To recognize the entry of the United States into World War I, Concordia’s student body and many Moorhead citizens gathered to watch the raising of the American flag outside of New Main. This occasion, however, was not the only milestone moment at Concordia in 1917. That same year the Hauge, Norwegian, and United synods merged to form the Norwegian Lutheran Church of America. Park Region Luther College (PRLC), also a Norwegian Lutheran school, was operating very successfully in nearby Fergus Falls. The newly formed synod was not interested in supporting both PRLC and Concordia due to their close proximity and similar curriculum. President J.A. Aasgaard, a visionary leader who recognized the importance of a college curriculum, assembled community support to keep the college program at Concordia. Moorhead citizens rallied and pledged to raise $30,000 to clear Concordia’s debt incurred from balancing operating costs with interest payments and repair costs.
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