Rockford University Catalyst Spring/Summer 2023

Catalyst ROCKFORD UNIVERSITY

S P R I N G / S U M M E R 2023

WHERE ARE

THEY NOW?

‘Golden Grads’

Celebrate 50 YEARS

Now & Then

AFTERNOON TEA on May 1, 2023, at the Rockford Country Club. Past alumni and May Day Queens were there, including former May Day Queens Maryjo Domino Pritz '49, Arlene Murin Krizka '60, and Pat Zell Ranft '65.

contents

4 5

InsightView Message from the President

RuNews Unforgettable Performances Rising Academic Star Thriving on the Digital Battlefield

13 14 18 22

AthleticNews Diemer Brothers Make History

RockFord feature ‘Golden Grads’ Celebrate 50 Years

FacultyNews Farewell to the Needle and Thread Rockford University Costume Designer Takes Last Bow

AlumniNews Reminisce on Heartfelt Memories

On the Cover

PHOTO BY SCOTT THOMAS

The cover photo appeared in the 1973 Rockford Univeristy Recensio (RU’s Yearbook).

It was titled "Tour de France Bicycle Race."

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Catalyst ROCKFORD UNIVERSITY

InsightView

SPRING/SUMMER 2023 - VOLUME 24, NO. 1 Catalyst is published by Office of Philanthropy & Alumni Engagement Rockford University

5050 E. State St. | Rockford, IL 61108 815.394.5111 | alumni@rockford.edu PUBLICATION’S STAFF AND CONTRIBUTORS Andrea V. Watson, Senior Director of Marketing & Communications Sara Myers, Digital Media & Communications Specialist Lindsey Giardino, Freelance Writer Alex Johnson, Director of Student Involvement and Orientation Kyle Fritz, Assistant Director of Athletic Communications Aris Sherwood Nicole Riley Chartwell Agency This publication may be accessed at www.rockford.edu/alumni/catalyst. If you receive too many copies or would like to be removed from the mailing list, please contact alumni@rockford.edu or call 815.394.5041.

ROCKFORD UNIVERSITY ADMINISTRATION President Patricia A Lynott, Ph.D. Provost & Vice President for Academic Affairs Deepshikha Shukla, Ph.D. Vice President For Finance & Chief Financial Officer Lisa Custardo, CPA, CGMA Vice President For Enrollment Management Michael J. Quinn, Ph.D. Vice President for Student Life & Dean of Students Randy Worden, D. Min Vice President for Advancement Linda Ploenzke Sandquist ‘85 ROCKFORD UNIVERSITY BOARD OF TRUSTEES Chair Rebecca Epperson Vice Chair L. Thomas Heiser ’84 Treasurer Greg Allen ’98 Secretary Jeffry Potter ’98 ROCKFORD UNIVERSITY BOARD OF TRUSTEES Keith Akre, Teresa Beach-Shelow, Charles Box, J.D., Lesly Couper, Elizabeth Donovan ’20H, Eric W. Fulcomer, Ph.D., Deborah Breiter, Ph.D., Dawn Gile ’02, Anisha Grimmett, Elizabeth Hegel, J.D., ’81, Ganesh Iyer, Lain D. Johnston, J.D., ’87, James W. Keeling, J.D., ’18H, Joel Moore ’00, Thomas Muldowney ’74, Aaron Potter ’98/MBA ’09, Michael Schablaske ’87, Kristin Smith, Marci K. Taets ’92, Barbara R. Tanaglia ’73, Patricia Tumilowicz ’87, Frank E. Walter,

I

t is with immense pride that I can share with you some of the exciting initiatives the University has embarked upon in the past six months.

We have signicantly expanded the number of Rockford Public School District 205 students who are now eligible to attend RU on a full scholarship. We have designed and implemented our new “Horizon Grant” program which allows eligible Illinois students to attend RU for $5,000 a year.

We are investing in the resources necessary to double the growth of our Regents First program designed to fully support our students who are rst in their families to earn a bachelor’s degree.

We have become associate members of the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities (HACU) as we prepare to become a federally-designated Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI). Our commitment to access and serving the needs of our student population is paramount.

Our commitment to rigorous, high-demand majors is also critically important as evidenced by the addition of our new majors in: Supply

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Chain & Logistics; Digital Marketing; Healthcare Administration; Data Analytics, and; Cybersecurity.

And we hosted our rst-ever “Rockford University Business Summit” on June 29th where we asked area business leaders to share with us how we can better support their needs.

We want to ensure that our programming aligns with the skills and knowledge required for their industries, and we want to be certain they have a clear understanding of all that RU can offer.

These are truly exciting times at Rockford University. We not only have an incredibly rich history – we have an incredibly promising future.

P�ricia A. Lyn�

PATRICIA A. LYNOTT, PH.D. PRESIDENT

RUNews

Unforgettable Performances

BY LINDSEY GIARDINO

IT’S ALWAYS AN EXCITING TIME within Rockford University’s performing arts program.

Each academic year, the department produces a collection of theater productions open to the campus community and general public. This past fall, those productions included a 1960s themed cabaret show directed by RU Performing Arts Professor Timm Adams entitled, “Good Vibrations: Songs of the 60s!”

Complementary tickets were sent to Rockford University alumni who graduated in the 1960s and 1970s, and many attended a performance.

Another performance, “These Shining Lives,” was directed by Professor Deborah Mogford in November 2022. The heart-wrenching play is based on the true story of Catherine Donahue and her friends who worked for the Radium Dial Company and how women’s lives were changed between 1922 and 1938 by the right to vote and new job opportunities.

