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06/18/2025 8:30 am
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Professor Timm Adams Named Artistic Director of Camerata Emanon
05/15/2025 8:54 am
Congratulations to RU’s own Timm Adams on being named the Artistic Director of Camerata Emanon! Timm will continue in his role of Associate Professor of Music at RU while leading the Camerata Emanon Singers.
From Camerata Emanon on Facebook: The board of Camerata Emanon is pleased to announce the appointment of its new artistic director, following the outstanding ten-year leadership of Dr. Timothy Anderson. The new director will be Timm Adams, Associate Professor of Music at Rockford University.
Timm brings years of experience in theater, musical theater, vocal instruction, and choral conducting to his new role, having directed the renowned Chicago Chamber Choir from 2000-2015 as well as choirs at Rockford University and other institutions.
Since its founding in 1999, The Camerata Emanon Singers has brought together talented individuals from the greater Rockford region with a passion for singing. As a community chamber choir dedicated to singing choral compositions requiring little or no accompaniment, Camerata Emanon has presented music from a variety of styles and periods at its concerts. It has also been blessed with former artistic directors, founder Rulee Stallmann (1999-2015) and Tim Anderson (2015-2025).
“After singing with the fine musicians of Camerata Emanon for five years, I’m looking forward to continuing Tim Anderson’s excellent work,” said new artistic director Timm Adams. “I’m fascinated by the ability of the human voice to move an audience. I’m also interested in the storytelling of choral programming. And I’m committed to the community role of choirs, for both the singers and the community at large. I look forward to developing further the chorus’s beautiful sound and chamber repertoire to complement the already rich musical scene in Rockford. Thank you for this opportunity.”
Photo from the 2024 RUPA trip to perform at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe in Scotland.
The Puri School of Business
04/07/2025 3:00 pm
The Puri School of Business
At the PURI School of Business, our scope of study expands beyond our traditional majors: Accounting, Business Administration, Marketing, and Financial Economics. Students and faculty work together to examine the trends of business and organizations; recently we launched 4 new majors: Data Analytics, Digital Marketing, Healthcare Administration, and Supply Chain Management. We also examine the ethical, political, and social issues arising from the workings of our business world.
Our students live and work in globally integrated environments. We help students develop an understanding of the varied business fields, as well as the society in which they live, so that they can become effective participants within the business realm. Creating sustainable, successful careers centered on civic engagement is the ultimate goal of earning a degree from the Puri School of Business at Rockford University.
Our courses are centered on collaborative learning, case studies, community-based learning, and internships. Our faculty are not only recognized academic scholars, but they also bring with them corporate experience. These are opportunities for students to make course lessons their own, to match theory with practice. This blend of theory and practical application allows PURI School of Business students to obtain the tools that are imperative for long-term career success within the business realm.
About the Puri School of Business
On October 3, 2014, Rockford University formally established the Puri School of Business, thereby recognizing and celebrating the ongoing contributions of Mr. Sunil Puri ’82/’13H, co-founder and President of First Midwest Group.
The Puri School commemorates Mr. Puri’s lifetime commitment to Rockford University. It is the first named school at the University and is home to undergraduate, graduate and certificate programs in economics, business and accounting.
Mr. Puri was born in Bombay, India, and immigrated to the United States in 1979 to attend Rockford College®, graduating in 1982 with a Bachelor of Science in Accounting. From the minute he stepped on campus as an undergrad, a fire sparked inside him that still burns bright. As a dedicated Trustee and tireless advocate for Rockford University, he has proudly promoted and protected the interests of our University; for that we are most grateful.
The School is housed in a 28,000-square-foot building donated by Mr. Puri and is located just to the east of the main campus entrance. The building serves as the hub for all related School programs and is under the umbrella of the University’s College of Social Sciences, Commerce and Education.
Mr. Puri sees this as an effort that goes deeper than the act of a donation, saying, “It is important to my family and me, that the School offers not only an exemplary space for the campus and community to interact and innovate, but also where significant programming and curricular advances can benefit both the University and its ability to partner in the economic revival of this region,” adding, “The liberal arts education I received at Rockford significantly contributed to my success and supporting the Puri School of Business is my way of paying it forward.”
Mission & Vision Statements
2020-2021 Mission:
The mission of the Puri School of Business is to prepare students for successful professional careers by blending a strong interdisciplinary foundation with a cutting edge undergraduate and graduate business education. We achieve our mission in an environment characterized by personal attention and experiential learning using innovative teaching techniques, civic engagement, and the latest technology. Our students develop into business and professional leaders of the highest moral character.
