Orchesis Dance Showcase
2025-05-04 14:00 - 15:30 (America/Chicago) | Center for the Arts, 121 (CFA Studio 1)
Please join Orchesis Dance Club for this free event in CFA Studio 1! We will be performing all of our dance pieces from this year, featuring student and faculty choreography in a variety of styles from hip hop to modern.

Decorah Iowa Scholastic Mountain Bike Race Team Practice
2025-05-05 17:30 - 19:30, 2025-05-07 17:30 - 19:30 | Decorah Parks & Recreation parking lot and East Lawn
In coordination with Decorah Parks & Recreation, the local youth bicycle team will be using the outdoor swimming pool parking lot and the East Lawn green space of Luther College. Please take care when driving through the parking lot area during practice times.

Emeriti Colloquium: Historical Gem in the Mediterranean
2025-05-08 15:00 - 16:30 | Baker Commons
Presenter: Uwe Rudolph

The Sweet Science of Bruising
2025-05-08 19:30 - 21:30, 2025-05-09 19:30 - 21:30, 2025-05-10 19:30 - 21:30 | Center for the Arts, Jewel Theatre
London, 1869. Four very different Victorian women are drawn into the dark underground world of female boxing by the eccentric Professor Sharp. Controlled by men and constrained by corsets, each finds an unexpected freedom in the boxing ring.
As their lives begin to intertwine, we travel with them through the world of the privileged class, a Yorkshire coal mine, and the back alleys of London, where the women fight inequality as well as each other. But with the final showdown approaching, only one can become the Lady Boxing Champion of the World…
Joy Wilkinson’s play The Sweet Science of Bruising is an epic tale of passion, politics and pugilism, directed by Kristen Underwood.
Content Advisory: The Sweet Science of Bruising depicts violence and other material that some may find disturbing.
Get tickets

Spring Opera: Tour de Farce
2025-05-09 19:30 - 21:30 | Center for Faith and Life, Main Hall
Luther College Opera Theatre presents “Tour de Farce,” featuring scenes from Mozart’s Die Zauberflöte (Magic Flute) and Don Giovanni. An homage to early touring opera companies in the United States, with two different scenarios of what can go wrong when attempting to take opera ‘on the road!’

Directed by Andrew Whitfield, music directed by Nicholas Shaneyfelt. With the Luther College Chamber Orchestra, under the direction of Daniel Baldwin. In the CFL Main Hall at 7:30 p.m.

Tickets are available through the Luther College Ticket Office.
Buy Your Tickets Here

DECORIDE Spring 2025 Edition
2025-05-10 09:00 - 14:00 | Luther College Bell for starting at 9 a.m. and Pulpit Rock Brewing Company
DECORIDE is a welcoming bike tour for all, supporting the Decorah Community Free Clinic. Hosted by Luther College and the Decorah community, it unites riders for a great cause. Enjoy an 11-mile scenic ride on Trout Run Trail with refreshing stops along the way. More than a ride, it’s a movement for positive change. Join us and make a difference!
learn more and register
Sponsored by Luther College, Center for Sustainable Communities, Pulpit Rock Brewing Company, Landing Market, and Decorah Area Chamber of Commerce.

Spring Art Sale
2025-05-10 10:00 - 14:00 | The Landing, Decorah
The Landing Market and Luther Art Program are hosting this Spring Art Sale featuring the work of Luther College students.

Luther Symphonic Band Concert at Phelps Park
2025-05-10 13:00 - 14:30 | Phelps Park, Decorah
The Luther College Symphonic Band will perform a concert at Phelps Park in Decorah at 1 p.m. on Saturday, May 10. All are welcome!
Sponsored by Decorah Public Library

A Cappella Serenade at The Landing
2025-05-11 11:00 - 12:00 | The Landing, Decorah
On this Mother’s Day, treat your mom or someone like a mom to breakfast or lunch from Justin’s, smoothies or bowls from Root 43, coffee and sweet treats from The Buzz and Tandem, all while enjoying uplifting music performed by a cappella groups from Luther College. The groups – Undeclared, Beautiful Mess, and Uptempo! will perform contemporary hits along with classics from various genres. Best yet, this serenade is free!

Luther Ringers Concert
2025-05-11 15:00 - 16:00 | Jenson-Noble Hall of Music, Noble Recital Hall
The Luther College Ringers will perform a concert in the Noble Recital Hall at 3 p.m..

2025 Norse Awards
2025-05-13 19:00 - 21:00 | Center for Faith and Life, Main Hall
Join us for the evening as we celebrate Luther Athletics and award our 2025 Norse Award recipients!

Bicentennial Alumni Gathering: "200 Years of Norway in North America"
2025-05-15 14:45 - 18:30
You are cordially invited to a special alumni event commemorating the 200th anniversary of Norwegian immigration to North America, a pivotal moment in our shared history. Join us as we celebrate “200 Years of Norway in North America”.
Date: Thursday, May 15, 2025
Time: Registration will open at 2:45 p.m. (14:45)
Doors will close at 3:30 p.m. (15:30)
Program begins at 4:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. (16:00 – 18:30)
Location: Fanehallen, Akershus Festning, Oslo, Norway
purchase a ticket
In 1825, the Restauration set sail, carrying 52 Norwegians to new lives across the Atlantic. This journey initiated a wave of immigration, with over a third of Norway’s population eventually making the voyage. Today, nearly 5 million North Americans proudly claim Norwegian heritage, a testament to the enduring ties between our continents.
In partnership with the Norway-America Association (NORAM) and the Norwegian Sister Colleges (Augsburg University, Augustana University, Concordia College, Luther College, Pacific Lutheran University, and St. Olaf College), this bicentennial celebration will honor a shared legacy and reunite alumni. We are delighted to announce that His Majesty the King will be in attendance, the former Minister of Foreign Affairs and Defense Ine Eriksen Søreide will deliver the keynote address, and we will feature a special musical performance to enhance our celebration. President emerita Jenifer K. Ward will be in attendance representing Luther College at the event.
Additional Details, Registration and Cost:
Ticket includes food and drinks (hours d’eouvres)
The cost to attend this event is NOK 300.
Dress code: Business attire
Space is limited, so we encourage you to register as soon as possible. The RSVP deadline is April 4, but spots may fill up before then.
Register to attend
Sponsored by Luther College, St. Olaf College, Augsburg College, Augustana College, Concordia College and NORAM

Ultra Mega Mega
2025-05-16 18:00 - 21:00, 2025-12-12 18:00 - 21:00 | Center for the Arts
Join us for this open gala throughout the entire CFA featuring the semester coursework and final projects by students across all creative arts from Art, Dance, Theatre, Musical Theatre, and Visual Communication.

Friday Showcase Concert with Nordic Choir and Concert Band
2025-05-23 19:30 - 21:30 | Center for Faith and Life, Main Hall
The Friday Showcase Concert featuring Nordic Choir and Concert Band will take place in the Center for Faith and Life Main Hall at 7:30 p.m..
Watch the livestream on the Music Department YouTube Channel

Saturday Showcase Concert with Symphony Orchestra and Jazz Orchestra
2025-05-24 13:30 - 15:30 | Center for Faith and Life, Main Hall
The Saturday Showcase Concert with Symphony Orchestra and Jazz Orchestra will take place in the Center for Faith and Life main hall at 1:30 p.m..
Watch the livestream on the Music Department YouTube Channel

Community Forum: Improving Employee and Family Health
2025-05-28 11:00 - 13:00 | Dahl Centennial Union, Peace Dining Room
Join Decorah Community Leaders and the UI College of Public Health for a Community-Wide Forum: Improving Employee and Family Health.
Wednesday, May 28, 2025
11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Luther College
Dahl Centennial Union, Peace Dining Room 2nd floor
525 Luther Dr. Decorah, IA 52101
There is no charge to attend the forum.
Lunch is included.
Register to attend

Who should attend:
Any area employer or community organization leader interested in having a healthy and productive workforce.
What will be discussed:
Resources for employers to improve health and wellness for workers and their families in the areas of:

mental health: resources for employees and their families.
older adult care: resources for employees caring for older family members, and dementia friendly business trainings.

The forum will feature panelists:
Krista Vanden Brink, Administrator, Winneshiek County Public Health
Kelly Kuennen, Family Caregiver Specialist, NEI3A
Ryan Carnahan, Professor, Epidemiology, UI College of Public Health
Ronald Hougen, Psychologist and Chair, Behavioral Health, WinnMed
Jonathan Platt, Assistant Professor, Epidemiology, UI College of Public Health
A question and answer session and small group discussion will follow the panel.
Co-sponsored by: Decorah Area Chamber of Commerce, Winneshiek Public Health, WinnMed, and Northeast Iowa Area Agency on Aging

Town Hall with U.S. Rep. Ashley Hinson
2025-05-28 14:00 - 15:00 | Center for Faith and Life, Main Hall
Representative Ashley Hinson is conducting a town hall open to the general public on Wednesday, May 28, at 2–3 p.m. in the Center for Faith and Life.

Juneteenth Lunch & Learn
2025-06-11 12:00 - 13:00 | Dahl Centennial Union, Mott Room
The Center for Intercultural Engagement and Support (CIES) hosts this lunch & learn about the Juneteenth holiday. Bring your lunch and join us in the Mott Room, Noon- 1 p.m. on Wednesday, June 11 for a showing of the documentary, Juneteenth: Faith and Freedom from PBS.

Tennis Camp
2025-06-12 08:00 - 2025-06-15 17:00 | Luther College
learn more

ACT Testing
2025-06-14 08:00 - 14:00, 2025-07-12 08:00 - 14:00, 2025-09-06 08:00 - 14:00, 2025-10-18 08:00 - 14:00, 2025-12-13 08:00 - 14:00, 2026-02-14 08:00 - 14:00, 2026-04-11 08:00 - 14:00 | Olin Building
ACT testing is scheduled on the Luther campus.
Register for ACT testing

Dorian Middle School Summer Camp
2025-06-15 - 2025-06-21 | Luther College
Dorian Middle School Summer Camp will take place from June 15–21.

Middle School Dorian Summer Camp
2025-06-15 08:00 - 2025-06-21 17:00 | Luther College Campus

Juneteenth Cultural Excursion with CIES
2025-06-21 09:00 - 18:00
To commemorate Juneteenth, the Center for Intercultural Engagement and Support (CIES) is hosting a day trip on Saturday, June 21 to Waterloo, IA. We will go to the African American Cultural and Historical Museum, lunch at Rodney’s Kitchen, and attend Waterloo’s Juneteenth Festival. The trip will depart from Dahl Centennial Union at 9 a.m., returning at 6 p.m. The cost is $10 per person which includes transportation, museum admission, and lunch.
For any questions, email cies@luther.edu.
Sign up for the Juneteenth Excursion with CIES

Dorian Middle School Small Ensemble Grand Concert
2025-06-21 13:00 - 14:00 | Center for Faith and Life, Main Hall
The Dorian Middle School Small Ensembles will perform a concert in the Center for Faith and Life at 1:00 p.m..
Watch the livestream on the Music Department YouTube Channel

Dorian Middle School Large Ensemble Grand Concert
2025-06-21 14:30 - 16:00 | Center for Faith and Life, Main Hall
The Dorian Middle School Large Ensembles will perform their Grand Concert in the Center for Faith and Life at 2:30 p.m..
Watch the livestream on the Music Department YouTube Channel

Dorian High School Summer Camp
2025-06-22 - 2025-06-28 | Luther College
Dorian High School Summer Camp will take place from June 22–28.

