Category: Stories

Top Ten Ways to Survive—and Thrive—During Freshman Year of College

Transitioning into college can often be difficult, scary, and stressful—here are sophomore Macayla Dowling’s top ten recommendations for making the most of your first year.

Top Ten Ways to Survive—and Thrive­—During Freshman Year of College

A blog post by North Park Sophomore Macayla Dowling

Transitioning into college can often be difficult, scary, and stressful—especially if you are moving far away from home. Last year, I moved seven hours away from my small, rural community; needless to say, Chicago’s urban lifestyle was a major change for me. While my first year at North Park was one of the most trying years of my life, it was also one of the most successful years of my life. That said, here are my top ten recommendations for surviving—and even thriving—during your first year as a college student.

A young woman standing on a park pathway with the Chicago skyline behind her.

1. Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone

Moving so far away from home and everything I have ever known was a huge leap out of my comfort zone, but I would not change it for the world. My first few weeks at North Park were awfully difficult, but pushing myself beyond what I found comfortable led to a year full of growth and life-changing experiences, which, I’ve come to realize, is exactly what college is all about. Seize every opportunity that comes to you—especially the ones outside of your comfort zone. Try new things and attend events you do not typically see yourself participating in because you might end up finding something that you really enjoy or making new friends!

2. Stay organized

Assignments and activities tend to build up quickly; the best way to keep everything under control is to stay organized. I find keeping separate folders, notebooks, or binders for each class really helps me keep track of everything. I never felt the need in high school to keep an academic planner because my assignments were easy to remember. As a college student, my philosophy has completely changed; I would be so lost without my planner. Recording everything—such as upcoming assignments and meetings—in an academic planner or your phone calendar is an extremely helpful way to stay on top of things.

3. Get involved with programs, teams, and clubs

My first semester at North Park I participated in the Catalyst program, where I met so many friendly people and learned a lot about Chicago. I even found something I was passionate about through my practicum. Fortunately, North Park offers an abundance of ways to get involved on campus. Programs—such as Catalyst, CRUX, or COMPASS—are perfect opportunities to build close relationships and engage in the city of Chicago. Joining sports teams, intramurals, and clubs are also great for meeting new people while pursuing interests. In order to enhance your college experience, I highly recommend getting involved with at least one organization.

Four young women smiling while riding a water taxi, downtown Chicago

4. Go to class, take notes, and don’t procrastinate

I found that one of the best ways to succeed in classes is to actually attend them. Although going to class may become tedious (especially near the end of the semester), it is still important to be present. Taking notes in class benefits me greatly when it comes to essays and exams, but notes can only be taken while attending class. Another tip for success is to procrastinate as little as possible; I attempt to get assignments done early because it guarantees that they will be turned in on time and allows more time for fun or relaxing because I’m not stressing out about assignments.

5. Attend campus events

Campus events help break the monotony of classes and assignments, so I always keep an eye out for fliers posted around campus. From Catalyst on Campus to the Cram Jam (my personal favorite), North Park hosts tons of events throughout the year. Attending campus events is another good way to meet new people, hang out with friends, or even learn something new. The best part about campus events is that they typically provide some type of free food, which is every college student’s ultimate dream.

6. Get a job

Let’s face it, college students aren’t exactly the wealthiest demographic; fortunately, there are numerous jobs available both on and off campus. During my second semester, I found that I had huge gaps in my schedule and decided that getting a job would be an incredibly productive way to fill those gaps. I constantly searched Career Hub and found a position as a student writer for University Marketing and Communications. As an English major, I really enjoy my job and found that working with UMC has provided me with beneficial work experience and has especially strengthened my writing skills.

7. Dedicate time to have fun

During the week, I work diligently, but I always reward myself by declaring Saturday a homework free day. I often find myself getting ice cream, discovering new things in the city, or playing board games with friends. College is often stressful, but that does not mean that it cannot be fun; it’s all about finding the perfect balance between productivity and excitement. Don’t don’t be afraid to set aside time each week to do something that makes you happy.

Four young women holding ice cream desserts in a small shop.

8. Keep in touch with your friends and family

Every day, I make sure to at least text my friends and family to let them know that I am thinking of them no matter the distance between us. Maintaining relationships with people from home is just as important as establishing new relationships at school, because while your new transition may be difficult for you, odds are that it is also difficult for them. No matter how busy you are, be sure to connect with your friends and family at least once a week to update them on how you’re doing and find out what’s going on back at home.

