Valparaiso University continues to deepen its Lutheran roots and extend its public reach by signing a memorandum of understanding with Quake – a ministry organization dedicated to helping young people in grades 6–12 across the United States to explore their faith through memorable retreat experiences. This latest action is part of a phased approach toward Valparaiso University acquiring and assuming management of Quake’s operation.
For Valpo, this new partnership is an invaluable opportunity to serve more closely with faith groups, organizations, and families both near home and across the nation. The University has long committed itself to creating opportunities for faith formation, leadership, and personal growth. By joining Valparaiso University, Quake will be a part of supporting Valpo’s emerging strategic vision of a lifelong faith and learning ecosystem that goes beyond the traditional college experience.
“At Valparaiso University, we believe faith and learning are lifelong journeys that shape how we live, lead, and serve. By welcoming Quake into the Valpo campus community, we will further deepen our roots and expand our reach, by accompanying churches, families, and young people, to help us all build lives for good,” says University President Rev. Brian Konkol, Ph.D.
Throughout this phased transition of operational leadership, Valparaiso University and Quake are dedicated to sustaining the transformative experiences that make faith come alive for youth. Event directors Amanda Clark and Jennifer Miller have a combined 50 years of experience in bringing Quake’s mission to life, and will continue to bring those decades of knowledge to every step of every retreat. Their experience will be supplemented by Valpo’s rich history with the Church and its dedication to creating exceptional environments for young people that encourage them to grow in faith and learning.
Quake began its life with Youth Encounter, which helped shape its mission and ministry for 50 years. Since 2016, Quake has been part of Life Promotions, which built upon an exceptional legacy to shepherd the organization to where it is today.
“For the past ten years, it has been a privilege for Life Promotions to carry forward Quake’s mission of helping youth encounter the Gospel and grow in faith,” says Bob Lenz, founder and president of Life Promotions. “I’m excited to see Quake begin this next chapter at Valparaiso University and confident that God has wonderful things in store as Quake continues to impact the next generation with the Gospel.”
With Quake finding a new home, Life Promotions is focusing on its Dignity Revolution program in schools across the country, championing the value of every person, and looks forward to continuing to promote and partner with Quake.
Both Quake and Valparaiso University are excited to make this transition a reality and to continue making a positive difference in the lives of young people. The 2027 list of events for Quake is now available, and registration will open November 1, 2026. Those wishing to support the program and participants can also make a one-time or recurring donation on the Valparaiso University website.
Throughout its existence, Quake’s efforts have been made possible by the dedicated support of countless churches, leaders, volunteers, and donors. Quake and Valparaiso University look forward to continuing those partnerships with faith communities across the United States.
