Life may have been severely altered this past year, but it certainly didn't stop. And we have the headlines to prove it.
As the Strat Comms team reviewed the stories of 2020 that Concordians viewed the most, some themes began to emerge. This past year certainly held its challenges, but there were plenty of moments worth celebrating, too.
Scroll down to take a stroll down memory lane as you view some of the most read CUW stories of 2020.
Service to the community amidst COVID-19
Concordians demonstrated incredible resolve in the face of the coronavirus pandemic by stepping in to help on the front lines. Here are three headlines that show how.
- Concordia 3D prints needed respirator masks amid coronavirus outbreak
- Falcons on the Front Line
- 6 novel ways Concordia professors are helping battle the COVID-19 pandemic
President Ferry announces retirement—and others, too
President Ferry surprised us all when he announced in September that this would be his last academic year. He was preceded by several other Concordia long-timers. Click on the link below to see who.
- Rev. Patrick T. Ferry, PhD, to retire as Concordia University president
- Concordians react to P. Ferry’s retirement announcement
- Concordia bids farewell to its retirees
Uncommon graduates
Each year at graduation, the Strat Comms team solicits suggestions of “uncommon graduates” to feature in the days leading up to commencement. Three of our grads made the top 20 most viewed stories this year.
- The uncommon educator her found her footing—and fulfillment—after loss
- The uncommon survivor living each day with purpose
- The uncommon optimist soaring through transition
Commencement
Commencement looked a bit different this year. In spring 2020, we pivoted to a Virtual Degree Conferral and in December the university hosted its first-ever Virtual Commencement.
- Announcing CUW’s spring 2020 candidates for graduation
- Concordia’s 2020 Virtual Commencement to feature special guest speaker, Tim Tebow
- Signed, sealed, and blessed
Notable names
Concordians reacted to the big timers—some MLB heavy hitters, a well-known Wisconsin comedian, and a Concordian gone pro.
- Milwaukee Brewers utilize Concordia’s outdoor facilities for closed sessions
- Ope! Charlie Berens to hold virtual show for Concordians
- Former Falcons standout Omar Lowrey named one of top assistants in NCAA Divison I
University achievements and student honors
It’s a great feeling to have your hard work recognized. Perhaps that’s why so many people were quick to check out our Honors List and U.S. News & World Report ranking announcements.
- Concordia moves up in U.S. News & World Report Best Colleges ranking
- Spring Honors List announced by CUW
Responses to COVID, Portland closure
The year 2020 was full of pivots, perseverance, and pulling together. Concordians stayed in touch from afar and tuned in to the major announcements that were shared through the university’s blog and social media channels.
- Uncommon Return: CUW student return plan for fall semester
- A message to all Concordians from President Ferry
- Concordia University Wisconsin works to smooth transition for Portland students
— This story is written by Kali Thiel, director of university communications for Concordia University Wisconsin and Ann Arbor. She may be reached at kali.thiel@cuw.edu or 262-243-2149.
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