By Joshua Hollmann, Assistant Professor of Theology and Director of the Stephens Initiative for Service Learning, Concordia College

Feb. 17, 2016: "To whom much is given, much is expected is a faith imperative that we take seriously at Concordia," said President Viji George, "and this is precisely why it gives me great pleasure to announce the establishment of the Stephens Initiative for Service Learning on our campus."

The new program is made possible by generous funding from the Stephens Family Foundation, directed to the college by Nick Stephens and Lisa Kunstadter. It will consist of academic study of topics such as social justice, economic sustainability, and globalization, combined with an annual service learning activity for participants to experience firsthand the rewards of working in diverse communities. These life-changing activities will take place in a domestic or international location and will also be open to interested community members.

Rev. Dr. Joshua Hollmann, assistant professor of theology and director of the Stephens Initiative, stated, "This innovative initiative will focus on the head and the heart by combining academic reflection with real-world service learning experiences, instilling in our students a deeply held desire to serve."

The intent of the Stephens family in starting this initiative is to establish an endowment fund that will provide reliable support for the operation and development of the program. In order to raise awareness of the initiative, Concordia will seek to develop ongoing partnerships with local congregations and organizations. "These partnerships will be important to help coordinate and grow participation to foster better understanding of others and thus connect the world," Dr. George added.

"Our families have long valued service to others, especially when it takes us out of our comfort zone and helps us to engage in the world in a meaningful way. When the opportunity presented itself to partner with Concordia to support such a cause, we were more than happy to join hands. Our hope is that this initiative provides meaningful opportunities for Concordia students and members of our community to become more actively involved together," said Nick and Lisa.

The Stephens Family Foundation was founded by Nick's parents, John and Anna Stephens, in 2003, with a focus on both education and cystic fibrosis research and therapy. Nick and Lisa have served on the board since the foundation's inception.

Nick currently serves on the boards of Bennington College and The Bronxville Historical Conservancy and is on the investment committee of Sarah Lawrence College. Lisa is secretary and vice president of the Albert Kunstadter Family Foundation and recently completed her term as board chair of Bridges to Community.

Over the years, one or both of them have been involved with many community organizations, including the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation (Greater NY Chapter), Lawrence Hospital, The Community Fund, The Bronxville School Foundation, Heartsong, the Bronxville Adult School, the Bronxville Field Club, the Junior League, the League of Women Voters, and The Reformed Church of Bronxville.

Pictured here:  Nick Stephens and Lisa Kunstadter.

Photo courtesy Concordia College