Catalyst 2024-2025 Issue

ROCKFOR D

UNI VER S I T Y

ALU MN I

MAGA ZIN E

2024-2025 Issue

28

Regents First: Celebrating Our First Graduating Cohort

8

Introducing the College of Professional and Extended Learning

12

Imagine by the Golden Grads of ‘75

18

Alumni in Action at Severson Dells

24

Game On: RU Breaks Ground on New Turf

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RO C KFO RD

U N I VERS I T Y

A LU M N I

2024-2025 Issue

M AG A ZI NE

PUBLICATION’S STAFF & CONTRIBUTORS: Kayla Eddy Marketing Coordinator

Meera Kumar Assistant Director of Student Involvement and Orientation Elizabeth Nardi ‘20 Chief Strategy and Research Officer Stephanie Prchal Communications and Data Specialist Ian Voigts Owner of Neighbor Branding The Office of Advancement & Alumni

ROCKFORD UNIVERSITY ADMINISTRATION

ROCKFORD UNIVERSITY BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Patricia A. Lynott, Ph.D.

Greg Allen ‘98, Vice Chair

President

VP for Finance & CFO

Provost & VP for

Associate VP for Business

Elizabeth Davies, Ph.D.

Physics

Academic Affairs

Senior VP for Student Life and Operations

Randy Worden, D.Min VP for Enrollment Management

Megan Frankfother ‘24

John DiRaimondo

Innovations & Professor of Deepshikha Shukla, Ph.D. Chief Strategy and Research Officer Elizabeth Nardi ‘20 Chief of Staff

Jen Cunningham

VP for Advancement Katherine Trotter 2

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Marci K. Taets ‘92, Chair

Rebecca Epperson

Aaron Potter ‘98/’09, Treasurer

Elizabeth Hegel, J.D., ‘81

Jeffry Potter ‘98, Secretary Ashley Harkey, Student Trustee

Tammy Schiek, Ph.D., Faculty Trustee

Mary Ann Laudicina ‘91, Alumni Trustee Keith Akre

Charles Box, J.D.

Chad Brigham ‘98 Lesly Couper

Elizabeth Donovan ‘20H

Anisha Grimmett

Michael Iasparro, ‘98

James W. Keeling, J.D., ‘18H Joel Moore ‘00

Anthony Scandroli ‘02 Elaine Sharpe ‘75 Kristin Smith

Patricia Tumilowicz ‘87 Frank E. Walter

In this Issue

President’s Letter..................................................................................................................................................4 Student Life...............................................................................................................................................................5 In The News...............................................................................................................................................................6 Meet Rockford University’s Assistant Director of Fun...................................................................7 Introducing the College of Professional and Extended Learning............................................8 A Cornerstone of Regional Economic Growth................................................................................. 10 Imagine (Golden Grads ‘75).......................................................................................................................... 12 Forum Series......................................................................................................................................................... 14 Legacy of Love: The Story of Kelli Ritschel Boehle ‘84................................................................ 16 Alumni in Action at Severson Dells.......................................................................................................... 18 Student, Athlete, Entrepreneur: Mateo Fernandez Solari ‘24..................................................20 History in the Making........................................................................................................................................22 Game On: RU Breaks Ground on New Turf.......................................................................................... 24 Pathways to Possibility Gala........................................................................................................................26

This publication may be accessed at www.rockford.edu/alumni/catalyst.

Regents First: Celebrating Our First Graduating Cohort............................................................28 Class Notes............................................................................................................................................................30 Faculty Notes........................................................................................................................................................32

Rockford University

5050 E. State Street

171st Commencement Ceremony & December Recognition................................................34

alumni@rockford.edu

In Memoriam..........................................................................................................................................................35

Rockford, IL 61108

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PRE S I DE NT ’S LET TE R As we close out another remarkable year at Rockford

University, I find myself reflecting with deep pride on all

And we continue to build with purpose. Thanks to generous

that we have accomplished—together.

donor support and state funding, we broke ground on a new

At a time when higher education is facing complex challenges,

and the women’s flag football program. Our annual Gala and

Rockford University continues to chart a bold and confident

path forward. This year, we celebrated the Board of Trustees’ approval of a new five-year strategic plan, a blueprint for

turf field that will serve as a dynamic home for football, soccer, Day of Giving raised critical funds for the Student Opportunity Fund and renovations to Scarborough Hall.

transformation that reinforces our commitment to student

Perhaps most importantly, the heart of our institution remains

It’s a plan rooted in reality, but inspired by possibility—and

faculty pursue meaningful scholarship, and our alumni are

success, academic excellence, and community engagement. already, the momentum is unmistakable.

Our enrollment remains strong and steady, a testament to the dedicated work of our admissions and financial aid teams and to the enduring value of a Rockford University education. Our

strong. Our students continue to lead with purpose, our

making an impact across the country and around the globe.

From the Dominican Republic service trip to an undefeated

Esports season to STEM outreach in our own community, the stories of transformation and growth are all around us.

new locked-in tuition model has been met with enthusiasm

There is much more to do—and we are ready. With gratitude

access and affordability in higher education.

invite you to stay connected, get involved, and share in our

from prospective students and families who are seeking both

We have invested intentionally in areas that matter—adding

vibrant new academic programs, expanding student support

services, and launching initiatives that prepare our graduates for an evolving workforce. From the success of our Regents

for where we’ve been and optimism for what lies ahead, I excitement for the future of Rockford University.

With appreciation,

First program for first-generation college students to the

creation of new partnerships in cybersecurity and business innovation, our efforts are helping students thrive—on campus and beyond.

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R O C K F O R D U N I V E R S I T Y • Cat alyst

Patricia A. Lynott, Ph.D. President

Student Life WORDS

Meera Kumar ‘24, Assistant Director of Student Involvement and Orientation Just like that, another year of exciting events and unforgettable

memories has come and gone. We kicked things off with a bang at

Fall Kickoff, setting the tone for a spirited and energized year for all Regents.

Student involvement thrived this year thanks to the creative efforts

of three of our core leadership groups. The Campus Activities Board brought the energy with standout events like a regal Homecoming

Week themed “Regent Royalty” and an exciting Casino Night, where students gambled fake money for real prizes—including a PS5.

Commuter Council kept things fresh with interactive programs like

Lego Day, a calming Self-Care Spa Week, and a thrilling Escape Room experience. Lastly, the Student Government Association added

some competitive flair to campus life by hosting a spirited Dodgeball

Tournament that brought students together for intense matches and loud cheers from the crowd.

We closed out the year with the always-anticipated End of the Year

Bash. Despite some unpredictable weather, nothing could dampen the

celebration. Food trucks lined the front of Burpee, and inside, students enjoyed club booths, inflatables, caricature artists, and the new addition of a dunk tank!

These events gave students the chance to take a break from

academics, build community, and make lasting memories. The 2024–

2025 school year was vibrant, engaging, and full of Regent pride—and we can’t wait to see what the next year has in store.

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In the News 01

FREE SUMMER HOUSING FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS

This summer, President Lynott offered free housing for international students if needed. Julius Eser, a student from Germany, said, “Thank you for offering the opportunity to live on campus this summer. Although I will not need to take the offer, I wanted to express my gratitude. It is heartwarming to know how much you do for the international community.”

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On September 11, 2024, 750

Thanks to the generosity of

In the Spring of 2025, Rockford

ANOTHER SUCCESSFUL DAY OF SERVICE students, staff, and faculty came

together to support the Rockford community for the annual Jane

Addams Day of Service. Teams of

volunteers headed off-campus to

support local organizations like the Burpee Museum of Natural History,

the Discovery Center, the Rockford Rescue Mission, Beyer Stadium, Midway Village, and more. Back

THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR DAY OF GIVING

THE SOCIAL WORK OPPORTUNITY TRACK

our RU community across

University announced the

the country, this year’s Day of

introduction of a new Bachelor of

Giving surpassed its goal and

Social Work (B.S.W.) to coincide

raised over $40,000 to support

renovations to Scarborough Hall.

The project will provide upgrades to ceilings, flooring, and furniture in Scarborough Hall, a fixture on campus.

on-campus, volunteers helped

beautify Howard Colman Library and Scarborough Hall before celebrating the legacy and birthday of Jane

Addams with cake in the dining hall.

