Annual event at CUW highlights leadership, faith and academic excellence across business programs.
On an April evening along the Milwaukee River, the Batterman School of Business gathered to celebrate more than academic success. The 2026 Student Awards Banquet brought students, faculty and supporters together at the River Club of Mequon for a night centered on purpose, leadership and faith.
“Thursday we had the privilege of celebrating the achievements of our students,” said Dean Rennicke, assistant dean for external relations. “Alongside their parents, friends, faculty and staff, we recognized their accomplishments. These students are prepared to lead in business and live out CUW’s mission. We are grateful for students who are committed to making a positive impact as they begin their careers.”
The evening began with a welcome and opening prayer, setting a tone that carried throughout the program. As guests shared a meal and conversation, the focus remained clear: honoring students and faculty whose work reflects the values of Concordia.
Rennicke served as emcee, guiding attendees through the evening’s recognitions. As the program continued, Dr. Scott Niederjohn, dean of the Batterman School of Business, centered the event on something deeper than recognition alone.
“Tonight we gather not only to celebrate achievement, but to recognize the deeper purpose that guides it,” he said. “At the Batterman School of Business, we believe that success is measured by the integrity, service and faith that shape our decisions.”
His message pointed students toward what comes next. Challenges will come, he said, and those moments will test both skill and character. A foundation rooted in faith will shape how they respond.
“We are confident that you will lead with courage, act with purpose and pursue excellence in ways that honor both your calling and the communities you serve,” Niederjohn said. “The future of business needs leaders like you, principled, thoughtful and guided by something greater than themselves.”
Recognizing student achievement
The evening highlighted students across disciplines for their academic work, leadership and service.
- Morgan Chyla — Ellis Business Scholar Award
- Henry Dierkes — Financial Studies Student of the Year
- Elizabeth Heller — Sport and Hospitality Student of the Year
- Dalton Hribar — Mentor Initiative Alumni of the Year
- Emma Kaiser — Servant Leadership Award
- Kayla Mulder — American Bicentennial Award
- Mikayla Sells — Qualitative Student of the Year
- Reece Stoltenow — Wiliam Greenville Ellis Student of the Year
Recognizing faculty achievement
Faculty recognition underscored the impact of those who guide students each day. John Fields, assistant professor of business analytics, was named undergraduate business faculty member of the year. The award is determined by student vote and course evaluations.
Even while recovering from a knee injury, Fields remained present. He continued teaching, joined campus events, and supported initiatives such as the university’s AI & Quantum Innovation Lab. His work demonstrates a commitment that extends beyond the classroom.
Called to lead
Throughout the evening, the message remained consistent. Achievement matters, but it is not the final goal. Students are called to lead with integrity, serve with intention, and carry their faith into every corner of their work.
As the banquet concluded, that sense of purpose stayed with those in attendance. This year’s honorees reflect graduates prepared not only for careers, but for lives of meaningful impact.
2026 Student Awards Banquet gallery
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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.