In 1991 the Lutheran Schools Association of New York recognized Melvin Kieschnick with its annual Educator of the Year Award. The citation included the descriptive words: Enricher, Encourager, Executive Par Excellence, Enabler, Example. Those carefully chosen words truly exemplify the life and ministry of Dr. Melvin Kieschnick, a man of God who has dedicated his life to the ministry of Christian education.

Mel’s ministry to people began in California and continued in places such as Hong Kong, Michigan, St. Louis, New York and after retirement back to California. He served as teacher and principal; as missionary to Hong Kong; as Superintendent of Schools for the Michigan District; as Executive Director for the Board for Parish Services; as Vice President, Effectiveness Training; as Executive Director of the Lutheran Schools Association of New York and Staff Associate for the Center for Urban Education Ministries and staff associate for Wheat Ridge Ministries.

Mel has been a mentor and friend to all in Lutheran education and deserves our utmost respect and gratitude. We are pleased that this lecture in his honor shall be presented annually through the auspices of the Center for Urban Education Ministries, of which he continues to be an integral supporter and advisor.

Kieschnick Lectures

Christ with the Children in the Metropolis
The 2008 Kieschnick Lecture, Chicago
The Reverend Dr. Stephen Paul Bouman
October 9, 2008