North Parker Summer 2010

NORTH PARKER The magazine for alumni and friends of North Park University

SUMMER 2010 / VOLUME 70 / NUMBER 3

Voices from Commencement - 2 Blending Art and Faith - 10

Teaching Is An Act of Faith In the classroom and laboratory, we can measure how well students master course content. On the sports field, game statistics provide some measure of student success. We watch students develop as leaders through participation in campus activities and student government. Each spring, we know when students are admitted to graduate school or are offered jobs following internship assignments.

Yet teaching reaches farther than this. Teaching is about shaping the whole person, fostering a love of continuous learning, embedding life convictions of service to others, enabling good citizenship, directing faith-filled living. These higher goals are not so easily measured. And so faculty and staff at colleges and universities across the land wonder, “Have I taught well? Did my teaching transform lives or merely credential individuals for their respective profession?”

We learn the answers to these higher questions only over time. Five years, ten years, even twenty and thirty years are necessary to measure how well we taught, to determine whether the students under our care were truly “prepared for lives of significance and service.”

We who teach do not know the outcome of our effort until generations have passed.

We teach today only by faith. This faith is prompted by alumni, those students who came before us. They did not study in our classroom or play on our team; rather, they were part of an earlier generation of North Parkers. We were not their teachers. Yet in them, through the evidence of their lives, we see by faith, we look into the future of those presently in our classrooms and gain confidence that they, too, will one day lead lives of significance and service.

Today’s alumni are the testimony we require. They are “the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen”—for teaching is an act of faith.

NORTH PARKER STAFF MANAGING EDITOR Jennifer Kirkland University Editor

EDITORIAL BOARD David Parkyn President Lilian Samaan G’2008 Director of External Relations Joseph Jones Provost Charles Peterson C’73 Dean of the College Mary K. Surridge Vice President of Development and Alumni Relations Melissa Vélez-Luce C’2004 Alumni Relations Manager Marit (Johnson) Awes C’2003 Alumni Stewardship Coordinator

EDITORIAL STAFF Lilian Samaan G’2008 Art Director Emily Wulff C’2009 Designer Rebecca Padgett Publications Project Manager Eric Staswick C’2009 Photographer

The North Parker is published three times a year for alumni and friends of North Park University, 3225 West Foster Avenue, Chicago, Ill. 60625-4895.

For mailing list adjustments and address changes, please contact the Office of Alumni Relations at (773) 244-5273. Questions, letters, or suggestions for the editor should be directed to the Office of External Relations at the above address, or (773) 244-5796.

Find the North Parker online, at www.northpark.edu/ northparker.

On the cover: The Willow Creek Community Church Worship Services team inspires thousands of people through various creative pathways.

The magazine for alumni and friends of North Park University

SUMMER 2010 / VOLUME 70 / NUMBER 3

FEATURES Blending Art and Faith

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Physical Plant custodian Ivan Hadzhiminov painted his first icon in secret in Bulgaria. Now he donates them freely to Chicago churches, organizations, and friends.

by Jennifer Kirkland

Array of Alumni Excellence Page 18

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No matter which paths North Park University graduates walk, they carry with them the drive to engage actively with the church, the community, and the world, distinguishing us and them.

by Jennifer Kirkland

Sports Teams Sail Record-High Waves

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In an exciting and victorious season, the 2009–2010 Vikings set some of the best team and individual records seen in a decade.

by Kevin Shepke

DEPARTMENTS News From Around Campus Faculty Essay

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Ilsup Ahn, Associate Professor of Philosophy

Donor Profile

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Dr. Tim C’74 and Linda (Metcalf) Nelson C’75

Page 12

Alumni Notes

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Alumni Profiles

Page 2

Operation My People

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Rus Bradburd C’80

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David D’Antonio C’2008

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Greetings from Scandinavia!

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NEWS FROM AROUND CAMPUS

Congratulations to the

Class of North Park University held three commencement convocations on the same day for the first time this May. Throughout the day, 286 traditional students received undergraduate degrees, 33 adult students completed undergraduate programs, 84 students were awarded graduate degrees in education, nursing, business, and music, and 37 seminarians were awarded master’s degrees.

On the night before commencement, a University-wide Baccalaureate Service was hosted at Fourth Presbyterian Church on North Michigan Avenue in Chicago. Attended by graduates from all programs, along with their family and friends and North Park faculty, this service offered the opportunity to reflect on the students’ years at North Park and their immediate future. President David Parkyn addressed the graduating students and noted: “Life transitions, like the one we celebrate tonight, are moments ripe for listening. On this night before you receive a North Park diploma and then enter the next part of your life’s journey, you would be wise to listen, to listen to the voice of God.” An honorary Doctor of Humane Letters was presented to psychologist and popular author Kevin Leman. Well-known for his books on the role of birth order in developing personality, Leman humored the audience with comments about his own academic difficulties while an undergraduate at North Park. Leman also told the graduating students that their

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family and friends who jammed the auditorium were “really not here to celebrate your accomplishments as much as they’re here to celebrate your life.”

An honorary Doctor of Sacred Theology was presented to Rev. Glenn Palmberg, recent past president of the Evangelical Covenant Church.

Rev. Palmberg pastored the Evangelical Covenant Church in Olathe, Kansas, and then served as Superintendent of the North Pacific Conference prior to his appointment as eighth president of the denomination. Throughout his ministry, he has been well-regarded for addressing the realities of poverty and injustice as well as the systemic issues that gave rise to them.

Members of the 1960 graduating classes, from the Academy, Junior College, College, and Seminary, were invited to campus during the commencement weekend and welcomed to the Golden Circle, marking their 50th reunion year as alumni of North Park. These graduates marched in golden robes in the commencement services, and undergraduates were treated to a rousing rendition of the Alma Mater while processing into the Carlson Gym, where the Golden Circle inductees were greeted with applause by the graduates and their families as they entered. Following the commencement ceremony, celebrants were honored at a luncheon hosted by University President David Parkyn, and given personalized certificates and memory books as gifts from the Office of Alumni Relations.

Seminary Honorary Doctorate recipient Glenn Palmberg

NEWS FROM AROUND CAMPUS

2010 Academy Class of 1960

Undergraduate students

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Congratulations to the

Class of Baccalaureate held at Fourth Presbyterian Church

Undergraduate Honorary Doctorate Recipient Kevin Leman

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Junior College Class of 1960

Undergraduate commencement ceremony

NEWS FROM AROUND CAMPUS

2010

Two Students Win Fulbright Awards North Park University is proud to announce that Ruth Blidar and Laura Johnson have been honored with Fulbright English Teaching Assistant awards, which will enable them to teach English abroad for a year following their graduation in May. Blidar and Johnson are the fourth and fifth recipients of Fulbright awards at North Park University in the last three consecutive years.

The daughter of Romanian immigrants and a history major, Blidar said, “I enjoy learning history because it’s all stories, and I love getting to know people and their stories. I can’t wait to meet my students in Romania and learn about them, as well as share my stories with them.”

Graduate students

A biology and Spanish major, Johnson chose biology as a path to a career in medicine, and Spanish as a gateway to the vibrant Latino community and culture of North Park’s Albany Park neighborhood. “I hope to sharpen my understanding and practice of the culture and language of my Latino friends and neighbors in Chicago,” said Johnson, “and I want to use this experience teaching in Mexico as a means to achieve mutuality in relationships between Mexicans and Americans.”

Dr. Linda Parkyn has championed promising North Park students and coached them through the Fulbright preparation and application process, including award winners Riley Clark in 2009 and Rebecca Miller in 2008. “The Fulbright program changes students’ lives forever,” says Parkyn. “It offers a wonderful opportunity to meet the people of the world and figure out your place in it.”

Seminary Class of 1960

Blidar said, “My plan is to learn from my Fulbright experience working with Romanians to be a better teacher.” Johnson, who has been accepted at the University of Illinois at Chicago Medical School and will begin her studies there in 2011, said, “I hope to be a family practice doctor and work in an underserved area of Chicago or other big city with a sizable Latino population. I still don’t quite believe it. It feels like a dream! It has been fun to share the news with my friends, family, and North Park professors who have supported me tremendously throughout this process. This award is an accomplishment for all of us.”

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North Park University Faculty and The Covenant Companion Win Awards

culture and education exchange with several Chinese universities.

An article by North Park professor Dr. Linda Parkyn was one of several in an issue of The Covenant Companion that received a Best of Christian Press Award of Excellence (first place) from the Associated Church Press (ACP).

Four authors contributed articles to the issues.

Parkyn wrote “How Do We Welcome the Newcomer?”

Guangdong University of Foreign Studies invited Dr. Lindahl to teach the course after biology professor Dr. Timothy Lin visited universities in China and initiated the plans.

Lin, a Taiwan native, said, “I knew of several Chinese schools that were looking for foreign partners, so I proposed to Provost Jones that we reach out and make some Chinese friends.

These universities want to know two things primarily: how we run our schools and how we interact with students.”

The magazine earned the honor in the “In-Depth Coverage: Magazine” category for its September 2009 issue that focused on immigration. The awards were announced during the ACP’s annual convention in Washington, D.C.

North Park is currently discussing crosscultural teaching and learning opportunities with four universities in China. All these universities are committed to expanding their offerings of courses taught in English, and some are conTwo North Park Theologi- sidering shifting cal Seminary faculty also to total Englishearned awards: Former language teaching President and Dean John E. Phelan, Jr. earned e n v i r o n m e n t s . an honorable mention for his regular column They are curious “Markings”. John Weborg, Professor Emeritus to experience the American style of interacof Theology, received an honorable mention for tive learning, which is relatively unknown his seasonal article “Reflections on Torture Part in China.

III,” which appeared in the December issue.

This summer, North Park’s welcomes 21 facThe Convenant Companion is the monthly ulty members from Leshan Teachers’ College magazine of the Evangelical Covenant Church. to take ESL classes. And in the fall, North Park will greet a visiting scholar from Beijing Dr. Lindahl Teaches MBA Union University, who will observe three biolCourse in China ogy courses. “This will be beneficial for Beijing Union University and for North Park,” said Dr. Wesley Lindahl, Dean of the School of Lin. “It’s free to us, we get all the benefits of Business and Nonprofit Management, taught a cultural exchange, and it opens the door to an intensive Change Management course at new transfer students from China.”

Guangdong University of Foreign Studies in Guangzhou, China, beginning in May. This Lindahl said, “We hope this will be the start of class kicked off what North Park Univer- a broader relationship with this university and sity hopes will be an ongoing relationship of others in China.” Dr. Lin echoed that hope, 6

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and added that prospects for rewarding and enduring partnerships are strong. “In Chinese ideology,” he said, “children’s education is the most important priority.”

