Valparaiso University Alumni Homepage

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Grounded in Faith | Gabby Unzicker ‘25

Gabby Unzicker ‘25, didn’t have a faith-based education in mind when choosing where to attend college but says that Valpo found her and has quickly become engrained in her life. She says, “There’s a lot of hope and encouragement knowing that I went from not feeling anything personal to my faith to feeling overwhelmingly surrounded and loved by the faith community I’ve begun to call my second home in just three years.” She continues, “I get to be constantly reminded of how important my work is, even in the grand scheme of this University. I know that God has great plans for me, and they are slowly but surely being revealed to me as I become more attentive to my reflections and intentional in my care.”

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Follow the Beacon | Kimberly Dana ‘91

Stories have always been a powerful way to bring people together, offering new perspectives and fostering understanding. For Valparaiso University alumna, Kimberly Dana ‘91, storytelling is more than just a passion—it’s a lifelong mission. As an educator, literacy coach, and award-winning author, she has dedicated her career to supporting children as they navigate new languages, cultures, and identities.

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Grounded in Faith | Allison DeMik ‘25

Allison DeMik wasn’t involved in many faith-based activities in her first semester at Valpo, leaving her feeling aimless. She says, “The moment I started attending church services, I felt like I found myself again. Living out my faith in such a real way gave me purpose. It was something to look forward to. It started my week off right when I went to Candlelight or Monday Morning Prayer and brought it to a close when I went to Friday Morning Prayer. Before I knew it, Candlelight was a non-negotiable part of my week. On the days when I was too sick or too busy to go, I was burnt out much earlier in the week and craving that intimate connection with God all the more the next week.”

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Rin Curtis ’76 Seibert: A Legacy of Love

Rin Curtis ’76 Seibert was a staple at Valparaiso University for nearly 40 years, dedicating her career—and much of her life—to the students and recreational sports programs at Valpo. She served as director of recreational sports, associate director of athletics, and kinesiology professor during her time at the University, impacting generations of students, alumni, and community members. In early 2025, it was announced that the campus fitness center would be renamed the “Rin Seibert Fitness Center” in honor of Rin and her impact on so many.

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Follow the Beacon | Roland Baumann ‘54

My journey with Valparaiso University began on a spring day in 1954, just weeks before graduation. At the time, the Korean War ceasefire had been negotiated, but the U.S. Army was still drafting individuals into service. My local draft board in Los Angeles had granted me a student deferment to complete my final year, but I knew that I would be entering the Army come August.

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Grounded in Faith | Cam Haggett ‘28

Cam Haggett’s (they/them) faith is an important part of their life. Cam even hopes to go into ministry after graduation. Cam says, “My faith has shaped every aspect of who I am, from my relationships to my interests to my future career path. Without my faith, I would be a completely different person.” Cam continues, “My faith provides me with a framework through which I can view myself, my work, and my actions. It helps me make decisions and interpret the world around me.”

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Follow the Beacon | John Yelkich ‘11

John Yelkich began studying at Valparaiso University in 1985. Valpo’s reputation as one of the best universities in the Midwest drew his interest, and he says he was lucky enough to be accepted. John says, “I came to Valpo knowing exactly what I wanted to do. I was going to study criminal justice, which required a sociology degree with a concentration in criminal justice.

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Grounded in Faith | Natalya Reister ‘25

Natalya Reister is studying sociology and theology at Valpo, hoping to enter chaplaincy after graduation. She said she hopes that her sociology major will help her to understand the people she will support as a future chaplain, including herself. She says, “My faith has helped me reckon with the fact that we're broken people in a broken world. Knowing I come into spaces flawed, faith gives me hope and an ability to see the world with love and, in turn, accept the love of others. In terms of my identity, I think faith shapes the way I view others and interact with others, not as exchanges but as a community.”

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Follow the Beacon | Kim Wagner ‘84 Barnett and Thomas Barnett ‘84

Kim and Thomas Barnett were destined for one another. They were both expected to attend Depauw University before landing at Valpo. Thomas, a journalism major and business minor, and Kim, a nursing major, first crossed paths at the first icebreaker session during their freshman year.

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Love and Legacy, Everlasting

Perhaps one of the longest-standing Valpo traditions is that of the Student ‘Kissing’ Bridge. The bridge dates back to the mid to late 1800s and served as a safe walkway for students, linking ‘old campus’ to student housing and connecting to a passageway leading to Sager's Lake, a former recreational park. As the lore goes, couples would go to the bridge to ‘test their love.’ If the couple kissed as the Pennsylvania Railroad coal trains rolled by and were still kissing as it passed, it was said that their love would be everlasting.

This is the story of how that bridge was brought back to campus.

