Category: Stories

What Not to Miss: Senior Art Exhibitions

February 14–May 11, the North Park community has the exciting opportunity to attend original art exhibits featuring North Park’s very own senior art majors.

Interested in exploring local artistic talent but not sure where to start? February 14–May 11, the North Park community has the exciting opportunity to attend original art exhibits featuring North Park’s very own senior art majors. Every week the spotlight will shine on one senior’s solo art show. The exhibits are held in Carlson Gallery located in the Carlson Tower lobby. Closing their solo shows, each talented artist will hold a reception where they provide insight and lead discussion regarding their work.

The tradition of senior solo exhibitions is relatively new; until 2012, the senior shows were held as group exhibitions. According to Tim Lowly, gallery director and assistant professor of art, the shift from group to solo exhibitions gives seniors the opportunity of exhibiting more ambitious and expansive work—a challenge they’ve risen to year after year. Professor Lowly says, “It never ceases to amaze me to see the diversity of the work being produced by NPU art majors. This year is certainly indicative of that variety and creativity,” making this year’s senior art exhibitions a series of events you won’t want to miss.

2019 Senior Art Major Exhibitions

Ethan Oliver: February 14–21

Reception: February 21, 5–7 pm

“A display of antique phenomenon and nostalgia, Ethan has composed a compilation of fish and cigarettes strewn across grandma and grandpa’s house.”

Jessica Doering: February 21–28

Reception: February 28, 5–7 pm

“A nostalgic nosedive into the inner workings of a creative psyche. Bring your imagination.”

Samantha Gee: February 28–March 7

Reception: March 7, 5–7 pm

“Magic? Madness? Magicness.”

Lina Granberg: March 7–21

Reception: March 21, 5–7 pm

“As a curatorial studies art major, I am presenting an exhibition of work by two Chicago artists—Shannon Downey and Beverly Nash.”

Rebekah Law: March 21–28

Reception: March 28, 5–7 pm

“An abstracted study of the effects of trauma through monochromatic acrylic paintings of individuals.”

Michaela Scholte: March 28–April 4

Reception: March 29, 5–7 pm

“I want viewers to see how my paintings physically feel; I use paint to map texture and give an understanding of touch and implication of dimension.”

Mee-Joo Kong: April 4–11

Reception: April 5, 5–7pm

“Being real and true is a part of everyone’s humanity; showing that through film is one part of a unique identity.”

Arturo Valadez: April 11–18

Reception: April 18, 5–7pm

Maria Flores de Leon: April 18–25

Reception: April 25, 5–7pm

“Children’s day should be a day where kids are celebrated by their uniqueness, their interests, their personality and so much more!”

Amy Ryzewicz: April 25–May 2

Reception: May 2, 5–7 pm

“Nature is understood through science, replicated by artists and designers, and embellished upon by writers.”

Emmanuel Garfias: May 2–11

Reception: May 9, 5–7 pm

“My art consists of a coalition of familiar forms that hopefully lead the viewer to start foreshadowing.”

Ana FundukFebruary 19, 2019March 5, 2019Announcement, News, Storiescampus life, events, prospective students, undergraduate admissions

Inauguration Week Celebration Continues with Worship Service, Academic Symposium

In a moving all-campus worship service on Wednesday, February 13, students, faculty, and staff prayed for the physical, emotional, and spiritual protection of President Mary Surridge.

The special service, along with an all-campus lunch and academic symposium, was part of the continuing weeklong celebration of President Surridge’s inauguration.

In her message, Rev. Dr. Donna Harris, president of Minnehaha Academy in Minneapolis, encouraged the North Park community to rally around President Surridge and one another.

Dr. Harris called on North Park employees to be more than simply co-workers to one another, and for professors to get to know their students on a deeper level.

“Spur one another toward love and good deeds,” Dr. Harris said, quoting Scripture. She encouraged North Parkers to maintain their passion for the school’s city-centered mission. “Always be a healing balm and remedy for the city’s challenges,” she said.

In a stirring moment, Dr. Harris encouraged the congregation to show their support for President Surridge via rousing applause. She also evoked Exodus 17:12, which describes how Aaron and Hur held Moses’ arms aloft when he grew tired while battling to protect the Israelites.

