

  For meritorious service to country and education as a meteorologist and Christian leader.

  Ms. Georgette (Vikingstad) Valle 1944

  For outstanding political leadership in the state of Washington and dedication to church and civic organizations.

  1986

  Dr. Silas L. Boyd 1925

  For preeminent leadership as master choral conductor, educator, administrator and friend enriching and advancing vocal music, especially the a cappella choral tradition.

  Ms. Orene (Madson) Docken 1936

  For spirited participation, promotion and enrichment of the performing arts as gifted violinist and lasting Christian witness as friend and confidante.

  Mr. Arnold J. Warren 1936

  For generous self giving as a valued, loving friend, respected civic leader, inspiring and gifted musician, and caring servant of God, and for loyal, consistent support of Waldorf University.

  1985

  Mr. Irving Bud Alne 1949

  For notable contributions to astronautics and exceptional management and executive leadership in the success of the United States Space Program.

  Ms. Ruth (Hall) Dacken1935

  For faithful Christian witness and leadership to the people of Swaziland, Zululand and South Africa in evangelism and discipleship programs, especially for women and children.

  Dr. Olaf K. Storaasli 1935

  For lasting contributions to the Lutheran Church in the United States and Canada as a profound theologian, thorough biblical scholar and professor, inspiring mentor and esteemed church leader.

  1984

  Mr. Gordon Aasgaard 1926

  For professional excellence as master editor publisher and eminent service to Waldorf University and Christian Higher Education.

  Ms. Barbara (Hanson) Bulman 1943

  For significant compilations enriching Norwegian-American cultural heritage and corporate management promotion of academic excellence through computer-based education.

  Mr. Wilfred Lingren 1939

  For innovative and aggressive leadership in financial marketing and research and competent, incisive business management skills.

  Mrs. Bertha (Solberg) Vorland 1944

  For Christian witness as master teacher promoting international understanding and excellence in education.

  1983

  Ms. Ingeborg Coltvet 1927

  For excellence in teaching and selfless dedicated commitment to Christian Higher Education at Waldorf University.

  Ms. Marguerite L. Johnson 1953

  For perceptive, conscientious journalism, professional excellence in writing and exemplification of the ideals of Waldorf University.

  Mr. Gustav B. Odegaard 1933

  For notable contributions to our Norwegian-American spiritual heritage as pastor, teacher and faithfulness to the ideals of Waldorf University.

  1979

  Dr. Reinhart J. Swenson 1909

  Distinguished educator, author, man of letters, community leader, friend of Waldorf.

  1978

  Dr. Thomas B. Thorson 1936

  For outstanding achievement in Higher Education and Scientific Research and representing the ideals of Waldorf University.

  1977

  Mr. Clemens Erdahl 1937

  For outstanding achievement as a certified public accountant on an international level, contributions to church, community and country, and loyalty to Waldorf University.

  1975

  Ms. Dorcas (Byro) Dorow1945

  For outstanding leadership and service to Waldorf University, significant contributions to her church and community, and for upholding the ideals of the University.

  Dr. Paul D. Mork 1952

  For his outstanding leadership, spiritual counsel, and warm friendship which have inspired the lives of those whom we has served as University President, parish pastor and community leader.

  Dr. Clair Kloster 1933

  For significant contributions to Christian Higher Education as educator and youth counselor and for outstanding service to church and community.

  1974

  Mr. Selmer H. Berg 1913

  For outstanding achievement in education as an administrator, teacher and lecturer, and for leadership in civic and community organizations.

  1973

  Judge Carroll Larson 1936

  For exemplary achievement in the field of law and for selfless commitment to the betterment of society in service to church and community.

  1972

  Dr. Raymond M. Olson 1932

  For a lifetime of leadership in the church as pastor, author, teacher, executive and college president. Mr. Clarence Larson ’12 Whose outstanding career as an educator, attorney and churchman has brought honor to himself and his profession.

  1970

  Mr. Norman Madson 1941

  For achievements in architecture, creative lay leadership in the church and faithfulness to the ideals of Waldorf University. Mr. Clifton Madson ’35 Creative musician, preeminent choir master, exemplary educational leader.

  Mr. Olaf Gjellefald 1908

  For outstanding achievements in engineering and construction, and for valued encouragement as a friend of Christian Higher Education.

  Mr. Reuben Monson 1940

  For proven leadership and noted accomplishments in the fields of journalism and government service. Dr. Oscar Lyders ’12 Founder of the Waldorf University A Cappella Choir; accomplished choral conductor and professor advancing the understanding and appreciation of good music.

  Dr. Marie (Malmin) Meyer 1915

  For inspiring creative scholarship as a learned and revered professor of Shakespearean literature.

  Dr. Luther Tweeten 1952

  For outstanding achievement in agriculture, economics and education, and for notable contributions to government and society.

  1969

  Mrs. Hyla (Beroen) Lehman 1934

  For her eminent career in the field of education, and notable leadership in community and church development and growth.

  Mr. Erling Haugo 1917

  For proficiency in banking finance, dedicated public service and commitment to Christian education and church expansion.

  Mr. Elling Halvorson 1952

  For unique accomplishments in general construction projects, influence in the Christian church and regard for family and friends.

  1968

  Dr. Grace (Erdahl) Mickelson 1945

  For leadership in education, high achievement in public service, and upholding the ideas of Waldorf University.

  Dr. Theodore J. Jorgenson 1918

  For notable contributions to our Norwegian-American cultural heritage through distinguished teaching, creative study, and the interpretation of Norwegian language and literature.

  Dr. William Myerly 1939

  For service to mankind through medicine, professional excellence in cardiovascular and thoracic surgery, and fidelity to the Christian ethic.

  Mr. John K. Hanson 1932

  For outstanding achievement in industrial development and business administration and creative leadership in area and community growth.

  1967

  Dr. Alida Storaasli 1937

  For dedicated service in the educational program of The American Lutheran Church and representative of the ideals of Waldorf University.

  Col. Clifford Sheldon 1927

  For earnest effort in behalf of country and calling and representative of the ideals of Waldorf University.

  Dr. Oswald Thorson 1932

  For outstanding accomplishment in architecture, leadership in community development, and fidelity to Christian convictions.

  Mr. Phillip Thorson 1934

  For outstanding service in government administration and finance at the national and international level and fidelity to Christian convictions.

  1965

  Mr. Homer Danielson 1936

  For outstanding service to Waldorf University and to the total program of Christian Higher Education in The American Lutheran Church.

  Dr. Marvin Anderson 1934

  For outstanding service in the field of higher education in agriculture in the United States and abroad.

  1964

  Mrs. Margaret (Lyng) Hagen 1926

  For selfless dedication to Waldorf University, untiring witness in the church and exemplifying the "Waldorf Spirit".

  1963

  Dr. Clemens M. Granskou 1913

  For service to Waldorf University and Higher Education in the American Lutheran Church.

• Lifetime Achievement Award Past Recipients

  2025

  Ingrid (Levik) Gangestad 1985