NLU Alumni Magazine Winter 2024

stay Involved With nlu!

The NLU Alumni Association fosters lifelong connections among alumni and the university through events, programs, and services that engage alumni and support NLU.

Be an alumni mentor

The 30-Minute Mentoring program was created to bring together NLU alumni and students for conversations about career pathways, professional skills, and more.

Inspire an nlu student!

Sign up on May 13-17 to be a mentor via the Alumni Portal.

a ttend the a lumni p anel s eries support nlu alumni!

Return to NLU’s Chicago campus for Alumni in Public Service: Advancing Social Justice in an Election Year with our esteemed alumni panelists:

- Julie Chavez ’95, ’08

- Christa Hamilton ’06

- Lamont J. Robinson ’12

a lumni Weekend 2024

October 18:

All-Alumni Reception and Reach Alumni Awards Ceremony

October 19:

Milestone Class Reunion Lunches for class years ending in 4

Event Date: May 16, 2024

Reception: 5:30pm

Program: 6:00pm

Email invitation to come

reunIte With friends!

Gather with your old classmates and friends on campus for NLU’s new annual alumni tradition.

Be a s o C ial m edia a m B assador

Join us on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn to stay updated about NLU initiatives and share the latest news about NLU with your alumni network.

CeleBrate nlu!

Spread the accomplishments of your alma mater

Create an a lumni p ortal aCC ount

This is your “one stop shop” to engage with your alma mater. Use the alumni portal to learn about volunteer opportunities, news and events, reunions, career services, update your contact information, submit class notes and more!

stay updated!

nl.edu/alumni/alumniaccount-request-form

JOIN TODAY!

INSTITUTIONAL ADVANCEMENT

Christopher Chantson

Vice President of Institutional Advancement

Heidi Bloom Director of Foundation Relations

Vanessa Figueroa

Director of Advancement Operations

Eric Judson

Advancement Associate, Donor and Alumni Engagement

Michael Kenahan

Director of Major Gifts and Sponsorships

Brin Quick Advancement Associate, Foundation Relations

Joel Rittle

Director of Annual Giving

Maddy Schneider Institutional Advancement Coordinator

Arlene Strong Director of External Funding and Grant Development

Michael Zarobe Director of Alumni Relations

website: nl.edu/alumni

email: alumni@nl.edu phone: 312.261.3111

facebook.com/NLUALUMNI

linkedin.com/school/national-louis-university instagram.com/nationallouisu

PRESIDENT’S PERSPECTIVE NIVINE MEGAHED, PH.D.

AROUND NLU

TOP 30 COLLEGES NLU DAY RECAP

ALUMNI RELATIONS UPDATE

FEATURES NURSING COMES TO NLU

ACCELERATE U: INNOVATIVE, JOB-FIRST HIGHER EDUCATION

GROWING TOGETHER: THE THRIVING UNDERGRADUATE COLLEGE AT NLU

COLLEGE UPDATES SCENES FROM UGC SCENES FROM GSBL SCENES FROM KENDALL SCENES FROM NCE

ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT ALUMNA-FOUNDED NONPROFIT ACCELERATES LITERACY LEARNING SNAPSHOTS

Greetings, National Louis University Alumni!

I’m delighted to welcome you to the 2024 issue of The View, in which we recognize our alumni’s achievements, highlight the institution’s continued growth, and celebrate the enduring spirit that unites us as a diverse and accomplished community.

For 137 years, NLU has been a beacon of educational excellence and innovation, shaping minds, fostering leadership, and empowering our students and alumni to make

“Higher education is not a privilege: it’s an opportunity that should be accessible to people of all backgrounds, ages and socioeconomic statuses

– Nivine Megahed

meaningful contributions to society. In this issue, you will find stories that illuminate the transformative power of education and the resilience of our graduates. From the halls of academia to the frontlines of professions that are in high demand, NLU alumni continue to make a profound impact on a global scale. Also in this issue, we explore the ways that NLU is meeting the needs of our learners and helping them prepare for the world of work by expanding our portfolio of programs, including a new nursing program, and healthcare and information technology tracks through Accelerate U, our shortterm credential program. We also share updates from our colleges, including several leadership changes, and continued growth in the Undergraduate College.

Importantly, in an era of declining enrollment and rising doubt about the return on investment for higher education, NLU continues to demonstrate the significant value of our institution’s high-quality, affordable education. In the 2022-23 academic year, NLU grew to serve more than 10,300 students. Our entrepreneurial and innovative spirit is helping NLU remain relevant, with increasing recognition and awards for the ways in which we prepare students for the challenges of today and the opportunities of tomorrow.

In the spirit of collaboration and partnership, I invite you to remain connected with NLU. Attend our events, mentor the next generation of learners, and contribute your expertise to our ever-expanding networks. Together, we will continue to build bridges within and between our communities, ensuring that NLU’s impact resonates and reverberates far beyond our campus walls.

Sincerely,

Nivine Megahed, Ph.D. President

nlu ranked amon G

TOP 30 I n the nat I on

Washington Monthly, which ranks colleges based on contribution to public good, recognized National Louis University at number 30 nationally. As a top 30 institution, NLU joins a prestigious lineup of schools, including all eight Ivy Leagues.