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Grounded in Faith | Eli Conklin ‘27

Eli Conklin grew up in faith communities his entire life. He says choosing Valpo was important because he could cultivate his faith even more. He says, “Attending a faith-based university was important to me because I knew there would be a culture where faith is accepted. Attending Valpo doesn’t mean that everyone is a Christian, but there is a much more positive attitude towards faith in general, which creates a place where my faith can be cultivated.”

Read the Full Article>>

GoBabyGo | The Joy of Mobility

GoBabyGo launched at Valparaiso University in early 2024 with the goal of helping children with disabilities gain the ability to navigate their surroundings and explore the world around them. The project began as a spark of hope at the University of Delaware and has since grown into a worldwide movement of compassion and innovation. Its mission is simple yet profound: to enhance mobility and improve the quality of life for children who face challenges in their early developmental years. Through this project, children can access solutions that empower them to explore their world with newfound freedom and joy.

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Follow the Beacon | Bob Wichlinski ‘82, ‘13 MALS

Bob Wichlinski is a busy man. He is a husband, father, brand-new grandfather, and a self-described serial entrepreneur. He says, “I love breathing life into dreams and creating something from ashes.” Not only is Bob a current faculty member in Valpo’s computer science department, but he is also a singer-songwriter, the first male ever elected to the Valparaiso University Guild board (over 90 years in the making!), Gubernatorial appointee to the Indiana Executive Council on CyberSecurity, a USGA member of more than 35 years, Treasurer of the Porter County 4-H Council, Vice-President of Porter County Farm Bureau, a volunteer coordinator at the Indiana Dunes National Park, Valparaiso University Marshall, and even a competitive barbecuer!

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Grounded in Faith | Kurt Brown ‘25

Kurt Brown’s identity is deeply rooted in his faith, so it was important to him to attend a faith-based institution like Valpo. He says, “My faith defines who I am as an individual. My identity as a redeemed child of God is the basis for who I am and how I live my life. It is the first and most important thing about me. I wanted to go to an environment where faith is valued and strengthened. Since I think it is the most important thing, attending a university where faith is seen as something ancillary at best would be odd.” Brown continues, “My faith has played an important role in keeping me steady. Sometimes, it can be hard to be motivated and discern one’s purpose in the world. With my faith at the core of my life, I have something constant to refer back to.”

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Welcome to the Team Shaun Sahlhoff

Shaun Sahlhoff has joined Valparaiso University as the Executive Director of External Relations, where he will have the opportunity to engage in community outreach to ultimately help align external initiatives with the goals of the University. Of his new role, Sahlhoff says, “My role centers on building and maintaining relationships that support the University's mission and objectives. Every day, I’ll collaborate with government officials, community organizations, and corporate partners to identify opportunities for strategic cooperation.”

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Grounded in Faith | Isabel Gauss ‘26

For Isabel Gauss, faith is the foundation on which she built her life. “Faith is also the comfort when I need comfort, and the strength when I need strength, and someone to celebrate with me when I need that. When everything is turned back to that and focused on that, then whatever's going on in the world doesn't seem as big or scary as it may be without it.” She adds that coming to Valpo has allowed her to grow even more in her faith, serve in the church, and be around other Christians.

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Follow the Beacon | Aaron Willis '14

Growing up in South Bend, Indiana, Aaron Willis ’14 never anticipated that seven students from his graduating class would attend Valparaiso University. Willis says, “After taking the PSAT my sophomore and junior year of high school, I started to see a lot of information about Valpo and looked into their Track program. A classmate’s father told me that, based on my grades, I likely wouldn’t get in.” He continues, “I took that as a challenge right then and there and decided that I would be accepted to Valpo and graduate from the University. And I did.”

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Follow the Beacon | Barbara Schwarz ‘76

Nearly 50 years ago, when Barbara Schwarz ‘76 was a student at Valparaiso University, she discovered that her family’s connection to the University ran much deeper than she realized. She explains, “About 50 years ago was the 50th anniversary of Valpo becoming a Lutheran institution. I was a student at Valpo then, so my grandmother contacted me to tell me she and my grandfather had donated funds towards that effort and are listed as founders of the University!”

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Literary Luminaries Spotlight | Jim Iddins ‘11 MALS

Jim Iddins ‘11 MALS is a two-time published author and high-school teacher whose latest book, The One That Went Away, was published in November 2023. It is a fictionalized account of his personal experiences as a senior in high school. “The One That Went Away deals with an experience that I had during my senior year of high school of being sent away to a behavior modification program.” Iddins explains, “I was there for 15 months in the mountains of Montana in one of those troubled teen programs. These programs are starting to get more notice with people like Paris Hilton coming forward to give testimony. So, this is my testimony.”

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Follow the Beacon | Alexandria Lagesse ‘12, ‘15 M.S.

