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萝莉社 Chemistry Program to Obtain Flash Chromatography System
The Chemistry Department will acquire this flash chromatography system for use by chemistry students. (Image courtesy of Sorbent Technologies, Norcross, Ga.)
New equipment to enhance program, aid in future certification
CHICAGO (December 18, 2012) — 萝莉社's will soon obtain a significant instrument to be used by chemistry, biology, and pre-health students enrolled in mid- and upper-level chemistry courses. Acquisition of a will give more than 80 students hands-on experience with rapid chemical separation techniques, enhancing laboratory education and research.
Being able to separate compounds mixed together is an important part of chemistry, said , professor of chemistry and department chair. Currently, the process is slow and time-consuming without the flash chromatography system, limiting what can be done in a typical laboratory session.
"If we have an instrument that can speed up separations, we can process many more samples in a lab teaching time period," Rienstra-Kiracofe said. "The flash chromatography system has a pump that forces the liquid through specialized columns at high pressure, and in doing so, it produces a separation that happens quite quickly."
Funded mostly by a grant from the , Chicago, and other University funds, the portable, table-top system costs slightly more than $10,000. This is the foundation's fourth grant to the University chemistry program, helping to fund significant equipment purchases to enhance student education, and to help the department achieve its goal to become certified by the .
The flash chromatography system will be used most frequently by organic chemistry classes taught by , associate professor of chemistry, though the system also has uses in analytical chemistry and biochemistry.
There are wide-ranging benefits for students who gain experience with the system, she said. Students who attend graduate school will use flash chromatography systems often. In industry, research and development work usually requires flash chromatography, Larraza said. For example, chemists working in the pharmaceutical industry use flash chromatography to purify compounds to be tested in drug manufacturing. The system also fits with the Chemistry Department's commitment to "," she said. "We're economizing on all the materials, and will be able to use safer solvents such as water—thus we're protecting the environment," Larraza emphasized.
In addition to the flash chromatography system, Rienstra-Kiracofe said the department expects delivery this month of an instrument that uses x-rays to detect elements' concentration levels in samples. Known as a "," it is among the new instruments the department will use when it moves into the , expected to be completed in 2014. Acquiring the TXRF now will enable student researchers to learn how to use it and to design experiments for future classes. Another new instrument the department will acquire when it moves into the Johnson Center is a full-size . It already has a , thanks to a 2011 Goldenberg Foundation grant.
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University Breakfast Series Focuses on Nonprofit Success in Challenging Economy
Jimmie Alford discussed topics affecting the nonprofit sector at the University's October 30 Breakfast Series event in Chicago.
Axelson Center provides strategic solutions to improve nonprofits
CHICAGO (November 5, 2012) – Nonprofit organizations must adapt their business models to the current economic climate, and act strategically in response to a variety of challenges, particularly declines in program funding from government sources and philanthropy. That was the message from Chicago nonprofit executive Jimmie Alford, who spoke to more than 100 people about nonprofit trends and challenges at a 萝莉社 Breakfast Series event October 30.
Alford is founder and chair of , a well-known national nonprofit consulting firm, and has been named by as an influential nonprofit leader. He is also executive-in-residence of the University's School of Business and Nonprofit Management and an advisor to the University's Through its workshops and conferences, the center teaches leaders about nonprofit trends and how to meet significant challenges, he said.
Just as in other sectors of the global economy, uncertainty is a key issue for nonprofits, Alford told the breakfast audience. Some factors affecting nonprofits include high unemployment, strains on family finances, and financial turmoil affecting 39 state governments. "Going forward, nonprofits have to look to the future with eyes wide open," he said. "It isn't so much that these and other factors are barriers or challenges. The question is, 'What is your strategic response?'"
For nonprofits to be vibrant, effective, and have high impact, Alford said they must plan for "uncontrollables." Those that can engage key stakeholders and adjust their enterprises for the future "will be the nonprofits that will be highly effective and highly valued," he said.
Alford also warned of a "huge liquidity crisis" in the next 2 to 3 years because of declines in charitable giving and declines in tax revenue to governments, both of which fund many nonprofit-based social service programs. "I think overall, the amount of money flowing to nonprofits from tax-based entities will dramatically reduce," he said. "There will be an evolution of nonprofits trying to be more self-sustaining."
