Springfield, Ohio - Wittenberg University Provost Kenneth W. Bladh was recently named one of 12 fellows for the first Thrivent Fellows Program.

Sponsored by the Council of College and University Presidents of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA), the Division for Higher Education and the Lutheran Brotherhood Foundation, the fellows program aims to identify, encourage, develop and equip qualified senior leaders for leadership positions in ELCA colleges and universities.

Candidates were evaluated on several criteria, including evidence of dedication to the mission and distinctiveness of Lutheran higher education, a strong record of service to academic institutions, a clear potential for top-level leadership, openness to the authentic vocation to lead an ELCA college or university, and commitment to professional development to ensure skills for top-level leadership.

Through an intensive 10-day workshop, set to take place in late June, fellows will gain increased knowledge and understanding of Lutheran college traditions and values, stronger awareness of their own leadership styles, thorough knowledge of key management issues in Lutheran higher education, discernment of personal and professional goals that will equip them to fulfill their calling or vocation, a plan for professional growth and an expanded network of relationships with other ELCA higher education leaders.

Originally from Chicago, Ill., Bladh graduated from Wittenberg University with a degree in geology in 1969. He later earned a master's degree and doctorate from the University of Arizona in 1973 and 1978, respectively. Bladh, who has authored a number of geology and mineralogy publications, currently serves as academic provost and professor of geology at Wittenberg University. He and his wife, Katherine, reside in Springfield, Ohio.