Nivine Megahed, Ph.D, NLU’s President stated “Since opening our Undergraduate College’s doors, we have made it our mission to redefine how institutions of higher education can - and must - remove barriers

that prevent students from entering and graduating from four-year universities with the degrees and professional skills needed to achieve their career goals.

We’re proud to be recognized by Washington Monthly, but our work isn’t done until every student can access and succeed within higher education.”

INAUGURAL NLU DAY A su CC ess

Thank you to everyone who participated in our first NLU Day: Help Our Eagles Soar on April 25, 2023. There were opportunities for members of the NLU community to take part in-person and virtually. A highlight of the day was NLU President Nivine Megahed’s virtual office hour at which she provided an update on the University, and discussed the broader higher education landscape, including tuition costs, college rankings, virtual learning, and diversity.

Students, faculty and staff completed service projects on three campuses with tasks ranging from stocking the food pantry, assembling children’s literacy kits for NLU parenting students, and painting classrooms.

Dr. Linda Caradine-Poinsett

NLU Day was also an opportunity to support the University or specific programs financially. Dr. Linda CaradinePoinsett (BS ’05 and MBA ’07), who received the John Jeffry Louis III Scholarship while earning her master’s degree, paid it forward for future undergraduate students by establishing a scholarship.

Thanks to the generosity of more than 120 alumni, faculty, staff, students and friends, NLU Day raised $110,070, including $58,000 from Trustees and Life Trustees. Planning is already underway for the next NLU Day which will be held on April 25, 2024.

I’m glad to be in a position to make the scholarship happen

- Dr. Linda Caradine-Poinsett

NLU’S ALUMNI R e LAt I o NS takes o ff

The past year has brought an exciting new momentum to the way NLU engages with its 100,000-member alumni community.

Among the highlights:

• A new Alumni Association Board to strengthen our ties with alumni around the globe.

• The launch of the 30-Minute Mentoring Program connecting alumni and students to discuss career pathways, professional skills and more.

• The new Lunch & Learn, in partnership with Career Bridge, showcasing dynamic alumni speakers.

• Annual Alumni Wine Tastings curated by Kendall College’s talented students, chefs and beverage directors.

• A spring alumni reception on Chicago’s North Shore, the first in our regional engagement program.

• Revitalized communication channels, including an alumni e-newsletter, alumni magazine, alumni social media platforms and a new alumni portal, your one-stop-shop to engage with your alma mater.

Still to come in 2024: alumni panel discussions, alumni mentoring weeks, milestone class reunions and a new awards ceremony to celebrate our alumni of achievement.

NURSING CoMeS to NLU

Christopher Chantson Vice President of Institutional Advancement

By 2025, Illinois is projected to need nearly 15,000 new nurses annually, particularly as the general population ages and requires more nurses with advanced skills, and as nurses retire from the workforce. However, Illinois currently graduates only half of the necessary nursing talent every year, due to several factors, including a lack of available slots and schools for prospective students.

National Louis University (NLU) is excited to have launched a new nursing program in Fall 2023 that will help grow Illinois’ healthcare workforce, and expand opportunities for diverse Illinois residents interested in nursing careers. The nursing program also responds to our students’ growing interest in clinical healthcare professions, but who – until now – have had to seek opportunities elsewhere.

2nd row (L-R): Lunch & Learn speakers: Dr. Derrick Mitchell ‘16, Efrain Martinez ‘21 Ed.D., Sharon Burstein ‘74.

3rd and 4th rows: Alumni enjoy the 2022 wine tasting event.

5th row (L): 2023 spring alumni reception attendees Mary Rosenthal ‘96, ‘97, Alice John ‘99, and Sandra Molano ‘23.

5th row (R): 2023 spring alumni reception attendees and Board members Joanne Bynum ‘19, Rhonesia Moore ‘11, ‘13, and Eva Aguirre-Beck ‘11.

Laura Robbins-Frank, PhD, RN, Founding Executive Director of Nursing, is at the helm of this exciting strategy for NLU. Laura previously served as Director of Undergraduate Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Programs at Loyola University in New Orleans, and brings over 38 years of nursing experience to NLU. “I’m delighted to support NLU’s commitment to health equity and to help expand the university’s portfolio to include nursing,” say Dr. RobbinsFrank. “I’ve spent the past 18 years dedicated to nursing education, and I look forward to advancing new generations of nurses at NLU.”

Backed by a growing body of evidence demonstrating better outcomes for patients in hospitals with a higher proportion of nurses with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, NLU is offering four distinct pathways to a BSN.

Registered Nurse (RN) to BSN: This degree program is tailored for registered nurses with an associate’s degree seeking to elevate their education and competence in providing evidencebased nursing care.

Upper-Level BSN Transfer: Aspiring nurses who have completed the necessary science prerequisites will be able to transfer to NLU and gain the necessary clinical skills to deliver patient-centered care across diverse patient demographics and the entire lifespan.