In addition, Rockford University’s choirs and special guest Camerata Emanon put on a choral concert in November, performing “And the Angels Sang.”

The fall season came to a close with a dance performance, “Orchesis: New Beginnings,” co-directed by Performing Arts Department Chair and Technical Director Beth Drog and graduating senior Marissa Ott. Not only did this feature Rockford University dancers, but it also featured dancers from Rockford Dance Company, Evolve Dance Company, Auburn High School and South Beloit High School.

“Rockford University Performing Arts truly produces excellence i n the realm of performing arts here in Rockford,” said Margaret McGraw, administrative and marketing assistant for the visual

and performing arts program at RU. “The rigorous program provided by our hardworking faculty produces in our students the skills they need to progress in their artistic career.”

Although guided by faculty, each show is the collective hard work of every student in the program, McGraw said.

While there are many highlights of the overall program to call out, one pressing event is the retirement of Professor Jeff Hendry, who retired at the end of the spring semester after 41 years. He created the majority of the costumes seen on stage at Rockford University .

To purchase tickets to a future Rockford University production or to learn more about all the happenings, call 815-226-4100 or visit ticketor.com/rockforduniversity.

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GALA 2023

Rockford University transformed its campus into an evening of elegance in support of student scholarships. More than 150 people attended the University’s Annual “Just Imagine” Gala on Feb. 18, 2023.

205 ROBOTICS EVENT

Nearly 250 RPS 205 high school students from four schools competed March 2, 2023, in the ‘Balloon Bots Robotics’ Competition. Three teams placed and left with awards in the nal round.

NEW MAJOR & GRANT

RU announced a new major, Cybersecurity, and $5,000 a year tuition for eligible prospective students in the Rockford area called the Horizon Grant in a press conference April 18, 2023.

The news conference was covered by local TV stations and local newspapers, such as The Rock River Current and 23 News.

CLS CERTIFICATION

Rockford University’s Center for Learning Strategies earned certication for Level 1 and Level II Advanced Certication from the internationally recognized College Reading & Learning Association (CRLA).

More information on these past events can be found at Rockford.edu.

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DAY OF GIVING 2023

On Day of Giving, April 27, 2023, two new records were set with over $131,000 raised from 408 donors.

In 2022, Day of Giving raised over $120,000 from 375 donors.

RPS BUSINESS COMPETITION

Rockford Public Schools 205 hosted a career training/business competition on April 14, 2023, for nearly 150 eleventh grade students from Auburn, East, Guilford, and Jefferson high schools at Rockford University’s Regents Hall in Burpee.

RU STEM DAY

Rockford University hosted about 60 students from Lincoln and Marshall Middle Schools in Rockford on April 6, 2023 for its Second Annual STEM Day.

RU On Air

BY SARA MYERS, DIGITAL MEDIA & COMMUNICATIONS SPECIALIST

IN LATE SUMMER 2022, as the season drew to a close, a Rockford University marketing student named Dominick Welte aimed to benefit fellow RU students. Welte, a junior, launched his podcast, RU on Air, at the start of the Fall 2022 semester. Welte observed that numerous individuals visit the RU campus daily, often staying unnoticed. With his university-focused podcast, Welte brings these people into the limelight. The podcast's goal is to showcase the diverse talent at Rockford University, including athletes, students, and teachers, fostering a stronger sense of community. Check out RU On Air on Spotify, Apple, Amazon, and Buzzsprout.

ForumSeries

JOHN IMAH

Rockford University had the privilege of hosting the renowned entrepreneur, tech advisor, and gaming expert, John Imah, as the keynote speaker for the highly anticipated "Aspire to Inspire Before you Expire" forum, a marquee event held at Fisher Chapel on March 28, 2023. Imah shared his extraordinary journey, captivating the audience with his story of rising to become an advisor to A-list celebrities and a prominent inuencer in the technology industry. His insights and experiences resonated deeply with RU students and the community, offering valuable lessons and inspiration for those aspiring to make their mark in the everevolving world of technology and entrepreneurship.

MARIELA SHAKER

Mariela Shaker, a talented musician and esteemed advocate for refugees, graced Rockford University on April 7, 2023, as a distinguished guest of the Rockford University Forum Series hosted at Fisher Chapel. With her enchanting melodies, she captivated the audience with a heartfelt selection of songs. Beyond her musical prowess, Shaker shared her inspiring journey and unwavering commitment to refugee advocacy, drawing from her own experiences as a Syrian refugee. Her powerful words and moving performance left a lasting impact, fostering a deeper understanding and empathy within the university community.

JEFF HENDRY

Jeff Hendry, renowned designer and long-time faculty member at Rockford Colleversity, recently delivered a captivating Last Lecture in honor of the esteemed Fr. Robert J. Verstynen. The event, held at Fisher Chapel on April 10, 2023, offered an opportunity for Hendry to reect on his remarkable 41-year journey at the institution. Sharing cherished memories and anecdotes, Hendry highlighted his favorite designs and the profound impact of his extensive travels on his creative vision. A captivating excerpt from Hendry's inspiring talk can be viewed on RU's YouTube channel, offering a glimpse into his illustrious career and the enduring legacy he leaves behind.

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Rising Academic Star

BY CHARTWELL AGENCY

Elia Rothermel ’23

“My time at Rockford University

CELIA ROTHERMEL, a Rockford University Class of 2023 Graduate, was named a Lincoln Academy Student Laureate, a prestigious award given to only 55 students in the state in December 2022.

