ALSO INSIDE: President’s Report Tribute to Al Carius
Faculty process into the Wentz Concert Hall for the investiture of Dr. Abiódún Gòkè-Paríolá, 12th president of North Central College.
06 College News
The content deadline for this issue was Nov. 12, 2025.
27 Class Notes 33 Alumni Calendar IN EVERY ISSUE
08 President’s Letter 25 Reflection
FEATURE STORIES
02 The Investiture of Dr. Abiódún Gòkè-Paríolá
Enjoy photos and coverage from Nov. 6, 2025, when the North Central College community gathered to formally install its 12th president in the institution’s 164-year history.
08 President’s Report
President Gòkè-Paríolá provides a comprehensive update on North Central College — including NCForward, the College’s strategic vision plan.
13 Tribute to Al Carius
Family, friends, alumni, colleagues, and community members remember Coach Al Carius, who left an immeasurable impact and a legacy of kindness, wisdom and excellence.
21
Homecoming 2025
Highlights from a weekend to remember as Cardinals from across many eras came home to celebrate what makes North Central College so special.
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Editorial Director
Kim MacGregor
Creative Director
Mary Bass M’21
Contributing Writers/ Production
Jared Bogan M’10
Jeremy Borling ’02
Hannah Brauer M’25
Taiah Gallisath ’20/M’23
Nancy Jensen
Kara Kots ’18/M’23
Jordan Miller ’22/M’24
Nicholas Osterloo ’19/M’21
Mary Reynolds
Breanne Sheffer ’25/M’27
Vice President for Communication and External Affairs
Jim Godo ’93
Vice President for Institutional Advancement
Rachel Gamarra
Please direct all correspondence to: Editorial Director North Central College 30 N. Brainard St. Naperville, IL 60540
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A HISTORIC OCCASION
DR. ABIÓDÚN GÒKÈ-PAR Í OLÁ
INSTALLED AS 12 TH PRESIDENT OF NORTH CENTRAL COLLEGE
Dr. Abiódún Gòkè-Paríolá was formally installed as the 12th president of North Central College during an investiture ceremony on Nov. 6, 2025. The historic occasion was attended by Gòkè-Paríolá’s family, campus community members – students, faculty and staff – as well as alumni, College trustees, and community leaders.
Gòkè-Paríolá was appointed president of North Central College in July 2024. An investiture is an academic tradition marking the formal installation of a new president – an opportunity for campus and community leaders to celebrate an institution’s history while bestowing the presidential symbols of authority.
The ceremony began with faculty in academic regalia leading a procession into the Wentz Concert Hall as students in the Concert Winds ensemble performed “Proud Heritage” by William Latham under the direction of Dr. Lawrence Van Oyen, professor of music and director of bands.
Rev. Max Blalock, College chaplain, offered a greeting and introduced Rev. Dan Schwerin, who delivered the invocation by video. Schwerin is bishop of the Northern Illinois and Wisconsin Conferences of the United Methodist Church and a member of the North Central College Board of Trustees.
Continued on next page.
During the investiture ceremony, speakers delivered messages representing the College and Naperville communities:
STUDENTS
Vince DeMaio ’27
President, Student Governing Association
FACULTY
Dr. Mary Beth Ressler
Faculty Speaker
STAFF
Kristin Arredia ’10 Guido M’13
Co-Chair, Staff Council
ALUMNI
Connor McGury ’18/M’20
President, Alumni Board
HIGHER EDUCATION
Dr. Kimberly Sluis ’99
Vice President, Postsecondary Education
Strada Education Foundation
CITY OF NAPERVILLE
Scott Wehrli ’91
Mayor, City of Naperville
VIEW THE RECORDING OF THE INVESTITURE CEREMONY:
Contined from previous page.
Michael R. Naset, chair of the board of trustees, presided over the ceremony. After welcoming guests, he introduced representatives from across the College community and beyond to share messages of congratulations and support for the president.
The speakers included Connor McGury ’18/M’20, president of the North Central College Alumni Board. “In President Gòkè-Paríolá, we as alumni see a leader who not only understands and actively celebrates the legacy of North Central College, but one who also challenges us to think bigger, go further, and be daring in our next chapter,” McGury said during his remarks.
Dr. Kimberly Sluis ’99, an alum and former member of the senior leadership team at North Central, spoke from the perspective of her current role as vice president, postsecondary education, at the Strada Education Foundation.
initiated the NCForward Strategic Vision Plan as a roadmap for the College’s future.
Dr. Donnavieve Smith, associate professor of marketing and Grantman Professor in Business and Economics, introduced the formal installation of the president by providing historical context, including describing the symbols of the office.
Naset then installed Gòkè-Paríolá as president and presented him with the College’s presidential medallion. Engraved with the North Central College seal, the medallion is inscribed with the names and service dates of the previous 11 presidents going back to the College’s founding in 1861. The presidential medallion is worn by the president during all ceremonies that include academic regalia.
I will do everything in my power as president to fulfill the responsibilities before me, every single day, with an unwavering focus on ensuring the success of our students who have honored us with the privilege of traveling along with them at this stage of their life journey as teachers, co-learners, mentors, coaches and cheerleaders.”
President Gòkè-Paríolá in his investiture speech
“Faculty, staff, alumni, friends, trustees,” she said, “this is where the rest of us come in. The College has chosen a great leader, but we know that the greatest of leaders are surrounded by enthusiastic and supportive communities.”
Scott Wehrli ’91, mayor of the City of Naperville, spoke on behalf of the Naperville community. “I am honored to congratulate my friend, Dr. Gòkè-Paríolá, on his investiture as North Central College’s 12th president,” he said. “Just as Naperville is on the verge of the future, today we celebrate North Central entering its next chapter. Naperville and North Central move best when we move together, and I’m confident that our shared story will continue to grow under President Gòkè-Paríolá’s leadership.”
Gòkè-Paríolá arrived at North Central in 2015 as the College’s provost and vice president for academic affairs, a role in which he served for nine years. During that time, he led an expansion of academic offerings, including new undergraduate majors in engineering, neuroscience, environmental studies, health science, and nutrition, along with a growing suite of graduate health science programs. In his first year as president, he
Dr. Kristin Geraty, provost and vice president for academic affairs, introduced Gòkè-Paríolá before delivery of his investiture speech. In her remarks, she described his leadership style. “The presidency,” she said, “has amplified some of (his) best qualities: his ability to clarify complicated issues, to make uncertain moments feel more manageable, to bring people together through stories, and above all, his deep commitment to students and their experience at North Central.”
Geraty later returned to the podium with an announcement that the College’s senior leadership team contributed a seed gift to the newly named President Abiódún Gòkè-Paríolá Student Persistence Fund. Moving forward, it will be a fundraising priority to build the fund to ensure students can continue their education, earn their undergraduate degree, and walk across the stage at Commencement.
Tracie Morris ’02, vice chair of the board of trustees, congratulated Gòkè-Paríolá on behalf of the College community. To close the ceremony, Dr. Perry Hamalis, Cecelia Schneller Mueller Professor of Religion, gave the Benediction before the Concert Choir led the singing of the Alma Mater.
We must not retreat from our founding core values as a community defined by love, justice and grace, not just through words, but through practice. These are the principles that will continue guiding my presidency.”
President Gòkè-Paríolá in his investiture speech
The Concert Choir performed during the ceremony under the direction of Dr. Ramona M. Wis, professor of music and Mimi Rolland Professor in the Fine Arts.
Vince DeMaio ’27, president of the Student Governing Association, delivered a message on behalf of the students.
President Gòkè-Paríolá and his wife, Dr. Jennie Smith-Paríolá, enjoying the reception after the investiture.
The president stopped by to thank the Concert Winds before they performed during the investiture ceremony.
All we are, we have found in song: You have drawn this song from us Songs of lives unfolding”
“Flight Song” by Kim André Arnesen specially performed by the Concert Choir
2 3
I am grateful for the trust placed in me to hold this distinctive title, and I’m more inspired than ever to work alongside our outstanding faculty, staff, students, alumni, and community partners to advance our school mission to develop principled leaders through exceptional academic programs and experiential opportunities.”
DR. DAVID GREEN Dean of the School of Business and Entrepreneurship
The College Establishes Endowed Deanship for School of Business and Entrepreneurship
In August, North Central College announced the establishment of the Thomas J. Paleka ’83 and David E. Thomson Deanship in Business and Entrepreneurship. The first of its kind at the College, the endowed deanship was made possible through the generosity of Thomas J. Paleka, a 1983 graduate of North Central and vice president of global total rewards at Gallagher; and David E. Thomson, former president and CEO emeritus of Dixline Corporation.
Dr. David Green, who joined North Central College in July 2024 as dean of the School of Business and Entrepreneurship, is the inaugural recipient of the endowed deanship.
“Deans are the visionary leaders responsible for executing our academic strategies and priorities,” said North Central College President Abiódún GòkèParíolá. “This endowed deanship provides stable, long-term funding that elevates
the prestige of our business school and enables the dean of the school to advance new initiatives and expand opportunities for our students and faculty. I am incredibly grateful to Tom and David for their extraordinary generosity and commitment to North Central College.”