High School Dorian Summer Camp
2025-06-22 08:00 - 2025-06-28 17:00 | Luther College Campus

Wrestling Big Man Camp
2025-06-25 08:00 - 2025-06-29 17:00 | Luther College

CIES Pride Month Lunch and Learn June 25
2025-06-25 12:00 - 13:00 | Dahl Centennial Union, Nobel Room
Join the Center for Intercultural Engagement and Support (CIES) for a showing of “Screaming Queens,” on Wednesday, June 25, in the Nobel Room. This documentary from KQED Arts is about the drag queens who fought back at a Compton cafeteria in 1966 and highlights an important part of Trans and Queer history. The lunch and learn goes from noon–1 p.m., and attendees should bring their own lunch. Contact cies@luther.edu with any questions.

Dorian High School Small Ensemble Grand Concert
2025-06-28 13:00 - 14:00 | Center for Faith and Life, Main Hall
The Dorian High School Small Ensemble Grand Concert will occur in the Center for Faith and Life at 1:00 p.m..
Watch the livestream on the Music Department YouTube Channel

Dorian High School Large Ensemble Grand Concert
2025-06-28 14:30 - 16:00 | Center for Faith and Life, Main Hall
The Dorian High School Large Ensembles will perform their Grand Concert in the Center for Faith and Life at 2:30 p.m..
Watch the livestream on the Music Department YouTube Channel

Wrestling Team Camp 1 (Boys)
2025-07-09 08:00 - 2025-07-12 17:00 | Luther College

Wrestling Team Camp (Girls)
2025-07-15 08:00 - 2025-07-17 17:00 | Luther College

Ustav Trip to Rochester with CIES
2025-07-19 10:30 - 20:00 | Meet in Front of Dahl Centennial Union
The Center for Intercultural Engagement and Support (CIES) invites you to experience Utsav: Festival of Colors, a vibrant celebration of the rich cultural heritage of the Asian Indian community, on Saturday, July 19, in Rochester. Enjoy delicious food, captivating dance performances, and mesmerizing music; join the color throw; and explore an array of products available for browsing.
After departing from the Dahl Centennial Union at 10:30 a.m., we will enjoy lunch at an Indian restaurant, spend a few hours at the Apache Mall, and end the afternoon at the Utsav festival. We expect to return to campus at 8 p.m. The cost is $5, which covers the event ticket, lunch, and transportation.
Please RSVP for the trip through this form; pay the ticket cost at the CIES office. If you have any questions, contact cies@luther.edu.

Wrestling Team Camp 2 (Boys)
2025-07-20 08:00 - 2025-07-23 17:00 | Luther College

Soccer Instructional Camp
2025-07-21 08:00 - 2025-07-24 17:00 | Luther College

Soccer Mini Camp
2025-07-21 08:00 - 2025-07-24 17:00 | Luther College

Book Signing with Dave Ellingson '69
2025-07-25 09:00 - 10:30 | Dahl Centennial Union, Book Shop
The Book Shop will host Luther alum David Ellingson (’69) for a book signing of Paddle Pilgrim: Kayaking the Fjords of Norway.

Luther Norwegian Meatball Dinner
2025-07-25 16:00 - 19:00 | Dahl Centennial Union, Cafeteria
Menu:
Norwegian Meatballs with Nutmeg Gravy
Mashed Potatoes
Sautéed Green Beans and Carrots
Luther Dinner Rolls with Whipped Butter
Salad Bar
Rommegrot Bars
Tickets and Walk-In Purchases Available
Adults: $15 per person
Kids, 6-10: $8 per person
RESERVE YOUR MEAL TICKETS

Decorah-area NAA Golf Outing
2025-08-11 10:00 - 16:00 | Oneota Golf and Country Club
Join fellow Norse alumni, parents, coaches, and friends for a day of golf!
4-person Best Shot tournament
$125 per player / $500 per team
Entry fee includes green fees and riding cart, free range balls, team and hole prizes, and lunch (provided during play)
Final Reception, Hole Prizes, and Swag Gifts around 4 p.m.
Become a sponsor
Register Today!

Lifelong Learner Seminar: The Bach Cantatas II
2025-09-03 09:00 - 12:00, 2025-09-10 09:00 - 12:00, 2025-09-17 09:00 - 12:00, 2025-09-24 09:00 - 12:00 | Loyalty Hall, Board Room
The Lifelong Learner Seminars offer an opportunity for local alumni and friends, and area residents to enjoy academic programming at Luther College and engage in meaningful, scholarly dialogue in a college setting.
The four-week sessions are held Wednesdays from 9 a.m.–noon in Loyalty Hall on the Luther College campus.
Learn more about the sessions and register

Norse Athletic Association Fall Luncheon
2025-09-05 12:00 - 13:00 | Dahl Centennial Union, Peace Dining Room
Join us for our fall luncheon on Friday, Sept. 5, at noon in Peace Dining Room to welcome Luther’s new Athletics Director Megan Wilson, connect with fall season coaches, and hear updates on the Gerdin Fieldhouse construction. We can’t think of a better way to kick off an exciting fall season than lunch with our biggest Norse Athletics fans! Registration is now open. Lunch is $15 per person.
REGISTER FOR THE LUNCHEON

Music Faculty Showcase Recital
2025-09-07 16:00 - 17:00 | Center for Faith and Life, Main Hall
The Music Department faculty will perform a recital in the Center for Faith and Life. The recital will begin at 4:00 p.m.
Watch the livestream on the Music Department YouTube Channel

The Ground We Share: Conversations on Soil, Food, and Health
2025-09-09 18:30 - 21:30 | Center for Faith and Life
Join us for a keynote presentation by Anne Bikle linking soil to human health. Immediately following, we will feature a panel of local/regional farmers and health care providers joining in conversation to share their soil-food-health stories. Doors open early to engage in related interactive exhibits!
Center for Faith and Life, Luther College
Presented by Luther College Center for Ethics and Public Engagement in collaboration with the Regenerating Soil and Community Project and other Decorah organizations.
Free and open to the public
6:30-7:30pm: Pre-Event:Doors open for interactive exhibits to experience soil, food, and human health

Engage with soil health & water quality demonstrations (Regenerating Soil and Community Student/Faculty team)
Learn about regenerative agriculture practices (Winneshiek County Soil and Water Conservation District)
Experience and taste healthy food produced from the Driftless (Oneota Food Co-op)
Peruse and check out gardening, cooking, and health books (Decorah Public Library)
Connect with expertise elevating that food is health (Erin Meyer, MSFS RD)

7:30 pm: Presentation by Anne Biklé: Linking Soil Health to Human Health
Prelude: Dance performance by Luther College Orchesis Dance Group & faculty guests
Is it true that you are what you eat? Not entirely. The full story lies in how we grow the crops and raise animals that make their way into our bodies. Biklé will draw on her most recent book, “What Your Food Ate: How to Heal Our Land and Reclaim Our Health“, co-authored with her husband David Montgomery. Recent and forgotten science reveal intimate connections between soil health and human health traveling along a pathway that winds through soil, the bodies of crops, livestock, and microbiomes, eventually reaching us.
About Anne Biklé
Anne Biklé is a science writer and public speaker drawing on her background in biology and
environmental planning to explore humanity’s tangled relationship with nature through the lens of agriculture, soil, and food. She is particularly enthralled with the botanical world and its influence on humanity throughout history. With the help of mulches and microbes she has coaxed many a plant into rambunctious growth or nursed them back from the edge of death.
Biklé is the co-author of two books, What Your Food Ate and The Hidden Half of Nature. Both are collaborations with her husband geologist, David Montgomery. Her writing has appeared in print and digital media including Nautilus, Natural History, and Best Health. Her regenerative gardening practices have been featured in independent and documentary films and interviews with her can be found on a range of podcasts and radio programs that focus on farming, food, and human health.
Contact for Anne
web: www.Dig2Grow.com || email: Dig2Grow@gmail.com
8:30 pm: Soil, Food, and Health Conversation and Q&A with an award-winning panel of local/regional soil and human health care providers:
Wendy Johnson, Organic and conventional farmer, livestock grazier and entrepreneur. Owner and operator of Jóia Food and Fiber Farm, and Jóia Sleep. Co-manager and director of Center View Farms. Charles City, Iowa. 2024 Iowa Aldo Leopold Conservation Award winner.
Biography
Wendy Johnson is an organic and conventional grain farmer and grazier in Northeast Iowa and writer and public speaker on the intersections of climate and agriculture. She and her husband Johnny own and operate Jóia Food & Fiber Farm, a diversified regenerative organic farm growing food-grade grains, grazing ewes, grass-finishing lambs and cattle, custom grazing cow/calves and selling direct to consumer meats, grains and other edibles. They collaborate with other local farms to help build a robust food shed. She founded Jóia Sleep in 2020, a wool bedding business utilizing their sheep’s wool. Wendy also co-manages her family farm with her father, a 1200 acre conventional row-crop farm practicing extended crop rotations, no-till, cover cropping and have added several prairie strips in their traditional corn/soy fields. In the last five years, Wendy and Johnny have invested in agroforestry practices, adding trees and shrubs to enhance diversity and resiliency to the land and animals. Wendy is an active advocate of all things organic, perennial and promoter of diverse enterprises and people on the land. Her curiosity, passions and experiences have led her to leadership opportunities as former chair of the Iowa FSA state committee, former board member and chair of Practical Farmers of Iowa, and more currently steering committee member of the Rodale Institute Midwest Organic Center, farmer consultant and federal agriculture policy co-lead for Climate Land Leaders, Perennial Promise Growers Cooperative board member and chair, Regenerative Agriculture Foundation board member, Land Stewardship Project’s program committee member and numerous other local, state, regional and national board and committee roles.

Robby Jewell ‘14, 6th generation organic/conventional livestock and crop farmer and co-owner of Jewell Enterprizes, Decorah, IA. 2024 Excellence in Agriculture Decorah Chamber of Commerce Award winner. Nominated for 2025 Iowa Aldo Leopold Conservation Award.
Biography
Robby Jewell is co-owner of Jewell Enterprizes, a 1600-acre farm located in NE Iowa near Decorah. The farm includes stretches of the Upper Iowa River, a portion of Ten Mile Creek (a coldwater trout stream with naturally-reproducing brown trout), and many Driftless Area features including a waterfall, sinkholes, and springs. The farm produces organic turkeys (40,000 raised annually) and pasture-raised pork (100 hogs direct-marketed to consumers). The beef cow/calf operation consisting of 200 cows (calves on pasture) is rotationally-grazed through established pastures, silvopastures, and crop/cover crop fields. Organic crops of corn, oats, barley, peas, and alfalfa make up roughly 500 acres and conventional crops of corn and beans are planted on 250 acres. In a commitment to long-lasting stewardship and farm heritage, the Jewells have 696 acres in an Agricultural Land Easement with the Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation – the largest such easement in the state. Jewells also have 95 acres in the Emergency Wetland Program, maintain timber on over 600 acres of highly erodible land, and are actively restoring native oak savannah. The farm uses no-till, cover crops, mob intensity grazing, and a diverse crop rotation – all practices that protect soil health and help manage floodplain. Jewell Enterprizes received the 2024 Excellence in Agriculture Award from the Decorah Area Chamber. Robby is a sixth-generation farmer on a farm started in 1876. He is motivated to keep the farm in the family for future generations and continue the legacy that his ancestors worked so hard to achieve. Robby works year-round with his parents and co-owners Bob and Paula Jewell. Robby is currently a nominee for the 2025 Iowa Aldo Leopold Conservation Award.

