Hilvie Ostrow Equips Others to Explore Their Calls

Hilvie Ostrow has always been interested in theology, but she didn't enter seminary until she was in her 50s.

"When I was a young woman, women were not in ministry," she said.

But when a young woman in her church entered seminary, Ostrow was called to do the same. Her father, a pastor, didn't have much when he died, but he left Ostrow enough money to pay her tuition. In 1982, she received a master of arts in systematic theology.

Ten years ago, Ostrow decided to pass that opportunity on to others. She established the Oscar A. Benson endowed scholarship fund for students who have an interest in social action, evangelism or world mission—three things her father was passionate about.

She hopes others find what she has at Luther—a second home.

"There's a feeling of belonging and acceptance here," she said. "It's a very special place."