Later in the service, President Surridge was prayed for by, student Anosh Wasker C’19, North Park Trustee Erin Oleniczak C’99, Trevor James G’04 S’05, associate dean of the School of Professional Studies, and Lance Davis, Executive Minister of Develop Leaders and Ordered Ministry.

The campus then gathered in the gymnasium for a buffet lunch, with a menu that was selected by students, including a variety of comfort foods. Guests enjoyed music by North Park’s student Jazz Ensemble, led by Joe Lill, as well as a student-produced video honoring President Surridge and a presentation of gifts by the Student Government Association.

After the all-campus lunch, North Park University trustee Dr. Kathryn Edin C’84 presented an academic symposium: Enlightened Hearts, Warmed Intellects: City Challenges and Opportunities and North Park Possibilities. In her talk, Dr. Edin, university faculty at Princeton University, one of the nation’s leading poverty researchers, discussed the history of immigration and public housing in Chicago, and how history has set the stage for North Park’s urban mission.

Following a panel discussion with North Park faculty members and questions from the audience, participants were invited to the Johnson Center for the archival exhibit Women of North Park, an interactive visual display that highlights the various contributions of women throughout North Park history.

The day concluded with a women’s basketball win over CCIW opponent, Elmhurst College. During halftime of the game, President Surridge and Dr. Jack Surridge were honored for their shared ministry in Athletics at North Park University.

Ana FundukFebruary 14, 2019February 14, 2019Announcement, News, Stories

Run for the Fund: 10k for $10k Event Exceeds Goal, Raises $12,723

More than 153 students, faculty and staff laced up their sneakers and joined President Mary Surridge at Helwig Recreation Center Monday to run and walk their way toward raising $12,723 in scholarships for the North Park Fund.

“Today was a great example of the North Parkers from here on campus, and across the globe, coming together to support North Park University’s mission of providing a world-class, Christian education to students by funding essential scholarships,” said Assistant Vice President of Advancement Shena Keith.

Runners and walkers were cheered on by North Park students and staff, and had the opportunity to pose for photos with President Surridge. All week long, students are encouraged to take a selfie with her as part of the #SelfiewithSurridge campaign in celebration of her inauguration.

“Our community of students, faculty, and staff made a strong showing today joining together to support our new president, Mary Surridge, during this kick-off to Inauguration Week,” said Vice President for Enrollment Management and Marketing Anthony Scola.

The 10k was divided into three legs: 4k at 7 a.m.; 3k at 12 p.m.; and 3k at 5 p.m. After the last leg, participants enjoyed pizza and celebrated with President Surridge in the Helwig Center mezzanine.

Gifts raised will all go toward meeting student’s highest need: providing scholarships to ensure North Park students receive an exceptional and affordable education.

Ana FundukFebruary 13, 2019Announcement, News, Stories

Inauguration of President Mary K. Surridge to Cap Week of Festivities at North Park University

A weeklong celebration that will include a 10K run to support student scholarships, a Showcase of the Arts that features student and alumni accomplishment, and an academic symposium featuring a prominent Princeton University professor will be capped by the inauguration of North Park University’s 10th President, Mary K. Surridge, on Feb. 15.

North Park will host a week of activities celebrating 10^th President Mary K. Surridge.
Surridge will be inaugurated in a Feb. 15 ceremony attended by city officials and delegates representing universities across the country.
President Surridge was selected and called after a year-long search by a 15-member committee.

Surridge is the first female president of the institution, which was founded by Swedish immigrants more than 125 years ago.

“North Park is excited to invite its many constituents to witness the investiture of President Surridge’s office and authority,” said Owen R. Youngman, chair of the Board of Trustees and of the search committee. “The week of celebration we have planned is a reflection of our commitment to her and to the ideals of North Park.”

