By Stephanie Boeding | Photos by Julie Pagel Drewes ’90, Kaylin Muggler  ’21

When Knights are tested in a year like no other, they shine like no other! COVID-19 has taken beloved experiences away — Homecoming & Family Weekend and many other annual events held on campus were canceled, overseas travel and music tours were put on hold, athletics seasons were cut short or moved, and some students have had to quarantine in their rooms. But even in a pandemic, Wartburg College continues to deliver on its mission. Faculty and staff still challenge and nurture students, but now wear masks, interact remotely,  and implement creative new methods. We’ve seen students and alumni step into new roles of leadership and service, still guided by their faith and learning.

Wartburg traditions, at times limited by the virus, have made room for Knights to come together in new ways. Christmas with Wartburg was watched by thousands more people online than would be able to attend in person. Old friends are sharing memories in Zoom reunions. Fans and parents can watch athletic events safely from anywhere with Knight Vision. Even though conditions have kept us apart, we have discovered that our traditions and mission are strong enough to withstand change and hold us together, and we will celebrate that together — in person — when the virus has been defeated. As the photos on these pages show, we are still Wartburg!