In May of 2020, the first two Rockford Promise Scholars to attend Rockford University will graduate. Jennifer Rosales (left) and Alondra Torres (right), both alumnae of Jefferson High School, are grateful and humbled by the unique experience they share as Rockford Promise Scholars.

Rockford University and Rock Valley College joined in a formal collaboration in 2015 with Rockford Promise, committing to provide tuition remission to selected area students. In 2016, Alondra and Jennifer received the first two full-time four-year scholarships, along with three other students who received scholarships to attend Rock Valley College.

Rockford Promise is a non-profit, location-based scholarship program that seeks to improve the local economy by offering full-tuition scholarships to deserving graduates of Rockford Public Schools in District 205. Modeled after other Promise programs around the nation, the organization seeks to increase educational attainment in the Rockford community while providing economic incentives for residents and businesses to locate in the Rockford region. In addition to full-tuition college scholarships, Rockford Promise also supports scholars with various community mentorship opportunities, academic advising, and meaningful social connections to ensure they not only earn their degrees but also gain a strong foundation toward a successful career.

When asked what it meant to her to have this opportunity, Jennifer stated, “Even though I knew I wanted to go to college, graduating high school was one of the highest goals I had for myself and look at where I am today, I am about to graduate from college in less than a year. I would not have been able to achieve this without the help of everyone that has been there for me, including the members of the Rockford Promise committee, Rockford University staff and faculty, and my family.”

Jennifer, a human development major, quickly learned the value of finding ways to engage outside of the classroom. She participated in the Alan Hutchcroft Alternative Spring Break, showcased her athletic talents on the Women’s Soccer Team, and served as a Welcome Week leader for incoming students. This all while maintaining excellent grades and being named to the Dean’s and Distinguished Scholars lists. Planning for her future after graduation, she is committed never to stop learning and hopes to stand out in her profession by attending a graduate school counseling program.

For Alondra, also an honor student with an outstanding academic record, who will graduate with a major in biochemistry and a minor in French, the significance of being able to attend college with the financial burdens lifted is evident.

She shares, “I am grateful that Rockford Promise gave me the chance to attend Rockford University. Thanks to this scholarship, I have been able to make the most out of my college career by searching for endless opportunities to grow as a student and a member of this community.”

Alondra has demonstrated this gratitude by not hesitating to become involved in clubs and organizations on campus, including several Global Affairs events, serving as a Student Government Association representative and Welcome Week leader. Alondra has participated twice in the Alan Hutchcroft Alternative Spring Break, played all four years for the soccer team, and is a member of the Student Government Association. An experience Alondra cites as one of the most meaningful was being able to visit Paris, France in January of 2018, as part of her French Language and Culture Abroad course and with the help of the University’s Student Opportunity Fund. Alondra looks forward to continuing her education and hopes to one day work toward her Masters of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree.

Rockford University’s commitment to Rockford Promise has continued to increase since 2016, with an investment of more than $220,000. Four new Rockford Promise scholars came to Rockford University this fall, joining their eight counterparts. With growing community support, the program is living up to its moniker, truly providing great promise for area students and outstanding soon-to-be alumni in Jennifer and Alondra.

The 165^th Commencement ceremony was held on Sunday, May 19, at the Coronado Performing Arts Center located in downtown Rockford. 350 students from 22 states and 12 countries were awarded degrees in bachelor’s and master’s degree programs. This year’s graduate keynote address was presented by Bernard Sundstedt ’77. Bern officially retired on June 30, 2019, after more than 25 years of service. Through his more than four decades relationship with the University, Sundstedt has been an integral connector to individuals who represent 11 decades of University life, which became evident in his remarks.

Bern’s uniquely tailored address provided depth to the special bond Rockford University is fortunate to have with Eugene Braunwald, M.D. and alumni from the class of 1969, Drs. Marc and Janice Pfeffer. The University was honored to present Dr. Braunwald, a world-renowned cardiologist, a pioneer in the pathophysiology of heart failure, and special friend of the University with an Honorary Doctor of Science.

Dr. Braunwald is the distinguished Hersey Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School, and the founding Chair of the Thrombolysis in Myocardial Infarction Study Group (TIMI) at the Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston, Massachusetts. He trained at New York University School of Medicine and at the age of 25, he had already gained recognition through his published works. Six years later, he was named Chief of Cardiology and Clinical Director of the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute. Dr. Braunwald soon became the founding Chair of Medicine at the University of California, San Diego. From 1972 to 1996 he was Chairman of the Department of Medicine at the Brigham and Women’s Hospital.