Carly Zierke, Organic vegetable farmer and co-owner of Sweet Season Farm, a certified organic vegetable farm in Calmar, IA. Board member of Decorah Farmers Market and Oneota Community Food Co-op.
Biography
Carly Zierke is the co-owner of Sweet Season Farm, a certified organic vegetable farm in Calmar, Iowa, where she farms with her husband, Ethan Zierke. She believes more of our food can and should be grown right here in Iowa, and that we already have the soil and the skills to do it. At Sweet Season Farm, they grow vibrant, nutrient-dense vegetables available nine months out of the year and serve over 75 members through their market share program. Their growing methods center on long-term soil health, using cover crops, compost applications, and diverse crop rotations to build resilience and grow better food. Known for quality produce, practical veggie education, and soil-centered growing practices, Sweet Season Farm helps customers make the most of local food, starting with what’s in their fridge and what’s in season. They help customers solve everyday questions, like whether or not to peel farm-fresh carrots and how to keep salad greens crisp all week long. Through weekly emails, social media, and market conversations, Carly shares real-life tools that make local food easier to use and harder to waste. She also serves on the boards of the Decorah Farmers Market and Oneota Community Food Co-op, contributing her firsthand experience as a grower to local food conversations.

Jake Larkin ‘12 PA-C. Lead Physician Assistant in hospital medicine and clinical preceptor, Emplify Health by Gundersen, La Crosse, WI. Co-founder of plant partners group, which developed the Emplify Health rooftop/hospital farm. 2018 Main Campus Educator of the Year.
Biography
Jake is a lifelong gardener, Luther College graduate (’12) and physician assistant, working in hospital medicine in La Crosse since 2015. He is a clinical preceptor and past advisory board member with the UW-La Crosse PA program, lead PA for the hospital medicine group, and member of the WI Food as Medicine Coalition. Prompted by his experience working in the covid unit throughout the pandemic, Jake co-founded a volunteer grassroots employee group called Plant Partners. Among other projects, the group started a rooftop vegetable garden for employees, which sees several thousand visits annually. After an inspirational experience at Rodale Institute’s inaugural Regenerative Healthcare Conference in 2022, Jake has been volunteering to lead the establishment of an on campus hospital farm, which will use food and farming as outreach at the intersection of population health, lifestyle medicine (healthy eating, physical activity, social connection, stress reduction, avoiding harmful substances, and restorative sleep), and environmental stewardship. When not at work or in the garden, he is striving to be a great father to a newborn baby girl, cooking Harmony Valley’s CSA vegetables, or exploring the Driftless area’s beautiful landscapes by bike, foot or skis with his friends, wife, two dogs and hopefully fly rod.

Erin Meyer, MSFS, RD
Executive Director and Founder, Basil’s Harvest
Clinical Associate and co-founder of Cook Well, Eat Well, Live Well Culinary Medicine program, University of Illinois College of Medicine, Peoria
Biography
Erin is the Founder and Executive Director of Basil’s Harvest, a nonprofit dedicated to promoting human and planetary well-being through regional food systems. Basil’s Harvest envisions a vibrant food industry that supports diverse farming families, healthy soils, and resilient ecosystems. Erin is also a Clinical Associate at the University of Illinois College of Medicine, Peoria. She co-founded the Cook Well, Eat Well, Live Well Culinary Medicine program, where Family Practice Residents integrate culinary skills and nutrition to promote holistic health. Erin holds a Master of Sustainable Food Systems and is a registered dietitian. Before founding Basil’s Harvest, she directed a nonprofit providing experiential sustainable food system programming to culinary and healthcare professionals. She also owned a wholesale and retail business that supported regional organic growers and was a certified diabetes educator. Through her work, Erin leads the Coalition of Regenerative Ag Food Health Professionals (CRAFH) initiative, a transdisciplinary team dedicated to promoting a systems approach embodied in the motto “Healthy Soil Growing Healthy Foods for Healthy People and a Healthy Planet.” This initiative emphasizes research, education, and outreach to achieve its goals. Erin loves spending time with her adult daughters (when they have time for her), playing pickleball, being in the garden, and creating meals through simple preparation that highlight the ingredients. She enjoys kombucha, a tasty glass of wine, and a nice cold IPA.
Sponsors
The following have made Bikle’s four-day visit/events in the Decorah area possible: Basil’s Harvest, Bouska Sisters’ Farm, CM CO-Learn Project (Federal Grant Number NA23OAR4310629 from the Climate Program Office at NOAA), Davi Design Co., Decorah Bank & Trust Co., Decorah Public Library, Emplify Health by Gundersen, Iowa Food Hub, Luther College Center for Ethics and Public Engagement, Luther College Center for Sustainable Communities, Northeast Iowa Dairy and Agricultural Foundation, Oneota Community Food Co-op, Oneota Valley Literary Foundation, Pheasants Forever, Practical Farmers of Iowa, Regenerating Soil and Community Project, Seed Savers Exchange, Serenity Ridge Farm, and Winneshiek County Soil and Water Conservation District.

Emeriti Colloquium: New Counseling Minor
2025-09-11 15:00 - 16:30 | Baker Commons
Presenter: Joe Breitenstein

Center Stage Series: Laura Loge & Steven Luksan
2025-09-11 19:30 - 21:00 | Jenson-Noble Hall of Music, Noble Recital Hall
Crossings Concert: Musical Migrations
Join Luther College for a special night exploring the lives and works of Norwegian American composers as we celebrate the 200th anniversary of Norwegian immigration to North America. Pianist-composer Steven Luksan and soprano Laura Loge share newly uncovered works that blend cultures and showcase the challenges, humor and poetry of adjusting to a new home.
Presented in collaboration with the Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum Folk Art School, this concert is supported in part by a generous gift to the Vesterheim Annual Fund from Carol Birkland and Tom Woxland.
learn more and PURCHASE TICKETS

Luther College Writers Festival
2025-09-12 - 2025-09-13 | Luther College
Celebrating the rich diversity of contemporary writing, Luther College is hosting the eighth biennial Luther College Writers Festival Friday and Saturday, Sept. 12-13, 2025.The weekend includes keynote addresses, featured writers, readings, panels on craft, translation, and publishing, a book sale and more.
The 2025 Luther College Writers Festival is the eighth incarnation of an event first held in 2007 to explore the deep and diverse ways in which highly crafted literature in all genres explores the human condition and activates the spiritual and moral imagination of readers.
Why attend the luther college writers festival?
Luther College Writers Festival Schedule and Registration

Author Biographies

Michael Bazzett | Author

Michael Bazzett is the author of four collections of poetry, most recently The Echo Chamber (Milkweed Editions, 2021), as well as a verse translation of the creation epic of the Maya, The Popol Vuh (Milkweed, 2018), named by the New York Times as one of the best poetry books of 2018. His translation of the selected poems of Humberto Ak'abal, If Today Were Tomorrow, was published by Milkweed in 2024. The recipient of fellowships from the National Endowment for the Arts in both poetry and translation, he lives in Minneapolis.

Megan Mayhew Bergman | Author

Megan Mayhew-Bergman is an author, speaker, and teacher who writes about the natural world and remarkable women in a science- and art-forward way - and likes to help others do the same. She is the author of three books, Birds of a Lesser Paradise, Almost Famous Women, and How Strange a Season. As a journalist, essayist, and critic, she has written columns on climate change and the natural world for The Guardian and The Paris Review. Her work has been featured in The New York Times, The New Yorker, The Atlantic, Harper’s Bazaar, and elsewhere. Her short fiction has appeared in Best American Short Stories 2011 and 2015, and on NPR’s Selected Shorts.Currently, Megan serves as Director of Middlebury College’s Creative Writing Program and the Bread Loaf Environmental Writers’ Conference.

Jennifer Case | Author

Jennifer Case is the author of We Are Animals: On the Nature and Politics of Motherhood (Trinity University Press, 2024) and Sawbill: A Search for Place (University of New Mexico Press, 2018). Her essays have appeared widely in journals such as The Rumpus, Orion, Ecotone, Literary Mama, and North American Review, among others. She teaches at the University of Central Arkansas and serves as an assistant nonfiction editor at Terrain.org. You can find her at www.jenniferlcase.com.

Giano Cromley | Author

Born and raised in Montana, Giano Cromley is the author of two young adult novels and a collection of short stories. He is a recipient of an Artist Fellowship from the Illinois Arts Council and was a BookEnds Fellow with Stony Brook University. He is an amateur woodworker, a certified wildlife tracker, and an English professor at Kennedy-King College, where he is chair of the communications department. He lives on the Southside of Chicago with his wife and two dogs. [photo credit: Jeff Bohman]

Tamara Dean | Author

Tamara Dean is an author of fiction and nonfiction whose most recent book, Shelter and Storm: At Home in the Driftless (University of Minnesota Press, 2025), is about living mindfully with nature and community in a time of uncertainty. Her work has appeared in the American Scholar, the Georgia Review, the Guardian, One Story, Orion, STORY Magazine, the Southern Review, and elsewhere. Her essay "Safer than Childbirth" received a 2024 Pushcart Prize special mention and "Slow Blues" was named a 2021 National Magazine Award finalist. More at www.tamaradean.media.

Katherine Hannigan | Author

Katherine Hannigan is the author of the national bestseller and award-winning middle-grade novel Ida B ( ...and Her Plans to Maximize Fun, Avoid Disaster, and Possibly Save the World), as well as True ( ...Sort Of), an Amazon.com Best New Children’s Book of 2011. She wrote and illustrated Dirt + Water = Mud (a 2019–20 Iowa Goldfinch Award nominee), Emmaline and the Bunny (Kirkus Reviews Best Books of 2009), and Gwendolyn Grace (Atlanta Parent Best Books of 2015). She has undergraduate degrees in education and math and painting and an MFA in studio art. She has worked as an education coordinator for a large Head Start program in New York state and as an assistant professor of art and design at Iowa State University. Currently, she writes, and works on an organic vegetable farm in northeast Iowa.

Patrick Hicks | Author

Patrick Hicks is the author of more than 10 books, including The Collector of Names, This London, Adoptable, In the Shadow of Dora, and Across the Lake. He also wrote the critically and popularly acclaimed novel The Commandant of Lubizec. His work has appeared on NPR, The PBS Newshour, American Life in Poetry, and his first novel held company among only 20 books selected for National Reading Group Month. Hicks has been nominated seven times for the Pushcart Prize, won the Glimmer Train Fiction Award, and has been a finalist for the High Plains Book Award, the Steinberg Essay Prize, the Screencraft Cinematic Book Award, and an Emmy. A former visiting fellow at Oxford, he has won a number of grants, including from the Bush Artist Foundation, the Loft Literary Center, and the National Endowment for the Humanities. After living in Europe for many years, he now lives in the Midwest, where he is the writer-in-residence at Augustana University as well as a faculty member in the MFA program at the University of Nevada, Reno at Lake Tahoe. His latest book is Greater Minnesota.

Lovar Davis Kidd | Author

Lovar Davis Kidd, known as L.D., is an interdisciplinary performer, choreographer, and abstract artist from Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Dedicated to amplifying marginalized voices, his work often incorporates immersive artistic experiences and social justice themes. L.D. holds an MFA in choreography from the University of Iowa, where his research explored the connections between contemporary movement practices, Black vernacular aesthetics, and technology.

Drawing from his biracial background, Kidd's artistic approach is deeply informed by social justice, diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) principles, which also inspire his apparel company, 100% OVER RACISM.

