Milwaukee City Wire

Sharon Bauer, a 1991 graduate of Wisconsin Lutheran College (WLC), has served as the institution’s Assistant Vice President of Finance since April 2019. In a recent profile, Bauer discussed her experiences and observations from both her time as a student and as an administrator at WLC.

Bauer credited Diane Hoehnke, WLC’s Vice President of Finance, for her professional growth. "I wouldn't be where I am today without the solid mentorship from Diane Hoehnke (WLC’s Vice President of Finance). She is an exceptional leader for our team, pushes me to use my talents and abilities beyond what I thought I could do, and is always supportive. I am blessed to be able to work with her every day and call her my friend," Bauer said.

Reflecting on the current challenges facing higher education, Bauer emphasized the importance of alumni and supporter involvement. "Higher education is getting a bad rap in the media these days. The need for educating Christian leaders who will go on to serve their communities with that solid foundation is great. Your prayers and donations are more important now than ever and are greatly appreciated," she stated.

Bauer encouraged incoming students to make the most of their college years. "Get involved in as many things as you are able to during your time at WLC. The friendships you create during these years will last a lifetime," she advised.

Since her freshman year, Bauer has witnessed significant expansion at WLC. She noted that when she started at the college there was only one building—the Greenfield Administration Building—which housed all campus functions including offices, dorms, classrooms, cafeteria, and lounge areas. Now, according to Bauer, "the campus spans several blocks and includes so much more! There are also so many more majors and minors to choose from, providing such a wide range of career options for students. What a blessing!"

Despite these changes, Bauer believes some core aspects remain constant at WLC: "The sense of community, caring faculty and staff who interact with students regularly, and Christian fellowship. The feeling that you are 'home' was there when I was a student and is still there today."

Sharing personal memories about growing up around WLC due to her father Rev. Roger Fleming’s long service at the college, Bauer recalled spending time in the administration building as a child: "[As the daughter of Rev. Roger Fleming, who served at WLC for many years] I grew up walking the halls of the administration building, playing in the old elevator, spent summers swimming in the pool (that is now under the outdoor basketball court), and even babysitting Marvin Schwan's grandchildren when they were in town."

She also recounted how students could avoid winter weather by staying indoors throughout much of campus life: "When I was a student we could go weeks without ever having to go outside in the winter. We could walk in slippers from our dorm room to the cafeteria, class, chapel, and never have to brave the frigid Wisconsin weather. Since I hate the cold, I loved that!"

Bauer continues her work at WLC alongside her family.