Green said: “I am grateful for the trust placed in me to hold this distinctive title, and I’m more inspired than ever to work alongside our outstanding faculty, staff, students, alumni, and community partners to advance our school mission to develop principled leaders through exceptional academic programs and experiential opportunities. This endowed deanship will strengthen our ability to innovate and deepen our impact for years to come.”
Paleka serves as a member of the North Central College Board of Trustees. He has spent more than two decades in human resources and sales leadership roles at
companies including AT&T, Ameritech and Tellabs, prior to joining Gallagher in 2008. Thomson serves as a member of North Central’s School of Business and Entrepreneurship Advisory Board. In addition to his longtime role at Dixline Corporation, he is a founding partner of Thomson Landwehr, LLC, and served as mayor of his hometown of Galva, Ill.
“David and I are thrilled to be able to contribute back to North Central by establishing an endowed deanship for the School of Business and Entrepreneurship,” said Paleka.
“My college experience at North Central laid the foundation for my career, equipping me with the skills and knowledge to succeed while fostering relationships that continue to inspire and support me to this day. We have confidence that Dr. Green will carry on the mission to do the same for many future students and alumni.”
(Pictured from L to R, standing): During an event on campus in August, Thomas J. Paleka ’83 and David E. Thomson joined President Abiódún Gòkè-Paríolá in bestowing the new endowed deanship upon (seated) Dr. David Green, dean of North Central’s School of Business and Entrepreneurship.
EXCELLENCE
2025 Lincoln Laureate Plans to Combine Medicine and Impactful Research
North Central College biochemistry major Nmesoma Onyejekwe ’26 was named a 2025 student laureate by the Lincoln Academy of Illinois. The award honors outstanding seniors from each of the state’s four-year degreegranting colleges and universities. Student laureates are selected for their leadership, service and excellence in curricular and extra-curricular activities.
Onyejekwe was one of 53 seniors recognized during an award ceremony at the University of Chicago on Oct. 18.
“I am deeply honored and grateful to be selected as a 2025 Lincoln Laureate recipient,” she said. “It came as a pleasant surprise and also as a powerful motivation to keep doing meaningful work.”
HANDS-ON LEARNING
An international student from Nigeria, Onyejekwe has excelled in and out of the classroom. She has spent her summers conducting research at North Central as well as at the Knight Cancer Research Institute at Oregon Health and Science University and at the Stanford Cardiovascular Institute, Stanford University.
On campus Onyejekwe is a Peer Health Educator at Dyson Wellness Center, a Speaking Center Tutor, an International Student Ambassador, and a member of the NCC for Africa Club. She is also founder and president of North Central’s CreateForKids, a student-led service organization that seeks to inspire children in hospitals through art.
Onyejekwe’s dream is to become a physician-scientist, combining clinical care with research to improve patient outcomes. After graduation, she plans to spend a gap year gaining further experience in clinical research settings before attending medical school.
Hot Off the Presses: The Chronicle Gets a Fresh Run in Print
The Chronicle has been North Central’s student-run newspaper since 1873. During the early 2010s, it evolved in format and eventually was available only in digital form. However, this fall semester, a print edition was relaunched, and the format is once again a newspaper appearing on newsstands across campus.
The return to print is an aim to increase the newspaper’s visibility. The initiative was led by faculty advisor David Weissman, senior lecturer in journalism, along with Chronicle student staff, including editors, graphic designers and writers.
“Nothing beats the feeling of holding real newsprint in your hand,” said Weissman. “To be able to put it in the hands of students, faculty and staff stands as a reminder that newspapers can still thrive on college campuses.”
Moving forward, the staff will produce a print edition twice each semester — with hopes of eventually publishing monthly. The editorial focus is to deliver news for both College and Naperville readers.
“I encourage our staff to make sure the content is, at its core, important to the community,” said Brianna Eloiza ’26, editor-in-chief. “We want to make sure our readers can relate to, or care about, the content we produce.”
The staff’s writers comprise a variety of majors, from journalism and English to business and health science. According to Eloiza, the diversity of majors is helpful in connecting with sources across the College and representing diverse perspectives.
“If you are stuck in your own bubble, then you may miss out on interviewing important people,” she said. “So, the diversity of majors is a huge benefit to the staff.”
Without an existing print edition as a foundation, the staff had to recreate the newspaper from scratch, from editorial to design. Seeing newspapers in the hands of readers sparked Cardinal Pride among Chronicle staff.
“We put so much effort into writing, producing, creating, designing — and all of the little things in between,” said Eloiza. “Our team felt as nervous as I did about making a new first run of the print edition, but they achieved so much. I was so proud of them.”
Chronicle staff also continue to publish digital content, which you can view at ncclinked.com.
1861: THE NORTH CENTRAL COLLEGE PODCAST
Episode 7: Brianna Eloiza ’26
Listen in as the Chronicle editor-in-chief gives a behind-the-scenes look at bringing the publication back to print! northcentralcollege.edu/podcast
President’s Report
2024 - 2025 NORTH CENTRAL COLLEGE
DEAR CARDINAL COMMUNITY,
In moments of deep reflection, I often seek inspiration from the thoughts expressed in my mother tongue, Yorùbá.
It is a beautiful and poetic language common in southwestern Nigeria, where I was born and raised. Spoken by more than 50 million people mostly in southwestern Nigeria and neighboring countries as well as others in the African Diaspora, Yorùbá is rich in òwe — or proverbs — that are deeply philosophical, metaphorical, and vital to the language.
The Yorùbá say, “Òwe l’esin oro. Toro ba so nu, owe la fi n wa.” The translation is: “Proverbs are the horses of thought. When the means of expressing our thought escapes us, it is proverbs that we send to retrieve them.”
As my campus colleagues are keenly aware, I often reach for a Yorùbá proverb at key moments. One has been on my mind lately: “Àkókò kì í dúró de enikéni.” It essentially translates to “Time waits for no one.” It is a profound reminder that each day affords our campus the distinct honor and opportunity to help transform the lives of our students.
When my presidency began in July 2024, we embarked on a journey to develop NCForward, our strategic vision plan built on the foundation of five pillars. The College’s senior leadership team has since been leading their respective areas in alignment with our NCForward plan.
I am excited to report on our progress:
PILLAR 1: INSTITUTIONAL IDENTITY
As we face the current higher education headwinds, we have embarked on a strategic identity and market positioning project to more clearly communicate the College’s value proposition and maintain our status as a premier private college of destination.
• One defining characteristic is our high-quality undergraduate programs across a broad array of disciplines, all grounded in the liberal arts — plus a distinctive suite of graduate programs, including masters and doctoral programs in healthcare.
• Another defining characteristic is our hometown of Naperville, a regional and national destination that affords students with myriad opportunities not found at other institutions. With the growth of our graduate programs,
North Central has evolved into a university: Naperville’s university. Moving forward, we will be more intentional in highlighting this point of distinction to future students and their families.
PILLAR 2: STUDENT EXPERIENCE AND ENGAGEMENT
In July 2025, we welcomed Dr. Vicki Williams, vice president for student life and dean of students, to the senior leadership team. She is working with colleagues across campus to create a comprehensive, high-quality experience that focuses on student success, fosters well-being, and extends the impact of student learning beyond the classroom. Already this fall semester, students experienced a greater sense of engagement through a variety of activities.
• To elevate student experience, it is critical for us to build a new student commons, including a modern dining facility. This is our top capital priority. It is also essential that we construct a new athletics center along with a synthetic surface competition field for soccer and lacrosse. The need for these facilities will drive our fundraising activities in the months ahead.
• Our dedicated operations team, under the leadership of Mike Hudson, vice president for operations, keeps campus looking great all year round. In addition, Mike and his team will oversee the design and construction of the new student commons once the necessary funds are secured.
• North Central’s student-athlete experience is a key draw for many Cardinals. Jim Miller, senior director of athletics, continues to do an incredible job overseeing 26 intercollegiate athletic programs. During the 2024-25 seasons, Cardinal Athletics secured 14 team conference championships and two national championships — in triathlon and football. And just weeks ago, triathlon secured an unprecedented fourth consecutive national team title. Meanwhile, as I write this message, our football team is once again headed into the NCAA post-season.
PILLAR 3: FINANCIAL AND OPERATIONAL SUSTAINABILITY
We continue to develop and implement a sustainable business model to deliver a high-quality, affordable education.
• We concluded the 2024-2025 fiscal year by achieving a balanced operating budget and netting a budget surplus, thanks to the leadership of Maryellen Skerik, vice president for finance. Read more about the College’s healthy financial position on page 11.
• We secured the College’s largest-ever incoming class this fall, and the influx of new students pushed total enrollment to an all-time high in our 164-year history, under the direction of Dr. Agnieszka Hanni, vice president for enrollment management and marketing. In building this year’s record class, our admissions team focused on the College’s academic quality and affordability profile. See enrollment and other key figures on page 10.
• At our Commencement ceremony in May, we conferred 16 different degrees upon our graduates. Among them were the College’s first-ever doctoral students: the inaugural cohort from our Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program, and the first graduates from our Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program. Later that month, both programs received full national accreditation — a significant achievement that opens a world of opportunities for our students and graduates.
