Lynott to lead Rockford University until Dr. Fulcomer’s successor begins

ROCKFORD, Ill. (October 19, 2022) – Rockford University, the region’s leading private four-year educational institution, has announced that Dr. Patricia Lynott will serve as interim president beginning December 12, 2022 as the search for the successor to current Rockford University President Dr. Eric Fulcomer moves forward.  Lynott will be on campus beginning November 14 to spend several weeks with Fulcomer before his departure to get to know faculty, staff, and students and becoming acquainted with the wider Rockford community. 

Lynott served as president of University College at Southern New Hampshire University. She is a trusted leader with more than 20 years of service advancing the missions of nationally ranked colleges and universities, with more than a decade of experience at the executive level.

She has an established record of success in strategic planning, organizational change, operations, and community outreach. She played a critical leadership role in transitioning Southern New Hampshire University from a regional business college into a national, multi-faceted University. She successfully managed the impact of rapid and significant growth during a period of transformation.

Lynott also served many years in the classroom as an associate professor at Elmhurst College before becoming Dean of Graduate and Continuing Education and eventually executive director of Elmhurst Partners.

She earned a Doctor of Educational Leadership and Policy Studies from Loyola University Chicago and her Master of Arts degree in communication studies from Northern Illinois University as well as a bachelor’s degree in communication from Trinity College.

“We are thrilled to have Dr. Lynott leading the University through this transition,” said Board of Trustees Chair Rebecca Epperson. “We look forward to her leadership; her commitment to Rockford University’s students, staff, and faculty; and the stability she will provide as our search for the permanent leader is underway.”

The Rockford University Board of Trustees carefully evaluated applicants for the interim position, specifically looking for a candidate with experience supporting a smooth continuity of operations for students, faculty, and staff through periods of transition.

“Rockford University has done an incredible job of remaining financially stable while continuing to provide the best of what makes small private institutions so important: a close-knit campus community; more one-on-one interaction with caring professors; greater curriculum flexibility, less bureaucracy, and so much more. Throughout its evolution from a women’s seminary, to a co-ed college, to a regional university, Rockford has always adapted to the changes and challenges of the times,” said Lynott. “I am extremely pleased to be joining the Rockford University community as it continues to evolve in meeting the needs of today’s students.”

ABOUT ROCKFORD UNIVERSITY

Rockford University is a private four-year, co-educational institution founded in 1847 offering undergraduate and graduate degrees in traditional liberal arts and professional fields. The University offers more than 80 majors, minors, and concentrations, including the bachelor’s degree completion program for a B.S. in Management Studies. Through its Graduate Studies department, degrees are extended to include the Master of Business Administration (MBA), Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT), and Master of Education in Urban Education, (M.Ed.). Rockford University is home to one of only 11 Phi Beta Kappa (PBK) chapters in Illinois, the most prestigious honor society in the United States. Named by The Princeton Review as a Best Midwestern College and is a U.S. News & World Report Best Midwest Regional University, Rockford University currently serves approximately 1,250 full-and part-time students.

A COVID-19 update email was sent on August 3, 2022 to the Rockford University community and on August 11 the CDC updated guidance for quarantine.  Please see below for the new information based on the new CDC guidance.

The executive order requiring vaccination and weekly testing has been rescinded for colleges and universities.  Students, faculty and staff are no longer required to test weekly regardless of their vaccination status.

Students are strongly encouraged to receive the COVID-19 vaccine and booster. Students should upload proof of vaccination to Lang Wellness Center here: https://rockford.jotform.com/211034954494053.

• Students showing symptoms of Covid-19 should stay home and notify Lang Wellness Center at healthcenter@rockford.edu. 
• Students who are identified as close contacts to someone who has tested positive for Covid-19 are no longer required to quarantine. 
• Students who are close contacts will need to wear a mask for 10 days following the exposure when around other people indoors.
• Residential students who have to isolate are asked to return home if they live within 100 miles of the university.  

