A Message from Dr. Michael Thomas

Vision 2025: Building on a Legacy of Faith and Learning

As Concordia University Irvine looks forward with anticipation to the celebration of our 50th anniversary in 2026, we are filled with immense gratitude for the rich legacy of Christ-centered education we have established. We are also brimming with excitement as we unveil Vision 2025, a transformative building initiative that promises to elevate the student experience and solidify Concordia’s position as the premier Lutheran Christian university in California, the western U.S., and beyond.

This ambitious initiative centers on two cornerstone projects: the complete renovation and expansion of the Concordia University (CU) Center for Worship and the Performing Arts, and the construction of the Golden Eagles Fitness & Training Center. The CU Center, a cherished landmark on campus, has served as a sacred space for worship services and a venue for musical performances and momentous university gatherings since the 1980s. However, its current capacity of 500 attendees can no longer fully accommodate the burgeoning vibrancy of our university community.

The Golden Eagles Athletic Complex represents the other significant pillar of Vision 2025. This complex will encompass two vital structures: a dedicated field house and a multipurpose athletic facility. I invite you to read more about what these new facilities will mean for our campus in the Vision 2025 cover feature article.

We are profoundly grateful for the leadership gift of $25 million that has ignited Vision 2025. Coupled with the generosity of countless other donors, we have gratefully secured 83% of the $45 million project goal. Construction is now well underway, and by the time you receive this issue of Concordia Magazine, these magnificent structures will be steadily rising from the ground. And as always, we aim to raise the monies necessary to complete these projects with no long-term indebtedness. We ask that you prayerfully consider a gift to Vision 2025, as we look forward to this celebration!

We invite you to join us at the culmination of Vision 2025 in 2026. Mark your calendars and plan to be a part of the momentous ribbon-cutting ceremonies, as we dedicate these exceptional new facilities on the historic occasion of Concordia’s 50th anniversary. Together, we will witness the flourishing of a vibrant future for Concordia University Irvine. Thanks be to God!

For His Students,

Michael A. Thomas, Ph.D.