Paul J. Dovre Retires as President of Concordia College

     CHICAGO (ELCA) -- After 24 years as president of Concordia College, Moorhead, Minn., Paul J. Dovre, 63, will retire at the end of the current 1998-1999 academic year.  Concordia is a college of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA).
     Dovre is the eighth president in the 107-year history of Concordia. He is the longest-serving president of the ELCA's 28 colleges and universities and one of the longest-serving presidents of any American college or university.
     Dovre announced his retirement at an academic workshop for faculty and staff Aug. 28.  "The college's vital signs are strong and that makes this a good time for leadership transition," said Dovre.  "We have strong and experienced board of regents leadership, which is an especially significant element in the selection of a new president."
     After graduating from Concordia in 1958, Dovre earned a master's degree and doctorate in speech and communication from Northwestern University, Evanston, Ill.  He taught at Northwestern and attended Luther Seminary, St. Paul, Minn., before returning to Concordia and joining the faculty in 1963.  Prior to becoming president of the college, Dovre served as Concordia's dean and academic vice president for five years.  He is the dean of Minnesota private college presidents.
     "Dr. Paul J. Dovre succeeded a giant, Dr. Joseph L. Knutson, in 1975 when he undertook his responsibilities as president of Concordia College in Moorhead, Minn.  But Dr. Dovre was equal to the challenge," said the Rev. Lowell G. Almen, secretary of the ELCA.
     "Throughout his presidency that represents nearly a quarter century at the helm, he has demonstrated titan-like leadership and profound vision. He has made certain that Concordia College will continue to reflect a strong academic program, have a solid financial footing, and demonstrate an abiding commitment to being a college of the church," said Almen.  "For his untiring efforts and conscientious service, people throughout the ELCA, and especially individuals with direct ties to Concordia College, are heartily grateful to him."
     Dovre recently completed service on the board of directors of the Council of Independent Colleges and currently serves on the board of the National Association of Independent Colleges and Universities.  In recognition of his achievements, Dovre was named one of the nation's top 100 college and university presidents -- in a study conducted at Bowling Green State University, Bowling Green, Ohio -- placing him in the top three percent of the nation's college presidents.  Dovre was named 1998 Outstanding Executive of the Year by the Association of Lutheran Development Executives.
     Dovre is currently leading Concordia through its fourth major capital campaign drive, which has raised more than $150 million.  In addition to providing a significant source of student scholarships, these efforts have financed the construction of the Olson Forum, Centennial Bell Tower, and the renovation and enlargement of Hvidsten Hall of Music.
     "The 21st Century Fund capital campaign, though incomplete, is nearing its goal and I will have the coming year to invest considerable time in achieving our objectives," said Dovre.  "Most significant for the college is that we will soon complete Blueprint IV, our long-range plan. It makes sense that the president who will lead the college through the next decade should preside over the preparation of the blueprint for that decade."
     In 1996 Dovre received honorary degrees from Luther and Wartburg College, two schools of the ELCA.  He was recognized in 1993 as Knight First Class, Order of St. Olaf, the highest award given by Norway to individuals of Norwegian descent living outside of the country.
     "President Dovre's exemplary leadership and service reflect the sincere love, dedication and commitment he has for the church, education and society.  His contributions have had meaningful and positive effects on our church, educational institutions and lives for years to come," said Cheryl Chatman, ELCA assistant director for colleges and universities.
     "Paul Dovre's leadership has made Concordia one of the most respected colleges in this country," said Ronald Offutt, Fargo, N.D., chair of the Concordia Board of Regents.  "His foundation is rock-solid, his commitment to his work never strays off course and his heart is always in the right place.  To say that these are big shoes to fill would be an understatement. Dr. Dovre leaves us with a legacy that positions Concordia College extremely well for the future."
     Dovre and his wife, Mardeth, plan to remain very active in retirement.  He said, "Projects on our agenda include some writing and service activities along with more time for travel, reading and family.  We both look forward to the serendipitous along the way."

For information contact:
Ann Hafften, Director 1-773-380-2958 or NEWS@ELCA.ORG
http://www.elca.org/co/news/current.html