For Augustana University alumni Sarah Nohr ‘21 and William Kruse ‘21, what began as a chance reuniting on the university’s campus grew into something much more.
The two attended preschool and kindergarten together at Christ the King and St. Lambert’s Elementary Schools in Sioux Falls. Shortly after, however, Kruse’s family moved to Spirit Lake, Iowa. After more than a decade, Kruse moved back to South Dakota, where he joined the Augie Access Program — Augustana’s certificate program for students with developmental and intellectual disabilities.
“It was an amazing experience just to be with other individuals who were different from me,” said Kruse, who was diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder when he was a baby. “I was able to learn a lot of new things and even made some new friends, too."
He also found a familiar face.
“I remember seeing him and wondering where I recognized him,” laughed Nohr. “My mom later explained to me that it was Will from kindergarten.”
The Augie Access Program provided them the opportunity to live on campus and be involved in several different activities and organizations, as well as take part in several internships. Kruse said he was the first student in the program to be part of the band — playing trombone in Augustana’s Blue & Gold Band and the Trombone Choir. Despite being diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Nonverbal Learning Disorder (NVLD), Epilepsy and Hydrocephalus, Nohr was the first in the program to earn a minor (in history).
“Trendsetters, we blazed the trail,” joked Nohr.
At different times, both Nohr and Kruse were also involved in the Augustana Student Association (ASA) — serving as members of the organization’s Diversity, Equity & Social Justice Committee.
“It was a lot of fun getting to go to meetings and meeting with people about what they wanted the (ASA) Senate to accomplish,” said Nohr. “It kind of taught you how government works, too.”
The couple enjoyed their friendship for a while before becoming more, strengthening the bond they already shared.
“I told him I needed to be single for a while,” explained Nohr.
“I told her I would wait as long as it takes,” Kruse responded.
The two, who share birthdays, had their first date over breakfast in the Morrison Commons and remained together after graduating from the Augie Access Program in May 2021. 
Shortly after Valentine’s Day in 2025, with the temperature at just 10 degrees, Kruse recruited some family members to help him shovel a heart in the snow on Augustana’s campus. He led Nohr to the spot near the Fryxell Humanities Center, recited a poem he had written for her and proposed marriage. Of course, she said “yes.”
The pair plan to tie the knot in Augustana’s Chapel of Reconciliation on Sept. 18, 2027, with Kruse’s pastor from Our Savior’s Lutheran (OSL) Church presiding over the ceremony.
“He proposed at Augustana, and we started dating there, so it just made sense that our wedding would be there, too,” said Nohr.
They are thrilled to start the next chapter of their lives together.
“She brings a smile to my face when I’ve had a bad day,” mentioned Kruse.
“And he makes me feel safe and loved,” Nohr added. “I wouldn’t trade him for anything.”
Both Nohr and Kruse expressed their appreciation for the support they have received from their parents and the community at Augustana. They believe that the Augie Access Program set them up for success, both academically and in their relationship.
“Not only did we take classes with other students, we had experiences that we probably wouldn’t have had if we didn’t come here,” said Nohr.
“It was an amazing three years being here,” explained Kruse. “I got to see and explore what possibilities were available to Sarah, myself and other students.”
Nohr currently works at Dillard’s in the Empire Mall and hopes to one day become a published author. Kruse is employed at Sanford Health as a food service assistant and has dreams of becoming a stand-up comedian.
