The 2015 inductees into Hastings College’s Pro Rege Society are George Lundeen ‘71 of Loveland, Colorado, and Frederick Mattes of Hastings, Nebraska. The dinner and induction ceremony, during which Hastings College will recognize these individuals and company for their longstanding dedication to the College, will be held at Lochland Country Club in Hastings, Neb., on Thursday, April 23.
The evening begins at 6:30 p.m., and includes a black tie dinner, tributes by the Hastings College Music Department and the induction ceremony. To make reservations, call Molly Johnsen at (402) 461-7363 by Wednesday, April 15.
Membership in the Pro Rege Society is the highest non-academic recognition that Hastings College bestows. Criteria for selection may include, but is not limited to, extraordinary service to Hastings College, significant philanthropic contributions and/or unusual commitment to the college over an extended period of time. This marks the Society’s 18th year of existence.
A native of Holdrege, Nebraska, Lundeen is a bronze sculptor whose works are held in private and public collections throughout the world. After completing his bachelor degree at Hastings, he pursued a master of fine arts degree at the University of Illinois and secured a Fullbright Fellowship to Italy. The College is privileged to serve as home to two works by the artist: “Joy of Music” located north of French Memorial Chapel, and “Robert Frost,” north of Perkins Library. He designed and produces the medallions presented to Pro Rege Society members as well as the president’s medallion worn at all ceremonial college events.
Dr. Mattes taught chemistry at Hastings College from 1976-2004, serving as Chair of the Chemistry Department 13 of those 28 years. Known as one of the College’s most challenging teachers, he served as co-sponsor of Alpha Chi academic honorary society and received the organization’s Outstanding Faculty Award. A graduate of Carroll College (now Carroll University in Wisconsin) and Indiana University, he held various local and regional positions with the American Chemical Society. In his retirement, Dr. Mattes has remained a fixture on campus, volunteering his time with the Hastings College Alumni/Foundation Office and for various events.