Alexandria Lagesse ‘12, ‘15 M.S. knew that coming to Valpo would give her the opportunity to receive a fantastic education while making an impact on and off the field. At the time, she was being recruited to play softball and was excited about the potential of the team and the vision that was shared with her. She says, “When I went on my visit, I think everybody in my incoming class was there. I really connected with them. I loved the vision that was being talked about and being lived by the current team. I was drawn to that.”

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Shining Bright in Every Direction: Matthew Yee ’24 Named 2024 Tau Beta Pi Laureate

Valpo is proud to announce that Matthew Yee ’24 has been recognized as a 2024 Tau Beta Pi Laureate, a prestigious honor that highlights his exceptional accomplishments in engineering and beyond. For Matthew, the Tau Beta Pi Laureate designation is not just a recognition of his engineering achievements, but a celebration of the comprehensive education he received at Valparaiso University.

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Follow the Beacon | Andrew Benson ‘21

Andrew’s advice to other young leaders is simple. “Try to find something you're interested in, but also make sure you're actually buying into it and giving your best effort. Your time at Valpo is short. Ultimately, you're there for probably four years, so make sure you're taking time to be present. It goes by a lot faster than you think.”

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President Padilla and Five Valpo Alumni Named Most Influential Business Leaders in Indiana

Each year, IBJ Media names its list of the Indiana 250, a list of the state’s most influential and impactful leaders in business, philanthropy, the arts, government, and not-for-profits. These men and women are making a difference locally, regionally, and across the state. Valparaiso University proudly celebrates the alumni and friends featured in this year's list. They make us all #ProudToBeValpo!

Follow the Beacon | Antuane Thompson '20

Antuane Thompson, ’20, had plenty of options regarding his higher education plans. He was accepted to multiple universities while participating in a college degree path program at his high school. Thompson visited several of these campuses but says Valpo had something special he was looking for.

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Staff Spotlight | Janet Lajcin

My desk is in the lobby of the Career and Alumni Network, so I am the first person you see when you come into our office. I greet our visitors and answer whatever questions they have. I am the main scheduler for the career advising appointments for our students and alumni with our staff members. I also provide administrative support to the office for our projects and events.

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Follow the Beacon | Gideon Litherland ’12

Gideon Litherland’s impact on the lives of others epitomizes what it means to be a Beacon. His foundation of advocating for others began here at Valpo and continues on, even in the face of uncertainty, inspiring others to lead and illuminate the path toward a brighter, more compassionate world.

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Staff Spotlight | Luke Whiteman

My day-to-day can look drastically different depending on what's going on! Some of the things I frequently do are meet with students and alumni on a variety of career-related topics (resume and/or cover letter review and writing, LinkedIn creation and/or review, major and minor exploration, mock interviews, job and internship search, or even just "what do I want to do with my life?" advising).

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Follow The Beacon | Chip Pettit '96

When Chip Pettit ’96 chose to attend and play baseball for Valparaiso University, he wasn’t sure yet where his academic pursuits would take him. “I was ‘undecided’ on a major well into the fall semester of my sophomore year.” Pettit says, “I remember my advisor telling me that I had to pick a major and I still didn’t know what I wanted to do..."

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Follow the Beacon | Krystal Peña '21

When Krystal Peña ‘21 was deciding which college to attend after high school, she knew she wanted to be far enough away from her home in Chicago to feel independent, yet close enough to home to get back quickly if necessary. As a first-generation student, Peña didn’t have the experiences of her family to fall back on.

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Staff Spotlight | Christine Radtke

Last week, the Office of Advancement welcomed a brand-new team member! Christine Radtke joins Valparaiso University as the newly appointed Assistant Vice President of Development. Radtke comes to Valpo with a deep fundraising and higher education background and explains how the mission inspired her to pursue a career here.

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Follow the Beacon | Jeanette Gray ’03, ’09 M.Ed.

If you spend any amount of time with Jeanette Gray ’03, ’09 M.Ed., you’ll walk away feeling inspired to dream bigger than you thought imaginable and ready to chase after your lifelong goals.

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Follow the Beacon | Terry Trautman '60

For Terry Trautman ’60, the first time he ever set foot on the Valparaiso University campus was the first day of his freshman year.

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Follow the Beacon: Jason Hallman ’06

Careers are journeys — and each stop is just as important as the next.

Meet Jason Hallman ’06, Ph.D., senior manager at the Collaborative Safety Research Center at Toyota Motors North America, and follow along as we explore how he got to his current role.

NEW - Strategic Plan Updates from Kevin Goebbert ’03

May 2023 Update Available
Under the direction of the President José Padilla and Executive Vice President and Provost Eric Johnson, Valparaiso University is embarking on a year-long strategic planning process to shape its future. The entire campus community is invited to join in this process that will make a lasting positive impact on the future of this great University.