Classroom Policy:

• If a student tests positive in a classroom, all students will be contacted.
• While short term accommodations will be put into place for students who test positive for COVID- 19, as is often done with other illnesses that require a longer absence, such accommodations are not required to include teleparticipation (Zoom). Rather, accommodations could include sharing slides or notes with the student, extending deadlines, and other possibilities deemed appropriate by instructor.
• Students participating in clinical experiences will follow any additional guidelines set forth by the clinical placement. 

Employees are strongly encouraged to receive the COVID-19 vaccine and booster.  Employees should send their proof of vaccination for COVID-19 to Human Resources.

• Employees showing symptoms of Covid-19 should stay home and notify HR.
• Employees who are identified as close contacts to someone who has tested positive for Covid-19 are no longer required to quarantine. 
• Employees who are close contacts will need to wear a mask for 10 days following the exposure when around other people indoors.

As always, anyone is free to wear a mask at any point.  Should you have any questions, students should contact Lang Wellness Center at HealthCenter@rockford.edu or at 815-226-4083, employees should contact HR at mdiventi@rockford.edu. or at 815-226-4376.  Thank you all very much. 

Rockford, Ill. (July 7, 2022) – Rockford University President Eric W. Fulcomer, Ph.D., today announced that Randal V. Childs has been hired as the Vice President for Advancement. Childs will begin his role at Rockford University on August 15.

Childs will serve as Rockford University’s chief philanthropy officer and strategist for the Advancement Division, and as chief development officer to the President, the Board of Trustees, and other University officials on all matters involving current and potential philanthropic support. He will oversee all areas of Advancement which includes Alumni Relations, Planned Giving, Major Gifts, Corporate and Foundation Gifts, Data and Gift Management, Prospect and Grant Research, and Marketing & Communications.

Previously, Childs served at North Carolina Central University for 17 years as its director of major gifts, assistant vice chancellor, and most recently its associate vice chancellor. He is well versed in developing strategic partnerships and fundraising and corporate giving programs which, during his time, averaged $7.8 million annually.

Childs also has helped ensure operational excellence within donor stewardship, team management, strategic direction, stakeholder engagement, and alumni relations and has a proven track record in delivering significant and measurable value within all roles undertaken, combining a seasoned acumen with strategic management and fundraising proficiency.

“We’re pleased to have Randal join our Rockford University leadership team,” said Fulcomer. “His depth of experience and energy for raising funds in higher education and keen understanding of the opportunities that we have before us will be instrumental in moving Rockford University into the future.”

As a member of the President’s executive council, Childs will participate in strategic planning and work collaboratively with leadership across the institution to support key academic and University priorities, initiatives, and opportunities. He also will lead a robust effort to further engage with current donors and develop effective outreach plans to connect with constituents. Additionally, he will oversee the overall image, brand, and public relations functions of Rockford University.

“I already have an affinity for Rockford University and am excited about its potential to impact the region’s educational landscape,” said Childs. “The institution is in a strong position, and I look forward to furthering its mission by focusing on alumni relations, community engagement, and constituent development to raise the University’s profile and commitment going forward.”

A native of Greenwood, South Carolina, Childs received his Bachelor of Arts degree in Computer Science at Morehouse College and his MBA in Management/Marketing at Elon University.

ABOUT ROCKFORD UNIVERSITY

Rockford University is a private four-year, co-educational institution founded in 1847 offering undergraduate and graduate degrees in traditional liberal arts and professional fields. The university offers more than 80 majors, minors, and concentrations, including the bachelor’s degree completion program offering a B.S. in management studies and accounting studies. Through its graduate programs, degrees are extended to include the Master of Business Administration (MBA), Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT), and Master of Education in Urban Education, (M.Ed.). Rockford University is home to one of only 11 Phi Beta Kappa (PBK) chapters in Illinois, the most prestigious honor society in the United States. Named by The Princeton Review as a Best Midwestern College and as a U.S. News & World Report Best Midwest Regional University, Rockford University currently serves approximately 1,250 full-and part-time students.

Rockford University will provide Amazon hourly employees access to undergraduate
and online degree completion programs

 Amazon’s Career Choice program provides full tuition to learn new skills for
career success at Amazon or elsewhere

Rockford, Ill. (July 6, 2022) — Today, Rockford University, the region’s leading four-year educational institution, announced they have been selected as an education partner for Amazon’s Career Choice program, providing Amazon’s hourly employees access to all its undergraduate and degree completion programs.