North Park Honored with Two Advertising Awards North Park University was recently honored with a silver award for its wall calendar series, along with a merit award for its outdoor advertising campaign, in the 25th Annual Admissions Educational Advertising Awards—the largest educational advertising competition in the country.

Featuring photographic portraits of faculty and staff members in the 2010 calendar, and students in 2009, along with quotations reflecting their perspectives on service and contribution within the university and beyond, the calendar series supports the university tagline established in 2008—Lives of Significance & Service.

North Park began an extensive brand development in 2008, signaled by the launch of its Chicago-based outdoor advertising campaign.

From the subway, to buses, bus shelters, and bridge bulletins, the strategically placed advertisements were designed to increase name recognition in various parts of the city.

Of the recent honors, Director of External Relations Lilian Samaan says, “We are thankful and honored to have received this award as a team. We are where we are today because of the sharp vision, wise leadership, and generous support of our president and members of his senior administrative team.”

Last year, the University’s “Do Justice” print campaign won a bronze award in the same competition. This campaign featured a series of three ads highlighting the University’s Christian, urban, and multicultural identity, and issuing a challenge to prospective students to serve a world in need of repair.

NEWS FROM AROUND CAMPUS

While a number of campaigns from competitors were created by advertising agencies, both the Wall Calendar Series and the “Do Justice” ad campaign were conceived, designed, and executed in-house by North Park’s team of web design, graphic design, public relations, advertising, and writing professionals in the Office of External Relations.

Samaan says, “We celebrate this success with the team in the Office of Development and Alumni Relations.”

Axelson Symposium Examines Evolution of Nonprofit Arena Interest and opportunities for volunteerism are increasing, but nonprofit organizations will need to address differing motivations and loyalties of individuals if they are to continue successfully serving constituents, a consultant told attendees at the 11 annual Axelson Symposium in May, hosted by the Axelson Center for Nonprofit Management at North Park University.

Heather Gowdy, senior associate of La Piana Consulting, said the changing motivations 4 Days 4 Justice Explores were among five societal shifts impacting the Justice and Evangelism future operations of nonprofits. The organizations also will have to adapt to demographic Thought leaders from across the country delivshifts, technological advances, the increasing ered lectures, guide discussions, and lead workimportance of networking, and the blurring of shops during 4 Days 4 Justice, which was held private and nonprofit sectors. in April at North Park University. The theme for the first-ever event was “Gather. Think. EnThe rise of mobile media also continues to gage. Act.” impact marketing in ways that alter an organization’s strategy. “User-generated content North Park Theological Seminary Professor rules,” Gowdy said, explaining that “market- Soong-Chan Rah, one of the organizers, says ing departments still are important, but so developing a richer sense of social justice is key is the junior staffer who is Tweeting about for spreading a holistic faith. “Our purpose for the organization.”

4 Days 4 Justice is to engage in a dialogue to discern a biblical, theological, social ethic of The lines between nonprofit and for-profit justice for twenty-first century evangelicalism,” businesses are blurring as corporations are in- Rah said. creasingly focused on addressing social needs, Gowdy added. She noted that there is a grow- In the event’s opening lecture, Andrea Smith ing number of “low-profit corporations,” which addressed the issue of “The Non-profit Inare driven by both mission and profit. dustrial Complex.” Peter Heltzel and Mimi

Haddad delivered the Nyvall Lectures, speaking on race, gender, and justice. Previewing her talk, Haddad pointed out that relief organizations have discovered that investing in a woman’s health, education, and business reaps clear social benefits for all of society. “Likewise,” she said, “the history of Christian missions suggests that providing women with education and opportunities for service led to one of the largest advances of faith in history—the Golden Era of Missions.”

Voices that are only beginning to be heard shared their perspectives. “One of the more exciting elements was the presence of Native American theologians and activists,” Rah says.

“Richard Twiss, Terry LeBlanc, Randy Woodley, and Andrea Smith are leaders in the Native American Christian community that have faithfully advocated for contextualized evangelism and theology in ministering to the Native American community.”

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School of Nursing and Swedish Covenant Hospital Earn Distinctions The School of Nursing was recently notified by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) that the baccalaureate programs in nursing have received the maximum of 10 years of continuing accreditation, with all standards found in full compliance. The graduate programs received the full 10 years of continuing accreditation in 2004. The School of Nursing also received word that its pass-rate for first-time test takers of the RN licensure examination (NCLEX) is now 96%, a figure that exceeds both the state and national averages.

The recent designation of Swedish Covenant Hospital (SCH) as a Magnet hospital by the American Nurses Credentialing Center enhances the stature of the North Park University School of Nursing, said Dean Linda Olson.

Sixteen volunteers in canoes cleaned a portion of the north branch of the Chicago River. They pulled out garbage that included a shopping cart, bicycles, a toilet, and numerous bottles and cans. Library Director Sally Anderson and Professor John Hjelm were the site leaders.

North Park Springs into Action on Community Service Day

Professor Tim Lowly led a team of students who painted a mural on one of the walls outside of the Carlson Tower building. Dean of Students Andrea Nevels worked in the community garden near campus.

Not all of the volunteers were connected with North Park. Ten Walgreens employees joined The entire North Park University football team the effort and donated bottled water. All of kicked off the school’s third annual Commu- the workers returned to the school at 12:30 nity Service Day in May, when they planted p.m. for lunch and to receive t-shirts and cloth flowers and other shrubs grocery bags donated by Many of the students train at the hospital, along three heavily travTrader Joe’s. which is one of only four hospitals in Chicago, eled streets in Albany “It was great to see so 23 hospitals in Illinois, and 371 in the world to Park, Foster, Montrose, many people from across “This is always one of my earn the prestigious designation. and Lawrence Avenues. campus coming out to favorite campus-wide They were among 350 live out the University’s events,” Johnson said. “We The honor is “the highest and most prestigious people who worked commitment to service.” see students, faculty, and international distinction a hospital can receive to improve the neighstaff coming together to for nursing excellence and outstanding patient borhood through acserve our community. It care,” said SCH President Mark Newton when tivities that ranged from picking up trash to has been great to see Community Service Day he announced the recognition. He added that painting murals. grow every year.” the designation means that “SCH serves as an international model for nursing care.”

“The day was a great relationship-building and Leaders Honored at Multicultural bonding experience for participants as well as Awards Banquet Student training is enhanced through the helpful to our Albany Park neighborhood,” said strong affiliation with SCH. “We use Swedish Rich Johnson, director of University Ministries Receiving the first Vernard Jones Award for for clinical experiences for our undergradu- (UMin). “It was great to see so many people Leadership was a humbling moment for Raate pre-licensure baccalaureate students,” says from across campus coming out to live out the mona Gant because she had worked alongside Olson. “We also have our graduate students university’s commitment to service,” said Tony the North Park Theological Seminary student complete their clinical practicums using mas- Zamble, Urban Outreach Coordinator for who died suddenly in November of 2009. ter’s prepared nurse preceptors from Swedish.”

UMin and organizer of the event.

“I do not take this lightly,” she said, following The School of Nursing also is affiliated with the Seminary student Sarah Robinson led a group the Multicultural Awards and Scholarship three other Chicago-area hospitals to achieve of volunteers to Winnemac Park, where they Banquet. “I’m deeply honored.” Gant, a youth the Magnet designation—NorthShore Univer- removed an invasive species of thistle that is ministries major, will soon begin work as the sity Health System, Northwestern Memorial threatening an area set aside for the growth of city host of the Center for Student Missions in Hospital, and Advocate Lutheran General. native plants.

New York City.

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NEWS FROM AROUND CAMPUS

Universities (CCCU) to honor the school with Cannell, Dean of Students and Community the Robert and Susan Andringa Award for Ad- Life Deb Auger, Lecturer and former Dean of vancing Racial Harmony.

Students and Community Life Jo Ann Deasy, and Administrative Assistant Guylla Brown for Dr. John Phelan Honored for their collaboration in bringing his expansive Service with Seminary plans to fruition.

Vernard Jones C’1995, 42, died of natural causes in November. While an undergraduate student at North Park University, he helped form the school’s Gospel Choir. He had returned to attend seminary, interning with University Ministries and serving as the Viking football team’s chaplain. Velda Love, director of justice and intercultural learning, fought back tears as she announced that an annual award would be given in Jones’s honor.

Dr. John “Jay” Phelan was honored for his 14 Dr. Phelan said, “It has been a great and humyears of service as president and dean of North bling honor to serve this remarkable commuPark Theological Seminary during a reception nity. I am looking forward to continuing my at Nyvall Hall in May. Last fall, Dr. Phelan calling as a teacher and am thankful to God for announced his decision to step down from of- the opportunity.” fice and join the faculty as Senior Professor of Theological Studies beginning this summer.

Latino Film Festival Draws Record

Attendance of 150 People

The well-attended reception brought together members of the denomination; University fac- North Park University presented the Chicago ulty, staff, and students; and former Seminary Latino Film Festival in May, and attendance at students and staff who returned to campus for the event was the highest ever for the Univerthe event. sity. “In the past, we averaged 50 attendees a night,” said Dr. Lorenzo Florian, Professor of Guylla Brown commented, “Dr. Phelan treats Spanish. “This year, we had a record turnout staff, students, and everyone around him with of 150 people.” respect.” This fact was evidenced by the strong During an inspiring evening, students were attendance and warm appreciation shown. The Chicago Latino Film Festival has been held honored for their service locally and around Brown continued, “It’s nice to respect someone in Chicago for the last 26 years, featuring films the world to make a significant difference in even more after working with him for 10 years from more than 20 Spanish- and Portuguesethe lives of others. than you did in the beginning.” speaking countries, and North Park has hosted its films for the last eight years.

Football player Herbert Obah was grateful for Dr. Phelan expressed his thanks, and specificalthe standing ovation he received while accept- ly thanked former NPTS Dean of Faculty Ste- North Park featured two films, Ella Es El ing the Spiritual Leadership Award, but was phen Graham, Dean of Academic Life Linda Matador (She Is the Matador), the story of two quick to deflect the praise. “It was fulfilling to female matadors who challenged the traditionsee that God’s people who gave me a standing ally rigid gender roles of Spain, and The Living ovation at the banquet were touched by Christ Documents, which gives a view into indigenous through me,” said Obah, who never missed a rights in Nicaragua and attorney María AcosFriday night team chapel and frequently could ta’s work for justice. be found praying with and for other students.