Megan Bonta performs on violin at Carnegie Hall Feb. 24 2023

Guest Blog: Megan Muta ’13 Bonta

Meg, who serves as owner, operator, and instructor at SoundTide Music School in Portage, Indiana, details her experience preparing for and performing a solo violin program at Carnegie Hall on Feb. 24, 2023.

C.J. Clark ’98: A Call to Stony Lake

“My experience at Valpo created this kind of safe space for me to explore who I was, what I wanted to be, and God’s role in all of it ... I was encouraged to flourish by engaging in a process of trying things out, sometimes failing, always learning, critically reassessing, ideally growing, and ultimately returning to repeat the process.”

Julie Tajkowski ’99 Pelletier: Comfort in a Hug

“I have always had a desire to work with, teach, help, and learn from children. I was able to begin my journey and listen to others experiencing significant challenges during my senior year at Valpo when I began volunteering in a shelter for women and children. This experience reaffirmed my calling.”

Interim Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences Appointed

“As many of you may recall, Jon T. Kilpinen ’88, Ph.D., will finish his service as dean of the College of Arts and Sciences this summer. I would like to once again thank Jon for his incredible 16 years of devoted service to the College and to Valparaiso University. I am also taking this opportunity to announce that Gregg “Bagel” Johnson, Ph.D., professor of political science and international relations, will be stepping into the role of interim dean, effective July 18, 2022.”

Art-Psychology building under construction

Update: Fire at Art-Psychology Building

“As you know, Valparaiso University suffered a great loss this past Friday afternoon. The damage resulting from the fire that broke out in the Art-Psychology building is extensive. The Art-Psychology building was not just a building — buildings can be replaced; it was a piece of Valpo’s history and an incubator of the creative work of our students and faculty — in some cases, their life’s work.”

A Year Later: Reimagining Easter in the Chapel of the Resurrection

In August 2020, six months into the pandemic, Aimee Tomasek, associate professor of visual art, and Gretchen Buggeln, Duesenberg Professor of Christianity and the Arts, began a collaborative photography/oral history project, “Connected Congregations,” to document how Porter County congregations were adjusting to COVID-19.

Chapel of the Resurrection Now on National Register of Historic Places

In this special feature, Gretchen Buggeln, Duesenberg Chair in Christianity and the Arts, Christ College, shares her insights into the Chapel’s addition to the National Register of Historic Places and what that designation means for the beloved worship space and the entire campus.

Keys to a Successful Career in Business

Dick DiBlasio ’75 shares lessons he learned at Valpo that have carried him through a 45-year career in sales, marketing, and client services at the director level for leading firms like Nielsen in Chicago and the metropolitan New York area, as well as INMAR Inc.

Cameron Beisel ’18 is in The Market for Laughs

“You know how pancakes look delicious, but after you finish your plate the thought of any more makes you sick? That’s how comedy is when starting out. If you chase after it too aggressively you may burn yourself out and quit entirely. The key is to pace yourself so your passion can remain exactly that: your passion.”

Through Years That Come and Go

At 100 years old, Connie Bruegmann ’42 Felten Bretscher ’71 MALS serves as a guide for President Padilla, providing a glimpse into Valpo’s past as he looks toward the future.

Heather Kendzierski ’01 Terry Brings Stories to Life with GoodSam

“Parents think that a liberal education can be summed up as ‘you learn something but you learn nothing.’ I will challenge that: what you learn is how to be flexible ... to take something and go ‘I think that’s the path, let me go down there and see if there’s anything there for me’.”

Josh Messner ’02 Finds His Calling as a Communicator

“I’ve always been an empathetic person, but during my time at Valpo, I learned how to channel my natural curiosity about the world and care for people into engaging communications.”

Finding Fellowship: A Mentor Across the Atlantic

“In addition to doing meaningful, mission-driven work, I knew CAPS would give me the opportunity to walk through a professional experience and help me navigate what exactly I am looking for in my future career.”

Valpo Classmates’ Bond Aids Indianapolis Nonprofits

“Sharing stories that otherwise might not be told is an important contribution to our communities— doing so can help keep viewers informed about their neighborhoods, create change and help people feel more connected.”

Alumni Passions: Cindy Miller ’10 Stemple Gives Back

"Almost as soon as I was in remission, my husband and I looked for ways to give back within the hospital as a means of expressing our gratitude to all of those healthcare professionals who were instrumental in my treatment and subsequent recovery."

Follow the Beacon | Martha Stoeppelwerth ‘84 Van Buskirk

Martha’s decision to attend Valparaiso University felt like a calling. Though her family lived in Southern California and she had been accepted to UCLA, something led her to apply to Valpo anyway. “My mom was a teacher, and my dad was a pastor, so attending a private university halfway across the country didn’t seem likely.”

