Her leadership will expand school partnerships and support the next generation of educators
Concordia University Wisconsin’s School of Education welcomes back Dr. Kathryn Baganz (’03) in a leadership role that strengthens both its mission and reach.
Baganz rejoins the full-time School of Education team as director of Academic Partnerships and Outreach. In this role, she will oversee clinical placements across all initial licensure programs. She will also serve as assistant director of the post-baccalaureate Master of Science in Education program (CAPTL), supporting adult learners pursuing their calling as educators.
After eight years as a high school principal at Lake Country Lutheran High School, Baganz returns with a deep commitment to Christian education, leadership and the preparation of future teachers. Her return reflects more than a professional transition. It reflects a calling.
A Mission-Driven Return
Baganz returns to Concordia with a clear sense of purpose.
“I have always appreciated that the staff and faculty of the School of Education genuinely care for their students and seek to glorify God in all they do,” she said. “I am excited to be part of a team that uplifts others, shares the light of Jesus, and encourages our students to do the same as they prepare for their calling as educators.”
That same commitment shapes how she approaches her work each day. With a passion for learning, she looks forward to supporting new and experienced educators as they grow in their roles.
In her new position, Baganz will lead efforts to build and sustain partnerships with schools and educational organizations. She sees this work as an opportunity to engage directly with educators and develop practical solutions that respond to the evolving needs of today’s classrooms.
Her experience as a school leader shapes her perspective. While many challenges are shared across education, she recognizes that each school community brings its own context and strengths. That understanding guides her collaborative approach as she works with leaders to identify common ground and strengthen their schools.
Through these efforts, Baganz aims to foster connections that support educators and, ultimately, the students they serve.
Supporting adult learners
Baganz will also support Concordia’s CAPTL program, which serves working adults and career-changing educators through a flexible online format. Designed to meet students where they are, the program allows learners to continue working while pursuing educator licensure.
She hopes to further elevate how the program values adult learners’ experience. “I look forward to strengthening the ways the program recognizes the expertise adult learners bring from their previous work experiences,” she said.
Faith and a full-circle moment
At Concordia, faith is central to the student experience, and Baganz carries that perspective into her work.
“Understanding that we are all children of God shapes how I approach my work with future educators and school leaders,” she said. “Recognizing our identity in Christ allows us to focus on unity in our mission and purpose.”
Her return to campus also carries personal significance. As an undergraduate student, she worked in The Write Place; now, her office is located in that same space.
Outside of her professional responsibilities, Baganz enjoys travel and photography, often seeking out places she has not yet experienced.
A welcome worth celebrating
Baganz’s leadership, faith and dedication to preparing future educators will continue to shape the School of Education. Concordia is grateful to welcome her back.
Dr. Adam Paape, assistant dean of Academic Operations, contributed to this article.
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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.