Bishop Jack Lumanog reflects on a decade of service to the Cornell College Alumni Association

Bishop Jack Lumanog signing citations for honorary alumni on behalf of the Cornell College Alumni Association as President of the Alumni Board.

After 10 years of service, my term on the Cornell College Alumni Board of Directors has come to an end. I reflect on this journey with a mix of deep gratitude and a tinge of sadness. Serving as President of the Alumni Association for two of those years — and as a member of the Cornell College Board of Trustees during that term — has been one of the greatest honors of my life. Representing over 17,000 alumni worldwide and giving back to the College that helped shape me has been deeply fulfilling.

Bishop Jack Lumanog addressing the graduates at the 164th Commencement of Cornell College, May 2022.

I’m immensely grateful to my Alumni Board colleagues, the Alumni Office staff, and the College for placing their trust in me. Together, we spearheaded initiatives that enhanced alumni engagement, organized Homecoming events and honored outstanding alumni with our Alumni Awards granted jointly with the College and the President’s Office. We worked together on Cornell College’s 15-year strategic plan, a pivotal initiative to uphold our legacy of progressive, liberal arts excellence since our founding in 1853.

Bishop Jack Lumanog addressing the graduates at the 165th Commencement of Cornell College, May 2023.

And I will never tire of being proud and celebrating and promoting our progressive history as a liberal arts college. Where women were admitted as students and tenured and paid as full professors from the earliest days of the College. In 1870, Samuel Johnson, when he was enrolled as a student and our student newspaper noted, “He was a slave six years ago.” And, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. spoke in our King Chapel in 1962. This is the Cornell College that I have loved serving this last decade and want to see flourish for many more years to come!

Bishop Jack Lumanog, President of the Alumni Board of Directors, with Cornell College President Jonathan Brand (in academic regalia and Cornell College royal purple Converse) at the 165th Commencement, May 2023.

It was a true privilege to address graduates at the 164th and 165th Commencements and to speak to alumni at Homecoming Convocations. These moments of connection with the Cornell community have all been incredibly special and I will treasure them always.

Bishop Jack Lumanog presents the Young Alumni Achievement Award to Lisa Chen at Cornell College’s Homecoming Convocation, October 2023.

As I step away, I do so with immense gratitude, a bit of sadness, and a heart full of pride for what we’ve accomplished together. Thank you, Cornell, for the lasting impact you continue to make in my life and in the lives of so many others.

Jack Lumanog, ’96

The Right Rev. Dr. Jon I. “Jack” Lumanog is an Anglican Bishop in good standing with the Apostolic Communion of Anglican Churches and the leader of The Anglican Diocese of St. Ignatius Loyola, overseeing clergy and congregations in the United States, South Asia, Africa and Southeast Asia. A pastor and evangelist at heart, Dr. Jack Lumanog has planted, revitalized and led churches, traveling extensively around the world to share the life-changing message of Jesus Christ. He served as a denominational leader for eight years, providing executive-level oversight for more than 1,000 congregations in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Dr. Lumanog is currently pursuing post-graduate studies in Management at Harvard University through the Harvard Extension School. He is an accomplished corporate strategist with extensive experience leading high-impact clinical projects for a Fortune 20 healthcare company.

Cornell College 2023 Homecoming Convocation Address by Bishop Jack Lumanog

The 2023 Homecoming Convocation at Cornell College was a profoundly meaningful event for Jack Lumanog, marking his final act as President of the Alumni Board. Reflecting on cherished memories and the institution’s impact, he expressed gratitude to those who contributed to the ceremony’s success and reaffirmed his ongoing commitment to Cornell’s mission.

As I write this, my heart is filled with an overwhelming sense of gratitude and nostalgia. The 2023 Homecoming Convocation, held at our beloved alma mater, was not merely an event but a profound experience for me that has left an indelible mark in my heart. It was a privilege and honor to preside over this momentous occasion, marking my last official act as the President of the Alumni Board of Directors for the Alumni Association.

