Howie Wennes - In Memoriam
In memory of
The Rev. Dr. Howard Wennes
President Emeritus of California Lutheran University
The Rev. Dr. Howard Wennes has been a treasured member of the Cal Lutheran community. Howie, as he was affectionately known, and his wife Mary have had a long and close relationship with Cal Lutheran, and they have been among the university’s most fervent supporters.
Among his many accomplishments, Howie served on the Board of Regents and twice was asked to be interim president of Cal Lutheran — in 2006 and 2007 — working tirelessly to support the university during times of transition. He was often heard saying “make room for the Spirit” as he encouraged the university to live out its mission, values, and identity.
To acknowledge just some of his many successful efforts, Howie was awarded Cal Lutheran’s Christus Award in 2009 — an award that highlighted his work at strengthening the ties between the church and the university.
Honoring Howie's Legacy
The Wennes family asks those who would like to make a contribution in memory of Howie to consider giving to one of these funds.
David Wennes Memorial Scholarship
Established in memory of Howie and Mary's son, the David Wennes Memorial Scholarship is awarded to Cal Lutheran students majoring in English who have a passion for creative writing or other artistic expression.
Your gift will help make a Cal Lutheran education possible for these talented students.
Mary and Howie Wennes Hunger Leadership Endowment
In 2016, the Wennes family established the Mary and Howie Wennes Hunger Leadership
Endowment, which supports networking and training opportunities for local hunger leaders
in ELCA synods and congregations — particularly through the ELCA World Hunger Leadership
Gathering. ELCA World Hunger depends on the ministry of local hunger leaders in their
communities and congregations.
After he had washed their feet, had put on his robe, and had returned to the table, he said to them, “Do you know what I have done to you? You call me Teacher and Lord—and you are right, for that is what I am. So if I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet. For I have set you an example, that you also should do as I have done to you.
John 13: 12-15