Valparaiso University Archives & Special Collections

06/23/2026

The countdown is on!

This is the last week to place your CONHP merch order. Grab your favorites before the store closes.

06/22/2026

In Memoriam
William “Billy” L. Foster
June 5, 1947 – June 10, 2026
Department of Music
1980 – 2014

06/22/2026

From Lakeshore Public Media:

We are saddened to learn of the passing of Northwest Indiana jazz legend Billy Foster.
A gifted pianist, composer, educator, and radio host, Billy's lifelong journey in music began at age seven with the gift of a piano. Though classically trained, he found his passion in jazz, becoming a cornerstone of Gary's vibrant jazz community and dedicating decades to performing, teaching, and inspiring future generations of musicians.
Through his music, his teaching, and his enduring spirit as a cancer survivor, Billy showed us that life and music are deeply connected. His impact on Northwest Indiana's cultural landscape will continue to resonate for years to come.
Our thoughts are with his family, friends, students, fellow musicians, and all those whose lives were touched by his extraordinary talent and generosity.
🎹 Rest in peace, Billy Foster. Your music lives on. ❤️

06/22/2026

06/22/2026

NASSAU, Bahamas (June 17, 2026) – Valparaiso men's basketball fans can gain their first look at the 2026-27 Beacons when the squad plays two exhibition games against international competition as part of the 2026 Baha Mar Hoops Summer League, Monday, Aug. 3 and Tuesday, Aug. 4, at the amazing Baha ...

06/22/2026

We are pleased to introduce Chris Rechsteiner as a member of our 2026 Guild Board of Directors.🎉 A 1993 graduate with degrees in Psychology and Theater and Television Arts, Chris fondly remembers touring with Soul Purpose, the university’s chancel drama group, and portraying Joan of Arc in The Lark.🎭

Following graduation, Chris served in both the nonprofit sector and full-time family ministry, ultimately discovering a calling that combines her passions for faith and inclusion. Today, she serves as Disability Minister at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, where she helps individuals of all abilities grow and thrive within the church community.

In addition to her ministry work, Chris enjoys teaching theater to young people and using the arts to foster confidence, creativity, and connection. As a first-generation college student, she credits her Valpo experience with helping shape her vocation and purpose, transforming challenges into a lifelong commitment to service and inclusion.🤎💛

06/22/2026

06/22/2026

Valpo Organ Studio (2026) with Dr. Haruhito Miyagi.

Did you know that students at Valpo from beginners to advanced players can study organ and play on the magnificent Reddel Memorial Organ in the Chapel of the Resurrection? Interested students can inquire via email at [email protected]

06/22/2026

The success of the College of Nursing & Health Professions has always been about people who believe in our students, our faculty, and our mission.

By establishing the Faculty Excellence Fund for Advancing Health Care Education, Dr. Ed Koschmann '59 is investing in the future of healthcare education and the innovative learning experiences that set a Valpo education apart.

From promoting innovation in aging and dementia care to creating opportunities for faculty development, undergraduate research, and hands-on learning, Dr. Koschmann's investment will have a lasting impact on our college and the healthcare professionals we prepare.

Valparaiso University President Rev. Brian Konkol and Dean Elizabeth Gmitter had the opportunity to meet with Dr. Koschmann in California last week. We are grateful for his partnership and dedication to the future of healthcare.