9. Explore the city

My heart was set on Chicago while searching for where to further my education, so when I got to North Park, I utilized my newfound freedom to begin exploring. Whether it be through one of the programs that North Park offers or with friends, get to know the city you live in. No two neighborhoods in Chicago are the same, making it an excellent city to immerse yourself in different cultures. It seems as if there is always an event happening somewhere; not to mention, there is a plethora of free activities to enjoy and over 7,300 restaurants to try. When using your Ventra card and Google Maps, the possibilities are endless!

10. Relax

I have noticed that I always feel like I need to be doing something productive, so I often need to remind myself to take a breather. Sometimes college can feel like a tremendous balancing act between classes, assignments, social life, and extracurricular activities. While it is important to focus on all of those, it is also vital to your health to incorporate time to yourself into the mix. Know that it’s okay to watch Netflix or take a much-needed nap from time to time. Make sure you are allowing yourself to relax after working hard; you deserve it!

Author Ana SeklerPosted on Categories Blog, StoriesTags , , ,

North Park Grad Brings Fun and Games to Young Lurie Patients

North Parker Justin Molina C’17 raised $3,500 via family and friends to bring video game consoles to patients at Chicago’s Lurie Children’s Hospital.

North Parker Justin Molina C’17 raised $3,500 via family and friends to bring video game consoles to patients at Chicago’s Lurie Children’s Hospital. Now, he is partnering with a local company to bring more of the consoles to his young patients, many of whom are confined to their rooms due to their illnesses.

“The kids are in isolation…So being able to bring the entertainment to them gives them a sense of normalcy that is very important,” said Molina, whose story was featured recently on NBC Chicago’s evening news broadcast.

Watch the story above.

Author Ellen AlmerPosted on Categories News, Stories

Advice for Move-in Day

Tips from current students for your first move-in day.

North Park students all have different experiences while moving in. As part of North Park culture, all of your RAs and some other current students will be on the curb to greet you with sweaty t-shirts and smiling faces. They’re just as excited about moving in as you are, and they’ll help you get all of your things into your new room.

Here are some comments from people around campus who recall the first time they moved in and want to give you an advantage they didn’t have before moving in:

  • “Get a mini-fridge. It will keep your drinks cold and give you more versatile options for snacking.” – Male, Class of 2019
  • “Don’t over-pack; and be nice to your parents, they’re really trying to help.” – Female, Class of 2018
  • “Box fans, box fans, box fans.” – Male, Class of 2018
  • “Organize your belongings in boxes while moving out of your house, that way you know where everything is once you move in.” – Female, Class of 2018
  • “You don’t need everything you think you need.” – Male, Class of 2018
  • “Don’t be afraid to leave your door open to invite people in.” – Male, Class of 2019

Learn More

Author Ana SeklerPosted on Categories Blog, StoriesTags ,

A Day in the Life at North Park

What a day is like for a North Park student.

8 am: Alarm

It’s the second day of class. We had our introduction exercises in our first class, and the syllabus was presented too. We won’t be wasting any more time; the real deal starts today. My roommate comes in sweaty; of course, they woke up to meet the gym as it opened. Maybe you’ll get a roommate like that too.

10 am: Coffee

Starbucks or Einstein’s Bagels & Co.? Luckily neither is a difficult choice as the former is across the street and the latter in the Johnson Center. I prefer the snack variety at Einstein’s.

12 pm: Lunchin’

I ordered ahead of time to get my pack lunch at Einstein’s, it does cost a meal swipe, but this way I can sit outside or find a quiet spot in the Johnson Center to call my family, because they call. Every. Single. Day.

60625 is one of the nation’s most diverse zip codes. More than 40 languages are spoken in the neighborhood’s schools, with the area having one of the highest percentages of foreign-born residents among Chicago neighborhoods. You’ll learn a lot from these neighbors, whether through a class trip to Chicago’s World Relief office, participating in an internship at a local nonprofit, worshiping with a neighborhood congregation, or visiting area businesses and restaurants.

2 pm: Catalyst 606__

Some of my friends already have their Catalyst class session now. There are two every semester per afternoon class. I’ve got one of mine next week. We’ve got U-Passes, that means we have unlimited travel on the CTA, Chicago’s train and bus systems, so Millennium Park here we come. We can still explore the city without the class.

6 pm: ARA

Back on campus, everyone calls the campus dining hall “ARA”, it’s infiltrated my use as well. It takes up almost the entire second floor of Magnuson.

