Distinguished Seniors

Chase Friel C’23 and Elizabeth Joing C’23 were selected to receive the 2023 Distinguished Senior awards at this spring’s Honors Convocation.

Both women, who were double majors, honors program students, and involved in Student Government Association (SGA), were nominated by faculty members for the awards. Friel was nominated by Professor of Politics and Government Jon Peterson and Joing by Professor of Biology Drew Rholl.

Friel, who graduated with a BA in Politics and Government and Biblical and Theological Studies, and Joing, who received a BS in Environmental Science and a BA in Spanish, were able to connect their varied coursework to off-campus opportunities and then share their knowledge and experiences with the North Park community.

Friel’s research at NPU led her to Liverpool Hope University to study Brexit, and then to the University of Illinois Chicago to study fair housing. She then presented her learnings to fellow North Parkers in Peterson’s class.

“Friel is a leader in the classroom, engaging in discussions and asking questions that reflect her thoughtful engagement,” said Peterson. Throughout her projects and research, Friel was able to combine her interests in both religion and politics, and she will pursue a master’s degree at the University of Turku in Finland.

Joing coordinated with a group of experts from various institutions and NPU to propagate native plants for distribution and education in our neighborhood.

“I am amazed by what Ellie has not only been a part of, but what she has accomplished for the betterment of her fellow students, our university, and the world,” said Rholl.

While at North Park, Friel was involved in SGA and on the board for the newly formed Center for Civic Engagement. Joing led the SGA Sustainability Committee and competed in cross country and ultimate frisbee. She also served as environmental consultant to NPU’s carbon-neutral orchestra, and as supplemental instructor and writing advisor for botany, zoology, and Spanish.