The Class of 2026 chose as its theme 2 Corinthians 4:5-7: “For what we preach is not ourselves, but Jesus Christ as Lord, and ourselves as your servants for Jesus’ sake… But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us.”

President Rich Gurgel highlighted that theme in his remarks, pointing to Jesus’ promise that repentance and forgiveness of sins would be preached in his name to all nations. 

A reading from Joshua 1 encouraged the graduates to “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”

The gymnasium was filled to capacity with family, friends, faculty and staff as graduates processed in academic regalia. The service included hymns, the Lord’s Prayer and the Aaronic blessing.

Martin Luther College graduates turn their tassels from right to left during the 2026 commencement ceremony Saturday in the Luther Student Center gymnasium in New Ulm. (Photo by Amy Zents)

43 pre-seminary students earned degrees with a focus on biblical languages, 93 received degrees in education, staff ministry or parish music, and another 30 were awarded master’s degrees. 

Many undergraduates completed double majors in early childhood, elementary and middle/secondary education.

Non-traditional and master’s students formed a notable part of the class. Kristin Hadenfeldt, 49, of Eau Claire, Wisconsin, received a Master of Science in Educational Administration with an early childhood director emphasis.

“It was a long process but the instructors were also helpful,” Hadenfeldt said. “It was just a very good experience for me.”

Hadenfeldt, who lived in the dorms during her undergraduate years at MLC, completed the master’s degree online. It took her almost seven years while teaching third grade and raising two children now in college.

Kristin Hadenfeldt of Eau Claire, Wisconsin, receives her diploma for Master of Science in Educational Administration with an early childhood director emphasis. Hadenfeldt completed the degree online over nearly seven years while teaching third grade and raising two children now in college. (Photo by Amy Zents)

Faith J. Blauert of North Freedom earned a Bachelor of Educational Studies. She completed her coursework in December but returned for the ceremony.

Several students received seminary certifications qualifying them for Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary in Mequon, Wisconsin, including Gregory A. Foote of Appleton.

Tena L. Schmidt of New Ulm, who completed the staff ministry certification program, is moving to the Milwaukee area to serve in residential life at Wisconsin Lutheran High School.

Professor Daniel N. Balge, who teaches ancient Greek and Latin and serves as academic dean of the pre-seminary program, and his wife Beth, an adjunct piano instructor and music faculty member, watched their son Thomas Balge graduate.

“He’s going on to the seminary in Mequon,” Professor Balge said.

Faith J. Blauert of North Freedom poses after receiving her Bachelor of Educational Studies during Martin Luther College’s 2026 commencement Saturday in New Ulm. (Photo by Amy Zents)

Other master’s graduates recognized included Eric Dorn, Gina Grove, Mark Holcomb, Hannah Cook, Jeanne Cook, Terri Elder, David Endorf, Michelle Goens, Elizabeth Henke, Steven Hennig, Ryan Jaeger, Elizabeth Laska, Emily Platzer, Kyle Swogger, Michael Wilde, Hannah Zabel, Samuel Evans, Evan Korthals, David Leonard, Sherri Lueck, Hannah Mueller, Taylor Nielsen, Dana Raasch, Margaret Selesky, Shawna Tech, Michelle Kreuziger, Ashley McGuire, Kirsten Schwerin and Stephanie Spevacek.

Dozens of graduates will begin calls as teachers or staff ministers in WELS schools and congregations. About 30 will continue pastoral preparation at Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary.

Faculty and staff with significant service were honored. 

Those completing a combined 115 years at MLC included retiring professors Brian Dose, after 31 years, and Lawrence Olson after 33 years directing the staff ministry program.

Others recognized were Dave Biedenbender, Aaron Bush, Mark Maurice, Tim Rambow, and Joel Thomford.

Instructor Mike Plocher, who teaches instructional technology, reflected on the day: “Just taking it all in. Lots of smiles. It was a good time.”

The service ended with the presentation of the graduating class and a recessional.