8 pm: “Pogo if you love North Park”

Yep, that’s one of the chants at the men’s soccer game. The stands are full and everyone is jumping on one leg with a shoe raised in the air. There are some people at the base of the stands shouting and heckling the other team, in good fun; we joined them for a bit. Why not?

10 pm: Cookie Monster

Some of the returning students want to take us to Insomnia Cookies. It’s off the Fullerton stop and, apparently, the North Parker place to go on a weeknight. There is sleep, but this is college, so…

Learn More

Author Ana SeklerPosted on Categories Blog, StoriesTags , ,

A Message to Our Campus Community

The university’s mission is to educate every one of our students in the liberal arts and professional studies, and to prepare them for lives of significance and service. Our mission is heartily embraced by our dedicated faculty and staff.  This mission has also been affirmed by our denomination since 1891.

As many of you may know, late last week at the Annual Meeting of the Evangelical Covenant Church in Omaha, NE, First Covenant Church of Minneapolis was involuntarily removed from the roster of Covenant churches by a vote in executive session for being found out of harmony with the ECC on matters pertaining to human sexuality and pastoral credentialing.

First Covenant’s staff and multiple community and neighborhood ministries will continue to operate as a church in their own historic building in Minneapolis.

We know that people have many differing opinions on this issue, often very strongly held, and North Park’s community is no different.  Though this was a matter of church governance, having to do with ordination and the congregation’s membership in the denomination, I want to reassure you that it does not change North Park’s mission in any way.

The university’s mission is to educate every one of our students in the liberal arts and professional studies, and to prepare them for lives of significance and service. Our mission is heartily embraced by our dedicated faculty and staff.  This mission has also been affirmed by our denomination since 1891.

Our student population is one of the most diverse and intercultural in the entire nation. We deeply value that distinctive characteristic, and we are building on it for our bright future as a Christian institution of higher learning. We welcome, love, educate and support all students who accept our invitation to learn and grow on the campus at North Park.

In the North Park University report to the ECC Annual Meeting, I shared some of the following remarks:

“Dynamic in our Christian identity, with a mission founded in 1891, we are centered in the world-class city of Chicago, distinguished by the rich diversity of our intercultural student community, and dedicated to preparing ALL of our students for their lives of significance, and lives of service.  This mission has never been more relevant or more imperative than it is today, and your support of that mission is now, more important than ever before.”

“At North Park University, we are prepared to elevate the visibility of our school and focus on the three core distinctives of our Christian identity…our strategic Chicago location…and the rich tapestry of the diverse student population that we serve.”

”The intensely competitive marketplace of higher education will require us to be 100% focused on the recruitment and retention of our students, the relevant and excellent educational opportunities we provide for them, and the ways we must be devoted to supporting the needs of every student who enters our gates, accepting our invitation to study, to live and learn on the campus at North Park.”

“We have an extraordinary opportunity, and a corresponding responsibility.  Students who choose North Park, will have much demanded of them in the classroom and on the campus.  All of us have the responsibility to support and sustain every one of our students, in every way that we can.”

“I renew to you, the promise I made one year ago – to do all I can to serve the students and the mission of North Park University.”

“We are counting on your help.  The Kingdom of God comes through the front gates of our campus every year. And we are deeply impacting the future through Christian higher education. We must help all of our students develop their unique identities and exceptional gifts — find and pursue their callings — and step into the world prepared to lead and serve in the 21st Century.”

“God has sustained our mission and our institution for more than 127 years.  May He guide us now, as we love, educate and champion our students and our mission.”

These remarks, along with the very positive report delivered by Dean Kersten regarding this past year’s activity at the Seminary, were well received and affirmed at the meeting.

I look forward to our continued work together as we advance the mission of North Park University.

With gratitude and respect for all you do,

Mary K. Surridge
President

Author Ana SeklerPosted on Categories Announcement, News, Stories

Swedish Covenant Health and NorthShore Announce Partnership

Under the new partnership announced today, NPU nursing clinicals and seminarian chaplaincy partnerships will remain unchanged.

NorthShore University HealthSystem (NorthShore) and Swedish Covenant Health (SCH) today announced an agreement to form an exciting new partnership that will advance clinical care and patient outcomes in Chicago’s North Side communities. Under the proposed structure, SCH will join the NorthShore health system and continue to operate its full-service, acute care community hospital. The Executive Board of the Evangelical Covenant Church unanimously approved the partnership.