As chairman of TIMI, Dr. Braunwald joined with Drs. Marc and Janice Pfeffer to provide significant insight into the treatment of patients who suffer from acute myocardial infarction and unstable angina. Their groundbreaking work changed the trajectory of cardiac medicine. President Fulcomer provided the following remarks about Dr. Braunwald during the ceremony.

Over the past 20 years, you have generously and graciously supported Rockford University in thought, word, and deed.  In addition, your lifetime of professional accomplishments are without compare; they serve as a compelling example of all that is possible in our world – an example our graduates in this and any year would do well to emulate. Your remarkable contributions to science and medicine have forever improved the human condition for people of every race, nation, creed, and ethnicity.

As a recipient of 22 honorary doctorates, we are honored and humbled that you have agreed to accept ours with pride while allowing us to join an impressive role of the most prestigious institutions around the world, whose degrees live on in your heart and adorn the walls of your office.

You are the epitome of liberal learning and embody an exemplary model of the power that exists in allowing oneself to fearlessly challenge the established construct while shattering perceived boundaries for the greater good. 

Your first major paper was published in Circulation Research in July 1954, establishing you as a major force in cardiology ever since. With more than fourteen hundred published articles to your credit, you are the most frequently cited author in cardiology by the journal ‘Science Watch.’

You have served as an editor of Harrison’s Principles of Internal Medicine for 12 editions, and as the founding editor of Heart Disease, now in its 11th Edition – the two most influential textbooks in cardiac medicine. Your contributions to cardiovascular research through your 60-year commitment to Thrombolysis In Myocardial Infarction studies are simply unparalleled, and your findings have resulted in multiple life-saving therapeutic approaches.

Your paradigm-defining discovery that the size of a myocardial infarction could be reduced by favorably altering the balance between oxygen supply and demand set the stage for modern coronary care management.

Your accomplishments are so significant; it is impossible to express in words here today the depth to which you have impacted our world. But of all your endeavors, we at Rockford University are most thankful for the serendipitous circumstances that some 40 years ago brought you into the lives of Rockford University Alumni Dr. Janice Sikorski Pfeffer, and her husband, Dr. Marc Pfeffer. The SAVE and CARE trials that you conducted with them are regarded as two of the most influential cardio/medical trials in the last century and have saved countless patients.

It is a wonderful story of love, commitment, and compassion that will be given full treatment by our commencement speaker, Mr. Bern Sundstedt. Dr. Braunwald, you have done so much for Rockford University and the world of cardiac medicine; we thank you and would like at this time to appropriately recognize you. 

Rockford University announced a new partnership with Rock Valley College designed to provide a seamless path for adult students to complete a business management bachelor’s degree at Rockford University through its Puri School of Business. The Rockford Ready program enables anyone who has completed an Associate’s of Applied Science (A.A.S) to easily transfer their degree credentials for full-credit and earn a Bachelor’s of Science in Management Studies in as little as 24-months through a combination of online and hybrid courses.

Rockford University and Rock Valley College have long-standing transfer articulation agreements for students who begin their college studies at RVC to earn Associates of Art (A.A.) or Associates of Science (A.S.) degrees, which are degrees designed to prepare students for transfer into a four-year college. Rockford Ready differs in that it is customized more specifically for working individuals who have an A.A.S. degree. A.A.S. degrees are more career-focused programs that provide specific skill sets and certifications to go directly into the workforce.

“We are listening closely to what our area business and industry leaders are saying is needed to help their employees acquire the necessary skills and education they need for continued leadership and management growth,” said Rockford University President Dr. Eric Fulcomer. “Rockford Ready is an excellent example of how two organizations can come together to provide a creative and viable continuing education option to specifically addresses those needs. I’m impressed with our respective faculty and administrators who worked side-by-side to design this innovative bachelor’s completion curriculum. We are excited to launch the program here today with our RVC colleagues.”

Each year the Alumni Association Board gives several awards to alumni and long-time university supporters. These awards are presented annually during the All-Alumni Dinner at Homecoming and Reunion each fall, this year held on October 4.

Mary Ashby Cheek Award – Given to a past or present non-alumni member of the Rockford University community for enriching the university experience of many by exemplifying the ideals of the University. One award is given each year.

Dr. Kip Knight & Eileen V. Knight – Inspired by Kip’s mother, Maxine Rosella Burritt Knight, class of 1934, and her affinity for Rockford College, Dr. Kip Knight & Eileen V. Knight continually exemplify the ideals of Rockford University through their selfless support. Both Kip and Eileen are retired lifelong educators who value higher education. These values come to life through the endowed scholarship created in memory of Kip’s mother, their membership in the Mary Ashby Cheek Society, annual visits back to campus, and many other countless ways.

Talcott Cross Award– The oldest Rockford University award, the Talcott Cross is awarded to an Alumna for her constancy, devotion and a long history of meritorious service to Rockford University. One award is given each year.