“We are pleased that Amazon has chosen Rockford University as an education partner for their Career Choice Program,” said Dr. Eric Fulcomer, Rockford University President. “We are committed to ensuring that the high-quality education students receive at Rockford University is available to any Amazon employee who wishes to take part in the program.”

The university offers more than 80 majors, minors, and concentrations for undergraduate studies, including the online bachelor’s degree completion program offering a B.S. in management studies, accounting studies, and human services. Rockford University is offering a 15 percent tuition discount for the online degree completion program and part-time traditional undergrad students who enroll as Amazon Career Choice eligible employees. To apply or learn more about Rockford University, visit Rockford.edu/admission or call 815.226.4050.

Amazon’s Career Choice program is an education benefit that empowers employees to learn new skills for career success at Amazon or elsewhere. The program meets individual learners where they are on their education journey through a variety of education and upskilling opportunities including full college tuition, industry certifications designed to lead to in-demand jobs, and foundational skills such as English language proficiency, high school diplomas, and GEDs. In the U.S., the company is investing $1.2 billion to upskill more than 300,000 employees by 2025 to help move them into higher-paying, in-demand jobs.

Amazon’s Career Choice program has a rigorous selection process for third-party partner educators, choosing partners that are focused on helping employees through their education programs, assisting them with job placements, and overall offering education that leads to career success.

“We’re looking forward to Rockford University coming on board as an education partner for Career Choice, adding to the hundreds of best-in-class offerings available to our employees,” said Tammy Thieman, Global Program Lead of Amazon’s Career Choice program. “We’re committed to empowering our employees by providing them access to the education and training they need to grow their careers, whether that’s with us or elsewhere. We have intentionally cultivated a partner network of third-party educators and employers committed to providing excellent education, job placement resources, and continuous improvements to the experience. Today, over 50,000 Amazon employees around the world have already participated in Career Choice and we’ve seen first-hand how it can transform their lives.”

For more information on Amazon’s Career Choice, visit: https://www.aboutamazon.com/news/workplace/career-choice.

For more information on Rockford University, visit: https://www.rockford.edu/ or call 815.226.4050.

ABOUT ROCKFORD UNIVERSITY

Rockford University is a private four-year, co-educational institution founded in 1847 offering undergraduate and graduate degrees in traditional liberal arts and professional fields. The university offers more than 80 majors, minors, and concentrations, including the bachelor’s degree completion program offering a B.S. in management studies, accounting studies, and human services. Through its graduate programs, degrees are extended to include the Master of Business Administration (MBA), Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT), and Master of Education in Urban Education, (M.Ed.). Rockford University is home to one of only 11 Phi Beta Kappa (PBK) chapters in Illinois, the most prestigious honor society in the United States. Named by The Princeton Review as a Best Midwestern College and as a U.S. News & World Report Best Midwest Regional University, Rockford University currently serves approximately 1,250 full-and part-time students.

Rockford, Ill. (June 24, 2022) – Rockford University, the region’s leading private four-year educational institution, today announced that two of its employees – Dr. Mandolen Mull, Chair of the Puri School of Business and Assistant Professor of Leadership, and Autumn Schaal, MA, LPC, NCC, Personal Counselor and Disability Support Services Coordinator – were recently named two of the 2022 40 under Forty by the Rockford Chamber of Commerce.

Highlighting individuals who are compelling, interesting, and “doers”, the Chamber’s 40 under Forty honorees are people who have distinguished themselves in their professional field or organization, are engaged citizens, and provide leadership by volunteering their time and talents to community groups and causes.

“It is great to have two of our employee’s honored among a wide range of distinguished professionals from the Rockford area,” said Dr. Eric Fulcomer, Rockford University President. “We are thankful for their service to the university and the greater community.”

The 40 under Forty recognition began in 2008 and, including this year’s class, has honored 240 leaders since then and is comprised of men and women representing a variety of industries, including healthcare, government, nonprofits, finance, education, and professional services. Honorees are business leaders who impact their respective organizations and industries and who positively affect the local business environment.

