Stories
Engaged Learning Fund Helps Gusties Find Their Careers
For Gustavus students who are worried that they can’t afford to do a low-paying internship or take a career-focused class outside the College, the Engaged Learning Fund (ELF) provides invaluable assistance.
Student Organization
Engineering Club
We are interested in engineering. We work on projects, explore careers, and apply problem-solving skills to real-world challenges. All majors welcome!
Student Organization
Environmental Action Coalition
We work to create positive environmental change. We do this through education, advocacy, and action. Every Gustie has the power to make a difference for our planet. We provide the knowledge, tools, and community support for you to be a big part of change.
Student Organization
Epsilon Pi Alpha Fraternity
We develop men of character through academic excellence, community service, and lifelong brotherhood.
Student Organization
Equestrian Team
We provide opportunities for riders to compete in collegiate equestrian sports. We develop horsemanship skills and build relationships with horses and teammates.
Our People
Ernest Briggs
Ernest Briggs is a professor of Theater and teaching Performance 1 and Performance 2, Improv, Directing and World Theater Analysis. He has recently directed The Secret in the Wings, Transforming and previously directed The Last Days of Judas Iscariot at Gustavus. Briggs has been a Warner Bros Discovery Early Access Early Career Bootcamp Fellow, Guthrie Theater Theater Management Fellow, and Park Square Directing Fellow.
Ernest Briggs has been an actor, director, producer and teaching artist for more than 15 years. He has been seen on the stages at Guthrie Theater, Mixed Blood Theatre, Park Square Theater, South Coast Repertory, Pangea World Theatre, Children's Theatre and in films such as Unholy Communion, Ode for Leviticus, and Sold Out.
Our People
Espen Fredrick
Espen Fredrick is a Visiting Assistant Professor of Physics. A 2021 Gustavus alumnus, Dr. Fredrick earned his Ph.D. in Physics from the University of Texas at Arlington in 2025 before returning to the college, bringing with him a strong commitment to undergraduate education and student-centered research.
In the classroom, Dr. Fredrick emphasizes preparing students for future careers in science and related fields through a teaching philosophy centering on helping students develop the habits needed for independent problem solving. His favorite courses to teach include electromagnetic theory and quantum mechanics, where he enjoys helping students contextualize new mathematical formalisms to build their own physical intuition.
Dr. Fredrick’s research focuses on space plasma physics, particularly the interaction between the solar wind and Earth’s magnetic field. His work aims to improve predictions of how and when solar wind disturbances impact near-Earth space, contributing to a broader understanding of space weather and its effects on technological systems. At Gustavus, he is interested in involving undergraduates in research that emphasizes the accessibility of computational physics and empowers students to conduct meaningful research beyond traditional settings.
Beyond teaching and research, Dr. Fredrick currently assists students who operate the Olin Observatory, helping them gain hands-on experience with astronomical instrumentation. He values close collaboration with students and sees mentoring as one of the most rewarding aspects of his role. He is excited to help students grow as scientists, problem solvers, and future leaders.
Esports
Gustavus Esports — Official collegiate esports program at Gustavus Adolphus College: view schedule, roster, staff, and conference participation in Valorant, Overwatch, Smash, and more.