Media Contact: Director of Communications, Rita Elliott, 815-226-3374

Rockford, Ill., – Rockford University will be hosting Melissa Fleming, head of communications and chief spokesperson for the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) on campus as part of the fall 2016 Forum series. She will be participating in an International Day of Peace panel discussion facilitated by Rockford University President Eric W. Fulcomer, Ph.D. The event will be held Wednesday, September 21, 7 p.m., in Maddox Theatre, Clark Arts Center, 5050 E. State St., Rockford.

Melissa Fleming leads communications efforts around the globe for UNHCR. Operating in 120 countries, UNHCR provides shelter and help for over 30 million people who have fled wars and persecution. She has introduced strategic communication planning designed to have more impact on varied audiences, which include media, donors, governments and refugees themselves. She also directs global advocacy campaigns with a strong emphasis on social media.

She joined UNHCR from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), where she served for eight years as spokesperson and head of public information. During this period the organization made headlines for its inspection work in Iraq, Iran and North Korea and won the Nobel Peace Prize in 2005. Prior to IAEA, she headed the press and information team at the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe and was a public affairs specialist at Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty.

The International Day of Peace, established by United Nations resolution in 1981, provides an opportunity for individuals, organizations and nations to create practical acts of Peace on a shared date (September 21). Around the world, the International Day of Peace is used to highlight the U.N. Decade for a Culture of Peace and Non-Violence for the Children of the World.

The panel discussion is open and free to the public, however, tickets are required. Please contact the Rockford University Box Office at 815-226-4100 or boxoffice@rockford.edu to reserve your tickets or for more information. Clark Arts Center is accessible. To see the entire fall 2016 Forum series line-up visit: https://www.rockford.edu/artslectures/forum/.

Contact- Art Gallery Director, Christina Warzecha 815-226-4105

‌‌Rockford, Ill. – ‘Done undone’ will open September 16 at the Rockford University Art Gallery. Artist Michael Reedy examines the transience of the human condition by exploring memory, visual complexity, and ornamentation. His interest in cartooning and medical illustration has influenced his figurative work. Reedy creates a visual paradox of harmony and dissonance with his seductive figures that instill both a quiet contemplation and a nervous tension.

The exhibit will open Friday, September 16. A reception will be held Friday, September 30 from 6 – 8:30 p.m. in the gallery with an artist talk at 6:30 p.m. ‘Done undone’ will close October 14. The Rockford University Art Gallery is located in the Clark Arts Center at 5050 East State Street, Rockford. Gallery Hours are Monday, Wednesday and Friday, 3 – 6 p.m., Wednesday, 12-3 p.m. and by appointment.

The exhibit is free and open to the public. Clark Arts Center is wheelchair accessible. For more information, contact the Rockford University Box Office at 815-226-4100.

To see list of fall 2015 Art Gallery exhibits visit: https://www.rockford.edu/artslectures/artgallery/.

Media Contact: Director of Communications, Rita Elliott, 815-226-3374

Rockford, Ill. – Six new full-time faculty members joined Rockford University for the 2016-2017 academic year.

Ronald Lee, Ph.D. is assistant professor and chair of the political science department. Dr. Lee has been an adjunct faculty member at Rockford University since 2003. His other teaching experience at the collegiate level comes from Kenyon College, Michigan State University, and Boston College. He has taught a variety of American history courses at Keith Country Day School in Rockford and has served as the head of the middle and upper schools as well. Dr. Lee earned his bachelor’s degree from University of Chicago, and his master’s and doctorate degrees from Boston College.

Joining the nursing department as assistant professor and chair of the department is Laura Monahan, DNP. She comes to Rockford University after serving as a member of the faculty at the University of Illinois at Chicago. Her teaching experience includes time spent at Elmhurst College and McHenry County College. Dr. Monahan is an Illinois Registered Nurse with a bachelor’s degree from Lewis University. She holds dual master’s degrees from Northwestern University and University of Illinois at Chicago. She received her doctorate degree from University of Illinois at Chicago.

Christopher McCullough, Ed.D. joins the University as associate professor, chair and unit head of education. He previously was an assistant professor at Saint Xavier University and an assistant dean for assessment at DePaul University. Dr. McCullough received his bachelor’s degree from Arizona State University, his master’s degree from Marshall University and his doctorate degree from West Virginia University.