North Park University nursing clinical partnerships and educational exchange programs at all levels will remain in place and will thrive in this transition. In addition, our seminarians will continue to offer compassion, hope, and a healing presence to patients and families through the chaplaincy program.

For more information about this exciting news for the health systems, the University, and our North Side communities, please click here:

https://swedishcovenant.org/partnership
https://covchurch.org/news-releases/

Author Ana SeklerPosted on Categories Announcement, News, Stories

Lilly Fellows Program Selects North Park Graduate Dawson Vosburg into Cohort of Christian Scholars

Dawson Vosburg C’19 has been selected by The Lilly Fellows Program in Humanities and the Arts as a member of the 10-person 2019 Cohort of Christian Scholars.

Dawson Vosburg C’19 has been selected by The Lilly Fellows Program in Humanities and the Arts as a member of the 10-person 2019 Cohort of Christian Scholars.

“Dawson’s selection was in an extremely competitive year—one of the best we’ve ever had,” said Joseph Goss, Assistant Program Director of the Lilly Fellows Program, who noted Dawson was chosen from a field of 24 finalists.

Dawson, who graduated with a 4.0 GPA with a dual major in Conflict Transformation Studies and Sociology, will be engaged in doctoral studies in sociology at The Ohio State University for the next five years as part of the fellowship. “Dawson serves as an inspiration for all students of what can be achieved through studying at North Park,” said North Park’s Provost Michael O. Emerson.

Over a period of two years, 71 candidates were nominated coming from the 100 members in the Lilly Network of Church-Related Colleges and Universities—with North Park as its 100th member.

“Being part of the Lilly Network of Church-Related Colleges and Universities provides North Park University with a number of advantages for our faculty and students. Last year, Dr. Liza Ann Acosta, our University Dean, received a grant for our mentoring program and this year, we have Dawson Vosburg as a Lilly Graduate Fellow,” said North Park’s Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, Gregor Thuswaldner.

North Park’s Director of Conflict Transformation Program, Dr. Robert Hostetter, appreciates Dawson’s inquisitive mind, “Great questions drive Dawson,” said Dr. Hostetter. Dawson’s intellectual accomplishments will continue to shine while pursuing graduate work at the intersection of religion, race, and conflict resolution as a PhD candidate at The Ohio State University.

Dawson’s selection attests to the formation in Christian higher education received at North Park University said Goss. All 10 Fellows are pursuing graduate studies in humanities, social sciences, or the arts while receiving three annual stipends of $3000 ($9000 total).

As part of his selection, Dawson will meet with his cohort of Christian scholars for three days at an Inaugural Conference July 29-August 1, 2019, in Holland, MI, along with their mentors, Jane Kelley Rodeheffer of Pepperdine University and Mark Ruff of Saint Louis University, who will be guiding the Fellows’ upcoming studies. Following this Inaugural Conference, the Fellows will participate in a three-year program embarking on a long-distance exchange of learning experiences, engaging in one-on-one mentoring relationships, and participating in three additional conferences.

Dawson expressed his gratitude for receiving the fellowship. “At every turn, I’ve been given more opportunities to explore and think,” said Dawson.

A supportive North Park team was instrumental in helping win the fellowship, but it was Dawson who ultimately impressed the committee with his inquisitive mind and passion for justice.

“For Dawson, learning is an act of personal and communal transformation,” said Dawson’s professor and advisor Dr. Lida Nedilsky in remarks during the spring 2019 commencement. “I’ve witnessed him (Dawson) demonstrate this inside the classroom as a student leader through his volunteering and as an intellectual partner,” said Nedilsky.

Dr. Hostetter wrote in his letter of recommendation, “The extraordinary scope and focus of his(Dawson’s)community service are witness to this union of thought and action. By working with school children in Houston, TX, immigrant kids in Albany Park, IL, and other Episcopalians in the western suburbs of Chicago, he demonstrates a transformative priority to dealing with Christianity’s struggle with white privilege,” said Dr. Hostetter.

“I’m incredibly excited about continuing to do research and asking questions,” said Dawson on being awarded the fellowship. “Being part of Lilly’s excellent network makes the possibility of working in my field as a professor that much stronger,” said Dawson.

The fellowship for Dawson represents an exciting opportunity to talk with other scholars who are serious in their field and, “who want to think Christianly about their discipline,” said Dawson. As a PhD candidate at The Ohio State University, Dawson will be delving deep for the next half-decade into his studies and for the first couple years will be getting settled into the rhythm and working on his first real-world original research.