Cornell College holds a special place in my heart. It was here that I discovered my passion, nurtured my talents, and forged lifelong friendships. The spirit of Cornell – its commitment to academic excellence, community engagement, and personal growth – has shaped me into the person I am today. Serving as the President of the Alumni Board of Directors has been a tremendous responsibility, but it has also been a labor of love. It has allowed me to give back to an institution that has given me so much and to connect with fellow alumni who share my deep affection for Cornell.

The Homecoming Convocation was a celebration of our shared heritage and the enduring values that define us as Cornellians. It was a joyous occasion filled with laughter, tears, and moments of profound reflection. Seeing familiar faces from years gone by and meeting the next generation of Cornellians filled me with hope and optimism for the future.

As I presided over the Convocation, I was reminded of the words of our alma mater:

“When from thee we’re far away,
tears of mem’ry dim our eyes,
as loved scenes before them rise,
then we’ll sing and then we’ll say:
Cornell greater be thy name.”

“Cornell, Greater Be Thy name”
Jennie Francis Cook (Class of 1910) and T. Stanley Skinner
“When from thee we’re far away,
tears of mem’ry dim our eyes,
as loved scenes before them rise,
then we’ll sing and then we’ll say:
Cornell greater be thy name.”
– “Cornell, Greater Be Thy name”
Jennie Francis Cook (Class of 1910) and T. Stanley Skinner

In today’s fast-paced and often chaotic world, our beloved Hilltop remains a sanctuary of learning and enlightenment. It is a place where students are encouraged to question, explore, and grow, and where alumni are inspired to make a difference in their communities and beyond.

While my tenure as the President of the Alumni Board of Directors may be coming to an end, my commitment to Cornell College and its mission remains unwavering. I am excited to see where the next chapter of the Alumni Association’s journey will take us and look forward to supporting its future endeavors as a proud member of the Cornell community.

In closing, I want to express my deepest gratitude to everyone who made the 2023 Homecoming Convocation a resounding success. To President Jonathan Brand, our amazing Alumni Office, Alumni Board colleagues, organizers, volunteers and attendees – thank you for your passion, dedication, and love for Cornell College. As I step down from my role as President of the Alumni Board of Directors, I do so with a heart full of gratitude and a spirit renewed by the enduring legacy of our alma mater.

Until we meet again on the Hilltop,

Jack Lumanog ’96

The Right Rev. Dr. Jon I. “Jack” Lumanog is an Anglican Bishop in good standing with the Apostolic Communion of Anglican Churches and the leader of The Anglican Diocese of St. Ignatius Loyola, overseeing clergy and congregations in the United States, South Asia, Africa and Southeast Asia. A pastor and evangelist at heart, Dr. Jack Lumanog has planted, revitalized and led churches, traveling extensively around the world to share the life-changing message of Jesus Christ. He served as a denominational leader for eight years, providing executive-level oversight for more than 1,000 congregations in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Dr. Lumanog is currently pursuing post-graduate studies in Management at Harvard University through the Harvard Extension School. He is an accomplished corporate strategist with extensive experience leading high-impact clinical projects for a Fortune 20 healthcare company. 

Bishop Jack Lumanog Featured Speaker at the 165th Commencement of Cornell College

The Right Rev. Dr. Jon I. “Jack” Lumanog spoke at Cornell College’s 165th Commencement, reflecting on his transformative experiences there. He thanked the college for shaping his life and encouraged the Class of 2023 to embrace challenges and believe in their potential. Lumanog is an Anglican Bishop leading a diverse global diocese.

Recently, I had the distinct honor and privilege of serving as a featured speaker for the 165th Commencement ceremony at my beloved alma mater, Cornell College. To stand once again on the Hilltop, where my journey in faith and learning began, was both humbling and exhilarating.

Cornell College holds a special place in my heart. It was here that I not only received a world-class education but also discovered my calling and purpose in life. The lessons learned, friendships forged, and experiences gained during my time at Cornell have shaped me into the person I am today. Returning to share my insights and wisdom with the graduating class is something that I will cherish forever.

