Alumni Honorees 2024

Buckles-Hanna Service Award:

Tim Sawyer 

Tim Sawyer, a beloved figure in the Northwestern community, has impacted and captivated thousands of students and audience members while serving as Professor of Music and Director of Choral Activities. With a lifelong commitment to music ministry, beginning at age 16, Tim has enriched the worship experiences of ten diverse congregations, including community, non-denominational, Baptist, Covenant, Lutheran, Congregational, and Presbyterian churches. His extensive service also includes roles as a professional chorister and cantor at the Cathedral of St. Paul and various Catholic parishes, earning him the affectionate nickname “Tim the Baptist” among his Catholic friends.

Led by Sawyer, the Northwestern Choir is devoted to the highest level of performance and “seeks to sing from the heart and to glorify God in every aspect of their music and life together in Christian community; with a mission to bring the light of Christ through God-honoring, dynamic, choral music.” They do this through concerts, tours throughout the country and world, participation in local church services, and as part of the annual Christmas at Northwestern concerts of worship, for which Professor Sawyer serves as Artistic Director. He also directs the Con Brio Men’s Chorus where he mentors young men as they grow in their faith. 

Currently, as he reflects on over 35 years of service at UNW and embraces his 60s, Tim feels that God is guiding him to relinquish control, empower others, and foster an environment of encouragement and enrichment for his students and colleagues. His journey exemplifies a blend of leadership and humility, demonstrating a profound commitment to uplifting those around him while savoring the process of growth and collaboration. 

Tim is the loving husband of Heidi and proud father of Erika and Emily and the men in their lives, Phil and Grant.

Music & Theatre Hall of Recognition:

Luke Norell ’07 

Luke Norell, honored with the Music & Theatre Hall of Recognition Award, is a distinguished pianist and educator whose career reflects a deep dedication to music and teaching. A Piano Performance major at Northwestern, Luke benefited greatly from the mentorship of Dr. Richard Lange and Dr. Paul Wirth, whose guidance and encouragement shaped his journey. His involvement in the piano studio tour and performances with Professor Kozamchak’s orchestra, including a memorable performance of the 3rd movement of Brahms’ Piano Concerto No. 1 in the 2006 Concerto-Aria Competition winners’ concert, left a lasting impact on his professional development. 

After transferring from the Free Lutheran Bible College, Luke thrived at Northwestern, gaining invaluable experience that propelled his subsequent career. He earned both a master’s and doctoral degree in piano performance from Indiana University, studying under André Watts, and has performed across Europe and the U.S. Highlights of his career include soloing with the Southwest Minnesota Orchestra and Maple City Chamber Orchestra, as well as returning to Northwestern to teach at the Piano Institute. 

Currently, Luke serves as the Lead Piano Instructor at the Goshen College Community School of the Arts and as a Collaborative Pianist at Goshen College, where he also shares a musical partnership with his wife, Mary Rose. Together, they continue to inspire through performance and education. Luke’s commitment to his craft and his community is rooted in his faith, finding a home in both his local church in Goshen and his childhood congregation in St. James, MN. 

Luke and Mary Rose are grateful to be the parents of three children: Lawrence (6), Nicholas (3), and Roselena (1). 

Athletic Hall of Fame:

Taylor Gish ’12 

Taylor Gish is being honored with an induction into the Athletic Hall of Fame for Track and Field. An outstanding athlete during his time at UNW, he racked up seven All-Conference Titles, six UMAC Championships, three NCCAA National Championships, was named an NCCAA All American, and had four top-25 event finishes in DIII National Rankings. Gish broke Northwestern’s school records in the discus, weight throw, and hammer throw. 

With a degree in Kinesiology, his experience at Northwestern played a crucial role in strengthening his faith and fostering lifelong friendships through its Christ-centered education. After a decade of impactful work as a Strength and Conditioning Coach, including a notable tenure as UNW’s strength coach from 2018 to 2022, Taylor transitioned to a new career in the plumbing industry with Hayes Mechanical. He is currently working towards his state licenses, finding fulfillment and greater work-life balance in the trades. Outside of his professional life, Taylor is actively engaged at Plymouth Covenant Church, contributing to the Marriage Ministry, small group leadership, and various church committees. He sees his current journey as a testament to God’s goodness, focusing on loving and serving others as a reflection of his faith. 

He and his wife, Allison (Slagter ’11) are the proud parents of Jude (9), River (8), Milo (5), and Trey (2).

Athletic Hall of Fame:

Karen (Moe ’17) Johnson 

Karen Johnson is being honored with induction into the Athletic Hall of Fame as the all-time winningest player in school history. Johnson led Northwestern to three regular season championships and three-straight tournament titles (2014-16). She was a four-time All-UMAC First Team honoree and back-to-back pick for UMAC Player of the Year to end her impressive career. In 2017, Johnson was ranked in the ITA Central Region top 20 as an individual and finished the year 29-0 at No. 1 singles. She led the Eagles to two-straight NCAA tournament selections and finished her career No. 1 all-time at Northwestern in singles wins (103), doubles wins (90) and total wins (193). 