FOR MORE N EWS Visit rockford.edu/newsroom

with the Social Work Opportunity Track grant. The Social Worker

Opportunity Track (SWOT) grant offers eligible students the

opportunity to attend Rockford

University tuition free for two years.

Students who commit to working in Winnebago County for three years

following graduation will receive full tuition coverage as well as $2,000

to use for wrap-around services like

childcare, books, food, and housing.

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STU DE NT LI FE

Meet Rockford University’s Assistant Director of Fun W O R D S Kayla Eddy, Marketing Coordinator

While her official title is Assistant Director of Student Involvement

While working toward her MBA, Kumar also served as the Career

coined for her–Assistant Director of Fun–is just as accurate.

Services and First Year Programs Dr. Chelsea Minor. “One of the

and Orientation, Meera Kumar ‘24 agrees that the title her family

Before attending Rockford University to earn her Master of

Business Administration (MBA), Kumar went to the University of

Illinois-Chicago (UIC) and received her undergraduate degree in

Services Graduate Assistant (GA) alongside Director of Career

great things about being a GA was having built in friends that you get to experience it all with,” she said, remembering her close relationships with fellow GA’s.

Applied Psychology, minoring in Anthropology.

“I feel like I have so many benefits from the [GA] program,” Kumar

“I’ve always cared about people and mental health,” she said. “A

both the employee and student perspective.

lot of the work, like my research and my capstone, that I did at

UIC was intertwined with diversity and Asian American mental health. So that’s something I’m really passionate about.”

Kumar felt that the MBA program at Rockford University would

give her the additional skills she sought while also helping boost her confidence in the professional world. “I remember my first MBA class I took. My confidence definitely went up after that.”

said, appreciating especially the chance to see the office from

The GA program also gave Kumar another chance to experience college life after going to school during the COVID pandemic.

“I didn’t really get to have that typical college experience that I

wanted, so coming here…it’s like I had a second chance. Being a GA, I was forced to be involved. I didn’t just go to my night class and go home.”

She recalls that, despite feeling intimidated due to her non-

As a Career Services and First Year Programs GA, Kumar had

comfortable in the tight-knit program.

helped Dr. Minor plan and host department events like etiquette

business background, she slowly started to become more

the opportunity to work on a number of different projects. She

dinners and the career fair, and she also had a big role in training the Reggies, the Regent Experience Guides that help new students acclimate to life on-campus.

Upon graduating with her MBA in 2024, Kumar accepted a

new role as the Assistant Director of Student Involvement and Orientation. Using the skills she gained while studying for her MBA and working in the Career Services office, Kumar now

manages student workers, the Rockford University spirit shop, and the print and mail shop, while also planning and executing Student Life events like the incredibly popular Casino Night, Boujee Bingo, the End of the Year Bash, and much more.

Kumar was named the June 2025 Employee of the Month!

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U N IVE RS IT Y DEVE LOPM E NT

Introducing the College of Professional and Extended Learning W O R D S Stephanie Prchal Communications and Data Specialist

At Rockford University, we believe that personal and professional development

doesn’t stop at graduation. That’s the spirit behind the College of Professional and

Extended Learning (CPEL), launched in early 2024 as a hub for career development, lifelong learning, and community connections.

CPEL is designed to serve learners at every stage of

their journey—from recent graduates looking to build

their resumes, to seasoned professionals seeking new

certifications or skills. With flexible online programming, regional partnerships, and a strong emphasis on career readiness, CPEL offers resources that reflect the real needs of the Rockford region and beyond.

The College focuses on three core areas:

• O nline Learning: Self-paced courses, certificates, and credential programs across a wide range of industries.

• B usiness and Community Partnerships: Events and initiatives that bring together regional leaders and

professionals to build a skilled and resilient local workforce.

• C areer Connections: Internships, mentorships, and

employer connections that help students, alumni, and

community members access real-world opportunities.

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Whether it’s through skill-building courses, internships, or

panels, breakout sessions, and networking opportunities, the

the next step.

and changemakers in the community.

professional networking, CPEL is here to help learners take

summit fosters ongoing dialogue between business leaders

Skills Marketplace

Illinois Youth Investment Program

learning opportunities in high-demand fields such as Business,

Program, CPEL launched a paid internship initiative this

CPEL’s Skills Marketplace offers versatile, fully online

Cybersecurity, AI, Data Science, Project Management, and

Healthcare. These courses are designed for individuals at any

stage of their professional journeys, allowing learners to upskill, reskill, and take charge of their own career growth.

Annual Business Summit

Now in its third year, the Rockford University Business Summit

continues to grow as a key event in the local workforce development landscape. This year’s theme, the “Workforce Ecosystem,” invited

professionals across industries to explore strategies for employee development, workplace culture, and collaboration. Through

Through a $464,450 grant from the Illinois Youth Investment summer for local youth ages 16-24. The program offers career development support and places students in roles connected

to their career aspirations across campus and the community.

With partners like Gigi’s Playhouse, Rosecrance, UW Health, and the Winnebago County Court Services, the initiative reflects a collective effort to invest in the region’s next generation of professionals.

Learn more about all that CPEL has to offer at rockford.edu/ academics/college-of-professional-extended-learning

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A Cornerstone of Regional Economic Growth: Highlights from Rockford University Economic Impact Study W O R D S Elizabeth Nardi ‘20, Chief Strategy and Research Officer

Originally published in the May 2025 edition of The Voice.

Rockford University (RU) plays a major

Rockford University’s Institutional Research

contributing significantly to local businesses,

highlights the university’s extensive influence

role in the region’s economic landscape,

employment, and workforce development

throughout the Rockford Region. The recent

2024 Economic Impact Study, conducted by 10

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team and the Region 1 Planning Council,

on the regional economy, demonstrating

how its operations, student spending, and visitor activity support local prosperity.

A Significant Economic Contributor

The study found that Rockford University generates

Supporting Local Business Through Visitor Spending

benefits. This impact stems from the university’s operational

9,000 visitors annually for athletic competitions, performing

between $78.3 million and $133.5 million in total economic

expenditures, student spending, and visitor expenditures. For every $43.3 million RU directly spends, the regional economy sees an amplified effect, strengthening various sectors across the state line and strengthening partnerships across local industries.

RU also contributes to the local economy by attracting nearly arts, and campus events. These visitors generate $1.31 million in direct spending and up to $1.44 million in total regional

impact, benefiting hotels, restaurants, and retail businesses.

The influx of visitors helps sustain local enterprises and increases demand for services.

A Strong Return on Investment for Students

The Broader Impact

and is still considered one of the best investments an

what would happen if RU were not part of the regional

Higher education remains a key factor in economic mobility individual can make. Rockford University graduates are no different and see substantial financial benefits. The study found that regionally RU alumni earn between 15.3% and

19.1% more over their lifetimes than those with a high school diploma or an associate degree. This translates into an

additional $1.8 million in regional personal income annually per graduating class. These earnings not only improve individual

financial stability but also enhance overall consumer spending power within the local economy, benefiting businesses across various industries.

A Major Employer and Investor

Beyond education, Rockford University is a significant

employer in the region, providing jobs for 282 faculty and

staff members. With a payroll of $11.7 million in the 20232024 academic year, RU directly supports hundreds of

households regionally. Additionally, the university invested

$20.2 million in operations, facilities, and contracts, bolstering local businesses and service providers. These investments demonstrate RU’s ongoing role in supporting regional economic sustainability.

Strengthening the Local Workforce

RU plays a vital role in workforce development, helping local businesses access skilled talent. Approximately 62% of RU

The study also examined a counterfactual scenario showing economy. Without the university, the Rockford region would see an estimated loss of 780 jobs and 814 residents, along

with a $61.7 million decline in GDP. Conversely, an expansion scenario analyzed an increase of RU’s full-time enrollment to 1,500 students could add 106 jobs, 135 residents, and

$10.8 million in GDP, further enhancing economic stability and growth.