Dr. Mandolen Mull

Dr. Mull has been with Rockford University since the fall of 2018 where she has been integral in revising the programs within the Puri School of Business and setting an inspiring vision toward sustainable success. Additionally, she owns MullMentum Consulting, helping to develop leaders and organizations across the globe.

“I am sincerely honored to be part of this year’s group of 40 under Forty,” said Dr. Mull. “I extend a heartfelt gratitude to my nominators and to the Chamber for this humbling recognition. Additionally, I would like to thank all of my phenomenal colleagues, students, and community partners who have helped me to feel welcomed and allowed me to serve here in Rockford.”

Autumn Schaal

Schaal joined Rockford University in April 2022 after completing an internship at the Lang Wellness Center on campus for her master’s degree in mental health counseling. As Rockford University’s Disability Support Services Coordinator, Schaal understands that a student’s environment plays a vital role in their academic success and overall health. Schaal has a wide range of experience in fields of wellness, and her holistic healing practices allow her to meet each student’s needs on an individual basis. In this position, Schaal works with her team to provide students with confidential support and to stimulate their physical and mental health.

“It is a great honor to be selected for 40 under Forty in my home community,” said Schaal. “I am especially encouraged by the number of health workers and mental health advocates who I am recognized along with this year and all the work they do in the Rockford community.”

ABOUT ROCKFORD UNIVERSITY

Rockford University is a private four-year, co-educational institution founded in 1847 offering undergraduate and graduate degrees in traditional liberal arts and professional fields. The university offers more than 80 majors, minors, and concentrations, including the bachelor’s degree completion program offering a B.S. in management studies and accounting studies. Through its graduate programs, degrees are extended to include the Master of Business Administration (MBA), Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT), and Master of Education in Urban Education, (M.Ed.). Rockford University is home to one of only 11 Phi Beta Kappa (PBK) chapters in Illinois, the most prestigious honor society in the United States. Named by The Princeton Review as a Best Midwestern College and as a U.S. News & World Report Best Midwest Regional University, Rockford University currently serves approximately 1,250 full-and part-time students.

Fully Online, Eight-Week Courses Begin August 22nd

Virtual Information Session on June 29th

Rockford, Ill. (June 22, 2022) – Rockford University, the region’s leading private four-year educational institution, announced it is offering a new major, Bachelor of Science in Human Services, within its Bachelor’s Degree Completion program, to meet the growing need of experts in this field.

With a commitment to social justice and advocacy, the goal of Human Services is to help people meet basic biological, social, and psychological needs that, at times, they cannot meet on their own.

The field of Human Services needs qualified individuals now more than ever. This broad field benefits from workers possessing both content and soft skills that empower them to make a substantial difference in the lives of the community members they serve. This unique degree prepares individuals for direct service as well as leadership in agencies and schools. With a BSHS degree, individuals can apply developmental theory, intervention strategies, and program development using best practices in the field. Additionally, Rockford University’s BSHS graduates will be able to collaborate effectively with colleagues to help their organization effectively serve their community.

Currently, there is a shortage of caseworkers in both the child welfare and aging service areas. As a result, caseworkers must take on larger caseloads resulting in less contact with their clients. Completing a BSHS degree allows the graduate to take on the greater responsibilities of a caseworker. An increase in degreed workers in Rockford and the surrounding area has the potential for increasing service to our most vulnerable populations. Together with those already in the field, Rockford University’s graduates will support the critical work needed to sustain a healthy and growing community.

As part of the degree completion program at the Puri School of Business, students will complete business courses and gain an understanding of fundamental skills such as team dynamics, leadership, and budget development — in addition to studying human development and psychology.

“A degree in human services from Rockford University prepares students for all aspects of their jobs,” said Joel Lynch, Ph.D., Chair of the Department of Psychology and Professor of Psychology. “From learning trauma-informed intervention techniques and strategies to often needed business skills, this major shapes students into well-rounded individuals.”

“This new degree offering opens the door for students to take that next step in their career,” said Michael J. Quinn, Ph.D., Vice President for Enrollment Management. “Not only can students continue working while they complete their bachelor’s degree, but students can also save time and money by earning college credit for training they’ve completed through their employer.”