The honor is bestowed by The Lincoln Academy of Illinois to the most noteworthy senior from each of the participating Illinois colleges and universities.

— CELIA ROTHERMEL “23 In the spirit of Lincoln, Student Laureates are honored for their leadership and service in the pursuit of the betterment of humanity and for overall excellence in through freshman orientation with thoughtfulness and compassion. curricular and extracurricular activities. Student Laureates are Additionally, Rothermel worked for several years as a Student selected by their individual schools.

Union Manager and was often the rst face a guest to the university Rothermel majored in Biology (Biomedical Sciences) and minored encountered upon arrival. Her supervisors praised her friendly and in Chemistry, during her time at RU. She plans on attending physician welcoming attitude and willingness to go above and beyond, often assistant school after graduating in May 2023. During her time offering to arrive early or stay late to help her team. at Rockford University, she has been an active member of the “My time at Rockford University has allowed me to get involved school community. both inside the classroom and throughout the broader university Rothermel served as a member of Commuter Council, the student community,” said Rothermel. “I am very grateful for my time here leadership team that plans and hosts events and activities tailored and the experiences I have been given. I look forward to taking what specically for the university’s commuter students. Previously, she I’ve learned at RU and continuing my volunteer activities and worked as a Regent Experience Guide, leading incoming students community involvement after I graduate in the spring.”

has allowed me to get involved both inside the classroom and throughout the broader university community.

”

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Thriving on the Digital Battlefield

BY LINDSEY GIARDINO

W

hen Rockford Female Seminary was chartered on February 25, 1847, playing games on a computer was not imaginable. It did not exist.

Fast forward 176 years later, and Rockford University’s Esports program is growing and thriving as another attraction for new students. The Esports program, formally called Regent’s Esports, formed in the fall of 2019.

The 2022-23 season was especially exciting. The program received generous funding to purchase new gaming computers and launched scholarships specically for students in Esports. Regent’s Esports also has its own state-of-the-art facility located in the heart of the Burpee Student Center, which features two dedicated streaming/content creation desktops, 16 MSI gaming stations, and top tier gaming peripherals.

“Students from all aspects of the university get involved with our program for the chance to compete in the games they are passionate about,” said Alex Johnson, director of student involvement and orientation and Esports coordinator.

Esports students play on teams in competitive matches.

Rockford University Esports Director and Graduate Hall Director, Tanner Elliott, has been with the program since 2019, but officially began his new role in 2023.

“This program has developed me professionally, socially, and academically just as much as my education has here at RU,” he said.

“My goal is to make students on the teams feel like they found where they belong at RU and give them the best experience possible.”

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FALL KICKOF HOMECOMING

Fall Events Recap

BY ALEX JOHNSON, DIRECTOR OF STUDENT INVOLVEMENT AND ORIENTATION ROCKFORD UNIVERSITY'S 2022-2023 EVENTS were a huge success, drawing in large crowds of enthusiastic students eager to take part in the festivities. The events were meticulously planned and executed by the Campus Activities Board and Commuter Council. They ensured that every detail was accounted for and every guest had an enjoyable time. From the Fall Kickoff, Homecoming Week, Star Wars Thanksgiving, and the End of The Year Bash, there was something for everyone to participate in.

The University's commitment to creating a vibrant and engaging campus culture was evident in the many events that brought students together to socialize, learn, and have fun. Overall, the 22-23 events at Rockford University provided students with an unforgettable experience that will be cherished for years to come.

SEE MORE AT ROCKFORD.EDU.

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STAR WARS THANKSGIVING

END OF THE YEAR

December Recognition Ceremony ROCKFORD UNIVERSITY HELD ITS DECEMBER RECOGNITION CEREMONY on Saturday, Dec. 10, 2022.

We honored a new class of graduates and their achievements.

The special event celebrate their  and former president Dr. Eric Fulcomer’s  nal moments with Rockford University.

Congratulations graduates! We are so proud of you.

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AthleticNews

Diemer Brothers

Make History R

BY KYLE FRITZ, ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF ATHLETIC COMMUNICATIONS

ockford University’s junior and Men’s Basketball forward Kevin Diemer surpassed another career milestone this past season, when he scored his 1,000th career point in the Regents' 74-64 win at Benedictine University. Kevin is no stranger to achieving career milestones however, as he is also in the men's basketball record book for grabbing his 500th career rebound in the 2021 Northern Athletics Collegiate Conference Tournament (NACC) Championship game at Wisconsin Lutheran College.

Currently, Kevin is one of only 17 RU men's basketball players with 500 career rebounds, one of only 26 players with 1,000 points and one of only 15 players in program history with both 1,000 points and 500 rebounds. All of these accomplishments put him among some of Rockford's best players, as he currently sits 21st on the all-time scoring list with 1,081 points and 12th in the alltime rebounding list with 659 boards.

It was a really awesome experience to be able to reach that milestone, and what made it even more special was that it came in the most important win of our season thus far," Kevin said, when asked about reaching 1,000 points. "My teammates truly are the best, and I want to thank them for helping me along the way. They really made it a special night for me, and I could not be more grateful for them."

Kevin is not the only Diemer to make both of these lists. His older brother Tony accomplished both of those feats just a few years prior. Tony joined the 1,000 point club with a 26-point effort at Edgewood College back on January 23, 2018. Tony then joined the 500 rebound club ten months later with 10 rebounds in the Regents' opening game of the 2018-19 season at Carroll University. Both of these were special moments for the Diemer family, as Kevin played alongside his brother during each of those seasons and was able to watch him hit both career milestones.