Cindy Bugajski Sundstedt ’78– Cindy currently serves as Director of Trade Settlements and Receivables at Cimco Resources and has served as Secretary for the Roscoe Township Cemetery Board since 2000. Already an enthusiastic supporter and advocate for Rockford University, Cindy took on additional responsibilities for the better part of 25 years, standing by her husband’s side during his time as VP of Advancement for Rockford University. Through the countless events she has attended, many connections and positive relationships she maintains with alumni, and so much more, Cindy continues to display her constancy and devotion to Rockford University.

​Award of Distinction – Given to Alumni for fulfilling the ideals of Rockford University and bringing honor and esteem to the University in one or more of the following ways; through their vision, dedication, and initiative in a purposeful endeavor; by their responsive and sustained efforts in community improvements; or by their notable achievements in a profession. Up to three awards are given each year.

Tom Clinton ’70/’76 & Linda Clinton ’72/’75 – Tom and Linda Clinton founded First Love International Ministries In 2001. Tom serves as President/CEO and Linda as the Director of Children’s Ministries. In his role as President, Tom oversees First Love’s International headquarters as well as a full time staff comprised of over 300 USA and national staff workers residing in the countries of: the Philippines, Nepal, Indonesia, India, the Czech Republic, Taiwan, Ukraine, Malawi, Peru, Colombia, Kenya, and Peru.

Award of Distinction – Wester Wuori ’92 – Wester Wuori is Chief of Staff for the City of Rockford and has more than 24 years of experience in corporate and political communications, marketing and public relations and 17 years of staff supervisory experience. He has served with various community organizations in the area including Lifescape Community Services, Golden Apple Foundation, I Bike Rockford, Transform Rockford, Discovery Center Museum, The Rockford University Alumni Association, Westminster Presbyterian Church, and Next Rockford.

The University announced in June that competitive eSports would be added to its growing list of student activities, clubs, and NCAA sports. Excitement about the addition of eSports immediately followed the announcement. Play will take place in the new state-of-the-art eSports arena located in the Burpee Student Center. The arena features 16 new gaming PCs completely powered by MSI with easy access for any RU student to jump in and play a few games.

Why eSports? Vice President for Student Life, Dr. Randy Worden says, “Competitive eSports gaming is growing exponentially in our region and across the country. Many area high-schools have teams and the local school district is considering the creation of a joint gaming center where their students can train and compete. Prospective and current students have shown substantial interest in being able to compete at the collegiate level. We’re incredibly excited to add eSports to our campus and provide yet another way for students to have access to diverse opportunities that enhance their overall collegiate experience.”

Rockford University plans to establish and maintain collegiate level competitive teams across a variety of games and will initially compete in the CS Starleague, considered the premier platform for collegiate level League of Legends competition. As the program continues to take shape and evolve, Rockford University is committed to developing additional teams for other competitive eSports (i.e. Rocket League, Overwatch, Counter-Strike). Teams and players at Rockford University will have the opportunity to stream gameplay, compete inter-collegiately, and play against athletes from across the world, all under the official banner of the Rockford University eSports team. 

The eSports program at Rockford University will offer students several real-world advantages. In addition to competitive gaming, students will have opportunities to gain experience in graphic and media design, social media branding and marketing, event planning and management, and communications and broadcasting.

All eSports team members will have numerous opportunities to engage within the greater campus community in important ways that will be an asset to their futures. eSports Coordinator and Graduate Assistant Hall Director Clay Duffy ’17 adds, “While some people may think of eSports as only consisting of competitive video gaming, there is virtually limitless potential for students and athletes  to learn new skills, make new friends, and express themselves in creative ways that ultimately heighten their educational experience.”

To follow the first season of Regents eSports action on Twitter, go to @Regents_eSports.

Criminal Justice made its debut this fall as a new major degree offering. The degree is part of the University’s Sociology and Criminal Justice department, which is part of the College of Social Sciences, Commerce and Education. Criminal Justice previously was offered as a concentration within the Sociology major.

The Criminal Justice degree is designed to provide students with a wide range of opportunities including academic internships at local agencies or organizations within the Rockford community and beyond by preparing students for a variety of careers, such as law enforcement (local, state, and federal), probation and parole, pre-trial services, law, homeland security, forensic science, fish and game wardens, and detectives and criminal investigators.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of police and detectives is projected to grow seven percent from 2016 to 2026. The continued need for public safety is expected to lead to new openings for officers.

