Arlene Z. (Hunt) Pielemeier, ’73, ’77, knows one thing to be true: “I’m a follower of Jesus – that is my purpose in life.”
The foundation of her faith reveals another calling close to her heart: supporting Christian education. Raised in the Free Methodist Church, Pielemeier developed a deep love for her faith, which was strengthened by her education at her Christian high school in Muskegon, Michigan. It was there that she prayed for a future centered on Jesus Christ and an intentional learning environment.
“I remember asking the Lord if I could go to SPU,” she recalled.
Her prayers were answered. Pielemeier moved to the Seattle area in 1961 and began attending Seattle Pacific College part time in 1967. During her time at SPU, she recalled witnessing significant prayer experiences for a student’s cancer recovery. She was also involved in Sigma Gamma Mu, a club for older and returning female students. Pielemeier expressed gratitude for SPU’s unique role as a Christian university in Seattle.
“I think that SPU is very much out in front of what’s happening in the world, while still keeping our balance with the Lord,” she said.
Pielemeier earned both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in education at SPU. She worked as a teacher for 10 years before moving onto her role as a secretary for Boeing, where she met her husband, Phil.
When Phil passed away in 2021, he had already invested money into two gift annuities, which has allowed Pielemeier to receive income while giving back to Seattle Pacific.
“It is the Lord who gives the increase,” she said, quoting 1 Corinthians 3:6-7.
More recently, she created an endowment to support homeschooled students entering their first year at SPU. This is a population she’s always “held close” to her heart.
“This is not my money. It’s the Lord’s money,” she said.
Through her generosity, Pielemeier continues to make a lasting impact on the next generation of learners at SPU.
“I just really appreciate Christian higher education,” she said, reflecting her deep commitment to supporting students. Pielemeier is enjoying her retirement in Redmond, Wash., where she has made close friends in her senior living community. Her adventurous spirit leads her to enjoy road trips