I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to President Jonathan Brand, faculty and staff of Cornell College for inviting me to be a part of this great day. I am grateful for the opportunity to give back to the institution that has given me so much.

To the Class of 2023, congratulations on your remarkable achievement! As you embark on this new journey, remember to stay true to yourselves, embrace life’s challenges with courage and grace, and never stop learning and growing. The world is full of endless possibilities, and I have no doubt that each of you will go on to achieve great things.

May you always have faith in yourselves, trust in your abilities, and believe in the power of your dreams.

God bless you all, and once again, thank you, Cornell College, for the memories, the lessons and the opportunity to come home to the Hilltop.

The Right Rev. Dr. Jon I. “Jack” Lumanog is an Anglican Bishop in good standing with the Apostolic Communion of Anglican Churches and the leader of The Anglican Diocese of St. Ignatius Loyola, overseeing clergy and congregations in the United States, South Asia, Africa and Southeast Asia. A pastor and evangelist at heart, Dr. Jack Lumanog has planted, revitalized and led churches, traveling extensively around the world to share the life-changing message of Jesus Christ. He served as a denominational leader for eight years, providing executive-level oversight for more than 1,000 congregations in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Dr. Lumanog is currently pursuing post-graduate studies in Management at Harvard University through the Harvard Extension School. He is an accomplished corporate strategist with extensive experience leading high-impact clinical projects for a Fortune 20 healthcare company.

Bishop Jack Lumanog Featured Speaker at 2022 Cornell College Commencement

The Right Rev. Dr. Jack Lumanog, a 1996 Cornell College graduate, spoke at the 164th Commencement on May 8, 2022. Serving as President of the Alumni Association and a Trustee, he is the first person of color to hold this position since the Association’s founding in 1873, engaging with global alumni.

The Right Rev. Dr. Jack Lumanog was one of the featured speakers for the 164th Commencement ceremony at Cornell College on May 8, 2022.

Dr. Lumanog graduated from Cornell College in 1996 and is the President of the Alumni Association Board of Directors and member of the Cornell College Board of Trustees.

Bishop Lumanog is the first person of color to serve as President of the Alumni Association at Cornell College since its establishment in 1873 and helps lead in engagement with 17,000 graduates of the college around the world.

Bishop Lumanog delivering one of the featured addresses at the 164th Commencement ceremony at Cornell College on May 8, 2022.
Dr. Jack Lumanog with President Jonathan Brand, the 15th president of Cornell College.
Bishop Jack Lumanog is a proud 1996 graduate of Cornell College.

Cornell College Board of Trustees Welcomes Bishop Jack Lumanog

Bishop Jack Lumanog, President of the Cornell College Alumni Association, also serves as an ex officio member of the Board of Trustees, focusing on alumni and student engagement. The Board governs Cornell College, overseeing policies related to its mission and operations. Lumanog is a 1996 graduate of the institution.

As part of his term as President of the Cornell College Alumni Association, Bishop Jack Lumanog also serves as an ex officio member of the Cornell College Board of Trustees. The Bishop is tasked with creating greater engagement with the 17,000 alumni as well as for current students as a Trustee member of the Student Experience Policy Committee.

The Board of Trustees is the governing body of Cornell College which formulates policies governing the operation of the College that are necessary to carry out the College’s mission—its educational programs, its financial affairs, the physical plant, and the quality of student life. The Bishop is a proud 1996 graduate of Cornell College, which was founded in 1853 in Mount Vernon, Iowa.

Bishop Jack Lumanog Appointed President of Cornell College Alumni Association

Bishop Jack Lumanog has been appointed President of the Cornell College Alumni Association Board of Directors, marking him as the first person of color in this role since its 1873 inception. A proud 1996 graduate, Lumanog also serves as an ex officio member of the Board of Trustees. He is an Anglican Bishop and experienced church leader.

