Staff Writer- Alex Ogle

This week’s Gustie of the Week is Senior Linnea Beckstrom. In her final year at Gustavus, Beckstrom has taken on many responsibilities both academically and personally. She currently has three majors: Political Science, Gender, Women, and Sexuality Studies, and Peace, Justice, and Conflict Studies, with a minor in Religious Diversity in Professional Life. Outside of the classroom, Beckstrom works as the Co-President of the Women’s Action Coalition and as sorority Alpha Sigma Tau’s Director of Belonging. 

Beckstrom found the magic of Gustavus the second she stepped into the classroom. While on a tour of Gustavus in high school, Beckstrom sat in on a class taught by Professor of History Kate Aguilar. She immediately felt the passion of teaching that filled the air, and knew she wanted to attend Gustavus.

“I loved the way she taught and the environment she created in the classroom,” Beckstrom stated. 

Now, four years removed from her first discovery of the Gustavus classroom, Beckstrom has learned to share that same passion and positive environment with everyone she comes into contact with. She throws herself into all the fun activities Gustavus has to offer, specifically participating in the club flag football team. Beckstrom also enjoys helping her fellow students through her hard work in campus organizations, making sure everyone feels welcome.  

Welcoming students with open arms has been a highlight of Beckstrom’s time at Gustavus. She is particularly proud of all the work she has done as the co-president of the Women’s Action Coalition. During her time in the organization, Beckstrom–along with her fellow members–raised a lot of awareness of women’s issues, which in turn expanded the club greatly. Beckstrom expresses her gratitude towards her fellow members for working together to help the Coalition come so far. 

“I love the community of women in the club!”  Beckstrom commented.

Beckstrom highlights a few of these individuals who made her experience here at Gustavus so memorable. Tom Flunker–Gustavus’ Interim Vice President for Community and Belonging, and the Director of The Center for Inclusive Excellence–helped Beckstrom to promote diversity and belonging on campus by connecting her to resources and supporting her goals to make campus more welcoming. Beckstrom also mentions her dear friends–Seniors Madeline Wilker and Rebecca Beranek–who have encouraged and supported her since they met in freshman orientation. 

These individuals have also immensely felt Beckstrom’s love and support throughout the four years of knowing her. Flunker appreciates Beckstrom’s efforts in helping students during Ramadan and bringing more community, belonging, and educational growth opportunities into Greek Life. He also notes how much other students praise Beckstrom’s character, and hopes she will continue her great work after graduation. 

“Linnea is another incredible example of a powerhouse Gustavus student, while also maintaining a sincerity, humility, and genuine care for [the] community. She has definitely left her mark at Gustavus, but has also created an undeniable narrative regarding her capabilities as she prepares for whatever is next,” Flunker said. 

Beckstrom’s friend Beranek had similar notions to Flunker. She admires Beckstrom’s ability to constantly make her community a better place and how dedicated she is to doing so. Beranek knows that with Beckstrom’s big heart, she will be able to accomplish anything she puts her mind to. 

“I know that she will do great things in life, and I can’t wait to continue to cheer her on,” Beranek stated. 

As she wraps up her last year as a Gustie, Beckstrom looks towards the future with big plans and a desire to continue helping others. After graduation, Beckstrom plans on working for a year in the Jesuit Volunteer Corps, then potentially attending law school. Whatever comes Beckstrom’s way, she knows that she is prepared to be the best version of herself.

Beckstrom hopes that others will utilize the same tools and resources that helped her to succeed as a student at Gustavus. The support of a community often leads to brighter days and better opportunities, and Beckstrom knows that with a kind smile and open arms, everyone can do better, just as she helped so many others do, and as so many others did for her.