Accelerated BSN: Individuals who already possess a bachelor’s degree in another field will earn a nursing degree in five academic quarters, with more than 690 clinical hours spanning adult and child health, obstetrics, behavioral health and more.

Traditional BSN: This pathway is for traditional college freshman or those who are still early in their college journey. Students will take the necessary pre-nursing courses over the first five quarters of study, and enter the nursing courses in quarter six. Students will complete 720 clinical hours in preparation for practice as a Registered Nurse.

In future years, NLU will build out additional degree pathways, including a Certified Nursing Assistant certificate and School Nurse certificate, as well as graduate and doctoral nursing programs.

The nursing program is housed at NLU’s downtown Chicago campus at 18 South Michigan Avenue, and will soon feature several classroom and learning spaces, including a simulation lab replete with state-of-the-art equipment for practical, hands-on experiences. The space buildout and clinical equipment are partially supported by Congressionally-Directed Spending secured by Senator Dick Durbin.

Laura Robbins-Frank, PhD, RN Founding Executive Director of Nursing

(Top) Rendering of the Interdisciplinary Lab

(Bottom) Rendering of the Simulation Lab and Control Room

Furthermore, the new nursing program aligns with NLU’s commitment to advancing health equity, preparing our students for the future of work, and expanding the university’s portfolio into market-aligned areas. Within the high-needs healthcare sector, this commitment includes our new Accelerate U program, launched in 2021, that provides learners with opportunities to earn short-term credentials leading to upwardly-mobile jobs and careers along with college credit. Accelerate U’s healthcare tracks include Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) and Registered Behavior Technician (RBT).

In addition to the nursing program and the Accelerate U healthcare tracks ( Learn more about Accelerate U on pages 1316), NLU intends to grow our health professions portfolio of programs to include degrees in physical therapy, occupational therapy, and physician’s assistant.

Enrolling in these programs will empower our students to take advantage of burgeoning opportunities in the growing healthcare field, amplifying their employability prospects and potential earnings. Moreover, NLU’s experience in supporting diverse students in advancing in their education and careers will help increase the number of BIPOC healthcare professionals and ultimately foster reductions in healthcare inequities for patients of color.

Innovative Jo B - f irst h i G her e d

Heidi Bloom Director of Foundation Relations

Launched by National Louis University in 2021, Accelerate U epitomizes innovation in program delivery that leads to transformational experiences.

Rendering of the School of Nursing Lobby

Nineteen-year-old Isaiah had graduated from high school and was working at Burger King when COVID-19 hit. The effects of the pandemic motivated him to look into the healthcare field.

Lashon, a forty-year-old single mother of three, was working at Home Depot as a supervisor. When her daughter came down with a serious illness that required multiple hospitalizations, she was deeply moved by the care and compassion shown by the medical assistants.

Inspired to make a career change, both Isaiah and Lashon came to National Louis University (NLU) and enrolled in Accelerate U’s Winter 2022 Medical Assistant training program. Today, they are working full-time as medical assistants – Isaiah at Access Community Health and Lashon at Northwestern Medicine – serving the community, and taking the first step on an upwardly-mobile healthcare pathway.

Not every learner seeking to increase their knowledge and earn a living wage is ready or able to pursue a traditional four-year bachelor’s degree.

NLU created Accelerate U in 2021 to meet the needs of learners who want to generate income immediately for their families and build their skills, while earning college credits toward a degree in the future.

We also recognized that a growing number of employers, particularly in high-demand sectors with significant staffing shortages, are moving towards skills-based hiring models that provide a new, diverse, reliable pipeline of talent.

Accelerate U (AU) works in partnership with Chicago employers to build training pathways that lead to an industry-recognized credential and in-demand job in 6-8 months. Participants learn technical skills as well as durable, career-readiness “soft”

skills such as time management, problem solving, communications and teamwork. Each AU learner completes a 160-hour clinical externship with an employer partner, who often ends up hiring them. They also earn up to 30 college credits that can be applied to any associate or bachelor’s degree at NLU.

The program was designed to be as accessible and affordable as possible. We ask prospective AU students for just three things: a high school diploma or GED, a desire to start a new job immediately upon program completion, and the motivation and commitment to complete the coursework. Students who qualify for the maximum federal and state grants might pay $0 out of pocket and leave with no debt. The average age of AU learners is 23, although we have had program participants ranging in age from their late teens to late fifties.

Flexibility is also a hallmark of Accelerate U. Because our learners have other responsibilities, including jobs and families, coursework and training are delivered in a hybrid fashion. Participants attend twice weekly “live” online classes with their

instructor and weekly cohort coaching sessions remotely. Students in the Medical Assistant training program come to NLU’s campus in downtown Chicago 8-10 times during the six-month training experience for hands-on practice in our specially equipped Skills Lab.

Accelerate U currently offers two healthcare training pathways: Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) and Registered Behavior Technician (RBT). CCMAs assist physicians with clinical treatments or procedures, prepare exam rooms, and perform clerical tasks; RBTs help individuals on the autism spectrum and those with behavioral challenges develop social and life skills.

A third, IT-focused credential, Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA), launched in Fall 2023.