I so enjoyed the fedora-themed commemorative sticker that staff designed for my investiture! I’m very grateful for your good wishes upon my installation as North Central’s 12th president.
I invite you to follow me on Instagram as I continue leading the College:
nccpresidentgp
Because effective communication underpins each of our pillars, I am grateful to our Office of Institutional Communication team. Under the leadership of Jim Godo, vice president for communication and external affairs, they developed and executed my presidential communication plan and are amplifying NCForward and the North Central story with our internal and external audiences. This publication you are reading is just one example of that work.
• We have also developed and secured approval for a new pre-licensure nursing program: a Master’s Entry into Nursing Program (MENP). The master’s program and a direct undergraduate articulation program will start in fall 2026. The continued growth of our graduate-level healthcare programs is a credit to our academic leadership team led by Dr. Kristin Geraty, provost and vice president for academic affairs.
• We concluded the fiscal year with $7.26 million in total fundraising, and in July 2025, we welcomed Rachel Gamarra, vice president for institutional advancement, to the senior leadership team. She is building a fundraising operation to support our capital, scholarship and student persistence goals.
PILLAR 4: COMMUNITY VALUES
We continue to develop and implement strategies to ensure that we are working in alignment with the College’s core values, which underpin how we at the College engage with one another and others as a community committed to guiding principles that are rooted in our founding mission.
PILLAR 5: PEOPLE: FACULTY AND STAFF EXPERIENCE
It is critical that we continue to recruit, retain and support highquality faculty and staff. Collectively, they enable us to support students and deliver on our mission and value proposition.
Time waits for no one. I see these words as both a blessing and a guiding principle for my presidency. NCForward is ambitious. The students, faculty, staff, alumni, trustees, parents, neighbors and community members I speak with each day have embraced the vision. There is a unified sense of purpose and pride in all that North Central College is — and all that it can be. We have made great strides. Yet, much remains for us to achieve this institution’s true greatness.
In so many ways, we are all the beneficiaries of those who came before us. It is now our turn to twist time in the favor of our students. Let’s continue moving NCForward — together!
Warmest regards,
ABIÓDÚN “G-P” GÒKÈ-PARÍOLÁ President
STUDENT POPULATION*
DIVERSE ACADEMIC PROGRAMS
• 90+ undergraduate majors
• 69 undergraduate minors
• 3 undergraduate concentrations
• 10 interdisciplinary programs
• 24 graduate degree programs
• 9 graduate certificates/endorsement programs
RANKINGS & AWARDS
• U.S. News & World Report
» 2026 Best Regional Universities (Midwest) #20
» 2026 Best Value - Regional Universities (Midwest) #27
» 2026 Top Performers on Social Mobility - Regional Universities (Midwest) #35
» 2026 Best Colleges for VeteransRegional Universities (Midwest) #9
• The Princeton Review
» 2026 Best Colleges: Midwest
» 2025 Green Schools
• Money.com
» 2025 Best Colleges in America
• Arbor Day Foundation
» 2024 Recognized Tree Campus
• Phi Theta Kappa
» 2025 Transfer Honor Roll
• Naperville
» #1 Best City to Live in America (Niche.com, 2025)
» #3 Largest City in Illinois
UNDERGRADUATE TUITION & FEES
2025-2026 Academic Year
$46,810 Tuition (annual, full-time)
$13,740 ............. Housing and Food**
$530 ...................... Student Fees
$25,500 minimum annual academic merit scholarship
100% of students receive some form of financial aid
CLASS OF 2025 PROFILE
800 Degree Recipients
• 593 bachelor’s degree recipients
• 175 master’s degree recipients
• 32 doctoral degree recipients
**Reflects cost of the all-access meal plan and living in a double in Rall, Seager or Geiger residence hall, or a triple in Kimmel.
VICE PRESIDENT FOR FINANCE REPORT
The fiscal year ending June 30, 2025, reflected stable financial performance for North Central College. Operating revenues totaled $90.1 million, driven by $56.3 million in net tuition and fees, while operating expenses were $91.0 million, consistent with prior-year levels. The modest operating deficit was offset by strong investment performance.
Favorable markets generated $15.8 million in realized and unrealized investment gains, contributing to an overall increase of $8.2 million in net assets for the year.
The College’s financial position remains strong, with total assets of $377.2 million, strengthened by higher cash reserves and an investment portfolio that grew to $150.4 million. Total liabilities declined to $83.8 million, driven by reduced payables and continued amortization of long-term debt.
Net assets rose to $293.4 million, including $111.0 million in donor-restricted resources, reflecting ongoing donor support and endowment growth.
North Central College remains well-positioned for the future through prudent financial management, strategic investment oversight, and disciplined resource allocation.
MARYELLEN SKERIK Vice President for Finance
RECORD-SETTING DAY OF GIVING
On Feb. 20, 2025, the Cardinal Family raised a record $807,000 shattering the goal to raise $500,000 on the 10th annual Day of Giving.
The funds raised will benefit our talented students and dedicated faculty — including gifts to the College’s academic departments, athletics programs, fine and performing arts programs, student scholarships, and the North Central College Fund.
See audited financial statements here.
Every gift will matter on our 11th Annual Day of Giving
At the Center of All We Do
OUR STUDENTS
In January 2025, members of the Cardinal marching band, cheer and dance teams, and journalists from WONC and The Chronicle (below) traveled to Houston to be part of the football team’s trip to the Stagg Bowl.
The Whispers of Spring Soiree (below) marked the return of a spring “formal” for students.
In June, Jack Nadolny ’26, an international business and Japanese double major, went on a two-day “global field trip” as part of the Molex Scholars Program — touring Molex facilities in Japan and meeting with employees, including Steve Drysdale ’99, vice president and general manager of the Micro Solutions Business Unit at Molex in Tokyo.
Dr. Jeff Jankowski, professor of chemistry (above right), mentored Emily Beger ’26 (above left) on a research project sponsored by Fehr Solutions — an example of how the College supports industry partners while providing hands-on experience for students. Kathleen Lathrop’08 (above middle) is a chemist at Fehr Solutions.
During the 2024-25 academic year, more than 1,200 students were invited to enjoy dinner and backyard fun at the President’s House.
At Commencement in May, the class of 2025 included the first cohorts to earn the following degrees at North Central: Doctor of Physical Therapy; Master of Science in Nursing; and Master of Occupational Therapy (bridge program).
1942 - 2025
For nearly six decades, Coach Al Carius was an iconic figure on the campus of North Central College and one of the most successful collegiate coaches in the country, regardless of sport or division.
His influence on countless studentathletes, fellow coaches, and colleagues is immeasurable. A beloved coach, mentor, husband, father, grandfather, and friend, Al was grounded in the simple yet meaningful values that shaped him since his days as a young boy growing up in the small town of Morton, Ill. He lived a life rooted in faith, driven by love, and dedicated to uplifting others.
He believed leadership could be summed up in one word: influence. Every day, he chose to lead by example — motivating those around him through kindness, integrity, and love.
Al was a true believer in the NCAA Division III student-athlete experience and how athletics can help young men
and women develop the habits and skills needed to be “winners in life.” His “Run for Fun and Personal Bests” coaching philosophy was developed as an expression of this belief and became a framework for his athletes to strive for success and fulfillment beyond the accumulation of trophies and other external accolades.
At his core, Al was a teacher, and he viewed every experience as a teachable one. He turned ordinary places – locker rooms, team buses and the halls of Merner Field House –into his classrooms, where he never missed an opportunity to offer a kind word, a kernel of his wisdom, and loving support to those in his orbit.
1942
Born and then raised in Morton, Ill.
1960
Won the Illinois state title in the mile as a runner at Morton High School.
1964
Graduated from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, where he was a decorated cross country and track & field athlete.
1966
Arrived at North Central to coach men’s cross country and track & field.
1968
Won the program’s first CCIW men’s cross country championship.
1971 - 1977
Served first stint as North Central’s director of athletics.
1975
Won the program’s first NCAA Division III men’s cross country national championship.
1980 - 1993
Served second stint as director of athletics.
1983
Hired Frank Gramarosso to serve as assistant men’s cross country and track & field coach.
1989
Won the program’s first NCAA Division III men’s indoor and outdoor track & field national championships.
1993
Set the record for lowest point total –32 points – at the NCAA Division III men’s cross country championship.
2000
Named “Coach of the Century” by his coaching peers.
2004
2009
Inducted as part of the inaugural North Central College Athletics Hall of Fame class.
2006
Recognized as an honorary North Central alumnus.
2008
USTFCCCA established the Al Carius Program of the Year Award, given annually to the NCAA Division III men’s program with the best average team finish across the cross country, indoor, and outdoor track & field national championships.
2009 - 2010
Won the “triple crown” – placing first at the NCAA Division III men’s cross country, indoor, and outdoor track & field national championships.
Honored with the naming of the Al B. Carius Track in the College’s Hal & Benna Wilde Res/Rec Center.
2013
Inducted into the Chicagoland Sports Hall of Fame.
2016
Established the largest winning margin – 144 points – at the NCAA Division III men’s cross country championship.
