Alumni Focus - Thomas Hunter ('71)

With a Bachelor of Science in Education from (Dr.) Martin Luther College, a Master's in Education from UW Whitewater, and a TEFL Certification from Hamline University, Thomas (Tom) Hunter's (‘71) career path has taken him to a dozen different countries. His work at MLC included teaching and developing an international office that provided greater attention for international students, formalized semester abroad experiences, and developed a teach abroad program. 

After 49 years in education and now in retirement, Tom serves on the Administrative Council of a new Christian school, and he and his wife enjoy the opportunities that come with beginning a mission church, as well as opportunities to travel and spend time with their children and grandchildren. 

In recognition of his extraordinary lifelong service, he was nominated, selected, and honored on December 18 as the 2025 recipient of SCLA’s Wall of Honor Distinguished Alumnus award.

As he reflects on his time at SCLA, Mr. Hunter emphasizes his servant heart, as SCLA taught him “to be willing to do what needs to be done, and to live the words of Isaiah 6:8, "… Here am I. Send me."' 

What are some of your favorite memories from your time at St. Croix?

Being part of the first football team, experiencing our first win (it took a long time), and practicing on the gravel, overflow parking lot; classes and meetings in the portable classrooms; being surrounded by faithful Christian friends; falling through the ice on the pond (someone had to test it to see if the Student Council could have an ice skating event); and being able to deliver the student response speech at our graduation.

Were there any teachers or staff who had a big impact on you?

John Oldfield and Bill Staab both had a big impact on me. I already knew I wanted to go into teaching, and both of these men modeled for me Christian service with their kindness and understanding in the classroom. They continued that modeling in their coaching styles where many important life lessons helped us persevere.

Mr. Schuster served as a custodian during my years at St. Croix. He was a man who never turned a deaf ear to a needy student; if he could help someone, he just did. 

What lessons—academic or personal—did you carry with you after graduation?

Teachers, like students, are real people, and people can accomplish more when they can talk to each other. Be a listener, and always approach every circumstance from a Christian perspective.

When you see that something needs to be done, do it. And be happy!

Were you involved in any extracurricular activities that helped shape who you are today?

Various leadership roles allowed me to get to know people like Dan Schmeling, Rhoda Arndt, and even Principal Schroeder, all of whom were very approachable and even fun to be around.

Football, basketball, and track helped me grow to understand how to win and how to lose graciously, how to work hard, and how to persevere. I found applications of the importance of teamwork and encouragement throughout my life.

What path did you take after graduating? How did your goals evolve over time?

I attended (Dr.) Martin Luther College after graduation (and, to my surprise, St. Croix’s Principal Morton Schroeder took a Call to DMLC that same year). I entered the full-time teaching ministry in 1975.

I was blessed to serve elementary students, high school students, college students, and older adult students, but I had not planned on all those experiences. I was able to serve in various administration positions, but I had not planned on doing that.  I was able to engage in cultural and international opportunities that took me to twelve different countries, but I had not planned on that.  St. Croix taught me to be prepared, to be willing to do what needs to be done, and to live the words of Isaiah 6:8, “… Here am I. Send me.” 

What advice would you give to your high school self or to current students?

While having goals and working toward achieving those is very important, you can be confident that your Heavenly Father will lead you to where he wants you to be according to his time. Prepare yourself for a life of service to Him, no matter what vocation you enter.

I knew I wanted to be a teacher, and I knew I ought to teach English and coach football in a high school setting. I didn’t know God had other plans. I enjoyed teaching and coaching at Lakeside Lutheran High School, but that was only a small part of my 49 years in education. God’s winding path took me far beyond my plan. To God be all praise and glory. Give yourself over to him in whatever you do.

How did your experiences at St. Croix influence the kind of work you wanted to do in adulthood?

St. Croix confirmed in my mind that I wanted to be a teacher, and that no matter what our station in life, we can serve the Lord with a happy heart.