With a significant performance history, L.D. has showcased his talent across the United States, including roles in the 2nd National Tour of In The Heights, Sacramento Music Circus's Aida, Disney California Adventure Park's Aladdin: A Musical Spectacular, and the Radio City Rockettes’ Christmas Spectacular. He has also performed with Helanius J. Wilkins’s D.C.-based EDGEWORKS Dance Theater and LA-based dance companies Word In Motion and Urban Poets.

Akwi Nji | Author

Akwi Nji is a multidisciplinary artist whose work blends poetry, music, and visual art to explore themes of identity, resilience, and belonging. Named Iowa Poet of the Year by the Iowa Music Awards and a recipient of the 2025 Governor’s Emerging Arts Leader Award, she creates immersive performance experiences that blur the boundaries between genres. At the Luther Writers Festival, she joins forces with artists Lovar Davis Kidd and Chuy Renteria for an interdisciplinary collaboration that unites spoken word, movement, and imagery—where art becomes both expression and activism.

Jim Reese | Author

Jim Reese’s latest book is Coming to a Neighborhood near You: The Repercussions of Crime and Punishment (Potomac Books, Sept. 2025), which draws on his extensive work with both the Federal Bureau of Prisons and South Dakota Department of Corrections. He spent 14 years in residency for the National Endowment for Arts’ interagency initiative with the Federal Bureau of Prisons, where he established Yankton Federal Prison Camp’s first creative writing and publishing workshop. Reese is the author of eight books, including the nonfiction collection Bone Chalk, and has received several awards for his writing and public service. www.jimreese.org

Jesus “Chuy” Renteria | Author

Jesus “Chuy” Renteria is a writer and dancer from West Liberty—Iowa’s first majority Hispanic town. Renteria’s writing explores the spaces between cultures. Their memoir We Heard It When We Were Young released in 2021 with the University of Iowa Press and was recommended by Xochitl Gonzalez on the Today Show, as well as being featured in the Chicago Review of Books and on NPR. Renteria was the recipient of the Poets & Writers 2023 Maureen Egan Writers Exchange Award for Fiction. They are the arts and culture editor for Little Village Magazine and write the Substack “Of Spanglish and Maximalism.” They are working on their second book. [photo credit: Hao Zhou]

William R. Russell | Author

Rev. Dr. William R. Russell, a specialist in the life and work of Martin Luther, works at the intersection of the academy and the church, where he interprets the Reformer’s chief insights for modern audiences. With a PhD from the University of Iowa and an MDiv from Luther Seminary, Russell has served in a variety of academic and pastoral ministry settings and authored/translated 10 books and dozens of articles and reviews. A sought-after speaker, he has addressed audiences from Canada to Brazil, Malaysia to Nigeria, Norway to South Africa. He is married to Ann Svennungsen, and they have three grown children and four grandchildren.

Books that he has written, translated, and/or edited include: What to do During an Epidemic by Martin Luther, The Ninety-Five Theses and Other Writings by Martin Luther, and Martin Luther’s Basic Theological Writings, Revised Third Edition.

Rachel Swearingen | Author

Rachel Swearingen is the author of the award-winning story collection How to Walk on Water and Other Stories. Her stories, essays, interviews, and reviews have appeared in Electric Lit, VICE, the Missouri Review, Kenyon Review, Off Assignment, Agni, American Short Fiction, and elsewhere. She is the recipient of several awards, including the Berlin Writing Prize, the New American Press Fiction Prize, the Missouri Review Editors’ Prize in Fiction, a Rona Jaffe Foundation Writers’ Award, and the Mississippi Review Prize in Fiction. Originally from rural Wisconsin, Rachel earned a BA from the University of Wisconsin–Madison and a PhD in English (creative writing) from Western Michigan University. She has taught writing and literature at the School of the Art Institute–Chicago, Cornell College, Western Michigan University, and Kalamazoo College. She lives in Chicago. [photo credit: Barney Cokeliss]

Amy Weldon | Author

An Alabama native, Amy Weldon is professor and department head of English at Luther College, where she codirects the Luther College Writers Festival. Her most recent book is Creature: A Novel of Mary Shelley and Frankenstein, and her next book, now under contract to Bloomsbury Academic, will be A Thing of Beauty: Reading the Romantics in a World on Fire. Read more at amyeweldon.com.

Rachel Yoder | Author

Rachel Yoder is the author of the novel Nightbitch, now a feature film written and directed by Marielle Heller and starring Amy Adams. Selected as an Indie Next Pick in August 2021, Nightbitch has gone on to be named a best book of the year by Esquire and Vulture and recognized as a finalist for the PEN/Hemingway Award for Debut Fiction. Her stories and essays have appeared in publications such as Harper’s, the New York Times, the Paris Review, the Southern Review, and the Sun. She is an assistant professor of screenwriting at the University of Iowa.

Farwell Distinguished Lecture: Megan Mayhew-Bergman: “Writing the Sacred: Awe, Ecology, and the Imagination”
2025-09-12 19:00 - 21:30 | Center for Faith and Life, Main Hall
Megan Mayhew-Bergman is an author, speaker, and teacher who writes about the natural world and remarkable women in a science and art-forward way – and likes to help others do the same.
She is the author of three books, Birds of a Lesser Paradise (2012), Almost Famous Women (2016), and How Strange a Season (2022). She has written columns on climate change and the natural world for The Guardian and The Paris Review. Her work has been featured in The New York Times, The New Yorker, The Atlantic, Harper’s Bazaar, and elsewhere. Currently, Megan serves as Director of Middlebury College’s Creative Writing Program and the Bread Loaf Environmental Writers’ Conference. She is also an instructor in the California Coast and Climate Semester and MPA in Sustainability Program and oversees an Environmental Storytelling Series as well as engaging writers and readers through her Substack newsletter, Open Field Stories.
Megan appears at Luther in conjunction with the Luther College Writers Festival on campus September 12-13.
Watch via livestream
Farwell Lecture Endowment
The Elwin D. and Helen Farwell Distinguished Lecture Series Endowment was established in 1981 in recognition of the contributions the Farwells made to the Luther community. Elwin D. Farwell was president of Luther College 1963–1981.

Faculty Artist Series: Camille Balleza, piano
2025-09-14 14:00 - 15:00 | Jenson-Noble Hall of Music, Noble Recital Hall
Luther College Staff Collaborative Pianist Camille Balleza will perform a piano recital in the Noble Recital Hall at 2 p.m.
Watch the livestream on the Music Department YouTube Channel

Blood Drive hosted by the Black Student Union
2025-09-15 10:00 - 15:00 | Dahl Centennial Union, Mott/Borlaug
The Black Student Union is hosting a blood drive and needs your support. Donating blood is a simple way to make a big difference in our community. Don’t miss out—sign up today to secure your spot and make an impact that truly matters.
SIGN UP TO DONATE

Eats, Education and Engagement: Festival of Hispanic Cultures
2025-09-16 17:00 - 19:00 | The Landing, Decorah
Join us for Eats, Education, and Engagement featuring cuisine from Brazil, Colombia, Costa Rica, the Dominican Republic, and Mexico. The cost is $10 for adults and $5 for college students and children (17 years old and younger). Reservations are not required.
This event is a partnership between the Center for Intercultural Engagement and Support (CIES) and The Landing Market.

CANCELLED - Faculty Artist Series: Deborah Gover, soprano
2025-09-16 19:30 - 20:30 | Jenson-Noble Hall of Music, Noble Recital Hall
Luther College faculty member Deborah Gover will perform a recital in the Noble Recital Hall at 7:30 p.m.
Watch the livestream on the Music Department YouTube Channel

"Windows of Praise, Prayer, and Supplication," a Recital of Music for Organ and Trumpet
2025-09-17 19:30 - 20:30 | Center for Faith and Life, Main Hall
Carrie Groenewold and Richard Neckermann present “Windows of Praise, Prayer, and Supplication,” a recital of music for organ and trumpet.

Family Weekend Concert: Jazz Orchestra and Concert Band
2025-09-20 12:30 - 13:30 | Center for Faith and Life, Main Hall
Luther College Jazz Orchestra and Luther College Concert Band will perform a concert in the Center for Faith and Life.
Watch the livestream on the Music Department YouTube Channel

view the full Family Weekend schedule

Ballroom & Swing Family Weekend Showcase
2025-09-20 14:00 - 15:00 | Center for the Arts, 219 (CFA Studio 2)
Join the Luther College Ballroom & Swing Team for a Family Weekend showcase. Members of our competitive team, from newcomers to our most advanced dancers, will give a demonstration of both smooth and rhythm dances in which we compete. We look forward to displaying our vast array of talented ballroom dancers and showing off what our newcomers have learned in just a few short weeks. We will end the showcase by inviting friends and family to join us on the floor to learn the basic moves for Hustle, a popular social dance that is easy to both teach and learn, and enjoy some social dancing for all ages and experience levels.
All are welcome!
view the full Family Weekend schedule

Family Weekend Concert: Cathedral Choir | Collegiate Chorale | Symphonic Band | Norskkor | Aurora
2025-09-20 19:00 - 21:00 | Center for Faith and Life, Main Hall
Luther College Cathedral Choir, Collegiate Chorale, Symphonic Band, Norskkor, and Aurora will perform in the Center for Faith and Life.
Watch the livestream on the Music Department YouTube Channel

view the full Family Weekend schedule

Keynote Lecture: Jimmy Patiño —"Our Oppressions are One, Our Dreams are One: Chicano Movement Solidarities with Black and Red Power"
2025-09-23 19:00 - 20:30 | Center for Faith and Life, Recital Hall
Jimmy Patiño, University of Minnesota associate professor in Chicano and Latino studies, will delve into the Chicano Movement of the 1960s and 1970s and outline its connection to the struggles of African Americans, Puerto Ricans, and American Indians against racism and economic exploitation. Patiño will also discuss how Chicano and Latino activists viewed the liberation of Black and Native peoples as essential to lasting social change.
The lecture is free and open to the public.

CANCELED - CIES Monthly Movie: A Million Miles Away
2025-09-25 18:00 - 20:00 | Valders Hall of Science, 206
This event has been canceled.
Inspired by the true story of NASA flight engineer José Hernández, “A Million Miles Away” follows him and his devoted family of migrant farm workers on a decades-long journey, from a rural village in Michoacán, Mexico, to the fields of the San Joaquin Valley, to more than 200 miles above the Earth in the International Space Station. The movie is free. Snacks will be provided.

Upper Midwest Association for Campus Sustainability (UMACS) Conference
2025-09-26 - 2025-09-27 | Luther College Campus
Are you working to advance sustainability and inclusivity on a higher education campus? Join us to explore how we can take action together while we learn from incredible keynote speakers, presentations, interactive workshops, art installations, and more.
UMACS welcomes everyone who wants to create a culture of sustainability and inclusivity within higher education and broader community in the Upper Midwest, regardless of their campus role, background or identity. We seek to work together to meet the needs of all people without harming future generations’ ability to meet their own needs.
Register for UMACS

That 1975 Concert
2025-09-26 19:30 - 21:30 | Jenson-Noble Hall of Music, Noble Recital Hall
Featuring songs by Glen Campbell, David Bowie, The Four Seasons and more! Performed by Luther students, faculty, staff and Decorah community members.
Free and open to all.

Owl at Home, A Children's Opera
2025-09-27 10:30 - 11:30, 2025-09-27 13:00 - 14:00 | Center for the Arts, Jewel Theatre
“Owl at Home” is a charming musical retelling of the beloved book by Arnold Lobel – in which the well-meaning but slightly confused Owl experiences simple domestic adventures like making tear-water tea, being afraid of the bumps in his bed, and trying to be in two places at once.
This is a new work composed and written by Luther faculty members Brooke Joyce and Bobby Vrtis and is especially geared toward children— pre-K-4th grade. All are welcome!
In the weeks leading up to the performance, tickets will be available at tickets.luther.edu and at the ticket office located in the Center for Faith and Life.