All degree completion majors are offered fully online with flexible, eight-week courses starting on August 22, October 24, and January 17. Additionally, there is a virtual information session scheduled for Noon, Wednesday, June 29^th. Students interested in the Bachelor of Science in Human Services at Rockford University are encouraged to contact Rockford University Admissions at 815-226-4050 or email AGAdmissions@rockford.edu to schedule a one-on-one informational session.

ABOUT ROCKFORD UNIVERSITY

Rockford University is a private four-year, co-educational institution founded in 1847 offering undergraduate and graduate degrees in traditional liberal arts and professional fields. The university offers more than 80 majors, minors, and concentrations, including the bachelor’s degree completion program offering a B.S. in management studies and accounting studies. Through its graduate programs, degrees are extended to include the Master of Business Administration (MBA), Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT), and Master of Education in Urban Education, (M.Ed.). Rockford University is home to one of only 11 Phi Beta Kappa (PBK) chapters in Illinois, the most prestigious honor society in the United States. Named by The Princeton Review as a Best Midwestern College and as a U.S. News & World Report Best Midwest Regional University, Rockford University currently serves approximately 1,250 full-and part-time students.

Fulcomer will leave Rockford University stronger and ready for its next chapter

ROCKFORD, Ill. (June 8, 2022) – Rockford University, the region’s leading private four-year educational institution, has announced the resignation of its president, Dr. Eric Fulcomer, who has accepted a position as the president of the Wisconsin Association of Independent Colleges and Universities (WAICU) in Madison, WI. He will remain at the university through mid-December 2022 to provide the Board of Trustees time to ensure a smooth transition.

“It has been an honor and a privilege to serve the Rockford University students, faculty, staff, alumni, donors, and community,” shared Fulcomer. “While I look forward to this new chapter, I will miss the people and organizations with whom I have had the pleasure to work and will continue to count as friends and colleagues.”

During his more than nine years at the institution, Fulcomer helped Rockford University solidify its financial footing, enhance its community presence and partnerships, realize consistently strong enrollment, and navigate the unprecedented challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. Here are just a few of the university’s accomplishments under his leadership:

• As the Vice President of Enrollment Management and then as President, Fulcomer put Rockford University on a course for consistent, sometimes record-breaking enrollment in undergraduate, graduate, and degree-completion programs.
• Early in his tenure as President, Fulcomer led a strategic planning initiative to align all stakeholders in identifying and achieving priorities for the university’s success. The plan became the roadmap for vitally important and successful initiatives.
• In 2018, Rockford University’s capital campaign concluded having raised $18.4M, which was more than $1M above the initial goal.
• The success of the capital campaign facilitated a multi-million dollar investment into campus improvements including an addition to Seaver Gymnasium, which houses a new fitness center and renovated classrooms for a growing kinesiology program; renovations to the Starr Science Building; upgrades to the residence halls; and significant improvements in campus infrastructure, technology, and the student experience.
• Fulcomer helped create an improved governance model for the Board of Trustees that is being utilized effectively still today.
• Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, Fulcomer supported students, faculty, and staff to manage campus safety and transition learning so students had the flexibility to continue coursework without interruption.
• The Office of Student Life implemented a robust Student Leadership Program with more than 50 student leadership positions at the university.
• Working with regional higher education partners, Rockford University implemented new agreements with area community colleges that enhanced transfer of applied credits for degree completion programs.

Perhaps most importantly, the Board of Trustees credits Fulcomer with creating a culture of strategic planning, sound governance, and a high-functioning executive leadership team. While his specific achievements are numerous, they felt this will be his legacy for years to come.

“A true measure of leadership is the success of an organization once you are no longer in that role,” said Joel Moore, president of Rockford University Board of Trustees. “Eric’s contributions have strengthened internal and external relationships and provided a stable and successful foundation upon which the university will continue to grow. He will be missed, and we wish him continued success in his next endeavor.”

During the next six months, Fulcomer will continue in his role and assist the Board of Trustees in preparing for and transitioning to his successor. A full search is slated to begin this summer.

