By Sara Myers-Hogshead, Digital Media & Communications Specialist 

As part of his internship at Midway Village Museum, Rockford University student Rudy Vazquez recently helped put together an exhibit just in time for Black History Month called “Breaking Barriers: the 1950s Strike for Equality in Rockford.”

Vazquez’s internship started in September 2023, and his main task was doing research through the newspaper database at the museum.

The exhibit is about an incident in the early 1950s in Rockford. An African-American worker, Charles Wortham, was involved in a racial incident and about 600 workers walked out with the employee at the business Gunite in 1957, Vazquez said.

Employees who walked out also signed a paper with their support for Wortham. One issue at the time was that many of the newspapers that covered the story did not tell the whole truth and were owned by White men. Vazquez was able to find a Black-owned newspaper called The Rockford Crusader that told this story of solidarity between the man and his employees who walked out with him.

The exhibit in the museum is on four large panels. It shows the different elements of the story and who was involved in this walkout through photos and newspaper clippings, he said.

Vazquez will be working on another exhibit for the museum next month for Women’s History Month which will feature RU Alum Julia Lathrop and more. His internship at the museum will end in early March. 

The Black History Month exhibit at the museum was featured on  MyStateline.com on Feb. 1. 

Vazquez is very involved on campus here at RU. He is the V.P. of the Rockford Chapter of PSI CHI, and is team captain of the Esports team Rainbow 6 Siege. He will be graduating this May with a B.S. in Psychology, a B.S. in Criminal Justice, and a B.A. in History with a minor in Ancient and Medieval Studies and a minor in Religious Studies. 

He plans to continue his studies further upon graduation and will study Religion in graduate school. 

Rockford University President Dr. Patricia Lynott has issued the following statement on Black History Month:

“At Rockford University, we recognize the importance of diversity and inclusion in fostering a dynamic academic and intellectual community. As we commemorate Black History Month, we celebrate the significant impact of African American culture, resilience, and contributions to our society.

Black History Month serves as a critical reminder of the ongoing struggle for equality and justice and provides us with an opportunity to honor the countless individuals who have shaped history through their courage, creativity, and leadership. As we observe Black History Month, let us not only celebrate the achievements of the past, but also recommit ourselves to the pursuit of knowledge, understanding, and social justice.”

Rockford, IL – February 14, 2024 – Rockford University is excited to announce the launch of the Burpee Mural Project. This project invited all Rockford University Studio Art majors and minors to showcase their creativity and talent by submitting a design of a mural for the central location of the Burpee Center. 

The idea for the project came from Rockford University President, Patricia Lynott. The competition offered a grand prize of $1,000, sponsored by Lynott herself. Additionally, Lynott, along with Rockford University Board Chair Rebecca Epperson and Board Trustee Joel Moore, have pledged $100 each to recognize the efforts of the other five students participating in the contest. 

The theme of the mural, “Rockford University Past, Present, & Future,” challenged participants to encapsulate the institution’s rich history, vibrant present, and promising future in their designs. From the origins of Rockford Female Seminary to the aspirations for the years ahead, the mural aims to inspire the entire Rockford University community. 

“The quality and thought process each student brought to their designs were incredible,” said Rebecca Epperson, Chair, of Rockford University Board of Trustees. “It was an honor to participate as a juror in this competition. Based on the designs created, the Studio Arts students at Rockford University have very bright futures ahead.” 

Rockford University Trustee, Joel Moore added “I’m so grateful these talented students took the time to share their impressive work.  We’re excited to present their Art for everyone to appreciate and enjoy.” 

Each student was required to present their design to the jury, consisting of President Lynott, two members of the Board of Trustees, and two faculty members from the Department of Art and Art History. The presentations coincided with the Rockford University Board of Trustees meeting held on February 9th and 10th. The winning entry was created by student Angelica Ramos Ortiz. Ortiz’s submission depicts the theme in a well-captured and exciting way.  

“We’re thrilled to see the creativity and passion our students brought to this project,” said Langworthy, organizer and facilitator of the competition and Dean of the College of Arts & Humanities at Rockford University. “This mural will not only beautify the Burpee Center but also serve as a source of inspiration for generations to come.” 