Vision statement:
We develop successful students who embrace challenges, develop new ideas, and who understand, envision, and shape the world.
Puri School of Business
5050 E. State Street
Rockford, IL 61108
815-226-4000Luis Romero
Chair of Puri School of Business
LRomero@rockford.edu
815-226-4046
Office of Admission
Johnson Center
5050 E. State Street
Rockford, IL 61108
Phone: 815-226-4050
Fax: 815-226-2822
Email: Admissions@rockford.eduHours
Mon-Fri: 8:30am - 5:00pm
Sat: 9:00am - 1:00pm
Please call to reserve an appointment on Saturdays.
Undergraduate Majors
Undergraduate Minors
Master of Business Administration
Rockford University’s MBA consists of core coursework that helps you develop critical management skills and a deeper understanding of the business field. To complete your degree, select courses from a list of popular business electives or customize your MBA by choosing electives from four in-demand concentrations: Finance, Healthcare Administration, Project Management, and Organizational Leadership.
Learn more at rockford.edu/admission/graduate/mba/.
Our Graduates
“What really sets PURI apart is its diverse, international community of students and faculty. This gave me the chance to build a global network that has been invaluable in my career. The professors were approachable and truly invested in our success, always pushing us to excel.”
“Deciding to attend Rockford University was the best decision of my life! Not only was I able to get a great education, but I was also able to be a part of a campus community that treated me like family and helped develop me into the man I am today. For that, I’m proud to call myself a Regent for life!”
“Having a chance to learn from corporate leaders while learning with future corporate leaders was more than I could ask for. The smaller class sizes and class schedules gave me a very personalized experience and room for a flexible schedule.”
DRAFT Lang Wellness Center Portal Page
02/13/2025 2:53 pm
Emergency
If you have an emergency requiring immediate medical attention,
please call 911 promptly.
Click here for local medical resources.
Forms & Insurance
Immunization, insurance, mental health emergency, health history, and additional forms.
Disability Services
Disability Support Services (DSS) facilitates an accessible education experience for students who have disabilities and serves as a resource to all members of the campus community.
Hours & Contact Information
Counseling Services
Available by appointment
Physician Service
Tuesday afternoons by appointment
Fall/Spring Hours:
Monday – Friday
10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Available by appointment
Summer Hours:
Tuesday – Thursday
10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Available by appointment
Address:
5050 E. State Street
Rockford, IL 61108
Phone: 815-226-4083
Fax: 815-226-3335
HealthCenter@rockford.edu
The mission of Lang Wellness Center is to create a safe and supportive environment to meet the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual needs of the Rockford University community. Differences in ability are valued as an integral component of a diverse community. Disability Support Services (DSS) facilitates an accessible educational experience for students who have disabilities and serves as a resource to all members of the campus community.
We are located north of (behind) Howard Colman Library and west (left) of Cummings Complex, with the entrance door on the southeast corner of the building off of parking lot D.
If you are feeling sick or have been injured and need to see the Lang Wellness Center nurse, please email healthcenter@rockford.edu or call 815-226-4083. Rockford University is following the current CDC recommendations for Covid-19. Please contact Lang Wellness Center with any questions.
Confidentiality Statement
Lang Wellness Center respects and preserves the privacy and confidentiality of all patient and client communications. All visits are confidential. Information cannot be released without the patient’s written consent. Information, whether written, spoken, recorded electronically or printed will receive the same level of protection. As nurses and counselors, we are health professionals that are required by law to report any suspected ongoing child abuse or neglect. In addition to the required mandated report status, the issue of confidentiality may be waived in situations where danger to self or others is imminent.
Meet Our Staff
Kristen Clarke, MSW, LCSW
Director of Lang Wellness
Kristen Clarke received her BSW from University of St. Francis and MSW from Aurora University. She specializes in mood disorders including depression and bipolar, as well as anxiety disorders. Kristen believes that college students are at a unique place in their lives that present new challenges. Kristen works with students to sort out past issues and current stressors to help students navigate through the college years and prepare themselves for their future endeavors.
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Position
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Autumn Schaal, MA, LPC, NCC
Personal Counselor and Disability Support Services Coordinator
Autumn Schaal received her MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Adams State University. Autumn’s areas of interest include: emotional growth, anxiety, and overcoming life stressors. She uses an integrated approach focusing on the whole person, incorporating mindfulness, physical, mental, and emotional well-being, to promote healing through the context of relationship and community. Her goal is to create a space in which students feel safe, accepted, and empowered to sustain positive and fulfilling relationships with both self and others.
