Edith Waldstein

Edith Waldstein

Edith J. Phillips Waldstein ’73
Waverly, Iowa

When she returned to Waverly in 1989, Edie Waldstein couldn’t have imagined the scope of her own career in higher education administration. After graduating from Wartburg with a bachelor’s degree in German in 1973, Waldstein went on to earn her master’s degree in 1975 then her doctorate in German languages and literatures in 1982, both from Washington University in St. Louis. Poised for a career as an educator, she was a member of the German faculty at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in Boston from 1980 to 1989.

Waldstein thought she would continue her career teaching, but when she came to Wartburg the second time, her path would impact the college — and thousands of students — through her roles in administration rather than teaching full time on the faculty. Waldstein began her time back at Wartburg as the registrar and part-time faculty member, and later served in roles as associate vice president for academic affairs and associate dean of the faculty.

In 2001, she assumed the new role of vice president for enrollment management, where for 20 years she led the college’s efforts to identify, recruit and retain students. As her nominators noted, Waldstein’s work has positively impacted the life of virtually every student at Wartburg, leading to improved retention rates and record enrollments. As a vice president, she served on the president’s cabinet to support the college’s strategic plan and oversaw wide-ranging departments such as admissions, financial aid, the registrar, and information technology. Among her notable achievements was envisioning and implementing the college’s Pathways Center, which has served many students over the years as an advising resource to support them in their academics, vocational discernment and career aspirations.

Over more than 30 years at Wartburg, Waldstein, who was born abroad herself, has championed diversity and hospitality on campus. “She has a unique perspective and open-minded appreciation of the Wartburg faith community, its Lutheran traditions, and German heritage,” wrote a nominator. “She has a sincere concern for the students who struggle and, when appropriate, reaches out with compassionate support and encouragement.”

She has also been a dedicated public servant in her community. Notably, Waldstein has been part of the local Planning & Zoning Board, the Bartels Retirement Community Board, and the Allen College Hospital Board. Waldstein was elected to the Waverly City Council and served several years with insight and preparedness. She gives her time and resources to multiple organizations, including Cedar Valley Friends of the Family, the American Association of University Women, Women of Waverly, Rotary, and Self-Help International.