A Future of Continued Growth

As Rockford University continues to serve as an

educational leader in the region, its impact reaches far

beyond the classroom. The university’s contributions to workforce development, business investment, and

community enrichment position it as an indispensable asset to the region. Supporting RU’s ongoing growth

is an investment in Rockford’s economic future—one that yields dividends for businesses, residents, and the next generation of professionals.

For businesses, community leaders, and policymakers,

these findings underscore the importance of sustained

collaboration with Rockford University. Our success is deeply intertwined with the prosperity of the region, making it a vital partner in shaping a thriving economic landscape.

graduates remain in the region, contributing to workforce

stability and business growth. The university supports 687 jobs, either directly or indirectly, and has helped retain or

attract 859 residents. Additionally, 38% of RU’s student body comes from outside the four-county area, enhancing the region’s talent pool.

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Imagine

By the

• Tim Coleman

• Pat (O’B) and Dave Lee

• Pete Bouxsein

• Jude Rittenhouse

• Paula Ericson

• Mary Parisoe

• Rich Hoge

• Laurie Wieser

Looking out the windows of the O’Hare/Rockford bus or from the comfort of our parents’

cars, we drove past endless cornfields as we made our way to a college campus many of us

had not ever set foot on, in a city we hadn’t heard of before the first recruitment letter arrived.

The following reflections were submitted by members of the Class

Lennon, “What’s Goin On” by Marvin Gaye, “Ohio” by CSN&Y, “For What

recollections offer a window into the social and political atmosphere

was long.

of 1975 as part of their 50th reunion commemoration. These personal of their time. The perspectives shared are those of the authors and

It’s Worth” by Buffalo Springfield, “Peace Train” by Cat Stevens. The list

do not necessarily reflect the current views, policies, or values of the

Male citizens were required to register for the draft at eighteen.

our alumni’s lived experiences, fostering thoughtful dialogue, and

ended, became subject to the draft lottery. That first fall, the men

university or its administration. We share them in the spirit of honoring preserving the diverse history of our community.

We turned onto that long Rockford College driveway, winding toward

buildings we couldn’t see, never imagining how our lives would change over the next four years! We arrived full of wonder, fear, and a tinge of excitement at being on our own. No matter where we’d come from,

Our classmates received draft cards and, when college deferments gathered in someone’s room or suite, drinking beer at 9 a.m., listening to a radio as their numbers were picked. Friends cheered for high

numbers and groaned at low ones. Some of us already had military siblings or friends serving. We remained fearful until Nixon finally ended the war in March 1973.

we were thrown together (some of us quite literally during Ditch Dig).

During those years, women’s identities changed dramatically. The

Our dreams would be challenged and expanded. We’d develop our

Am Woman,” the publication of Ms magazine, then the monumental

identities, create relationships, explore beliefs, try new activities, enjoy music and parties. Along the way, we’d weave an enduring

tapestry of friendships and become each other’s extended family for the next fifty years.

We entered RC’s microcosm within the large and crazy world of the

early 70’s. Each of us arrived in our own cocoon, in search of our future selves. We felt safe, isolated, not fully developed, but curious, ready

to meet classmates, face challenges, learn to fly. And we turned into some cool butterflies!

As we found our dorms with weird names and letters—Kent Living

Center, New Dorm, Cummings Complex, Dorms A, B, C & D—moved

in clothes and stereos, said goodbye to parents, hello to roommates,

then what? Ah, a wonderful ice breaker, a cold beer or maybe an herbal remedy to ease our transition.

Woman’s Rights Movement grew, aided by Helen Reddy’s anthem “I Roe v. Wade decision in 1973. When it finally became legal in 1974, classmates helped each other navigate getting credit in their own names. More began embracing feminism.

Concerns escalated about population explosion, the environment,

and the right to express one’s sexual orientation. Civil Rights issues seethed. We mistrusted authority and had ringside seats to the

Watergate hearings, carried on live TV, with Nixon resigning August

9th, 1974. As in the wider world, we were socially-politically active on campus, due in part to the distrust many felt in dealings with Dean Volkman and John Howard’s Executive Board. While there were

worthy Forum speakers, like Shirley Chisholm, we abhorred being forced to attend and use punch-cards as proof. Our senior class

went to mandatory post-Forum discussion groups but refused to speak. When a former classmate was banned for stealing toilet paper, we staged a sit-in-protest.

It was hot that August 1971, and our childhood world had changed

On this wild ride of self-discovery, we tried unfamiliar subjects/classes,

voiced in demonstrations, echoed in songs like “Imagine” by John

Child Development, etc. How would we navigate all of this? To

forever. The Vietnam war raged, as did protests. A collective rebellion,

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like Theatre Arts, Humanities, Psychology, Philosophy, Economics,

P H O T O C R E D I T S Jude Rittenhouse

paraphrase John Lennon, we joined together. Some friendships were made in freshman year classes and dorms. Others began at meals,

after uttering that scary line, “Do you mind if I sit here?” Others, with townies, began in classes and segued to hanging out together.

Who can forget their first Humanities class? Fiery Roxie Alexander

made African Genesis come alive. Roger Ramsey provoked intense

discussions. Archetypal-earthmother Eva Walsh encouraged delight.

As we settled into new classes and relationships, a common question was: “Why did you pick Rockford College?” Some didn’t want to be

small fish in a big pond. Many hoped to benefit from smaller classes

where we could develop relationships with professors and classmates who’d know each other.

In classes, we learned each other’s views and began forging deeper

relationships. Dorm life provided more opportunities. We often hung

out in groups outdoors, in someone’s room, or a townie’s apartment.

Remember fondue parties, card games, and water fights? Or when beer was legal on campus, then it wasn’t? Remember rolled-up wet towels at the bottom of the door?

While no one imagined today’s electronic devices, we had stereos.

And we played them—LOUDLY—in our rooms, out into the hallways, sometimes putting the speakers up to our window screens. As the weather warmed, our music amped up. We all benefitted from the

musical tastes of friends. Guarantee we’re still listening to Dylan, Joan Baez, Led Zeppelin, Moody Blues, Traffic, Carole King, Rolling Stones, Joni Mitchell, the Beatles, and many more. Bet our kids are too!

Though a small school, we turned out quality sports teams in the NAIA

Division. No matter the season, crowds gathered for Regent games. We may have partied with cheerleaders, men’s soccer or women’s hockey players, B-ballers or swimmers the night before, but there they were

the next day, kicking ass. Some preferred unstructured hours of frisbee and softball behind Lathrop or intramural games (IM’s).

Many of us enjoyed extracurricular activities like WRCR, Volunteer

Services Board, The Collegian, Ski Club, TANSTAAFL (ask Rutledge), Orchesis, and more at this college of 750 students! Imagine all the

memories we created: trips to Royal Liquors, dinners at Lino’s and the Ground Round, traying, breaking visitation, that first kiss (and other

firsts), October Day, sugar packet fights in the cafeteria, the night Herb Huth thought it would be a great idea, for Halloween dinner, to put baskets of peanuts on the tables!

We arrived as a collection of individuals, much like individual spokes.

Connections shaped us and, by the end, we formed a perfect wheel.

Boy did we roll! During reunion in September, our circle will reunite,

remember, relive and celebrate where we have been. Come join us!

We arrived full of wonder, fear, and a tinge of excitement at being on our own. No matter where we’d come from, we were thrown together (some of us quite literally during Ditch Dig).

Forum Series

WORDS

Kayla Eddy, Marketing Coordinator

Each year, the Forum Series welcomes a diverse line-up of speakers, performers,

and experts in their fields to Rockford University for engaging and educational lectures,

musical performances, panel discussions, and more. During the 2024-2025 school year, students, staff, faculty, and Rockford community members had the opportunity to hear from remarkable figures like NASA scientist Dr. K. Renee Horton, former Senator Russ Feingold, and author and activist Winona LaDuke, to name just a few.

FALL SEMESTER Earth reservation in northern Minnesota. Her latest project

is Winona’s Hemp and Heritage, a farm and nonprofit agency

whose mission is to create an Indigenous women-led economy that is kind to the Earth.