Stephanie Garrison, MA, LPC, NCC
Personal Counselor and Mental Health Education Coordinator
Stephanie received her MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Judson University. Her areas of interest include: anxiety and depression, dialectical behavioral therapy, and trauma. Stephanie recognizes that college is a time of great change and development, and she believes in meeting students where they are at and helping them realize their potential by balancing their physical, social, emotional, intellectual and spiritual well-being.
Patty Schneider, RN, BSN
Nurse
Patty received her BSN from NIU in 1989, and worked for 15 years on the Adult Medical/Oncology Unit at Swedish American Hospital. Patty enjoys assisting, educating and empowering students to make healthy choices. She believes that these choices directly impact their future health and vitality.
Laura Godin
Office Manager
Laura received her Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Rockford University. Laura has previously worked in Student Administrative Services at Rockford University and in her role as Office Manager at Lang provides support to all of our students especially in the areas of record keeping, health insurance, both domestic and international, immunizations, and billing.
Who We Are
02/13/2025 8:43 am
JACCE Staff
Dr. Mary Weaks-Baxter is the Director of the Jane Addams Center for Civic Engagement. She has over 30 years of experience teaching in higher education and in college administration, and has worked with students on civic engagement projects on issues ranging broadly from human trafficking and domestic violence to environmental conservation and job equity.
Elizabeth Kromer is a JACCE student worker who designs advertisements, contributes to the food insecurity program Swipe Out Hunger, and organizes information for the center. She is a kinesiology major with a concentration in exercise science at Rockford University, dedicated to making a difference in her community.
Kaeleigh Taylor is one of our student workers focused on sustainability, web design, and civic engagement. She is studying Computer Science focusing on Information System Management and Mathematics focusing on Data Science. After completing 2 years as fellow she is wrapping up her final semester at the center.
Jane Addams Fellows
Sandy Ruiz is a JACCE Fellow dedicated to organizing and presenting events that promote civic engagement and amplify the voices of the community, fostering a deeper connection between campus and local needs. She also is the College Advisor at CFNIL’s IWYT program, a consultant at the Writing Center, and is a monthly visit volunteer for a local Hospice center. She is studying Psychology and English, working to be a resource and aid for the Rockford community.
Jocelyn Solis is a Jane Addams Fellow who focuses on spreading literacy, uplifting student voices, and implementing service projects. She is majoring in Psychology with a minor in Human Development. She is excited to serve as a fellow for the 2024-2025 school year and welcomes new experiences as a learning opportunity.
JACCE Board of Advocates
Kristen Clarke
Director of Lang Health Center
Catherine Forslund
Isabel Ross Abbott Professor; Chair, HAIS
Annie Baddoo
Assistant Professor of Education; Director, MEd in Urban Ed
Ron Lee
Associate Professor, Political Science; Director of First Year Seminar
Amy Martin
Assistant Professor of Psychology
Elaine Sharpe
Professor Emeriti and University Trustee
Kristin Ravel
Assistant Professor of English
Caryn Ruzic
Adjunct, Nursing
Elizabeth Twitty
Assistant Professor of Criminal Justice
Marissa Barnathan
Assistant Professor of Musical Theatre
Rockford University to Present “Pathways to Possibility” Gala
01/13/2025 10:16 am
Rockford, IL—Rockford University is thrilled to announce that tickets are now on sale for the 2025 Pathways to Possibility Gala. This year, all fundraising efforts will support the Student Opportunity Fund at Rockford University.
This year’s Gala will be held on Saturday, February 8, 2025, at 6 p.m. in the Clark Arts Center on Rockford University’s campus. The campus is located at 5050 E. State St. in Rockford, Illinois.
This unique event is an opportunity to invest in the bright futures of our students while enjoying an elegant night filled with engaging stories, fine dining, and entertainment.
The Student Opportunity Fund helps Rockford University students turn aspirations into achievements by providing financial support for transformative experiences like research projects, international trips, conferences, etc.
A donor’s generosity ensures that every student has access to the resources and opportunities they need to thrive.
In addition to culinary delights and entertainment, the Gala will feature a social hour and a Silent Auction with an array of beautiful baskets for sale.
RU students will speak about how trips and experiences supported by the Student Opportunity Fund have impacted them. The event dress code is business formal, or you may come dressed as your favorite explorer or adventurer.
For tickets and more information on the event, head to rockford.edu/gala.
To be a Gala sponsor, please contact Stewardship & Project Manager Lauren Prchal at LPrchal@rockford.edu or 815.394.5190.
For other Gala information please contact Senior Advancement Officer Tanner Elliott at TElliott@rockford.edu or 815.394.5029.