Students, faculty, staff, and friends of North Park are invited to the festivities:

Monday, Feb. 11:
7 a.m.- 6 p.m.: Run for the Fund: 10K for $10K, Helwig Recreation Center.
Wednesday, Feb. 13:
10:30 a.m.: All Campus Worship, Anderson Chapel, Dr. Donna Harris, president, Minnehaha Academy, guest speaker.
1:30 p.m.: Academic Symposium, Dr. Kathryn Edin C’84, Professor of Sociology and Public Affairs, Woodrow Wilson School, Princeton University, Hamming Hall.
7 p.m.: Women’s Basketball game vs. Elmhurst College, Campus Gymnasium.
Thursday, Feb. 14:
7:30 p.m.: Showcase of the Arts, Anderson Chapel.
Friday, Feb. 15:
2 p.m.: Presidential Inauguration Ceremony, Campus Gymnasium.

Prior to becoming president, President Surridge served the University in a variety of roles, including vice-presidential responsibilities in advancement and undergraduate enrollment. Surridge also directed Campaign North Park, the University’s most ambitious fundraising effort in the school’s history, with $63 million in commitments, including $41 million for the Nancy and G. Timothy Johnson Center for Science and Community Life.

The inauguration will also be available to view via live stream.

Ana FundukFebruary 11, 2019February 11, 2019Announcement, News, Stories

North Park University Enrollment Jumps, Bucking National Trends

Bucking a nationwide trend of declining enrollments among higher education institutions, North Park University saw a 12 percent spike in the number of new students enrolling for the Spring 2019 term when compared to last year.

North Park’s new student enrollment jumped 12% in the spring semester over last year.
State-of-the-art facilities, urban location and Christian environment make North Park attractive to a variety of students.
New programs in athletic training and pharmacy will draw even more students in coming years.

The 243 new students were attracted by North Park’s Christian environment and city-centered educational opportunities, said Vice President for Enrollment Management and Marketing Anthony Scola.

“Innovative academic programs, updated facilities, and advanced technology have made North Park a first-choice institution with a focus on preparing our students to become leaders in their respective careers,” Scola said.

North Park has remained adept at attracting students by introducing new majors and programs that cater to today’s job market. In Fall 2018, the University introduced its master of science in athletic training and 3+2 bachelor/master’s programs, making North Park one of the first fully accredited athletic training programs in the Chicago area.

Next year, North Park will introduce a partnership with Roosevelt University, a 3+3 pharmacy program in which students start at North Park and transition to Roosevelt in their third year, eventually earning a doctor of pharmacy degree.

A faculty-to-staff ratio of 12:1, a very diverse student body and North Park’s urban location are also major factors in the university enduring appeal to prospective students.

“Our faculty and staff put our students first and will continue to build lasting relationships with each and every North Parker,” Scola said.

In addition, new University President Mary Surridge, who previously led undergraduate recruitment and advancement, promises to continue delivering measurable results across the University with her strategic leadership style.

ABOUT NORTH PARK UNIVERSITY

North Park University is a city-centered, intercultural, and Christian university located in Chicago.

https://www.northpark.edu/

Ana FundukFebruary 8, 2019February 8, 2019Announcement, News, Stories

Campus Closed on Thursday, January 31st

Due to the continued extreme weather conditions, North Park University will cancel classes and all offices will remain closed in all locations on Thursday, January 31, 2019.

Campus Closed on Thursday, January 31st

Due to the continued extreme weather conditions, North Park University will cancel classes and all offices will remain closed in all locations on Thursday, January 31, 2019.

The following essential services will be open on Thursday and available on the schedule listed below:

* Aramark dining: Open for regular schedule.

* Brandel Library: 10 am – 10 pm.

* Helwig Recreation Center: 10 am – 10 pm.

Campus security and Physical Plant will be staffed to ensure student safety and security.

All classes and activities will be fully operational on Friday, February 1, 2019.

Ana FundukJanuary 30, 2019Announcement, News, Stories

North Park Campus Closing on Wednesday, January 30

Due to the extremely cold temperatures predicted for the Chicago area on Wednesday, North Park University will cancel all classes and activities for all locations on Wednesday, January 30, 2019.

Campus Closing on Wednesday, January 30

Due to the extremely cold temperatures predicted for the Chicago area on Wednesday, North Park University will cancel all classes and activities for all locations on Wednesday, January 30, 2019.

