Concordia University Chicago has appointed John Thoelke (BA ’92) as its new vice president of finance and chief financial officer (CFO). Thoelke, who joined the University’s Board of Regents in May 2022, will officially begin serving as CFO on October 27.
In this role, he will provide strategic leadership and oversee the financial operations of Concordia-Chicago. As a member of the President’s Cabinet, Thoelke will be responsible for advising other leaders on fiscal matters, collaborating to maximize the effectiveness of University resources in alignment with its mission. Thoelke will also partner with the Concordia University Chicago Foundation and act as liaison to the Financial and Capital Strategies & Audit Committee of the Board of Regents, a responsibility for which he is uniquely positioned for success.
“I am delighted to welcome John back to his alma mater. He is smart, experienced, and unflappable,” University President Dr. Russell Dawn said of Thoelke. “In his service as a Regent he has demonstrated great wisdom and insight, not only understanding the numbers but seeing their broader effects and implications. Most of all, he is faithful to the Lord, the Church, and this beloved institution. I foresee many great years ahead with him at our financial helm.”
Thoelke, a Certified Public Accountant, currently serves as director of finance for Incarnate Word Academy in Houston, Texas. He returns to Concordia-Chicago with extensive financial management experience, including more than 25 years working with nonprofits. After earning a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Business Management here in River Forest, IL, Thoelke went on to work as a field examiner for the Indiana State Board of Accounts, and then as finance director for the Developmental Disabilities Resource Board of St. Charles County in Missouri. He brings with him a deep understanding of financial planning and strategy, data-informed decision-making, and performance improvement — expertise that will be instrumental in shaping the University’s financial future.
“This opportunity feels like a true calling,” said Thoelke, a lifelong Lutheran. “I understand where Concordia is today and where it needs to go, and it’ll be a blessing to help lead that journey. I’m excited to become a part of the team that works together daily to steward the University’s mission and future.”
Thoelke’s wife, Kate (BA ’96, MA ’20), shares his connection with and commitment to Concordia-Chicago. She’s currently pursuing a PhD from the University and serves as principal of Our Savior Lutheran School in Houston. The Thoelkes have four daughters, two of whom attend Concordia University Irvine.
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