2020
Retired from full-time coaching
2021
Published his book, “Run for Fun and Personal Bests,” named for his wellknown coaching philosophy.
In the days and weeks following Al’s passing on Sept. 9, 2025, stories and tributes were shared in many different contexts across campus, social media, and in media outlets nationwide.
“There was never a doubt that Al was competitive and wanted us to succeed, but his mission went deeper than accumulating individual acclaim and team trophies. In my last year or two, more than any of the others, I’d hear Al talk about love. He would tell us that love is the most powerful word in the English language. That word alone was the most accurate way to encapsulate his lifelong journey to get people to see the value in one another, to lift each other up through teamwork, and to unequivocally understand that feeling was the ultimate driver to a life well-lived.”
RYAN ROOT ’14, ALL-AMERICAN
Head Cross Country Coach, Fairview High School, Boulder, Colo.
(Originally published on D3 Glory Days)
“I didn’t think I needed a father figure, but Al was so much of a father anyway that he actually named me. When he asked me freshman year if I preferred to be called Jim or James, I said, ‘Jims,’ without missing a beat. Without missing a beat himself, he said, ‘Jims it is!’ To this day hundreds of people call me Jims, including my own parents who named me! It is literally impossible for one person to make so many people feel like they are his most special athlete, but Al did this. He normalized love, and he shared his love with all those who were infinitely lucky to have known him.”
JIM “JIMS” DICKERSON ’95, 6X ALL-AMERICAN
Head Boys Cross Country Coach; Guidance Counselor Hinsdale South High School, Hinsdale, Ill. (via Facebook)
“I’d just lost the indoor CCIW 5k to a NCC guy, and who else but Al was by my side seconds later putting his arm around my shoulders telling me, ‘Keep your head up, that was one of the gutsiest races I’ve ever seen.’ It was an honor to be his colleague as a coach and to witness his legacy. My heart goes out to the NCC family. Run for fun and personal bests, always.”
JAMES AKITA
Head Cross Country Coach
University of Wisconsin-Platteville (via Facebook)
“Iwas extremely fortunate to have Coach Al as my professor for multiple classes during my undergrad years at North Central, and blessed to have had him as a colleague, mentor, and friend as well later on. The impact he had on my life as a coach and person is immeasurable. The entire foundation of our men's and women’s wrestling programs was built on the principles and values that I learned from Coach Al. I think about him every day, and as a coach, being able to lean on ‘What would Al do here?’ provides peace and comfort in knowing every time that your decision is the right one.”
JOE NORTON ’10/M’13
Head Women’s Wrestling Coach; Associate Men’s Wrestling Coach, North Central College
“Al Carius was a father figure to so many of us. His influence reached far beyond running, shaping not only our journeys as athletes, but also the people we became. To say he will be missed hardly captures the depth of the loss. Like my teammates, I feel profoundly grateful to have had him in my life. His legacy is measured not only by the countless NCAA titles, but in the love, wisdom and strength he shared with all of us. Al was an extraordinary coach, but an even greater person.”
SEAN CARLSON ’10, ALL-AMERICAN
Director, Men’s and Women’s Cross Country; Track & Field University of Colorado (via Instagram)
“North Central College was my dad’s second home – his safe haven, his church. He considered every one of you part of his family and truly believed that we are all a product of every person we encounter. I grew up right here, and I loved watching my dad in his element – coaching, mentoring and preparing college students for the real world. His influence on his athletes and everyone around him is what inspired me to become a teacher. He’s an inspiration to us all.”
BRENT CARIUS
Son of Al and Pam Carius
Teacher, River Woods Elementary School
Remarks during Celebration of Life
“W orking alongside Al for nearly three decades was one of the great gifts of my professional life. He brought joy, laughter and perspective into every day and influenced how I show up for work.”
JIM MILLER ’86
Senior Director of Athletics, North Central College
Remarks during Celebration of Life
“Al taught us about core ethical values that built character. His standards of family, church, education, and love built winners in life.”
FRANK GRAMAROSSO
Former Men’s Cross Country and Track & Field Coach
Remarks during Celebration of Life
“Al was absolutely on fire and passionate about the team aspect of sport. He couldn’t get enough of ‘team.’ He didn’t care if it was a picture of a few of his athletes running stride-by-stride in a big race, or him being in the ‘mosh pit’ with all the fans and athletes celebrating a victory together. He just couldn’t get enough of it. He had an unquenchable appetite for team experiences. He wanted us to have that passion as well because he really, truly wanted each of us to experience what it was like, in his words, to be in the ‘knowing’ at one time in our lives. I think we can safely say he achieved that for all of us.”
BOB DUNPHEY ’85, 6X ALL-AMERICAN
Retired Healthcare Business Leader
Remarks during Celebration of Life
“The last time I heard from Al, he sent me a text and it ended with, ‘I love you, Hal.’ I’m 80 years old. I can’t remember any man who wasn’t a family member who ever said, ‘I love you, Hal.’ I thought about it, and I thought about the key to what made Al so extraordinary, which is, he didn’t just love me, he loved all of you, he loved everyone who ran for him, he loved North Central College, he loved life. He gave us his love and for that I will always be very, very grateful.”
DR. HAROLD R. WILDE (H)’15
President Emeritus, North Central College
Remarks during Celebration of Life
“N
orth Central College will not be the same without Al Carius – yet, North Central College is better because of him. During his nearly six decades here, Al’s influence was so strong — and the people who were inspired by him so many — that he will always be part of who we are.”
ABIÓDÚN GÒKÈ-PARÍOLÁ
President, North Central College
Remarks during Celebration of Life
“Ilearned so much from watching how he treated students and colleagues—with integrity, kindness, and genuine care. A proud first-gen graduate himself, Al faithfully showed up for our first-gen students from the start of Cardinal First — coaching them not about running, but about life, resilience, and pride in their first-gen identity. He impacted hundreds of students — and me — through his humility, warmth and belief in what’s possible.”
JULIE CARBALLO
Assistant Dean of Students for First-Generation and Military-Affiliated Initiatives, North Central College
“W ords can’t describe the impact Al had on my life and the lives of so many like me throughout the years. He taught us how to be better athletes and teammates, but along the way he also taught us how to be better humans. Hardly a day goes by that I don’t think back to something Al said, a story he told, an experience we shared. And of all those, one thing that I know he was right about is that in the end, the times and places will fade and the trophies will gather dust, it’s the people that you meet and the experiences that you had along the way that matter.”
TIM MCCOSKEY ’01, 4X INDIVIDUAL NATIONAL CHAMPION Teacher, Neuqua Valley High School, Naperville, Ill. (via Facebook)
“A l has been such a dominant part in all of our lives – in many different ways and many similar ways. He is a large part of who we were, who we are, and who we are going to become.”
KEN POPEJOY
Former Assistant Coach Judge, 18th Judicial Court of Illinois Remarks during Celebration of Life
FIND MORE ONLINE:
Celebration of Life –video of ceremony
1861: The North Central College Podcast episode (recorded June 2, 2025)
“Run for Fun and Personal Bests: An Enduring Legacy” documentary (2022)
SAYING GOODBYE
“The Last Lecture” (recorded May 13, 2013)
On Sunday, Sept. 21, 2025, the North Central College community gathered in Gregory Arena for a Celebration of Life to honor Coach Al Carius. The occasion included a City of Naperville proclamation as well as reflections from family, friends, College leadership, former studentathletes, and coaches. Afterward, guests gathered for a ceremonial lap around the Jay and Dot Buikema Track in Benedetti–Wehrli Stadium.
Clockwise from top left: Al’s son Brent Carius and Jim Miller ’86; the Carius family; former assistant coach Ken Popejoy; Celebration of Life speakers with Al’s grandson, Jackson Carius ’29 (white t-shirt); Jim DiDomenico ’86 performed Al’s favorite song, “Bob Dylan’s Dream.”
You need your teammates in life to be able to navigate through the good times and the challenging times. ‘Team’ is not just a word. It’s a deep down feeling of commitment to one another. Thank you to each and every one of you, because you can’t get to where you are – nobody can –without everybody who has been a part of your life. Thank you for everything you’ve done for me, for the program, and for each other. I love you.”
AL CARIUS speaking to friends and alumni in one of his final podcast recordings.
THE LEGACY CONTINUES
COACHING IMPACT
FORMER CARDINALS COACH “RUN FOR FUN AND PERSONAL BESTS” FAR AND WIDE
Al Carius often spoke of the various mentors and coaches – from the University of Chicago Track Club’s Ted Haydon to UCLA basketball coach John Wooden – who inspired him and helped hone his “Run for Fun and Personal Bests” coaching philosophy.
That philosophy, rooted in Haydon’s “Run for Fun” ethos, was never meant to be one-size-fits-all. Carius’s door was always open to coaches – alums and non-alums alike – willing to lend their expertise to the North Central cross country and track & field programs.
Like any great coach, the branches of the Carius coaching “family tree” extend far and wide. Nothing gave Carius and his coaching partner Frank Gramarosso more pride than when one of their protégés would take up coaching – whether as a hobby or a career – at levels ranging from middle school, to high school, to
STUDENT IMPACT
competitor schools within NCAA Division III, to those who successfully adapted “Run for Fun and Personal Bests” at the NCAA DivisionI and even Olympic levels.