NASA scientist Dr. K. Renee Horton visited campus in October for her lecture entitled, “The Intersection of Talent and

Passion.” Dr. Horton is an advocate for diversity and inclusion

in science, technology, engineering, andmathematics (STEM), and works in the community for STEM education and STEM outreach. She believes in changing the face of STEM and is the founder of Unapologetically Being, Inc., a nonprofit for

advocacy and mentoring in STEM. In her lecture, Dr. Horton explored the intersection of scientific research, life’s struggles, and a career in STEM, focusing on the theme of overDr. K. Renne Horton

coming disability.

To kick-off the 2024-2025 Forum Series in September, as well

Also in October, and in partnership with the International

Jane Addams Center for Civic Engagement, Winona LaDuke–

sented “Design, Luck, and the Rockford Peaches: All Things

as to celebrate the International Day of Peace alongside the Native American activist, economist, and author–gave an

inspiring lecture titled, “Peace With the Earth, the Rights of

Nature and a Green Path Ahead.” LaDuke, founder of the White Earth Land Recovery Project and two-time Green Party run-

ning mate alongside Ralph Nader, lives and works on the White

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Women’s Baseball Center, author Barbara Gregorich pre-

Are Connected.” Gregorich spoke about why she chose to research women baseball players, as well as her findings

on Maud Nelson, Rose Gacioch, and the Rockford Peaches.

Attendees also had the chance to view “Chasing a Dream,” a

historical women’s baseball exhibit curated by John Kovach.

SPRING SEMESTER

Katherine Martinko

Dr. Geraldo Cadava

In collaboration with the Men of Confidence Mentorship

states for a Constitutional Convention and its impact

Scholar Connie Martin to Rockford in February for “Pre-Civil

governments, agriculture, education, and financial and

Program, the Forum Series welcomed Illinois Humanities Road War Quilts: Secret Codes to Freedom on the Underground

Railroad.” Martin shared stories passed down by her greatgrandmother of how her family survived the antebellum

period, and how they used quilts that contained hidden codes

on personal and civil rights, businesses, state and local national security. The event, “America’s Hidden Constitution Dilemma,” is available to watch on the Rockford University YouTube channel.

and secret messages to assist abolitionists

In March, professor and author Dr. Geraldo Cadava, Phi Beta

Underground Railroad.

and the Future of the United States.” Professor Cadava is a

to guide enslaved people to freedom through the

Following the 2024 Charter Day Convocation Ceremony in February, where Rockford University celebrated its 178th birthday, the Northside Brass Quintet gave a beautiful

performance featuring selections from West Side Story

and several pieces by Wilhelm Maurer. Founded in 2014 by

Kappa Visiting Scholar, gave a lecture on “Latino History

Contributing Writer for The New Yorker and the author of The Hispanic Republican: The Shaping of An American Political Identity, from Nixon to Trump (Ecco, 2020) and Standing

On Common Ground: The Making of a Sunbelt Borderland (Harvard, 2013).

DePaul School of Music alumnus Ryan Hobbs, the Northside

To close-out a year of exciting, informative Forum Series

for creating unforgettable musical experiences driven by a

in April for “Digital Minimalist Parenting.” In her talk, she

Brass Quintet combines world-class talent with a passion

passion to explore and express the depths of musical artistry.

Also in February, President of the American Constitution

Society and former Senator Russ Feingold joined panelists

events, writer Katherine Martinko visited Rockford University discussed how to limit screen time using a “digital minimalist”

philosophy that is not anti-tech, but full of practical strategies for putting digital media in its rightful place.

for a discussion about his 2022 book, The Constitution

All Forum events are free and open to the public.

Fundamental Law, as well as the imminent call by various

information about the 2025-2026 Forum Series Line-Up.

in Jeopardy: An Unprecedented Effort to Rewrite Our

Keep an eye on rockford.edu/artslectures/forum/ for

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Legacy of Love: The Story of Kelli Ritschel Boehle ‘84 W O R D S Stephanie Prchal Communications and Data Specialist

“Love life and everything in it. Take nothing for granted.”

For 1984 alumna Kelli Ritschel Boehle, those words from her son, Nik, are more than just a motto—they’re part of a promise she made before he passed in 2012.

The night before he died, Nik asked his mom to help his friend

sons play on the hillside. The bench’s plaque caught her

wish of their own. They had all aged out of the Make-A-Wish

a mentor who had once helped her believe she could finish

Nate—and other young adults with cancer—experience a

program, and Nik wanted to make sure that their wishes were granted, too. Kelli made a promise that night, and she kept it.

eye—it was dedicated to the late Professor Mary Jefferson, her degree.

“ It was the love of family and friends that helped me deliver on that promise,” she says.

It was a quiet, full-circle moment: one chapter closing, and

scholarship. Among many options, she chose this campus

and out—then repeat. The power of love that surrounded

Kelli first arrived at Rockford College in 1982 on an honors because it felt like home—small, scenic, and full of people

who cared. It’s that sense of care that would remain a quiet thread running through her life.

After stepping back from college to raise a family and build a business, Kelli found herself facing a season of profound

change: she sold everything, moved back in with her mother,

and re-enrolled at Rockford College. Completing 22 credits in

a single year, she finished her degree—an achievement made possible not just through resilience, but through love.

A few years later at her MBA graduation, Kelli found herself sitting on a bench outside of Fisher Chapel, watching her 16

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another about to begin.

“When Nik died,” Kelli reflected, “There were days when the biggest accomplishment I could achieve was to breathe in me got me through those months and helped me keep my promise to Nik.”

That promise became Nik’s Wish—a nonprofit dedicated

to granting wishes for young adults, ages 18 to 24, fighting

cancer. Since its founding, the organization has helped fill a long-overlooked gap between childhood and adulthood—

granting everything from trips to Hawaii to the joy of owning a Corgi puppy.

“I started Nik’s Wish because Nik asked me. Now I continue Nik’s Wish because I better understand WHY he asked me.

With each wish we deliver, I understand what he recognized.

Nik’s Homerun 2022

Cancer is more than a physical fight, and having something

At every point in Kelli’s journey—as a student, a mother,

to flourish. You see, cancer can never kill love, no matter what.”

steady, warm, and expressed through every effort. Whether

as special and unique like a wish creates the space for love

From organizing early fundraisers to watching wish deliveries unfold, Kelli credits the people around her—her family,

volunteers, and the Nik’s Wish community—for helping keep that promise alive.

and a nonprofit leader—the common thread has been love: it came from a professor’s encouragement, her family’s

support, or a community rallying behind a young adult’s wish, love is what carries Kelli, and all of us, forward—in the past, present, and future.

Jack’s Joy

Fighting Ewing Sarcoma, Jack reminded Kelli of Nik—full of energy and a love for life. He would frequently volunteer at Nik’s Wish fundraisers, determined to help in spite of the

physical challenges. Kelli recalls that even when he could barely walk, he was volunteering

at the BMO to sell hot dogs at an Ice Hogs game. Afterwards, he came to Kelli with leftover hot dogs tucked in his arms and asking, “Mrs. Ritschel, look what they gave me. Do you want one?”

Joe’s Magic

Joe, from Alabama, wished to go to the Kentucky Derby—but more than that, he wished to work for Nik’s Wish. Even as his condition worsened, Joe became the “Alabama Wish

Angel,” raising over $30,000 and speaking at fundraisers for Nik’s Wish. The Foundation

was contacted shortly after Joe’s passing by the University of Alabama—informing Nik’s

Wish that they were going to start the very first Nik’s Wish Chapter on campus. “Even from heaven,” Kelli said, “Joe continues to work his magic.”

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COM M U N IT Y S POTLIG HT

Board Member Chris Samuelson ‘97/’13 and Executive Director Ann Wasser

Alumni in Action at Severson Dells W O R D S Kayla Eddy, Marketing Coordinator

At Rockford University, we promise to “prepare students for fulfilling lives, careers, and participation in a modern and changing global society.” Our alums have gone on to create meaningful impact in their personal lives, their careers, and in the world around them, especially right here in the Rockford community.

The Severson Dells Nature Center was founded in 1976,

Chris Samuelson ‘97/’13, President of the Severson Dells

Bell Severson. Since then, Severson Dells has become

chemistry before returning to earn his Master of Business

following the donation of 369 acres of land by Fannie

a pillar of conservation and appreciation of nature in the Rockford community.