CANCELED - SAC Concert: Men I Trust
2025-09-27 19:30 - 21:30 | Farwell Clearing (Preus Library Lawn)
This event has been canceled.
SAC’s yearly Concert Returns! This year we are ecstatic to bring Men I Trust to the Luther Campus. This Canadian indie band, renowned for their hypnotic melodies and captivating vocals, has earned acclaim for their distinct approach to music. Known for songs like “Show Me How” and “I Hope To Be Around”, Men I Trust brings yet another great concert to Luther College.
*Rain location: CFL Main Hall
Purchase Tickets

Faculty Artist Series: Xiao Hu, piano
2025-09-28 19:30 - 21:00 | Jenson-Noble Hall of Music, Noble Recital Hall
Luther College faculty member Xiao Hu will perform a recital at 7:30 p.m. in the Noble Recital Hall.
Watch the livestream on the Music Department YouTube Channel

Poster Vision Sale
2025-09-29 09:00 - 18:00, 2025-09-30 09:00 - 18:00 | Dahl Centennial Union, Marty’s
Poster Vision is a woman-owned social enterprise that partners with hundreds of campuses nationwide for engaging and exciting pop-up events. They run large-scale turnkey pop-up poster sale events on college campuses. They are based in Greenville, SC and believe a Poster Sale should be a space that offers representation for all students. Their events include a wide selection from smash hit classic posters, to fresh-off-the press artist prints. They also partner with young artists all over the world, using their platform to bring artists work to their generation in print form. And all of their signed artists are paid a direct percent of sales. How cool?! Stop by to pick out something for your dorm room, immerse yourself in the experience, or with the holidays around the corner, buy something for your family and friends!
This is a two day event: Monday, Sept. 29, and Tuesday, Sept. 30.

Lifelong Learner Seminar: Presidential Speeches: Visions of the Good Polity
2025-10-01 09:00 - 12:00, 2025-10-08 09:00 - 12:00, 2025-10-15 09:00 - 12:00, 2025-10-22 09:00 - 12:00 | Loyalty Hall, Board Room

Open Mic Night at Marty's
2025-10-02 19:00 - 21:00 | Dahl Centennial Union, Marty’s
Get ready to take the stage! Join us for a fun-filled evening of live performances at our Open Mic Night. Whether you’re a musician, poet, comedian, or have a unique talent, this is your chance to shine! Prizes for the top performers!

Inauguration Ceremony for President Brad Chamberlain
2025-10-03 10:30 - 11:30 | Center for Faith and Life, Main Hall
The official inauguration ceremony of Luther College’s 12th President, Dr. Brad Chamberlain, will take place as part of an expanded chapel service at the Center for Faith and Life Main Hall. A reception will follow. Both events are free and open to the public.
Watch via livestream
View the full homecoming schedule

Book Signing with Michael Osterholm, The Big One: How We Must Prepare for Future Deadly Pandemics
2025-10-03 13:00 - 14:30 | Dahl Centennial Union, Book Shop
Join Michael Osterholm PhD, MPH (’75) in the Book Shop Friday, October 3 from 1 – 2:30 p.m. for a signing of his newest release, The Big One: How We Must Prepare for Future Deadly Pandemics.

Dr. Michael Osterholm is a renowned epidemiologist, public health expert, and has been on the global front lines of some of the worst public health crises of our time.

1984, from the novel by George Orwell
2025-10-03 19:30 - 21:30, 2025-10-04 19:30 - 21:30 | Center for the Arts, Jewel Theatre
This stage adaptation of Orwell’s novel depicts a totalitarian society where the government exercises complete control over its citizens through surveillance, propaganda, and the manipulation of truth and language.
In the weeks leading up to the performance, tickets will be available at tickets.luther.edu and at the ticket office located in the Center for Faith and Life.

Jazz Night at Marty's
2025-10-03 20:30 - 22:30 | Dahl Centennial Union, Marty’s
Join SAC, Luther’s Jazz Orchestra, and Jazz Band for a fun night of music and dancing.
View the full homecoming schedule

Luther Homecoming Parade
2025-10-04 10:00 - 11:00 | Water Street to Campus
View the full homecoming schedule

Hoslett Memorial Lecture
2025-10-04 10:00 - 11:00 | Valders Hall of Science, 206
“We have come a long way baby! – Genetic counseling in the era of fetal therapies”, Karrie Theoharis ‘00, Fetal Center at Riley Children’s Health, Indiana University
View the full homecoming schedule

Homecoming Carnival
2025-10-04 12:00 - 14:30 | Farwell Lot
All are invited to this homecoming carnival, hosted by various clubs and organizations on campus! Come and enjoy an afternoon of delicious food, exciting entertainment, football, and plenty of prizes! We’ll have: cotton candy, soda, hamburgers, hot dogs, grilled chicken, matcha, magic tricks, Sugar Bowl ice cream, meat sticks, games, pie-in-the-face, and so much more!
The Homecoming Carnival is a great way to connect with friends, alumni, meet new people, and celebrate the amazing energy of our campus community. Whether you come for the tasty treats, the magic tricks, or simply to watch football and enjoy the atmosphere, there’s something for everyone!

CIES Homecoming Cookout
2025-10-04 15:00 - 17:00 | Baker Commons
Join the Center for Intercultural Engagement and Support (CIES) for an afternoon cookout. Food and drinks provided. All are welcome!
View the full homecoming schedule

Book Signing with Mary Thompson (’75)
2025-10-04 15:30 - 16:30 | Dahl Centennial Union, Book Shop
Join Mary Thompson (’75) for a book signing of her new release, Adventures of Coco Mia: Lost. What happens when a beloved furry friend goes missing? Find out in this heartwarming tale, inspired by a true story.
View the homecoming schedule of events

Homecoming Concert: Symphony Orchestra, Concert Band, Nordic Choir
2025-10-05 13:30 - 15:30 | Center for Faith and Life, Main Hall
Symphony Orchestra, Dennis Friesen-Carper, conductor
Concert Band, Cory Near, conductor
Nordic Choir, Andrew Last ’97, conductor
Presentations:
Weston H. Noble Award
Carlo A. Sperati Award
Hemp Family Prize for Orchestra Performance
Watch the livestream on the Music Department YouTube Channel

Royal Visit 2025: Public Dedication & Ribbon Cutting, Vesterheim Commons
2025-10-06 11:15 - 11:45 | Vesterheim Museum Commons

Royal Visit 2025: Celebration Convocation - CFL Main Hall
2025-10-06 13:15 - 14:00 | Center for Faith and Life, Main Hall
Tickets available at the Luther Ticket Office in the Center for Faith and Life or at tickets.luther.edu.
Watch via livestream
learn more

Emeriti Colloquium: Graveyard Art: Reading Phelps Cemetery
2025-10-09 15:00 - 16:30 | Baker Commons
Presenter: Lindsey Row-Heyveld

Moon Fest
2025-10-09 18:30 - 20:30 | Farwell Lounge, (8th floor)
The Moon Festival, also known as the Mid-Autumn Festival, held on the 15th day of the eighth month in the Lunar calendar, is a popular harvest festival celebrated in China and many Asian countries. This year, it falls on Oct. 6 and we celebrate it on Oct. 9. Come to enjoy delicious moon cakes and fragrant tea. You will have a fun time playing Chinese games and learning about Chinese culture. This is a public event open to everyone.
Co-sponsored by the Department of Modern Languages and Cultures and Asian Student Association and Allies (ASAA).

Faculty Artist Series: Mike James, guitar
2025-10-09 19:30 - 20:30 | Jenson-Noble Hall of Music, Noble Recital Hall
Luther College faculty member Mike James will perform a recital in the Noble Recital Hall at 7:30 p.m.
Watch the livestream on the Music Department YouTube Channel

CANCELED-Faculty Artist Series: Miko Kominami, piano
2025-10-11 16:00 - 17:00 | Jenson-Noble Hall of Music, Noble Recital Hall
This event has been canceled.
Luther College faculty member Miko Kominami will perform a recital at 4:00 p.m. in the Noble Recital Hall.
Watch the livestream on the Music Department YouTube Channel

CANCELED - Faculty Artist Series: Carla Hanson, Du bist wie eine Blume
2025-10-12 14:00 - 15:00 | Jenson-Noble Hall of Music, Noble Recital Hall
NOTICE: Carla Hanson has canceled her faculty artist recital set for October 12.
Faculty member Carla Hanson will perform a recital in the Noble Recital Hall at 2 p.m.
Watch the livestream on the Music Department YouTube Channel

Cultural Community Connection at the Landing
2025-10-14 17:00 - 19:00 | The Landing, Decorah
Join CIES, PRIDE, and the Landing Market to celebrate the trailblazers and contributions of the LGBTQ+ community through eats, education, and engagement. The cost is $10 per person, or $5 for students (with ID) attending any college or university and for children 17 and younger. No reservations are needed.

Luther Alumni and Friends Happy Hour
2025-10-16 17:30 - 19:00 | Pulpit Rock Brewery
Join Luther alumni and friends in the Decorah area for an informal happy hour at Pulpit Rock Brewing Company. VP of Finance and Administration, Patti Hetrick ’84, will speak at 6 p.m.
This is a great opportunity to network with the Norse community in the Oneota Valley, meet old and new friends, and hear about the latest happenings at Luther College. No RSVP is required, just mark your calendar, grab a friend, and join us!

MOVED: Town Hall with Gubernatorial Candidate Rob Sand
2025-10-21 19:00 - 20:00 | Winneshiek County Fairgrounds, 900 E Main Street, Decorah, IA, 52101, United States
This event has been moved to the Winneshiek County Fairgrounds (Danan Lansing Building).

Gubernatorial candidate Rob Sand hosts a public forum. The public is welcome to attend.

For more information, contact Alexandra Cleverley at alexandra@robsand.com.

Wheels in Motion Workshop: Advancing Safe Bicycling Together
2025-10-23 09:30 - 12:30 | Center for Faith and Life, Recital Hall
October 23, 2025 | 9:30 AM – 12:30 PM
Luther College’s Center for Faith and Life | Recital Hall | 555 Luther Dr., Decorah, IA 52101
A FREE event hosted by Upper Explorerland’s Safe Routes to School program, in partnership with League Cycling Instructor Bill Smith, featuring:

Interactive discussion on bicycle safety in small towns & rural areas
Free lunch & Brainstorming session on elevating bicycling as a mode of transportation and a catalyst for community well-being
Optional on-bike demonstrations and post-workshop group ride on the scenic Trout Run Trail!

