CHICAGO — A spirit of giving is being recognized on a national scale for one couple that has given so much back to this community.
Dr. Bob and Sue Dettmer, 1958 and 1960 graduates of Concordia Lutheran High School, are being recognized by ALDE, a national group for Lutheran development professionals, with the 2016 Spirit of Giving Award.
This award recognizes an individual or family who exemplifies generous contributions of service, time and support that inspire others to greater commitment and involvement. Any individual or family involved with an ALDE organization is eligible for nomination for this award. The award is presented each year at ALDE’s IGNITE Conference, which is being held in Chicago this week.
“Sue and I are grateful that the people of the Association of Lutheran Development Executives (ALDE) have chosen us — out of the many others qualified for this award,” Bob Dettmer said. “Concordia Lutheran High School is a special place for our family, and it is our privilege to give back. Sue and I are graduates of CLHS, as are our children, and we are invested in its success!”
Along with being graduates of CLHS and parents of graduates, the Dettmers have been highly invested in Concordia for more than 30 years. Bob serves on the Concordia Educational Foundation Board and has been the driving force behind the high school’s unified development efforts, serving as the chair of the Development Committee. These efforts were crucial in the revitalization of the school’s annual fund, the Cadet Fund.
The Dettmers are strong supporters of the school, including gifts to the Cadet Fund as well as endowed gifts for student scholarships. They also have served as the school’s fundraising auction chairs.
Because of their commitment to Concordia, the Dettmers were awarded the Spirit of Concordia Award in 2007 — an award that has only been presented six times in the history of the school.
“Bob and Sue Dettmer have been instrumental in a variety of roles that have impacted the school’s ability to enhance and promote its mission,” said Terry Breininger, CLHS’ executive director. “Now, the Dettmers are being honored on the national stage for the service they have faithfully provided to our community for decades. Concordia is pleased to be able to play a small role in the recognition being given to Bob and Sue for their lives of service.”
Along with their support of Concordia, the Dettmers provide leadership, support, time and energy to numerous organizations in the community, including Ivy Tech Community College Northeast, Matthew 25, RemedyLIVE, The St. Joseph Community Health Foundation and their church, Emmanuel Community Church.
Concordia Lutheran High School, located at 1601 St. Joe River Drive in Fort Wayne, Ind., was founded in 1935 as a private, co-educational Lutheran high school open to students of all faiths and backgrounds. With Christ at the center, Concordia continues to pursue educational excellence that equips individuals for lifelong learning and service as disciples of Jesus Christ. Learn more at www.clhscadets.com.
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