Tony nished his career fourth on Rockford's all-time scoring list with 1,650 points and tenth in program

history with 679 rebounds. However, Kevin is close to surpassing both of Tony's marks and still has another year of eligibility remaining. Kevin currently needs just 569 points and 21 rebounds to vault ahead of his older brother on Rockford's career scoring and rebounding lists. No matter who ends up on top though, Kevin and Tony have already made history as the rst pair of brothers to score 1,000 points and grab 500 rebounds at Rockford University.

"Our entire childhood we competed in any way we could, which really helped both of us get better in the long run," Kevin said. "I know I would not be the competitor I am today without him."

The 2022-23 men's basketball team qualied for the NACC Tournament by winning their nal four NACC

“Our entire childhood

we competed in any way we could, which really helped both of us get better in the long run.

— KEVIN DIEMER ‘23

”

games of the regular season against Benedictine, Lakeland, Aurora and Illinois Tech. Those four wins sent the Regents to the conference tournament for the third straight year and for the fourth time in the last ve years.

The Regents entered the 2023 NACC Tournament as the number six seed, but unfortunately came up short in their rst round game at third seed Marian University. Despite the postseason loss, Rockford still had an outstanding season. Rockford nished with a 13-11 overall record, marking the third straight year the Regents have posted a winning record, which is the longest such streak in 20 years.

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“It was almost like going to high school. It was a familiar environment.

— BARBARA TANAGLIA ‘73

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”

Where Are They now?

‘Golden Grads’

Celebrate  YEARS

BY SARA MYERS, DIGITAL MEDIA & COMMUNICATIONS SPECIALIST

THIS YEAR CELEBRATES FIFTY YEARS SINCE THE CLASS OF 1973 GRADUATED FROM ROCKFORD COLLEGE NOW ROCKFORD UNIVERSITY. GRADUATES FROM THIS GOLDEN GRAD CLASS SHARED STORIES WITH US ON WHY THEY ARE PROUD TO CALL ROCKFORD THEIR ALMA MATER.

H

DAVID & BARBARA TANAGLIA igh school sweethearts Dave Tanaglia and Barb Ragnar (now Tanaglia) met at Auburn High School in Rockford.

For their rst year of college, they chose separate schools.

Dave received an athletic scholarship for swimming at RC, which secured his decision to stay in Rockford, he said.

Barb originally went to Augustana College in Rock Island, Illinois during her freshman year, but said she quickly realized a big campus was not for her.

So, she decided to join her boyfriend —now husband — and other friends from Auburn at Rockford College.

“Besides David, there were a number of other people from our class in high school (at Rockford College),” Barb said. “It was almost like going to high school.

It was a familiar environment.”

Aside from the social experience, Barb said she appreciated the visiting professors.

“As an economics major, I took a lot of history and English classes,” she said.“I remember one year we had one from France and he had lived through World War II. One of my economics professors was very bright, had a photographic memory.”

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“We want to give back to the

university because we really feel that this is a place that has a lot to give people. We want to make sure that it stays successful in the future.

”

Aside from the social experience, Barb said she appreciated the visiting professors.

“As an economics major, I took a lot of history and English classes,” she said. “I remember one year we had one from France and he had lived through World War II. One of my economics professors was very bright, had a photographic memory.”

After getting her economics degree, Barb said she moved on to pursue a career in banking. Later she would get her Master of Library Science and switch careers.

While Barb progressed in her career, Dave used his Biology degree to become a veterinarian.

The couple later married after their time at Rockford College and eventually had two daughters.

Barb is currently on the RU Board of Trustees and is an active member of RU’s alumni association.

“We both have had successful lives,” Barb said. “We want to give back to the university because we really feel that this is a place that has a lot to give people. We want to make sure that it stays successful in the future.”

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BARRY SMITH

Barry Smith said he chose Rockford College after being inuenced by his mother, an alumna from the class of 1939.

Some of his fondest memories from the Rockford College days include special people like his academic advisor Dr. Victor Crawford.

He said he also remembers the day he discovered that his sociology professor was actually his mother’s roommate during her time at RC. He even remembers getting to sing in the U.S. Presidential Inaugural Ball in Washington D.C. in January 1973 with RC’s Regent Singers.

Smith graduated with his Bachelor of Arts in Biology in 1973. He would later receive his doctoral degree in Plant Biology from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign.

Although he studied biology, Smith said he spent his entire career working in the Chicago advertising market through retirement.

“I have valued my original liberal arts education, it has allowed me to do different things without having to be specically trained in something,” Smith said.

Now, Smith lives with his husband John Hobbs in North Carolina, where they live close to Hobbs’ grandchildren.

“I have valued my original liberal arts education, it has allowed me to do different things without having to be specifically trained in something.

”

— BARRY SMITH ‘73

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FacultyNews

Farewell to the Needle and Thread Rockford University Costume Designer Takes Last Bow

BY ARIS SHERWOOD

W

alk into the lobby of Maddox Theatre in the Clark Arts Center at Rockford University, and you will nd mannequins dressed in costumes of shows past. Underneath them are the designers' names on plaques. Newly retired professor of theater arts and costume designer, Jeff Hendry’s name is captured on many.

Hendry retired at the end of the 2023 spring semester after 41 years. During his time here, Hendry has worn many different hats due to his diverse background. He has directed shows and has even taught Rockford University theater history and Shakespeare courses.

Originally from Phoenix, Arizona, Hendry received his Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theater Production from the University of Arizona, and Master of Fine Arts in Costume Design from University of Massachusetts, Amherst.

