Unveiling of Koehler Department of Business Sign

On February 6th, Concordia University held a special ceremony unveiling a new sign for the Paul H. and Mary Ann Koehler Department of Business. The sign is prominently displayed in a space brimming with Concordia business students inside the Dunklau Center for Science, Math and Business. 

In March 2022, Concordia Nebraska announced the Koehlers’ endowment gift of $2.5 million given to support the business department, marking the largest individual endowment gift in university history. The couple has previously supported Concordia by creating an endowment for education scholarships, providing matching contributions to the Concordia Fund, and donating the Vernon H. Koehler Memorial Clock in Founder's Plaza. Both Paul and Mary Ann Koehler have enjoyed successful business careers after graduating from University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL) College of Business.  

“Mary Ann and I would like to have this endowment feed the dream here at the business department at Concordia University, Nebraska,” said Paul during the ceremony, attended by Concordia’s President, Foundation Directors, business department faculty, students, and special guests of the Koehlers. 

Holding signs with messages of appreciation, Concordia business students lined the halls of the Dunklau Center and thanked the Koehlers with applause and handshakes as the couple entered the building. On behalf of the university, Todd Johnson, assistant professor of business administration, gave the Koehlers a small replica of the sign as a keepsake. 

“Because of your generosity, you make it possible for me and so many others to pursue higher education,” said junior business student Joel Baker to the Koehlers. “This endowment will impact lives both academically and spiritually for generations to come. Again, we just thank you both so much for your contribution to the business department and cannot tell you enough how grateful we are.” 

The unveiling ceremony was followed by a reception for the Koehlers, students and faculty in the Dunklau Center lobby.