Retiring in 2021
Pastor Mike Woldt, chair of the MLC Governing Board and former dean of students at MLC, pays tribute to Tom’s service on our campus: “I’ve known Tom Hunter for 30 years. We served together on the faculty of Dr. Martin Luther College prior to the formation of MLC in 1995. Our families lived close to each other along Summit Avenue. We’ve maintained a cherished friendship over the years.
“Tom served faithfully in his call as a professor of English. However, I don’t believe anyone would accuse him of being an ivory tower academic. He has a wide range of interests and abilities. Current students might not know that Tom served as an assistant football coach, drawing on his own background as a student-athlete. He loves camping and spending time outdoors. He possesses enviable skills as a handyman, and he served the community of New Ulm as a volunteer emergency medical technician (EMT), working shoulder to shoulder with the local hospital, police, and firefighters. Most important, he is a dedicated husband, father, and grandfather. Like so many other faithful servants on our campus, Tom brought the whole of his Christian faith and life into the classroom.
“I witnessed a renewed ministry passion ignite in Tom when he became involved with international mission work. He pursued personal training in teaching English as a foreign language. He vetted opportunities for graduates to serve in international schools where WELS had a mission presence. He became instrumental in developing the International Services Office and, more recently, crafting plans for the new Cultural Engagement Center. Tom became an advocate for developing a more inclusive culture on our primarily monochrome campus, challenging faculty and students alike to listen and learn from people of diverse cultural backgrounds. He and Lisa led by example, making the Hunter home a welcoming refuge for students attempting to find their way and place in a culture foreign to them.
“As my mind drifts back to the first handshake we shared along Summit Avenue, I will freely admit that I had no clue as to all the blessings the Lord would bring to our church body through Tom Hunter. I just remember thinking, ‘He’s a really nice guy.’ Thankfully, the Lord knew all along!”
In his retirement, Professor Emeritus Hunter looks forward to a slower-paced life of volunteer service to family, friends, and our Father. He plans to finish construction of his house, take long camping trips, and drive a semi part-time. He also looks forward to beginning each morning with “Well, Lisa, what should we do today?” as they finish their coffee.
“If you could leave MLC students with one last message . . .”
“Always remember that God puts people where he wants them, when he wants them there, to accomplish his purpose; so, in all things, pray, praise, and give thanks.”
– Professor Emeritus Thomas Hunter