Now an author, speaker, and nonprofit writer living in Houston, Texas, Martha reflects on her time at Valpo: “My education and experiences supported my goals to become a better writer, give back, and encourage and lead others.

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Grounded in Faith | Gabby Unzicker ‘25

Gabby Unzicker ‘25, didn’t have a faith-based education in mind when choosing where to attend college but says that Valpo found her and has quickly become engrained in her life. She says, “There’s a lot of hope and encouragement knowing that I went from not feeling anything personal to my faith to feeling overwhelmingly surrounded and loved by the faith community I’ve begun to call my second home in just three years.” She continues, “I get to be constantly reminded of how important my work is, even in the grand scheme of this University. I know that God has great plans for me, and they are slowly but surely being revealed to me as I become more attentive to my reflections and intentional in my care.”

Read the Full Article>>

Follow the Beacon | Kimberly Dana ‘91

Stories have always been a powerful way to bring people together, offering new perspectives and fostering understanding. For Valparaiso University alumna, Kimberly Dana ‘91, storytelling is more than just a passion—it’s a lifelong mission. As an educator, literacy coach, and award-winning author, she has dedicated her career to supporting children as they navigate new languages, cultures, and identities.

Read the Full Article>>

Grounded in Faith | Allison DeMik ‘25

Allison DeMik wasn’t involved in many faith-based activities in her first semester at Valpo, leaving her feeling aimless. She says, “The moment I started attending church services, I felt like I found myself again. Living out my faith in such a real way gave me purpose. It was something to look forward to. It started my week off right when I went to Candlelight or Monday Morning Prayer and brought it to a close when I went to Friday Morning Prayer. Before I knew it, Candlelight was a non-negotiable part of my week. On the days when I was too sick or too busy to go, I was burnt out much earlier in the week and craving that intimate connection with God all the more the next week.”

Read the Full Article>>

Rin Curtis ’76 Seibert: A Legacy of Love

Rin Curtis ’76 Seibert was a staple at Valparaiso University for nearly 40 years, dedicating her career—and much of her life—to the students and recreational sports programs at Valpo. She served as director of recreational sports, associate director of athletics, and kinesiology professor during her time at the University, impacting generations of students, alumni, and community members. In early 2025, it was announced that the campus fitness center would be renamed the “Rin Seibert Fitness Center” in honor of Rin and her impact on so many.

Read the Full Article>>

Follow the Beacon | Roland Baumann ‘54

My journey with Valparaiso University began on a spring day in 1954, just weeks before graduation. At the time, the Korean War ceasefire had been negotiated, but the U.S. Army was still drafting individuals into service. My local draft board in Los Angeles had granted me a student deferment to complete my final year, but I knew that I would be entering the Army come August.

Read the Full Article>>

Grounded in Faith | Cam Haggett ‘28

Cam Haggett’s (they/them) faith is an important part of their life. Cam even hopes to go into ministry after graduation. Cam says, “My faith has shaped every aspect of who I am, from my relationships to my interests to my future career path. Without my faith, I would be a completely different person.” Cam continues, “My faith provides me with a framework through which I can view myself, my work, and my actions. It helps me make decisions and interpret the world around me.”

Read the Full Article>>

Follow the Beacon | John Yelkich ‘11

John Yelkich began studying at Valparaiso University in 1985. Valpo’s reputation as one of the best universities in the Midwest drew his interest, and he says he was lucky enough to be accepted. John says, “I came to Valpo knowing exactly what I wanted to do. I was going to study criminal justice, which required a sociology degree with a concentration in criminal justice.

Read the Full Article>>

Grounded in Faith | Natalya Reister ‘25

Natalya Reister is studying sociology and theology at Valpo, hoping to enter chaplaincy after graduation. She said she hopes that her sociology major will help her to understand the people she will support as a future chaplain, including herself. She says, “My faith has helped me reckon with the fact that we're broken people in a broken world. Knowing I come into spaces flawed, faith gives me hope and an ability to see the world with love and, in turn, accept the love of others. In terms of my identity, I think faith shapes the way I view others and interact with others, not as exchanges but as a community.”

Read the Full Article>>

Follow the Beacon | Kim Wagner ‘84 Barnett and Thomas Barnett ‘84

Kim and Thomas Barnett were destined for one another. They were both expected to attend Depauw University before landing at Valpo. Thomas, a journalism major and business minor, and Kim, a nursing major, first crossed paths at the first icebreaker session during their freshman year.

Read the Full Article>>

Love and Legacy, Everlasting

Perhaps one of the longest-standing Valpo traditions is that of the Student ‘Kissing’ Bridge. The bridge dates back to the mid to late 1800s and served as a safe walkway for students, linking ‘old campus’ to student housing and connecting to a passageway leading to Sager's Lake, a former recreational park. As the lore goes, couples would go to the bridge to ‘test their love.’ If the couple kissed as the Pennsylvania Railroad coal trains rolled by and were still kissing as it passed, it was said that their love would be everlasting.