“The event was a great success, and a wonderJunior Crystal Buffington was recognized for ful learning experience for the audience,” starting “Our Village, Our World,” a nonprofit Florian commented. that educates school children about world hunger and poverty through a series of community North Park is one of only four universities that service projects and an after-school curriculum host films for the festival. The University plans that focuses on philanthropy. to continue the relationship in the future, as part of its commitment to being a purposefully The work of the students and faculty recently multicultural institution that celebrates the led the Council of Christian Colleges and complex global cultural tapestry.

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NEWS FROM AROUND CAMPUS

Blending Art and Faith Ivan and Rayna Hadzhiminov(a) grew up just 100 miles apart in Bulgaria—he is from Sliven, and she is from Plovdiv.

But it wasn’t until they both traveled more than 5,000 miles to America, leaving behind a deflated post-Communist Bulgaria and seeking new opportunities, that they crossed paths. They met in 2001, married in 2002, and today both work in North Park University’s Physical Plant as custodians.

After graduating from art school in Bulgaria in 1974, Ivan completed two years of military service, then worked as a studio artist for 20 years, painting portraits of political figures and posters for national holidays and festivities. Painting has been

entertainers and symbols, including Alexander the Great, Julius Caesar, Charlie Chaplin, Jimi Hendrix, and the Statue of Liberty. Ivan also builds and paints wooden crosses, one of which is displayed at St. John of Rila.

The Quiet But Significant Work of the Physical Plant Custodial Team

One of Ivan’s most striking pieces is a painting of Jesus and Mary that he gave to Rayna for her 50th birthday. He devoted months to creating the painting, which depicts Mary with a Bulgarian face. Rayna treasures the painting and says there is no more beautiful gift Ivan could have given her. Ivan does not sell his paintings, but gives them as gifts to churches, organizations, and family and friends.

In addition to keeping all the campus buildings clean, the Physical Plant custodial team also responds to calls regarding plumbing and other minor maintenance issues from students living in campus residences. “And every time we get a hard rain, we clean up certain buildings that get flooded,” explains Israel Pablo, director of custodial services.

Ivan’s passion for decades, and his religious faith is as abiding as his love for the art. But in Communist Bulgaria, painting religious figures was forbidden. Ivan fused these two loves when he painted his first icon in secret in 1974—St. George slaying the dragon.

Not only did coming to America provide Ivan with new employment opportunities, it also liberated his faith and art. “America is free. You can paint whatever you want,” he says. “When I came to America, icons were new subject matter for me, and now it’s 99 percent of what I paint. This is my passion.”

The rest of his paintings are depictions of historical figures and American

With their glowing palettes of gold, cream, amber, and red, Ivan’s paintings emanate his warm, generous nature and obvious love for his work. “I put everything I have into each painting, and I give them to the people and places that inspire me,” he explains. “What’s inside of me comes out into the painting. Everyone’s face and all the details are very specific, and I capture that essence the best I can.”

Ivan works the night shift at North Park, cleaning classrooms, hallways, and washrooms mainly in Carlson Tower, working behind the scenes to create environments conducive to learning and reflection. “I approach my cleaning work with an artist’s eye,” he says. “All the details have to be just right.”

The Physical Plant team recently prepared two dozen student rooms for a visiting group, cleaning the rooms and stocking them with bed linens and towels. “Then a heat wave came, and we got an additional dozen air-conditioned rooms ready in just half a day,” Israel says.

Karin Andersson, a new project manager in the Center for Scandinavian Studies, commented on the helpfulness of the North Park Physical Plant staff by sharing one of her first experiences at the University: “When I arrived for Swedish Flag Day, I realized that I had not reserved enough chairs for the event. I spoke to Erik Sandberg at the Physical Plant Office, and he delivered 30 more chairs right away. I was not expecting this problem to be solved, given the last-minute notice, but he really saved the day!”

Israel shrugs off the recognition, saying with a smile, “We are just doing our job.” But he does give credit to his industrious team: “Our staff members are very responsive to these situations. They work very hard and put in overtime to get the job done.”

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FEATURE ARTICLE

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FEATURE ARTICLE

In the Church, in the Community, and in the World Every institute of learning hopes that its programs prepare graduates to lead lives of success and fulfillment.

The means are different—many groom individuals for careers in business, others create pathways toward innovation in the sciences, and some build a foundation that cultivates creative expression. But the overarching goal of nurturing lives of achievement and happiness is a common one.

disciplines, from theology to nonprofit administration to science, to take flight in their chosen professions—whether they become pastors who rouse congregations to serve their communities more actively, international advocates for those individuals most in need of help, or leaders who demonstrate that good business is ethical business.

North Park University alumni do lead lives of success and fulfillment.

Uncommon, though, is North Park But they don’t stop there. They go University’s deep commitment to beyond their personal sphere, reachunlocking and developing each stu- ing out into the world to make it dent’s individual calling to a greater better, to heal its wounds, and to good, paving multiple avenues to demonstrate that each of us can support their journeys. We dedi- make a difference. cate ourselves to preparing students for lives of significance and service Let’s see how our alumni in the across the entire career spectrum. church, in the nonprofit sphere, and in business are making a difference, Our graduates use their instruc- and why North Park made such a tion grounded in a wide array of difference for them.

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FEATURE ARTICLE

FEATURE ARTICLE

Willow Creek Worship Services Inspire Thousands Willow Creek Community Church grounds its community in values of inclusion, compassion, and service; opens its doors to individuals from all backgrounds, regardless of where they are on their spiritual journey; and nurtures active, courageous service to the community and the world—just as North Park University does. Its mission statement outlines an idea also embodied at North Park: “We believe that excellence honors God and inspires people.” It is no surprise that a growing number of North Park alumni form the core of the Willow Creek worship services group.

Becky Johnson Ykema C’2005 is a Willow Creek worship leader who, along with North Park alumni Paul Johnson C’97 and Sharon Irving C’2008, helps plan the music, spoken word, and video elements of worship services. “We inspire and enlighten the people who come to our services, through various creative pathways— music, poetry, and imagery,” says Ykema.

“We sing and play our hearts out for an hour to help the members of our church feel connected to God and one another.”

University Ministries Director Rich Johnson said of the weekend service he recently attended, “It was a lot of fun. Given the overlap, North Park and Willow Creek fit together very well.”

Executive Producer Matt Lundgren C’97 S’2001, who oversees programming of weekend services, has been with Willow Creek for more than 10 years, and in recent years, he has reached out to creative and enterprising North Park alumni to help boost the power of worship services. Paul Johnson is the new video programs director. Sharon Irving is a vocalist and writes spoken word pieces. And University Ministries Worship and Arts Coordinator Stephen Kelly is Willow Creek’s music director, choir director, and staff pianist.

Willow Creek spreads its arms wide, bringing together more than 20,000 people across Chicagoland to worship each weekend. The nondenominational church—now the fourth largest in the US—met for the first time in Willow Creek Theater in Palatine, Illinois, and is celebrating its 35th anniversary this year.

Ykema says, “We’re working hard to make a big church

feel small. Through scripture and music, we share our vulnerabilities from the heart, and our services are modeled to encourage the congregation to participate as well.”

Scot McKnight, professor of biblical and theological studies, says, “The strengthening relationship between North Park and Willow Creek makes sense. North Park represents a spectrum of Christianity, and some of the evangelicals at North Park participate and attend Willow Creek, a thriving church and safe environment for evangelical Christians. Willow Creek offers one of the most well-rounded, complete ministries in the Chicago area, and the church is involved in just about all of the important causes of the world.”

McKnight frequently teaches at Willow Creek, and has a front row seat to the inspiring work of worship services. “Willow Creek’s worship services team shows the quality and strength of the music and worship programs at North Park,” he says. “Matt Lundgren is one of our finest graduates. He knows North Park is a great place to find new members for his team, and students emerging out of the music department and University Ministries get a wonderful opportunity to develop their gifts in public.”

Ginny Olson, co-director of the Center for Youth Ministry Studies at North Park, was associate director of junior high ministry at Willow Creek in the early ’90s.

She says, “North Park and Willow Creek have influenced each other to expand social justice outreach, and the relationship keeps getting better. I take students in my leadership class to Willow Creek for their Vision Night every year.”

Reflecting on the foundation that North Park provided, Ykema says, “I don’t know where I’d be without North Park. The musical training was formative, and the whole experience grounded me in my faith. At collegelife, I felt a freedom in worship that I have not felt anywhere else. My instructors challenged me to dig into the text, to know myself and my faith.” Paul Johnson agrees, adding, “North Park expanded my understanding of myself, the world, and God tremendously. North Park doesn’t try to teach you what to think. It teaches you how to think.”

“North Park served as an essential foundation for me,” continues Matt Lundgren, “not only in terms of my professional preparation as a business and music student, but also as a Christ-follower. I’m convinced that without my North Park experience, I wouldn’t have received the preparation that I needed to lead at Willow Creek.”

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FEATURE ARTICLE

North Parkers Brighten the Full Career Spectrum With their achievements, North Park alumni are advancing the fields of medicine, economics, public policy, humanitarian service, and the arts. Though they are working in different areas and industries, all these professionals began their careers inspired by North Park’s values of significance and service, and they share a commitment to carry them forward. Here, alumni from across the career spectrum reflect on how the University has propelled them ahead in their work.

Currently a fellow in pulmonary and critical care medicine at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn., Darlene ( Duncan) Nelson, M . D. C ’20 01, was president of Tri-Beta, the biology honors society, during her senior year, and she was recognized with the University’s Outstanding Senior Award in 2001.

“My education was fantastic,” she says. “My classes and the personal attention from my teachers gave me a solid foundation for my future medical training. I am also thankful for the lessons about compassion and serving others, which prepared me for the many challenges of medical school and residency. As I transition into the medical field and into other aspects of my life, I will continue to be influenced by all that I learned at North Park.”

A business administration and economics major, Timothy Rose C’81 is the founder and president of T. Rose & Associates, Inc., which provides investment advisory services. Tim has served as cochair of the finance committee for Children’s Cancer Research Fund and a founding board member of The Learning Center for Homeless Families. He is an adjunct professor of risk management at the University of St. Thomas, and a past trustee of North Park University.

“The balanced approach to studying business and economics as well as religion and philosophy at North Park gave me a similar outlook on life,” says Tim. “To a large degree, success is being able not only to meet business objectives but also to understand and communicate effectively with various types of people. It’s a liberal arts education with a Christian influence in an urban community that helps prepare you so effectively for life.”

As the quality manager of Medline Industries’ Readycare Division, Waukegan, Ill., Angela M . Pinkston C ’20 03 oversees the firm’s daily inspections and microbiological testing activities. Active in service leadership, she volunteers as an event manager with One Brick Chicago, which assists other area nonprofits. While at North Park, Angela participated in cross country and track, and Gospel Choir. She became a competitive runner and earned honors in CCIW championship tournaments.

