Jan Carlberg
Author & speaker.
Janice Dawn Jensen Carlberg grew up as the daughter of two ministers — her father a pastor, her mother a published author of inspirational Christian books — and credits her Norwegian grandmother's storytelling with helping shape her own gift for narrative. That blend of faith and story would go on to define her life's work.
Before her decades at Gordon College, Jan spent six years teaching grades 8–12 in public schools. Her Gordon story began in 1978, when her husband, Jud, joined as academic dean and Jan took a role in student development. She co-created a reimagined student Orientation program that grew into a Gordon tradition, and she launched a beloved campus spoof variety show. She also served as Gordon's first director of women's ministries at a nearby church, taught community Bible studies, and served on the board of Vision New England, emceeing gatherings that drew thousands of attendees each year.
Jan is a published author. Her books include The Hungry Heart: Daily Devotions from the Old Testament (Hendrickson, 1997) and The Welcome Song: And Other Stories from a Place Called Home (Fleming Revell, 1999), along with contributions to other collaborative works. She continues to write today.
When Jud became Gordon's seventh president in 1992, Jan stepped into the role of First Lady, serving in that capacity until 2011. She became known across campus for her storytelling, her hospitality — hosting hundreds of gatherings for students, faculty, and staff — and her deep well of empathy. Students and colleagues affectionately came to know her as "the campus grandmother."
In recognition of her impact, Gordon College awarded Jan an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters in May 2015, citing her compassionate spirit and her commitment to servant leadership. In 2024, Gordon honored her again with its Lifetime Achievement Award, recognizing decades of service to the college and its community.
Jan and Jud were married for over 51 years, until his death in 2014. She served on the vestry at Christ Church. Today Jan continues to write, speak, and mentor, and publishes her long-running blog, Notes from Jan, which began as updates during Jud's final illness and has since grown into hundreds of reflections on faith, family, and everyday life. She resides in Gloucester, Massachusetts, and is the mother of two and grandmother of five, staying closely connected with family on both coasts.