Nominations Now Open for 2025 Distinguished Alumni Awards

The Lutheran School of Theology at Chicago is proud to announce that nominations for the 2025 Distinguished Alumni Awards are now open. Each year, LSTC recognizes exceptional graduates (including those from our legacy institutions) who have faithfully served the body of Christ and made a lasting impact on the church and the world. Award categories include:

• Called to Lead
• Emerging Voice
• Excellence in Parish Ministry
• Faithful Servant
• Lifetime Achievement
• Specialized Ministry
• Witness to the World

This year, we look forward to honoring another class of distinguished alumni. You can access the nomination form here: https://lstc.edu/news-events/awards/ 

Submit your nominations today and help us celebrate those who embody the spirit and mission of LSTC!

Submissions for 2024-2025 are being accepted through Friday, September 6th. Submissions received after that date may be considered for the following award year.

Last year, our seminary honored the following scholars who represented the pinnacle of achievement and service within their respective fields:

• Dr. Christine Helmer, Specialized Ministry Award
  Dr. Helmer, MA ’89, was recognized for her significant contributions to the academy and her global leadership in Luther scholarship. As the Peter B. Ritzma Professor of Humanities and Professor of German and Religious Studies at Northwestern University, she has reshaped our understanding of Martin Luther’s theology and its place in German intellectual history.
  
• Rev. Dr. Cheryl Peterson, Faithful Servant Award
  Rev. Dr. Peterson, MDiv ’91, demonstrated a steadfast commitment to faithful service throughout her career. Currently the Academic Dean at Wartburg Theological Seminary, she has made significant contributions as a pastor, professor, and leader within the ELCA and broader church.
  
• Dr. Syafaatun Almirzanah, Witness to the World Award
  Dr. Almirzanah, PhD ’08, was celebrated for her academic achievements and interfaith leadership. Her work in fostering dialogue among diverse religious communities has transformed the field of interreligious studies, promoting greater understanding and inclusivity worldwide.
  
• Rev. Kimberly Vaughn, Called to Lead Award
  Rev. Vaughn, MDiv ’08, was honored for her leadership within the ELCA and her dedication to promoting inclusion and justice. As pastor of Christ Our Redeemer Lutheran in Jersey City, she continues to engage her community with passion and commitment to the mission of the Church.

Each of these remarkable individuals embodied the values of excellence, leadership, and compassion, inspiring future generations to strive for excellence in service and leadership. 

Now, we look forward to passing the torch to the next class of awardees!