“My education and experience at North Park was life shaping,” she says. “I grew academically, spiritually, and as a leader. North Park is a nurturing community that assists everyone in reaching their full potential.”

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FEATURE ARTICLE

Kathryn Edin-Nelson, Ph. D. C ’84 is a professor of public policy and management at Harvard University’s Kennedy School of Government. An award-winning author and researcher, she is recognized as one of the nation’s preeminent voices in improving the lives of the urban poor. At North Park, Kathryn performed with the North Park University Choir and the University Symphony Orchestra, and participated in the Urban Outreach program.

“North Park gave me three essential gifts: a passion for Jesus and for faith-infused learning, a passion for Chicago, a great American city, and finally a passion for diversity, social justice, race, and poverty,” she shares. “I learned to view my work as a calling, which continues to sustain what I do both with poor urban families and with students.”

A major in music performance, and born in Shanghai, China, Wei Yu C’2004 began studying the cello at age four and made his debut with the Shanghai Symphony Orchestra at age 11. He came to the United States in 2000 to study at North Park. Wei has been a member of the cello section of the New York Philharmonic since 2007. He has performed world-wide in music festivals and in concerts, and was invited to join the Israel Philharmonic Orchestra’s USA 70th anniversary tour. Upon graduating from North Park, Wei earned a full scholarship to The Juilliard School, where he earned his master’s degree.

“I received such wonderful training in music and in performance because of the exceptional music faculty. But it was my overall education at North Park that made me more fully prepared for the real world. I became a more well-rounded person—and a better musician.”

Brady Josephson C ’20 07 is the director of resource development for Spark Ventures, a Chicago-based nonprofit organization that forms partnerships with high-impact organizations around the world to help vulnerable children achieve their potential. A business and economics major at North Park, Brady served on the Student-Athlete Advisory Council (SAAC) and University Ministries Focus Week Team. An award-winning baseball athlete, Brady also received the Senior Par Excellence Award.

“North Park gave me not only a quality education but also a purpose and a passion in life. I truly learned what social justice meant and recognized our call to do something that mattered. Most important, North Park taught me more about how to live my life and make an impact, and not just how to get a job and earn a paycheck.”

North Park University is proud of the integrity and passion our alumni embody, and we are heartened to see the wonderful work they are doing in the world. Most of all, we are excited about the future, for we know that their best is yet to come.

NORTH PARKER | SUMMER 2010 17

FEATURE ARTICLE

18 NORTH PARKER | SUMMER 2010

FEATURE ARTICLE

2009-2010 Sports Teams Sail Record -High Waves

by Kevin Shepke

Spring Semester 2010 was a season of Viking victories across all sports, with teams accumulating big wins, setting new records, and qualifying for major tournaments.

Baseball Led by fifth-year coach Luke Johnson, the North Park baseball team finished with its best record, as it won 28 games, and qualified for the College Conference of Illinois and Wisconsin tournament for the first time in four years. The Vikings’ 15-7 mark in the CCIW ranked second, and NPU earned NCAA Regional recognition as it debuted with a No. 6 ranking in the season’s first poll. Numerous individual awards were recognized as a total of six players earned CCIW All-Conference honors, including Peter Sparacino, who earned CCIW Co-Pitcher of the Year honors, the first for the North Park program, as he finished the season with a perfect 6-0 conference record. Five members were also named to the American Baseball Coaches Association All-Central Region team and NPU junior pitcher Mike Giovenco was drafted by the Kansas City Royals in the 14th round of the Major League Baseball draft. Giovenco led the team in strikeouts as he broke his own single-season school record of 87, with 101 strikeouts in the 2010 campaign. His strikeout total ranked sixth in the NCAA as well.

Men’s Basketball The North Park men’s basketball team had its best start in the last 10 years during the 2009–10 campaign. NPU started the College Conference of Illinois and Wisconsin slate with a 4-1 record, its best mark since the 1999–2000 season. The Vikings’ solid beginning included a historic overtime win against Wheaton College, its first over the Thunder since February 3, 2003. North Park also snapped a 19-game losing streak against Elmhurst College after it defeated the Bluejays 58-53 January 20, 2010, and recorded its first CCIW four-game winning streak since the 1990–1991 season. Senior Nick Williams became the 13th player in North Park history to score 1,000 points in a career as he amassed 1,377 points in four years.

NORTH PARKER | SUMMER 2010 19

FEATURE ARTICLE

He finished with 145 career three-point field goals, which ranks fourth all-time in the NPU record book, and scored a careerhigh 29 points against Carthage College January 27. He also notched 11 double-doubles in his career and earned second team All-CCIW honors, his third All-Conference selection in the last three years. Sophomore Emanuel Crosby earned All-CCIW third team honors as well.

Women’s Basketball Beginning with a 2-0 record behind a solid mixture of freshmen, new players, and veterans, the women’s basketball Vikings started the season with a thrilling 56-55 win over Benedictine University at home, as freshman Kamauria Acree scored the game-winning lay-up as time expired. NPU set a new singlegame record January 19, 2010, against Elmhurst, as they shot 94.7 percent from the free throw line, converting 18 of 19 shots.

The mark broke the previous record of 94 percent set February 27, 2007. Acree earned All-CCIW Second Team honors as she led the Vikings with a 15.8 points per game average, 5.5 rebounds, and 40 steals, for nearly a 2.0 average. Her 15.8 pointsper-game average ranked third in the CCIW.

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Softball The North Park softball team had its best record under 14th year head coach Dan Gooris, with 19 wins during the year. The Vikings started the season winning 12 of their first 16 games, and defeated nationally ranked North Central College for the first time in program history. Junior Kate Seebacher also etched her name in the NPU softball record book as she became the first pitcher in North Park softball history to throw a no-hitter and record 100 strikeouts in a season. She finished the season with 104 strikeouts, and earned a single-season second-best, 13 wins. In doing so, Seebacher earned Second Team All-CCIW honors along with freshman Sonya Le, who had a breakout first year as she led the team in stolen base percentage, and was third in runs scored (19), second in doubles (7), and fifth in batting average (.250) and hits (26).

Women’s Rowing In the final year for coach Tim Grant, the North Park women’s rowing team had a successful season. NPU took second at the Chicago Championship April 12, 2010, getting nipped by just

FEATURE ARTICLE

3/5 of a second at the finish line by Northwestern University.

Five Varsity members of the team earned All-Conference and Academic All-Conference honors for the 2010 season. Earning All-Mid-Atlantic Rowing Conference individual honors were senior Kara Bladel, junior Rebecca Masterjohn, and freshman Liz Oblom for their performance at the MARC Conference Championship in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania April 24. MARC Academic All-Conference honors went to Bladel, junior Kaitlin JacksonLehde, and junior Ashley Barton. Members of the academic AllConference team qualified by carrying a 3.5 grade point average or higher and competed in 80 percent of their races.

setting a new NPU record in the event with a 204’ 1”/62.20 meter toss on his final throw. Senior Luke DeJong, who earned his eighth All-CCIW honor at the conference championship, also qualified for nationals at the Keeler Invitational, hosted by North Central College, when he threw the discus 154’ 5”/47.07 meters—a seven-foot lifetime best. The mark also established a new school record and placed him 10th in the field of 50 of the best small college throwers in the Midwest. Junior Sarah Hansen qualified for nationals at the CCIW Championships as well, placing fourth in the heptathlon and scoring 4,116 points in the multi-event.

Tr a c k a n d F i e l d

Men’s Golf

Three individual athletes from the North Park track and field teams qualified for the NCAA National Meet at BaldwinWallace College in Berea, Ohio, under first-year coach Robert “Skip” Stolley. Junior Lars Tenglin won the College Conference of Illinois and Wisconsin meet and broke the meet record in the javelin event as he recorded a toss of 201’ 5”/61.40 meters.

He later went on to finish fourth in the javelin at the National Meet and earned NCAA Division III All-American honors,

The North Park men’s golf team finished tied for sixth at the College Conference of Illinois and Wisconsin Championships. Senior Blake Blumenstock became one of the most successful players in NPU golf history as he finished his career with a school-record 75 stroke average, including a record-low 66 in the 2009 fall season. Seniors Rob Anderson and Dan Spellacy earned CCIW Academic All-Conference honors as well.

NORTH PARKER | SUMMER 2010 21

FACULTY ESSAY

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FACULTY ESSAY

Two Principles of Christian Business Ethics

by Ilsup Ahn, Associate Professor of Philosophy and Faculty Fellow for Asian and Asian American Initiatives

“Business ethics” is often regarded as an oxymoron, in the way that “military intelligence” and “open secret” are considered to be counterintuitive.

Given that business has to do with promoting one’s business for profit or self-interest, while ethics concerns serving or caring for others, the term “business ethics” sounds contradictory. For this reason, important questions arise concerning the possibility of business ethics as such: How is business ethics possible? Is there such a thing as business ethics?

This statement gives us an insightful view of Christian identity. Simply put, Christians are no more than men and women “set under authority.” Even though a person may be a CEO of a big company, he or she is still a person set under authority, if claiming to be a Christian. It is thus critical for Christian businessmen and businesswomen to monitor themselves by occasionally asking the following question: Under whose authority am I set?

Philosophers would try to answer this question through the so-called The second principle involves the philosophy of money. For Christians, bottom-line approach, according to which one is ethically good as long money is not the purpose of their doing business; serving others’ needs as he or she does not break any of the laws is, rather, the purpose of their doing busiof society. How should a Christian, then, ness. When it comes to money, Chrisrespond to the question? Should he or she When launching a business, therefore, a tians ought to confess that they earn also come up with the same passive and man or woman should ask: What is God’s money by serving others’ needs. As long negative answer to the question? Is it good plan for me? Then one should search the as we are living in this world in bodily enough for a Christian not to break any area where peoples’ needs are not being form, no one is exempt from the need to laws in the business world? If not, what well served. If a man or woman finds a support their physical or mental needs, makes Christian business ethics unique way to serve people’s unmet needs, then and business is, in fact, how human acand distinguishable from the general it will become a new business. tivity is used to meet the various needs of philosophical approach? Let me answer humankind. If, however, we believe that this question with two biblical principles money is the purpose of business, there is that I believe distinctively characterize Christian business ethics. no space for genuine love or care—the essence of Christian ethics—in the business world. When launching a business, therefore, a man or The first principle deals with ownership in business. For Christians, all woman should ask: What is God’s plan for me? Then one should search business is fundamentally God’s business. From this perspective, strictly the area where peoples’ needs are not being well served. If a man or speaking, it is wrong for Christians to say that they are serving God woman finds a way to serve people’s unmet needs, then it will become in their business. Instead, they would have to say that they are serving a new business.

