A high school track star from Westampton, N.J., Stefon David ’17 came to Valpo with high hopes and big dreams four years ago, with little foundation of what to expect. A first-generation student, he wasn’t familiar with the school, or the region, or even Indiana. Now a recent graduate, his résumé bursts with campus involvement, […]
Category: Student Spotlight
Family Legacy: Olivia Janke ’20 Blazes Her Own Path
Comfort. Opportunity. Growth. These are a few of Olivia’s words for Valpo. A second-generation Valpo student, Olivia was more than a little familiar with the University prior to her decision to attend, but what she didn’t fully appreciate was her ability to do it all at Valpo — premier academics, Division I athletics, Lutheran Leaders, […]
Promoting Equality: Valpo Faculty Receive Martin Luther King Jr. Award
Since 1995, Valparaiso University has presented its Martin Luther King Jr. Award to individuals and groups within the Valpo community who have made significant and lasting contributions to creating an environment where diversity is honored and respected on campus and beyond. During the annual MLK Celebration Convocation on Jan. 15, the 2018 Martin Luther King […]
Always a Champion: Teacher by Day, Student-Athlete by Night
When each player on the Valparaiso University women’s basketball team was asked to share a favorite moment of the season at a recent team meeting, senior captain Dani Franklin ‘18 welled up with tears. These were tears of joy from Dani, who told a story that combines two groups of people who mean the world […]
Deeply Committed: Eric Smith ’17 Transforms Community Through Education
Just months after graduation, Eric finds himself back in the classroom, but this time at the front, teaching seventh grade English at Tinley Prep, an all-boys school in Indianapolis. Valpo’s culture of service inspired Eric to take a step back and work in the community as part of the Teach for America program. It is […]
Leadership, Community, and Faith
Service. Leadership. Vocation. For Caleb Rollins ’15, these words defined his experience at Valpo and created his path to philanthropic work as development manager for Lutheran Services in America. Caleb was initially drawn to Valpo for its “home away from home” community, but he says the financial support and the promises of the Christ College […]
Transforming Lives: Valpo Alumna Pursues Unique Calling
Dawn Trautman ’94 is a woman of impact among her friends, within her community of faith, and throughout her professional world. Equipped with a keen understanding of her purpose, Dawn leads a life of intention. Focusing her time and energy on the areas in which she excels and can be of influence, she never strays […]
Valparaiso University and Partners Receive $1.58M Grant to Advance STEM Education in Indiana
The Indiana Commission for Higher Education awarded $1,582,584 to Valparaiso University, Ball State University, Indiana University–Purdue University Indianapolis and Purdue University, the institutions that comprise the Hoosier STEM Academy. “We are grateful to the Indiana Commission for Higher Education for their commitment to STEM education,” said Mark L. Biermann, Ph.D., provost and executive vice president […]
Students Learn About International Humanitarian Law With New Red Cross Club
The earth shakes as another bomb hits the city. The explosion sends shards of glass and brick flying into the streets. Civilians run for cover. In the midst of the chaos, Red Cross aid workers quickly evacuate the wounded from the pandemonium. This may sound like war, but in fact, it is only a simulation. […]
Whirlwind Ascent
Ginger Zuidgeest ’02 wakes up at 4 a.m. each weekday with resolve. “Since Valpo, I’ve been on this constant mission,” she said. “One of my best friends calls me ‘The Explainer,’ and it’s true. When you’re a scientist on television, you’re an explainer. You have to take science and make it simple, while also teaching […]