LIGHTING THE PATHWAY TOGETHER
We are proud to have Katie Fischer and Jerry Enzler as dedicated volunteers at the Lantern Center. With Katie’s background as a retired professor, and Jerry’s nonprofit leadership experience, they both bring invaluable skills and a deep commitment to supporting our immigrant community.
Katherine Fischer
Professor of English Emerita, Clarke University
“Conjugating verbs? After decades in classrooms, I teach that easily. But explaining the Dickeyville Grotto or “Big Bang Theory” TV? Exploring CNA medical terminology? Translating American culture? Volunteering first at the Lantern Center over ten years ago, I was in the dark. Light after light came on as I met with students from Ethiopia, Iran, India, South Korea, Mexico, Brazil, Mali, and elsewhere. Together we laugh at the oddities of English. We trade injera for zucchini bread. They share stories from home, often including poverty and trauma. I hear of sheltering animals for warmth and safety in their own homes. Through Lantern Center, students find homes and jobs, enter school, and nurture their children. They look to the Lantern Center for safety and comradery.
I discover a fresh love of democracy. Along this pathway, my view of otherness stretches, reaches out its arms, and expands into the light of a fuller appreciation of humanity.
I teach them English. They teach me the world.”
Jerry Enzler
President Emeritus, National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium
“Visiting over a dozen countries, I realized I needed to depend upon people for directions, food, lodging, shopping, and customs because of our language differences.
The past two years I have volunteered at the Lantern Center to help immigrants from Ukraine, Brazil, India, and Afghanistan, teaching English, assisting citizenship, and even moving furniture. I appreciate more fully than ever the difficulties outsiders face in our region.
After heading up a nonprofit organization for decades, I appreciate how important it is for the Lantern Center to seek support to accomplish its mission. Lantern Center staff work diligently to provide essential services to newcomers who work, learn, and raise families here. Your gift will enable the center to help our new neighbors live the American dream, becoming community members who enrich everyone’s lives.”

“Together we hope you join us in supporting the Lantern Center’s vital role in Dubuque and its surrounding communities. America was founded on the hopes of immigrants. Your gift will keep that dream alive!”
— Katie & Jerry
Katie, pictured above with her husband Jerry, was honored with the Lantern Award, our highest recognition for volunteers, along with a 10-year service award at our Volunteer Appreciation Picnic on June 25, 2025.