God’s business in their workplaces. While in the former, owners are concerned with their business plan, in the latter, owners are concerned In other words, we can reach an understanding that Christian busiwith their faith and commitment to God’s business. ness ethics is basically the ethics of serving. Since the act of serving is not possible without the discovery of others and the recognition of This, of course, does not mean that a business owner should not have their needs, Christian businessmen and businesswomen should make a business plan. To be specific, I find an exemplary model of Christian the effort to discover the existence of others. One must notice, though, businesspeople in the story of a Roman centurion in Luke 7, where Jesus that I intentionally use the verb “discover” in relation to the needs of is “amazed” at the centurion for his faith when the centurion identifies others and our neighbors, because these others and our neighbors can himself as a “man set under authority.” The man’s philosophy of profesonly be discovered through the eyes of serving rather than merely seeing sion is summarized in his own statement: “For I also am a man set under and not taking action. In this respect, the integration of business and authority, with soldiers under me; and I say to one, ‘Go,’ and he goes, virtue is not only possible, it is also a call to all Christian businessmen and to another, ‘Come,’ and he comes.” and businesswomen.

NORTH PARKER | SUMMER 2010 23

DONOR PROFILE

There’s No Place Like Home

Giving Back to the North Park Family That Has Given Them So Much

by Jennifer Kirkland

D

r. Timothy Nelson C’74, the son of an Evangelical Covenant Church pastor who spent most of his career in the U.S. Army as a chaplain, was born in Aberdeen, Maryland, but his family moved all over Germany and the US throughout his childhood. Linda Nelson C’75, the daughter of missionaries to Japan, was born in Youngstown, Ohio, but spent most of her childhood in Japan. Though both have ties to Youngstown and their families knew one another, it was at North Park University that Tim and Linda found each other, and this is the place they consider to be their first real home. Linda says, “We’ve both always said that home is wherever we are, and North Park is the first place we were together.”

During her first semester at North Park, Linda found herself in Music 101 with Tim. “I went to the library to do my listening for the class,” she says, “and all the record players were taken, so I asked Tim if I could listen with him.” Tim says, “I knew who she was, and she knew who I was. I think we were listening to ‘Water Music’.” The Nelsons got married after Linda graduated, and this year, they celebrated their 35th anniversary. Both regard their time at North Park as some of the most memorable and enjoyable years of their lives.

Today an oral and maxillofacial surgeon in Longview, Washington, Tim credits North Park’s biology department with providing a uniformly excellent education. “North Park prepared me very well to be accepted into dental school, and go on to have a wonderful career as an oral surgeon.” Linda put Tim through dental school working as head nurse in a medical unit at Rush University, later worked in a step-down unit in Ohio, and was promoted to head nurse within six months of beginning work as a staff nurse in Portland. She says, “I have North Park to thank for giving me the skills, training, and confidence to move up the ranks quickly.”

24 NORTH PARKER | SUMMER 2010

Tim participated in student government as sophomore class president, senator, and elections chairman, played on the golf team, and took active part in fellowship activities. Linda participated in University Choir and Gospel Teams, and has fond memories of choir tour. “These were formative years for us,” she says. Tim adds, “We’ve talked about how our four years at North Park really stand out as significant and very special.

My time at North Park helped make me who I am.” Linda agrees, saying, “It’s always wonderful to go back to campus because it’s like going home.”

“In supporting North Park, we feel that we can really make a difference,” continues Tim, who recently completed a term on North Park’s board of trustees, and serves on the executive committee for the President’s Club. “We enjoy having an ongoing relationship with the president, deans, and professors at North Park.”

Many of the Nelsons’ predecessors attended North Park, and two of their daughters are carrying on the tradition. Katrina C’2004 and Linnea C’2007 both studied nursing, and like Linda, both met their husbands at North Park.

Katrina married Bryan Phelan C’2003 S’2009 and earned her master’s degree in nursing, and Linnea married Sean Welander C’2008 and is completing a graduate program in nursing. Their son Eric attended Pepperdine University and now works in management for Target.

North Park University has been a source of learning, laughter, and love for the entire Nelson family, and that is why it has always felt like home and they continue to offer their support in so many different ways. “And who knows?” Tim ponders. “Perhaps our grandchildren will someday carry on the legacy.”

alumni@northpark.edu

ALUMNI NOTES

ALUMNI NOTES SUMMER 2010

alumni@northpark.edu

| SUMMER | FALL 2006 NORTH NORTH PARKER PARKER 2010 25

ALUMNI NOTES 60s

John R. Colletti C’75

The late Glen Anderson C’60 was honored during the weekend of April 10–11, 2010, at the dedication of the artwork in the Helwig Center Fellowes Lounge and outside the Athletic Department offices. Pictured L–R: Jeff Anderson, Judy Anderson C’61, and Jim Anderson C’86, with Glen’s honorary jersey.

Steve Carmick C’69 has retired from the

practice of law and spends his time traveling with wife Sue from their home in Chehalis, Wash. Steve jokes, “North Park allowed me to cram a four-year degree into 11 years, and I’m still very grateful.”

Rev. John Mitchell C’69 lives in Easton, Pa.,

and serves as the Northeast representative for Shepherds Ministries, an organization that provides compassionate Christian care, vocational education, and job opportunities for adults with developmental disabilities.

John previously served on the staff of Baptist Bible College and Seminary in Clarks Summit, Pa., as an associate pastor in New Jersey, and as pastor in McLean, Va.

(left) received the Ambassador of Hospitality award from llinois Hotel and Lodging Association President and CEO Marc Gordon (right) during the recent National Restaurant Association Show at McCormick Place. Colletti has been working as a managing partner with the Gibsons Restaurant Group since 1992.

The Chicago native has been affiliated with Americana Hotel Corporation, Ditka’s City Lights, Sportsman’s Park Race Track, and Shaw’s Crab House. He is a board member of the Chicago Convention and Tourism Bureau, the Illinois Restaurant Association, and the Greater North Michigan Avenue Association. Colletti and his wife Susan reside in Lincolnwood, Ill.

80s

After serving in the U.S. Army as a PersianFarsi linguist, Karl Stephan C’87 married Sandra Haupt. Together they have three children and live in Brunswick, Ga. Karl is currently serving at Dyncorp International in Afghanistan, where he works as a contract interpreter for Persian-Dari.

90s Kay (Longo) Gossage C’91 has written and

self-published a fantasy book titled The Sword Consulting, Inc. in April 2010 as a business of Ages: The Tallah Trildevelopment manager in the Insurance In- ogy, Book One, available dustry Group. MindTree is an IT consult- on Kay’s website (stores. ing firm with headquarters in Warren, N.J., lulu.com/kayscreations) and Bangalore, India. Jon and his wife of 22 and www.amazon.com. years, Leigh, reside in Berkley Heights, N.J., Kay reports that anyand have three sons, Blake (18), Scott (16), one from junior high and Doug (11). and up who enjoys fantasy will enjoy this book. Kay now lives in the Pacific NorthClark C’86 and Janet west with her husband and three children, (Brendel) Carey C’86 wel- where she enjoys sports, entertaining family comed Tessa Yuejie to their and friends, and attending the symphony. family on November 2, 2009, in Jiangxi Province, China. Stephanie Nelson C’91 celebrated her Tessa turned one on December 40th birthday with a 1980s prom-themed 26, 2009, and joins big sister party in Seattle, Wash., attended by many Celia (7).

North Parkers. Pictured L–R: (Row 1) Kirk

Jon Anderson C’83 joined MindTree

70s Sara (Sandquist) Forsman C’71 joined her

mother Isabelle Sandquist and niece Elle Sandquist C’2010 for a visit to campus and a walk down memory lane in April.

Isabelle, who worked in Old Main for J. Frederick Burgh, was able to visit her old office and replicate a photo she keeps in her wallet and remembers with great fondness.

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alumni@northpark.edu

ALUMNI NOTES Anderson C’89, Stephanie Nelson C’91, Brian Whitaker C’89, Jennifer Norling C’89; (Row 2) Mark Nilson C’83 S’90, Rene (Magnuson) Nelson C’84, Robin (Nelson) Nilson C’83, Ingrid (Carlson) Halverson C’2000, Sonja (Sundholm) Whitaker C’91, Sandy Nelson C’85; (Row 3) Kristen (Halverson) Jagodzinske C’96, Blake Stromberg C’89, Peter Nelson C’85, Blake Magnuson C’86, Colette Halverson G’2009, Carol (Elving) Anderson C’65, Kristina (Deitrick) Sterling C’92, Jon Wahlquist C’93, Kendall Magnuson C’ 89; (Row 4) Tom LaPaze C’86, Jim Bergquist C’89, Brad Halverson C’87, George Magnuson C’54 S’60, and Geoff Sterling C’94.

Mark C’92 and Jodi (Monkowski) Johnson C’2007 proudly announce the birth of their

daughter, Sofia Ann. Born on April 8, 2010, at 9:05 p.m., Sofia weighed 7 lbs., 10 oz. and was 21 inches long.

Arizbe and Nathan Svedvik C’98 are the proud parents of three-year-old twins Annika Miranda and Alberto Nathanial. The Svedviks live in Allen, TX.

Proud parents Mark C’93 and Christine (Samuelson) Cederberg C’97 welcomed

Henry Mark on May 30, 2010, at 7 lbs. and 20 inches. Three-year-old sister Klara is very excited to have a new brother!

Scandinavian design, Lilla shares vibrant and bold handcrafted hair accessories that are created with care, flair, and attention to detail. Lisa and Krista have also found a way to connect their passion as educators with Lilla. With every hair accessory purchase, a portion of the proceeds is donated to support a nonprofit organization, littlethings, that helps girls in the Democratic Republic of Congo gain an education. Lilla is committed to making everyday moments special by impacting girls around the world. Lilla hair accessories are sold online and though select retail stores. Please visit www.lillahairclips.com for more information.

Erin (McMillan) Werner C’97 graduated in March 2010 with a Doctor of Medicine deGregg King C’88 and Craig King C’92 In her free time, Cara Maurizi C’96 has gree from Ross University School of Medihave founded 4Him2Day-Children’s Can- been working on writing and recording her cine. Erin, husband Matt, and sons Noah (6) cer Resource Foundation. 4Him2Day will own songs, which are available online at and Isaiah (4) reloprovide information services, as well as www.caramaurizi.com. Cara is also an im- cated from Orlando financial, physical, and counseling support proviser with Zoo Improv (www.zooimprov. to Tallahassee, Fla., to families dealing with pediatric cancer. com) and CU Theatersports. Cara’s daugh- in June, where Erin 4Him2Day is named for Craig’s six-year-old ters Elin and Sofie are now in third and first began her Family son Darian, who passed away from osteosar- grade, respectively, in Urbana, IL. Medicine Residency coma in April 2009. To learn more, please at Tallahassee Mevisit www.4him2day.org.

