WAVERLY -- Wartburg College President Dr. Jack R. Ohle announced today a gift of $1 million from Dr. Gerald R. Kleinfeld, a professor emeritus of history at Arizona State University.

His gift will fund the Gerald R. Kleinfeld Distinguished Professorship in German History.

Kleinfeld is the founder and former executive director of the German Studies Association, a scholarly organization that hosts the world's largest annual meeting on German and Austrian affairs, politics and culture.

"Wartburg is the last German-immigrant founded college in the United States that still supports active programs and relationships with Germany," said Kleinfeld. "The college's positive connections to Germany are important."

Ohle announced that Dr. Daniel J. Walther, Wartburg associate professor of history and chair of the history department, will serve as the first distinguished professor.

"This gift is unique because it marks a rare occasion when someone who spent his career at a public institution chooses to leave a legacy to a small, private Iowa college," said Scott Leisinger, vice president for institutional advancement. "At a place like Wartburg College, a $1 million gift makes a big difference, whereas it may not have the same impact at a larger institution."

Kleinfeld visited Wartburg in May. While at Wartburg, Kleinfeld also lectured in two classes, including Walther's. He returned in August to meet with Leisinger and others about establishing the professorship.