This is the story of how that bridge was brought back to campus.

Read the Full Article>>

Grounded in Faith | Eli Conklin ‘27

Eli Conklin grew up in faith communities his entire life. He says choosing Valpo was important because he could cultivate his faith even more. He says, “Attending a faith-based university was important to me because I knew there would be a culture where faith is accepted. Attending Valpo doesn’t mean that everyone is a Christian, but there is a much more positive attitude towards faith in general, which creates a place where my faith can be cultivated.”

Read the Full Article>>

GoBabyGo | The Joy of Mobility

GoBabyGo launched at Valparaiso University in early 2024 with the goal of helping children with disabilities gain the ability to navigate their surroundings and explore the world around them. The project began as a spark of hope at the University of Delaware and has since grown into a worldwide movement of compassion and innovation. Its mission is simple yet profound: to enhance mobility and improve the quality of life for children who face challenges in their early developmental years. Through this project, children can access solutions that empower them to explore their world with newfound freedom and joy.

Read the Full Article>>

Follow the Beacon | Bob Wichlinski ‘82, ‘13 MALS

Bob Wichlinski is a busy man. He is a husband, father, brand-new grandfather, and a self-described serial entrepreneur. He says, “I love breathing life into dreams and creating something from ashes.” Not only is Bob a current faculty member in Valpo’s computer science department, but he is also a singer-songwriter, the first male ever elected to the Valparaiso University Guild board (over 90 years in the making!), Gubernatorial appointee to the Indiana Executive Council on CyberSecurity, a USGA member of more than 35 years, Treasurer of the Porter County 4-H Council, Vice-President of Porter County Farm Bureau, a volunteer coordinator at the Indiana Dunes National Park, Valparaiso University Marshall, and even a competitive barbecuer!

Read the Full Article>>

Grounded in Faith | Kurt Brown ‘25

Kurt Brown’s identity is deeply rooted in his faith, so it was important to him to attend a faith-based institution like Valpo. He says, “My faith defines who I am as an individual. My identity as a redeemed child of God is the basis for who I am and how I live my life. It is the first and most important thing about me. I wanted to go to an environment where faith is valued and strengthened. Since I think it is the most important thing, attending a university where faith is seen as something ancillary at best would be odd.” Brown continues, “My faith has played an important role in keeping me steady. Sometimes, it can be hard to be motivated and discern one’s purpose in the world. With my faith at the core of my life, I have something constant to refer back to.”

Read the Full Article>>

Welcome to the Team Shaun Sahlhoff

Shaun Sahlhoff has joined Valparaiso University as the Executive Director of External Relations, where he will have the opportunity to engage in community outreach to ultimately help align external initiatives with the goals of the University. Of his new role, Sahlhoff says, “My role centers on building and maintaining relationships that support the University's mission and objectives. Every day, I’ll collaborate with government officials, community organizations, and corporate partners to identify opportunities for strategic cooperation.”

Read the Full Article>>

Grounded in Faith | Isabel Gauss ‘26

For Isabel Gauss, faith is the foundation on which she built her life. “Faith is also the comfort when I need comfort, and the strength when I need strength, and someone to celebrate with me when I need that. When everything is turned back to that and focused on that, then whatever's going on in the world doesn't seem as big or scary as it may be without it.” She adds that coming to Valpo has allowed her to grow even more in her faith, serve in the church, and be around other Christians.

Read the Full Article>>

Follow the Beacon | Aaron Willis '14

Growing up in South Bend, Indiana, Aaron Willis ’14 never anticipated that seven students from his graduating class would attend Valparaiso University. Willis says, “After taking the PSAT my sophomore and junior year of high school, I started to see a lot of information about Valpo and looked into their Track program. A classmate’s father told me that, based on my grades, I likely wouldn’t get in.” He continues, “I took that as a challenge right then and there and decided that I would be accepted to Valpo and graduate from the University. And I did.”

Read the Full Article>>

Follow the Beacon | Barbara Schwarz ‘76

Nearly 50 years ago, when Barbara Schwarz ‘76 was a student at Valparaiso University, she discovered that her family’s connection to the University ran much deeper than she realized. She explains, “About 50 years ago was the 50th anniversary of Valpo becoming a Lutheran institution. I was a student at Valpo then, so my grandmother contacted me to tell me she and my grandfather had donated funds towards that effort and are listed as founders of the University!”

