Elliot Christen to receive first Luther Athletics Department Meritorious Service Award

The very first "Meritorious Service Award" to be presented by the Luther College Athletics Department will go to Decorah resident Elliott Christen on October 11th, the school announced Thursday.  The presentation will take place at the Hall of Fame induction ceremony in the Noble Recital Hall at 5:00 p.m. Saturday, October 11th, preceded by a reception in the lobby of the Jensen-Noble Hall of Music beginning at 4:00 p.m.

Christen was selected for this honor by the Hall of Fame committee comprised of current coaches, administrative staff and athletics alumni.  He was picked for volunteering his time to Luther College athletics for the past 32 years. During this time, he has served as a mentor and play-by-play announcer for Luther's student radio station KWLC (1982-92). Since 1992, he has served as the public address announcer primarily for football and has also worked basketball, baseball, softball, swimming and track and field athletic events in this same capacity. He has also served as a play-by-play announcer for the sports information departments live video streaming of home swim meets the past seven years.

Christen also volunteers his time in the Decorah Community at the First Lutheran food pantry and Meals on Wheels.
 
"We are proud to present Elliot Christen with the inaugural Luther College Athletics Meritorious Service Award," commented director of athletics Joe Thompson. "This award is being bestowed on Christen for exceptional contributions made to the Luther College Athletic Department during the past three decades. He has been an inspiration to others and his actions reflect our mission statement in that he has "served with distinction for the common good." He has volunteered countless hours, provided invaluable services, and has made significant contributions to enhance the experience of our student-athletes, parents, and fans."
 
The Luther College Athletics Meritorious Service Award was created to honor those who have provided distinguished service in a support role for Luther College athletics. Christen will be the first recipient of this award.