Wartburg College

Wartburg College, founded in 1852 by Georg M. Grossmann in Saginaw, Michigan, began as a vital institution dedicated to training pastors for German immigrants. Its very name, Wartburg, pays homage to the historic Wartburg Castle in Eisenach, Germany, a significant refuge for Martin Luther during the Reformation. This deep German heritage is a cornerstone of the college's identity, celebrated through cultural exchanges with Eisenach, regular performances by the Wartburg Choir at the castle, and strong student and alumni ties to its namesake.

The college's journey saw it relocate several times between Illinois and Iowa before finding its permanent home in Waverly in 1935, the same year it merged with St. Paul Luther College. Student life at Wartburg is enriched by its unique traditions, most notably "Outfly." This annual, student-declared holiday is a deliberately mistaken translation of the German word "Ausflug" and represents the college's most enduring tradition, with its origins tracing back to 1883.

Beyond its traditions, Wartburg is known for its spirited rivalry with Luther College, a friendly competition that has fostered creative pranks and good sportsmanship for decades, capturing national attention. The college also boasts historic landmarks like Old Main, built in 1880 and now on the National Register of Historic Places. In a significant milestone for its leadership, Rebecca Ehretsman made history in 2022 as Wartburg's first female president, guiding the institution into its next chapter while honoring its rich past.