Tena Schmidt
Dean of Residential Life Program
As Dean of Residential Life, Ms. Schmidt leads the residential community of Honey Creek Hall, fostering an environment where students can flourish academically, socially, emotionally, spiritually, and physically. She works closely with dormitory supervisors, families, faculty, and school administrators to ensure that students receive the support, guidance, and encouragement they need. Understanding the challenges of living away from home, Ms. Schmidt is committed to helping students feel safe and connected. She is dedicated to helping students from around the world adjust to life in a new culture while building friendships and a strong sense of belonging within the school community.
Tena Schmidt was raised on a dairy farm near Green Bay, Wisconsin, where she learned the values of hard work, responsibility, and community from an early age. A graduate of Fox Valley Lutheran High School, a sister school of Wisconsin Lutheran High School, she brings both a deep appreciation for Lutheran education and a passion for helping young people grow and thrive.
After high school, Ms. Schmidt relocated to Connecticut for college and spent many years living throughout New England and the New York metropolitan area. Her professional background includes leadership roles as a staff trainer, household manager, business owner, and property investor. As an adult, Tena furthered her education at Martin Luther College, completing coursework in leadership, administration, and theology as part of her Staff Ministry training. Through these experiences, she developed strong skills in mentoring, communication, organization, and relationship-building, qualities that serve her well in supporting and developing young people and residential staff.
Having traveled extensively throughout the United States and Europe, Tena values cultural diversity and enjoys learning from people of different backgrounds and experiences. She is committed to creating a welcoming residential community where every student feels respected.
Ms. Schmidt is the mother of two adult children and enjoys spending time with family and friends, traveling, reading, sharing a good cup of tea, and engaging in meaningful conversations. She believes that education extends beyond the classroom and that life's most important lessons are learned through relationships, service, and community.
A Message from Dean Schmidt:
"I am delighted that you are considering Wisconsin Lutheran High School. Our residential program is designed to provide a supportive, family-like environment where students can excel academically while developing the life skills, friendships, and confidence that will serve them well into the future.
At WLHS, students have opportunities to pursue rigorous academics, participate in athletics, explore the arts, and discover new interests while living in beautiful Milwaukee. We encourage every student to become involved, challenge themselves, and make the most of their time here.
My goal is for each student in our care to feel valued and inspired to grow. One of the greatest joys of working with young people is seeing them develop their unique gifts and perspectives. I look forward to partnering with students and families as we build a community where everyone can learn, contribute, and thrive."