Faculty Artist Series: Luther College Piano Quartet with Dawn Wohn, violin
2025-10-25 16:00 - 17:00 | Jenson-Noble Hall of Music, Noble Recital Hall
The Luther College Piano Quartet will perform with violinist Dawn Wohn at 4:00 p.m. in the Noble Recital Hall.
Praised as having “a joyful sense of freedom, and a pure, unencumbered tone” by BBC Music Magazine, violinist Dawn Dongeun Wohn has performed in concert halls across five continents including Carnegie Hall and Lincoln Center. She has appeared as a soloist for live-broadcast performances with orchestras such as the Korean Broadcasting Symphony and the Aspen Conducting Orchestra, The New York Sinfonietta, and Japan’s Telemann Ensemble. In addition, she has performed recitals across the world including Carnegie Weill Hall, Alice Tully Hall in Lincoln Center, Merkin Hall, and Jordan Hall.
Her debut solo album Perspectives, featuring works by female composers was featured by the New York Times, Spotify and Apple Music and was chosen as one of WQXR’s best albums of the year. Her recent release, Unbounded by Delos Music explores music by American women. Both albums have been featured on radio programs all over the world and have been noted for its “elegant and impassioned playing” (Classical Magazine), “warm, crystal-clear tone” (Whole note Magazine), “stunning and panache” (IAWN) and “committed, caring and lovely playing” (Fanfare).
As a musician with a wide range of styles and interests, Dawn often performs with new music ensembles and as guest concertmaster for orchestras in venues as diverse as Carnegie Hall to Radio City Music Hall. Recent activities include a new commission by Jungsun Kang, performances of Mark Phillip’s Violin Power for violin and interactive electronics, and international tours with DJ Kid Koala and the Afiara Quartet as part of an interdisciplinary live show “Nufonia Must Fall”. As an active chamber musician, Dawn has been invited to perform at festivals such as International Musician’s Seminar Prussia Cove in England, The Banff Centre, Music@Menlo, and Aspen Music Festival. Notable collaborations include members of the Emerson, Miami and Tokyo String Quartets, as well as Colin Carr, Jason Vieaux and Roberto Plano.
Dawn began her violin studies at age 4 and trained at The Juilliard School’s Pre-College Division as a full scholarship student of the renowned pedagogue Dorothy DeLay. Further studies include an undergraduate degree from The Juilliard School, a Master of Music and Artist Diploma from Yale University, and a Doctor of Musical Arts degree from Stony Brook University where she studied with Philip Setzer of the Emerson Quartet, Soovin Kim and Gilbert Kalish.
Committed to teaching the next generation of violinists, she is currently on faculty at the University of Wisconsin-Madison’s Mead Witter School of Music and teaches at Rocky Ridge Music Festival during the summers. Previously, she held the position of Associate Professor of Violin at Ohio University’s School of Music as well as Associate Concertmaster of Harrisburg Symphony. As a guest artist she has presented and performed recitals at over 50 schools such as Oberlin, New England Conservatory, NYU, Ithaca College, Bowling Green State University and Kansas University. She has also been on faculty of festivals such as the Académie Anglicorde in France, International Music Festival of the Adriatic in Italy, and Festival de Febrero in Mexico.
Dawn performs on a 1732 Nicolo Gagliano violin and enjoys reading or spending time outdoors with her husband Jay, son Jasper and dog Wolfie (named after Mozart) when she is not performing or teaching. For more information on Dawn, please visit www.dawnplaysviolin.com
Watch the livestream on the Music Department YouTube Channel

First Volleyball Game in the Gerdin Fieldhouse: Women's Volleyball vs. Central College
2025-10-25 18:00 - 20:00 | Gerdin Fieldhouse
Pack the Gerdin for the opening game in the Gerdin Fieldhouse on the new Birkestrand Court! Thrivent will be handing out free t-shirts in exchange for a canned food item that will be donated to the Decorah Food Pantry. This is a “blackout” event; wear black!
Visit the Luther college norse website

Tau Delta Gamma's Annual Pink Night at Impact Coffee
2025-10-25 19:00 - 21:00 | Impact Coffee, Decorah
Join us in support of Winneshiek County Celebration of Life (WCCOL). Enjoy live music by the Driftless Jazz Collective, silent auction baskets, a specialty drink, and free-will donation ribbons that will be displayed throughout the event. Winneshiek County Celebration of Life provides support to families experiencing or recovering from cancer by offering gas cards, bill assistance, and other services to ease financial stress. 100% of proceeds from Pink Night will be donated to WCCOL to help local families facing cancer find comfort and support during their journey.

Center Stage Series School Performance: Harold and His Headphones
2025-10-28 10:00 - 11:00 | Center for Faith and Life, Main Hall
Recommended for K-4th grade.
Follow young Harold as he listens to different pieces of music—performed live by classical-crossover duo The OK Factor—through his headphones while processing the way the music makes him feel. This story engages students in an exciting social-emotional learning adventure, inviting them to explore how music and their emotions might affect one another.
To reserve tickets from your school, please contact Bradley Phillips, phillibr@luther.edu, or 563-387-1293. Community members are welcome as space allows.
Sponsored in part by the Kurtich Endowment for Campus Programming.

The 12:30 performance of Harold and His Headphones is cancelled
2025-10-28 12:30 - 13:30 | Center for Faith and Life, Main Hall
NOTE: The performance at 10 a.m. of Harold and His Headphones will be held.
Recommended for K-4th grade.
Follow young Harold as he listens to different pieces of music—performed live by classical-crossover duo The OK Factor—through his headphones while processing the way the music makes him feel. This story engages students in an exciting social-emotional learning adventure, inviting them to explore how music and their emotions might affect one another.
To reserve tickets from your school, please contact Bradley Phillips, phillibr@luther.edu, or 563-387-1293. Community members are welcome as space allows.
Sponsored in part by the Kurtich Endowment for Campus Programming.

Center Stage Series: Jaerv + The OK Factor
2025-10-28 19:30 - 21:00 | Center for Faith and Life, Main Hall
Through folk-inspired songs that are fresh, playful, intricate and joyous, the Minneapolis-based string duo The OK Factor and Swedish quintet Jaerv will have audiences tapping their feet and smiling in their seats.
Learn more and purchase tickets
The Center Stage Series is made possible by the generous support of major season sponsors, including Decorah Bank and Trust, Emplify Health by Gundersen, Kurtich Endowment for Campus Programming, Minnesota Public Radio, Torgerson Center for Nordic Studies and Vesterheim Museum.

Digital Forces: AI and the Criminal (In)Justice System
2025-10-29 18:00 - 19:00 | Olin 102
Join us for an evening of discussion of Artificial Intelligence and the Criminal Justice System by a panel of practitioners, including police, public defense, and sociology. Each of our panelists will discuss their experiences and raise questions about the future of AI. What promise and/or peril does AI bring to the practices of law enforcement, the distribution of “justice,” and the future of humanity?

LGBTQ History Month Lecture: Dr. Andrew Ives & Willem Vanroosenbeek -The Future is Queer and Disabled
2025-10-29 19:30 - 20:30 | Center for Faith and Life, Recital Hall
This presentation will discuss language and demographic changes within the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and disability communities. Participants will explore the intersections between LGBTQ+ identity and the disability identity. Both the queer and disability communities are defined by their resilience, unity, compassion, and love – tools that we believe will be essential as we shape the future.
Sponsored by Accessibility Services & CIES

Lecture: The Present, Past, and Future of Soil Erosion in the Midwestern United States
2025-10-30 19:00 - 20:00 | Valders Hall of Science, 206
Accelerated soil loss is a critical challenge for midwestern agriculture and for environmental quality in agricultural regions. Geoscientist Isaac Larsen from the University of Massachusetts Amherst will present findings from his research on the extent of soil erosion in the midwest and associated implications for sustainable soil conservation practices.
Isaac Larsen Biography
Isaac Larsen grew up surrounded by cornfields south of Clear Lake, Iowa and graduated from Ventura High School. He attended Carleton College and received graduate degrees from Utah State University and the University of Washington. Following a post-doctoral research fellowship at the California Institute of Technology, Isaac joined the faculty at the University of Massachusetts – Amherst, where he is currently an associate professor. Isaac has worked on the timing and rates of landscape change on four continents and will share his research on a topic close to home – soil erosion in the Midwestern United States.

Night with the Norse
2025-10-31 19:00 - 21:30 | Gerdin Fieldhouse
Join Luther College Men’s and Women’s Basketball teams on Halloween, 7–9:30 p.m. to kick off the 2025-26 basketball season! One team will play the first half of a basketball game and the other will play the second half, with lots of fun in-between. There will be a student costume contest, an exclusive look at the Norsetrotters, a dunk contest, cheer team will perform a routine, and more. Spooky fun and hoops—don’t miss it!

Silent Film with Guest Organist, Matthew Gender
2025-10-31 19:30 - 21:00 | Center for Faith and Life, Main Hall
Guest organist Dr. Matthew Gender returns to Luther College to accompany a showing of the 1927 silent film The Cat and the Canary, starring Laura La Plante. The score for the classic film will be improvised on the Center for Faith and Life’s 49-stop Sipe pipe organ. Dr. Gender is the Director of Worship Arts at Zumbro Lutheran Church in Rochester, Minnesota and has received prizes in the National Competition for Organ Improvisation (2016) and the University of Michigan Organ Improvisation Competition (2017).
The program is free to the public, and costumes are welcomed and encouraged!

"Where Does $1 Trillion Go?" Day of Action at Luther College
2025-11-01 13:00 - 14:00 | Olin 102
Luther College students are invited to join the Up to Us – Luther College team for an interactive civic engagement event focused on understanding the U.S. national debt and its implications for our generation’s economic future. The event, titled “Where Does $1 Trillion Go?”, will feature four interactive sessions—Federal Budget 101, Generational Debt, Interest vs. Investment, and Student Voices—that help participants explore how national fiscal choices impact higher education, job opportunities, and long-term financial stability.
Participants will have the opportunity to take part in a Congressional postcard-writing activity, engage in short budget simulations, and sign the Up to Us pledge to make their voices heard on fiscal responsibility. Free pizza, snacks, and raffle prizes will be available to attendees who complete all sessions or share their experiences on social media using #UpToUs and @UpToUs_LutherCollege.
This event is part of the national Up to Us campaign, a nonpartisan initiative that empowers students across the country to build awareness and dialogue around the national debt and generational equity. Open exclusively to Luther College students, faculty, and community members.
registration is encouraged

Concert Band Concert
2025-11-02 16:00 - 17:30 | Center for Faith and Life, Main Hall
The Concert Band Concert will take place in the Center for Faith and Life main hall at 4 p.m..
Watch the livestream on the Music Department YouTube Channel

Price Lecture: Leadership Institute for Indigenous and Afro-descendent Women from Latin America
2025-11-04 18:00 - 20:00 | Olin 102
Every year, the Center for Latin American Studies at the University of Arizona hosts two highly select groups of Indigenous and Afro-descendent women between the ages of 18 and 24 from different Latin American countries for the Study of the United States Institute (SUSI), funded by the US Department of State. In this talk, the director of the Institute, Dr. Marcela Vásquez-León, will reflect on her decade long experience mentoring these students. She will focus on how the program is a transformational site in which the participants envision and build a sense of intersectional feminism along the lines of what feminist Lelia Gonzalez has called amefricanidade (amefricanity), creating networks of solidarity that go beyond the program. At the same time, challenges and contradictions arise given the ways in which the institute itself is situated in the larger geopolitics of U.S./Latin American relations.

Oil, Wealth, and the Environment: Norway’s Balancing Act
2025-11-04 19:00 - 20:00 | Olin 101
Discover how Norway became one of the world’s richest oil nations while still leading in sustainability. This presentation by Luther senior Lily Nuland explores Norway before oil, the creation of the Oil Fund, environmental policies, political cooperation, carbon capture technology, and its role on the global stage. Can oil and sustainability truly coexist?

The Norway, Decorah, Zululand Triangle: Tracing the Enduring Footprints of the Norwegian Diaspora
2025-11-06 19:00 - 20:00 | Pulpit Rock Brewery
History professors Robert Christman and Richard Mtisi will give a public presentation on Thursday, Nov. 6, at 7 p.m. at Pulpit Rock Brewery. They will describe the surprising 19th-century connections linking Norway, Decorah, and Kwa-Zulu Natal, South Africa; explain how Luther College’s story became interwoven with the lives of Zulu communities and Norwegian missionaries; and recount the continuing impact of these efforts as discovered in a recent research trip to South Africa. Light hors d’oeuvres will be served.