When he left graduate school, Hendry said he was

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searching for jobs primarily in the Midwest. Rockford University was where he ended up and stayed.

“I kind of bounced around a lot,” he said.

DESIGNER OF MANY HATS “I have an odd skill set compared to most costume designers,” he said. “Most design people have a secondary emphasis in graduate school in another design area. I didn’t. I had directing as my secondary emphasis. I guess that’s always interested me.”

In the early 1990’s, the faculty from the theater department came together to create a musical theater major, Hendry said.

Since then, Hendry has taught both performance and history/literature. He is now the only professor left of the program’s original creators.

“Professor Mogford likes to refer to me as a ‘Renaissance Man,’” he said. “I wear a lot of hats, and quite frankly, that’s part of the reason why I’ve stayed here for so long. If I had gone

“Don’t be afraid to take a risk.

If any place, this is the place you can take a risk.

— JEFF HENDRY

”

to a larger university, I’d end up in the costume shop and that’s all I’d be doing, because I wouldn’t have the opportunity to work in these other areas that I really enjoy.”

Besides teaching, costume designing, and directing, on top of his extensive freelancing career, Hendry said Rockford University has given him opportunities beyond what he ever expected. Back when the university was connected to Regents College in London, England, Hendry said he was sent to London to oversee and operate the program.

“Living in London for a year and a half totally changed my outlook on life,” he said.

When Rockford University applied for and received a grant from the American and Japanese Foundation of Education, three professors were chosen to work on a communications effort with 9 other schools in the country and travel to Japan for research of their choosing.

“I was researching Kabuki Theater and came back and produced a play in traditional Kabuki style, which was really exciting for me and the students. I could have never imagined doing that sort of thing when I came here” For those future Rockford University students and next generation of costume designers who will not get to experience Jeff Hendry, the professor, he had one piece of advice: “Don’t be afraid to take a risk. If any place, this is the place you can take a risk,” he said. “When I was starting here, my God, I made so many mistakes when I look back on it. But I learned from every single one of them, and it made me a better teacher and a better designer.”

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FacultyNotes FALL 2022-SPRING 2023

services to the Illinois Section of American Association of Physics Teachers.”

Dr. Shukla also won Employee of the Year Award at RU at the May 2023 Employee Recognition Dinner.

DR. DONNA OGLE, FORMERLY ASSISTANT PROFESSOR OF

DAVE MENARD M.F.A., ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR OF ART, is part of local art collaboration group

Fatherless Print Posse. Other Rockford-based artists in the group are Javier Jimenez, Greg Lang, and Ben Rider (Rider is from the U.K.).

Fatherless held an exhibit June 9, 2023, at the Rockford Art Museum. More information can be found at rockfordartmuseum.org.

COMPUTER SCIENCE, was tenured and promoted to Associate Professor of CSCI (Computer Science Conguration Item).

DR. FILIZ DIK, PROFESSOR OF MATHEMATICS, received

the Mary Ashby Cheek Global Award from the Council of Global Affairs in December 2022.

DR. AMY MARTIN

was tenured and promoted to Associate Professor of Psychology.

JENNA GOLDSMITH, AN ENGLISHLITERATURE LECTURER,

was named Rockford’s 2nd Poet Laureate. Goldsmith was sworn into her role at Rockford City Hall Jan. 23, 2023, by Rockford Mayor Tom McNamara.

DR. ORHAN ERDEM, ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR OF FINANCE,

DR. DEEPSHIKHA SHUKLA, DEAN OF COLLEGE OF SCIENCE, MATH AND NURSING; ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR OF PHYSICS; AND INTERIM PROVOST & VP FOR ACADEMIC AFFAIRS, received the 2022 Distinguished Service Citation Award from ISAAPT (Illinois Section of American Association of Physics Teacher).

“For signicant contributions to the teaching of Physics and for dedicated and inspirational

and his undergraduate student Carlos Martinez received a grant from the Institute for Humane Studies (IHS) for their joint research, “Why Did COVID-19 Wreck the Global Economy?

A Macroeconomic Comparison with the 1918 Spanish Flu.” Erdem and Martinez presented the paper at the 87th Annual Midwest Economic Association Meetings from March 31 to April 2, 2023 in Cleveland, Ohio.

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RECENT RETIREES ELIZABETH JOHNSON-LOVETT retired in September 2022. She worked here for 15 years as the Licensure Officer, but started off as an Administrative Assistant in the Education Department.

Her first day was May 12, 2008.

ANNA JATTKOWSKI-HUDSON also retired in Spring 2023. She was also here for 15 years and was both the Associate Vice President for Advising & Retention and the Registrar. She started at RU Feb. 4, 2008.

JEFF HENDRY, Professor of Performing Arts and Costume Designer, retired in May 2023 after 41 years at the University. Hendry’s first day at RU was September 1, 1982. Hendry likes to refer to RU as Rockford Colleversity (merging the words College and University together). Since when he started here it was called Rockford College, but the institution is now known as Rockford University.

PHOTOS BY SCOTT THOMAS

AlumniNews

2013 RU Capstone Project Team (at RU graduation ceremony). Pictured (from left to right): Susan Palm, Julia Halsted, Gary Stacy,and Michele Mehren.

Reminisce on Heartfelt Memoriess

BY SARA MYERS, DIGITAL MEDIA & COMMUNICATIONS SPECIALIST

THE YEAR 2013 became the start of a new chapter for Rockford University. It was the year that the institution announced its name change from Rockford College to Rockford University.

In honor of ten years since this milestone and their own graduation, multiple alumni from the class of 2013 shared their favorite college memories, and how RU prepared them for their careers.