Anne Soderstrom C’96 and Lon Rork are morial Healthcare. happy to announce the birth of their first child, Katherine Elisabeth, born December 19, 2009, in Oakland, CA. Katherine is the sixth grandchild of Melvin C’60 and Joanne (Young) Soderstrom C’65.

Lisa (Johnson) Applequist C’97 and Krista (Tournell) Palmquist C’99 launched

Lilla, Swedish for “little,” in 2009. Inspired by

| SUMMER | FALL 2006 NORTH NORTH PARKER PARKER 2010 27

ALUMNI PROFILE

Operation My People

Supporting a Beloved North Park Professor’s Community of Origin

by Jennifer Kirkland

T

heodora Ayot has been a beloved history professor at North Park University for more than a decade. “My People” is Professor Ayot’s term of endearment—and occasional exasperation—for anyone in her classroom or otherwise in her watchful affections.

Feminine Hygiene Projects

Many women lack sufficient undergarments and feminine hygiene products, and adolescent girls stay home from school to avoid embarrassment. Thanks to the donations of many, the volunteers disTheodora was the first woman from her home, Rusinga Island, to tributed underwear and sanitary pads to various groups and clubs. complete any higher education, from high school all the way to PhD. These were a big hit, but volunteers quickly saw that the donations Rusinga Island is on Lake Victoria, the world’s second-largest fresh- would all too quickly disappear. water lake, located in Western Kenya. Professor Ayot has inspired many of her students to take an interest in the community in which As a potential new source of income, donations to OMP of flannel she was raised. material, thread, snaps, and sewing needles were delivered to the Kamasengre West Women’s Group so the women can make their Operation My People is the ever-evolving group of friends and stu- own version of washable, reusable pads, as a sustainable option to dents who will connect with, learn from, and share with the people sell to community members. Several of the women are trained seamof Rusinga Island. Peter stresses and have sewing machines, and they Morris C’2002 S’2008, Luke plan to make this a group project, with each Bruckner C’2005, Heidi member having her own part in the process Hjelm C’2003, Matt Peterfrom construction to distribution. son C’2000, and Gayle Hammer C’2003 are determined Athletics to help bring these initiatives to life.

Champro Sports of Wheeling, IL, provided the North Park group with two bags of socKamasengre Mixed cer balls, basketballs, and American footballs.

Secondary School Kamasengre Mixed Secondary School shared Sponsorship Program soccer balls with the other schools in the community, as they were so grateful to receive this Free secondary public educaabundant donation. tion is not an option on Rusinga. There are many schools The North Park team had the opportunity to on Rusinga at varying costs, watch some football practice and matches at and many students leave for the school. Peter sent along some goalie gloves, boarding school in other areas. The local secondary school is Ka- as he easily sympathized with bare hands blocking some high-speed masengre Mixed. Presently it costs $200 per year per student. To shots. Still, most players are not equipped with boots (cleats), shin put this in perspective, many workers make less than $3 per day. guards, or socks.

Thus, most students are sent home several times throughout the year due to lack of fees, and this greatly affects their commitment and Medical Supplies performance. In addition, lack of fees is a vicious cycle which affects the teachers’ and school’s functioning.

Heidi delivered medical supplies donated by her hospital to the Dr. Williams Dispensary Clinic. She worked side by side with the staff Volunteers can help improve the school and the community by of- at the clinic to administer treatment and consultations to patients. fering a measure of stability by funding students. The North Park team’s plan is to cover 3/4 of the fee for as many students as possible, Hammer said, “North Park taught me that we have a responsibility which will help pay teachers and complete projects that are in the to the greater community, something greater than ourselves. Parschool’s development plan. Their hope is that by offering this stabil- ticipating in Operation My People is a wonderful way to extend ity, the school’s rating will improve and it will become eligible for North Park’s mission into the world. I hope to return and volunteer more public funding. every year.”

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ALUMNI NOTES navigation, representation, education, and advisement service.

Visit the organization’s website at www.ChicagoHealthAdvocates. com.

Melissa Grant C’2001 and Brook Enger were married February 21, 2009. North Parkers in attendance at the wedding included groomsman Brian Grant C’98, Tamara Quintero C’98, Ebony Brooks C’2001, Marianna Burgio C’2001, Jin Lee Mike and Rachel (Mason) Verdoorn C’99 C’2001 G’2005, Tricia Peterson C’2005, is aiming to find a position in public service welcomed Jackson Thomas on December 17, and Nicholas Walcott. Brook works as a with a focus on criminal law. Among family 2008. He joins his big sister, Sophia (3). software engineer in downtown Chicago, members with him that day were his father, and Melissa works as a full-time piano retired faculty member Charles Wiberg 2000s teacher and musician. On June 9, Melissa C’55, and his mother, Sally Johnson C’69. was interviewed in a brief piece on Chicago Kerry lives in Chicago.

Grant and Rachel (Nyquist) Bramley Public Radio’s morning show “848”, in C’2000 welcomed Violet Elizabeth on Feb- reference to her work with Rock for Kids, ruary 3, 2010. Violet joins big brother Drew a not-for-profit that brings music programs Oliver, born October to underserved schools and communities.

27, 2006.

Melissa works with the organization as a coteacher and accompanist.

Kirstin Eilers C’2000

married Shane Morris in Issaquah, Wash., on April 3, 2010. On April 30, they retired to the island of Utila, Honduras, where they are spending their “happily ever after” living on a beach island.

Kim and Andrew

Lundgren G’2001

welcomed son Jacob Dean on March 17, 2010. Jacob, born at Prentice Women’s Hospital in Chicago, weighed 8 lbs., 12 oz.

Andrew C’2001 and Erika (Bergstrom) Beckstrom C’2002 welcomed Bjorn Arne

Kieran “Kerry” Wiberg C’2001 was admit- at 8:30 a.m. on April 30, 2010. Bjorn was ted to the Illinois Bar in a ceremony that 9 lbs., 3 oz. and 20 inches long at birth. Big was presided over by the Chief Justice of the sister Annika (22 mos.) is thrilled to have a Illinois Supreme Court on May 6, 2010, in baby in the house!

Chicago, Ill. Kerry, a January 2010 graduate of Northwestern University School of Law,

Brent and Karna (Larson) Markson C’2000 joyfully welcomed Gustaf “Gus” Levi on August 15, 2009.

Raquel Gabriel-Bennewitz G’2001 G’2003 has founded Chicago Health Advo-

cates, LLC, an independent, patient/family healthcare planning, management, advocacy,

| SUMMER | FALL 2006 NORTH NORTH PARKER PARKER 2010 29

ALUMNI NOTES TK C’2002 and Sarah (Ondrey) Johnson C’2002 were married February 23, 2008.

Kristi (Lach) C’2003 and Timothy White C’2004 welcomed daughter Kayla Marie

Sarah and TK celebrated the birth of their son Sawyer Timothy on February 9, 2010.

The Johnsons currently live in Chicago, Ill.

on July 27, 2008, and Benjamin Azariah on February 19, 2010.

Darrick and Emily (Awes) Anderson Heather Loutsch C’2002 and Spencer C’2002 blessedly welcomed Susan Blythe O’Neill were married on August 15, 2009, Anderson, who weighed 7 lbs., 10 oz., on at The Hallmark Resort in Newport, Ore. March 29, 2010. Susie enjoys cooing, smil- They currently reside in Las Vegas, Nev. ing, crinkle noises, and morning time. The Andersons live in Minneapolis, Minn.

Beth Holmertz C’2004 and Joel Houwer C’2004 were married on August 15, 2009,

Jed C’2002 and Anne (Lindahl) Bassett C’2004 welcomed daughter Ellie Jane on

January 17, 2010. The Bassett family lives in Skokie, Ill.

in Rockford, Ill. North Parkers who participated in the wedding included Rev. Don Holmertz C’76 S’83, Rev. Aaron Johnson C’96 S’2006, Dan Carlson C’2004, Leah (Edmonson) Edquist C’2004, Rachel (Johnson) Hall C’2004, Lisa (Lindberg) Hanson C’2004, Jon Jenkins C’2004, Susannah (Bagaas) Johnson C’2004, Andy Plucker C’2004, Aaron Wickstrom C’2004, Dave Lymburner C’2005, Josh Myers C’2005, and Brian Holmertz C’2008.

Dallas B. Burright C’2002 G’2009 and Heather Horn were married Saturday, March 6, 2010, at the home of the bride’s parents in Alabama, where the bride’s grandfather officiated the ceremony. North Parkers in attendance at the wedding included the groom’s parents, Dallas W. C’72 and Marna (Christopher) Burright C’74; uncle Jim Christopher C’71; and sister Becky Burright C’2007.

The couple lives in Chicago.

30 NORTH PARKER | SUMMER 2010

Rachel Bondor C’2003 and Aaron Winer welcomed Simon Winer on August 21, 2009.

The family resides in Portland, Ore.

Conor C’2004 and Susannah (Bagaas) J o h n s o n C’2004 wel-

comed daughter Arabella Grace on January 15, 2010.

She weighed 7 lbs., 11 oz. and was 20½ inches long at birth. The Johnson family lives in Tucson, Ariz.

alumni@northpark.edu

ALUMNI PROFILE

Alumnus Earns Rave Reviews for Second Book Rus Bradburd Brings Together Two of His Loves, History and Sports

by Jennifer Kirkland

R

Bradburd points out that it was Jackie Robinson who first broke the lines of segregation in baseball when he debuted with the Brooklyn Dodgers in 1947, but it wasn’t until 1948 that President Truman issued an order ending racial segregation within the U.S. military forces. He continues, “The book examines the He eventually switched his major to physical education and barely struggles of black coaches seen through the prism of Richardmade the basketball team, “but I was the worst player in school his- son’s life.” tory,” he says with a laugh. “I had tested out of English and fine arts.

I was always a big reader. Every writer is.”

Bradburd was working as assistant coach to Don Haskins—the first college basketball coach to start five African American playToday, Bradburd has found his niche in writing about two of his ers against an all-white team in an NCAA championship, which great loves—history and sports. In February, just in time for Black the team won—for whom Richardson played in the early 1960s.