 In addition to the prize money, the costs of supplies for the mural will also be covered. 

Rockford University looks forward to witnessing the artistic endeavors of its talented students and the lasting impact of the Burpee Mural Project.

Contact:

Rockford University Marketing & Communications

communications@rockford.edu

Rockford, IL (February 8, 2024) – Rockford University is thrilled to announce Gala 2024 Cocktails & Compositions is set to take place on Saturday, February 10, 2024, at 6:00 p.m. This interactive social event aims to raise funds for the campus library while providing guests with a memorable evening filled with literary-inspired delights.

Attendees can expect to embark on a journey through the world of literature as they indulge in literary-themed food stations spread across two floors. From vocal performances to poetry readings and human library presentations, there will be no shortage of engaging entertainment throughout the evening.

One of the highlights of the event is the signature cocktail, “The Page Turner,” a delicious bourbon lemonade. Guests purchasing this cocktail will receive a commemorative cup to remember the occasion. As they traverse the library, guests will have the opportunity to explore a diverse range of experiences and flavors.

In addition to the culinary delights and entertainment, the Gala will feature a 50/50 raffle and a Silent Auction boasting an array of beautiful baskets up for grabs.

Attendees are encouraged to embrace the theme by dressing as their favorite literary character or opting for cocktail attire.

We are excited to host an event that celebrates the magic of literature while supporting our campus library. The Gala promises to be an enchanting evening that guests won’t soon forget.

The media is invited to attend the Gala this Saturday at the Howard Colman Library at 6 p.m. and cover the event. The library is located on RU’s campus at 5050 E. State St. in Rockford.

For media inquiries, please contact:

Sara Myers-Hogshead

Digital Media & Communications Specialist 

Rockford University 

SHogshead@rockford.edu

communications@rockford.edu

815-394-5052

Rockford University is thrilled to announce that our Performing Arts Department received a Rockford Area Arts Council 2024 Community Arts Access Grant for $2,500. 

Beth Drog, Chair of the RUPA department, attended the RAAC 2024 Access Grant Reception today at the Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau in downtown Rockford, where she accepted this grant.

This grant will go toward the RUPA students attending the 2024 Edinburgh Fringe Festival in Scotland. RU students will tour Edinburgh, learn about its rich history of performing arts, attend performances at the festival,  and perform their pieces for festival audiences. $2,000 will cover one student’s trip. 

Anyone interested in helping the RUPA department raise more money for their trip, can head here.  

Due to the predicted forecast, Rockford University’s campus will be closed tomorrow, Tuesday, Jan. 9, 2024. RU staff and faculty will be working remotely. 

Stay safe and stay warm, Regents!

-RU Communications 

ROCKFORD, Ill. (January 5, 2024) – In a call to action collaboration, State Representative Maurice West, MENtality Unchained, Rockford University, The Jane Addams Center, Rockford Forum Series, and Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Incorporated proudly announce their partnership for the MLK (Martin Luther King, Jr.) State of the Mind Address. Scheduled for January 13th, 2023, at Rockford University’s Maddox Theatre (5050 E State St, Rockford, IL 61108) from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM, this event aims to shed light on the critical issues of mental health and trauma within our community.

The MLK State of the Mind Address is not just an event; it’s a call to action. Open to the public, the occasion invites attendees to participate in an enlightening discourse surrounding mental health and the intricacies of trauma. The program starts at noon with small plates and a vendor reception in the lobby, setting the stage for a meaningful exchange of ideas.

Community leaders from various sectors will be actively involved in the discussions, emphasizing the importance of understanding and addressing mental health challenges. With representation from the community and leadership, the event promises a diverse range of perspectives and expertise.

“We are thrilled to bring together such esteemed organizations and leaders to address the pressing issues of mental health and trauma in our community,” says State Representative Maurice West. “By fostering an open dialogue, we hope to create awareness and encourage positive action towards mental well-being.”

The collaboration signifies a commitment to the well-being of Rockford residents, as the participating organizations pool their resources and expertise to tackle the multifaceted aspects of mental health.