For media inquiries, please contact Rockford University Communications at communications@rockford.edu.
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About Rockford University:
Rockford University, formerly Rockford College, is a four-year, co-educational institution founded in 1847 offering undergraduate and graduate degrees in traditional liberal arts and professional fields. The undergraduate program offers approximately 80 majors, minors, and concentrations, including three 100% online majors through the RU Online program. Five master’s degrees are offered through the graduate program, including a Master of Business Administration (MBA), Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT), Master of Education (M.Ed.), Master of Arts in Sport Management & Leadership (MASM), and Masters of Science in Exercise Physiology (MSEP).
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. Rockford University is proud to hold the prestigious Carnegie Classification for Community Engagement, an elective classification that highlights our dedication to meaningful and impactful partnerships within our local and regional communities. Named by The Princeton Review as a Best Midwestern College and a U.S. News & World Report Best Midwest Regional University, Rockford University currently serves approximately 1,200 full- and part-time students.
Rockford University’s December Recognition Ceremony to Celebrate Student Achievements
12/02/2024 9:17 am
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Dec. 2, 2024
Rockford, Illinois- Rockford University is thrilled to announce its upcoming December Recognition Ceremony, a momentous occasion to honor the achievements of our dedicated students. The ceremony will commence at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, December 7, 2024, at Rockford University in the Clark Arts Theatre located at 5050 E State St., Rockford, Illinois, 61108. This event promises to be a celebration of academic excellence and a culmination of hard work and commitment.
This year’s ceremony will include a keynote address from English Professor Dr. William Gahan, and speeches from University President Dr. Patricia Lynott, and Chair of the Board of Trustees Marci Taets.
As part of the day’s festivities, the university will host a nurse pinning ceremony, recognizing the accomplishments of our nursing graduates. The nurse pinning ceremony is set to take place at 9:00 a.m., preceding the main recognition event. This special occasion highlights the dedication and expertise of our nursing students as they embark on their professional journeys.
Rockford University warmly invites families, friends, faculty, and the community to join us in celebrating the outstanding accomplishments of our graduates. The December Recognition Ceremony is a time-honored tradition, and we look forward to sharing this occasion with everyone.
For further information, please contact Rockford University Marketing/Communications at communications@rockford.edu or Sara Myers-Hogshead at SHogshead@rockford.edu.
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About Rockford University:
Rockford University, formerly Rockford College, is a four-year, co-educational institution founded in 1847 offering undergraduate and graduate degrees in traditional liberal arts and professional fields. The undergraduate program offers approximately 80 majors, minors, and concentrations, including three 100% online majors through the RU Online program. Five master’s degrees are offered through the graduate program, including Master of Business Administration (MBA), Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT), Master of Education (M.Ed.), Master of Arts in Sport Management & Leadership (MASM), and Masters of Science in Exercise Physiology (MSEP).
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. Rockford University is proud to hold the prestigious Carnegie Classification for Community Engagement, an elective classification that highlights our dedication to meaningful and impactful partnerships within our local and regional communities. Named by The Princeton Review as a Best Midwestern College and a U.S. News & World Report Best Midwest Regional University, Rockford University currently serves approximately 1,200 full- and part-time students.
Master of Sport Management and Leadership
11/12/2024 10:41 am
Master of Sport Management and Leadership at Rockford University
The Master of Sport Management and Leadership at Rockford University is designed for individuals passionate about the sport management industry. This program prepares you to lead, manage, and promote sporting events at both minor and major league levels. Practical experience will be embedded in courses.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the sports management industry is poised for growth. The BLS projects an 11% increase in demand for coaches, administrators, managers, agents, and scouts between 2018 and 2028. Additionally, other related roles in the sports industry are expected to grow by 10%.
The Department of Kinesiology is dedicated to advancing our scholars through this comprehensive 36-hour Master’s program, which includes both thesis and practical projects.
Career Paths and Opportunities
As a graduate, you will be prepared for a variety of careers including:
- Athletic Coach
- Athlete Development Specialist
- Athletic Director
- Business Development Coordinator
- Contract Negotiation Manager
- Event Coordinator
- Facilities Manager
- Fitness Manager
- Marketing Consultant
- Operations Manager
- Public Relations Manager
- Recreational Administrator
- Sports Agent
Have Questions?
Graduate admissions counselors are here to help. Please call 815-226-4040 or fill out the form below, and we’ll be in contact with you very soon.
