Rev. Alan (Acad. '60, J.C. '62) and Rosie Braun have a deep connection to Concordia and have chosen to continue their relationship with the university by establishing a planned gift.

Alan came to Concordia as a student already connected, as his father and siblings had also attended. Alan grew up knowing that he would one day become a pastor. "My parents were not supposed to have children and when they were indeed able to, they wanted to dedicate on of us to the Lord." After leaving seminary, he served in Illinois, then Michigan, before receiving the call to King of Kings in Roseville, MN where he finished out his career as head pastor.

Rosie also holds a deep affinity to Concordia, having spent 24 years on campus in a variety of roles, namely academic advising.

Concordia holds a special place in Alan and Rosie's heart. "Concordia provides students with a faith-based foundation that they cannot get anywhere else. Students are able to gain a well-rounded education that enlightens them in the three essential areas: academically, socially and spiritually." They shared this love with all five of their children — Rebekah ('92), Andrew ('93), Joanna ('94), Susanna ('98), and Deborah ('04) — who continued the legacy by also studying at Concordia.

With a love of Concordia's mission, Rev. Alan and Rosie have chosen to include a two-part bequest in their will for the university. The Brauns have chosen to create a two-part bequest for Concordia: The University is listed as a beneficiary to receive a percentage of their estate and will also receive a portion of their insurance policy. Rosie explained that "The process was very easy — we were able to include all of the designations we wanted and we were able to avoid a lot of future hassle for our children."

"We saw the need for scholarships. College has gotten so costly and we want to help. Working in advising, I saw so many kids that had state and federal financial aid, but many times there was still a gap; these were good kids, smart and dedicated students that want to make a difference in the world. We want to help keep these students in school and on track. Rather than putting our money into buildings, we want to build people," said Rosie.

The Brauns have chosen to create a two-part bequest for Concordia: The University is listed as a beneficiary to receive a percentage of their estate and will also receive a portion of their insurance policy. "The process was very easy — we were able to include all of the designations we wanted and we were able to avoid a lot of future hassle for our children."

Alan added, "We want the ministry of Concordia to continue. We know that we won't be here forever and through this gift, we hope that we are able to help it endure."