Concordia Community Mourns Student’s Death

Photo description: Photo of Drew Schmidt

Photo credit: CUNE Website

Nora Betts

Sower Staff

The Concordia community at Monday’s chapel service shared in the hope of the resurrection while mourning the loss of sophomore Steven “Drew” Schmidt, who passed away on March 4.

Drew’s suicide shook the Concordia community, and he is loved and remembered by his family, friends, and CUNE shooting sports teammates.

Students, faculty, and staff at the chapel service reflected on the words of Isaiah 43:1-13 and were reminded of God’s deep love for them. “…Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine.”

Campus chaplain Rev. Ryan Matthias acknowledged the grief present throughout Concordia but reminded the community about the promises of God. “What God does in times like these is He gives us His Word,” said Matthias.

President Bernard Bull, aid supporting students during this time of grief was the school’s top priority.

“We thank God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, for being the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort who comforts us in our grief, so that we can comfort one another,” Bull said. “We encourage the Concordia community to continue to pray for each other, for Drew’s family and for God’s healing love.”

On-campus counseling sessions will be offered throughout the week, and mental health and grief resources are available to students in need of support.

The coaches and members of the shooting sports team have declined to comment at this time.