Today, Carius’s legacy lives on through the coaches at places like Naperville’s Kennedy Junior High, Naperville North High School, St. Charles East High School, Wheaton Warrenville South High School, Illinois Wesleyan University, Washington University in St. Louis, University of Colorado, University of Houston, and many places in between.
Former Cardinal athletes have taken the coaching lessons they learned at North Central from Al Carius and Frank Gramarosso to build successul programs at institutions across the country.
Countless athletes across the country who are learning to become “winners in life” from lessons passed down by a man they never even met. That’s influence.
THE AL CARIUS & FRANK GRAMAROSSO ENDOWED SCHOLARSHIP
One of the many ways legendary North Central College coach Al Carius’ legacy continues to impact lives is through the Al Carius and Frank Gramarosso Endowed Scholarship. On Aug. 13, 2025, Carius
Gramarosso.
joined longtime friend and coaching colleague Frank Gramarosso to present the second annual scholarship award to Lily Grace Anderson ’26, a psychology major who is minoring in nutrition.
Established by alumni and friends of the College, the scholarship honors the duo’s decades-long commitment to education, wellness and personal growth. It supports undergraduate and graduate students pursuing careers in education, coaching, or health and wellness — fields that reflect the central values of both coaches’ leadership.
Anderson is an aspiring pediatric dietitian who plans to pursue graduate studies in nutrition or a combined program that includes a dietetic internship. In her scholarship application, she shared her passion for helping children, particularly
(Pictured L to R): Jeff Stiles ’99 (coach at Washington University in St. Louis); Greg Huffaker ’99 (coach at Illinois Wesleyan University); Mahesh Narayanan ’97/M’05 (coach at North Central College); David Thompson ’99 (coach at DePaul University)
those with autism and feeding challenges. She is also interested in research that focuses on the gut microbiome and connections to mental and physical health.
Anderson is a member of the cross country and track & field teams, and she is active in the nutrition club. She also volunteers with local food banks and has organized a petsupply drive for a local humane society.
Gramarosso reflected on presenting the scholarship a final time with Carius: “I am humbled to have my name alongside Al’s on this scholarship and to see how alumni and friends have helped it grow,” he said.
“It’s gratifying to know the endowment is supporting students like Lily who embody the character and philosophy that Al and I worked to instill — building winners in life.”
Lily Grace Anderson ’26 with Carius and
2025 HOMECOMING
A WEEKEND TO REMEMBER
Homecoming 2025 felt extra special. Maybe it was the perfect weather — with the sun shining and the skies blue. Perhaps it was the full roster of events, including a ceremony honoring a beloved past president of the College. Or it could have been the football team’s 45-0 victory in the “Battle of the Little Brass Bell” against Wheaton College, followed by fireworks.
Whatever the reason, you could see Cardinals everywhere across campus, everyone decked out in red. Not only were alumni celebrating Homecoming; students and loved ones were enjoying Family Weekend — and faculty, staff and friends joined in the fun.
OUTSTANDING ALUMNI AWARDS
Thursday, October 2
The 2025 honorees are pictured left to right:
Dr. Kathy Guy ’98 Guthrie Outstanding Alumni Award
Dr. Dawn Pleas ’90 Outstanding Alumni Award
Dr. Michael Earing ’93 Outstanding Alumni Award
Alyssa Rabulinski ’11 Alumni Recognition Award
Carlos Barba ’90 Cardinal Pride Award
Carol Vanderwalker ’74 Michalak
accepting for Dennis “Denny” Michalak ’74 Cardinal Pride Award (posthumously)
MOON ROOM DEDICATION
Friday, October 3
Honoring Rev. Don P. Moon
North Central students, faculty, staff and Shimer alumni gathered to dedicate the Moon Room in honor of former Shimer President Rev. Don P. Moon who passed away earlier this year. The Moon Room is located in the 5 S. Loomis St. house.
WATCH THE MOVING SPEECHES
It was a wonderful evening celebrating the impact of a North Central College education!
Mike Soenke ’86 Outstanding Alumni Award
Michael Moser ’70 Wall of Witness
Walter Johnson ’80 Outstanding Alumni Award
50-YEAR CLUB DINNER & INDUCTION
Friday, October 3
Congratulations to the Class of 1975!
Members of the North Central College Class of 1975 attended their golden reunion and were officially welcomed as members of the College’s 50-Year Club.
ATHLETIC HALL OF FAME INDUCTEES
Saturday, October 4
Steve Hoeft ’73 Basketball
Denise Kunert ’93 Jacobsen Volleyball
Cathy Kandron ’95 Witte accepting for Jim Witte ’98 Football (posthumously)
Nathan Fitzenreider ’12 Wrestling
Josh Winder ’13 Track & Field
Elizabeth Composto ’15 Schweitzer Track & Field
Jeff Thorne Football Coach
RELIVE THE CEREMONY
Watch as inductees reflect on their athletic careers as North Central College student-athletes.
1981 Men’s Cross Country Team
1982 Men’s Cross Country Team
Honoring North Central’s Ninth President
HAL & BENNA WILDE RES/REC CENTER DEDICATED DURING HOMECOMING
In its 164-year history, North Central College has had only 12 presidents. During Homecoming Weekend, the College hosted a special event to honor its ninth president, Dr. Harold R. “Hal” Wilde (H)’15, and his wife Benna.
On Oct. 4, North Central alumni, students, faculty, staff, and members of the Wilde family gathered to dedicate the Hal and Benna Wilde Res/Rec Center. The newly renamed building was constructed and completed in 2009, during Wilde’s presidency. His nearly 22-year tenure — from March 1991 to December 2012 — is the second-longest in the institution’s history, behind only Edward Everett Rall, who served for 30 years (1916-1946).
“North Central College would not be the institution it is today without Hal’s visionary leadership,” said President Abiódún Gòkè-Paríolá. “This dedication
marks a fitting tribute to a president who transformed our campus and our place in the higher education landscape.”
During the dedication ceremony, several speakers talked about Wilde’s legacy as president. Among them was Lisa Pettaway ’94/M ’00, senior philanthropy officer at North Central, who was both a student and a colleague during Wilde’s presidency.
“Hal is a person who cares about people, and a person who cares so much about North Central College,” Pettaway said.
“I cannot think of a more fitting tribute to Hal and Benna to commemorate the remarkable legacy they have left throughout the decades past, and for the future to come, than the naming of the Hal and Benna Wilde Res/Rec Center.”
THE WILDE PRESIDENCY
• Full-time undergraduate student enrollment doubled from 1,250 to 2,500 students.
• The College’s endowment grew from less than $10 million to $95 million.
• Funding was secured for 13 endowed professorships across various disciplines, enabling the College to continue to attract and retain highquality faculty.
• The College’s physical footprint grew from 500,000 to one million square feet; 15 major construction projects included the total renovation of Old Main and the addition of Wentz Concert Hall and Fine Arts Center and Benedetti-Wehrli Stadium.
VIEW THE FULL DEDICATION CEREMONY
MAKING AMAZING THINGS HAPPEN IS “THE CARDINAL WAY”
A reflection from President Emeritus Hal Wilde (H)’15, beginning with an excerpt from his remarks at the dedication on Oct. 4, 2025.
“So many to thank, so little time. Benna and I are humbled, and deeply grateful, for this honor — deeply grateful to President Abiódún Gòkè-Paríolá and the board of trustees, the hundreds of faculty and staff, and thousands of students and alumni who made our 22 years on the hill overlooking this site — over half our married life — so full of never to be forgotten moments, so many memories, so much joy and love. Rightly, all of these people should have their names on this building. They did the heavy lifting. Putting a president’s name above the title should be seen as a shorthand for the heavy lifters and their era.”
A most special “heavy lifter” was Coach Al Carius, without whose example and gentle prodding the Residence Hall/ Recreation Center might never have been built. Al was there to inspire me on my first North Central visit 35 falls ago, and whose last text to Benna and me before his death congratulated us for this honor, ending with “I love you.” He set the tone for all our years here.
In 1990, our youngest child was in sixth grade, our oldest a high school senior. Yet to come would be countless swim meets, band concerts and tennis matches; three high school graduations; Benna’s career in Chicago philanthropy; four college and graduate school commencements; two Koten Chapel weddings (and one in Ohio); and six grandkids in California, New York and Wisconsin. The one constant in 35 years of Christmases together: NCC gear under the tree!
As our family evolved, so did the College. In 1991, the priority was financial support, endowed professorships to underwrite academic excellence, and student scholarships. The renovation of Old Main,
our first major project, didn’t come until year seven. But every year after that saw significant construction, including Benedetti-Wehrli Stadium and the Wentz Concert Hall, culminating in the Res/ Rec Center. No structure on campus embodies the College’s Evangelical United Brethren Church heritage better. Waste not, want not. Do more with less. A recreation center for zero dollars, funded by the residence hall surrounding it. Heat and cool it thanks to the good earth (geo-thermal). It’s an amazing building, the product of innovative, costsaving ideas hatched by a collaborative group of cabinet members, trustees, alumni and community supporters the Cardinal Way!
