Karen Walhof, a founder and the owner of Lutheran University Press, has sold the press to 1517 Media, whose book imprints include Augsburg Books, Augsburg Fortress, Beaming Books, Fortress Press, and Sparkhouse.
Founded in 2000 by Leonard Flachman and Walhof, Lutheran University Press has published biblical, theological and general-interest titles drawn from a range of Lutheran scholars and leaders. 1517 Media creates multimedia resources and distinctive books for Christian communities, higher-education learning and scholars, and the general reader.
Walhof commented: "This is a great next step for Lutheran University Press. I'm thrilled that the imprint and titles are now lodged at Fortress Press, with their progressive vision for book publishing and ongoing commitment to Lutheran authors and readers."
Will Bergkamp, v-p of business development for 1517 Media, said, "The legacy of LUP is an important one, and we are pleased to be able to support the work of these titles through this agreement. Over the years, LUP and Fortress Press have published a number of the same authors, and we're excited that their work can be joined together under one roof."
Tim Blevins, president and CEO of 1517 Media, added: "We believe that a healthy future for religious publishing will involve agreements and partnerships that preserve the rich diversity of voices in the market today. This agreement with LUP is a perfect example of that."