Jazz Band Concert
2025-11-06 19:30 - 21:30, 2026-04-23 19:30 - 21:30 | Center for Faith and Life, Main Hall
The Luther College Jazz Band will perform a concert in the Center for Faith and Life main hall at 7:30 p.m..
Watch the livestream on the Music Department YouTube Channel

Artificial Intelligence: What’s Next? Panel Discussion
2025-11-07 17:00 - 18:30 | Dahl Centennial Union, Peace Dining Room
Join us for two exciting events exploring the impact of artificial intelligence across education, industry, and everyday life.

Panel Discussion – November 7, 5–6:30 p.m., Union Peace Dining Room: Guest speakers from academia and industry will come together to discuss, understand, and critically reflect on the growing influence of AI in our world today.
Community Conversation – November 8, 10–11:30 a.m., Landing Market: Continue the dialogue in an informal gathering with local business owners, Luther alumni, and community members interested in AI and innovation.

learn more
Register

First Men's Basketball Game on the Birkestrand Court: Men's Basketball vs Macalester College
2025-11-07 19:00 - 21:00 | Gerdin Fieldhouse
Luther College Business Club will be handing out free t-shirts for the men’s first home basketball game on the new Birkestrand Court. They will also be tabling to raise awareness for their group! This is a “whiteout” event; wear white!
Visit the Luther college norse website

Artificial Intelligence: What’s Next? Community Conversation
2025-11-08 10:00 - 11:30 | The Landing, Decorah

Center Stage Series: Lorelei Ensemble
2025-11-09 13:00 - 14:30 | Center for Faith and Life, Main Hall
The Grammy-nominated Lorelei Ensemble delivers bold and inventive programs that champion the extraordinary range of the human voice. At turns eerie and hypnotic, razor-sharp and precise, resonant and dissonant, this riveting performance features a cinematic backdrop and a cautionary tale in the era of climate change.
purchase tickets
The Center Stage Series is made possible by the generous support of major season sponsors, including Decorah Bank and Trust, Emplify Health by Gundersen, Kurtich Endowment for Campus Programming, Minnesota Public Radio, Torgerson Center for Nordic Studies and Vesterheim Museum.

Percussion Ensemble Concert
2025-11-09 19:00 - 20:00 | Jenson-Noble Hall of Music, Noble Recital Hall
The Luther College Percussion Ensemble will perform a concert in the Noble Recital Hall at 7 p.m.
Watch the livestream on the Music Department YouTube Channel

Emeriti Colloquium: The Future of Europe After Ukraine
2025-11-13 15:00 - 16:30 | Baker Commons
Presenter: Michael Engelhardt

Senior Presentation: Crossing Borders: From Timor-Leste to a Post-Brexit World
2025-11-13 18:00 - 18:45 | Valders Hall of Science, 206
This presentation follows a personal and global journey from Timor-Leste to the United Kingdom, exploring how one of the world’s youngest nations connects to one of Europe’s most defining political moments — Brexit. Through stories, observations, and research on immigration, economics, and identity, Jose Eliano reflects on how Brexit affected Timorese communities living and working in the UK through Portuguese citizenship. The talk invites audiences to consider how global decisions can shape opportunities, belonging, and the movement of people — even in places as distant as Timor-Leste.
Open to students, faculty, and community members interested in global affairs, migration, and the experiences of Timorese people abroad. Sponsored by the International Studies Department.

VPA Musical: Renascence
2025-11-13 19:30 - 21:30, 2025-11-14 19:30 - 21:30, 2025-11-15 19:30 - 21:30, 2025-11-20 19:30 - 21:30, 2025-11-21 19:30 - 21:30 | Center for the Arts, Jewel Theatre
Renascence tells the captivating story of young Edna St. Vincent Millay’s transformation from small-town Maine poet to New York literary sensation. At just 18, Millay writes her masterpiece “Renascence”—a profound meditation on suffering, rebirth, and the interconnectedness of all life—launching her extraordinary journey from rural obscurity to fame. This musical explores the power of art to transcend restrictions and the human struggle between confinement and freedom, death and renewal.
In the weeks leading up to the performance, find tickets at the Luther Ticket Office or at tickets.luther.edu.

Symphonic Band Concert
2025-11-16 16:00 - 18:00 | Center for Faith and Life, Main Hall
Symphonic Band will perform a concert in the Center for Faith and Life main hall at 4 p.m.
Watch the livestream on the Music Department YouTube Channel

Fall Library Book Sale
2025-11-17 07:30 - 23:59, 2025-11-18 07:30 - 23:59, 2025-11-19 07:30 - 23:59, 2025-11-20 07:30 - 23:59, 2025-11-21 07:30 - 17:30, 2025-11-22 12:00 - 17:00 | Preus Library
Preus Library will offer double the fun this academic year with double the book sales. Our fall book sale will be held November 17-22, with a surprising range of items and rapidly declining prices. Fiction, non-fiction, hardcovers and paperbacks. DVDs, sheet music, and more.

Cultural Community Connection & Author Carson Faust Talk
2025-11-18 17:00 - 19:00 | The Landing, Decorah
Join CIES, and the Landing Market to celebrate Indigenous Heritage Month in November through eats, education, and engagement. Author Carson Faust will give a reading and Q&A of his new novel, If the Dead Belong Here (2025). Thursday, November. 13, 5 -7 p.m. at The Landing Market. The cost is $10 per person, or $5 for students (with ID) attending any college or university and for children 17 and younger. No reservations are needed.

SAAC Food Drive & Paper Airplane Contest
2025-11-18 19:00 - 21:00 | Gerdin Fieldhouse
During the men’s basketball game on Tue., Nov. 18, the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) is hosting a Food Drive and Paper Airplane Contest to benefit the Postville Food Pantry This initiative is a wonderful opportunity to support our surrounding communities.
Guests who bring a canned food item will receive a complimentary popcorn as a thank-you for their contribution.
During halftime, attendees are invited to participate in a Paper Airplane Contest. Participants will construct their own paper airplanes and, upon signal, launch them from the stands toward a target on the court. The airplane landing closest to the target will receive a prize. Pieces of paper will be $1.00 each with all proceeds going to the Postville Food Pantry.
Join us for an evening of community engagement and entertainment while supporting a meaningful cause.

Symphony Orchestra Homecoming Concert
2025-11-18 19:30 - 21:00 | Center for Faith and Life, Main Hall
The Luther Symphony Orchestra will perform a homecoming concert in the Center for Faith and Life at 7:30 p.m.
Watch the livestream on the Music Department YouTube Channel

"The Girls Race" - Film Screening and Q+A
2025-11-19 16:00 - 16:30 | Olin 102
“The Girls Race,” a direct cinema documentary short, depicts the power and authenticity of cross country by joining 39 schools and 242 girls as they compete at the Johnson-Olson High School Girls Varsity 5K, a race held as part of Luther College’s 50th All-American Invitational.

One Team Day Happy Hour
2025-11-20 17:30 - 19:00 | Impact Coffee, Decorah
Join us at Impact Coffee from 5:30 to 7:00 p.m. on November 20 to celebrate One Team Day! If you live in the area, join alumni, parents, coaches, and fans of Norse Athletics for light refreshments, a cash bar, and time to celebrate all the good Norse Athletics does for student-athletes and our community. This free event is sponsored by Impact Coffee.

Fall Opera Scenes
2025-11-21 19:30 - 20:30, 2025-11-22 19:30 - 20:30 | Jenson-Noble Hall of Music, Noble Recital Hall
The Fall Opera Scenes will occur in the Noble Recital Hall at 7:30 p.m.
Another performance will take place on Saturday, November 22 also at 7:30 p.m.
Watch the livestream on the Music Department YouTube Channel

Philharmonia and Cello Choir Concert
2025-11-22 12:00 - 13:30 | Jenson-Noble Hall of Music, Noble Recital Hall
Luther College’s Philharmonia and Cello Choir will perform a concert in the Noble Recital Hall at 12 p.m.
Watch the livestream on the Music Department YouTube Channel

Jazz Orchestra Concert
2025-11-23 16:00 - 17:30 | Center for Faith and Life, Main Hall
Jazz Orchestra will perform a concert in the Center for Faith and Life main hall at 4 p.m.
Watch the livestream on the Music Department YouTube Channel

Guest Talk: Building Community and Spotting Chameleons - Experiencing rural Madagascar as a Peace Corps Volunteer
2025-12-03 09:15 - 10:15 | Main 212
Join Returned Peace Corps Volunteer and Luther alum Becca Buse ’19 for a talk encapsulating their experience as a Peace Corps volunteer in Madagascar 2023-25, followed by lunch in the Luther Cafeteria.
Madagascar is the fourth largest island on earth and extremely biodiverse—famous for lemurs, chameleons, and baobab trees. Madagascar also faces poverty, lack of infrastructure (11% paved roads), and inconsistent access to water and electricity. As a Peace Corps Volunteer, Becca focused on three areas of community building: training local farmers to increase sustainable agriculture practices, co-teaching mothers to improve nutrition, and educating community members to protect the local Tapia forest environment. While all Peace Corps experiences abroad are unique to each volunteer, Becca will also have time to answer general questions about applying to the peace corps, different types of service, and living abroad. Additionally, Becca has been selected as a Rotary Peace Fellow and will begin a master’s in Peace and Conflict Studies (MPaC) at the University of Queensland, Brisbane Australia in February of 2026. At the end of the talk you will get a chance to spot a chameleon. It isn’t as easy as you’d think!
*People joining for lunch will need to pay for their own cafeteria entry.

Christmas at Luther Dress Rehearsal
2025-12-03 16:15 - 18:15 | Center for Faith and Life, Main Hall
This is the final rehearsal before the official Christmas at Luther performances. It is open to the public, but please be aware that the program may be halted to tend to any aspect of production that may need attention.

Please be seated by 4 p.m.

Jazz Lessons and Carols
2025-12-07 10:00 - 11:00 | Jenson-Noble Hall of Music, Noble Recital Hall
College Ministries invites you to Fling Wide the Door, our annual Jazz Lessons & Carols worship service on Sunday, December 7 at 10:00 a.m. in the Noble Recital Hall (Jenson-Noble Hall of Music). We’ll share readings for the season that encourage us to welcome Jesus and welcome one another, and we will sing familiar carols set in the styles of spirituals, jazz, blues, and Latin American traditions. This service features musical collaboration with Luther alumnus Jon Ailabouni and student musicians.
All are invited to a time of coffee fellowship prior to worship at 9:00 a.m. in the Reiso Atrium.
A festive spin on a traditional Christmastime service, this is a joyful addition to Christmas at Luther weekend – don’t miss it!

Merry Makers Fall Variety Show
2025-12-10 19:00 - 20:00 | Center for the Arts, 219 (CFA Studio 2)
Merry Makers, the exploratory comedy club, has been working hard this semester and it’s time to hit the stage! Expect a night of comedic sketches, clowns, audience antics and… a murder mystery to solve? Come join us for a night of comedy and clues where YOU help crack the case!