J. Andrew Newgren, Ph.D., has been named reference and instructional librarian. He previously was the director of theological engagement at Second Congregational First Presbyterian Church in Rockford. He also held various academic positions at Princeton Theological Seminary. He received his bachelor’s degree from Augustana College, his master’s from Rutgers and his doctorate from Princeton Theological Seminary.

Also joining the nursing department as a visiting assistant professor is Courtney Lewis. Lewis previously was an adjunct faculty member at Rockford University. Her professional background includes time as an emergency department nurse and an orthopedic nurse at SwedishAmerican Hospital in Rockford. She received her associate’s degree from Rock Valley College, and her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Olivet Nazarene University.

Colleen Kennedy was named visiting assistant professor in the department of anthropology and sociology. She previously was an adjunct faculty member at Rockford University and at Roosevelt University. She received her bachelor’s degree from Illinois Wesleyan University and her master’s degree at West Virginia University. She has also studied at William Rainey Harper College, Roosevelt University and Loyola University.

Congratulations to the first Rock Solid Regent for the fall semester, Heather O’Connor!

Heather was nominated by Donnette Tinsley, Director of the Jane Adams Center for Civic Engagement. She is a junior psychology major with a minor in human development. Donnette shared that she is excited to see how Heather has developed as a strong confident leader during her time at RU. As a Jane Adams Service Fellow, her leadership skills continue to improve, she mentors others and has a passion to “empower” others.

During her time at Rockford University Heather has been able to successfully balance her academic endeavors with extracurricular activities. She is an active participant in the Craft Club, Intervarsity, Black Student Union and she regularly attends Rock Solid Lifestyle meetings and events. Additionally, she serves as a Jane Adams Service Fellow and a Resident Assistant for Emerson Hall.

One of the reasons that Heather loves studying at Rockford University is the small class sizes. She is appreciative that she attends a small institution where everyone knows each other. She shared that every faculty member she has had contact with, genuinely cares about students. Heather believes that every student has the opportunity to succeed with the resources that RU has to offer. After graduation she plans to attend graduate school to further her education. Again, congratulations to Heather for being a Rock Solid Regent.

Media contact: Rita Elliott, Director of Communications – 815.226.3374

Rockford University is pleased to welcome Walter Payton family members, Connie and Jarrett Payton to campus on Thursday, Sept. 8, as part of the annual Rock Solid Success Seminar. The public is invited to attend Thursday evening’s Forum Series event featuring a keynote address by Jarrett Payton at 7 p.m., Maddox Theatre, Clark Arts Center on the Rockford University campus. The event is free. Advance tickets are required and can be reserved at the Rockford University Box Office – boxoffice@rockford.edu or at 815-226-4100.

Connie Payton currently oversees the Walter and Connie Payton Foundation. Jarrett Payton, son of the late NFL Hall of Famer Walter Payton, is a radio host, businessman, philanthropist, motivational speaker, former NFL and CFL running back and devoted husband and father. Currently he is the host of CLTV’s Sports Feed program and fill-in sports anchor for WGN News. He is also the co-host of WGN Radio’s The Beat program on Sundays. Payton was most recently a co-host of the “Jarrett, Harry and Spike” radio show on Chicago’s former station The Game 87.7FM.

Along with Thursday evening’s keynot address, Connie and Jarrett Payton will be speaking individually with students earlier in the day about how vision and intense determination and his “Never Die Easy” motto allowed Walter Payton to gain professional and personal success. The Rock Solid Success Seminar is designed to provide motivation and encouragement to all students as they pursue graduation from Rockford University.

The Payton family will share more about the legacy of Walter Payton affectionately known as “Sweetness,” providing insight on how the Chicago Bears running back and Pro-Football Hall of Fame member used vision and intense determination to be successful in his professional and personal endeavors to become one of the most prolific running backs in the history of the National Football League.

The Summer 2016 issue of Catalyst has arrived! You can also view this issue, along with previous issues of Catalyst, on ourwebsite. This issue features a fresh look and a special feature for President Dr. Robert L. Head who retired June 30, 2016, along with some special memories for Professor Gary Lubbert, and plenty of more information about the latest happenings at RU.

