May 5, 2003

CHICAGO - The Rev. Thomas W. Thomsen, president of Concordia College, Moorhead, Minn., announced his resignation at an April 28 news conference. The board of regents accepted his resignation effective July 1, according to a news release issued by the college. The board will form a transitional team to select an interim president and begin a search for president, the release said.

Concordia College is one of the 28 colleges and universities of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA), based here.

"When Barb and I arrived on this campus in 1999, we knew it was a very special place. It still is, and we are confident it always will be," Thomsen said. "The mission of Concordia is one we both embrace. Much of our work here was to interpret that mission and lead the campus into the future through the strategic planning process, which has been accomplished.

"The plan has seen much success through this initial phase, including the advent of faculty development resources, new academic programs, design of a new campus center, a new residence hall (pending bids) and construction of a new fitness addition to the Olson Forum," he said. "We leave knowing the campus is poised to bring in a new president to continue this momentum."

"We are grateful for both Tom and Barb's commitment to faith and learning, the foundation upon which Concordia is built," said Ronald Offutt, Fargo, N.D., board of regents chair. "The college is positioned in strength, as we look to the future. We appreciate the leadership President Thomsen has given. As Barb and Tom prepare to leave Concordia in July, we honor their service to the college. We wish them God's blessings and the very best as they continue their service in this world."

Thomsen, 49, was inaugurated as Concordia's ninth president in October 1999. He came to Concordia after serving three years as president of Grand View College, Des Moines, Iowa, another ELCA higher education institution.

Thomsen said he and his family will take time this summer to "reflect upon our next endeavor, of which there are many to consider."

"We leave this campus with wonderful memories of the students and alumni who have touched our lives, and the talented faculty and staff who are truly blessed by God to carry out Concordia's mission," he added.

ELCA News Service