LOOKING BACK ON EVENTS CELEBRATING 175 YEARS OF ROCKFORD UNIVERSITY

On February 25, 1847, the charter was signed by The Illinois State Legislature establishing Rockford Female Seminary, the predecessor to Rockford College, and today’s Rockford University.

In January, we kicked off our demisemiseptcentennial (yes, that is 175 years) with a number of events and celebrations honoring Rockford alumni, faculty, students, friends, and the community.

ANNUAL GALA

Every February, the university celebrates its heritage with the annual gala. A swanky event, this year had something for everyone by highlighting the theme of 175 years. Rockford University’s Vocal Collective sang a medley of songs from decades past and present. Student actors presented life on Rockford University’s campus in the 1890s, 1940s, and 1960s. Guests generously supported the event through enthusiastic participation in the first annual Wine and Whiskey Pull.

Not every institution makes it to 175 years. It takes commitment, determination, flexibility, and generous support. To commemorate this, Rockford University bestowed the inaugural community honors awards to seven regional organizations and businesses that have been partners and advocates throughout its history. Leaders from Collins Aerospace, Community Foundation of Northern Illinois, Puri Foundation, Rockford Chamber of Commerce, Rock Valley College, Thermo Fisher Scientific, and Woodward, Inc. were recognized during a luncheon at the university on February 25.

175th ANNIVERSARY CHARTER DAY

The university hosted a series of celebrations for faculty, staff, and the school community throughout the day on February 25, with the signature event being the annual Charter Day Convocation, which took place in the university’s Maddox Theatre.

This time-honored tradition featured faculty and leadership processing in full academic regalia, remarks from President Fulcomer, and a keynote address by Charles Russell Branham ’67/’05 L.H.D, scholar and Emmy-award winning historian. It also included a city proclamation from Rockford Mayor Tom McNamara. Joining President Fulcomer on stage were three of the university’s four living past presidents: Dr. William Shields, who served as president from 1992 to 2002; Dr. Paul Pribbenow, who served from 2002 to 2006; and Dr. Robert Head, who served from 2008 to 2016.

Members of various departments worked together to curate a gallery show titled One Hundred Seventy Five — an exhibition of historical artifacts from the university’s archives. The little-seen relics included historical photographs, vintage clothing, and the academic hoods and class ring of Nobel Peace Prize winner and Rockford University alumna Jane Addams. The exhibition was on display February 26 through March 11.

REGENT REVELS

In the spirit of history, faculty and staff brought back the old tradition of “Faculty Follies.” Called “Regent Revels,” the event featured music, comedy, dance and more – all performed by the university’s faculty and staff for the amusement of students and guests. This fun-filled night showed students that faculty and staff members are quite the talented bunch.

Marking the end of the 2021-2022 academic year, students, faculty, staff, and their families gathered in the Burpee Student Center for the annual End-of-the-Year Bash.

Featuring food from local food trucks and vendors, live music, carnival games, arts and crafts, sign-making, and a crowd favorite - live t-shirt printing by Rockford Art Deli. The day was a great way to celebrate the end of the academic year while commemorating 175 years of Rockford University.