February 2024
(Reprinted as originally released by the Lutheran Education Association)
Don Gillingham, a Lutheran education veteran, was selected to receive LEA’s Distinguished Retired Lutheran Educator EncourAGING Award.
Mr. Gillingham lives in Loves Park, IL. He officially retired in 2022, having served in Lutheran high schools in Illinois. After formally retiring in January of 2022, he immersed himself in a variety of projects and initiatives related to the improvement of Lutheran schools, later taking on a principal role at Trinity Lutheran in Roselle, IL.
Donald is a graduate of Concordia River Forest, now Concordia University Chicago.
The following statements are testimonies of several educators who were influenced by Don’s leadership and his service upon formally retiring from full time ministry.
“Don has made a great impact on our school ministry by sharing his vision and leading us. He has grown our mindsets and led us to grow ourselves and our school. His passion for Lutheran education shines through every conversation he has with students, families, staff, and stakeholders. His faith has led him to touch many lives throughout his ministry. Don is a tremendously faithful servant.”
“I have had the distinct honor and privilege to work with Don Gillingham and call him my boss. He was my supervisor and mentor. He is distinguished as a leader and in the community when it comes to all things Lutheran, and educational. He is always involved with the lawmaking process when it comes to private school rights, scholarships, and the Lutheran way.”
“Don Gillingham had long career devoted to Lutheran Education in administration and leadership. Don has served as a teacher, director, and principal. A product of Lutheran Education himself, he has a passion for seeing our Lutheran Schools thrive. In addition to the responsibilities of his calling, he also advocated for Lutheran Education at the State level in pursuit of funding and a favorable environment in the education landscape. Recently, an alumnus of Walther Lutheran High School came to our church wanting to return to his Lutheran roots. He had no other prior connection to our church other than that Don had been his principal in high school and Don had made such an impression on him that he simply wanted to be at the same church where Don was serving. Don cares about students, their families, and seeing Lutheran Education growing lifelong disciples, whether it happens in or out of the classroom. He is a champion for staying on mission while also casting vision for innovation and imagination for what “could be” in Lutheran Education. Don is a treasure to our church, and his career leaves a lasting legacy in the Lutheran Church.”
Lutheran Education Association is an international, professional organization that links, equips, and affirms educators in Lutheran ministries.
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