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JOANNA (BARES) MLADIC ‘13 Joanna Bares (now Mladic) said she was originally drawn to Rockford College because of the vast volunteer opportunities available. Mladic studied history and secondary education during her time at RU, and initially aspired to be a history teacher, she said.

As a student she wrote for RU’s student newspaper the Recensio and participated in volunteer projects through Rotary International. She said her time in Dr. Catherine Forslund’s history classes were some of her fondest memories. That’s where she said she learned to analyze and interpret historical documents.

“All my professors were wonderful,” Mladic said.

After graduating, Mladic decided that instead of pursuing a teaching career, she would use the skills she learned in Forslund’s history classes. In 2014, she worked at RU as a technical services assistant, serial manager and archivist. Later, she became RU’s Electronic Resources Librarian and Archivist.

Today, Mladic works at the North Suburban Library District, located in both Loves Park and Roscoe, as the Global History Librarian.

JULIA HALSTED ‘13 By the time Julia Halsted began studying at RU, she already had a family and a home in Rockford.

She said she needed a bachelor’s program with exibility since her family was the rst priority. She enrolled in the Rockford University Degree Completion Program.

“I ended up being a ‘comeback kid’ as they call it around here and relocated back to the (Rockford) area,” Halsted said.

She said the program t perfectly for her lifestyle. Halsted was able to nish her bachelor’s degree at her own pace. Halsted said she

wanted to do something related to business so pursued the management studies degree. Since then, she has worked for RPS 205, the Rockford Park District, Winnebago County, and is now the Director of Operations of Administration and HR Finance at Region 1 Planning Council in Rockford.

When Halsted graduated from RU, she walked at commencement while pregnant with her second child, Anabel.

“I chose to have Rockford University (instead of Rockford College) on my diploma,” Halsted said on her degree. “I think because I’m so forward looking, I was really excited to be among the rst to have that distinction.”

BILL NEWKIRK ‘13 Alumnus Bill Newkirk was visiting friends who lived in the Rockford area when he heard about Rockford College for the rst time. He said he was drawn onto the beautiful campus during that trip.

Newkirk received both his bachelor’s degree and MBA in accounting from RU, in 2012 and 2013, respectively. He credits his mother, who is a certied public accountant, for inspiring him to go into the accounting eld.

During his time at RU, he was involved in student government and was even a resident advisor, he said. He recalls having many professors who made an impact on him, such as Bob Evans, Bill Lewis and Hank Epstein.

“It laid the foundation for my accounting knowledge,” Newkirk said.

Since graduating, he has taken over the family accounting rm, Newkirk and Associates, He said he has been able to use his foundation at RU in the real world and since 2016, has helped grow his family business.

Newkirk is now married to his wife Susie (previously Smith) who graduated RU in 2009. They have three children together.

Robert Head, president of Rockford College, speaks during the college's commencement ceremony Saturday, May 12, 2012, at the Coronado Performing Arts Center in Rockford.

Rockford Register Star

Spring/Summer 2023 •

Rockford University | Catalyst

23

ClassNotes

Administrator and Deputy Clerk for the

Emeritus Virgil C. Johnson, whose father

City of Countryside, IL since 2006. She

was a defenseman on the 1938 team.

Author and two-time United States

degree from Northern Illinois University.

Hockey Hall of Fame Executive Director

Sharon is looking forward to working

Roger Godin calls the book “A pioneering

with President Richardson, the Trustees

work on pre-WWII professional hockey.”

1970s

1980s

has a Master of Public Administration

BARBARA HORBACZ LAMPHERE ‘72

JEFF JURY ‘82

and staff. They have done an amazing job

“I retired in 2007 as principal of

Jeff Jury retired from law practice at the

in building a beautiful community with

Although I have authored several hockey

Westchester Primary School in

end of 2022 to focus on his work as a

an impressive amount of open space for

books, I mostly write about business and

Westchester, Illinois. We moved to Fort

mediator, arbitrator and teacher. He is

residents to enjoy and a collaborative

industry for reference products from

Myers, Florida in 2010. This year has

affiliated with Lakeside Mediation

business climate where companies can

Cengage Learning, Infobase Learning,

been particularly momentous. My

Center, one of the most prominent

grow and thrive

Vault.com, and other leading publishers.

husband, Michael and I celebrated our

mediation groups in the USA:

50th anniversary and survived Hurricane

www.lakesidemediation.com. He has

PAUL GREENLAND ‘95

to Case Interviews, Ninth Edition, which

Ian. We organized our neighborhood to

taught courses in negotiation and

“I recently published my sixth

Forbes calls ‘CliffsNotes for Careers.’”

facilitate local storm preparation and

mediation at the University of Texas

nonfiction book. While attending

cleanup efforts. We keep busy doing

School of Law since 2012. He feels

Rockford University, I also was working

JEANNE SOKOLOWSKI ‘95

volunteer work for the Tunnel to Towers

indebted to professors Bob Evans and

on my very first book (an authorized

Jeanne Sokolowski the State

Foundation and participate in various

Jules Gleicher for their mentorship.

history of the Chicago Blackhawks called

Department as a Foreign Service Office

Hockey Chicago Style, which was

in the Public Diplomacy cone, inJanuary

released by Sagamore Publishing in

2023. Her journey to the State

activities, perform condo association duties, and support a variety of causes

WENDY BOETTNER ‘85

In 2021, I co-authored The Vault Guide

within our community. While I couldn't

“I graduated from RC

November 1995). My latest book, written

Department began during her time at

make it to the 50th reunion, I hope other

at age 30 in 1985 in

over the course of seven years, is Victory

Rockford College. While at RC, Jeanne

classmates will share updates.”

