Concordia University Ann Arbor School of Education

09/19/2026

Not only is Jill a MI Talent Together alum, she is a Concordia University Ann Arbor alum. We are so very proud of you, Jill! God's richest blessings during your first year of teaching!

🍎 Meet Jill VanSolkema, a first-year teacher and Talent Together alumna!

Jill landed her dream position as a Great Start Readiness Program (GSRP) teacher at Grand Haven Area Public Schools —just three days before the school year began!

Now, Jill is loving her first year in the classroom. She says staff have been incredibly supportive, and her class is wonderful. 💚

We’re so glad Talent Together could be part of Jill’s journey into the classroom, and even happier to see her doing what she loves! 🍎✨
Ottawa Area ISD

08/03/2026

Dr. Adam Paape and Dr. Wendy Hardy from the Concordia University Wisconsin and Ann Arbor School of Education are in Chicago for the Google AI Series Higher Education training!

Hosted in partnership with ISTE, the training is bringing higher education leaders together to explore how artificial intelligence can strengthen teaching, learning, and innovation.

One of the highlights has been connecting with our amazing partners from MI Talent Together! We are grateful for partnerships that help us prepare and support educators who are ready to lead, serve, and make a lasting difference.

07/06/2026

As America celebrates its 250th anniversary, Dr. Jim Pingel, dean of Concordia University Ann Arbor's School of Education, reflects on why Independence Day has always held a special place in his heart.

Drawing on his lifelong passion for American history and his Christian faith, he shares why remembering our nation's story and God's faithfulness go hand in hand. His reflection offers a thoughtful perspective on gratitude, freedom, and the enduring importance of history.

Read more: https://blog.cuaa.edu/why-july-4-is-special-to-me-a-lifelong-love-of-history/

07/01/2026

Higher education should open doors, not close them because of cost.

Concordia University Ann Arbor has announced new tuition rates for online undergraduate programs and several graduate programs, expanding affordability for students who are ready to take the next step in their calling.

For working adults, career changers and graduate students, this is meaningful news. Concordia continues to remove barriers while offering Christ-centered education that develops students in mind, body and spirit for lives of service.

Learn more about the new tuition rates and what they mean for online and graduate students: https://blog.cuaa.edu/new-tuition-rates-expand-affordability-for-online-and-graduate-students/

05/20/2026

We are so proud of you, Johanna!

Congratulations to Johanna Bogater on earning a Master of Arts in Science and Curriculum & Instruction from Concordia University, with certification in Lower Elementary Education! 🎓

We are proud to celebrate this important milestone, and it has been an honor to have Johanna in our program.
Concordia University Ann Arbor

05/20/2026

Well done, Emily!

For Emily Colbert, the path to teaching was not always straightforward.

What started with substitute teaching eventually became something more: a calling to help students grow, learn, and prepare for what comes next.

Now nearing graduation from Concordia’s Master of Science in Curriculum and Instruction program, Emily is preparing for a future focused on literacy, student support, and college and career readiness.

Her story is a reminder that sometimes the right path becomes clear when you step into it.

Read more: https://blog.cuaa.edu/a-calling-for-the-classroom-emily-colbert/

05/13/2026

A milestone worth celebrating.

Congratulations to Jillian VanSolkema, one of the first graduates from Concordia University Ann Arbor’s online teacher certification pathway and the first completer connected to the statewide Talent Together apprenticeship initiative.

Jillian’s journey reflects the heart of what great educators do every day—serve students with dedication, compassion, and perseverance. Throughout her coursework, clinical experiences, and student teaching, she demonstrated a deep commitment to the teaching profession and to the learners she will impact for years to come.

We are grateful for the partnership of MI Talent Together and for the many school partners supporting future educators across Michigan.

https://blog.cuaa.edu/jillian-vansolkema-marks-a-milestone-for-cuaas-online-teacher-certification-pathway/

05/07/2026

Congratulations to our School of Education graduates!

05/06/2026

If you are a teacher or know a teacher, read this book. Relationship-building comes first with your students, it will change your teaching forever. No matter what age group you teach!

05/05/2026

Well done, Amanda! We are so very proud of the educator you have become. Keep using your gifts and talents to the glory of God!