The program also works in partnership with Boston-based nonprofit Propel America to train 18-to-25-year-old opportunity youth in Louisiana, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Rhode Island to be medical assistants. During the 2022-23 school year, Accelerate U served a total of 262 learners in Chicago and nationally.

Thackston Lundy, Vice President of Workforce Pathways at NLU, describes coaching as the “secret sauce” that helps ensure strong outcomes for Accelerate U learners. All participants enjoy a cohort-based experience with a focus on community and belonging, and receive NLU coaching and wraparound supports –including the support and guidance of AU alumni who work as part-time assistant coaches.

Eisha Cloption was Accelerate U’s first Alumni Coach and who Lundy refers to as the “test pilot.” After learning about AU through a Facebook post, she applied and began the Medical Assistant program in Fall 2021. As a busy working mom, she found the structure and pace of the program to fit perfectly with her schedule.

(Top) In the Skills Lab, Medical Assistant students learn how to measure blood pressure.

(Bottom) Members of Accelerate U’s Winter 2022 Medical Assistant cohort.

In the Skills Lab, Medical Assistant students learn how to take vital signs, draw blood, and perform other clinical procedures

The highlight of Accelerate U for Cloption was “how the whole team helped throughout the process – you had that connection with your instructor, you had the connection with the coach, and then having the Skills Lab.”

Today, Cloption plays a key role in that process. “What I do is that extra step from the regular Career Coach,” she explains. “I give them that little push, help them bridge what they may not understand. And I love it! Some of the students have reached out to me and I took them under [my wing]. I see how much it helps getting feedback from the instructor and the coach. Seeing the change makes my day.” Lundy adds that Eisha also supports the team by helping to get paperwork from participants, track externship requirements.

In addition to coaching, Cloption works as a lead medical assistant at Lurie Children’s Hospital. Her journey with Accelerate U continues to shape her path. “It helped me to think, ‘I want to push further,’” she says. She is applying the college credits she earned and taking additional classes at NLU toward a B.S. in Health Care Leadership. “I’m older – a lot of the other students could be my kids – so showing my son that I can go back to school and it doesn’t matter what age you are is my push.”

Cloption’s advice for those considering Accelerate U is that they need to be committed. “If you want to change your future, this is the perfect step. Becoming a medical assistant is the ladder to go into nursing or whatever healthcare field you want to, but you have to have that commitment.”

AN INDUSTRY RECOGNIZED CREDENTIAL

EXPERT FACULTY & COACHES

PRIMARY CONSIDERATION FOR A FULL-TIME JOB ACCESSIBLE & AFFORDABLE

A POSITIVE LEARNING COMMUNITY

HANDS-ON CLINICAL EXPERIENCE

FLEXIBLE, ONLINE LEARNING EXPERIENCE

TRANSFERABLE CREDITS TOWARDS A DEGREE

Eisha Cloption Accelerate U’s first Alumni Coach

For many high school students across the country, enrolling in college remains challenging, leading to disparities in future jobs and lifetime earnings, particularly for people of color. Locally, only 40% of Chicago Public Schools (CPS) students enroll in a four-year institution following high school graduation; of those students, only half graduate from college. Our city is home to nearly 50,000 16-to-24-year-olds who are out of school and out of work, with wide-ranging, systemic implications.

Recognizing the opportunity to help level the playing field for students of all backgrounds, in fall 2015 National Louis University (NLU) launched our undergraduate program, Pathways, to serve students with the potential to succeed in college and career but who are often at greatest risk of not completing a degree.

Pathways was designed to drive equity in bachelor’s degree attainment and employment for students who have been marginalized in college and the workforce, and to do so by knocking down the most common barriers to success.

With annual tuition of $11,000, students who qualify for the maximum federal and state financial assistance can potentially attend NLU for zero dollars out of pocket, eliminating a significant roadblock for many.

In addition to affordability, Pathways students are able to attend in-person and virtual classes with convenient and predictable schedules so that they can balance their education with work and family commitments.

Programs offer clear journeys to degree completion that minimize the time to graduation and that prepare students for a broad range of careers. NLU also offers personalized success coaching and advising, and an array of wrap-

around student supports – made possible by generous donors – that include scholarships, emergency funds, mental health counseling, access to resources for basic needs (including housing and food), and more.

“Pathways is an excellent example of what distinguishes NLU in higher education: an innovative, nimble mindset as an institution, and an unwavering commitment

to equity and access for our students.

“

Importantly, career preparation is embedded starting in the first year, along with a required internship before graduation.

The innovative Pathways model has led to extraordinary growth, starting with 85 students in the 2015-16 academic year, to nearly 1,700 students in 2022-23. Today, 60% of Pathways students are female; 76% are Latinx and 12% Black; and 84% are the first in their family to go to college. More than two-thirds of Pathways students are eligible for federal financial aid.

While outcomes for Pathways students remain strong and exceed national benchmarks, our students continue to face adversity. Veronica Wilson, Executive Director of Undergraduate Student Success, shares that “some of the conversations we’ve had with students around personal or family struggles have had common themes of physical and mental health of family

members, personal mental health, employment concerns of family members (which often require the students to contribute more toward household expenses), and moving/housing.”