Five Rockford University alumni currently sit on the board of Severson Dells: Chris Samuelson ‘97/’13, Dan Kasten

Nature Center Board, graduated first with a degree in

Administration in 2013, making him both a graduate of

Rockford College and Rockford University. Samuelson

began his tenure on the board six years ago with the goal of becoming more involved in his community.

‘78, Mark Samuelson ‘05/’10, Michelle Borgialli ‘09/’13,

He spoke fondly of his time in Rockford University’s MBA

board, these alumni have truly embodied the mission of

classes in person. “What I loved about the MBA program

and Jessie Madl ‘07/’08. Throughout their tenure on the Rockford University, making a difference both in their community and the land their community resides on.

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program, especially about how much he enjoyed taking

at Rockford was that it was in-person, and I really got to build out my network, connect with people.”

P H O T O C R E D I T S Zach Reidenbach, 816 Aerial Solutions

Left Elliot Golf Course and Manning Creek

needed to make a Rockford University show happen, Kasten “became very appreciative of community service and the impact it had.”

Kasten urges students and recent graduates who want to

engage in community service to “find a cause that you are passionate about.” He highlighted the many opportunities

that Severson Dells has for the community to get involved,

including helping with field trips and educational events, or Board Treasurer Jessie Madl ‘07/’08

Chris said that leveraging the networks and relationships he

forged both in the MBA program and the professional world is

a huge benefit to his work on the Severson Dells board. “If you think of everyone that’s on our board, they’re all bringing their networks into our board meeting that we have every month.”

A Performing Arts graduate, Dan Kasten ‘78, credits his love of

the outdoors for his inspiration to join the Severson Dells board.

“I grew up in rural Stephenson County and spent my summer days exploring the woods and nearby Yellow Creek. When I was asked to consider joining the board, I jumped at the chance,”

he said. After spending considerable time working in Maddox

Theatre’s scene shop and seeing how many volunteers were

taking part in restoration projects and removing invasive species from the area.

As long as I can remember, I’ve always been a play-outside-kid.

I’ve always loved the outdoors,” “

said Mark Samuelson ‘05/’10. As he grew professionally in his career and found himself in front of a computer more often

for work, he knew he had to get back outside. “I always have that pull back to nature.” He sees his position on the board

as a way to utilize his academic and professional experience

while still connecting with his love of nature and supporting his community.

Recently, Severson Dells acquired 168 acres on the

former Elliot Golf Course, with plans to restore the land and

increase their nature education offerings. Chris Samuelson emphasized how the project will make Severson Dells

accessible to many more people, with the land conveniently located near I-90. “The location couldn’t be better,” he said.

Kasten said Severson Dells is “in the process of restoring [the land] to native habitat,” and that the goal is to “expand nature education opportunities for the community while improving the environmental health of Northern Illinois.”

Rockford University alumni continue to make an incredible impact on the local community. From Jane Addams

establishing Hull House in Chicago in 1889, to this group of alumni serving on the Severson Dells board and helping to preserve the land this community resides on in 2025, it is

easy to say that our alumni are building a legacy of community involvement and love for the people and land around them.

Left Bryce Messer and Board Member Dan Kasten ‘78 R O C K F O R D U N I V E R S I T Y • C at al y st

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ALU M N I H IG H LIG HT

Student, Athlete, Entrepreneur: Mateo Fernandez Solari ‘24 W O R D S Kayla Eddy, Marketing Coordinator

Ask anyone on campus, and they probably recognize the name Mateo Fernandez Solari.

Initially coming to Rockford University from Argentina

You can find Solari at just about every on-campus event, it seems.

stuck around and branched out; he is now pursuing his Master of

an international student to connect with people from all over the

to pursue his undergraduate degree and play basketball, Solari

Business Administration while working as a Graduate Assistant in the Office of Global Affairs, helping coach men’s basketball, and running several businesses.

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“I think Rockford [University] has a great environment for me as place,” Solari said. “I’m a sociable person, and I love to connect

with others and make experiences along the way. I just decided to come to every single event that I could.”

“ I feel like we have such diversity among the professors that you can more or less connect with all of them as long as you’re interested in what they teach.”

Solari is the CEO of Showtime Highlights and Peak Health

Nutrition, as well as a sports agency in Argentina that helps

athletes find the perfect university for them in the United States.

Solari is a self-taught graphic designer and has been creating

athletic highlights for recruiting purposes. At Showtime Highlights, he’s been working with American and transfer athletes, as well as

professional and high school players. He also creates commitment graphics for athletes to share when they’ve committed to a

university and graphics to announce record-breaking athletic achievements.

The International Food Festival is Solari’s favorite event to

Peak Health Nutrition is the product of one of Solari’s business

Food Festival was historical events, so Solari and his friends

Karlberg and Luis Romero, Solari and fellow MBA student Javier

mate that he shared at the Argentina table, Solari helped prepare

“We took care of everything,” Solari said, referencing the work he

participate in as a student. The theme of the 2025 International

classes here at Rockford University. Aided by Professors Jeffrey

celebrated Argentina’s World Cup wins. Alongside the alfajores and

Palacios initially created the business concept as a class project.

more than 500 empanadas for the dinner portion of the festival.

and Palacios had to do for the class. “Labels, marketing, the website,

Solari admits that it can be difficult to balance his school, work, and

real business.”

my best to plan ahead to save time…I try to always be as organized

Solari’s final comment about Rockford University is this: “It was

help, and that he always tries to find some time in his schedule to

such a big support system not only for me, but for all international

extracurriculars, but he always finds ways to manage his time. “I try

everything. And I was like, we might as well try and actually make it a

as I can be.” He says that using a weekly or monthly planner is a big

literally a home away from home. Rockford University created

just relax.

students.”

Mateo Fernandez Solari’s Tips for Student Entrepreneurs

• Take the risk. Being an entrepreneur is not easy, but the risk/reward is high.

• Be ready for late nights, early mornings, and failures. Things aren’t going to happen overnight. You have to be okay with failure, with getting back up when you get

knocked down because every time you fail, you’re one step closer to getting it done.

• Have a good team. You might move faster on your own, but you need to surround yourself with people smarter than you, with a support system.

• Keep an open mind and never stop learning.

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REG E NTS ATH LETIC S

History In The Making W O R D S Kayla Eddy, Marketing Coordinator

This year, our historic, first-in-the-state Women’s Flag Football team made history again when they competed in–and won–the first ever women’s collegiate flag football game in the state of Illinois.

“The team shut out Benedictine University 32-0 on a

said President Lynott. “As trailblazers in collegiate flag

hosted by the Chicago Bears, the Regents were dominant

sport in Illinois and beyond.”

historic evening on March 8th at Halas Hall. In a game

from start to finish: Rockford scored in every quarter and

football, our team is paving the way for the future of the

held Benedictine to just 119 yards of total offense.

It’s not an exaggeration to say that these athletes are

Quarterback Jennah Grice threw five touchdowns,

premiered on Eyewitness News on March 11, Head Coach

including the first collegiate women’s flag football

touchdown in the state of Illinois, when she found Clare

Strong in the end zone and put Rockford out in front 6-0

late in the first quarter. The Regents tacked on two more touchdowns in the second, one in the third, and one in

trailblazers both on and off the field. In an interview that Tim Trevier and freshman wide receiver/defensive back Tiondra Henry emphasized the importance not only of excellence on the field, but in the classroom and the community as well.

the fourth to take a commanding lead. The defense then

Not only are they excelling in the classroom–Trevier went

with 26 seconds left in the fourth quarter, as Rockford

in the community as well.

secured the shutout when Ava Divis intercepted a pass

went on to win by a final score of 32-0. Read the full recap at rockfordregents.com.”

Brian Vanden Acker ‘08/’11, Assistant Director of Athletics-Athletic Communications and Finance

“This moment is more than just a win on the scoreboard— it’s a testament to the pioneering spirit of our student-

athletes and the unwavering support of our coaches, staff, and the entire Rockford University community,” 22

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on to praise the team’s mid-term grades–they’re excelling

“Academics first, then flag football,” Trevier said. “They understand the importance of their academics.”

Tiondra Henry discussed how exciting it is to be first.

