In June of 2016, “Can’t Stop The Feeling!” by Justin Timberlake, fresh off the Trolls movie soundtrack, was climbing the music charts, Great Britain had begun their historic exit from the European Union, LeBron James and the Cleveland Cavaliers had finally secured their first (and only) NBA championship, and I had just been elected to the Free Lutheran Bible College Alumni Committee as second vice president.
At the time, FLBC was still called the Association Free Lutheran Bible School. I had graduated five years earlier. I was a young man, recently married, and still getting my bearings in the realm of committees and leadership. My only prior experience in these areas was serving on the AFLBS Student Council. I had never used Robert’s Rules of Order or drafted a proposal. I didn’t feel particularly confident or qualified when I was first elected, but I was thankful to be surrounded by gracious and knowledgeable committee members who patiently taught me.
Pastor Micah Hjermstad was elected to his second term as committee president at the same time, and he would become both an example and mentor to me. Micah and the 12 other alumni I had the privilege to serve alongside during my tenure showed me what it means to support our Bible college with purpose. The Alumni Association’s goal to support students, engage alumni, and provide meaningful support for the school was being carried out. Events like the Christmas Coffee House, Alumni Basketball Tournament, Alumni and Friends Day, and regional alumni picnics were either organized or supported by the committee, all with the goal of connecting alumni back to the Bible school and directing resources toward student needs.
In 2018, the alumni committee proposed a significant modification: changing the Alumni Association from a dues-based membership model to open membership. This meant anyone who attended the Bible college could be part of the Alumni Association. The proposal was accepted by the greater Alumni Association, and our constitution and bylaws were updated accordingly. At the same time, we launched alumni initiatives aimed at specific needs. These initiatives have included fundraising for a gospel/summer team van, choir robes, a practice piano, patio furniture for the Student Life Center, dorm furniture upgrades, and student scholarships.
The nine years I spent on the Alumni Executive Committee, as second vice president and then as president, have been some of the most rewarding years of my life. God changed my life and countless others at the Bible College. I believe He will continue to work through our school for generations to come. I’m excited to watch our new president, Amy Dalager, and the current committee continue the work started decades ago: supporting students, encouraging alumni, and expanding the ministry of the Free Lutheran Bible College. Thank you for the ability to serve.
Stephen Quanbeck [FLBC class of 2011] is a member of Solid Rock Free Lutheran, Anoka, Minn.
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