The spirit and vision that built Res/Rec have continued in the 13 years since Benna and I “graduated” from NCC. As a life trustee, I have cheered my successors President Troy Hammond and now President Abiódún “G-P” GòkèParíolá for taking necessary steps to guide the College through immense challenges of changing demographics and an evolving marketplace — and the
... North Central has taken on the stride of a university, but it has maintained the soul of a college.”
pandemic — with exemplary new programs in engineering and health sciences, and wonderful new facilities to support them.
There is an old mantra for college CEOs: presidents come and go, what matters is the character of the school that endures. It is that character that makes me so proud to have the Wilde name on the Res/Rec Center. Always growing, always evolving, but never losing sight of what makes it most special.
Now, 35 years after Benna and I arrived on campus, North Central has taken on the stride of a university, but it has maintained the soul of a college. Leadership, ethics and values. It is, and always will be, The School We Love.
Growing up, Wayne Randazzo ’07 dreamed of a career in the big leagues. But rather than on the field, he wanted to be in the booth calling games.
At North Central, Randazzo honed his craft at the student-run radio station, WONC, both as an announcer for Cardinal athletics and host of a weekly sports show. Today, Randazzo is the TV voice for Major League Baseball’s Los Angeles Angels and “Friday Night Baseball” on Apple TV. He joined us for an episode of “1861: The North Central College Podcast.”
1861: How did you get started on your career path after leaving North Central?
Enjoy great stories from across the North Central College campus and the wider Cardinal community, including:
EPISODE 8 — A conversation with triathlon team members
Bethany Smeed’26 and Keeley Mick’28, along with Head Coach Tyler Woodward M ’20, about the program winning its fourth consecutive national title in November. Smeed also captured the 2025 Collegiate Division III Individual National Title, and Mick was the runner-up.
northcentralcollege.edu/podcast Also available on YouTube, Apple Podcasts and Spotify.
WR: I actually got started during my time there. I transferred to North Central and got an internship at WGN Radio. I was able to mix my classes with my internship. During junior year, I got my first job in broadcasting at the Illinois Radio Network as the morning sports anchor. That job started at four in the morning, then I would drive to Naperville and go to class.
1861: There are a lot of sports to cover. Why did you choose baseball?
WR: There was never a choice. I wanted to be in baseball, and I loved broadcasting, so I wanted to merge the two. It’s what I wanted to do my whole life and I’ve never strayed from it. It’s the only place I want to be.
1861: Who did you root for growing up?
WR: I was a huge Cubs fan. I would watch them every day. I never missed a game. I was glued to the TV listening to Harry Caray and Steve Stone.
1861: How did your experience at WONC help you get to where you are now?
WR: The biggest thing was having access to the platform. The radio station was wide open, and you could do what you wanted. John Madormo, station manager at the time, was available and willing to help, but he let the students really run it. North Central had all of these ways for you to get experience – to get on the air and get better – right there at the school.
1861: What advice would you give to students looking to follow in your footsteps?
WR: It’s important for up-and-coming announcers to be on social media – to show your personality and build your following. You have to send your tapes out, get feedback, and network. And you have to make good decisions. You’re going to be faced with different paths. Make the best decision for you and what’s best long term for your goals. LISTEN TO THE FULL INTERVIEW
CLASS NOTES
1967
MARTI HEALY recently published her 10th book and fourth novel, “Are You Dead Yet?” The story follows three sisters as they navigate family, identity and forgiveness. Healy, an author and columnist based in Aiken, S.C., earned a bachelor’s in English literature at North Central. 1
NANCY ZEUMER KRANPITZ competed in the women’s 80-84 age group at the 2025 U.S. Masters Swimming Spring Nationals in San Antonio, Texas, winning first place in the 50yard breaststroke and second in five other individual events. She also earned second place in three mixed 75-plus relays while swimming for Wisconsin Masters, whose team finished second overall among regional clubs. 2
LYNN PRIES , retired North Central College Chaplain, was one of two honorees to receive the Distinguished Alum Award from Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary during the institution’s homecoming on Nov. 5. Rev. Dr. Pries was recognized as someone who embodies “the spirit of servant leadership and commitment to compassion, justice, and professional excellence that is Garrett-Evangelical’s audacious hope for its graduates.”
1969
RAY MCKOSKI wrote the book “David Davis, Abraham Lincoln’s Favorite Judge,” which was recently published by the University of Illinois Press. His biography explores Judge Davis’s essential role in Lincoln’s rise to the presidency and his steadfast commitment to judicial impartiality.
1975
DON LOREN completed the High Bridge Half Marathon in Farmville, Va., for the second time, finishing as the oldest participant and first in his age bracket.
1984
PATRICK GRIFFIN was recently elected to the Merton Community School Board in Merton, Wis. Griffin received nearly 60% of the total votes, and he will serve a three-year term, filling the seat previously held by the board’s vice president.
1990
JIM VANHOOTEGEM was appointed assistant coach at the University of Houston Track & Field program, where he will lead the horizontal jumps. A three-time USTFCCCA National Assistant Coach of the Year and former head coach at Oklahoma, VanHootegem earned a bachelor’s degree in physical education at North Central, where he was a seven-time All-American and twotime national champion.
ALUMNISNAPSHOTS
1 4 3 5 6 2
1993
VALARIE JOHNSON is co-producer of “The Pull Up Podcast Show” with fellow alum Tony Thompson ’90. A recent episode featured 2025 Outstanding Alumni Award recipient Walter Johnson ’80. Known professionally as “Val the Voice,” Valarie Johnson is the founder of Pure Lighthouse Media, LLC. She continues to spotlight members of the Cardinal community through her broadcast and media work.
1996
BARRY SMELTZER was reappointed by Governor Greg Abbott of Texas to the Pediatric AcuteOnset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome Advisory Council. Smeltzer is the owner and primary practitioner at Healing Provisions, a holistic medical clinic in Texas. He is the executive director, faculty member, and former executive board member of the American Academy of Environmental Medicine and an adjunct professor for The UT Health Science Center at San Antonio. After receiving an undergraduate degree in athletic training from North Central, he earned an M.S. in Physician Assistant Studies from Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science.
(Note: “S” before class year indicates Shimer alumni. “M” before class year indicates a master’s degree.)
1997
DAWN VICTOR was named the May 2025 Sunflower Award winner at Springfield Memorial Hospital in Springfield, Ill., where she serves as a board-certified chaplain. The award recognized her compassion and commitment to supporting colleagues and patients through difficult circumstances.
GREG FYKSEN completed the YMCA 100 Mile Swim Club Challenge in just 94 days at the Fry Family YMCA in Naperville. The challenge began in January, asking participants to swim 100 miles before Dec. 31, 2025. Fyksen is the first and only swimmer to accomplish the challenge. An article by Naperville Community Television (NCTV) noted that it was not his first time completing a major swim challenge. Fyksen swam 333 miles in 280 days after cancellation of the Chicago Yacht Club’s Race to Mackinac sailboat race in 2020.
ANGEL JENKINS JAIN recently co-produced the Hudson West Music Festival in Jersey City, N.J. The annual all-day event features workshops, an emerging talent showcase, curated vendors, and performances by Grammynominated and Grammy-winning artists. This marks her eighth year helping produce the festival.
2000
JOHN GREENE was recently appointed chief operating officer for the Rural Development Business Center at the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). Announced as part of a slate of presidential nominations by Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins, Greene brings nearly 50 years of engineering, operations and management experience in the private sector to the role.
2003
MICHELLE RUTKOWSKI is now brand manager at 93.1 WXRT-FM, Chicago’s alternative rock station, where she is responsible for programming and growing on-air personalities’ brands, social media, and the station’s website. She made the move after more than 20 years at FM 102.1 in Milwaukee, most recently as program manager.
2004
JONATHAN FAY is the founder, president and CEO of BreakPoint Marketing, a national agency serving consumer and sports brands. He co-created and scaled the ONE Bar protein company, which was later acquired by The Hershey Company.
EMILY STUBBS was recently appointed principal for Indian Trail Elementary School in Downers Grove, Ill. She comes from Indian Prairie School District 204, where she previously taught first grade and served as coordinator of student services for Gombert Elementary. Stubbs earned a bachelor’s in elementary education at North Central.
2005
JUSTIN BUEHLER received the ICTFL Distinguished Service Award by the Illinois Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages for exceptional contributions to world language education. He is a Spanish teacher at Libertyville School District 70. 3
2006
KENDRA WHITE HYETT was recently appointed to the board of directors for Loaves & Fishes Community Services, which serves families in DuPage, Kane, Kendall, and Will counties with a mission to end hunger and foster selfsufficiency. The organization’s website notes that Hyett brings over a decade of experience in grantmaking, fundraising and board service with a focus on gender equity. 4
KATE GANNON-CULLINAN was recently selected as the executive director for the Department of Housing and Residential Life at Texas State University in San Marcos, Texas. The program houses nearly 10,000 students.
SPENCER HONORED FOR EXCELLENCE
BRAD SPENCER ’04, head coach of North Central College football, was inducted into the Chicagoland Sports Hall of Fame and honored as the recipient of the Ray Meyer Coaching Excellence Award during a ceremony on Oct. 15.