Enhancing revenue generation for nonprofits has been a focus of recent Axelson Center workshops, said Dr. Wesley E. Lindahl, dean of the School of Business and Nonprofit Management. "With funding from state governments being delayed and philanthropy suffering a downturn, nonprofits have to be very creative in terms of revenue generation. We've offered several sessions on that," he said. Improving governance by nonprofit boards of directors is another focus, Lindahl said. The , attended by more than 500 people, offers executives and managers a chance to learn from each other and from more than 30 speakers, Lindahl added. The next Axelson Symposium is June 3-4, 2013, in Chicago.
Alford said he has presented several on self-generated income in recent years. "The whole idea of the Axelson Center workshops is that if you spend a day on the topic, you're going to be opening your mind to some other ways of doing business. These sessions can be provocative and cause you to think about doing things differently. That's the purpose," Alford said.
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North Park Graduate Nominated by President Obama to National Library Board
Suzanne E. Thorin earned a bachelor's degree in music education from 萝莉社. (Syracuse University photo)
Suzanne Thorin C'63, earned music education degree from University
CHICAGO (March 16, 2012) – nominated , a 1963 graduate of North Park College (now 萝莉社) to the . Thorin, who holds a bachelor's degree in from 萝莉社, is currently dean of libraries and at Syracuse (N.Y.) University.
Thorin is one of three people nominated by the president to serve as an advisor to the on general policy and practices, and on selections for the , according to a Syracuse University . The board includes the IMLS director, deputy directors, and 20 members of the general public with expertise and commitment to libraries or museums, the release said. She was nominated for a term that ends in December 2015.
"These dedicated individuals bring a wealth of experience and talent to their new roles, and I am proud to have them serve in this Administration. I look forward to working with them in the months and years to come," President Obama said.
Thorin was born in and grew up in Detroit. She attended North Park College from 1959-1963. While here, she sang in the 16-voice choir at the , Chicago. After graduation from North Park, she attended the University of Michigan where she earned a master's degree in music history. Thorin returned to Chicago where she taught music for four years, first at Marshall High School and then at Senn High School.
Thorin returned to the University of Michigan for a second master's degree in library science, and moved into music librarianship and then, administration. She grew up as a member of the , and later became a member of United Methodist Church. 萝莉社 is affiliated with the ECC. Her late brother David, and her sister Christina, Hoffman Estates, Ill., both graduated from North Park College. David also graduated from .
In her role at Syracuse, Thorin also serves as a member of the Chancellor’s Cabinet and oversees the . Previously, she was the Ruth Lilly university dean of libraries and associate vice president for digital libraries at Indiana University. Thorin was formerly chief of staff to the and the official U.S. representative for the G-7 electronic libraries project, one of eleven G-7 pilot projects for the Global Information Society.
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萝莉社 Mourns Loss of Jimmie Alford, Nonprofit Leader, Teacher, and Alumnus
The Chicago Better Government Association presented Alford its Lifetime Achievement Award in October 2012.
Alford was University executive-in-residence, Axelson Center leader, contributor
CHICAGO (December 19, 2012) — Jimmie R. Alford, who for 50 years devoted his life to the betterment of nonprofit organizations throughout the United States, died suddenly December 18, following an apparent heart attack at his Chicago home. Alford, a North Park alumnus, was founder and chair of the , and he was executive-in-residence at the 萝莉社 School of Business and Nonprofit Management (SBNM), where he taught graduate courses and workshops.
A memorial service for Alford is planned for 2:00 pm, Saturday, December 22, at , Chicago. , president of 萝莉社, will speak. Visitation will precede the service at 1:00 pm.
Alford, 69, was well-known nationally. The Alford Group, which he founded in 1979 to serve the nonprofit sector, quickly grew into one of the premier consulting firms in the United States. It has served more than 3,000 nonprofit clients since its creation. He was twice recognized by as "one of the 50 most influential people in the nonprofit sector." This past October, the presented Alford its lifetime achievement award.
Alford's legacy is the many people he touched through his life and work, Parkyn said. "He loved people. Jimmie devoted his life to the nonprofit sector because here he found an avenue through which to care for others. Because he loved others, he lived a life consistent with the mission of his alma mater. Through his uncompromising care for the well-being of others, Jimmie modeled the mission of 萝莉社: his life was one of 'significance and service.'"