“Being able to coach the first middle school team…being

“ As trailblazers in collegiate flag football, our team is paving the way for the future of the sport in Illinois and beyond.”

– President Lynott

able to be a coach and a recruiter there…I just love being able to set an example for younger girls.” Henry said it’s incredibly powerful to be able to influence the next generation, talking about how exciting it was to see the same middle school

students she coached cheering for her on the sideline at Halas Hall.

After their historic win at Halas Hall, the Rockford Regents played three games at home in the Rumble in Rockford–

hosted at Sportscore Two in Loves Park–before heading off

to Kentucky; Michigan; Alabama; Lisle, Illinois; and Wisconsin, and playing their final game at home on Sam Greeley field to end their inaugural season.

This is only the beginning for the history-making Women’s Flag Football team at Rockford University.

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REG E NT ATH LETIC S

Game On: RU Breaks Ground On New Turf W O R D S Stephanie Prchal, Communications and Data Specialist

Rockford University has officially broken ground and begun construction on its new football and soccer field, kicking off a long-anticipated transformation into a multipurpose turf facility.

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President Lynott and VP for Advancement Katherine Trotter speak to Sunil Puri ‘82/’13H

Rockford Mayor Tom McNamara

The project is part of RU’s ongoing investment in student

evolve. In just the past year, RU has added a track program

the new turf will provide a more sustainable playing surface

Flag Football. At a time when many institutions are scaling

life, athletics, and community connection. Once complete,

for football and soccer, allow for more flexible practice and event scheduling, and expand how the space can serve both campus and the surrounding region.

This project is made possible through the State of Illinois’s Independent Colleges Capital Investment Grant—the

same grant that helped fund the construction of RU’s new baseball and softball fields. Leading the construction is

Byrne & Jones Sports Construction, a nationally recognized firm known for building high-quality athletic spaces that

and became the first college in Illinois to introduce Women’s back, RU is building forward—investing in infrastructure

that enhances the student experience and supports longterm campus vitality.

The impact of this project will extend well beyond the field and game day. With year-round usability, the revitalized space opens the door for more practices, games, and campus events—creating new opportunities to bring students, families, alumni, and the broader Rockford community together.

serve athletes and their communities for years to come.

This summer’s groundbreaking represents the forward

For Rockford University, this upgrade marks another step in

energy on campus for years to come.

supporting an athletics program that continues to grow and

momentum of RU’s future—furthering connection and

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GALA 2 025

Rockford University’s 2025 fundraising gala, held

dream,” shared with the guests. “The opportunity I received

Opportunity Fund, which provides financial support for

great friends and classmates from Rockford University,

on February 8, raised over $44,000 for the Student

curricular and co-curricular activities or projects with an academic component.

At the gala, held in the Clark Arts Center, attendees heard

meaningful stories from faculty and students who used the

Student Opportunity Fund. Dr. James Marshall, Professor of Biology, shared how he used funds to take students to the

Lyric Opera, museums and zoos in Chicago and Milwaukee, and to Montana and Utah to dig for dinosaur bones.

Karina Campos Alva gave an emotionally moving recap of her experience traveling to Cuba with Dr. Yoandy Cabrera

to travel to Cuba next to Dr. Yoandy Cabrera Ortega and was a blessing.”

Performing Arts students utilized the Student Opportunity Fund to help fund their Summer 2024 trip to Edinburgh,

Scotland, where they performed The Theory of Relativity at

the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, the largest arts festival in the

world. “Getting to perform at the Fringe has been one of the

coolest experiences I could have imagined. The experiences I have had while I’ve been here will be ones I will never forget, and I’m so grateful I was able to come. And I can’t wait to come back,” said Caitlin Dennis, BFA.

Ortega and her fellow students. “If you would have told

In addition, students benefited from the fund for a Summer 2024

become a reality, and during that time she would practice

Ortega’s Colonial Research and Study Abroad and US Latinx

little Karina that her dream to travel the world would have her future teaching skills as well as her translating skills,

she’d probably tell you that such a thing was just another

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trip to Cuba, offered in conjunction with Dr. Yoandy Cabrera

Tragedy and Migrations courses.. While in Cuba, students had the chance to explore Havana, Camagüey, and Matanzas.

“If I could describe my study abroad trip to Cuba in one word, it would be eye-opening. The moments I witnessed made me change my perspective on the way I view and treat life,” said Denise Hernandez-Ortega, Education Pathway student.

For More Information

If you are interested in supporting the Student

Opportunity Fund, please scan the QR code or visit rockford.edu/academics/student-opportunity-fund

Regents First: Celebrating Our First Graduating Cohort W O R D S Stephanie Prchal, Communications and Data Specialist

In 2021, Rockford University launched the Regents First

The Regents First program is built around four key pillars:

those who are the first in their families to attend college. At

development, and financial aid. From the very beginning—

program to support and empower first-generation students— RU, over half of our students are first-generation, and Regents First was created to serve a crucial part of that population by

offering additional, hands-on support to help these students reach graduation.

Created by Dr. Karen Walker, now Dean of Student Support

Programming at RU, the program recognizes that, while these students bring incredible strength and ambition, they often

social and emotional wellness, academic coaching, career

starting with a retreat that lays the groundwork for a sense of community and belonging—students are surrounded

by people who believe in them. Through peer mentorship, dedicated staff support, and access to a range of

opportunities from internships to service trips, the program creates an environment where students can stay grounded and grow with purpose.

face unique challenges on their path to a college degree.

Now, in 2025, RU is proud to celebrate the first graduating

challenges alone.

years in the making, and a testament to what community

Regents First makes sure that they don’t have to face those

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cohort of Regents First students—an achievement four

and support can make possible. The initial cohort welcomed 10 students in 2021, all of whom proudly crossed the stage at graduation this summer. Since then, the program has

“This has been my first experience of being in a new community with new folks, coming with no expectations,” shared Jacob Johnson, a member of the 2022 cohort.

“I have been met with kindness and hospitality and am truly blessed to have discovered Regents First.”

expanded significantly, doubling in size each year. In 2023

alone, 24 new students joined the Regents First community.

To date, the program has served over 70 students, with the

capacity to support up to 90 students as it continues to grow.

Regents First continues to welcome new students every year

From nursing to education and beyond, these students did

own story, shaped by both challenge and vision. And as they

more than just earn degrees—they fulfilled dreams that began long before they came to RU. Their families, many of whom never had the chance to attend college themselves, now

in the summer and fall. Each student brings with them their step into their futures, they remind us that when success comes to one of us, it comes to us all.

watch with pride as the next generation leads the way.

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Class notes ‘60S

Curt McKay ‘67

Brent Johnson ‘74

Remember category for Rockford’s second annual

company from a piece of paper, offering repair and

Curt McKay ‘67 was named a Grand Marshal in the

LGBTQ+ Pride Parade, held on June 7. His nomination was based on his work with the LGBTQ+ student,

faculty, and staff community at the University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign, where he was the first full-

time director of the LGBTQ+ Resource Center for the campus.

Margaret Scott ‘68

In December 1989, Brent Johnson ‘74 started a

manufacturing services to the aerospace industry.

On June 5th, 2025, the company celebrated the 35th anniversary of the first items that came to its facility

for repair. Over the years, the company has grown via

license agreements with major manufacturers as well as two lucrative acquisitions. Johnson feels the education he received really helped in his career.

Margaret Ann Gethers Scott ‘68 (Ph.D. Florida State

Mary Parisoe ‘75

years in education and librarianship. She is a family

Chicago for their 2024 - 2025 season, which has just

University ‘95) retired in 2012 after serving 39 1/2 historian and author of two books: I Come from

Bowman Lane: A Family History Memoir and Mother Dear: The Life and Times of Nettie Mariah Ford

Gethers. Bowing to her South Carolina Lowcountry

heritage, Dr. Scott is working on a third book, RICE: The Forgotten Cash Crop and the Gullah Geechee People Who Made It Grow. Dr. Scott lives in South Carolina

maternal great-grandparents. Visit her online at www. familyhistoryplace.com.

