Concordia University Irvine Alumni

CLASS OF 1980 — 50 Years of Friendship and Faith 💛

From classmates to lifelong friends.

What began as a small inaugural class has grown into something truly lasting — 50 years of friendship, faith, and shared memories.

Through every season of life, these bonds have remained strong, rooted in a shared purpose and deep connection to one another.

“I especially appreciated hearing how God has been working in their lives to share the gospel and Jesus’ love,” shared Cathy (Meyer) Leinhos ’80.

Here’s to 50 years of walking together — and to a legacy that continues to inspire future generations. 🦅

📸 Top row (left to right): Mark Brighton, Curtis Smith, Alan Rosnau, Linda Rosnau, and Rob Den Ouden.
Bottom row: Michelle Brighton, Bob Rossow, Kim Grewe, and Cathy Leinhos.

1980 • Robert Rossow

For Robert Rossow, attending was about much more than earning a degree. It was a time of spiritual growth, lifelong friendships, and discovering his calling.

“Academically, I grew thanks to the attentive faculty. Spiritually, the regular chapel attendance and integration of Christian theology into every discipline were transformative.”

As a member of ’s first graduating class in 1980, Robert majored in philosophy and prepared for seminary, following in the footsteps of his family’s legacy in ministry. He later returned to Concordia as an assistant professor, serving students for 15 years.

Concordia also became the place where Robert met his future wife, making his time on campus even more meaningful.

“It was a formative experience that I look back on fondly.”

As we celebrate 50 years, we are honored to share stories like Robert’s that reflect the faith, learning, and lifelong connections that have shaped from the very beginning.

This was the view that welcomed Concordia University Irvine’s first graduating class nearly 50 years ago.

One building, rolling hills, and a vision rooted in faith, learning, and community.

Today, generations of Golden Eagles continue to shape the story that began right here. 💛🦅

Save the dates!! 🎶 Our FREE Concerts on the Green series is back this July at Concordia University Irvine! Grab a blanket, bring some friends, and join us for summer nights on campus!

For 50 years, students have walked countless paths at Concordia University Irvine.

From classrooms to chapel, every journey has helped shape the story.

What part of your journey at Concordia University Irvine was meaningful to you? 💛

📸 Students making their way to Good Shepherd Chapel

1979 • Conni Schramm

When was just beginning, Conni (Guntert) Schramm chose to become part of something new. ✨

From studying theology and education to working in the business office, Conni experienced the close-knit spirit that shaped Concordia’s early years.

“We lived in apartments right on the beach and were bused in and out each day.”

What she remembers most is the community.

“The best part was the tight-knit community. Everybody knew each other, and the professors were so attentive and kind.”

Concordia also became the place where she met her husband, Rev. Dr. Martin Schramm, one of the university’s founding faculty members. Together, they shared 23 wonderful years of marriage and a deep love for the community.

Today, Conni remains grateful for the lifelong friendships and support Concordia continues to bring.

“It will always hold a special place in my heart.” 💛

As we celebrate 50 years of , we are honored to share stories like Conni’s that reflect the faith, friendship, and community that have shaped Concordia from the very beginning.

Two weeks ago, the Class of 2026 officially joined the family. ✨🎓

From proud smiles to unforgettable moments with family, friends, and the Concordia University Irvine community, these snapshots capture just a few of the memories from commencement as our newest Golden Eagles stepped into their next chapter. 🦅

Your Concordia story doesn’t end at graduation. This is just the beginning! ✨

Here’s to new beginnings, lifelong friendships, and the journey ahead. 💛

From Concordia Irvine’s very first men’s basketball team to today’s program, basketball has been part of Concordia University Irvine from the very beginning. 🏀

At just seventeen, Lonnie Karges made a life changing decision, choosing college over an opportunity to try out for the St. Louis Cardinals. As a first generation college student and member of Concordia’s very first graduating class, then known as Christ College Irvine, Lonnie discovered opportunities that would shape his life and leadership.

During his time at Concordia University Irvine, Lonnie helped start the school’s very first basketball team, learning firsthand how to organize schedules, secure uniforms, coordinate transportation, and build something from the ground up.

“The leadership opportunities I was able to gain were truly invaluable.”

From those early beginnings to today, CUI Athletics Basketball has grown tremendously, earning 10 conference championships while continuing the legacy built by students like Lonnie. 👏