Wartburg's New Memory Care Facility Earns National Recognition

MOUNT VERNON, NY — A new facility on the Wartburg campus is already creating excitement in the Hudson Valley, and now, the innovative concept is earning recognition nationally.

The Fred E. Lietz Mission Project Award was presented to Wartburg for its Berkemeier Living Center project by the The Lutheran Church Extension Fund (LCEF).

The new building, which is devoted to seniors with memory care issues, will open as a state-of-the-art facility. LCEF helped to finance the ambitious project. The award was presented at the 2023 Annual Meeting in St Louis.

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The Fred E. Lietz Individual Ministry Award is named after the first Executive Secretary for Church Extension at Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod (LCMS), who later served as LCEF’s first president. The Missouri nonprofit membership corporation has funded projects of all types including construction, refinances, land acquisition, business acquisitions, capital improvements, and operational loans for LCMS entities such as life plan communities, social services agencies, school associations, and congregations.

"There are many people to thank for enabling this project to happen, but the Lutheran Church Extension Fund is at the top of the list," Wartburg CEO David J. Gentner said. "Please know that the 2023 Fred E. Lietz Mission Project Award, with all that it stands for, is a proud moment for our organization, and on behalf of our board of directors, thank you."

The Berkemeier Living Center is named in honor of Wartburg’s second president, Reverend Dr. Gottlieb C. Berkemeier, who served as director for thirty-six years.

The design approach to building was intended to compliment the unique character of the campus’ architecture, topography, and neighboring buildings. A residential household model provides more intimate surroundings for residents and families. According to the designers, other considerations include keeping short walking distances, using large windows with views and natural light. The features, combined with high efficiency building systems are expected to ensure a rich, healing environment for living for generations to come.

Each household features its own living, dining and kitchen spaces as well as smaller gathering spaces such as the sunrooms with sweeping views. The first floor features a communal lobby/gallery space for small gatherings and for display of Wartburg history and Berkemeier artifacts. This level also includes a larger event space, music therapy room, and designated areas for service, management, staff, and support spaces.

The building will be LEED (Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design) certified by the U.S. Green Building Council. Attaining LEED certification signifies that a building is exemplary in conserving energy, lowering operating costs and being healthy for occupants.