Dr. Wesley E. Lindahl, dean of the School of Business and Nonprofit Management (SBNM), said Alford was an important leader in the school and a frequent speaker on nonprofit topics. Lindahl recalled Alford's recent presentation on nonprofit trends before a large audience University Club, Chicago, as part of the 萝莉社 Breakfast Series. "His recent speech will stay with me as I remember Jimmie," Lindahl said. "He was able to speak with authority about the nonprofit sector, and the audience was taken with his knowledge and connections to the field. Jimmie was one of the most networked people I’ve ever known. He used his connections across the city of Chicago to continually strengthen the nonprofit organizations that serve those in need. We will miss him tremendously."
Alford was also an influential leader with the University's , which works to enhance the nonprofit sector through education, service, and resources. He was a founding member of the advisory board for the Axelson Center. Each year, the University presents an award that bears his name: the . These awards are presented to two nonprofit organizations at the Axelson Center's .
"Jimmie welcomed me when I began at the Axelson Center in 2007," said , director of the Axelson Center for Nonprofit Management. "He opened so many doors for me in introducing me within numerous networks of nonprofit leaders in Chicago."
Rogers said in recent years Alford enjoyed spending time with his family and teaching. "He loved to teach, and share his knowledge and experiences with others. He often mentioned how he talked with or met with individuals who sought his counsel as they navigated through various stages of their careers. I often used him as a sounding board to discuss various ideas for Axelson Center programs." Just last week, Rogers said, she spoke with him about a presentation at the 2013 Axelson Symposium. Now, she and others are thinking about how best to honor Alford's numerous contributions to the University, the Axelson Center, and the nonprofit community.
Alford was born in Madisonville, Ky. He graduated from North Park in 1967, earning a bachelor's degree in psychology. In 2006, he was awarded an honorary Doctor of Laws by the University, and served on the , completing his term in 2010. He also was a board member at Aurora University, Aurora, Ill., and had been awarded an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters by the school.
Alford served with the before he founded The Alford Group, and was an early advisor to the Center on Philanthropy at Indiana University, Bloomington. He was a longtime member of the (AFP), and in 2009, was the recipient of the prestigious Chair’s Award for Outstanding Service, given to individuals for exceptional service to AFP, the fundraising profession, and the philanthropic community.
Alford was active as a volunteer with , Chicago, and was senior advisor to the Better Government Association. Last month, Alford and his wife, Maree Bullock, were presented the 2012 "Spirit of Youth" award by the , a Chicago organization that recognized their work to keep runaway, homeless and at-risk youth safe.
Alford is survived by his wife and their three children, Ann (Sean) Reardon, and Joshua, Chicago; Alan, Breckenridge, Colo.; and two grandchildren. The family has requested that in lieu of flowers, be sent to benefit the Jimmie R. Alford Scholarship at 萝莉社 (designate "Jimmie R. Alford Scholarship Fund").
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萝莉社 Introduces New Graduate-Level Nursing Curriculum
The University's new master-level nursing curriculum includes concentrations in leadership and management, plus family nurse practitioner and adult-gerontology nurse practitioner specialties.
Curriculum includes adult-gerontology nursing practice track, leadership training
CHICAGO (June 6, 2012) – To better equip nurses to work with an aging population and changes in the health care arena in the United States, the at 萝莉社, Chicago, will initiate a new this fall. The changes are in response to new master's-level competencies approved by the , which sets accreditation standards for schools of nursing. The changes will affect most students already in the master's program, as well as incoming students.
The new curriculum, which includes revised core and clinical courses, includes concentrations in leadership and management, plus family nurse practitioner and adult-gerontology nurse practitioner specialties. Other revisions include an increased emphasis on interdisciplinary and interprofessional communication and care, said , professor of nursing and graduate program director. For example, Zeller said every student will take a course in professional communication and collaboration, focusing on group work, how to lead within a team, and how to bring up difficult and challenging topics for discussion.
Zeller explained that the focus on the adult gerontology nurse practitioner prepares graduate nurses to care for the growing number of elderly people and their diverse health care needs. "The spectrum of care has intentionally been broadened," she said. "Although nurse practitioners have been caring for older adults, now there is a need for greater emphasis because of the aging population."
