Dr. Robert Klindworth

Professionalism is important to Dr. Robert (Bob) Klindworth—in both himself and his students. He says, “I have found the vast majority of MLC master’s students to be dedicated professionals who are genuinely interested in enhancing both their knowledge and skills.” Dr. Klindworth’s experience, education, and leadership demonstrate his own professionalism and make him well-suited to serve on the MLC graduate faculty.

Dr. Klindworth has experience worthy of a professional. “My ministry began in Hadar NE in 1970. I served as principal and grade 4-8 teacher,” shares Bob. His next 40 years of teaching and leadership experiences are varied. He taught grades 5–6 in Lake City MN and also served as athletic director, computer coordinator, and assistant principal. In 1990 he was called to Our Redeemer – Santa Barbara CA, where he and his wife, Martha, were the entire faculty, she teaching K-4, and he teaching 5-8. He has also been the principal at St. Matthew – Winona MN and Minnesota Valley Lutheran High School. Since 2003, Bob has been an education professor at MLC, chairing the education division from 2003 to 2011. He teaches two courses in the graduate program—Supervision of Instruction and School Law.

Bob’s education has contributed to his professionalism. After obtaining his BSE from Dr. Martin Luther College in 1970, he continued his studies at the graduate level. “I took 24 credits toward a master’s degree in Intellectual European History (Wayne State College) but did not finish the program due to a move.” He went on to earn his MA Education from St. Mary’s University – Winona MN and his EdD in Educational Policy and Administration from the University of Minnesota.

Dr. Klindworth’s leadership in many professional organizations reflects well on MLC and also keeps him current with the latest trends in educational research and policy. He is a member of the Minnesota Board of Teaching – Standards and Rules Committee, the Association of Supervision and Curriculum Development, the Educational Administration Research Association, the Education Law Association, and Phi Kappa Phi. He was appointed to the Minnesota Non-public Education Council and currently serves as chair of the organization.

Dr. Klindworth has a love for his family and several hobbies. “My wife and I currently live in North Mankato MN, where we are members of St. Mark,” says Bob. “We have four grown children. Bob, Jr., has his PhD in nuclear physics and teaches at Century College in White Bear Lake MN. Lisa is married to Rick Hermanson, and they live in Madison WI. Mike lives in Winona MN and uses his engineering background in auto body and detailing. Debbie and her family live in Mankato, where she is studying accounting as a second career.

“I enjoy spending time with family and friends,” he continues. “That often combines with golfing, fishing, hunting, and traveling. I enjoy reading a good mystery. My iPod plays Josh Groban and Jamie Slocum music primarily. I’m not sure many people know that I dabble in philately and numismatics. I like collecting stamps and coins/currency.”

Dr. Klindworth sums up his graduate faculty role: “I enjoy teaching and learning with practicing professionals who are part of the MLC master’s program. The relationships formed through this program serve as a blessing to me personally and hopefully serve as a blessing to congregations throughout WELS.”