History Month, Bradburd’s second sports book was published, and When Bradburd met Richardson, he and former UTEP guard once again, the critics love Steve Yellen were running it. (Of his first book, the a program teaching basChicago Tribune reviewer ketball skills to youth in a wrote, “Paddy on the HardSouth El Paso barrio, one of wood was the best book I the poorest communities in read in 2006.”) the US, for the cost of $1 per participant. As Bradburd Forty Minutes of Hell is the got acquainted with Richcontroversial and racially ardson, he became more and charged story of basketball more inspired with ideas for coach Nolan Richardson, his next book. an American basketball head coach who took the “As a writer, I liked the fact University of Arkansas to that his story comes full the Final Four three times, circle and that he used won the NCAA title in his Spanish to coach the 1994, and was elected to the Mexican National Team,” National Collegiate BasketBradburd says. “I wrote the ball Hall of Fame. book more like fiction than biography, with dramatic “I wrote this book because tension and a story arc.

I’m very interested in the Only about four pages of subject of sports as an agent for social change,” Bradburd says. “We the book describe what’s happening on the court.” have a long history in this country of sports breaking down racial barriers. Richardson grew up in segregated El Paso, Texas, and had Sports writer Dave Zirin called the book “operatic, heartbreaking, an inadvertent hand in ending Jim Crow. He was a great and socially and inspiring.” Sports Illustrated commended the “energetic biogsignificant coach.” raphy” for its “humanizing detail.” And former President Clinton described it as “an incredible journey.”

The title of the book reflects the relentless style of defensive play that Richardson developed to make the lives of the players on the Today, Bradburd is assistant professor of English and teaches MFA opposing team hell—reflecting the same intensity with which he writing classes at New Mexico State University. He is currently challenged the discriminatory practices of institutions and individu- working on a short story collection and ruminating on ideas for als in the American South. his next book. us Bradburd C’80 started out at North Park as a history major, “and I had wonderful professors, including Charles Wiberg and Zenos Hawkinson,” he recalls. “But I couldn’t sit still for them. I was too immature to absorb what they were teaching.”

| SUMMER | FALL 2006 NORTH NORTH PARKER PARKER 2010 31

ALUMNI NOTES

Amber (Neels) Williams C’2004 and Kyle Williams C’2005 welcomed a daughter,

Finley Jean Williams, on January 7, 2010.

Findley was born at 10 a.m., weighing 7 lbs., 7 oz. and measuring 20½ inches long. The Williams family resides in Pearl City, Ill.

Michael Guzik C’2005 recently celebrated his one-year anniversary as an account executive with Valpak, a company owned and operated by Cox Target Media in Tampa Bay, Fla. Each month, he is responsible for the sale and design of advertisements featured online as well as in the company’s famous blue envelope. Michael reports that his experience at North Park helped guide him to this career, and that he loves every day.

Dayle Dillon C’2007 has been accepted to the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine in Urbana, a highly competitive doctoral program in veterinary medicine. While at North Park, she played on the softball team and was a member of the National Biological Honor Society, Tri-Beta.

Prior to attending veterinary college, Dayle conducted pharmaceutical research for CorDynamics and coached Junior Olympic volleyball for the North Shore Assault.

Community House. North Parkers in the wedding included officiant Brian McCutchen S’2007; matrons of honor Erikka (Treatch) Hedberg C’2007 and Esther (Wise) Ortlund C’2007; groomsmen Danny Bruggeman C’2008, Christopher Wall C’2008 S’2012, and Ben Jasmer C’2011; Marylis (Sturdy) Peterson A’58, Bonnie (Sturdy) Fenton C’53, Eric Strom C’2001, Becky (Johnson) Ykema C’2005, Carri Behal C’2007, Susan Frazier C’2007, Krista Lindwall C’2007, Austin Bailey C’2007 S’2011, Ashley (Thain) Bailey C’2008, Meghan (O’Connor) Bruggeman C’2008, Andy Jones C’2008, Drew Lind- Rachel Madvig C’2009 married Stephen strom C’2009, Trevor Nicholas C’2008 Zimmerly on June 13, 2009, at Treasure S’2007. The Sturdys live in Chicago.

Lake Church in DuBois, Pa. North Parkers participating in the ceremony were mother Dana (Wilson) Minor C’2007 graduated of the bride Darlene (Nicoletto) Madvig from DePaul University College of Law in Ostrom C’78, Linnea Ek C’2009, Emily May 2010. Dana plans to practice law in Tisch C’2009, Bethany (Crino) Staswick Nashville, Tenn., with a goal to focus in C’2009, Eric Staswick C’2009, and Ruth family law.

Wise C’2009. Stepfather of the bride Don Ostrom C’66 S’73 officiated. The couple Jon Heaps C’2008 received a Master of lives in Erie, Pa. Arts in Philosophy from Boston College in May 2010. In the fall of 2011, he will begin Rodney Shiflett C’2012, a church and studies in the Ph.D. program in philosophy ministry management major in the School at SIU Carbondale. of Adult Learning, was asked to join the staff as associate pastor at City of Hope, a new Covenant church plant in the city of Bolingbrook, Ill. Launch team meetings are currently being held twice a month. More information can be found online at http:// cityofhope.cc.

Alicia Ann Hanson C’2007 and Andrew Robert Sturdy C’2008 S’2011 were mar-

ried on October 11, 2008, at Winnetka Evangelical Covenant Church in Wilmette, Ill. A reception followed at the Winnetka

32 NORTH PARKER | SUMMER 2010

alumni@northpark.edu

ALUMNI NOTES

As of March 7, 2010, several generations of North Parkers and their friends officially took the reins of the publication of Pietisten (The Pietist), an independent, ecumenical journal drawing from the Lutheran Pietist heritage of the Evangelical Covenant Church. The new volunteer staff includes Sandy Nelson C’85, Steph Johnson Blomgren C’96, David Nelson C’2000, Mark E. Swanson C’2001 S’2006, and Mark Safstrom C’2002. Brad Halverson C’87 and Kendall Magnuson C’89 have joined the board of directors, and editor emeritus Phil Johnson C’60 remains on the board. Originally founded in 1842 in Sweden and including such editors as P.P. Waldenström and C.O. Rosenius, Pietisten has been published out of Minneapolis since 1986, resurrected by Tommy Carlson C’71, David Hawkinson C’71 S’77, and Peter Sandstrom C’75 S’80. Countless North Parkers have contributed articles and news over the years, and a dozen North Parkers serve on the advisory board. To find out more about Pietisten, visit www.pietisten.org or Pietisten’s page on Facebook.

London Service Organization presented Alf and his wife of 58 years, Sonja (Torstenson) A’48 C’50, with the Third-of-a-Century award for outstanding community service. In addition to his wife, survivors include two sons, Brent and Kurt, and a granddaughter, Lily.

Dorothy (Jacobson) Vann, who worked in the North Park library, passed away on May Organist and humorist Wallace H. “Wally” 10, 2010, at the age of 95.

Wiese C’56, died on March 3, 2010, at Select Specialty Hospital in Erie, Pa., at the Dr. Darline Wilke, Professor of Nursing and age of 74. Born on January 5, 1936, Wally Assistant Dean for Academic Affairs in the enjoyed a long and distinguished career as School of Nursing, passed away on May 24, a keyboard artist. Throughout his career, 2010, at the age of 81.

Wally concertized extensively in the U.S. and in Europe, most notably in France, England, and Poland.

Obituaries

Nancy (Monroe) Deters A’60 passed away

Don Birkle A’50 died March 8, 2010, after

a brave battle with cancer. He is survived by his brother, John A’48.

and Rev. Paul Hedberg C’73 S’78, brother and sister-in-law Eric C’2005 and Erikka (Treatch) Hedberg C’2007, and girlfriend Taryn Johnson C’2008.

Friends of North Park Dr. Wendy Kent Burgess, Associate Professor of Nursing, passed away on December 3, 2009.

Inez Olander, Assistant Professor of French and Physical Education from 1940–1981, passed away on June 6, 2010, at the age of 94.

on March 13, 2010. She resided in Littleton, Colo., and is survived by her husband, Ron fully at his Skokie, Ill. home on March 8, Deters; three children Gary, Randy, and 2010, following an Aubrey; and grandson Daniel.

11-year battle with skin cancer. Olson Cathy Rae (Olson) was born September Gehring C’82, 9, 1923, in Rockport, of Oak Park, Ill., Mass., and served died on May 7, as a pastor of the 2009, at the age of Evangelical Covenant 49. Beloved wife Church in Iowa and of Thomas and on the East Coast devoted mother of for many years. He is Tatiana, Alexandra, survived by his wife and Larisa, she is of 63 years, Helen (Wallin) C’44; children also survived by her Dan Olson C’70, Dr. Les Olson C’76, and parents Monroe C’53 and Barbara (Havig) Julie (Olson) Bromley C’80 G’93; six grand- Olson C’75, sister Sharon (Olson) Hewes, children; and five great-grandchildren. and many other family members and friends.

Rev. Roy E. Olson C’44 S’48 died peace-

Rev. Dr. Alf E. Jacobson C’48 died April Peder W. Hedberg C’2008 was born April 18, 2010, in New London, N.H. Born April 11, 1986, and died on March 24, 2010, after 4, 1924, in Spokane, Wash., Rev. Dr. Jacob- battling PSC (Primary Sclerosing Cholanson served Beverly Congregational Covenant gitis) and Cholangiocarcinoma for the past Church in Beverly, Mass. In 2001, the New year. He is survived by his parents Hope

| SUMMER | FALL 2006 NORTH NORTH PARKER PARKER 2010 33

ALUMNI PROFILE

North Park Alumni Brighten Up San Miguel Schools David D’Antonio Illuminates Opportunities for Chicago’s At-Risk Youth

by Jennifer Kirkland

E

ducation shines a light into darkness, illuminating the path toward hope, achievement, and fulfillment. For children growing up in low-income neighborhoods, in families struggling to fulfill basic needs, with their grades and self-esteem suffering under the strain, a caring, quality education can truly transform lives.

help us achieve our short-term goals of operating an outstanding middle school, and our long-term goals of impacting the lives of youth in the Austin neighborhood.”

Teaching sixth-grade math and science for the second year, D’Antonio says his studies as a philosophy major at North Park motivate his work with the private Christian middle school. “Philosophy started with one question: What is the just life?” he explains.

“What is the highest good—how and why? Education is the means through which a just life can be recognized, learned, and pursued.”

David D’Antonio C’2008 helps inspire these transformations every day in his work as a full-time volunteer teacher at the Gary Comer Campus of the San Miguel Schools in Chicago. The schools operate with the support of roughly half salaried and half volunteer teachers, each carrying the same intensity of responsibilities. As a volunteer teacher, D’Antonio receives a small living stipend and lives Transforming Lives & Neighborhoods in a church.

The mission of the San Miguel Schools is to transform lives and North Park University alumni have been working at the San neighborhoods, and to equip Latino and African American youth Miguel Schools since 2004. At the Gary Comer Campus, Tim with the resources to excel academically, socially, and spiritually.

