R14.3 Concordia University, Nebraska

R14.3

Concordia University, Nebraska Greetings from Concordia University, Nebraska (CUNE) where we continue our joyful work of equipping men and women for lives of learning, service, and leadership in the church and world. In the spirit of the 2026 Synod convention theme, Christ Is Risen Indeed (1 Cor. 15:20–22), we give thanks that hope in the resurrected Christ continues to shape our students, strengthen our mission, and sustain our shared service to families and churches of the Synod and their neighbors who are sympathetic to our confession.

A. Enrollment CUNE continues to experience significant enrollment growth, reflecting a strong interest in Christ-centered higher education. Last fall, the university welcomed 1,281 undergraduate students, along with 422 graduate students pursuing advanced degrees. The university also celebrated substantial growth in its dual credit program, which now serves 2,038 high school students across 43 schools in the United States and internationally.

2026 Convention Workbook 91 OFFICER, BOARD, AND COMMISSION REPORTS New academic communities will continue to develop innovative approaches to formation, mentorship, and vocational preparation, ensuring students are equipped with the knowledge, faith, and skills to serve in schools, congregations, or wherever God leads them.

A defining emphasis for the years ahead is the vision of a higher education community whose first loyalty is to the Scriptures—an increasingly rare but urgently needed orientation in modern higher education. This commitment will continue to shape every discipline and professional field, guiding how CUNE forms students for thoughtful, faithful engagement in the church and world.

This scriptural foundation also informs CUNE’s long-term aspiration to be a year-round, lifelong learning Lutheran university that supports Christians not only during their undergraduate years but throughout every stage of life and vocation. Through academic programs, continuing education, and emerging initiatives, CUNE seeks to extend learning, formation, and discipleship across the full span of a Christian’s service in home, congregation, and commu - nity.

The university’s outreach through institutes and centers will likewise continue to grow, offering research, resources, and train - ing that strengthen Lutheran identity, support congregational vitality, and equip leaders for service in both local and global contexts.

Finally, CUNE remains committed to raising up the next generation of church workers, responding faithfully to the Synod’s call to support Lutheran ministries through robust recruitment, formation, and scholarship programs. Guided by the principle of Christ-cen - tered education in service to the church, the university looks for - ward to continuing to partner with the Synod in forming leaders who will impact congregations, schools, and communities for years to come.

Bernard D. Bull, President