Dawson looks forward to advancing in his field and becoming a professor. “I’m incredibly excited about continuing to do research and asking questions but teaching others to start asking those questions excites me as well,” expressed Dawson.

I think being a part of Lilly’s excellent network makes the possibility of that hope much stronger,” stated Dawson.

About the Lilly Graduate Fellows Program

The Lilly Graduate Fellows Program is a part of the Lilly Fellows Program in Humanities and the Arts that supports outstanding students who want to explore the connections among Christianity, higher education, and the vocation of the teacher-scholar as they pursue graduate degrees in humanities and the arts.

About North Park University 

North Park University is a Christian, city-centered, intercultural University located in Chicago.  https://www.northpark.edu/

Contact: Christopher Childers, Assistant Vice President University Marketing and Communications, North Park University, 773-244-5750, cchilders@northpark.edu

Author Ellen AlmerPosted on Categories News, Stories

Mayor Lightfoot Attends People’s Music School Event at North Park

Mayor Lori Lightfoot attended the fourth annual Performapaloozathon held on North Park’s campus Saturday, enjoying performances by young musicians who are students at The People’s Music School of Chicago.

Mayor Lori Lightfoot attended the fourth annual Performapaloozathon held on North Park’s campus Saturday, enjoying performances by young musicians who are students at The People’s Music School of Chicago.

“The arts are so critically important to the vibrancy of our city,” said Mayor Lightfoot, who attended the event with her wife and daughter, and praised the “absolutely fantastic” energy in Hamming Hall, where some of the day’s 850 performers were gathered.

Melissa Velez-Luce and Mayor Lightfoot

Mayor Lightfoot was introduced by Melissa Velez-Luce C’04 G’12, Director of Alumni Relations and Presidential Liaison, who noted that North Park has partnered with the People’s Music School for 10 years, providing mentors, volunteers, and scholarship funds to its students.

The student orchestra then performed several pieces, including a crowd-pleasing version of “Don’t Stop Believin'” by Journey.

Saturday’s event, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., included food tents and games on North Park’s green space. Performances were broken into three segments starting at 10 a.m., 12 p.m., and 2 p.m.

Jennifer Kim Matsuzawa, President and Artistic Director of the People’s Music School, joined Rebecca Ryan, North Park’s Director of the School of Music, Art, and Theatre in introducing each musical segment.

In addition, Erin Matonte, SMAT Admissions Counselor, was on campus recruiting potential students.

Mayor Lightfoot stands in front of Old Main buildingMayor Lightfoot, who played trumpet as a child, encouraged the students to keep up their musical studies, saying that kids like them were the best part of Chicago.

“This is what makes Chicago vibrant and special.”

The People’s Music School is the only tuition-free music school in the city. It believes in a society where all children have access to the unique social, emotional, and intellectual benefits achieved through musical excellence.

Author Ana SeklerPosted on Categories News, Stories

North Park Allihopa, Places Third Nationally at the USA Ultimate Division III College Championships

“Coming in as the 14 seed with only 12 girls, we had two goals. One was to have fun and take in the experience of Texas and Nationals, and the second was to give us a chance to win at the end of games.”

(Back row:) Simone Carroll, Julie Spencer, Michaela Scholte, Kara Lownsberry, Abby Gentile, (Middle row:) Hannah Sahyouni, Vikky Young, Abby Imperial, Erin Staurseth, (Front row:) Kajsa Meyer, Maggie Johnson, Ellie Manderfeld

Hard-earned congratulations are due to the women’s ultimate frisbee club team, North Park Allihopa, for placing third nationally at the USA Ultimate Division III College Championships this past weekend.

USA Ultimate called Allihopa’s performance “the best kind of Cinderella story” in recapping the team’s championships weekend.

“The second-time D-III Championships qualifiers, North Park Allihopa, the 14th overall seed, found themselves facing the top seeded heavy favorites from Bates in the semifinals this afternoon. Allihopa arrived in Texas with a roster of 12 people, went 1-2 in pool play, squeaking into their pool’s final spot in bracket play, and got two huge upsets in the pre-quarterfinals yesterday afternoon and the quarterfinals this morning. Running almost exclusively a zone designed to preserve their legs, they overtook third-seeded Williams in the quarterfinals and fifth-seeded Middlebury in the quarterfinals. But they finally ran into a wall they couldn’t tear down in Bates. Cold Front was too much for them to handle early, and understandably tired in their seventh game of the weekend, couldn’t find the energy they needed to put together a comeback. But they did cement themselves in the public eye. Everyone will be excited to see what they can do next year.”