‘70S

Gene Johnson ‘71

After more than 40 years in higher education, Gene Johnson ‘71 has retired as Professor Emeritus

from Central Washington University where he was a

Professor of Psychology and Director of the School

concluded. Playground-Chicago is part of a national

playwriting network which competes in writing short

plays. One of her short plays was chosen as Audience Favorite in the March competition. For the upcoming

year, she’ll be turning her attention to a full-length play set in WW2 and hopes to have a staged reading of it this autumn.

Ileta A. Sumner ‘87

Ileta A. Sumner, Esq., J.D. (1990), received a “Star of the Bar” award from the State Bar of Texas for

an article from the May – June 2023 issue of San

Antonio Lawyer, the magazine of the San Antonio Bar Association titled “Bocas Cerradas -- ¡No Mas! – The Reemergence of Emmett Till.”

Psychology Training Program. He now spends his

Tim Anderson ‘87

and relaxing.

Kishwaukee College as Associate Professor of

time between Washington State and Florida traveling

Tim Anderson ‘87 announced his retirement from Philosophy. He plans to continue as Music Director at the Unitarian Universalist Church in Rockford, and he

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‘80S

on ancestral land acquired by her formerly enslaved

Mary Parisoe was accepted into Playground-

will be returning to Rockford University in the fall after

He was named the 2025 Volunteer of the Year by

looks forward to having more time to take on freelance

graduated from Leadership Rockford this year and

many years to teach the occasional Spanish class. He work in music and theatre.

will serve as a Leadership Rockford Moderator for the 2025-2026 class.

Current Illinois residents Kristine Schaefer-Frank

Andie Bent ‘18/’20

Schaefer-Burkel (attended 1993- 1995) and son

President, was awarded the 2025 Impact Award

‘97 and son Caelan, along with her sister Toni Lynn Xander, visited the amazing Big Island Hawaii in the

summer of 2024 to spend time with Darlene Richard ‘97, her husband Don, and Stephanie Landers ‘97!

‘00S

Mirka Kim ‘02

Andie Bent ‘18/’20, Alumni Association Board

by Geronimo Hospitality Group. The Impact Award

celebrates an individual who exemplifies the power of positive influence and can consistently Make an Impression.

Author and illustrator Mirka Hokkanen is publishing

Marianna Ruggerio ‘20

already received a starred review from the School

Marianna Ruggerio the 2023 science awardee of

two new picture books this fall. One of them has Library Journal. Launch dates are scheduled for

August 4th for Forest Feels: Sensory Play Nature’s

Way and September 2nd for Little Seasons: Autumn

Leaves. Find out more on her website at mirkah.com

‘10S

Kerstin Grey ‘03/’11

Kerstin Grey ‘03/’11 accepted a position as a Pursuit Manager for Dewberry.

On January 13, 2025, the White House named

the Presidential Award for Excellence in Math and

Science Teaching (PAEMST). The PAEMST program, administered by the National Science Foundation

(NSF) on behalf of the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy, recognizes outstanding

teachers for their contributions to the teaching and learning of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

Kaleb Price ‘15

Danica Keeton ‘22

Chamber of Commerce Ambassador, on the Noah’s

Secretary, was appointed the new Director of

Kaleb Price ‘15 has served as a Greater Rockford

Ark Fundraising Committee, on the Woodstock Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors as the

Director of the Ambassador Committee and Young Professionals Committee, and on the Algonquin/

‘20S

‘90S

Kristine Frank ‘97

the Woodstock Area Chamber of Commerce. He

Danica Keeton ‘22, Alumni Association Board

Development at the Rockford Family Peace Center (FPC), which provides critical services to domestic violence survivors and their children.

Lake in the Hills Chamber of Commerce Board of

Directors and Director of Ambassador Committee.

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31

Faculty Notes Dr. Kyle Stedman, Professor and Chair of the Department

and Actions in OD: Voice of the Consultants” with a group of

Uncertainty in Family Archival Research” in The Journal

Committee, Explaining Variability in Performance Outcomes

of English, published “Digging in the Dirt: Experience and

of Multimodal Rhetorics. At the April 2025 Conference on

College Composition and Communication, Dr. Stedman co-

led a workshop called “An Afternoon of Community Building

colleagues. She also served on a student’s Ph.D. Dissertation of Artificial Intelligence Applications Using Actor-Network Theory, Benedictine University, 2024.

through Audio Storytelling.”

Dr. Yoandy Cabrera Ortega, Assistant Professor of Spanish

Dr. Emily Webb, Assistant Professor of Biology, co-authored

Philosophy, Religion, and Cultures, was named the new

an article titled “Broadening Perspectives Activities Improve both LGBTQ+ Student Experiences and Religious Students’ Content Comprehension” that was published in CBE– Life Sciences Education as part of a special issue on Equity,

and Classics and Chair of the Department of Languages, president of the Illinois Classical Conference. Dr. Ortega

also co-edited an anthology of Cuban plays based on Greek

myths, The Electra Door: Cuban Rewritings of Greek Tragedy.

Inclusion, Access and Justice.

Dr. Ron Lee, Associate Professor of Political Science;

Dr. Mehmet Dik, Professor of Mathematics and Chair of

and Criminal Justice; and Director of the First Year Seminar

the Department of Mathematics, Computer Science, and Physics, served as a Scientific Committee member at

the International Conference on Nonlinear Analysis and Computational Techniques and reviewed four research

papers submitted to international journals. Dr. Dik also gave

an invited talk, “Beyond the Monotonic Sequence Theorem,” at the Beloit College Math Colloquium. Additional writings include: “How Analysis Can Teach Us the Optimal Way to

Chair of the Department of Political Science, Sociology,

Program, was invited by the Rotary Club of Rockford to speak at their November meeting about the results of the 2024

presidential and congressional elections. Dr. Lee also chaired a panel discussion at Rockford University with former US

Senator from Wisconsin Russ Feingold about his book The

Constitution in Jeopardy: An Unprecedented Effort to Rewrite Our Fundamental Law.

Design Neural Operators,” “A Mathematical Analysis of Neural

Marissa Barnathan, Assistant Professor of Musical

Under Non-Uniform Scaling,” and “Topology-Preserving

Alliance Journal (MTEA) entitled “Miss You Like Hell: Exploring

Operator Behaviors,” “The Stability of Persistence Diagrams Scaling in Data Augmentation.” He also completed a PhD

thesis evaluation, Exploring the Complexities of PredatorPrey Interactions: Effects of Fear, Toxicants and Delayed Responses, Indian Institute of Engineering Science and Technology, India, February 2025.

Dr. Donna Ogle, Assistant Professor of Computer Science, co-presented “Futurescape Consulting: Navigating

Innovation with AI Expertise in Management Consulting

Approaches” at the 87th Academy of Management Meeting Innovating for the Future: Policy, Purpose, and Organizations, in Chicago. At the Midwest Academy of Management

Conference in Moorhead, MN, Dr. Ogle presented “Ideas 32

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Theatre, published an article in Musical Theatre Educators the Impacts of Socially Conscious Musical Theatre on Audience Attitudes.”

Dr. Ahmed El Ouadrhiri, Assistant Professor of Computer Science, became certified as an Ethical Hacker Pro. He also published, in collaboration with 3 other authors, a

conference paper entitled “Advancements in Federated

Learning: An Analysis Study of Federated Optimization in

Heterogeneous Networks” at the International Conference on Advanced Intelligent Systems for Sustainable

Development. Additional writings include: “Towards Secure

and Private Smart Contracts in Ethereum: SafeSC ChatGPTbased Tool in Action.”

Dr. Filiz Dik Professor of Mathematics and Dean of the

History and International Studies (HAIS), gave a pre-opening

Marion L. Bates Faculty Enrichment Grants Committee.

the Moon Dog Theatre’s production of A Doll’s House, Part 2

College of Science, Math, and Nursing served on CFNIL’s

Tammy Schiek, Associate Professor of Kinesiology, presented “Give Me a Break: Creating a Kinesthetic Classroom Climate” at the IARSS Raising Student

Achievement (RSAC) Conference in Oak Brook, IL. Dr. Cathy Headley, Associate Professor of Kinesiology,

completed the Women in Leadership: Develop Strategies and Interpersonal Skills for Greater Success Certificate.

Dr. Headley also reviewed the Handbook of Sport and

International Development and published the review in the International Journal of Sport Communication.

