Mike and Jana began their journey at Concordia seven years ago when their daughter, Hailee, came here as a freshman. Hailee is now about to complete her junior year at Indiana University, studying elementary education. They have a second daughter, Addison, who is a senior in high school and will graduate this spring. Addison plans to attend the University of Cincinnati and study biomedical engineering and pre-med.
Mike is the owner of Mike Gepfert Homes, building custom homes. Jana is a school counselor at New Haven High School and also coaches the JV girls’ basketball team at Concordia.
“We are excited to give back to Concordia by being co-chairs of the auction,” they said. “Sending our children to Concordia was one of the best decisions that God helped us make and Concordia has been so great for our daughters. Concordia has given both of them strong academic backgrounds to excel at the next level and an opportunity for each to grow in their faith walk. We are excited to help bring in funds to continue this mission for many other students.”
Barb Minger is a 1988 graduate of CLHS and is the youngest of four siblings, all being graduates of Concordia. Her husband, Terry, is from Terre Haute but quickly learned about the strong ties that come through the Lutheran community in Fort Wayne. Their daughter, Abby, is finishing up her junior year at Concordia and they are also looking forward to their son, Evan, beginning as a freshman here next fall.
Barb is a registered dietitian, working as a sales consultant for Gordon Food Services for the past 15 years. Terry is a second grade teacher at Covington Elementary School. He has also spent his time coaching middle and high school basketball.
“It has never been a question for us where our children would receive their education,” they said. “Lutheran schools have provided them with the tools to strengthen their faith and reinforce their desire to serve Christ, as well as other people. The level of academic preparation and success has been proven, as well. We are happy to be able to give back to Concordia as co-chairs of the auction next year. It is an opportunity for us to serve in the task of raising funds to continue the progress that Concordia continues to make.”
They are excited to share that the theme for our 2017 Cadets in Cadence event is Take Me Out to the Ballgame!