She adds that NLU is seeing a slight increase in students returning to NLU after leaving during their first year; many of these students took time off to gain stability in their lives, and are now ready to take on college once again.

Based on the initial success of the Pathways model, in July 2018 NLU established the Undergraduate College (UGC), which – in addition to serving daytime, full-time, first-time freshmen in Pathways – now also impacts adult and transfer students who take courses daytime, evenings and online.

Alongside enrollment growth, NLU has increased the range of programs and opportunities available to students to meet the demands of today’s employment market, including an Honors Program, and new majors in Social Work, Computer Science and Information Systems, and – as of fall 2023 – Marketing. Future plans including growing undergraduate programs in Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM).

As the founding program in our Undergraduate College, Pathways is an excellent example of what distinguishes NLU in higher education: an innovative, nimble mindset as an institution, and an unwavering commitment to equity and access for our students.

NLU’s emphasis on holistic student development ensures that our students are not only academically prepared, but also equipped with the life skills and resilience needed to navigate the challenges of today.

SCENES FROM UGC

UGC Welcomes New Vice President of Undergraduate Studies and Dean

After an extensive search process, NLU announced the appointment of Dr. Jamal Scott as the next Vice President of Undergraduate Studies and Dean of the Undergraduate College. Dr. Scott brings over 25 years of higher education experience to the institution, including several leadership roles.

Most recently, Dr. Scott served as the Vice President of Strategy and Community Development for Waubonsee Community College. In this role, Dr. Scott had oversight of all organizational planning, marketing and communications, admissions, institutional effectiveness, federal and state grants, accreditation, and community outreach. Prior to his work at Waubonsee, Dr. Scott served as a Campus President and Senior National Dean of Program Development for DeVry University.

nl.edu/undergraduate-college/

Founding Dean Leaves Legacy

After seven years of transformative leadership, Aarti Dhupelia recently moved on from her position as Dean of UGC. Working closely with President Nivine Megahed, Dean Dhupelia helped forge NLU into the modern university that it is today.

Dean Dhupelia joined the university in 2015 to start the Pathways Program for first-time freshmen. Leading the program from its inception, Pathways grew from 85 to over 1,600 students, eventually merging with the Undergraduate College, which now serves over 4,000 students annually.

Under her leadership the Undergraduate College became a key pillar supporting NLU’s commitment to educational equity, career readiness, and college affordability, a demonstration of what can be accomplished when schools empower students who are traditionally underserved.

SCENES FROM GSBL

GSBL Announces New Dean and Accelerated MBA

Dr. Janice Nilsen, Ph.D., SHRM-SCP, was recently named Dean of the Graduate School of Business and Leadership. Previously, she was Assistant Professor and Program Director at GSBL.

Under Nilsen’s leadership, the new Accelerated Master of Business Administration was recently launched; students can complete the program in as little as 12 months for $12,000 in tuition.

GSBL is also excited to offer low-residency and online degree programs including an MBA, Doctorate of Business Administration and Master of Science in Business Data Analytics at both our Chicago and Tampa campuses.

SCENES FROM KENDALL

Kendall College as Seen in The Bear

FX’s show The Bear has been gaining international attention. The award-winning show follows the story of a chef who leaves Eleven Madison Park in New York City to run his late brother’s Italian beef restaurant, based on Mr. Beef on Orleans Street in Chicago’s River North neighborhood.

Season two dropped in late June and several Chicago restaurants received shout outs and cameos, including Pequod’s Pizza, Avec, and Ever. Additionally in season two, Kendall College made several appearances as characters Ebraheim and Tina enrolled in Kendall College courses to enhance their culinary skills. The cast attempts to divide and conquer their vision of turning the Italian beef restaurant into a fine dining establishment and Kendall played an important role in these two characters becoming more confident chefs. In a city rich with cuisine and culinary opportunities, it’s clear The Bear showcases the importance of culinary school and that going back to school at any age can be an enriching experience.

Furthermore, not only did The Bear film at Kendall’s 18 S. Michigan Avenue campus, chef instructor Mike Salzinski has his own cameo as he guided the characters through a class.

Kendall College is ranked number one in Chicago, top 5 in the U.S. for its culinary programs, and as one of the top 5 schools in World Hospitality Management.

Graduate School of Business and Leadership

SCENES FROM NCE

The Golden Touch

Two National College of Education (NCE) alumnae, Anquineice Brown (‘17 M.A.T. in Elementary Education) and Addie Wilson (‘06 M.A.T. in Elementary Education), are recipients of the 2023 Golden Apple Awards. The Golden Apple Awards honor outstanding teachers for having lasting, positive effects on students’ lives and school communities. Since Golden Apple began recognizing outstanding Chicago-area (est. 1986) and Rockford, Ill. (est. 1996) educators annually, NCE has had over 80 alumni receive this prestigious award. Award recipients play an important role in preparing the next generation of teachers by providing instruction and mentorship to future teachers in the Golden Apple Scholars and Accelerators programs - programs dedicated to addressing the teacher shortage.