The following essential services will be open on Wednesday and available on the schedule listed below:

•   Aramark dining: Open for regular schedule.
•   Brandel Library: 10 am – 7 pm.
•   Helwig Recreation Center: 10 am – 7 pm.

Campus security and Physical Plant will be staffed to ensure student safety and security.

All classes and activities will be fully operational on Tuesday, January 29 and Thursday, January 31, 2019.

Ana FundukJanuary 29, 2019Announcement, News, Stories

Faculty Blog: Keep Calm, The Internet is Off

How can you disconnect & reconnect this holiday season? North Park faculty, Dr. Trevor James shares his thoughts.

How can you disconnect & reconnect this holiday season?

“The WIFI is out,” “I think the internet just went down,” “I don’t have any service,” “Can you hear me now?” These are common fears amongst many people in our world today as we strive to stay connected.

As a professor who teaches marketing and digital marketing in the School of Professional Studies at North Park University, I realize that we are dependent on our devices and many of us are connected 24/7. However, what if instead of panicking when the internet goes down, we looked at it as an opportunity? Like when the power goes out and you are forced to sit around a candle or lantern and play a board game, read a book, cuddle up with blankets and actually talk with each other. If you are like me when this happens, I often don’t want the power to come back on. Well, we have that opportunity coming soon, we call them holidays.

decorative In no other time in our history have we been this digitally connected, through social media, texting, and smartphones, we live in an age of constant global connectivity, yet research is showing we are increasingly feeling more alone, and sensing a reduction of human connection. Marian Rose, wrote an article on the Science of Human Connection and Wellness in a Digitally Connected World and states “Psychologists see a pattern in this success-driven culture of busyness and the associated ‘connection disconnection’ of an increasingly digitally remote world, and it’s triggering what they say is rapidly becoming a dire epidemic of loneliness . . . it seems that quality personal time for ourselves and for nurturing our relationships has become increasingly more elusive” (M. Rose, 2017).

The question is, though we are digitally and globally connected by investing in this communication, are we actually hurting our personal and human connections?

As a professor, my job is to help my students learn how to create digital content that forces people to pay attention to their digital ads, click on links, and spend as much time connecting to products and services as possible. However, I also teach Digital and Business Ethics and my job is to help students recognize the balance and the importance of communicating face to face and making those human connections. Therefore, I would challenge you this holiday season to focus on each other. To put the phone down, turn the computer off, and let the digital world spin without you for one day. It may allow you to connect with a family or a friend in a unique way and if nothing else, really listen to them and allow you to show them kindness with your ears.

If that doesn’t work, you can always turn off the WIFI router and see what happens. Who knows, you may connect with your friends and family in ways you never thought was possible . . . “Keep calm the internet is off.”

North Park is a city-centered, intercultural, and Christian university located in Chicago. Dr. Trevor James is the associate dean, business faculty and director in the School of Professional Studies. Dr. James teaches a number of classes, such as Marketing, Digital and Social Media Marketing, and Digital/Business Ethics.

The School of Professional Studies offers bachelor’s degree completion programs in business administration, counseling psychology, criminal justice, digital marketing, location intelligence, nonprofit management, and organizational management and leadership. For more information about the School of Professional Studies go to www.northpark.edu/sps.

Ana FundukDecember 18, 2018October 29, 2021Blog, Storiesdigital marketing, faculty, School of Professional Studies, sps

North Park University Honored Among National Colleges of Distinction

Progressive college guide features schools with engaging programs.

Progressive college guide features schools with engaging programs:

North Park University has been recognized for its committed implementation of high-impact educational practices, earning its title as one of the nation’s Colleges of Distinction.

North Park has proven itself to be at the forefront of American higher education with a modern, student-centered approach to teaching. North Park engages students in their Christian faith in a city-centered, intercultural setting. Further, North Park’s small class sizes, state-of-the-art facilities, and commitment to equipping students to lead lives of significance and service makes it stand apart from other schools its size.