Coaches Cameron Hodgkinson C’11 and Jimmy Sykora shared their pride in both the team’s accomplishment and the rally of community support.

“Coming in as the 14 seed with only 12 girls, we had two goals. One was to have fun and take in the experience of Texas and Nationals, and the second was to give us a chance to win at the end of games. We accomplished both of those, with the girls playing for each other and showing off their athleticism and heart throughout the tournament. It was also amazing the support we received from family and friends, who traveled from all over the country to watch and cheer the team on! We had over 20 in attendance.”

Allihopa’s Team Bio and Roster

Author Ana SeklerPosted on Categories Announcement, News, StoriesTags , ,

Bridge Communities and Dream On Education Honored with Nonprofit Management Awards at Axelson Conference

The Axelson Center for Nonprofit Management announced the winners of its Alford-Axelson Award for Nonprofit Managerial Excellence and its Excellent Emerging Organization Award as part of the Center’s 20th anniversary conference for nonprofit professionals and volunteers on May 2, 2019.

Brenda Asare, The Alford Group; Maree Bullock, The Alford Group; Pier Rogers, Axelson Center; Kelli Haywood, Dream On Education

The Axelson Center for Nonprofit Management announced the winners of its Alford-Axelson Award for Nonprofit Managerial Excellence and its Excellent Emerging Organization Award as part of the Center’s 20th anniversary conference for nonprofit professionals and volunteers on May 2, 2019.

The 2019 Alford-Axelson Award, given for exemplary nonprofit management practices, was presented to Bridge Communities with an honorable mention awarded to Chicago Children’s Advocacy Center. The 2019 Excellent Emerging Organization Award, presented to an up-and-coming Chicago area nonprofit, was presented to Dream On Education with an honorable mention awarded to Shift: Englewood Youth Orchestra.

The Alford-Axelson Award for Nonprofit Managerial Excellence recognizes nonprofits serving the seven county Chicago region who exemplify outstanding nonprofit management practices. This year’s award winner, Bridge Communities, helps homeless families in DuPage County transition to self-sufficiency by working with partners to provide mentoring, housing, and supportive services. The award review committee believes Bridge’s ongoing success can be attributed to a clear understanding of the connection between strong organizational infrastructure, strategy, and quality programs. For over 30 years, the organization has operated with a balanced budget. Bridge’s sound financial performance and diversified funding model enable the organization to secure sustainability into the future.

The winners of this year’s Alford-Axelson Award received a $10,000 cash prize and commemorative award symbolizing the organization’s dedication to nonprofit managerial excellence. This award honors and continues the legacies of Nils G. Axelson, a devoted community health care leader and visionary, and Jimmie R. Alford, a leading contemporary thinker and practitioner in the nonprofit arena.

Dream On Education, the 2019 Excellent Emerging Organization Award winner, prepares high-performing, low-income 6th–8th grade students for the rigor of a high school and college curriculum.

Dream On’s unique curriculum focuses on scholastic development, mentoring, career exposure, and cultural exposure to keep high-achieving, low-income 6th–8th graders—an underserved and often forgotten demographic—from falling through the cracks.

The award committee attributes Dream On’s success to strong leadership, a rigorous theory of change with clear outcomes and accountability, resourceful collaborations, and a determined mission combined with creativity and innovation.

Dream On Education received a $5,000 cash prize, a commemorative award and a capacity-building package that will support improvement of services and efficiency.

Learn more about both the Alford-Axelson Award for Nonprofit Managerial Excellence and the Excellent Emerging Organization Award, and review lists of past award winners at the Axelson Center website.

The Axelson Center for Nonprofit Management at North Park University is the source for informative and engaging nonprofit professional development in the Chicago region. Through regular workshops, webinars, and an annual two-day conference, the Axelson Center delivers a superior educational experience for nonprofit managers, leaders, and frontline staff, covering a vast array of topics including program evaluation, strategic planning, communications, and financial management. The valuable information presented through these programs enhances the impact of both the nonprofit sector and its professional staff. Visit www.northpark.edu/axelson for more information.

Author Ellen AlmerPosted on Categories Announcement, News, Stories