‌‌ Dr. Robert L. Head, 17th President Retires – p3 & p4

Welcome Dr. Eric W. Fulcomer, 18th President – p 6

Commencement – p7

Performing Arts – p6

Sciences – p11 & p12

Gala – p14

Faculty & student news – p17

Altheltics – p20

Class notes – p22

Northern Illinois Center for Nonprofit Excellence – Director Pamela J. Clark Reidenbach, 815-226-2833
Media Contact: Director of Communications, Rita Elliott, 815-226-3374

The Northern Illinois Center for Nonprofit Excellence (NICNE) at Rockford University will host “The Economic Value of a Health Human System: A Community Summit, bringing together leaders of organizations from across our region to explore how greater unity and collaboration of entities from all sectors of our community is essential to strengthening our human infrastructure. The summit will held on Wednesday, September 14, 1 -3:30 p.m., Maddox Theatre located in the Clark Arts Center on the Rockford University campus, 5050 East State Street, Rockford.

Facilitated by a diverse group of leaders and organizations from the greater Rockford area and the state, the summit will explore how the health of our community economy is directly linked to residents’ ability to thrive. Community leaders will expound on the economic impact of human services and the related influence on all aspects of community health.

Dr. Eric Fulcomer, President, Rockford University will moderate the discussion. Topics and panelists include:

• The Ecosystem of Wellbeing: Einar Forsman, President and CEO, Rockford Area Chamber of Commerce 
• Shoulders I Stand On: Judith Gethner, Executive Director, Illinois Partners for Human Services 
• Human Services and the State of Illinois: Leslie Geissler Munger, Illinois State Comptroller 
• Economic Impact of Human Services
  • Opportunity and Jobs: Stacy Bernardi, VP for Development, Rockford Area Economic Development Council 
  • Education: Richard Schroeder, Chief Academic Officer, Rockford Public Schools District 205
  • Health: Sandra Martell, Public Health Administrator, Winnebago County Health Department 
  • Security: Chief Daniel O’Shea, Rockford Police Department 
• Call to Action: Mike Schablaske, Executive Director, Transform Rockford 

The public is welcome and there is no charge to attend. Seating is limited so registration is requested. To learn more and register visit CommunitySummit2016.eventbrite.com.

NICNE is a program within the Puri School of Business at Rockford University with generous support from Community Foundation of Northern Illinois and United Way of Rock River Valley.

Rockford University will celebrate the start of its 170th year with the President’s Opening Convocation on Friday, August 26, at 12 p.m., Maddox Theatre in the Rockford University Clark Arts Center, 5050 East State Street, Rockford.

The formal opening convocation has been held annually since 1851. This event includes an academic procession of faculty in traditional robes depicting their rank, with stoles representing their respective alma maters and degrees. Remarks at the event will be given by President Eric W. Fulcomer, Ph.D. This year’s convocation is of special significance as it marks the first opening convocation for Dr. Fulcomer, who took over as the University’s 18th president on July 1, 2016. President Fulcomer’s address is entitled “Reframing,” and will encourage students to embark on this new year with a new frame of mind and to be ready to explore the many opportunities that will be presented to them as college students.

The President’s Opening Convocation also marks the start of the University’s Fall Forum Series. The event is free and open to the public, however tickets are required. The Clark Arts Center is accessible. For more information, contact the Rockford University Box Office at 815-226-4100 or boxoffice@rockford.edu.

Media Contact: Rita Elliott, Director of Communications, 815-226-3374

Rockford, Ill. — The Rockford University fall 2016 Forum Series starts Friday, August 26 with the President’s Opening Convocation. Amongst the highlights of the 11 events are a seminar with the Walter Payton Family, the third annual Rockford City Dance Festival and numerous speakers presenting on a variety of topics including Melissa Fleming, head of communications and chief spokesperson for the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees. All events are open to the public and, with the exception of theatre events, are offered at no charge. All lectures and performances will take place on the Rockford University campus, 5050 East State Street, Rockford. Tickets are required for all events and can be obtained by contacting the Rockford University Box Office at 815-226-4100 or boxoffice@rockford.edu.

Friday, August 26
12 p.m., Maddox Theatre, Clark Arts Center

The 2016–2017 Rockford University academic year begins with a traditional convocation and remarks by President Eric W. Fulcomer. The formal opening convocation event has been held annually since 1851. The event includes a faculty procession in full academic regalia.

