At Concordia University Wisconsin, the Secondary Social Studies Education program equips students to inspire the next generation by fostering an understanding of history, civic competence, and cultural awareness. Among the many aspiring educators is Ben Groll, a remarkable pre-service teacher whose passion for Social Studies is deeply intertwined with his faith and commitment to student growth.
An Exemplary Future Teacher
Ben’s journey at CUW has been marked by his strong work ethic, reflective nature, and dedication to his students’ holistic development. Professor Jonny Balsman, assistant professor of education, highlights Ben’s dedication, saying, “Ben is an exemplary pre-service teacher consistently demonstrating hard work and discernment in his preparation for the classroom. He is thoughtful, detail-oriented, and deeply reflective on both the best practices in teaching and the holistic development of his students as children of God. His future Social Studies students will undoubtedly benefit from his ability to connect historical content to relevant contemporary issues, fostering a more meaningful learning experience. Ben’s passion for teaching and his commitment to student growth make him a valuable asset to the future of education.”
Ben’s preparation for the classroom goes beyond simply delivering content. He strives to create a space where his students can engage with history by connecting the past with the present. Ben’s ability to relate historical events to contemporary issues reflects his desire to make learning relevant and engaging.
Faith and Passion for History
One of the standout aspects of Ben’s experience at CUW his integration of his Christian faith into his teaching philosophy. Ben’s journey is more than just academic; it’s vocational. His strong Christian values guide how he views his students. They are not just learners, but children of God who deserve thoughtful, caring, and ethical guidance. This faith-based approach adds depth to his role as an educator. He provides his students with not only academic instruction but also moral and spiritual support.
Ben reflects on how his faith shapes his approach to teaching:
“As someone who has grown up in church environments, the love of Jesus is inherent to my identity. Throughout high school and into college, I’ve gone out of my way to serve the young people in my community. I’ve coached a wide range of ages and learned that being a mentor comes very naturally to me. It makes me even more eager to enter the classroom.”
As Dr. Betsy Pease, chair of the history department, explains:
“Ben has shown a real enthusiasm for history throughout the duration of his time at CUW. That has made him a joy to have in class and that I know will make him a terrific teacher. He asks really great questions of the past, showing how important history is to concerns we have today. A great example of this is his Senior Seminar project. Ben is researching how the International Olympic Committee and its president responded to global political pressures in the 1940s-1970s, and thus helped shape our current debates about sports, athletes, and culture. It has been a great gift to work with Ben as he develops his vocation for teaching.”
This project showcases Ben’s keen ability to explore complex historical issues and relate them to modern-day conversations. His dedication is not only about understanding the past, but how those events influence our present and future.
What Inspired Ben to Become a Teacher
When asked what motivated him to pursue a career in education, Ben says, “I was inspired by my past teachers. And I love to serve others!”
This simple yet powerful reason underscores his commitment to making a positive impact in the lives of his students.
The Concordia Difference: Faith, Leadership, and Growth
Ben’s choice to attend Concordia University Wisconsin was deeply influenced by the institution’s holistic approach to education.
“I knew it was a renowned program for education. It provided me with the opportunity to become a better teacher. But I’ve also grown as a leader and a Christian,” Ben shares. This combination of academic excellence and spiritual growth has been pivotal in shaping his journey.
Ben also credits two faculty members for their profound influence on his development as an educator. “Dr. Pease has inspired in me an insatiable appetite for all things history and has taught me the complex and nuanced nature of our past. Her vision of our country and our world’s culture has helped me become a better educator. Professor Balsman has also been an amazing example to me for how to be an educator of the whole person. His creative lessons that incorporate character development and faith have shown me just how important it is to include that in one’s lessons.”
When reflecting on his most rewarding experiences at CUW, Ben highlights his relationships with his professors:
“They’ve given me incredible support and have reaffirmed that this is the vocation for me.”
Ben’s involvement in extracurricular activities has also played a significant role in his personal and professional development.
“As a member of the men’s volleyball team and a leader on campus as a former RA, I’ve been able to supplement my education with fantastic character and leadership-building opportunities,” he explains. “These experiences have taught me the skills that will support me as a future professional in the workplace.”
Lessons Learned at Concordia
CUW’s faculty and staff have also provided Ben with support that has shaped his perspective as an educator.
“The faculty and staff have given me hands-on support and incredible accommodations while I pursue my goals. They’ve given me the opportunity to study abroad. That grew my worldview and will help me engage with the diverse students of this country,” he says.
Ben is excited to bring the strategies he’s learned at Concordia into his future classroom.
“I’m really excited to bring diverse lesson planning and creative writing into my classroom. Concordia has taught me so many strategies for learning. The practice we get in student teaching will help me learn just how effective those strategies are.”
Advice to Future Educators
For those considering a future in education at Concordia, Ben offers this advice: “I would tell future students to take the time to speak with Concordia’s faculty if they are on the fence. The energy and genuine kindness they will show you will make the decision very easy.”
Looking to the Future
As Ben looks forward to his teaching career, he is excited to bring his blend of faith, passion for history, and dedication to student development into his classroom. His future Social Studies students will not only learn the importance of historical events but will also understand how those events connect to their own lives. Ben’s ability to foster this kind of meaningful learning experience is what sets him apart as an educator.
Ben Groll’s journey through Concordia University Wisconsin has prepared him well to inspire future generations. His faith and his passion for teaching will undoubtedly have a lasting impact on the students he teaches. The CUW community is proud to support his journey and looks forward to watching him continue to grow and succeed.
To learn more about the Secondary Broadfield Social Studies Education program at CUW and how it can prepare you for a rewarding teaching career, visit CUW’s program overview.
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Concordia University Wisconsin is a Lutheran higher education community committed to helping students develop in mind, body, and spirit for service to Christ in the Church and the world.
— This story is written by Adam Paape, Assistant Dean in the School of Education at Concordia University Wisconsin and Ann Arbor.
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