Inaugural Brain Trust Meetings

In May and October, Dean Theard-Griggs attended NCE’s twice-annual Brain Trust luncheons

This alumni group of district and business leaders serve in the capacity of thought leadership, giving direction for teacher preparation, discussing new ideas in education, and providing support and counsel.

NATIONAL

Schneider ’67, ’76, Mike Lubelfeld ’93,’09, Olga Contreras ’02, Sylvia Peters ’59, Dr. Carolyn Theard-Griggs ’00, dean of NCE, Shaunti Knauth, NLU’s director of engaged research, Beth Minor, NCE’s director of education leadership studies, Anquineice Brown ’17, and 2023 Golden Apple Winner, Gloria McDaniel-Hall, NCE professor of educational leadership

Not in attendance: Professor emeritus Carlos Azcoitia ’75 Denise Bunning ’97, Guy Schumacher ’91, ’06.

Barbara Schneider ’67, ’76, Olga Contreras ’02, Shaunti Knauth, NLU’s director of engaged research, Kay Nixon ’96, ’04, Michael Leppen ’74, Merryl Brownlow ’18, Sharon Burstein ’74, Dr. Carolyn Theard-Griggs ’00, dean of NCE, Mike Lubelfeld ’93, ’09, Marcus Campbell ’16

Alumn A-F O unded nO n P r OF

ACC e L e RAte S Lite RACY Le ARN i NG

Reading Power, Inc., an early literacy tutoring program working one-to-one with elementary school children in North Chicago, Waukegan, and Zion schools was co-founded by National College of Education alumna Mary Jane Hender ‘03, Ed.D. The Director of Programs is also an NCE alumna, Kristin Fine ‘96, M.Ed., in Early Childhood Education. Reading Power is also led by CEO Lisa Bulzoni ’87, ’05 and Associate Director Viri Perez ’21

Founded in 2003, Reading Power is modeled after Project Prevent, a program developed by National Louis University, and it also incorporates facets of NLU’s Reading Recovery program.

Over the years, Reading Power has modified its program to incorporate current research and best practices in teaching early literacy.

About her involvement with Reading Power and inspiration from NLU, Kristin Fine says, “My studies at NLU and my time as a teacher taught me that early literacy intervention is critical to children’s educational success, especially in underserved communities. That’s why I started

tutoring with Reading Power over nine years ago and have stayed with the organization in various roles, including my current role.

With the help of partners like NLU, we plan to expand into additional schools and communities in 2024, allowing us to reach even more students.”

My studies at NLU and my time as a teacher taught me that early literacy intervention is critical to children’s educational success “

- Kristin Fine ‘96, Director of Programs

“The non-profit is seeking volunteers to tutor prekindergarten through second grade students. Tutors commit to once-a-week tutoring (2-3 hours) during the school year. No experience necessary; a love for children and reading is required; initial and ongoing training is provided by reading professionals.

(Top) Attendees in October (L-R): Luncheon host Barbara

(Bottom) Attendees in May (L-R): Luncheon host

National College of Education TM

(Top) Anquineice Brown ‘17 (Bottom) Addie Wilson ‘06

(L-R): Viri Perez ‘21, Associate Director, Kristin Fine ‘96, Director of Programs and CEO Lisa Bulzoni ‘87, ‘05, at NLU’s 2023 spring alumni reception.

SNAPSHOTS FROM THE PAST

NLU Alumni Are IMPACTING THE WORLD

ALUMNI AC h I eve M e N t S

1980-90s Grads

Keith Podhradsky ’84, B.A. in Elementary Education, is now a semi-retired nature photographer based in Lisle, Ill. He sends love to the Class of 1984!

Kristin Rydholm ’88, B.A. in Elementary Education, is a freelance educational writer. To read her recent articles for Edutopia, go to edutopia. org/profile/kristin-rydholm.

Robert Vinson Brannum ’91, B.A. in Management, is third VP of the National Association of Colored People (NAACP), D.C. branch. He attended the White House signing ceremonies for the PACT Act in 2022. The Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act will deliver comprehensive benefits to all generations of veterans who have suffered from exposure to burn pits or other toxic substances.

A. Keith Young ’94, M.Ed. in Interdisciplinary Studies, published two books with the Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development (ASCD): The Instructional Coaching Handbook and Training Design, Delivery, and Diplomacy. Both books are available on Amazon and ASCD.com/ people/a-keith-young

Patricia Feager ’95, B.A. in Applied Behavioral Sciences, has been a successful, self-employed residential real estate agent for 20 years in Dallas-Fort Worth, Tex. She relocated to Texas in March 1997 with Abbott Laboratories. After major layoffs in 2002, she became a realtor.

Kristin Fine ’96, M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction, is Director of Programs at Reading Power, Inc., a nonprofit early literacy tutoring organization based in Lake Bluff, Ill. They would love to have more tutor volunteers. Sign up: readingpowerinc.org More Info on Reading Power on page 23

Kevin Miller ’97, M.S. in Written Communication, is working on a short science fiction satire about former President Donald Trump.

Kathie Robinson ’99, M. Ed. in Administration and Supervision, retired in 2019 after 35 years as a teacher and school administrator.