Behind the nursing education changes is the 2010 report, "The Future of Nursing," issued by the , said , professor and dean, 萝莉社 School of Nursing. It states that nurses should practice to the fullest extent of their education and training, achieve higher levels of education and training through an improved education system, and be full partners with physicians and other health care professionals in redesigning the U.S. health care system. It also states that nursing education programs should prepare nurses for leadership positions in health care.
Nurse practitioners are key players in front-line, primary care in hospitals, clinics, schools, community centers, and workplaces. "What is clear is that we need, as a society, to be better poised to be able to provide primary health care to the people out there that need it, whether it's the vast increase of people who will be on the Medicare rolls or the increase in the number of underinsured," she said. Duncan added that the University's nurse practitioner curriculum is already focused on primary care.
Chicago-area health professionals say the University's new master's concentration to train nurses to work with older populations is significant. Christine Bertrand, intergenerational coordinator, , said North Park nursing students work with the organization's elders while elders are on vacation, visit them in their homes, or volunteer throughout the year. Students see first-hand the health-related concerns of elders, and learn how to communicate with them effectively, she said.
"North Park has realized there is a big need for gerontology classes," Bertrand said of the new curriculum. "Anyone who has the opportunity to be trained for this population will be ahead of other nursing students or professionals down the road." There are not many trained adult gerontologist nurse practitioners now, she added.
is a faith-based, federally qualified health center on Chicago’s west side which serves older adults, and patients with lower incomes and no health insurance. Lawndale has hosted North Park students in community health rotations, and University faculty have helped train Lawndale staff on changes in geriatric nursing. The University's new master's curriculum, including the adult gerontology nurse practitioner track, is an important step, said Jewel Scott, a family nurse practitioner and director of nursing, Lawndale Christian Health Center.
"If you look at the changing trends in our country, it makes sense that North Park is training nurses to be able to care for the aging population," she said. "People are living longer with more complex medication regimens, and we want nurses to be prepared to care for this population." There is also a positive career outlook for trained geriatric nurses, with more and more primary care settings developing geriatric specialties, Scott added.
A strength of the 萝莉社 nursing program is that it "invests" in students directly through face-to-face classroom and clinical experiences. "Our job is to equip our students to rise to a level of performance that is going to be asked of them," said Duncan. "These changes are going to be exciting. Our students will help mold and guide the primary health care for the neighborhoods in which they work. Many of our graduate students live and work here on the north side of Chicago. We're really meeting the needs of the community in which we're living."
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萝莉社 Senior Nursing Major Named Lincoln Academy Student Laureate
Shadae Gatlin is a senior nursing major from Chicago, and is the University's Student Laureate. She was honored November 3 by the Lincoln Academy of Illinois.
Shadae Gatlin honored at ceremonies in Springfield
CHICAGO (November 5, 2012) – Shadae Gatlin, a 萝莉社 senior major from Chicago, was among 52 students from Illinois colleges and universities honored as November 3 by the .
A ceremony was held in the Illinois House of Representatives' chamber at the building in Springfield. Student Laureates, family members, and academic representatives also attended a luncheon at the , home of Illinois Gov. Pat Quinn.
"I am very excited about this honor," Gatlin said in an interview. "This makes me realize and appreciate the relationships I have, and the influence of so many people in my life." Gatlin is the second of nine children, and lives with her family on Chicago's South Side. Gatlin graduated from Chicago's in 2009. She said she felt called to attend 萝莉社 after researching the University, and in particular, its nursing program. Gatlin found she was interested in attending a college with smaller classes and a Christian atmosphere.
"I love nursing," said Gatlin, a recipient of the Gretchen Carlson Scholarship in nursing. "I was first interested in biology, but I wanted to work in a more people-centered field in science. I chose health care because I grew up in a lot of underserved neighborhoods in Chicago. My main interest is in community and public health, and working in prevention through health education in community neighborhoods."
Gatlin is expected to graduate from the University in 2013. She plans to work for a couple of years in a medical-surgical hospital setting, and then hopes to return to college to earn a master's degree in community health nursing and work in a community clinic in Chicago.