the Human Relations

on Ice: The Chicago Blackhawks’ First

studied abroad at Regent's College in

(field. I worked in the

Stanley Cups, which covers

London.his was her first international

Human Resources

the team's 1934 and 1938 championships.

experience. After tutoring three exchange

and Benefits Field for

It includes a foreword by retired

students from Kobe College in Japan

Northwestern University Professor

during her junior year in Rockford,

many years before returning to my first career interest of teaching at Head Start preschool. I then became Disabilities and Mental Health Manager there. I retired in 2021 but continue teaching part-time as a Reading Tutor at a local grade school. Never think it is too late to complete your education or try a new PETER AYLWARD ‘73

career. I have had to learn new computer

Aylward had a leading role in the

assessment programs at age 68 in

film "Manufactured Luck" which

reading and math. I enjoy working with

was an official selection of the Beloit

younger children and the teaching staff.

International Film Festival February 24

Working-part time also gives me time

through March 5, 2023. Find more info

to pursue my other interests of reading,

at beloitfilmfest.org.

music, camping, hiking and enjoying nature. Also more time for my family

ROGER THOMAS ‘74

and friends and just relaxing and

Since Roger retired from his 31-year

enjoying life!”

FRED FULD III ‘74

JEFFREY COUSINS ‘85

IT career, he turned to something

“My latest mystery novel, Beach

Cousins recently announced the

he has always wanted to do–write. So,

1990s

Detective: Board of the Dings, was

publication of “The Right Thing

recently published on October 1,

to Do.” The book is available at

2022. It is the third in the Beach

/books2read.com/IfWeAreRobots. In

Detective series,” Fuld’s book is

this Sci-Fi adventure, Cousins tells the

And he is already hard at work on

SHARON PETERSON ‘93

available on Amazon at

story of how a captured alien reveals

another mystery novel.

Sharon Peterson has been selected as the

amzn.to/3gSL33T.

that aliens created humans. Humans

that is what he did. On July 31, 2022, Roger published his eighth book and sixth in a series of historical mysteries.

new Village Administrator for the Village

are just robots. The human race has

of Lake Barrington, IL. Sharon has nearly

different reactions to the news.

25 years of municipal experience, most recently serving as the Assistant City

24 Rockford University | Catalyst • Spring/Summer 2023

Jeanne became interested in ESL work

actively competes in the Hunter division

and taught at Kobe College High School

on the national level. USHJA's

for three years after graduation.

headquarters are located at the Kentucky Horse Park, and USHJA is one of

After returning to the U.S. Jeanne started

Kentucky's Best Places to Work.

her masters in education at RC. She was one of only three students from Rockford College to receive a Fulbright award, in order to conduct research for her Masters of Arts in Teaching thesis in South Korea.

2010s

With the Foreign Service, she will work

REESA MORALA ‘10

abroad at American embassies or

Reesa Morala graduated from Rockford

consulates, interacting with local press

University in 2010 with a BFA in Musical

and community members to explain

Theatre. From there, Morala went on to

American history and values, as well as

get her MA in Marital and Family

U.S. foreign policy.

Therapy program at the University of San Diego. She is now the proud co-

CAT STARK ‘99

owner of Embrace Renewal Therapy &

Cat Stark (BA in English) has

Wellness Collective. Embrace Renewal

independently published 5 books. She

Therapy provides individual, couples and

writes fantasy and paranormal romance.

family counseling services. The practice

Her short story collection is called Enter

offers in-person therapy to the Temecula

the Maze and she has a stand alone novel

and Murrieta area in California and

called “The Elven Prince”. Stark’s trilogy

telehealth services for all of California.

is called The Grey House, which include: The Grey House, Inside the Grey House, and Protector of the Grey House.

2000s

2020s MARIANNA RUGGERIO ‘20 Marianna Ruggerio has been selected as one of the three state finalists in

LAUREN KLEHM ‘08

Illinois for the Presidential Award in

Lauren Klehm,

Mathematics and Science Teaching for

2008, relocated to

2023. The Presidential Awards for

Lexington, KY in 2019

Excellence in Mathematics and Science

upon accepting the

Teaching (PAEMST) are the highest

position of Education

honors bestowed by the United States

Director at the United

government specifically for K-12 science,

States Hunter Jumper Association

technology, engineering, and

(USHJA). She is also a US Equestrian

mathematics teaching. The awards were

Federation recorded judge in Hunter and

established by Congress in 1983.

Hunter/Jumping Seat Equitation, and

Don't miss your chance to submit your own class note!

If you have an update you would like to share in our next issue of Catalyst, please email alumni@rockford.edu

A Chance to Share Your Story We are excited to share that Rockford University recently launched an alumni oral history project in partnership with Publishing Concepts, Inc. (PCI), to memorialize the history of our campus and the experiences of our alumni as we approach our 175th anniversary. We have worked with PCI in the past on our alumni directory projects and look forward to this new opportunity. The goal of the Rockford University Oral History Project is to collect the stories from alumni like you to celebrate and preserve your experiences and the impact that your time on campus has had on your lives as graduates of Rockford. What better way to kick-off our 175th anniversary than sharing the stories of those who have helped build our legacy.

If you have questions on an order placed, please call PCI’s customer service at 1-800-982-1590.

