by Sarah Trask
Class of 2025

Background

As the faculty in residence for worship ministry, Professor Kalli Franz works with mentors, and coaches Crown College worship ministry students. She started working in worship ministry at Westwood Community Church in Chanhassen. There she held a variety of positions engaging with students, leading worship, and overseeing the worship department. About two and a half years ago, she transitioned to Oakwood Community Church in Waconia. She served as worship director for both locations before becoming an adjunct professor for Crown, teaching worship classes. Last year, she attained her current role in the worship ministry program.

Balancing the Realities of Ministry

The importance of encouraging her students in their faith is something that Professor Franz holds strongly. She believes that throughout their time preparing for ministry it is important to help students form realistic expectations. “I always want to remind students of why they are going into ministry in the first place,” Franz says. “I think it is sad to see people leave college having a really beautiful image of ministry and then they get into the real world and realize that it is not what they expected it to be. So, I am real with them. There are wonderful things about ministry, but there are hard things too.”

Inspiring Students to Lead with Faith

Professor Franz says she feels delighted to be a part of molding the next generation of ministry students. “My prayer is that the students I am able to teach and connect with will, first and foremost, prioritize their faith and their relationship with Jesus.” She says she wants them to be encouraged in their gifts and abilities when they leave Crown. Franz desires students to use their skills and talents in the mission field, regardless of whether it is corporate America, ministry, or wherever they find themselves. “If I can play a role in coaching them, then I feel like that is such a privilege and honor.”

Q&A

Question: What class/classes are you most passionate about teaching and why? 
Answer: “Foundations and Principles of Worship Ministry because it teaches the practical side of worship ministry. Students learn the ins and outs of recruiting volunteers, and how to use basic planning software. When you think of a worship role, Sunday morning is such a small part. This class covers the 90 percent of the job outside of Sunday morning. ”

Question: What is your teaching style and how does it inspire academic excellence in your students?
Answer: “I try to incorporate a lot of real-world scenarios. So, I take what we’re learning and apply it to real-life situations because sometimes I find it helpful for students to make that connection when it comes to some of the principles they are learning.”

Question: What advice would have been helpful when you were a student?
Answer: “Prioritize being responsible now. You are strengthening that skill now so that by the time you get to the workforce, it will come easy to you.”

Question: What is your favorite thing about being a professor at Crown College?
Answer: : “Ultimately, working with the students. Being with them and seeing their passion for worship ministry inspires me as a worship leader. Seeing how they have a passion for the church, I am excited to see what the next generation of worship ministry is going to look like. I’m confident that within this generation, the Church will continue to thrive and grow.”