CUNE students assist with storm cleanup

Students at Concordia University Nebraska (CUNE), Seward, Neb., help remove a tree that was toppled by strong winds during a storm in August. (CUNE)

By Brianna Dehn

On Aug. 9, a severe thunderstorm swept through Seward, Neb., including the campus of Concordia University, Nebraska (CUNE). No injuries were reported, but the 90-plus mph winds downed over 50 trees on campus, caused damage to roofs, and also damaged many trees and buildings throughout the city of Seward.

Thousands of Seward residents were left for several days without power. On Aug. 14, a team of eight volunteers from Lutheran Early Response Team (LERT) deployed to Seward, with an additional team deploying the following week. LERT volunteers are trained to react quickly to help communities that have experienced natural disasters by cleaning up debris, chopping up fallen trees, and simply praying with and supporting those affected.

“We are fortunate no one was injured and are blessed to have LERT volunteers who want to help,” said Nicholas Onnen, disaster response coordinator for The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS) Nebraska District.

Although CUNE’s fall semester had not yet begun, there were nevertheless many people on campus — faculty, staff and students — preparing for the fall term. According to an article on the CUNE website, in the days immediately following the storm, students and staff assisted with the cleanup, “removing tree limbs from cars, homes and roadways … [and] offering aid wherever it was needed.”

CUNE President Dr. Bernard Bull said, “Moments like this are an opportunity to live out our mission of being a Christ-centered community equipping men and women for lives of learning, service and leadership in the church and world. … This severe weather event presented a number of challenges for us, but … also provided an opportunity for the Concordia community to come together to share the love of Christ while serving both our campus and our neighbors in the Seward community.”

“Despite the damage, I give thanks to God that He kept the citizens of Seward safe from harm, particularly the students, faculty and staff of Concordia University, Nebraska,” said the Rev. Michael Meyer, director of disaster training for the LCMS Office of National Mission. “Our LERT teams have mobilized and will be on campus and in the community in the coming days and weeks to bring assistance and encouragement.”

The fall semester at CUNE began Aug. 25. Learn more at cune.edu.

Brianna Dehn is a freelance writer living in St. Louis.

Posted Sept. 5, 2025