Chair of the Department of Sociology and Criminal Justice, Lynn Newhart, Ph.D. (pictured right), says, “In this program, the all-university and collegial requirements ensure a strong liberal arts foundation for a more specialized program of study. Our Criminal Justice curriculum takes an interdisciplinary approach to criminal justice incorporating courses from criminal justice, political science, and sociology.” She also notes that the interdisciplinary approach is important since it offers appeal to students who are interested in criminal justice careers other than law enforcement. A sampling of classes includes: Introduction to Criminal Justice, Transnational Organized Crime, Homeland Security, Terrorism, Law and Society, Constitutional Law: Rights of the Accused, Juvenile Delinquency, and Criminology. Dr. Newhart adds that students will gain knowledge and skills in research, writing, public policy, criminology, corrections, juvenile delinquency, terrorism, and transnational organized crime.

Rockford Police Department’s Assistant Deputy Chief Michael Dalke consulted with the University and Dr. Newhart to provide additional expertise and guidance on shaping the criminal justice program. “Having this program at Rockford University will benefit the institution, the students and community in many ways,” states Dalke. “Knowing the challenges that are presented in Rockford and having a deeper understanding of the community will set these students at an advantage. Building the relationships with the community and hands-on learning through local internships with RPD and others, along with a strong degree curriculum, will help prepare students for a successful career upon graduation.”

Students interested in the Criminal Justice Program at Rockford University are encouraged to contact Rockford University Admissions at 815-226-4050 or email Dr. Newhart at LNewhart@rockford.edu for more information.

As a boy growing up, Associate Professor of Art Dave Menard was drawn to art. “It was all I ever did as a kid. I was never really good at anything else. I was always known as that kid in school who could draw.” It wasn’t until he got into high school that he started to get more serious about his creative drive. That is when he realized that his love for drawing was just the start of where his talents would take him, including his passion for printmaking.

“I equated printmaking with hot-rod culture, like when you’re into cars, it’s not really about the car; it’s about being in the garage, with the tools, the smells, and the sights and sounds. When I discovered this stuff, printmaking, it was very much the same thing you could get your clothes stained, and it had its own smell, its own vibe, and its own culture, its own kind of feel to being in the room where it happens.”

Dave’s passion and dedication to the art scene, in addition to obtaining his two art degrees, has not only paved a path for his 13 year career with the University, but has also led him to become a part of Fatherless: A Print Posse, a collaborative print posse with work derived from the results of five artists, who come from the United States and the United Kingdom. When speaking with Dave, it becomes wholly apparent how devoted and passionate he is about teaching. He takes great pride in passing on the knowledge he has gained through the unique experiences his artistic journey has provided him.

One of these experiences includes his most recent trip to the Moniker International Art Fair in May 2019 with Fatherless Print Posse in Manhattan’s NoHo district, New York. Moniker was founded in 2010 in London and is a hyper curated five-day contemporary art fair that exhibits an international roster of the finest artists and galleries at the cutting edge of urban art and culture.

Alongside these impressive artists, Fatherless showcased their prints in a house, also known as the print fort, which was constructed by Rockford University Theater major Tori Mays ’16. The house is made out of wood and has tiles that get printed on and screwed to it. The print fort not only helps to encapsulate the whole cultural esthetic but also allows them to live print out of it during the exhibitions. The print fort was used during their exhibition in New York as well as at the Rockford Art Museum in 2015.

When it comes to having the chance to experience these opportunities, Dave says artistic inspiration is not the main motivation for his efforts. “Everything that is good that happened for me since I moved to Rockford is something that has resulted from physical work that has led to it. All of it has come from physically creating the next opportunity from the last opportunity, so if I wait for inspiration sometimes it’s a long wait. I just keep working through it.”

The value of hard work and determination is also something he stresses in his lectures with students. “I don’t see a ton of students, but the ones I do I care about, and I want them to generate work and I want them to be productive and smart. I’m really proud of the students and the work that I’ve been able to make here with these kids and the fact that I set my life up to where this is what I get to do every day. That definitely motivates me.”

To view additional artwork created by Dave, his students, and Fatherless visit his website at menardprint.com.

Two-time graduate, Manny Tang ’07/’11 also known as the artist China Cat, is gaining major traction for her artistic abilities in painting and printmaking. Manny graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology with minors in Art History and Human Development and also went on to graduate with her Master of Arts degree in Education. Her experience here along with the help of associate professor of art, Dave Menard, is what introduced Manny to her passion for printmaking.

Recently, she was highlighted in an article titled “State of the Artist: Who doesn’t like a little black leather?” by WNIJ (Northern Public Radio) where she was recognized for her unique style of art. Check out the article to learn more about Manny and how she became interested in feminist art that appeals to the “female gaze”, also known as art that represents the perspective or sensibility of the female viewer.

Pictured left: Manny Tang standing outside the Clark Arts Center at Rockford University. Photo Credit: Connie Kuntz (WNIJ)