As the incoming president of WAICU, Fulcomer will oversee the official organization of the 23 independent (or private) nonprofit institutions of higher learning in Wisconsin. Membership is limited to accredited, nonprofit institutions headquartered in Wisconsin. WAICU members collectively enroll 53,000 students and offer over 470 academic programs and produce 23 percent of all the bachelor’s degrees and 35 percent of all the advanced degrees awarded in the state.

 ABOUT ROCKFORD UNIVERSITY

Rockford University is a private four-year, co-educational institution founded in 1847 offering undergraduate and graduate degrees in traditional liberal arts and professional fields. The University offers more than 80 majors, minors, and concentrations, including the bachelor’s degree completion program for a B.S. in Management Studies. Through its Graduate Studies department, degrees are extended to include the Master of Business Administration (MBA), Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT), and Master of Education in Urban Education, (M.Ed.). Rockford University is home to one of only 11 Phi Beta Kappa (PBK) chapters in Illinois, the most prestigious honor society in the United States. Named by The Princeton Review as a Best Midwestern College and is a U.S. News & World Report Best Midwest Regional University, Rockford University currently serves approximately 1,250 full-and part-time students.

Gift will fund full-tuition undergraduate scholarship for female humanities students

Rockford, Ill. (May 27, 2022) – Rockford University, the region’s leading private, four-year educational institution, announces an endowed gift of $700,000 donated in honor of a late alumna. The gift is the largest single donation since the conclusion of the university’s Rock Solid & Ready Campaign in 2019 and will fund a full-tuition undergraduate scholarship for female humanities students.

This endowed scholarship has been established by an anonymous donor in memory of his wife, an alumna from the 1950’s. She was a passionate advocate for Rockford University through her personal philanthropy and outreach. She was awarded the Rockford College Award of Distinction by the Alumni Association and also served on the Board of Trustees.

“We are incredibly grateful for this generous endowed gift that will help support students for many years to come,” said Eric Fulcomer, Ph.D., Rockford University President. “Receiving a donation of this significance during our 175^th anniversary year demonstrates the tremendous impact this university has had on generations of students. Thanks to this gift, many future students will continue to benefit from the world-class education that Rockford University provides.”

Endowed scholarships allow for gifts to live in perpetuity as the gift grows and benefits countless students. This endowed undergraduate scholarship will provide a full-tuition scholarship for one student per year. The scholarship will be awarded to a female student who completes a written statement, pursues a degree in one of the humanities, and maintains a 3.0 grade point average. Preference will be given to first-generation students — a growing population of Rockford University’s undergraduate students.

 ABOUT ROCKFORD UNIVERSITY

Rockford University is a private four-year, co-educational institution founded in 1847 offering undergraduate and graduate degrees in traditional liberal arts and professional fields. The university offers more than 80 majors, minors, and concentrations, including the bachelor’s degree completion program offering a B.S. in management studies and accounting studies. Through its graduate programs, degrees are extended to include the Master of Business Administration (MBA), Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT), and Master of Education in Urban Education, (M.Ed.). Rockford University is home to one of only 11 Phi Beta Kappa (PBK) chapters in Illinois, the most prestigious honor society in the United States. Named by The Princeton Review as a Best Midwestern College and as a U.S. News & World Report Best Midwest Regional University, Rockford University currently serves approximately 1,250 full-and part-time students.

For more information: Emma Bergstrom, Rockford University, 815.394.5041, ebergstrom@rockford.edu.

Rockford, Ill. (May 17, 2022) – Rockford University, the region’s leading private four-year educational institution, presented a donation of $10,000 to Kids Around the World on April 22, 2022, ahead of the university’s first international interdisciplinary service trip to Ecuador.

Today, May 17, 2022, 18 Rockford University psychology and physics students, along with three faculty and staff members, will travel to Ecuador where they will build a playground in conjunction with Kids Around The World, a faith-based, non-profit missions organization. The psychology students will interview local university students and community members to learn more about the Ecuadorian culture. Physics students will teach STEM activities to local children in after-school programs.

“Our commitment to service and internationalism is deeply ingrained in our institutional culture,” said Dr. Eric Fulcomer, Rockford University President. “Not only will our students have the opportunity to learn more about a different culture, but they will also help to build a space that will serve as a safe haven for children for many years to come.”