Spencer is the first NCAA Division III coach to earn the honor and just the third Division III coach to be inducted into the Chicagoland Sports Hall of Fame. The late Al Carius, legendary Cardinal men's cross country/track & field coach, was inducted in 2013.
In the role of head coach since 2022, Spencer led North Central to national championships in 2022 and 2024 and a runner-up finish in 2023. His teams have consistently led the nation in both offensive and defensive categories, and Cardinal players have won three consecutive Gagliardi Trophies — the annual award given to the top player in NCAA Division III football.
2007
STEVEN MROCZKOWSKI has joined the law firm Buchalter as shareholder in the litigation and construction practice groups. Based in the firm’s Chicago office, he represents clients across the construction contract chain on both transactional matters and disputes. He also regularly handles litigation in state and federal courts, as well as arbitration and mediation across the country.
2008
MARYBETH CIEPLAK PETERSON is the new principal at Beebe Elementary School in Naperville Community Unit School District 203. Most recently she had been the assistant principal at Maplebrook Elementary in Naperville. A news release from the district noted that Peterson’s appointment was “a homecoming” because she was a student-teacher at Beebe Elementary while she was earning her bachelor’s in elementary education at North Central.
2010
JESSICA GOERKE serves as deputy athletic director, chief operating officer and senior woman administrator at the University of San Diego. She joined the program after several years with UC Santa Barbara.
SARAH KURPIEL received the 2025 Schneider Family Book Award from the American Library Association for her author-illustrated picture book “A Little Like Magic.” She earned a bachelor’s in English literature and French at North Central.
2014
ALYSSA ALLGOOD was recently honored with a place on the Jazz Showcase Wall of Fame in Chicago’s South Loop. A nationally recognized jazz vocalist, composer and educator, she performed a four-night engagement with her
band before Jazz Showcase owner Wayne Segal unveiled her photo alongside legends such as Betty Carter and Sarah Vaughan. Allgood, who earned a bachelor’s degree in jazz studies and organizational communication at North Central, said: “It is an immense honor to have my photo added to the Jazz Showcase Wall of Fame next to some of my musical heroes. It’s very meaningful to be included in the club’s rich legacy, and to be uplifted by Chicago’s vibrant jazz community.” 5
SARAH KURFMAN was promoted to director of product development at Desert Cactus. She develops products for one of the industry’s leading non-apparel licensees representing more than 650 colleges and universities, as well as the NBA, WNBA, NHL and other brands.
2016
JESSICA WELDON SANTEE M ’16 was appointed superintendent of Glenbard Township High School District 87 in Glen Ellyn, Ill. She recently spoke at the Women in Educational Leadership presentation hosted by the AAUW Wheaton-Glen Ellyn Branch and the League of Women Voters of Glen Ellyn. Santee earned a Master of Arts in Higher Education Leadership at North Central.
2017
LILIAN YOOD earned a master’s in social work from Aurora University. She is a program assistant at Trilogy, a nonprofit organization supporting mental health services in the Chicago area.
2018
EDGAR VILLEGAS recently started a new position as head of corporate finance for Key Mortgage, an arm of Baird & Warner. He leads all financial planning and analysis operations for the company.
(Pictured from L to R): Rick Spencer (H)’22, Pat Spencer, Brad Spencer ’04, Dr. Nicolette Michelson ’15 Spencer, Kalah Thorngren ’07 Spencer, and Tyke Spencer ’06.
2019
REESE RICHARDSON was the lead author of a study on scientific fraud published in Science and featured in The Economist. The research gained national attention for its analysis of ethical trends in scientific publishing.
2021
KEVIN BRACEROS is the new assistant coach/ recruiting coordinator for Seattle University women’s volleyball. He will help the program enhance team performance and transition into the West Coast Conference, including working with position groups, overseeing analytics, and leading recruiting efforts. Previously, he served as an assistant coach and recruiting coordinator at Chi City volleyball in Chicago. Braceros competed for three seasons at North Central, earning back-to-back Academic AllConference honors.
ARDEN KURHAYEZ serves on the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences (NATAS) Junior Board and attended this year’s Chicago/Midwest Emmy Awards alongside fellow alum Fredlyn Pierre-Louis ’23. 6
ANTHONY HERNANDEZ is a special education teacher at Suder Montessori Magnet Elementary School in Chicago, having completed a Chicago Public Schools (CPS) Teacher Residency and earned a master’s in special education and teaching from Relay Graduate School of Education.
Office of Alumni & Parent Engagement
Visit the Alumni webpage for event information and registration, opportunities to get involved and ways to support the College we love!
MATTHEW NEALON was recently appointed as an associate in the electrical and computer technologies practice of Marshall, Gerstein & Borun LLP.
2023
SEAN JACOBS is the new head coach of the girls track & field team at Buffalo Grove High School in Buffalo Grove, Ill. At North Central, Jacobs spent his first two years playing football as a linebacker.
FREDLYN PIERRE LOUIS serves on the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences (NATAS) Junior Board and attended this year’s Chicago/Midwest Emmy Awards alongside fellow alum Arden Kurhayez ’21. 6
JAKE REHLING, known professionally as Jacob Alexander, performed as the Narrator in “Side by Side by Sondheim” at Oil Lamp Theater in Glenview, Ill.
2024
NIKOLAI SOROKIN appeared in the production “Alive and Kicking!” at the Moonlight Theatre in St. Charles, Ill.
Either scan the QR code with your mobile device or direct your browser to our webpage.
2025
AMANI JONES has joined the Oklahoma State Cowgirl Wrestling Club as an assistant coach and the Cowboy Regional Training Center as an athlete. At North Central, she was a four-time All-American and two-time National Champion. She also earned bronze medals at both the 2023 U20 World Championships and the 2024 U23 World Championships.
HAILEY POE was named a 2025 NCAA Woman of the Year Top 30 nominee. The award recognizes female student-athletes who have completed their undergraduate studies and distinguished themselves in their community, in athletics and in academics throughout their college careers. The third Top 30 nominee in College history, Poe helped lead the Cardinals to their third straight Division III USA Triathlon national championship, their sixth in program history. She became the first Division III triathlete to capture the individual title in each of her four seasons.
Men’s Cross Country / Track & Field Alumni Picnic
School of Business & Entrepreneurship Alumni Social North Central night at the Kane County Cougars game
Golf Outing - Quarterback Club
Golf Outing - Men’s Cross Country / Track & Field
Golf Outing - Wrestling
Alumni Networking Social in Chicago
WEDDINGS
BIRTHS
NIKKI SWAFFORD ’07 BRAVMAN and Danny Bravman on May 25, 2025, in Chicago. 1
SARAH DUMLER ’18 OSTERLOO and NICHOLAS OSTERLOO ’19/M ’21 on July 5, 2025, in Geneva, Ill. Alumni in the wedding party included KATIE KAFER ’19, LINDSEY HUMMER ’18, SARAH KUBILIUS ’18, TOMMY KOTH ’19/M ’21, JACK BRONEC ’19, CHRIS SACCO ’18 and MICHAEL DIECKMAN ’19 Alumni in attendance included NEIL HUMMER ’15/M ’22, MATT EAKER ’21/M ’23, TAIAH GALLISATH ’20/M ’23, ADAM POKLOP ’18/M ’20, VINCE OLEJNICZAK ’19, REBECCA ARP ’17, HAYDEN HOLOTA ’19, KATE KOTH M ’20, NINA SEVERIN ’20. 2
DIONTE HACKLER ’14 and Janelle Hackler on July 20, 2025, in Stevenson, Wash. Alumni in the wedding party included: DEMARCO TILLMAN ’15, LANDON GAMBLE ’14, JORDAN PATTERSON ’17. 3
NICOLE NOVAK ’20 ZEMBA and JAKE ZEMBA ’19 on Oct. 24, 2024, in Blairsville, Pa. 4
AMANDA PECK ’15 LAUGHLIN and COLIN LAUGHLIN ’15, a daughter, Hallie, on May 3, 2025, weighing 6 lbs., 6 oz., and measuring 19 inches. Hallie was welcomed by her brother, Emmett. 5
SHEA OLEHY ’12 MARSHALL and Toby Marshall, a son, Hudson, on May 15, 2025, weighing 6 lbs., 3.1 oz., and measuring 19 inches. Hudson was welcomed by brother Braxton, 20 months. 6
WHITNEY VAN HISE ’12 SMITH, a son, Ethan, on Feb. 19, 2025, weighing 7 lbs., 1 oz. Alumni relatives include his aunt, ADDISON VAN HISE ’15 CHMIELEWSKI
IN MEMORIAM
Our condolences to the families and friends of those we have lost. To notify us of a passing, please email classnotes@noctrl.edu.
LEROY MIELKE ’54 of Dallas, Texas, on May 24, 2025.
ELIZABETH RIGSBY ’54 of Downers Grove, Ill., on Aug. 18, 2025.
JEAN RADA ’58 MACMILLAN of Santa Barbara, Calif., on May 28, 2025.
PAUL AGNEW ’59 of Westminster, S.C., on Aug. 30, 2025.
DR. JOHN HENDERSON ’60 of Peoria Heights, Ill., on June 25, 2025.