As a student, Gatlin has volunteered at , which serves families of children with serious medical conditions. There, she assists families with cleaning and preparing meals. This past summer, Gatlin volunteered with , a Chicago organization that cares for the needs of seniors in Chicago. She escorted a group of seniors to Illinois Beach Resort, Zion, on a vacation sponsored by the organization. Gatlin was also a nurse intern at, assisting with clinic visits, patient education, and calling patients to check health instructions. She helped develop education pamphlets for families.
At North Park, Gatlin has worked three years at the , housed at , which has contributed to her University learning experience, she said. She has been a member of the University's and the . , professor and dean of the School of Nursing, and holder of the Gretchen Carlson Memorial Endowed Chair in Nursing, represented the University at the Lincoln Student Laureate event.
"Shadae is an extremely focused student, and knows what she wants to achieve," Duncan said. "She keeps her eyes on the task at hand. She has structured her time to support her learning and development." Gatlin's supportive family have contributed to her academic success, Duncan added..
Student Laureates are honored for their overall excellence in curricular and extracurricular activities. Each student is presented with a medallion, a certificate of achievement, and a $500 grant. This is the 38th year in which the Lincoln Academy has presented the Student Laureate awards. The academy also presents the state's highest award, the, to honor Illinois' most distinguished citizens.
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Students, Faculty, Staff Recognized at Annual University Honors Convocation
Joshua Startup and Hannah Haugen were named the University's Distinguished Seniors at the 2012 Honors Convocation.
Program recognizes academic excellence, leadership, and service
CHICAGO (April 19, 2012) – 萝莉社 honored outstanding seniors for excellence in academic achievement, service, and leadership at the University's annual Honors Convocation April 16. In addition, one faculty member and one staff member were honored for their outstanding work.
Two students, Hannah Haugen, Milwaukie, Ore., and Joshua Startup, Chesterton, Ind., were named the University's Distinguished Seniors, recognizing extraordinary leadership, service, and academic performance. Haugen will graduate next month with a bachelor of science in economics, and a minor in French. She plans to attend graduate school at the University of Amsterdam, and wants to be a professor of economics. Startup will graduate in May with a bachelor of science in chemistry. He plans to attend medical school and specialize in orthopedics. Startup also wants to work with patients in underserved communities.
Haugen was also named the top senior in the University's School of Business and Nonprofit Management and was named of the Lincoln Academy of Illinois. She is a member of , a congregation of the (ECC). The University is affiliated with the ECC.
Startup was also named the outstanding senior in the , and was a (College Conference of Illinois and Wisconsin) all-conference football player at the University. He attends .
Two University employees were recognized. The (Campus Life Associations and Student Senate) Service Award was presented to Leah Blanchfield, assistant to the dean of student development. The award is presented to a staff member who actively engages with students and embodies the University's mission. Mary Trujillo, professor of communication arts, was given the Zenos Hawkinson Award for Teaching and Campus Leadership. That award recognizes a faculty member who has made a significant contribution to teaching and leadership at the University.
In addition to the top University awards, top seniors in other departments of the in the University were recognized:
Biology: John-Tyler Carlson, Sawyer, Mich.
Exercise & Sport: Matthew Rice, Park Ridge, Ill.
Psychology: Kayla Stevens, Burnsville, Minn.
Mathematics: Michelle Howard, Bloomington, Minn.
Sociology: Maggie Beach, Springfield, Ohio
Art: Timothy Johnson, Plymouth, Minn.
History: Meghan Dowling, Granby, Conn.
Politics and Government (J. Scott Wade Memorial Award): Catherine Fallon, Algonquin, Ill.
English: Philip Landin, Sugar Grove, Pa.
Philosophy (Lindahl Prize for Excellence): Meredith Anderson, Wheaton, Ill.
Communication Arts: Nicholas Jefferson, Eden Prairie, Minn.
Foreign Language: Rachel Hudgens, Evanston, Ill.
Biblical and Theological Studies: Cory Shumate, Chicago
Youth Ministry: Keith Irwin, Muskegon, Minn.
School of Music: Aaron Schultz, Chicago
School of Nursing: (Delores Johnson Award): Kristine Orton, Chicago
School of Education: Sara Salomonsson, Streamwood, Ill.