Master of Exercise Physiology
11/05/2024 2:05 pm
Master of Exercise Physiology at Rockford University
The Master of Exercise Physiology is designed for individuals interested in personal health and wellness training, health promotion, and physical rehabilitation. If you want to assist clients in reaching their peak physical wellness, then a degree in exercise physiology might be right for you. Exercise physiologists focus on promoting wellness, helping all athletes (non-professional and competitive) reach their top performance, and preventing illness and injury.
What is Exercise Physiology?
Exercise physiology is the study of the body’s response and ability to adapt to physical activity. Exercise physiology, like exercise science, focuses on how physical activity can improve health, wellness, and rehabilitation. Both are fields of human anatomy study that focus on improving the health and wellness of individuals and athletes. Exercise science is broader, encompassing areas such as physical education, strength and training, human performance and sports nutrition.
Career Paths and Opportunities
Student who earn a Master of Exercise Physiology have numerous career opportunities including becoming an exercise physiologist, a cardiac rehabilitation specialist, a clinical research assistant, and a physical therapy aide.
Have Questions?
Graduate admissions counselors are here to help. Please call 815-226-4040 or fill out the form below, and we’ll be in contact with you very soon.
Game Development
11/05/2024 1:56 pm
Game Development at Rockford University
Game Development as a major track in Computer Science offers a dynamic and creative pathway for students passionate about the intersection of technology and storytelling. This program equips aspiring developers with a solid foundation in programming while emphasizing the unique challenges of designing interactive experiences. Through hands-on projects, collaborative teamwork, and exposure to industry-standard tools, students learn to bring their imaginative ideas to life, preparing them for careers in a rapidly evolving field. As the gaming industry continues to grow and innovate, this major not only cultivates technical skills but also fosters critical thinking and problem-solving abilities essential for success in the digital age. Majoring in the Computer Science track in Game Development offers a blend of technical and creative skills that can open up a wide range of career opportunities.
What is Game Development?
Game development is the process of creating video games, encompassing a range of disciplines including design, programming, art, and sound. It involves several stages: conceptualization, where ideas are generated; design, where the game mechanics and story are outlined; development, where programmers and artists create the game; testing, to ensure functionality and quality; and finally, release and marketing.
Game development is a collaborative effort that brings together various disciplines to create immersive and interactive experiences for players. It combines technical skills, creativity, and teamwork, requiring collaboration among designers, artists, and programmers to produce engaging and immersive experiences for players. The field is continually evolving, integrating new technologies like virtual reality and artificial intelligence, making it an exciting area for innovation and exploration.
Why Game Development?
Majoring in Computer Science with a focus on Game Development offers several compelling advantages. Firstly, it provides a robust foundation in programming, equipping students with essential technical skills that are applicable in various fields beyond gaming. Secondly, the Game Development track fosters creativity and problem-solving abilities, allowing students to translate imaginative ideas into interactive experiences.
Additionally, the gaming industry is thriving, offering diverse career opportunities in areas such as game design, programming, art, and project management. By studying Game Development, students can work on cutting-edge technologies like virtual reality and artificial intelligence, keeping them at the forefront of innovation. Furthermore, the collaborative nature of game development promotes teamwork and communication skills, which are invaluable in any professional setting. Ultimately, this major not only prepares students for a fulfilling career but also allows them to contribute to a medium that shapes culture and entertainment.
Career Paths and Opportunities
Career paths in game development are diverse and cater to various interests and skill sets. Here are some key roles:
- Game Designer: Responsible for creating the game’s concept, mechanics, and overall user experience. They design levels, characters, and storylines.
- Game Programmer: Focuses on coding and technical implementation, including gameplay mechanics, artificial intelligence, and graphics programming.
- Game Artist: Specializes in creating visual content, such as character models, environments, textures, and animations. This role often includes 2D and 3D artists.
- Game Animator: Works on the movement and behavior of characters and objects, bringing them to life through animation techniques.
- Sound Designer: Responsible for creating and implementing audio elements, including sound effects, dialogue, and music that enhance the gaming experience.
- Quality Assurance (QA) Tester: Tests games for bugs, glitches, and overall playability, providing feedback to developers to improve the final product.
- Project Manager: Oversees the game development process, coordinating between teams, managing timelines, and ensuring that the project stays on track.
- Game Writer/Narrative Designer: Crafts the story, dialogue, and character development, focusing on narrative structure and player engagement.
- User Experience (UX) Designer: Analyzes player behavior to design intuitive interfaces and improve overall user experience.
Each of these roles plays a vital part in the game development process, and professionals often collaborate closely to create successful and engaging games. The industry also offers opportunities for entrepreneurship, allowing developers to create and publish indie games independently.
