Karson (Hilgendorf) Bateman, a 2022 graduate of Wisconsin Lutheran College, has been named the college’s featured alumna for May 2026, according to an April 28 announcement. Bateman currently serves as Science Program Coordinator at the college, a position she has held since August 2025.
The recognition highlights Bateman’s ongoing contributions to the campus community and her commitment to science education. Wisconsin Lutheran College supports academic excellence and Christian values through its programs and activities, according to the official website.
Bateman said her favorite aspects of her role include visiting local schools for science demonstrations and teaching fermentation science classes using knowledge from graduate school. She credits Dr. Angela Ebeling and Dr. John Werner with having significant influence on her professional development: “Dr. Angela Ebeling took me on as a student researcher when I was a junior and continues to inspire and encourage me as I am learning how to be a college instructor. Likewise, Dr. John Werner and I started as research advisor and advisee and now we get to be coworkers and friends who plan courses and summer camps together.”
She encouraged alumni—especially those in science fields—to stay connected with the college by sharing career updates with the alumni office or spreading word about upcoming Summer Science Camps: “Knowing what you are up to these days… makes a HUGE difference for current and prospective students.” Bateman also advised freshmen to participate in campus jobs or small groups such as resident assistant roles or event boards, saying it helps build skills, connections, and lasting friendships.
Reflecting on changes at Wisconsin Lutheran College since she was a student, Bateman pointed out growth in new graduate degree programs that provide pathways for further study: “In the rapidly changing world of higher education, it is so cool that WLC is offering relevant master’s degrees.” She also emphasized continuity in spiritual life at WLC: “That God is still clearly moving at WLC… The worship, learning, and service that happen on campus have a joy and hopefulness beneath them that is clearly the work of God.”
Wisconsin Lutheran College offers more than 50 undergraduate majors along with graduate programs in education and leadership according to the official website. The institution fosters community through campus activities such as varsity sports—18 are offered within NCAA Division III—and opportunities for spiritual development according to its official site. It maintains an association with the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod as reported by its website.
Bateman concluded by sharing personal stories from her time at WLC—including meeting her husband—and expressing appreciation for lifelong connections made there.