Rock Solid Success Seminar
The Family of Walter Payton
Thursday, September 8
7 p.m., Maddox Theatre, Clark Arts Center

The Office of Student Success and Retention presents the annual Rock Solid Success Seminar with the family of NFL Pro Football Hall of Fame member, Walter Payton. Connie and Jarrett Payton will speak about how vision, intense determination, and his “Never Die Easy” motto allowed Walter Payton to gain professional and personal success. The Rock Solid Success Seminar is designed to motivate and encourage all students as they pursue graduation from RU.

‌‌Jane Addams’ Constitution
Carol Nackenoff, Ph.D.
Constitution Day
Monday, September 12
12 p.m., Fisher Memorial Chapel

Carol Nackenoff is the Richter Professor of Political Science at Swarthmore College, where she teaches constitutional law and American politics. She authored The Fictional Republic, co-edited Jane Addams and the Practice of Democracy, and has written about the pragmatist progressive work of Addams and her Hull House associates.

How to Help Refugees Rebuild Their World
Melissa Fleming
Wednesday, September 21
7 p.m., Maddox Theatre, Clark Arts Center 

As Head of Communications and Chief Spokesperson for the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), Melissa Fleming leads communications efforts around the globe. Operating in 120 countries, UNHCR provides shelter and help for over 30 million people who have fled wars and persecution.

“Picnic”
Thursday, October 6 – Sunday, October 9
Thursday – Saturday @ 7:30 p.m.; Sunday @ 2 p.m.
Maddox Theatre, Clark Arts Center 

On the morning of a Labor Day picnic emotions of joy, hope, longing, jealousy, anticipation, loneliness, love, and lust are ignited amongst the seemingly complacent townsfolk when a handsome drifter arrives in their small Kansas community.

Third Annual Rockford City Dance Festival
Friday, October 14 – Saturday, October 15
7:30 p.m., Maddox Theatre, Clark Arts Center 

Rockford University students perform under the direction of Assistant Professor of Dance Amy Wright. Guest dance companies will perform selected sets.

Using Humor to Maximize Living
Mary Kay Morrison
Wednesday, October 26
7 p.m., Fisher Memorial Chapel 

Mary Kay Morrison, founder and director of Humor Quest, is an educator who has taught at virtually every level of the educational spectrum, facilitating keynote presentations and workshop sessions for the past 30 years. She is president of the AATH (Association of Applied and Therapeutic Humor) and founded the AATH Humor Academy graduate studies program. She is the 2016 AATH Lifetime Achievement award recipient.

Economic Outlook
William A. Strauss, senior economist, Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago
Friday, November 11
12 p.m., Fisher Memorial Chapel 

We are in the eighth year of the economic expansion following the “Great Recession” of 2008 and 2009. Yet what would typically be a robust recovery has not occurred, when we consider labor markets, wage growth, credit conditions, energy prices, and exports. Mr. Strauss will look at the performance of the overall macro economy with specific attention paid to key economic sectors and indicators for the U.S. economy over the next couple of years. “scriptures” as sharp wedge for critical research and theorizing in the politics of language, social formation, consciousness, and orientation.

Climate Change, Chemistry, International Assessment, and Policy
Marsha I. Lester, Ph.D.
Phi Beta Kappa Speaker
Monday, November 14
4 p.m., Fisher Memorial Chapel 

Marsha Lester is the Edmund J. Kahn Distinguished Professor in the department of chemistry at the University of Pennsylvania and editor-in chief of The Journal of Chemical Physics. Her research employs novel spectroscopic methods to rigorously characterize important, yet previously uncharted, regions of chemical reaction pathways, including reaction intermediates of environmental significance.

Freedom Firm: Fighting the Sex Trafficking of Minors
Tuesday, November 29
7 p.m., Fisher Memorial Chapel 

Founded in 2006, Freedom Firm seeks to eliminate child prostitution in India by rescuing minors who have been sold into the commercial sex trade, restoring their identities, and seeking justice against those who perpetrate these crimes. Becky Morris, Midwest Regional Senior Representative at Freedom Firm will talk about the efforts employed by Freedom Firm in the fight to eliminate child prostitution.

Fourth Annual Sport Management Symposium
Thursday, December 1
6-8 p.m., Regents Hall, Burpee Center 

Speakers from various areas in the field of sport and recreation management will be on hand to answer questions pertaining to careers in sport management and to share their tips for success. This event is organized by members of Professor Jason Hunter’s Senior Seminar class. A full list of participants is TBD.