In this photo: Bridget Whitney, Bank Midwest; Johanna Fischer, Benjamin Schaefer, Matthew Doering, MLC/ECLC; Sarah Siefert, Citizens Bank MN

The Willkommen Committee of the New Ulm Area Chamber of Commerce recently visited Martin Luther College (MLC) and its affiliate Early Childhood Learning Center (ECLC) to welcome several new teachers and childcare providers. Of the nine new hires, three were present to meet with the committee.  Additional new faculty and staff not present at the visit include Malachi Mortensen, Holly Dannecker, Amanda Gerdts, Kristi Ringen, Hannah Ellingboe, and Dale Witte.

Johanna Fischer is a lead preschool teacher at the ECLC. Originally from Wisconsin, Johanna graduated from MLC in 2021 and has spent the past four years teaching in her home state before returning to New Ulm.

Matthew Doering, a DMLC (now MLC) graduate, also returned to New Ulm for his new role. He brings nearly 30 years of teaching and coaching experience from Arizona and Wisconsin and is excited to return home. He will be teaching social studies at MLC, as well as coaching football and assisting with softball under the leadership of his daughter. Matthew and his wife have three children – all MLC graduates.

Benjamin Schaefer, another MLC graduate, grew up in Minneapolis and will be teaching Hebrew, the language of the Old Testament. Over the past 20 years, Benjamin has served as a pastor in Wisconsin and lived in California. He and his wife, also an MLC alum, have five children – all of whom are MLC graduates as well.

Martin Luther College is located at 1995 Luther Court. If you’re interested in learning more, visit their website or call (507) 354-8221.

Congratulations and welcome to all new faculty!