Financial Support

Funding higher education is rising across the board and seminaries are no exception. As a graduate of Luther Seminary, you likely have an interest in its future and the way it impacts the future of the Church.

What Can I Do? Make a Gift Online Your online gift is fast, easy and secure. Give now! Heritage Society The Heritage Society recognizes people who have made estate plan inclusions or qualifying deferred gifts. Explore Stewardship Resources and sign up for the weekly Stewardship e-mail. Questions? Concerns? Comments? msteeber@luthersem.edu 651-641-3448 or 1-888-3LUTHER.

What are some of the challenges facing Luther Seminary:

• In 1980, the ELCA provided 50% of a seminarian’s tuition compared to 13% today
• 70% of Luther Seminary graduates carry educational debts
• The average debt load of graduates is more than $41,500
• Last year’s graduating class had 92 borrowers totaling $3.8 million in student loans
• Luther Seminary relies on gifts and grants from individuals and congregations for 41% of its annual budget
• Tuition and fees account for only 29% of the annual budget

What is Luther Seminary doing to meet financial challenges?

• Luther Seminary is committed to raising funds to help reduce debt through work with congregations, synods, individuals and the ELCA Fund for Leaders in Mission.
• Luther Seminary has developed the Center for Stewardship Leadership, an initiative to create a culture of Financial Stewardship within the Luther Seminary community and for the greater church.
• The Adopt a Seminarian program encourages individuals and congregations to directly support students.
• We help congregations with stewardship programs and educational resources through Stewardship in the 21st Century
• Luther Seminary provides $2.1 million in financial aid to students for tuition

What is the Luther Seminary Alumni/ae Council doing?

• Members have committed to pledging personal gifts toward the Adopt a Seminarian program
• Members ask fellow alums and colleagues in their synods to consider Adopting a Seminarian
• Developed the Heritage Society and most council members participate
• Members are strong advocates for student financial support by churches and individuals