Gus Johnson C’2002 is the eighth-grade teacher, and Jon Ecker Students are accepted based on the criteria of academic underperforC’2004 is the school counmance, financial need, selor. Assistant principal and living in proximity Kathy Donohue speaks to the schools. “We inhighly of their contributentionally enroll at-risk tions: “We’ve had nothing students—those with but great success from math and reading skills North Park alumni. They below the third-grade have been wonderful team level—to enter our members and friends, dedschool at fifth grade,” icated to the children and D’Antonio says. “By the the mission of San Miguel. time they get to eighth When David D’Antonio grade, they are on level came on to teach sixthand caught up.” grade math and science, we knew his degree from The first San Miguel North Park was a good campus opened in 1995 sign. For us at San Miguel in the historic Back of School Gary Comer Camthe Yards neighborhood, pus, a North Park degree and today, it serves means something when 80 Latino students in we are looking for potential teachers. With such an excellent track grades 6 through 8. Founded in 2002 in the Austin neighborhood, record with alumni, we know that amazing things must be hap- the Gary Comer Campus serves 110 African American students in pening at North Park!” grades 5 through 8.

San Miguel is a tested and proven success story, one that lights the way along avenues of opportunity for children who don’t always experience success. Assistant principal Kathy Donohue says, “Our long-term approach of helping middle school children and then following them through the rest of their educational career means donor investments in our program aren’t fleeting. All investments

34 NORTH PARKER | SUMMER 2010

The Gary Comer Campus Class of 2008 achieved the best standardized test results in the school’s history. “It’s a miraculous school with a determined mission and model,” D’Antonio continues. “In this neighborhood, with the socio-economic challenges our families face and with the quality of the public schools around, children have no other options.”

ALUMNI NOTES

North Park’s Alumni Association: Your Family for Life

by Melissa Vélez–Luce C’2004

“What does North Park mean to you, and External Relations, the cupola is an historic how can Alumni Association staff do a bet- icon on campus, one that all North Parkers ter job of serving our alumni?” can identify with,” says Carol Callahan, Assistant Vice President for Development and These were the questions recently presented Alumni Relations. “We wanted a logo that to multiple focus groups of alumni repre- would clearly say, ‘North Park!’ to anyone senting several generations and programs who saw it on a window cling, sweatshirt, within the University. Serving an alumni or keychain—something that would inspire base of more than 15,000 people worldwide pride from all North Parkers.” is no small task for North Park’s growing Alumni Association, so staff decided to reach To best serve graduates from all of North out to alums directly and ask what they Park’s academic programs and iterations wanted from the Association. Researchers over its 100-plus year existence—the Acadeand staff prodded focus group participants my, Junior College, College, and University, for their ideas, hopes, and expectations for including graduate programs, the School of their association.

Adult Learning, and North Park Theological Seminary—the Alumni Association has Ideas abounded: events held throughout the also broadened its use of electronic media year and throughout the country, mentor- to reach, engage, and connect North Park ship opportunities with current students, graduates with the University and with personal and professional networking, and one another. the creation of a logo that would be exciting to wear on “spirit” items and which would North Park began hosting a rapidly growing resonate with North Parkers of all genera- North Park University Alumni Facebook tions. To broaden the voice to include our page as a result. With more than 1,000 mementire alumni base, these suggestions were bers, this page is a great opportunity to find then placed into a survey which was dis- old friends, receive reminders about upcomtributed electronically and in print to every ing events, and share photos and memories. alum in our database.

“North Park’s Facebook page provides a way In the meantime, the Office of Alumni Re- for me to stay connected to my alma mater. lations established a new logo that would I love the news and tidbits, reading articles resonate with North Parkers of all genera- about fellow North Park alums, and I feel tions. “Designed by North Park’s Office of that I’m able to really get a pulse of what’s

going on in campus life,” says Barbara (Samuelson) Nordlund C’2001, a member of the Facebook group.

As the association continues to grow and take shape, the Office of Alumni Relations is committed to providing organization and support to those who wish to get involved to enable it to become the strongest organization it can be for our alums. Alumni Relations staff looks forward to helping alumni host reunion gatherings and organize regional alumni events in different parts of the country.

“We are looking for fresh ideas from those who know and love North Park,” says Callahan. “That is what our Alumni Association is all about—bringing together alumni who share a vision of connecting with one another and building upon the rich legacy of this unique University. The association enables you to embrace this extended family of North Parkers – your ‘family for life’.”

To all North Parkers everywhere, we are proud to have you as a member of the North Park University family!

For more details on the North Park Alumni Association or a link to the Facebook page, or to learn about Alumni Association events taking place in the fall, please visit www.northpark.edu/alumni.

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ALUMNI PROFILE

Greetings from Scandinavia!

Ten North Park Alumni and a Lavender Suitcase

by Ed Dwyer JC’53

O

ne…. two…. three! The serenity of early morning quiet and stillness was suddenly shattered by the deep, almost mellow sounds of a 21-gun salute. Each resonant report echoed through the towering peaks of the steep mountainside, embracing the famed waterfront of Bergen—Norway’s second-largest city. Moments later, the rousing refrains of a marching band filled the air. It was the 17th of May, Constitution Day, and the celebration threshold beckoned above our jetlag.

mention, heart and mind filled with respect and appreciation for their strength of character and the grandeur of their homeland. The unending sea and backyards of massive, precipitous snow-capped peaks created beautiful—even intimidating—horizons. Occasional bits of greenery anchored isolated red or white houses and barns to sloping land above glacier-carved rocky shores. The passing panorama spoke of hardy, adaptive, and persevering inhabitants.

Soon, the streets were overflowing with blonde-haired women and children in colorful, traditional dress and men mostly in dark clothing, some adorned with decorative embroidery and wearing widebrimmed hats. Norwegian flags of every size commanded attention, and the passing parade seemed delightfully endless. National pride framed the oneness.

About the lavender suitcase…. that story began less than 30 minutes from a landing in Amsterdam, when the pilot announced that the plane was being diverted to Paris due to volcanic ash. Paul and Barbara Johnson were aboard. They arrived late in Bergen, minus their luggage. Paul’s bag arrived, but Barbara’s lavender bag remained missing. She boarded ship wearing her “Atlantic crossing” clothes, amid offers of loaned garments. Word of the dilemma spread quickly, and most conversations included a “Did it…?” question. Barbara gained unwanted notoriety as a fashion model, with new outfits purchased on the run during brief port stays. On the ninth day aboard, the quarterdeck was crowded with shore-bound passengers as the ship eased into the dock. A call to Barbara echoed in the passageway: “I think it’s on the dock!” A young man stood dockside, delivery order in hand and a lavender bag at his side! Two wonderful reunions had taken place along the Norwegian coast.

Five couples, all North Park graduates, joined the throngs of celebrating people that morning. Though it was by coincidence, the timing with Constitution Day could not have been better.

The idea of sharing a north-south voyage aboard Hurtigruten’s Norwegian coastal ship Richard With evolved over dinner in Florida.

Wishes become reality, and Dick JC’56 and Donna (Eckstrom) Dahl JC’57, Ed JC’53 and Debby (Bengston) Dwyer JC’53, LeRoy JC’54 S’60 and Carole (Johansson) Johnson C’60, Paul JC’48 and Barbara (Ericson) Johnson JC’53, and Armour JC’52 and Bev (Eckstrom) Swanson JC’53 met in Bergen. The comfortable service vessel set off for 70 ports of call, and by journey’s end, many passengers admired the North Parkers’ bond of friendship.

Plying the remote waters far north of the Arctic Circle and beyond the North Cape to Kirkenes (second-most bombed city in World War II, due to mining of quality ore essential to the German war machine) evoked feelings of awe and kinship with the land, its history, and the hardy residents who routinely challenge an unforgiving sea. Numerous statues of a lone woman looking seaward told the rest of the story. Without

36 NORTH PARKER | SUMMER 2010

L-R: Paul and Barbara, Armour and Bev, Dick and Donna, Ed and Debby, LeRoy and Carole

The Alumni Triennial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . September 5–October 3 Alumni art exhibition

10 a.m., Carlson Tower Gallery and Brandel Library. Reception in Carlson Tower Gallery on Friday, October 1, 5–7 p.m.

Plays written, cast, directed and performed in 24 hours

Homecoming. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . October 1–3 Set a Course for Adventure

New Works in mixed media

New Works in mixed media

Fem Gånger Gud (God Times Five), Sweden

by Jonas Hassen Khemiri Friday, October 8, 7 p.m.

Rødt og Grønt (Red and Green), Denmark

by Astrid Saalbach Saturday, October 9, 2 p.m.

Kokkola, Finland

October 3

by Leea Klemola Saturday, October 9, 7 p.m.

Verkeleg (Either), Norway

by Gyrid Axe Øvsteng Sunday, October 10, 2 p.m.

by Bjarni Jónsson Sunday, October 10, 7 p.m.

ÓHAPP! (Mishap!), Iceland

October 8–26

October 8–10

October 29–November 24

Carlson Tower Gallery

The Saint Plays . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

By Erik Ehn Directed by NPU Seniors and Alumni

October 21

7:30 a.m.– 9:30 a.m., The University Club of Chicago

A group exhibition of artists whose work explores the spiritual

Reception October 22, 5–7 p.m., Carlson Tower Gallery

Nordic Spirit: A Festival of New. . . . .

Nordic Plays

Breakfast Series . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

The Book of Souls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

2:30 p.m., Anderson Chapel

Jordan Martin. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

7:30 p.m., Anderson Chapel

The Future of Health Care in America Speaker: Dr. G. Timothy Johnson, Medical Editor for ABC News

7 p.m., Lecture Hall Auditorium

Faculty Showcase Recital . . . . . . . . . .

October 9

A concert for families of children with autism and special needs. Directed by Joe Lill

Project 24 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . September 25

Exceptional Music for . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Exceptional Families

November 5, 6, 11—13

7:30 p.m., except 2:30 p.m. on November 7 Lecture Hall Auditorium

Chicago Camerata. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Chamber Orchestra

November 11

Gospel Choir. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

November 13

Jazz Ensemble. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

November 21

The Junior Show. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

December 1–18

Christmas Festival of Lessons . . . . . . and Carols

December 5

2:30 p.m., Anderson Chapel 7:30 p.m., Anderson Chapel

3 p.m., Lecture Hall Auditorium

A group exhibition of art by Junior art majors

4 p.m., Our Lady of Mercy Church 4432 N. Troy Avenue, Chicago, IL 60625

For a complete list of Homecoming events, visit northpark.edu/homecoming.

NORTH PARKER | SUMMER 2010 37

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