Read the Full Article>>

Literary Luminaries Spotlight | Jim Iddins ‘11 MALS

Jim Iddins ‘11 MALS is a two-time published author and high-school teacher whose latest book, The One That Went Away, was published in November 2023. It is a fictionalized account of his personal experiences as a senior in high school. “The One That Went Away deals with an experience that I had during my senior year of high school of being sent away to a behavior modification program.” Iddins explains, “I was there for 15 months in the mountains of Montana in one of those troubled teen programs. These programs are starting to get more notice with people like Paris Hilton coming forward to give testimony. So, this is my testimony.”

Read the Full Article>>

Follow the Beacon | Alexandria Lagesse ‘12, ‘15 M.S.

Alexandria Lagesse ‘12, ‘15 M.S. knew that coming to Valpo would give her the opportunity to receive a fantastic education while making an impact on and off the field. At the time, she was being recruited to play softball and was excited about the potential of the team and the vision that was shared with her. She says, “When I went on my visit, I think everybody in my incoming class was there. I really connected with them. I loved the vision that was being talked about and being lived by the current team. I was drawn to that.”

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Shining Bright in Every Direction: Matthew Yee ’24 Named 2024 Tau Beta Pi Laureate

Valpo is proud to announce that Matthew Yee ’24 has been recognized as a 2024 Tau Beta Pi Laureate, a prestigious honor that highlights his exceptional accomplishments in engineering and beyond. For Matthew, the Tau Beta Pi Laureate designation is not just a recognition of his engineering achievements, but a celebration of the comprehensive education he received at Valparaiso University.

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Follow the Beacon | Andrew Benson ‘21

Andrew’s advice to other young leaders is simple. “Try to find something you're interested in, but also make sure you're actually buying into it and giving your best effort. Your time at Valpo is short. Ultimately, you're there for probably four years, so make sure you're taking time to be present. It goes by a lot faster than you think.”

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President Padilla and Five Valpo Alumni Named Most Influential Business Leaders in Indiana

Each year, IBJ Media names its list of the Indiana 250, a list of the state’s most influential and impactful leaders in business, philanthropy, the arts, government, and not-for-profits. These men and women are making a difference locally, regionally, and across the state. Valparaiso University proudly celebrates the alumni and friends featured in this year's list. They make us all #ProudToBeValpo!

Follow the Beacon | Antuane Thompson '20

Antuane Thompson, ’20, had plenty of options regarding his higher education plans. He was accepted to multiple universities while participating in a college degree path program at his high school. Thompson visited several of these campuses but says Valpo had something special he was looking for.

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Staff Spotlight | Janet Lajcin

My desk is in the lobby of the Career and Alumni Network, so I am the first person you see when you come into our office. I greet our visitors and answer whatever questions they have. I am the main scheduler for the career advising appointments for our students and alumni with our staff members. I also provide administrative support to the office for our projects and events.

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Follow the Beacon | Gideon Litherland ’12

Gideon Litherland’s impact on the lives of others epitomizes what it means to be a Beacon. His foundation of advocating for others began here at Valpo and continues on, even in the face of uncertainty, inspiring others to lead and illuminate the path toward a brighter, more compassionate world.

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Staff Spotlight | Luke Whiteman

My day-to-day can look drastically different depending on what's going on! Some of the things I frequently do are meet with students and alumni on a variety of career-related topics (resume and/or cover letter review and writing, LinkedIn creation and/or review, major and minor exploration, mock interviews, job and internship search, or even just "what do I want to do with my life?" advising).

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Follow The Beacon | Chip Pettit '96

When Chip Pettit ’96 chose to attend and play baseball for Valparaiso University, he wasn’t sure yet where his academic pursuits would take him. “I was ‘undecided’ on a major well into the fall semester of my sophomore year.” Pettit says, “I remember my advisor telling me that I had to pick a major and I still didn’t know what I wanted to do..."

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Follow the Beacon | Krystal Peña '21

When Krystal Peña ‘21 was deciding which college to attend after high school, she knew she wanted to be far enough away from her home in Chicago to feel independent, yet close enough to home to get back quickly if necessary. As a first-generation student, Peña didn’t have the experiences of her family to fall back on.

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Staff Spotlight | Christine Radtke

Last week, the Office of Advancement welcomed a brand-new team member! Christine Radtke joins Valparaiso University as the newly appointed Assistant Vice President of Development. Radtke comes to Valpo with a deep fundraising and higher education background and explains how the mission inspired her to pursue a career here.

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Follow the Beacon | Jeanette Gray ’03, ’09 M.Ed.

If you spend any amount of time with Jeanette Gray ’03, ’09 M.Ed., you’ll walk away feeling inspired to dream bigger than you thought imaginable and ready to chase after your lifelong goals.

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Follow the Beacon | Terry Trautman '60

For Terry Trautman ’60, the first time he ever set foot on the Valparaiso University campus was the first day of his freshman year.

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Follow the Beacon: Jason Hallman ’06

Careers are journeys — and each stop is just as important as the next.

