Dr. Richard Fischer is retiring after more than 51 years at Concordia University Chicago, and we celebrate his legacy today. Dr. Richard Fischer (distinguished professor of music and conductor of Concordia University Chicago’s University Band and Wind Symphony), Adam Friedrich (Concordia University Chicago Alumni), and Amanda Bowman (Concordia University Chicago Alumni) join Andy and Sarah to talk about Dr. Fischer’s formation as an educator, how he began at Concordia in 1974 and how his role evolved over time, some favorite highlights from his years of teaching and leadership at Concordia, Adam and Amanda’s time with Dr. Fischer and their favorite memories, and how their education and experience with Dr. Fischer shaped who they are and how they serve today. Read more about “Doc” Fischer at cuchicago.edu/news/2025/02/dr.-richard-fischer-to-retire-after-51-years-of-musical-excellence-at-concordia-university-chicago.
As you grab your morning coffee (and pastry, let’s be honest), join hosts Andy Bates and Sarah Gulseth as they bring you stories of the intersection of Lutheran life and a secular world. Catch real-life stories of mercy work of the LCMS and partners, updates from missionaries across the ocean, and practical talk about how to live boldly Lutheran. Have a topic you’d like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: listener@kfuo.org.
Today’s episode of The Coffee Hour is underwritten in part by Concordia University Wisconsin and Ann Arbor. You can learn more about Concordia University Wisconsin at cuw.edu and Concordia University Ann Arbor at cuaa.edu. Live Uncommon.