2000s Grads

Untress Quinn ’02, B.S. in Management, has been named managing attorney at Armstrong Teasdale LLP in Edwardsville, Ill.

John Lietzau ’06, M.A.T. in Special Education, is now an author. The Missing Link: Northlake to Whiskey Point has been submitted to his editor for publication. The book spans his 30 year history working as a clinical therapist with adoption as well as searching for his own birth family.

Before attending NLU, a summary of Mr. Lietzau’s M.A. thesis at Northeastern Illinois University on “The Psychology of Adoption” was entered into the Congressional Record when he testified in D. C.

Rosa Higgs ’98, M.A.T. in Elementary Education, has over fifty years of experience as an educator, with a focus on Special Education. She has taught hundreds of struggling students to read during her teaching career. She developed the Read in 40 workbook series, a four volume phonics-based program that helps to teach students how to read in less than 40 hours of direct instruction by decoding words.

Wendy Randall ’02, M.Ed. in Adult Development Studies, is so thankful that her book, Once There Was a Girl: A Memoir, has been translated into Spanish. The Spanish title is Habia Una Vez: Una Nina. Wendy is also a member of the NLU Alumni Association Board.

Felicia Taylor ’03, B.S. in Management, received Certification in Data Analytics in 2021 at Thinkful (a Chegg Service), an online education platform based in NYC.

Cynthia Andrew ’04, B.A. in Applied Behavioral Sciences, received her MBA from DePaul University. She currently is project manager for the realty execution team with Walmart Inc.

Katherine Brown ’05, Ed.D. in Adult and Continuing Education, was celebrated by the American Heart Association during CPR Month in June 2023. Dr. Brown has personally trained over 300,000 people for free in CPR.

John is an award winning environmental science teacher and recipient of a Mission of Service Award for F.A.C.T. (Fathering Accountability and Commitment Training) Workshops in Illinois and Kentucky.

Olivia Pantoja ’06, B.A. in Social Science and ’10 M.A. in Public Policy, has joined Faegre Drinker Consulting in Chicago, Ill. as senior director. Pantoja has served as a government relations consultant at all levels, including federal, multistate, Cook County and the City of Chicago. In addition to her extensive experience representing restaurant groups, health care associations and other industries, she has also served as an adjunct faculty member at NLU.

Don Kahn ’08, B.S. in Management, is a proud alumnus who is now working in the role of senior manager, product management at Wilo USA LLC., a leading pump manufacturer based in Cedarburg, WI.

Tinisa Huff ’09, Certificate in Administration and Supervision, has been a principal at Betsy Ross Elementary School in Forest Park, Ill. for the past four years.

2010s Grads

Ryan Stock ’10, B.A. in Hospitality Management, co-founded a private equity group that includes multiple companies which he also cofounded. He previously had a 15 year career in hospitality, primarily in the luxury sector.

Brad Stueber ’11, B.A. in Hospitality Management, is a bartender at Wailea Beach Resort Marriott in Maui, Hawaii.

Constance N. Frierson ’13, M.S. in Written Communication, ’13 Certificate in Corporate Written Communication, is the writer and producer of Color of Autumn (2023), a film that depicts the story of a young Black girl who is blindsided by racism. For more information, go to colorofautumn.com

Kathleen Zajac ’16, M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction, is currently working as a multilingual teacher and curriculum specialist in Park RidgeNiles CCSD 64 in Ill.

Monica Balesh ’19, M.S. in School Counseling, is currently working for Chicago Public Schools as a school counselor in PK-8 and also entering her dissertation year in NLU’s Counselor Education and Supervision Ed.D. program.

Robin Dakers ’19, Educational Specialist and ’21 Ed.D. in Educational Leadership, was a presenter at the 2021 Florida College Access Network (FCAN) Summit.

N’Kosi Jones ’19, M.S. in Human Services, is truly grateful for NLU. He writes: “I will always deem this prestigious educational institution as my ‘Saving Grace’, as I was forced to approach a ‘fork-in-the-road’ by Argosy University.” N’Kosi is Mayor of Bowling Green, Fla. He is also a member of the NLU Alumni Association Board.

Lynetta Parks ’19, B.A. in Applied Behavioral Sciences, returned to NLU as an adult learner and earned her degree six months before her 50th birthday. The experience was life changing. She now works in social services helping others reach their goals.

2020s Grads

Noah Sachs ’20, PostSecondary Certificate, PACE Program, recently celebrated his five year anniversary at Fulton Market District in Chicago, Ill. and moved into his own apartment.

Dr. Rachel Abel ’21, Ed.D. in Educational Leadership, is continuing to focus on belonging and family engagement in her life.

Juan García ’21, B.A. in Criminal Justice, is a police officer in the Chicagoland area.

Sheldon Kay ’21, M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, works in private practice as a counselor. He pursuing a Ph.D. at University of Georgia.

Tracey Bobitz ’22, M.A.T. in Elementary Education, recently accepted a new position as a special services teacher at School District 54 in Schaumburg, Ill. She will be working with students in grades K-3 at Collins and Hale Elementary Schools.