Meet Jason Hallman ’06, Ph.D., senior manager at the Collaborative Safety Research Center at Toyota Motors North America, and follow along as we explore how he got to his current role.

NEW - Strategic Plan Updates from Kevin Goebbert ’03

May 2023 Update Available
Under the direction of the President José Padilla and Executive Vice President and Provost Eric Johnson, Valparaiso University is embarking on a year-long strategic planning process to shape its future. The entire campus community is invited to join in this process that will make a lasting positive impact on the future of this great University.

Guest Blog: Megan Muta ’13 Bonta

Meg, who serves as owner, operator, and instructor at SoundTide Music School in Portage, Indiana, details her experience preparing for and performing a solo violin program at Carnegie Hall on Feb. 24, 2023.

C.J. Clark ’98: A Call to Stony Lake

“My experience at Valpo created this kind of safe space for me to explore who I was, what I wanted to be, and God’s role in all of it ... I was encouraged to flourish by engaging in a process of trying things out, sometimes failing, always learning, critically reassessing, ideally growing, and ultimately returning to repeat the process.”

Julie Tajkowski ’99 Pelletier: Comfort in a Hug

“I have always had a desire to work with, teach, help, and learn from children. I was able to begin my journey and listen to others experiencing significant challenges during my senior year at Valpo when I began volunteering in a shelter for women and children. This experience reaffirmed my calling.”

Interim Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences Appointed

“As many of you may recall, Jon T. Kilpinen ’88, Ph.D., will finish his service as dean of the College of Arts and Sciences this summer. I would like to once again thank Jon for his incredible 16 years of devoted service to the College and to Valparaiso University. I am also taking this opportunity to announce that Gregg “Bagel” Johnson, Ph.D., professor of political science and international relations, will be stepping into the role of interim dean, effective July 18, 2022.”

Update: Fire at Art-Psychology Building

“As you know, Valparaiso University suffered a great loss this past Friday afternoon. The damage resulting from the fire that broke out in the Art-Psychology building is extensive. The Art-Psychology building was not just a building — buildings can be replaced; it was a piece of Valpo’s history and an incubator of the creative work of our students and faculty — in some cases, their life’s work.”

A Year Later: Reimagining Easter in the Chapel of the Resurrection

In August 2020, six months into the pandemic, Aimee Tomasek, associate professor of visual art, and Gretchen Buggeln, Duesenberg Professor of Christianity and the Arts, began a collaborative photography/oral history project, “Connected Congregations,” to document how Porter County congregations were adjusting to COVID-19.

Chapel of the Resurrection Now on National Register of Historic Places

In this special feature, Gretchen Buggeln, Duesenberg Chair in Christianity and the Arts, Christ College, shares her insights into the Chapel’s addition to the National Register of Historic Places and what that designation means for the beloved worship space and the entire campus.

Keys to a Successful Career in Business

Dick DiBlasio ’75 shares lessons he learned at Valpo that have carried him through a 45-year career in sales, marketing, and client services at the director level for leading firms like Nielsen in Chicago and the metropolitan New York area, as well as INMAR Inc.

Cameron Beisel ’18 is in The Market for Laughs

“You know how pancakes look delicious, but after you finish your plate the thought of any more makes you sick? That’s how comedy is when starting out. If you chase after it too aggressively you may burn yourself out and quit entirely. The key is to pace yourself so your passion can remain exactly that: your passion.”

Through Years That Come and Go

At 100 years old, Connie Bruegmann ’42 Felten Bretscher ’71 MALS serves as a guide for President Padilla, providing a glimpse into Valpo’s past as he looks toward the future.

Heather Kendzierski ’01 Terry Brings Stories to Life with GoodSam

“Parents think that a liberal education can be summed up as ‘you learn something but you learn nothing.’ I will challenge that: what you learn is how to be flexible ... to take something and go ‘I think that’s the path, let me go down there and see if there’s anything there for me’.”

Josh Messner ’02 Finds His Calling as a Communicator

“I’ve always been an empathetic person, but during my time at Valpo, I learned how to channel my natural curiosity about the world and care for people into engaging communications.”

Finding Fellowship: A Mentor Across the Atlantic

“In addition to doing meaningful, mission-driven work, I knew CAPS would give me the opportunity to walk through a professional experience and help me navigate what exactly I am looking for in my future career.”

Valpo Classmates’ Bond Aids Indianapolis Nonprofits

“Sharing stories that otherwise might not be told is an important contribution to our communities— doing so can help keep viewers informed about their neighborhoods, create change and help people feel more connected.”

Alumni Passions: Cindy Miller ’10 Stemple Gives Back

"Almost as soon as I was in remission, my husband and I looked for ways to give back within the hospital as a means of expressing our gratitude to all of those healthcare professionals who were instrumental in my treatment and subsequent recovery."

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