Emeriti Colloquium: Ritual in our Lives
2025-12-11 15:00 - 16:30 | Baker Commons
Presenter: Laird Edman

Emeriti Colloquium: One Local Family, Four American Nations
2026-01-08 15:00 - 16:30 | Baker Commons
Presenter: David Faldet

Dorian Vocal Festival
2026-01-11 - 2026-01-12 | Center for Faith and Life and Jenson-Noble Hall of Music
For more information on the Dorian Vocal Festival, please visit the Dorian Vocal Festival webpage.
Dorian Vocal Festival Webpage

Dorian Vocal Festival Concert
2026-01-11 19:00 - 20:30 | Center for Faith and Life, Main Hall
The Dorian Vocal Festival concert featuring Luther’s Norskkor and Aurora choirs will occur in the Center for Faith and Life main hall at 7 p.m.
Watch the livestream on the Music Department YouTube Channel

Dorian Vocal Grand Concert
2026-01-12 17:00 - 18:30 | Center for Faith and Life, Main Hall
The Dorian Vocal Festival Grand Concert will be held at 5 p.m. in the Center for Faith and Life.
Watch the livestream on the Music Department YouTube Channel

Lifelong Learner Seminar: The World of the Vikings
2026-02-04 09:00 - 12:00, 2026-02-11 09:00 - 12:00, 2026-02-18 09:00 - 12:00, 2026-02-25 09:00 - 12:00 | Loyalty Hall, Board Room

Symphony Orchestra and String Faculty Concert
2026-02-08 16:00 - 17:30 | Center for Faith and Life, Main Hall
The Luther College Symphony Orchestra will perform a joint concert with the Luther College String Faculty in the Center for Faith and Life Main Hall at 4:00 p.m..
Watch the livestream on the Music Department YouTube Channel

Dorian Orchestra Festival Grand Concert
2026-02-09 17:30 - 18:30 | Center for Faith and Life, Main Hall
The Dorian Orchestra Festival will conclude with a Grand Concert in the Center for Faith and Life Main Hall at 5:30 p.m..
Watch the livestream on the Music Department YouTube Channel

Nordic Choir Tour Homecoming Concert
2026-02-10 19:30 - 21:30 | Center for Faith and Life, Main Hall
Returning from their tour, Nordic Choir will perform their homecoming concert in the Center for Faith and Life on the campus of Luther College. No tickets are necessary; the performance is free and open to the public.
Watch the livestream on the Music Department YouTube Channel

Emeriti Colloquium: BB + Making of a Star
2026-02-12 15:00 - 16:30 | Baker Commons
Presenter: Jim Eckblad

Luther Alumni and Friends Happy Hour
2026-02-12 17:30 - 19:00 | Pulpit Rock Brewery
Join Luther alumni and friends in the Decorah area for an informal happy hour at Pulpit Rock Brewing Company. Members of Luther’s Board of Regents will speak at 6 p.m.
This is a great opportunity to network with the Norse community in the Oneota Valley, meet old and new friends, and hear about the latest happenings at Luther College. No RSVP is required, just mark your calendar, grab a friend, and join us!

Center Stage Series: Catalyst Quartet
2026-02-13 19:30 - 21:00 | Center for Faith and Life, Main Hall
Hailed by “The New York Times” as “invariably energetic and finely burnished,” the Grammy-winning Catalyst Quartet is in wide demand around the world. Known for its unequaled unity and execution, the ensemble is equally committed to celebrating composers of color whose works have been overlooked by the traditional canon.
PURCHASE TICKETS
The Center Stage Series is made possible by the generous support of major season sponsors, including Decorah Bank and Trust, Emplify Health by Gundersen, Kurtich Endowment for Campus Programming, Minnesota Public Radio, Torgerson Center for Nordic Studies and Vesterheim Museum.

Faculty Artist Series: Andrew Whitfield, voice
2026-02-14 16:00 - 17:00 | Jenson-Noble Hall of Music, Noble Recital Hall
Faculty member Andrew Whitfield will perform a recital in the Noble Recital Hall at 4 p.m.
Watch the livestream on the Music Department YouTube Channel

Center Stage Series School Performance: Pete the Cat
2026-02-17 10:00 - 11:00, 2026-02-17 12:30 - 13:30 | Center for Faith and Life, Main Hall
Recommended for K-3rd grade.
Presented by TheaterWorksUSA
When groovy Pete the Cat meets the Biddles, he gets the whole family rocking—except for young Jimmy Biddle, the most organized second grader on the planet. But it turns out that Pete and Jimmy both have a little something to learn about inspiration. Join them on their adventure of friendship, all the way to Paris and back in a VW bus!
To reserve tickets from your school, please contact Bradley Phillips, phillibr@luther.edu, or 563-387-1293. Community members are welcome as space allows.
Sponsored in part by the Kurtich Endowment for Campus Programming.

Faculty Artist Series: Amy Nam, harp
2026-02-19 19:30 - 20:30 | Jenson-Noble Hall of Music, Noble Recital Hall
Music faculty member Amy Nam will perform a harp recital in the Noble Recital Hall at 7:30 p.m.
Watch the livestream on the Music Department YouTube Channel

Benefactor's Organ Recital
2026-02-22 16:00 - 17:00 | Center for Faith and Life, Main Hall
The recital is made possible by the William B. Kuhlman Endowment for Organ Performance and the Kathryn Ulvilden Moen Fund for Organ and Church Music.
This event is free and open to the public. No reservations are required.
Watch the livestream on the Music Department YouTube Channel

Center Stage Series: Jazz at Lincoln Center Presents: Great American Crooners
2026-02-28 19:30 - 21:00 | Center for Faith and Life, Main Hall
Get ready for a stylish evening of timeless tunes and world-class talent. Relive classics like “Moon River,” “I Only Have Eyes for You” and “I’ve Got You Under My Skin” alongside incredible true stories about the superstar velvety voices who made them famous.
PURCHASE TICKETS
The Center Stage Series is made possible by the generous support of major season sponsors, including Decorah Bank and Trust, Emplify Health by Gundersen, Kurtich Endowment for Campus Programming, Minnesota Public Radio, Torgerson Center for Nordic Studies and Vesterheim Museum.

Dorian Band Festival
2026-03-01 - 2026-03-02 | Center for Faith and Life and Jenson-Noble Hall of Music
The Dorian Band Festival will take place on March 1 and 2. For more information, please visit the Dorian Band Festival webpage.

Jazz Orchestra and Concert Band Concert
2026-03-01 19:00 - 20:30 | Center for Faith and Life, Main Hall
The Luther College Jazz Orchestra and Concert Band will perform a Dorian concert in the Center for Faith and Life main hall at 7 p.m.
Watch the livestream on the Music Department YouTube Channel

Dorian Band Festival Grand Concert
2026-03-02 17:00 - 18:30 | Center for Faith and Life, Main Hall
The Dorian Band Festival Grand Concert will take place at 5 p.m. in the Center for Faith and Life main hall.
Watch the livestream on the Music Department YouTube Channel

Lifelong Learner Seminar: Life, Love, and Sexual Desire in the Trenches of World War I
2026-03-04 09:00 - 12:00, 2026-03-11 09:00 - 12:00, 2026-03-18 09:00 - 12:00, 2026-03-25 09:00 - 12:00 | Loyalty Hall, Board Room

Emeriti Colloquium: Poems in Context
2026-03-12 15:00 - 16:30 | Baker Commons
Presenters: Carol Gilbertson and Mark Muggli

Faculty Artist Series: Adrianna Tam, soprano
2026-03-13 19:30 - 20:30 | Jenson-Noble Hall of Music, Noble Recital Hall
Luther College faculty member Adrianna Tam will perform a recital at 7:30 p.m. in the Noble Recital Hall.
Watch the livestream on the Music Department YouTube Channel

Faculty Artist Series: Kacy Clopton, cello
2026-03-14 16:00 - 17:00 | Jenson-Noble Hall of Music, Noble Recital Hall
Luther College faculty member Kacy Clopton will perform a recital in the Noble Recital Hall at 4 p.m.
Watch the livestream on the Music Department YouTube Channel

Jazz Band in Marty's
2026-03-15 19:30 - 21:00 | Dahl Centennial Union, Marty’s Cafe
The Luther College Jazz Band will perform a concert in Marty’s Cafe at 7:30 p.m.

Symphony Orchestra Concert
2026-03-19 19:30 - 20:30 | Center for Faith and Life, Main Hall
The Luther College Symphony Orchestra will perform a concert in the Center for Faith and Life at 7:30 p.m.
Watch the livestream on the Music Department YouTube Channel

Jazz Orchestra Homecoming Concert
2026-03-31 19:30 - 21:00 | Center for Faith and Life, Main Hall
The Luther College Jazz Orchestra will perform their homecoming concert in the Center for Faith and Life main hall at 7:30 p.m.
Watch the livestream on the Music Department YouTube Channel

Guest Recital: Khasma Piano Duo
2026-04-01 19:30 - 20:30 | Jenson-Noble Hall of Music, Noble Recital Hall
The Khasma Piano Duo will perform at 7:30 p.m. in the Noble Recital Hall.

Emeriti Colloquium: The Bible: History Or Confession of Faith
2026-04-09 15:00 - 16:30 | Baker Commons
Presenter: Will Bunge

Norskkor and Aurora Concert
2026-04-12 16:00 - 18:00 | Center for Faith and Life, Main Hall
The Luther College choirs, Norskkor and Aurora, will perform a concert in the Center for Faith and Life main hall at 4 p.m.
Watch the livestream on the Music Department YouTube Channel

Concert Band Concert
2026-04-14 19:30 - 21:30 | Center for Faith and Life, Main Hall
The Luther College Concert Band will perform a concert in the Center for Faith and Life main hall at 7:30 p.m..
Watch the livestream on the Music Department YouTube Channel

Center Stage Series: Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain
2026-04-17 19:30 - 21:00 | Center for Faith and Life, Main Hall
Enjoy a musical whirlwind through genres that’s funny, thought-provoking and played entirely on ukuleles. The Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain is always surprising, so come without expectations — except the expectation to laugh.
PURCHASE TICKETS
The Center Stage Series is made possible by the generous support of major season sponsors, including Decorah Bank and Trust, Emplify Health by Gundersen, Kurtich Endowment for Campus Programming, Minnesota Public Radio, Torgerson Center for Nordic Studies and Vesterheim Museum.

Symphonic Band Concert
2026-04-19 16:00 - 17:30 | Center for Faith and Life, Main Hall
The Luther College Symphonic Band will perform a concert in the Center for Faith and Life at 4 p.m..
Watch the livestream on the Music Department YouTube Channel

Percussion Ensemble Concert
2026-04-19 19:30 - 20:30 | Jenson-Noble Hall of Music, Noble Recital Hall
The Luther College Percussion Ensemble will perform a concert in the Noble Recital Hall at 7:30 p.m.
Watch the livestream on the Music Department YouTube Channel

Brass Ensemble Concert
2026-04-22 19:30 - 20:30 | Center for Faith and Life, Main Hall
The Luther College Brass Ensemble will perform a concert in the Center for Faith and Life at 7:30 p.m..
Watch the livestream on the Music Department YouTube Channel

Luther Alumni and Friends Happy Hour
2026-04-23 17:30 - 19:00 | Pulpit Rock Brewery
Join Luther alumni and friends in the Decorah area for an informal happy hour at Pulpit Rock Brewing Company. Representatives from Student Life will speak at 6 p.m.
This is a great opportunity to network with the Norse community in the Oneota Valley, meet old and new friends, and hear about the latest happenings at Luther College. No RSVP is required, just mark your calendar, grab a friend, and join us!

Cathedral Choir Homecoming Concert
2026-04-26 14:00 - 15:30 | Center for Faith and Life, Main Hall
Cathedral Choir will perform their homecoming concert at 2 p.m. in the Center for Faith and Life main hall.
Watch the livestream on the Music Department YouTube Channel
