Luther Classical College is pleased to announce that our freshman student Paul Olson was the recipient of the 2025 Dr. Carl Schalk Church Music Award at Lutheran Summer Music, held this year at Valparaiso University in Indiana. Recognized as one of the premier summer academies for young Lutheran musicians, the program annually honors one student for distinguished service and dedication for using musical gifts in the church.

Beginning with his first semester, Olson has become an integral part of campus life at LCC. He plays the organ for Matins chapel services twice a week and sang music of Lutheran composer Michael Praetorius and others in the LCC Choir for the historic opening service under the direction of Dr. William Lipke. Olson commented: “It was an honor to receive this award and I look forward to further developing these skills at Luther Classical College.”

Outside of campus, Olson serves as the primary organist at Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church in his hometown of Casper, Wyoming, while also appearing frequently as a guest organist for other congregations in the area.

Dr. William Lipke, professor of music at Luther Classical College, praised Olson’s early contributions to the college: “Paul embodies the very mission of Luther Classical College’s music program: forming musicians who joyfully use their gifts for the glory of God and the service of His church. His recognition at Lutheran Summer Music is a testament to the future we envision here at LCC, a community where sacred music thrives at the very heart of student life.”

Through its parish music track, Luther Classical College continues to build a robust music program, where students are encouraged to combine rigorous academics with rich participation in the historic liturgy of the church. Olson’s achievement exemplifies the college’s commitment to raising up the next generation of faithful church musicians.