“Being named as a College of Distinction is a tremendous honor and supports our vision of being a first-choice, Christian university in the city of Chicago,” says North Park’s Vice President for Enrollment Management and Marketing Anthony Scola. “Programs such as Catalyst 606__, our city-centered curriculum, and Crux, our Christian living/learning cohort, allow students to find themselves academically and spiritually. As a university, we will continue our innovative ways of thinking to ensure all North Parkers are equipped for the workforce.”

“We are absolutely thrilled to recognize North Park University as a College of Distinction for its effective dedication to student success,” said Tyson Schritter, Chief Operating Officer for Colleges of Distinction. “Colleges of Distinction is so impressed with North Park’s curriculum, which is enriched with the kind of high-impact educational practices that are most crucial for student development. Such innovative engagement is preparing the next generation of young adults to thrive after college.”

Colleges of Distinction’s selection process consists of a review of each institution’s freshman experience and retention efforts, alongside its general education programs, alumni success, strategic plan, student satisfaction, and more. Schools are accepted on the basis that they adhere to the Four Distinctions: Engaged Students, Great Teaching, Vibrant Community, and Successful Outcomes.

“Colleges of Distinction is far more than a ranking list of colleges and universities,” said Schritter. “We seek out the schools that are wholly focused on the student experience, constantly working to produce graduates who are prepared for a rapidly changing global society. Now recognized as a College of Distinction, North Park stands out in the way it strives to help its students to learn, grow, and succeed.”

About Colleges of Distinction

Since 2000, the Colleges of Distinction website and guidebook have honored schools throughout the U.S. for their excellence in undergraduate-focused higher education. The cohort of schools in the Colleges of Distinction consortium distinguish themselves through their focus on the undergraduate experience. The website and annual guidebooks provide dynamic college profiles, customized tools, and resources for students, parents, and high school counselors. For more information visit CollegesofDistinction.com.

About North Park University

North Park University is a city-centered, intercultural, and Christian university located in Chicago.

Direct media inquiries to:
Christopher Childers
Assistant Vice President, University Marketing and Communications
cchilders@northpark.edu
773-244-5750

Ana FundukDecember 14, 2018February 18, 2019News, Stories

Standing Out in the Job Market with a Multi-disciplinary Major: Elvin Ahmeti C’15

Working as a senior financial analyst at global healthcare manufacturer Fresenius Kabi USA, Elvin Ahmeti C’15 says it was his combined education in business and life sciences which prepared him for his career.

Alumni Elvin Ahmeti says North Park prepared him to stand out in the job market.

Elvin Ahmeti C’15 took full advantage of North Park’s multidisciplinary academics and internship opportunities, completing a double major in finance and accounting with a minor in biology. Now based in Chicago and working as a senior financial analyst at global healthcare manufacturer Fresenius Kabi USA, Ahmeti says his combined education in business and life sciences prepared him for his career and helped him to stand out in the job market.

Ahmeti developed his skills in North Park’s rigorous business and biology classes, and through an internship as a business analyst at Swedish Covenant Hospital. Ahmeti stayed on-board at Swedish Covenant for another year post-graduation before moving over to Fresenius Kabi. As a senior financial analyst, Ahmeti works in a team to ensure the sustainability of the company’s pharmaceutical product portfolio.

“The fact that I had a biology minor along with my business major made me stand out as a job candidate,” Ahmeti says. Many of Ahmeti’s classes, including Advanced Finance and Strategic Management, were “exact replicas of what is expected from financial professionals in the real world.”

“The courses I took at North Park were challenging and properly prepared me for my future,” says Ahmeti, who encourages students to work hard. “Be focused on your end goal and eventually you will reach it.” While at North Park, Ahmeti’s favorite classes were Advanced Finance, Public Speaking, and Management and Leadership.

When not working, Ahmeti enjoys cooking, traveling, watching soccer, and learning about history and politics. He considers himself lucky to live in Chicago because of its cultural and culinary diversity. One day he hopes to own a restaurant specializing in artisan sandwiches and breakfast food somewhere warm like Vietnam.

onlinemediaDecember 3, 2018March 5, 2019Profile, Storiesalumni, career development, outcomes, prospective students, undergraduate admissions