The Ecuadorian trip is supported by Rockford University’s Student Opportunity Fund, which provides financial support for student-based curricular or co-curricular activities or projects with an academic component. It will cover the cost to take down, refurbish, ship, and put up a playground.

Kids Around The World was founded in Rockford in 1994 by Rockford University Trustee Emeritus Denny Johnson. This will be its 44^th playground in Ecuador, and will bring the total number of Kids Around The World playgrounds worldwide to 1,004.

ABOUT ROCKFORD UNIVERSITY

Rockford University is a private four-year, co-educational institution founded in 1847 offering undergraduate and graduate degrees in traditional liberal arts and professional fields. The university offers more than 80 majors, minors, and concentrations, including the bachelor’s degree completion program offering a B.S. in management studies and accounting studies. Through its graduate programs, degrees are extended to include the Master of Business Administration (MBA), Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT), and Master of Education in Urban Education, (M.Ed.). Rockford University is home to one of only 11 Phi Beta Kappa (PBK) chapters in Illinois, the most prestigious honor society in the United States. Named by The Princeton Review as a Best Midwestern College and ass a U.S. News & World Report Best Midwest Regional University, Rockford University currently serves approximately 1,250 full-and part-time students.

For more information: Emma Bergstrom, Rockford University, 815.394.5041, ebergstrom@rockford.edu.

During university’s 175^th anniversary year, graduation ceremonies return to the Coronado after two-year absence due to COVID-19 pandemic.

Rockford, Ill. (May 14, 2022) – Rockford University, the region’s leading private, four-year educational institution, will hold its 168^th Commencement on Saturday, May 14, 2022 at 10 a.m. at the Coronado Performing Arts Center in Rockford. The university will award undergraduate and graduate degrees to more than 370 students from 23 states and 13 countries.

The Coronado Performing Arts Center will host the university’s Commencement for the first time since 2019. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the university’s 2020 Commencement ceremony was held virtually and the 2021 ceremony was held on campus at the university’s Sam Greeley Field.

“In our 175^th year as an institution, we are grateful to recognize this milestone event by returning to the historic Coronado Theatre,” said Rockford University President Dr. Eric W. Fulcomer. “Our students have worked hard for this moment and we look forward to celebrating them.”

Providing this year’s keynote address to the graduates is Kimberly Wehle, an author, lawyer, law professor, and legal expert.

Currently a tenured professor at the University of Baltimore School of Law, Wehle’s scholarship focuses on the separation of powers, administrative agencies, and civil litigation. She is a former legal analyst for CBS and provides frequent legal commentary for CNN, FOX News, MSNBC, NBC, BBC, NPR, and other media outlets. Her political commentary can also be read in Politico, The Atlantic, The Bulwark, and The Hill. Wehle is the author of the books, “What You Need to Know about Voting – and Why,” “How to Read The Constitution – and Why,” and “How to Think Like A Lawyer – and Why.”

“I am both thrilled and humbled to participate in the celebration of this important milestone in the lives of Rockford’s esteemed graduates,” said Wehle, “The world needs you!”

Tickets are required to attend the Commencement ceremony, and have been limited to degree candidates and their guests. No tickets will be available at the door on May 14.

About Rockford University: Rockford University is a private four-year, co-educational institution founded in 1847 offering undergraduate and graduate degrees in traditional liberal arts and professional fields. The university offers more than 80 majors, minors, and concentrations, including the bachelor’s degree completion program offering a B.S. in management studies and accounting studies. Through its graduate programs, degrees are extended to include the Master of Business Administration (MBA), Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT), and Master of Education in Urban Education (M.Ed.). Rockford University is home to one of only 11 Phi Beta Kappa (PBK) chapters in Illinois, the most prestigious honor society in the United States. Named by The Princeton Review as a Best Midwestern College and as a U.S. News & World Report Best Midwest Regional University, Rockford University currently serves approximately 1,250 full-and part-time students.

For more information: Emma Bergstrom, Rockford University, 815.394.5041, ebergstrom@rockford.edu.