Graduate Named First Female President at Texas Lutheran

The Rev. Ann Svennungsen '77 was recently named the 14th president of Texas Lutheran University in Seguin.

She is the first female president in the university's 116-year history and will succeed Dr. Jon Moline, who is retiring June 30. Svennungsen will begin her duties as president July 1.

In 2003, Svennungsen became president of The Fund for Theological Education, an advocate organization for excellence and diversity in Christian ministry. FTE supports future pastors and scholars through fellowships, a support network, and serving as a resource for educational and faith communities.

"Cultivating young leaders of character to serve God's world has never been more important," Svennungsen says. "I've been grateful to lead The Fund for Theological Education in its work to raise the next generation of young leaders for the church. And now, I'm blessed to have the opportunity to lead a church-related community of higher education that nurtures young people to serve God's world in many ways."

Before joining FTE, she served as senior pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church, Moorhead, and as a pastor in Iowa City and Minneapolis. She is a frequent speaker and writer. In addition to authoring several published articles and Bible study guides, Svennungsen has preached at the ELCA Churchwide Assembly.  She spoke at Concordia's 2006 Symposium.

"Answering this new calling at TLU offers a rare opportunity to share strategies for success between the sectors in which I've served," Svennungsen says. "TLU is a community that wants to make a difference in young people's lives, and that has always been a passion of mine."




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