Michael Rinehart to Be Recognized at Valpo Homecoming

VALPARAISO, IN (09/23/2010)(readMedia)-- Michael Rinehart will be one of 16 alumni and volunteers recognized by the Valparaiso University Alumni Association during Homecoming festivities at the University this weekend. The honorees will be recognized during a special worship service at 10 a.m., September 26 in the Chapel of the Resurrection.

Rinehart of Houston, a 1983 graduate, will be honored with the Alumni Achievement Award, recognizing those who have achieved extraordinary success in their professional life.

Rinehart is currently the Bishop of the Texas-Louisiana Gulf Coast Synod, and also has served at churches in Iowa, North Carolina, and Texas. Rinehart currently serves on the Texas Lutheran University Corporation Board, the Houston Coalition for Immigration Reform, and the Board of Houston Coalition for Mutual Respect. He has been very involved in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Peru and is in the process of learning more about the Evangelical Lutheran Church of the Central African Republic. Since graduation he has remained involved with Valparaiso University by attending the Institute of Liturgical Studies at various times. He also has volunteered to help various congregations get back on their feet after devastating natural disasters. His goal is to continue to create communities that make disciples who serve the world in Jesus' name.

Valparaiso University is a comprehensive university that enrolls more than 4,000 students on its campus southeast of downtown Chicago. A community of purpose-driven, empowered, service-minded and ethical individuals who embrace the pursuit of truth with freedom, humility and compassion, Valpo has been identified as one of the top master's-level institutions in the Midwest by U.S. News & World Report magazine for the past 22 years.

More than 110 undergraduate academic programs are offered through the colleges of Arts and Sciences, Business Administration, Engineering and Nursing. Valpo also has a distinguished honors college-Christ College, a School of Law and more than 40 degree and certificate programs in its Graduate School and Continuing Education Division. Valpo has been recognized for its commitment to outstanding teaching, preparing thoughtful leaders with strong cross-cultural skills and global awareness, and dedication to serving others.