Spring/Summer 2023

•

Rockford University | Catalyst

25

In Memoriam REBECCA SASSAMAN '35 January 1, 2021

JOSEPH GULOTTA '59 March 4, 2023

SARAH RICHARDT INGLE '39 July 28, 2017

JIMMY JOHNSON '60 January 23, 2023

CORINNE YAW '44 December 4, 2014

CLARENCE "CLARE" LANDRY '61 October 22, 2022

BARBARA S. PORTER STUART '44 October 20, 2022

JUDITH METTE PEMBER '61 October 29, 2022

CAROL HOLLY AUTSELL '48 March 6, 2022

HARLAN NELSON '62 July 20, 2022

BETTY PEEL NEWMAN '49 September 16, 2022

JOAN JACOBSON BOND '62 December 3, 2022

JOYCE KNODLE MORRISON '49 October 26, 2022

MARY ANN JARMAN BLAHNIK '62 December 30, 2022

ELLEN MORDT HAND '49 February 8, 2023

MAURICE "MAURY" DEVLIEGER '63 April 7, 2023

ROBERT ANDERSON '50 May 3, 2023

CAROL MCCOLL HALDERSON '63 March 25, 2023

LINDA LAIRD GARTEN '51 August 12, 2022

FRANK "LEE" KAMMERLOHR '63 March 4, 2023

RUTH BACH ECK '51 January 5, 2023

DR. DONALD MABEUS '64 December 15, 2022

ANN YOUNG OAKLEY '51 April 20, 2023

DON G. NELSON '64 August 28, 2022

ROSEMARY LICARI NICOLOSI '52 December 4, 2022

IRMA HADOW HARKE '65 October 27, 2008

ELEANOR LOCKRIDGE OLSON '52 February 2, 2023

CAROL JOHNSTON MOCK '65 December 14, 2022

RUTHELLEN (R.E.) MOWER ‘54 January 20, 2019

RONALD SWANSTROM '65 December 24, 2022

PAULA LEROI HOFER '54 March 27, 2023

THOMAS MYERS, DVM '66 November 30, 2022

OLIVER "OZZIE" PERRY WEBB '54 November 19, 2022

MARGERY EVANSON SMITH '66 March 6, 2023

CLIFFORD WILSON '55 February 17, 2023

HOWARD S. LABRANT '68 October 12, 2022

RUTH COX BRUNINGS '56 October 30, 2022

SANFORD "SANDY" BALLIN '69 January 31, 2021

ELIZABETH "BETSY" BELL PIERSON '56 January 19, 2023

ANNE HUNT '69 October 27, 2022

CONSTANCE "CONNIE" ROSS CURTIS '57 July 19, 2022

WILLIAM "BILL" NILES '69 November 14, 2022

NAIDA GLEE MCSHERRY '59 December 9, 2022

FRANCIS "DUTCH" HILL '69 November 22, 2022

26 Rockford University | Catalyst • Spring/Summer 2023

HELEN DURBROW WIBBEN '69 January 25, 2023

PATRICIA NORMAN '89 February 14, 2023

JEAN HUFF SCHRADER '69 March 21, 2023

SHEILA JOHNSON CARLSON '89 March 26, 2023

DORAL "DIXIE" GLEN SIMONS '70 November 13, 2022

ERIC CARRA '91 March 8, 2023

THOMAS HIRSCH '70 December 4, 2022

RUTHELLEN MOWER '91 January 20, 2019

CHARLENE A. MURPHY RAMSEY '71 October 17, 2022

JERRY MUCCIANTI '92 September 19, 2022

A. JOANNE RODERICK '71 March 18, 2023

DARREN SMITH '93 May 3, 2023

DAN RAMSEY '71 April 20, 2023

RUTH E. LOOMIS '96 September 23, 2022

SANDRA MATHEWSON BOLINE '73 January 26, 2019

GOPALARAO NALAMOLU '98 July 27, 2022

MARCELLA J. WESSELS '73 October 1, 2022

GLENDA CARTER '02 October 30, 2022

ALBERT N. JENKS '73 October 9, 2022

SUSAN WHEALLER JOHNSTON '07 August 12, 2022

JOEL "J.B." FERGUSON '74 November 1, 2022

A. MARIE OSBORNE '07 August 19, 2018

BARBARA KING '74 November 21, 2022 PHYLLIS M. KULA LUTYENS '75 October 10, 2022 RICHARD C. PARKER '76 July 28, 2022 JOYCE SANDEEN JOHNSON '76 January 4, 2023 DWAYNE KIMBALL '78 September 2022 JOHN "JOHNZ" HARDY '79 January 9, 2023 CAROL NOVOSEL JOHNSON '81 March 19, 2023 KELLY MCCARTHY PETERSEN '82 March 28, 2023 JAMES "JIM ZIM" ZIMMERMAN '82 December 24, 2022 DEBRA J. MILLER '83 August 21, 2022 MARY ELLEN KOSER ROHR '85 December 31, 2022 OSCAR HAUSER '85 January 29, 2023

FORMER FACULTY STAFF F R I E N D TRUSTEE EMERITI WENDELL ANDERSON, Former Faculty January 5, 2023 DR. ALAN BROWN, Friend December 7, 2022 DR. EDWARD J. CONKLIN, Former Faculty October 10, 2022 KENELM GROFF, Trustee Emeriti August 4, 2022 ANTHONY KJELLGREN, Friend January 1, 2022 STANLEY ORR, Friend October 4, 2022 PAUL ROSTOWSKY, Friend September 24, 2022 RICHARD M. "DICK" SCHILLING SR. Former Trustee December 12, 2021 DR. SHALEEN SHUKLA, Former Faculty October 23, 2022

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