Ready, Set, Shine: Meet the Class of 2025

This August, Concordia University Texas opens its 99th academic year with one of the largest incoming classes in its history - a remarkable group of students ready to grow in faith, friendship and purpose. As we welcome the Class of 2025, our campus is alive with energy, anticipation and a shared commitment to live out our mission in new and inspiring ways.

Each student brings a unique story and sense of purpose that enriches our community. For some, like Abigail Best, this new chapter is the continuation of a legacy. Abigail's great-great-grandfather, Dr. Henry Studtmann, was Concordia Texas's first president. Now she begins her own journey here, dreaming of becoming a Lutheran teacher and carrying forward the mission that shaped her family. "I think being here will help me strengthen my faith, find good Christian friends and just have a lot of fun," she said.

For others, joining Concordia marks a bold new beginning. Our 2025-26 campus theme, Fearless, drawn from Joshua 1:9 - "Be strong and courageous... for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go" - is a calling that resonates with first-generation students like Alfredo Ramirez, who calls this moment "a huge accomplishment" and a chance to embrace his future with confidence.

Many in this class arrived at Concordia following their passions and talents. Avery Rodriguez found her future through softball, calling her place on the team "a dream come true." Jacob Taylor, who graduated high school early, sees college as "a fresh start" filled with independence and opportunity. And for business major and basketball player Kendall Hilstock, this season is about blending discipline, ambition and service both on the court and in the classroom. His family describes him as humble and self-driven, a leader whose example will inspire others.

Together, these students, along with the hundreds of others who make up this milestone class, are ready to shine their light. They arrive from different walks of life and with different dreams, yet they are united by a shared desire to learn, grow and serve.

As we prepare to celebrate our centennial in 2026, we are reminded that the light of our mission shines brightest when passed from one generation to the next.

This year, that light burns especially bright. We thank God for the privilege of guiding these students through the next chapter of their lives and for the faithful support of our community, which makes their journeys possible. The future is here, and it's fearless.