Majoring in Biology, Karen actively participated in various campus activities including tennis, the Way in the Wilderness Ministry, and served as a Ministry Partner for her dorm hall while also tutoring anatomy. Her Northwestern experience profoundly shaped her life, allowing her to integrate her Biblical education with her passion for tennis, forge lasting friendships, and meet her husband. Currently a Dental Hygienist at Lawson Family Dental, Karen has enjoyed a fulfilling career and played a key role in helping her husband establish a successful chiropractic practice. At The Waters Church in Sartell, MN, she contributes through Women’s Bible Study and the Welcome Team. Karen reflects on her journey with gratitude, recognizing God’s continuous faithfulness and sovereignty as she remains dedicated to pursuing Him throughout her life. 

She and her husband, Elijah ’17, are the brand-new parents of a baby boy, born in September! 

Athletic Hall of Fame:

Kyrie Jorgenson ’11 

Kyrie Jorgenson is being inducted into the Athletic Hall of Fame for her outstanding contributions to Women’s Soccer during her time at Northwestern. Jorgenson was a four-time All-UMAC First Team selection which included three seasons during the NCAA Division III era of the UMAC. During that time, Jorgenson helped Northwestern earn the conference’s first AQ to the NCAA tournament in 2010 after finishing second in goals in conference games. Jorgenson finished her career as Northwestern’s leader in goals (61), points (146) and game-winning goals (17). A Kinesiology major with a minor in Bible and Coaching, Kyrie was deeply involved in various campus activities, including soccer, Campus Outreach, Bible studies, and intramural sports. Her Northwestern experience profoundly impacted her, helping her grow closer to the Lord and navigate both triumphs and challenges with resilience and faith. 

Currently, Kyrie serves as a paraprofessional, substitute teacher, and high school girls’ soccer coach, roles in which she strives to be a guiding light for disadvantaged students. With over a decade of service in education, she has earned her substitute license and remains dedicated to supporting teachers and students alike. Active in Prairie Lakes Church, Kyrie contributes to high school youth groups, Sunday school, and the Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) women’s Bible study, while also leading soccer teams to Fields of Faith events. Her faith journey continues to be one of trust and strength, as she seeks to initiate an FCA huddle group at her high school and remains guided by God’s presence in her life.

Athletic Hall of Fame:

2010 Men’s Basketball Team 

The 2010 Men’s Basketball Team at University of Northwestern – St. Paul is being celebrated with an induction into the Athletic Hall of Fame for their remarkable achievements and exemplary representation of the University. 

With an impressive overall record of 22-7 and a conference record of 13-1, they were crowned UMAC Regular Season Champions and clinched the NCCAA Division I National Championship. Their path to victory was marked by triumphs over two NAIA DI teams and one NCAA D2 team, showcasing their exceptional skill and determination. 

Their commitment extended beyond the court, highlighted by a meaningful basketball missions trip to Argentina in May 2010. Reflecting on his time as their coach, Tim Grosz said, “The passion, unity, humility and thankfulness this team played with was special. They represented Christ and this University well on and off the court. It is very rewarding to see how they continue to serve the Lord in their homes, careers, churches and communities. What a blessing it was to coach each one of these players!” 

Rising Eagle Award

Austin ’17 & Connor ’19 Bartz 

Austin and Connor Bartz, founders and owners of Bartz Snow Sculptures and Bartz Lawn & Landscape, exemplify exceptional community service and leadership. Each year, the brothers dedicate their time and resources to creating elaborate snow sculptures that draw tens of thousands of visitors to New Brighton. Their commitment extends beyond artistry; recognizing their platform’s potential, they began soliciting donations for a clean water charity. To date, they have raised over $185,000, which has been used to provide clean water to communities in need around the globe. This initiative reflects their deep-seated faith and aligns with the principle from James 2:15-17, demonstrating that their works of charity serve as a practical outpouring of their faith. 

Their innovative approach to business, honed through their education at Northwestern, has also led to significant growth and recognition in their field. Highlights of their career include features on major media outlets and a growing team at Bartz Lawn & Landscape. Both brothers remain active in their respective churches— Emmaus Church in White Bear Lake for Connor, and Vertical Church in St. Paul for Austin—where they contribute to small groups and building maintenance. 

In their personal lives, Connor is embracing his new roles as a husband to Laiken and father to Brooks, while Austin treasures his role as an uncle. Their ongoing commitment to community and faith serves as a testament to their dedication to both their work and their walk with the Lord.

Eagle on Mission Award

Rebekah (Wilder ’11) Kepha 

Rebekah (Wilder) Kepha, recipient of the Eagle on Mission Award, has made remarkable strides in her career and personal life, deeply rooted in her experiences at the University of Northwestern – St. Paul. With a major in Intercultural Studies and a minor in Children and Family Ministry, Rebekah was actively involved in campus life, serving as a Student Activities Committee member and leading worship in chapel. Her Northwestern journey not only shaped her academic and social experiences but also laid the groundwork for her impactful nonprofit work. 

As the Founder and Director of Hope Station, Rebekah has turned her childhood dream into reality by establishing an orphan care ministry in China. Since 2015, she has dedicated herself to improving the lives of children and families through innovative programs, transitioning to Family Strengthening Care after local orphanages closed their doors to external services. 

Now based in Birmingham, AL, where she and her husband, Jonathan, are active members of Citizens Church, Rebekah continues to embrace new adventures with faith and resilience. She remains committed to her mission and is currently navigating the exciting journey of adoption, trusting in God’s guidance every step of the way.