At the intersection of faith, science, and dedicated service, Concordia adjuncts Professor Ben Balsman and Dr. Sarah Elliott embody the transformative power of Lutheran education
At Concordia University Wisconsin and Ann Arbor, our online education programs are strengthened by the dedication and expertise of passionate instructors who serve in Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS) schools. Two such educators embody the faith-filled teaching and high-quality instruction that defines Concordia’s approach to preparing future educators.
Both Professor Balsman and Dr. Elliott teach in our Accelerated Bachelor’s in Education programs. They work with candidates in both Wisconsin and Michigan certification tracks. Their work not only enhances the learning experiences of our teacher candidates but also reflects their deep-rooted dedication to Lutheran education and their ministry in LCMS schools.
Professor Ben Balsman: A Passion for Science and Lutheran Education
Professor Ben Balsman teaches at St. Paul’s Lutheran School in West Allis, Wisconsin. He works with 7th and 8th graders in religion, science, literature, math, P.E., and Spanish. His passion for Lutheran education is deeply personal, shaped by his family’s legacy in LCMS schools. He strongly believes that Christian teachers play a crucial role in furthering God’s Kingdom.
“I was inspired to teach in the LCMS by my grandfather’s trailblazing ministry service and academic career, the guiding and loving hands of my parents, and the impact that LCMS education had on my childhood and adolescence,” Ben shared.
Ben’s heart for ministry extends beyond the classroom. He recognizes the growing challenges that students face today, from social media pressures to the erosion of family support structures. Yet, he sees this as an opportunity to bring the Gospel to students who need it most.
“The role of a Christian teacher is ever-evolving to meet the increasing needs of our students,” he said. “These challenges present incredible opportunities to spread the Gospel and mentor students who are searching for hope.”
Work with Concordia
His experiences in LCMS schools also provide valuable insights for the students he mentors at Concordia.
“I think it’s my job to help future teachers acquire the necessary habits and skills for success, but more importantly, I want them to understand the realities and challenges of teaching today. Teacher burnout is far too common, and many young teachers feel lost and disillusioned early in their careers. I want to give them valuable feedback and guidance that will help them establish long and successful teaching careers.”
Dr. Adam Paape, Assistant Dean of the School of Education, praised Ben’s impact:
“Ben does a great job in supporting our candidates and helping them understand what high-quality science education is all about. His dedication to our program, to his students, and to his ministry in Lutheran education is truly outstanding.”
Dr. Sarah Elliott: A Commitment to Ministry and Mentorship
Dr. Sarah Elliott serves as an 8th-grade homeroom teacher at Trinity Lutheran School in Kalispell, Montana. She teaches Christian Faith, U.S. History, Middle School Science, Leadership, and Study Skills. Her journey into Lutheran education was influenced by faithful mentors who recognized her gifts for ministry and encouraged her to pursue teaching.
“Through involvement in my high school youth group, my DCE and his Lutheran teacher wife saw gifts in me that they encouraged and nurtured, planting the seed that they saw me serving in ministry,” Sarah reflected.
That seed of faith and encouragement led Sarah to a 23-year career in Lutheran education. She has served as both a Director of Christian Education (DCE) and a teacher. Her passion for mentoring students, walking alongside families, and bringing Christ into every aspect of her teaching remains at the heart of her work.
“I get the blessing of ministering to students and their families every single day! Whether it’s praying with my students each morning, worshiping alongside them on Sundays, or simply sharing encouragement, I know that God has called me to this place, at this time, to do His work.”
Sarah’s work in LCMS schools has been profoundly shaped by witnessing the transformative power of Christian education, particularly in moments of baptism and faith milestones.
“The most impactful experiences in my ministry have centered around students and even parents getting baptized! In my previous school, one of my 7th graders desired to be baptized, and it worked out that he was baptized in a lake during our church campout! That moment still stands out to me as a perfect reminder of why we do what we do—God using us to grow His Kingdom!”
Work at Concordia
At Concordia, Sarah brings this same passion into her online teaching. She ensures that candidates receive high-quality feedback and encouragement as they prepare to enter the classroom.
“Adjuncting for Concordia is an opportunity to give back to this profession and ministry, by encouraging future teachers. Even if my students are not planning to pursue church work careers, I still have an opportunity to encourage them to teach and lead with grace. Even in a public school, they can serve in such a way that Jesus shines through them!”
Dr. Paape also spoke to Sarah’s contributions: “Dr. Elliott brings a wide variety of experiences to her teaching, and she has been an incredible asset to our candidates. She provides detailed, high-quality feedback and is highly attentive to our students’ needs. Her presence in both our Wisconsin and Michigan certification programs has made a real difference in how we prepare future educators.”
Faith, Teaching, and Mentorship: The Impact of Lutheran Educators
What sets Professor Ben Balsman and Dr. Sarah Elliott apart is not just their expertise in their fields. They have a deep commitment to Lutheran education as a ministry.
- Ben integrates science and faith. He helps students see the beauty of God’s creation and equips them with tools to navigate the profession without burnout.
- Sarah brings an empathetic heart to her teaching. She encourages future educators to see their vocation as a calling, no matter the school setting.
Both educators embody Concordia’s mission. They ensure that teacher candidates are not only well-prepared for the classroom but also grounded in their calling as educators and mentors.
“Teaching in 2025 is not for the faint of heart, but God is so good and sustains me each day!” Sarah reminds us.
Ben echoes this sentiment:
“I believe Lutheran education is a necessary extension of the Church that plays a crucial role in fulfilling the Great Commission and sharing Christ with those in our communities.”
We are grateful for dedicated instructors like Professor Balsman and Dr. Elliott. They bring experience, excellence, and a heart for teaching to everything they do. Their work ensures that our candidates are well-equipped to serve in classrooms across the country, sharing their knowledge, skills, and faith with the next generation.
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Concordia’s Online Education program is committed to preparing it’s students with a well-rounded, Christ-centered experience. With the help of educators who share Concordia’s mission, we are preparing future educators to have a positive impact on the people in our communities.