Spencer Almen 
I’m from Kerkhoven, Minnesota and study Earth and Environmental Engineering at the School of Engineering and Applied Science. I’ve always been fascinated by the environment and the things we can do to preserve it. This is an exciting time to be an environmental engineer because we are finally beginning to make widespread changes so that our society can be more environmentally sound. The challenges we face have never been greater, but neither has the opportunity.
In my free time during the school year, I love exploring New York City, eating all kinds of new and interesting foods, going to shows, sporting events, concerts, and in general hanging out with friends in the dorms or around campus. In the summer you will find me playing baseball and waterskiing when I’m not on the job pouring concrete.
It’s great to have Lutheran campus ministry as a place to worship and talk about all kinds of issues and events with people who have similar beliefs. Going to services and other events keeps me grounded.
Pastor Nicole Schwalbe
I am the Lutheran religious life advisor at Columbia. I originally hail from the great Midwest but now live in the Columbia neighborhood with my husband and two sons. When not strolling around Columbia or hanging out in Earl Hall, you are most likely to find me in a sandbox in the park, on a bike path by the river or in the kitchen trying new recipes I also love to share a cup of coffee and some good conversation so be sure to stop by for a visit!
Ellie McNamara
I am in my third year at Barnard College, studying both Economics and Religion. I am originally from New Hampshire, however New York has become my second home. I am actively involved in Barnard’s Student Government Association, Columbia Lutherans and Kappa Alpha Theta. I love participating in LMHE because it has provided me with such a wonderful community in the midst of hectic New York City.
Simon Thompson
I am a third-year chemical engineering student from North Carolina. I enjoy a real crushing load of homework from time to time, as well as playing the guitar in spite of that homework. I am glad to participate in the Columbia Lutheran group because it affords me the opportunity to meet some quality people at Columbia and enjoy a familiar environment here away from home.
Alan Yang
I am from a Chinese family, and lived in Oakland, California, before moving to New York City for work. I studied architecture and have a B.A. degree from University of California at Berkeley. I enjoy Lutheran Columbia service, because I had been participating in a Lutheran Church while in college, namely the University Lutheran Chapel, and LMHE is the closest thing I could find in NYC. I enjoy the company of the worshipers with the most friendly Pastor Schwalbe. It is also true that I have Mondays off from work, so a Sunday night on the Upper Westside becomes a little nice pilgrimage in the city.
Alexandra Werner Winslow
I’m an Art History major at Barnard who’s fresh off the boat from six years in London. Originally I grew up in Virginia, and I’m getting to know the US all over again, this time in the guise of New York City. I really appreciate the opportunity to worship with other young adults at LMHE, as well as the chance to take a breather from hectic city life with laid-back Lutheran fellowship.
Sheldon Erb
As a property manager in Jersey City, I don’t get out to the city much. But when I do, I enjoy exploring in the rich culture that NYC has to offer. My Sundays are typically spent participating in Sunday School programs and financial accountability at Advent Lutheran Church in Manhattan, and assisting in light acolyte duties for evening campus ministries at Columbia University. Especially during economic challenges our country faces, there is an ethical responsibility that I feel called to contribute my time and services to helping others. And what I get out of participating in Lutheran ministries is fun fellowship centered in a faithful life.
Emily Ballentine
I am a graduate student in the music education program at Teachers College. I am also one of three ministers of music at Advent Lutheran Church in Manhattan, and the pianist for the LCM services. I appreciate music as a true gift from God, and am passionate about sharing that gift with others. My husband Sheldon and I love being a part of the great Lutheran community with Pastor Schwalbe and her fellow students.
Christine Mortlock
I have been living in Manhattan for about five years and work as an editor and study information management. I enjoy telling bad jokes, watching goofy comedies, running in Central Park, and doing crossword puzzles poorly. I’m game for trying new things like strawberry-picking, playing the guitar, chocolate walking tours, and hip-hop classes. I love LMHE; it’s a supportive Lutheran community in New York City!