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Merton P. Strommen, Ph.D
Founder of The Youth & Family Institute

Dr. Strommen, a research psychologist, founded both Search Institute in Minneapolis, MN and the Youth and Family Institute. He has conducted more than thirty research projects on youth and family ministry. As a Lutheran clergyman, he has served as a parish pastor, college pastor, and national youth director.

He has published numerous articles in both psychological and religious journals. His research has connected him with many Christian denominations. Some of the books he has authored or co-authored are: A Study of Generations, Five Cries of Youth, Five Cries of Parents, Five Cries of Grief, and most recently, Passing On the Faith.

Dr. Strommen and his wife, Irene, live in Richfield, Minnesota, a suburb of Minneapolis. They are active members of Oak Grove Lutheran Church. They were gifted with five sons. David's, one of their sons, tragic death led to the founding of the Youth & Family Institute. They continue to celebrate life in Christ with their children and grandchildren.

Dr. Strommen works diligently as a co-director of the Augsburg Centennial Singers. They perform concerts in the area to support the ministry of the Institute.