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PLU Alumni Online Directory - Bjug Harstad Day of Giving Our founder, the Rev. Bjug Harstad, loved this place so much that he trudged through the frozen Yukon in 1898 in hopes of bringing home gold for Pacific Lutheran Academy. While that didn't exactly pan out, his heroic quest perfectly exemplifies the loyalty of Lutes.

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Please join GOLD and other alumni in making a gift today, , at alumni.plu.edu/bjugharstadday! All gifts made today will be matched dollar-for-dollar up to $25,000, thanks to a generous group of loyal Lutes!

PLU Alumni Online Directory - Bjug Harstad Day of Giving Our founder, the Rev. Bjug Harstad, loved this place so much that he trudged through the frozen Yukon in 1898 in hopes of bringing home gold for Pacific Lutheran Academy. While that didn't exactly pan out, his heroic quest perfectly exemplifies the loyalty of Lutes.

No gold, but Harstad’s moose antlers still hang over the PLU Alumni House fireplace.

In 1898, Harstad launched his 18-month Yukon trek, seeking gold for Pacific Lutheran Academy.

In 1894, 2,000 people attended PLA’s dedication. Harstad gave the opening prayer.

In 1890, Harstad was commissioned to establish a Lutheran academy in Parkland, Wash. He commuted on the Great Northern Railroad until 1891—with a pass from its owner.

In 1877, Harstad married G**o Omli. They had 11 kids—3 were major-league baseball players.

Harstad was ordained as a Lutheran pastor in 1874 and moved to Dakota Territory.

In addition to PLU, Harstad founded 18 congregations, 4 schools and 1 Lutheran synod.

It was the Luther College president who changed Bjug’s last name to Harstad.