Decorah, Iowa — Aaron Claxton of Cottage Grove, Minnesota, was among seven Luther College students to receive a $1,000 Steven Mark Anderson Scholarship for the 2026-27 academic year.

"These scholarship recipients exemplify resilience, determination, and commitment to service, community, and self. The selection process was highly competitive and considered not only students' academic achievement, but also their leadership, service to others, personal experiences, career aspirations, and challenges they have navigated on their path to earning a college degree," said Jennifer Hanifl, Ed.D., director of TRIO Student Support Services.

Aaron Claxton '28, a junior from Cottage Grove, Minnesota, is majoring in Spanish and music. He is a member of Alpha Lambda Delta (ALD), a national honor society that recognizes first-year students who achieve outstanding academic success. He is a member of Cathedral Choir and Organ Studio and enjoys being a collaborative pianist and playing for juries. He works as a tutor for students in music theory/ear training and Spanish. In his spare time, Claxton tunes pianos for Luther’s music department. Claxton plans to pursue graduate school in the future. 

The Steven Mark Anderson Scholarship benefits first-generation college students, income-eligible students, and students with disabilities involved in the TRIO Student Support Services program at Luther College. 

The Steven Mark Anderson Scholarship was established in 2001 by Lloyd and Kathy Anderson of Ames, Iowa, in memory of their son, Pastor Steven Mark Anderson, who graduated from Luther in 1985.

"We are incredibly proud of each recipient and grateful to Lloyd and Kathy Anderson, whose support, in memory of their son, Pastor Steven Mark Anderson, makes opportunities like this possible," Hanifl said. "These students demonstrate exceptional perseverance, a deep appreciation for the value of a liberal arts education, and a genuine desire to use their education to create meaningful change in their communities. This scholarship represents an investment in students whose potential extends far beyond the classroom, so they can remain focused on achieving their educational goals and preparing for lives of purpose, leadership and service."

TRIO Student Support Services is a federally-funded program that provides specialized support for first-generation college students, income-eligible students and students registered with Disability Services. It has been sponsored by Luther College for more than 50 years, fostering the academic, professional, and personal growth of 165 students annually.

About Luther College

At Luther College in beautiful Decorah, Iowa, students explore big questions and take action to benefit people, communities and society. Our academic programs, experiential approach to learning and welcoming community inspire students to learn actively, live purposefully and lead courageously for a lifetime of impact. Learn more at luther.edu.