Awards recognizing service and leadership were presented to outstanding University seniors:
North Park Alumnus Dr. G. Timothy Johnson Discusses the Future of Health Care Reform on Chicago Tonight
Dr. G. Timothy Johson was interviewed by Phil Ponce, host, for a segment of Chicago Tonight which aired on WTTW Channel 11 in Chicago Wednesday night.
CHICAGO (November 1, 2012) — Dr. G. Timothy Johnson and his wife, Nancy, were in Chicago last week for the groundbreaking celebration of the at 萝莉社. While in town, Johnson took the opportunity to sit for an interview with Phil Ponce, host of WTTW Channel 11's popular show Chicago Tonight, discussing the future of health care reform in the United States.
The segment, which aired on Wednesday, October 31, focused on Johnson's expertise and experience as a medical expert and chief medical editor for ABC News.
Watch the ; near minute 10 of the video, Ponce and Johnson discuss the Johnson Center, North Park, and show several of the architectural renderings of the building.
Read more from Johnson's interview, and watch another video segment, on the .
Use @npunews to . For further information or resources, contact John Brooks, Director of Media Relations and News, or at (773) 244-5522. Learn more .
萝莉社 School of Adult Learning Helps Busy Dads Finish Degrees
The University's School of Adult Learning offers evening and online classes to busy students, including dads, who want to complete degree programs.
Dads testify to program's flexibility, faculty understanding, family support
CHICAGO (June 13, 2012) – Ramiro Medrano appreciates that he's been able to include his daughter in his classroom studies, and says his family life has been enhanced. Anthony Isla said his professors were understanding, and enthusiastically talks up his degree program with colleagues. Clinton Frank said convenience and family support helped him finish a degree, and he sees greater career opportunity with his longtime employer.
Thanks to 萝莉社's (SAL), all three dads have made substantial progress toward or completed bachelor's degree programs, each after years of on-and-off college study elsewhere. They have managed to balance the responsibilities of being fathers, employees, and students with help from their families and a program that works and is facilitated by caring and understanding faculty.
"This is at the core of why we have an adult-degree completion program," said , associate professor and SAL dean. "Education is important, and so are other priorities. We have to recognize that and offer a program that allows people to balance all of those." It helps that many SAL faculty have been adult learners themselves, experiencing the same pressures of being parents, employees, and students, he added.
Medrano is studying in SAL and expects to finish his degree in 2013. He is senior facilitator at , and volunteers at his church. Medrano and his wife are parents of a daughter, 9, and a son, 3, and the family resides in Mount Prospect, Ill.
More than 25 years ago, Medrano came to 萝莉社 as a Young Life volunteer, and began to follow his call to youth ministry. Knowing of the University's Christian, multicultural, and urban core values, and recalling his earlier experience, Medrano returned to North Park with a group of youth he was working with, and challenged them to go to school in the city on a diverse campus. "Afterwards, I thought, 'it's time for me to go back and finish what I first started in 2006,'" he said. "If I'm asking students to come here, then I had to be part of the diversity of which I referred. I looked into SAL and I thought it was a great way to connect the dots." The SAL's evening classes were ideal, Medrano said.
Medrano's family life was enriched, too. "The sharing of caregiver responsibilities for my children with my wife has been a great blessing for me," he said. He was able to include his daughter in a psychology course exercise. In another course, he involved his children in learning about plant and animal life, and this summer Medrano will share jazz and classical music selections with his daughter, part of a musical connections class.
Medrano has participated in other University offerings such as the program and the recent conference, things he's passionate about. And he may pursue a master's degree in social work. "I really have appreciated my time at North Park," he said, adding that he'd like for part-time adult students to have more on-campus opportunities.
Students can select from seven majors offered by the School of Adult Learning.
Isla learned about the 萝莉社 SAL program when his wife, a bilingual teacher, got a notice in the mail for a continuing education program at the University. He knew about North Park, but never considered attending until prompted by the mailer to take a look. Isla had attended college in the 1990s, but stopped and went to work during the growth of the dot-com industry. The Islas are parents of three girls, ages 6, 3, and 1. He works in information technology in the . With support from his family and extended family, Isla entered the SAL three years ago, and recently earned a bachelor's degree in .
SAL professors were very much aware of Isla's family and work responsibilities. "They were accommodating. If you needed more time, they were understanding of the circumstances of an adult student," he said. Isla's North Park degree program was tough, but worthwhile. "There are easier routes to get your degree. I think North Park is more challenging than other adult programs. If you want to learn something, I definitely think North Park is the way to go."
