R. E. Fuglestad

• Biology Professor 1927-1970

• Biology Department Chair 1950-1962

• Premedical Adviser 1950-1970

Biography

Born in Cooperstown, ND, R. E. Fuglestad earned both his bachelor’s degree and master’s degree in zoology from the University of North Dakota, graduating in 1924. He came to Concordia in 1927 and initially divided his time between biology and chemistry. Originally, Fuglestad had hoped to become a medical doctor but was unable to because of finances. However, an astounding 187 of his students at Concordia went on to earn medical degrees. Fuglestad kept his students on their toes with his pop quizzes and interactive lectures aided by his trademark pointer.

In 1965, Fuglestad was designated an Alma and Reuel Wije Distinguished Professor by Concordia’s faculty and the University of North Dakota honored him in 1971 with a Sioux Award, their alumni association’s highest honor. The Alumni News stated in a 1969 article about Fuglestad, “it is obvious that one of his greatest satisfactions comes from watching the progress of his former students. This is the type of personal concern that has been the hallmark of one of Concordia’s finest professors.” Fuglestad kept in touch with past students by hosting his “dead fish parties” throughout the country.  In 1981, the biology auditorium was renamed Fuglestad Auditorium and a cast bronze portrait of him by sculptor J. Paul Nesse was unveiled. Following his death later that year, the R. E. Fugelstad Lectureship was established through funds given in his memory.