Our People
Sharon Mautner-Rodgers
Sharon Mautner-Rodgers is instructor of cello at Gustavus and teaches string techniques class every other spring to music education majors. In addition to Gustavus, she also teaches cello and bass at Bethany Lutheran College and Concordia Classical Academy. An active performer, Sharon is a member of the Mankato and South Dakota Symphonies, and plays as an extra with the Sinfonia Chamber and Minnesota Orchestra. Sharon enjoys traveling and studying food science.
Major/Minor
Gender, Women, and Sexuality Studies
As a GWSS major/minor you will examine gender and sexuality as cultural and social categories that organize and shape human experience. You will also explore how they intersect with other social differences such as race, class, ethnicity, nationality, religion, ability, and age. Sample courses and career paths here.
Office
Resources - Title IX
Access confidential and non-confidential resources on campus and externally, including counseling and national hotlines for support. Learn more about Sexual Assault Response Team (SART) and polices related to Sexual Harassment and Sexual Misconduct.
Major/Minor
Pre-Optometry
You'll major in Biology and Chemistry, gaining a strong academic foundation in the core classes needed for graduate school, plus the freedom to explore through electives. You'll have academic rigor, a supportive community, and an immersive on-campus student experience. Plus, the Office of Health Professions supports future optometrists, from first steps to grad-school applications.
Major/Minor
Pre-Physical Therapy
Students studying pre-physical therapy major in Exercise Physiology and/or Biology on their way to leading rehabilitation treatment programs for sports and other injuries. You'll get a strong academic foundation in the core classes needed for PT and orthopedic PT school, plus the freedom to explore through electives. You'll also be supported by the Office of Health Professions, from prerequisite courses through grad school application.
Our People
Aaron Nienow
Aaron was born and raised in St. Charles Minnesota, a small town between Winona and Rochester. He attended St. Mary's University in Winona Minnesota where he met his wife, Amanda. After St. Mary's he took some time off before enrolling in classes at the University of Minnesota. Aaron began working at Gustavus in 2007.
He has three children and enjoys listening to baseball games, reading a books, riding bike, putting puzzles together, and coaching soccer.
Major/Minor
Pre-Architecture
Students interested in becoming architects pair a major in Studio Art with Physics, Environmental Studies, and/or Geography majors. You'll study spatial design, construction technology, sustainable practices, and cultural considerations of architecture and architectural advancement. Plus, a faculty advisor from the Art and Art History Department will assist you in selecting classes that explore the art and science of spaces and creating a portfolio of projects in preparation for graduate study.
Living on Campus
Living on campus is at the heart of the Gustavus experience—close community, vibrant events, and a variety of dorms and apartments make campus feel like home from day one to graduation.
Our People
Thomas LoFaro
Thomas LoFaro is a Professor of Mathematics. He specializes in applications of dynamical systems to mathematical biology. He has had multiple cross-disciplinary scholarly collaborations in his career working with biologists, neuroscientists, and computer scientists. He is currently an Associate in the Institute for the Interdisciplinary Study of Decision Making at New York University. Thomas has recently co-authored the textbook Discovering Differential Equations Through Experiment & Inquiry with Professor Jeff Ford.
Professor LoFaro teaches a wide variety of mathematics courses in the MCS department but especially enjoys teaching any class with an applied mathematics focus. He has taught at Gustavus since 2000 and has served the College in many capacities including multiple terms chairing the MCS Department. In 2019 he was awarded the college's Faculty Service Award for exceptional service and dedication.
Our People
Jaren Crist
Jaren Crist is a professor of Psychology. His work and research focus on understanding race and racism in America. He uses critical race theory to study the systemic nature and impact of racism. His approach is interdisciplinary, and he is part of the Peace, Justice, and Conflict Studies program. As a teacher, he believes that learning should be fun and engaging. He challenges students to think critically about the topics covered in class. He also wants students to understand how these concepts relate to their everyday lives. Jaren is also involved with the psychology department's Social Justice Club. This club is a place for students to meet and discuss psychological research that addresses various social issues in the world. The club is open to all students and is a great chance to discuss social issues. Outside of Gustavus, Jaren is an avid gamer and enjoys listening to music.
Academic Department
Why Study Literature
Literature helps us better understand our lives, ourselves, and the world around us. Encounters with literature develop the concepts of identification, imagination, and empathy. In our increasingly chaotic world, these skills matter deeply. Taking a deep dive into literature from different cultures allows you to both expand your ability to evaluate and discuss the work itself and also better understand what it tells us about the world, our own beliefs and values, and the beliefs and values of others.
Secure Your Spot
Make a deposit and confirm your enrollment. We're excited to welcome you to the Gustie family!