Dr. Michael Perry, Professor of English, published a chapter

in Theorizing Stephen King titled “Choosing to See: Gardening It within The Upside Down without a Cord.”

Dr. Jennifer Rea (Assistant Professor of English and Director of the Gender Studies Program), Professor Jennifer

Jenkins (Lecturer, English Department), Dr. Michael Perry,

and (former Rockford University employee) Andrew Johnson

night lecture on late-19th century women’s rights preceding

staged at Midway Village Museum’s Red Barn in the Victorian Village.

Dr. Terri J. Easter, Assistant Professor of Education,

presented her paper entitled “The Future Is Now: Preparing

Preservice Teachers through Educational Technology” at the National Social Science Association, and her paper entitled

“Scaffolding Success: Using AI to Differentiate Instruction for

ELLs in Rural Classrooms” at the Rural Education Conference.

Dr. Kristin Ravel, Assistant Professor of English, led the

Rockford University Student Voices Reading at Maze Books, allowing students enrolled in Creative Writing Poetry to read their poems before an audience for the first time.

Dr. Mallori Sage, Assistant Professor of Education, defended

her dissertation at the University of Northern Colorado. It is

titled “Nurturing Students: A Qualitative Case Study Analyzing the Perceived Impact of Tiered Mental Health Support for Elementary Students.”

presented a panel at the National Popular Culture and

Dr. Jacob Hardesty, Associate Professor of Education

Library: Four Colleagues, the Birth of a Writer’s Group,

Education, was featured on the WNIJ podcast Teachers’

American Culture conference titled “Lock Down in the and Prioritizing Writing.”

Dr. Joel Lynch, Professor of Psychology and Chair of the Department of Psychology, completed his 7th year as

and Dean of the College of Social Science, Commerce, and Lounge to discuss the influences of popular music in schools in the 1920s in an episode titled “The Jazz Problem: How Schools Fueled the First Modern Moral Panic.”

Associate Editor at the journal Psychological Reports.

Dr. Karen Walker, Dean of Student Support Programming,

Drs. Filiz and Mehmet Dik shared their contributions to the

Access (NPEA) conference held in Philadelphia, PA. Dr. Walker

scientific, local, and global community at a breakfast meeting for Turkish American Scientists and Educators at the Turkish Consulate General in Chicago in February.

attended the April 2025 National Partnership for Educational served as a panel discussion member in a session titled “Go

Together, Go Further: Partnering on Strong Career Outcomes for Students.”

Dr. Catherine Forslund, Isabel Ross Abbott Professor of

History and Women’s Studies and Chair of the Department of R O C K F O R D U N I V E R S I T Y • C at al y st

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December Recognition Ceremony The 2024 December Recognition celebration was held on Saturday, December 7, 2024 in Maddox Theatre, located in the Clark Arts Center on Rockford University’s campus.

Students, staff, faculty, family, and friends came together to honor the hard work and achievement of the December graduates.

Dr. William Gahan, Professor of English, gave the keynote address. President Lynott

and Chair of the Board of Trustees, Marci Taets, also spoke and wished the graduates well. Before the December Recognition event, nursing students celebrated their completion of the nursing program in a special pinning ceremony.

171st Commencement Ceremony On Saturday, May 10, 2025, Rockford University held its 171st Commencement ceremony at the Coronado Performing Arts Center.

Judge Joyce Williams Warren delivered the keynote address. Judge Warren is a retired

judge for the Sixth Judicial District in Arkansas. She attended both Rockford College and the University of Arkansas at Little Rock (UALR), where she received a BA in sociology

and anthropology in 1971. When she was only 11 years old, Judge Warren and nine other Black students were the first to integrate West Side Junior High School in Little Rock,

AR. Judge Warren went on to be the first Black female graduate of the William H. Bowen School of Law and Arkansas’ first Black female judge.

She began her career as a clerk at the Arkansas Supreme Court in 1977. She went on to serve in the Arkansas government in a variety of positions, and for a time was in private practice. In 1990 she was elected as a judge to the Sixth Circuit of Arkansas, where she

served until 2020. In 2023 Warren was inducted into the Arkansas Women’s Hall of Fame.

In Memoriam Kathleen Antonietti ‘71, November 2, 2019

Shanin Solt ‘98, November 19, 2024

Mary Saucier ‘43, October 16, 2021

June Kannowski Eschmann ‘54, November 30, 2024

Marilyn Schweigert Fischer ‘54, September 29, 2021 Virginia “Ginny” Johansen ‘75, December 4, 2023 Robert LeVasseur ‘65, April 20, 2024 Ernest Troutman ‘71, April 29, 2024

Margaret Dymond Laubach ‘51, July 1, 2024

Marissa Walton Banovz ‘04, November 20, 2024

Barbara “Robin” Farrell Oleck ‘69, December 1, 2024 Cynthia “Cyncie” Feldman ‘50, December 4, 2024 Jean Cacci Harezlak ‘72, December 5, 2024

Karin Eklund Kullberg ‘90, December 8, 2024

Rosalie “Rosy” DeWall Park ‘60, July 21, 2024

Lisa Palmeno ‘87, December 13, 2024

Karen Haberstroh Schuetz ‘86, July 27, 2024

John Happ ‘66, December 23, 2024

Carol Nelson Chambers ‘99, July 24, 2023

Joan Danforth Johansen ‘50, July 29, 2024

Dorothy Lee White Erickson ‘52, August 2, 2024 Fred Schon ‘60, August 3, 2024

Leonard “Len” French ‘69, August 4, 2024

Miriam Anderson Ring ‘48, August 15, 2024 Larry Wilkins ‘62, August 16, 2024

M. Joanne “Jo” Yust Linderoth ‘79, August 22, 2024 Marcia Hammar Blassage ‘68, August 24, 2024 Richard Wintercorn ‘57, August 29, 2024 Philip Bellini ‘74, September 1, 2024

Eric Hawkins ‘64, September 9, 2024

Eleanor McCue Mielke ‘62, September 9, 2024 Judith Moyer Lundin ‘47, September 9, 2024 Lucy Mitchell ‘57, September 17, 2024

Carolyn Cutler Smith ‘72, September 24, 2024

James “Jim” Reynolds ‘95, September 27, 2024 Susan Lewis Saxe ‘03, September 28, 2024

Dorothy “Dottie” Busacker Westcott ‘64, October 3, 2024

Kay Smyser Loftus ‘80, December 15, 2024 George Egan ‘61, December 26, 2024

Richard Toppe ‘82, December 31, 2024 James McGee ‘71, January 2, 2025

Jean Secard Dunlap ‘53, January 2, 2025

Helen Hondros Kostidakis ‘60, January 8, 2025 Jill Potter Scott ‘93, January 12, 2025

Dorothy McKnight Fredenburg ‘46, January 13, 2025 Lawrence “Larry” Henbest ‘62, January 22, 2025 Rebecca “Becky” Nelson ‘16, January 26, 2025

Cynthia Stroschin Jones ‘71, February 15, 2025 Mary Blunck Meiners ‘78, February 21, 2025 Michael Parrott Sr. ‘82, March 5, 2025

Kenneth Ralston Patchen ‘68, March 6, 2025 Terry Carlson ‘92/‘96, March 7, 2025

Alphonso “Al” Goode ‘66, March 8, 2025

Catherine McKee Reeverts ‘72, March 10, 2025

William Shields, Former University President, H‘01, March 25, 2025

George Erimie ‘75, October 11, 2024

David Belknap ‘65, April 17, 2025

Laura Parker Jendrzejewski ‘74, October 31, 2024

Dorothy “Jean” Lindsey Brody ‘49, April 23, 2025

Margaret Davey Bunders ‘57, October 12, 2024

Ruth Whitehead Nicholas ‘49, November 8, 2024 Kay Kencke Barton ‘82, November 9, 2024

Sandra “Sandy” Watkins Rowedder ‘57, April 22, 2025 Michael Kuzel ‘65, May 3, 2025

Dennis Benning ‘78, May 16, 2025

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The Office of Advancement and Alumni Nelson Hall, 2nd Floor

5050 E. State Street, Rockford, IL 61108 815-226-3370 • rockford.edu