Dr. William “Bill” Nau Receives the 2025 Fred E. Lietz Individual Award
The Southeastern District joyfully celebrates Dr. William (“Bill”) Nau as a 2025 recipient of the Lutheran Church Extension Fund’s Fred E. Lietz Individual Award, honoring extraordinary dedication to Gospel-centered ministry and the mission of Church Extension.
Presented at LCEF’s Annual Meeting in St. Louis on November 7, this award recognizes individuals who model the faithful, visionary spirit of Fred E. Lietz, the first President and CEO of LCEF. In announcing this year’s honorees, LCEF President & CEO Rev. Bart Day praised Bill for his entrepreneurial leadership, servant heart, and decades of commitment to strengthening early childhood ministries across the Southeastern District.
Bill’s work has profoundly shaped the landscape of early childhood and congregational ministry within the SED. He has poured countless hours into helping congregations establish, stabilize, and expand their school and childcare programs—often stepping in during crisis moments, always with grace, expertise, and a deep love for Christ’s Church.
One shining example is Christ Community Open Arms in Leesburg, Virginia, where Bill led the development of a project exceeding $10 million. Today, the center stands as one of the region’s top-rated early childhood programs. But this is only one story among many. Bill’s financial forecasting and ministry consultation have guided congregations such as New Hope (Chesterfield, VA), Good Shepherd (Midlothian, VA), Vine and Branches (Aldie, VA), and New Hope (Stafford, VA) from instability to thriving sustainability. His business acumen, strategic clarity, and commitment to mission have helped transform early childhood ministries into powerful community outreach opportunities.
Bill Nau Fred E. Lietz Award
Bill has also served faithfully at the national level. During the COVID-19 shutdown, he developed training for all LCEF District Vice Presidents, equipping them to better serve congregations managing early childhood programs. He has long served on the Southeastern District Loan Committee and as a member-at-large on the LCEF Board of Directors, including service on its Nominating Committee.
Rev. Bart Day summarized Bill’s ministry impact in his award announcement:
“Bill, your dedication to early childhood ministries of the Southeastern District is to be celebrated and commended. You have brought your entrepreneurial spirit and business acumen to not only rescue struggling ministries, but you have helped so many to thrive and grow in serving Christ and neighbor. You have tirelessly given your time and talents long into retirement; a gift that will bear fruit for decades to come.”
The Southeastern District gives thanks to God for Bill’s tireless service, wise leadership, and joyful witness to Christ. His efforts have strengthened countless ministries and extended the mission of the Church for generations to come.
Congratulations, Bill, on this well-deserved honor!