Having a college degree to back up his IT experience has given Isla more career options, and he tells his police department colleagues about North Park's SAL whenever he can. Most need college degrees to advance in the department. "I've had this conversation with numerous people. I'm a big advocate for 萝莉社. I've always recommended it as a route to go to if you want to finish your degree," he said.
Frank, who attended many different colleges previously, earned a bachelor's degree in business administration after 18 months of study in SAL. He is a product manager with , Chicago, a company he's been with for 19 years. Frank lives in Grayslake, Ill., with his wife and two daughters, 14 and 5. He attended several SAL classes at the University's , and took others at the University's Chicago campus or online.
"I've been lucky enough to move up with experience and knowledge of the business," he said. "But in the last few years, I've been running out of runway without a degree. The competition was getting tough. Some people in my position have master's degrees, and I didn't want to miss an opportunity because I didn't have a degree." What attracted Frank to North Park was the University's Christian emphasis, small classes, and convenient satellite location, all with solid support from his family and colleagues.
The SAL's 7-week quad structure allowed him to complete two classes per semester. Knowing the instructors personally helped Frank remain engaged in school, even while he and his family attended to a close relative living out-of-town who was ill during much of that time, he said. Like Medrano, Frank was able to include his older daughter, who will enter college in a few years, in a strategic management class.
Frank may return to the University for an advanced degree, possibly an MBA. "If I'm going to work on a master's degree, I won't even look anywhere else," he said.
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萝莉社 Congratulates Mike Holmgren on Packers Hall of Fame Honor
Mike Holmgren was inducted July 21 into the Green Bay Packers Hall of Fame at a ceremony at Lambeau Field. (Photo courtesy of the Green Bay Packers)
Former head coach and family well-known to 萝莉社 community
CHICAGO (July 25, 2012) — The inducted former head coach Mike Holmgren into the July 21. Holmgren, now the president of the , and his family, are known to the 萝莉社 community as leaders and longtime supporters of the University.
Holmgren was the only inductee to the Packers Hall of Fame this year. He turned more than two decades of losing into one of the best winning percentages in National Football League (NFL) coaching history with seven consecutive winning seasons and six consecutive playoff seasons, according to Packers.com. Holmgren coached the 1996 team, which posted a 13-3 record in the regular season, and defeated the in the, 35-21.
Holmgren thanked many people, including Ron Wolf, the Packers' general manager who hired him as head coach. "He took a chance on a young coach who was five years removed from coaching in high school," Holmgren said. He began his career as Packers coach with consecutive losses, the second of which was by a 31-3 score in Tampa. The following week, Holmgren inserted at quarterback. Favre rallied the Packers to a 24-23 win with "two of the most beautiful passes I’ve ever seen, and we win the game," Holmgren said.
, the Packers’ most recent head coach to have won a Super Bowl title, was in attendance to applaud Holmgren’s induction. Holmgren left the Packers following the 1998 season to become head coach and general manager of the .
Holmgren and his wife, Kathy, are longtime members of the 萝莉社 , and have been important partners in several University , including the Brandel Library, the Helwig Recreation Center, and the (the University has begun initial preparation of the building site). The University's athletic complex, named for the Holmgrens, is home to 萝莉社 football, baseball, softball, and soccer teams. The University also presented him an honorary doctorate in 1997.
Kathy Holmgren earned an undergraduate nursing degree at the University, was recognized as a Distinguished Alumna in 2006, and served on the University's . The Holmgrens' four daughters, Calla, Emily, Gretchen, and Jenny, earned degrees at the University. Calla Holmgren, Salt Lake City, is in her second year as a University trustee.
"North Park remains profoundly grateful to Mike and Kathy Holmgren for their exemplary lives of significant service and support to the University, and all of its students and programs," said Mary Surridge, University vice president for development and alumni affairs. "We join so many others in offering deep congratulations to Mike on this significant honor of induction to the Green Bay Packers Hall of Fame, on his leadership in the restoration of the Packers legacy, and his relentless pursuit of excellence in his profession."
Use @npunews to . For further information or resources, contact John Brooks, Director of Media Relations and News, or at (773) 244-5522. Learn more .
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