MARTHA ULRICH ’63 NUCKOLS of Hendersonville, Tenn., on Aug. 11, 2025.
BARBARA CHAPMAN ’64 HOLTON of Nashville, Tenn., on Jan. 20, 2025.
THOMAS GARD ’65 of Evergreen, Colo., on June 11, 2025.
RON LEMKE ’65 of Rockford, Ill., on March 1, 2025.
CHARLOTTE ROEDERER ’65 of Jamestown, N.Y., on Sept. 12, 2025.
PAUL FREEDLUND ’66 of Knoxville, Tenn., on June 14, 2025.
DONALD SWIATEK ’71 of Western Springs, Ill., on Aug. 13, 2025.
DR. MARTIN FABER ’72 of Princeton, Ill., on April 24, 2025.
JOHN LAGODNEY ’72 of Naperville, on Aug. 6, 2025. Surviving family members include alumni Julie Rowles ’72 Lagodney, Jessica Lagodney ’10 and Jean Lagodney ’78 Javenkoski.
WAYNE KAKOVSKY ’74 of Lombard, Ill., on Oct. 3, 2023.
GWENDOLYN FERGUSON ’78 MURPHY of Canton, Maine, on Feb. 14, 2025.
RUSSELL KIECKHAFER ’84 of Wheaton, Ill., on June 8, 2025.
REMEMBERING JEFFREY J. OESTERLE ’76
Longtime College trustee and supporter Jeffrey J. Oesterle died on August 26, 2025. After graduating from North Central in 1976 with a degree in biology, he served as a telephone company executive for more than a decade. In 1987, he became a property manager and developer.
Alongside his professional pursuits, Oesterle lived a life of service to his community. A proud
North Central alum, he served as president of the College’s Alumni Association soon after graduation, and joined the Board of Trustees in 1995, where he served for 30 years. He received the College’s Outstanding Alumni Award in 1995 and is a past recipient of the College’s Gael D. Swing Award for Meritorious Service, which recognizes extraordinary contributions to the life of the College.
Oesterle was dedicated to his Northwest Indiana community, taking on leadership roles for various civic organizations, including the Hammond Rotary Club, the Hammond YMCA, the Hammond Jaycees, the Hammond Parks
SCOTT NEMZEK ’84 of Bloomington, Minn., on July 20, 2025.
MIKE NEWMAN ’84 of Parma, Ohio, on Sept. 6, 2025.
MARY ANN ROPER M’96 of Arlington Heights, Ill., on Oct. 19, 2025.
ROSALYNN LEWIS ’97 of Phoenix, Ariz., on June 19, 2025.
JENNIFER STADER ’97 SAVINI of Aurora, Ill., on July 25, 2025.
BENJAMIN YACKLEY ’99 of Naperville, on Aug. 11, 2025.
BRIAN SUMMERS ’00 of Germantown, Tenn., on May 21, 2025.
SAMIR SONI BHALA M’16 of Chicago, on Oct. 5, 2025.
Foundation, and the Lake County Indiana Court House Foundation. In 2004, he received the Hammond YMCA’s Lifetime of Service Award.
The Oesterle family name is synonymous with North Central College. In 1983, the College’s Oesterle Library was named in honor of Jeff’s parents, Clare and Lucy Oesterle, for their leadership and philanthropic support. Clare, a member of the Class of 1939, joined the College’s Board of Trustees in 1974.
Oesterle is survived by his wife Teri (Lindley) Oesterle, and their daughters Cat, Lauren and Gail ’14.
SHIMER STUDENTS AND FACULTY JOURNEY TO MOUNT CARROLL
Avan load of North Central students and faculty traveled to Mount Carroll, Ill., on Nov. 12 for a ribboncutting ceremony to open Shimer Square, a new mixed-use community developed on the former Shimer College campus.
Shimer Square includes apartments, a childcare center, and plans for a microbrewery and mobile coffee shop in buildings where Shimer College students once lived and learned. Spearheaded by the Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA) and the Illinois Economic Growth Cooperation, Shimer Square is intended to bring new affordable housing, jobs and economic vitality to the area.
“This campus holds a profound history, and today it opens a new chapter, one filled with opportunity and hope,” said Kristin Faust, IHDA executive director, according to a press release about the grand opening.
Founded in 1853, Shimer College moved from Mount Carroll in 1978 — first to Waukegan, Ill., and then to Chicago, before North Central acquired Shimer College’s Shimer Great Books program in 2017.
Dr. Stuart Patterson, chair of the Shimer Great Books School at North Central College, said the journey to Mount Carroll “helped strengthen the students’ sense
It was heartwarming to ... know that not only is the educational aspect of Shimer still alive today — but the strong sense of community and traits that make Shimerians distinct and quirky is something we all share despite the generational gap.”
MEGAN TAI ’27
Shimer Great Books major
that they’ve joined a storied tradition of learning in, and through, community.
Shimer has long been a moveable feast of ideas, so it’s important to remember our origins, which are now being so beautifully restored.”
Megan Tai ’27, a Shimer Great Books major, was one of eight students who made the trip. The North Central delegation attended the ribbon-cutting and met Shimer College alumni Ed Juracek S’70, Alan Rosenberg S’72, John Montes S’75, April Stosur S’77, and Martin Manning S’78. The group enjoyed lunch at Charlie’s II, an establishment that once was called “Poffy’s” — a popular local hangout where Shimer students would gather.
Tai said, “It was heartwarming to listen to the downtown business owners, chat with Shimer alumni, and know that
not only is the educational aspect of Shimer still alive today — but the strong sense of community and traits that make Shimerians distinct and quirky is something we all share despite the generational gap.”
Tai noted how the group passed the time during the drive to Mount Carroll: “We entertained ourselves by reading Shakespearean insults,” she said. “All I can say is that it was a very Shimerian thing to do.”
SHIMER ALUMNI: Stay in Touch!
Email us at shimeralumnigroup@gmail.com for news and updates.
Pictured from left: April Stosur S’77, Lulu Lowe ’27, Jack Spatara ’26, Megan Tai ’27, N Klepczarek ’26, Dr. Stuart Patterson, Liam Bochenski ’26, Ruin Corbin ’26, Mischa Rose ’27, Alan Rosenberg S’72, Ed Juracek S’70.
Alumni Calendar
JANUARY - JUNE 2026
Basketball Alumni Hospitality & Women’s Basketball Alumni Day
January 10, 3 p.m.
2 p.m., Cardinal Women vs. Wheaton 4:15 p.m., Cardinal Men vs. Wheaton Gregory Arena, Merner Field House
Education Alumni Event
January 29, 5 - 7:30 p.m.
Elements at Water Street, Naperville
Baseball Lead-Off Luncheon
February 1
St. Andrews Golf & Country Club West Chicago, Ill.
Alumni Board Meeting
February 7
Men’s Volleyball Alumni Day
February 7
2 p.m., Cardinal Men vs. Calvin University Gregory Arena, Merner Field House
Post-match Alumni & Family Reception
Men’s Basketball Alumni Day
February 14
1 p.m. Men’s Alumni Basketball Game
5 p.m. Cardinal Women vs. Elmhurst University
7 p.m. Cardinal Men vs. Elmhurst University Gregory Arena, Merner Field House
Softball 50 th Anniversary Event
February 21, 5 - 8 p.m.
Stevenson Hall, Wentz Science Center
Naperville Ale Fest
February 28, 12 - 4 p.m.
Frontier Park, Naperville
Cardinal First Alumni Academy
March 20, 5 - 8 p.m.
Wentz Science Center
Dr. Larry Van Oyen Retirement Concert & Celebration
April 11
7 p.m., Concert
Alumni Reception immediately following Wentz Concert Hall & Fine Arts Center
Honors Day/Rall Symposium for Student Research
April 16
Accounting Alumni Event
April 23
College Scholars Alumni Event
April 24
Baseball Alumni Day
April 25
Zimmerman Stadium
Commencement Weekend
May 1 - 3
Chicago Cubs at Milwaukee Brewers
June 27
American Family Field, Milwaukee, Wis.
Deadline to submit for the 2026-2027 academic year:
1, 2026 CATCH OUR CARDINALS THIS SPRING!
Several teams will be traveling during spring break to compete out of state. Watch northcentralcardinals.com for team schedules, updates and details.
BASEBALL
March 7 - 15, 2026
Marietta, Ohio
MEN’S AND WOMEN’S TENNIS
March 6 - 12, 2026 Orlando, Fla.
SOFTBALL
March 7 - 14, 2026
Clermont, Fla.
WOMEN’S LACROSSE
March 14, 2025 Louisville, Ky.
MEN’S LACROSSE
March 9, 2026 Lexington, Ky.
30 N. Brainard St. Naperville, IL 60540
FIRST DAY SMILES
“Say Cheese!” Cardinals kicked off the fall semester by posing for photos outside Old Main on Aug. 20, the first day of classes. With a record total enrollment of 3,179 students, campus was buzzing with excitement. All of our students are fortunate to have the support of North Central alumni and the Naperville community behind them!
STAY CONNECTED!
See what our Cardinals are up to all year long by following North Central College on social media.
