On June 16, 2012, the Southern Minnesota congregation honored two outstanding graduates with a cake and punch reception. The graduates (Felicia Hoefker and Kayla Nelson) received cards, gift cards and a graduation keepsake book from their Church family.

Felicia Hoefker, daughter of Scott and Gayle Hoefker, graduated Cum Laude from Creighton University in Omaha, Nebraska, with a bachelor of science degree in nursing. Felicia previously attended the Omaha congregation, but has recently moved to Minnesota, where the Southern Minnesota congregation warmly welcomes her. Felicia has been actively involved in volunteering in the Church in many areas, which include music and serving as a staff members at several United Youth Camps. She is presently working as a registered nurse, and will be getting married to Daniel Jacobsen from Mankato, Minnesota, on July 15.

Kayla Nelson, daughter of Tadd and Janice Nelson, graduated from John Marshall High School in Rochester, Minnesota. Kayla has plans to attend college starting with a basic curriculum and then hopes to pursue a degree in business. She has a strong interest in photography and desires to take courses in that area as well. Kayla has been active in the local church teen group activities, having attended teen Bible studies, United Youth Camps, and she also served as a staff member at the preteen camp Ironwood. Kayla presently attends the Southern Minnesota congregation with her Dad (Tadd), her brother Isaac, and grandparents Lloyd and Norma Nelson.

The Southern Minnesota congregation is happy to honor both graduates for their past accomplishments and wishes them much success in their many future endeavors.