Bishop Jack Lumanog with Jonathan Brand, President of Cornell College

(Mount Vernon, Iowa) — At the October 2021 Homecoming meeting, Bishop Jack Lumanog was officially named as President of the Cornell College Alumni Association Board of Directors. As President, Bishop Lumanog will serve the 17,000 alumni of Cornell College and as an ex officio member of the Board of Trustees.

The Bishop is a proud 1996 graduate of Cornell College in Mount Vernon, Iowa and is also the first person of color named to the position of President of the Alumni Association since its establishment in 1873.

The Right Rev. Dr. Jon I. “Jack” Lumanog is an Anglican Bishop in good standing with the Apostolic Communion of Anglican Churches and the leader of The Anglican Diocese of St. Ignatius Loyola, overseeing clergy and congregations in the United States, South Asia, Africa and Southeast Asia. A pastor and evangelist at heart, Dr. Jack Lumanog has planted, revitalized and led churches, traveling extensively around the world to share the life-changing message of Jesus Christ. He served as a denominational leader for eight years, providing executive-level oversight for more than 1,000 congregations in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Dr. Lumanog is currently pursuing post-graduate studies in Management at Harvard University through the Harvard Extension School. He is an accomplished corporate strategist with extensive experience leading high-impact clinical projects for a Fortune 20 healthcare company.

Bishop Jack Lumanog Becomes President-Elect of Cornell College Alumni Association

Bishop Jack Lumanog is president-elect of the Cornell College Alumni Association Board of Directors and the first person of color named to this position since its establishment in 1873.

More from the Cornell College website:

Jack Lumanog, 1996

Jack Lumanog is president-elect of the Cornell College Alumni Association Board of Directors and the first person of color named to this position since its establishment in 1873.

In April 2019, Jack was ordained a bishop in the Anglican Diocese of St. Ignatius Loyola. The diocese, headquartered in Atlanta, seeks “to raise up multicultural churches that are firmly rooted in the Anglican tradition and fully alive to the power of the Holy Spirit.”

Previously Jack was chief operating officer of the Anglican Church in North America, responsible for overseeing 1,050 congregations in the U.S., Canada and Mexico. He also served as corporate secretary and trustee of the Anglican Relief and Development Fund-US, the giving arm of the Anglican Church. The Diocese of St. Ignatius Loyola is part of Apostolic Communion of Anglican Churches and is unrelated to the Anglican Church in North America.

Jack is a lieutenant colonel and volunteer chaplain in U.S. Air Force Auxiliary Civil Air Patrol. He has had a number of leadership roles here, including serving as special assistant to the national chief of chaplains. He was honored on separate occasions as chaplain of the year by the Kansas and Great Lakes regions of the organization.

He is a lifelong martial artist with a 4th degree master black belt and has won several titles in competitions sponsored by the North American Sport Karate Association.

He holds a master of divinity degree from St. Paul Theological Seminary and a doctorate in counseling and administration from Andersonville Theological Seminary.

A native of Hoboken, N.J., Jack majored in religion at Cornell, with minors in theater and communications, music, psychology, and education. He worked on KRNL and was a member of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. “My religion degree shaped me into the theologian I am today,” Jack wrote. “Ebersole Student Health Clinic saved my life as I struggled with depression. The treatment I received there established a pattern of metal wellness I carry to this day.”

The Right Rev. Dr. Jon I. “Jack” Lumanog is an Anglican Bishop in good standing with the Apostolic Communion of Anglican Churches and the leader of The Anglican Diocese of St. Ignatius Loyola, overseeing clergy and congregations in the United States, South Asia, Africa and Southeast Asia. A pastor and evangelist at heart, Dr. Jack Lumanog has planted, revitalized and led churches, traveling extensively around the world to share the life-changing message of Jesus Christ. He served as a denominational leader for eight years, providing executive-level oversight for more than 1,000 congregations in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Dr. Lumanog is currently pursuing post-graduate studies in Management at Harvard University through the Harvard Extension School. He is an accomplished corporate strategist with extensive experience leading high-impact clinical projects for a Fortune 20 healthcare company.