John and Lolli Paulsen established this scholarship in 2025 as a way to encourage future educators. Four of their five children and seven of their grandchildren have graduated from DMLC/MLC. Given these strong ties, the Paulsens want to continue to help students, especially those majoring in mathematics and science education. As John writes, “I have always liked mathematics and science and want other people to discover the wonders of God’s creation.”
John and Lolli met at St. Cloud State College and married in 1965. John taught mathematics and physical science in public high schools and received a National Science Foundation grant that allowed him to attend Penn State University, where he earned a master’s degree in earth science. He accepted the call to DMLC in 1971 and immediately began taking the religion courses required to teach at the college.
With the rise of technology in the mid-1980s, Prof. Paulsen was asked to serve as half-time media director in addition to teaching math and science courses. Lolli worked in the DMLC Library. The couple enrolled in night and summer classes at Mankato State University, and each earned a master’s degree in library media education. Later in his career, John became the half-time director of Special Services, now called Continuing Education, while still teaching science courses.
The couple retired together in 2006. They continue to serve MLC as active volunteers—most recently on the MLC Archives Committee.
Paulsen Family Science Scholarship recipients are middle and secondary science education majors with a GPA of 2.75 or better. Preference is given to married students.
Lolli and John Paulsen