Tressa Greer ’22, Ph.D. in Community Psychology, is excited to share that her first book, Black Love: The Tips and Secrets to Making Love Last, was recently published (with Dr. Bradley Olson’s guidance). It’s available on Amazon.com.

Marquitta Thomas ’22, M.Ed. in Early Childhood Administration, is a developmental therapist, tutor, family engagement consultant who is passionate about early childhood ed.

Gabriel Lamarra Cunine ’23, M.A. in Public Administration with a Concentration in Nonprofit Management, has been promoted to director of site based programs at Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metropolitan Chicago.

Daniel Walzer ’23, M.A.T. in Secondary Education, thanks the entire NLU faculty, staff, and administration for a formative academic experience!

In Memoriam

Ruth McClung ‘43

Patricia Gorey ‘48

Catherine Mantonya ‘50

Ronald Colton ‘51

Betty Cervantes ‘52

Naomi Erdmann ‘54

Donna Goldberg ‘59

Boyda Hood ‘59

Lucy Leach ‘59

Annette Schaefer ‘59

Virginia Tolk ‘61

Jill Dickens ‘62

John Lagerlof ‘62

Shirley Wolf ‘65

Elizabeth Pagel ‘66

Susan Dunahoo ‘68

B.J. Riedel ‘71

Elaine G. Ray-Radford ‘74

Lucille Whitehead ‘74

Mary Jo Young ‘79

Arlene Staffeldt ‘81

Fern Andersen ‘83

Gloria Grant ‘83

Joan Yingst ‘83

Jane Andringa ‘84

Dan Bell ‘84

Irwin Fieldman ‘84

Charlotte Hughey ‘85

Cynthia Krause ‘85

Rodger Rowland ‘85

Jeanne Boyle ‘87

Doris Gott ‘87

Laurie Palmer ‘87

Billie Wenzel ‘87

Suzanne Woods ‘87

Donna Jeanne Hughes ‘89

John Loupe ‘89, Deborah Welch ‘89

Michelle Worth ‘89

Kenneth Carsley ‘90

Ina Kalnajs ‘90

Frank Stuart ‘90

Jane Schleeter ‘91

Petrine Ashley ‘92

Kay Basile ‘92

Cheri Clum ‘92

Phyllis Cohen ‘92

Raymond Hardt ‘92

Joan McCarthy ‘92

Grace McEwen ‘92

Bennie Tarnow ‘92

Penelope Wagner ‘92

Kenneth Ramsey ‘93

Abbigale Steele ‘93

Jennifer Batiller ‘94

Mary Bellimam ‘94

Manuela Buerkle ‘94

Marie Wheeler ‘94

Carol Carlisle ‘95

Kristine Johnson ‘95

Kelley Kreis ‘96

David Nobles ‘96

Rochelle Singer ‘96

Sabina Cymbal ‘97

William Umbaugh ‘97

Frances Bucci ‘98

Louise Menter ‘98

Jay Ott ‘98

William Kelleher ‘99

Kelly Catrambone ‘00

Patricia DeLancey ‘00

Robert Gillen ‘00

Brian Conlin ‘02

Ward Bones ‘03

Clarke Christian ‘03

Kathryn Poznanski ‘03

Beverly Herbig ‘05

Carnell Williams ‘05

Kelly Ford ‘06

Keith Allchin ‘13

Gail Owens ‘13

Joel Hanshaw ‘16

Molly Harris ‘16

Trenton Kingery ‘17

nlu values

Innovation

As we work to understand and address urgent educational challenges in a diverse and dynamic global era, we refuse to be bound by existing structures or traditional thinking. We apply research and evidence to create forward-looking, sustainable solutions to these challenges.

aCCess

From its founding, NLU has strived to expand access to higher education, especially for those who have historically encountered barriers due to geography, marginality, or economic status. We embrace and build upon the strength that comes from a diverse student body, faculty and staff.

exCellenCe

At NLU, we hold ourselves accountable to bringing each student to a high level of academic achievement and career success. This means we are committed to providing the highest quality academic experience and support services to each student. We continuously work to improve our processes and outcomes.

equity

We believe everyone should have a fair and equal chance at succeeding. Therefore, we provide supports to ensure all of our students have the opportunity to achieve their professional goals and aspirations.

‘19

Siobhan Carroll ‘13

Ebony Humphrey ‘22

Saleha Jawaid ‘22

N’Kosi Jones ‘19

Diana Lehman ‘97

Jennifer Lonchar ‘02

Chrishon Lucien ‘21

Norris Mayes ‘21

Adeel Memon ‘08

Rhonesia Moore ‘11, ‘13

Chiquita Ousley ‘22, ‘23

Pamela Pirtle ‘97

Wendy Randall ‘02

Louise

Ian

Andrea

Celena

Yakirah Robinson ‘19, ‘22

Chrysoula Sarantopoulos ‘14, ‘17

Dr. Angela Schmitz ‘21

Dr. MoDena Stinnette ‘08, ‘09, ‘22

Katrina Stoutmire ‘00

Shelby Thomas ‘21

Phillip Woods ‘16