Staying connected

Over the years, Scene has chronicled PLU's special effort to remain connected to its Norwegian heritage. On several occasions, members of the Norwegian royal family have come to campus. Here, President Anderson shows the Norwegian crown prince, Haakon, a sculpture on lower campus titled “Generations of Oak” during his visit in 1999. The sculpture, created by Kathryn Wold, was dedicated by his mother, Queen Sonja, in 1995.

If nothing else, the editors of Lute publications can be assured of two certainties in life: Mooring Mast readers will always look at the Safety Beat first, and Scene readers will head directly for Class Notes.

Scene readers’ fascination with Class Notes is easy to explain. As alumni move away and begin new stages in their lives, keeping in touch becomes more complicated. In a world where it sometimes seems easier to drift apart than stay connected, Class Notes are the glue that binds PLU’s alumni community together.

DID YOU KNOW… • FIRST SCENE: OCTOBER 1970 • FIRST USE OF FULL COLOR: SPECIAL ADMISSIONS ISSUE IN 1976 • FIRST USE OF GLOSSY PAGES: FALL 1994 • CIRCULATION: 42,980 • NUMBER OF COUNTRIES SCENE IS MAILED TO: 63

Reviewing the 30 years of marriages and births, job promotions and awards that Scene has chronicled, certain patterns become apparent.

First, PLU is a family institution. Couples have announced marriages and the births of their children—and many of those kids themselves become alumni.

Second, PLU is continually growing. While enrollment grows steadily, the body of those who call themselves “Lutes” grows immensely with every entering class—and accordingly, Class Notes grows longer and richer.

The most enduring pattern that emerges is the strength of the PLU community. Class Notes routinely profile gatherings and events that bring together alumni from 20, 30 or even 50 years ago to catch up on busy lives and remember old times.