Members of the press are invited to attend and cover this momentous event. For media inquiries, please contact Mercedes Joyner at Mjoyner@rockford.edu.

RU is hosting a press conference for the event Monday, Jan. 8 at noon. Speakers at the press conference will include Dr. Patricia Lynott, President of Rockford University; Maurice West, State Representative; Dr. Kevin Thomas, MENtality Unchained; and Anibal Vega, President of Alpha Phi Alpha Incorporated. 

The press conference will be held at the Blanche Walker Burpee Center at RU, at 5050 E. State St. in Rockford. 

Media is asked to arrive by 11:45 a.m. Those interested can email Joyner at MJoyer@rockford.edu or RSVP or communications@rockford.edu. 

About Rockford University:

Rockford University, a private four-year institution in Rockford, Illinois, is dedicated to providing a quality education rooted in liberal arts and professional studies. With a rich history from 1847, RU is committed to preparing students for rewarding careers, responsible citizenship, and lifelong learning. To learn more about Rockford University, visit our website at www.rockford.edu.

###

Contact: 

Mercedes Joyner

RU Marketing and Communications

mjoyner@rockford.edu 

communications@rockford.edu

By Sara Myers, Digital Media & Communications Specialist 

Former U.S. Justice Sandra Day O’Connor died this past Saturday, Dec. 2, 2023, according to CNN. 

O’Connor was the first woman to sit on the U.S. Supreme Court. According to CNN, the former U.S. Justice died from “complications related to advanced dementia.” She was 93. 

According to the Rockford Register Star, the Hon. Sandra Day O’Connor delivered the commencement address at Rockford University on May 14, 1989. O’Conner was also a recipient of the Jane Addams Medal in 1987. 

In the CNN article, President Joe Biden called her “an American icon” and also said, “I did not agree with all of her opinions, but I admired her decency and unwavering devotion to the facts, to our country, to active citizenship and the common good.”

ROCKFORD, IL.- Rockford University is thrilled to announce its upcoming December Recognition Ceremony, a momentous occasion to honor the achievements of our dedicated students. The ceremony is scheduled to commence at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, December 9th at Rockford University in the Clark Arts building at Maddox Theatre located at 5050 E. State St., Rockford, IL, 61108. This event promises to be a celebration of academic excellence and a culmination of hard work and commitment.

The ceremony will include remarks from Rockford University President Patricia Lynott, the Board of Trustees Chair Rebecca Epperson, Provost Dr. Elizabeth Davies, Trustee Kristin Smith, and student speaker Cecilia Hartstock.

As part of the day’s festivities, the university will host a nurse pinning ceremony, recognizing the accomplishments of our nursing graduates. The nurse pinning ceremony is set to take place at 9:00 a.m., preceding the main recognition event. This special occasion highlights the dedication and expertise of our nursing students as they embark on their professional journeys.

Rockford University extends a warm invitation to families, friends, faculty, and the community to join us in celebrating the outstanding accomplishments of our graduates. The December Recognition Day is a time-honored tradition, and we look forward to sharing this momentous occasion with everyone.

As this is not an official commencement event, faculty members will not enter in procession or wear academic dress. We will have a reserved seating section for faculty and staff members. 

The ceremony starts at 11 a.m. in Maddox. Rockford University is located at 5050 E. State St. in Rockford, Illinois. 

Media is invited to attend the ceremony and take pictures or film B-roll. Please come at 10:45 a.m. before the start of the commencement ceremony. 

About Rockford University:

Rockford University, a private four-year institution in Rockford, Illinois, is dedicated to providing a quality education rooted in liberal arts and professional studies. With a rich history dating back to 1847, RU is committed to preparing students for rewarding careers, responsible citizenship, and lifelong learning. To learn more about Rockford University, visit our website at www.rockford.edu.

Contact:

RU Marketing & Communications

communications@rockford.edu 

ROCKFORD, Ill. – [Nov. 28, 2023] – Rockford University hosted a groundbreaking ceremony on Tuesday, Nov. 28, for its much-anticipated baseball and softball fields, made possible by a significant $3.58 million investment from the state of Illinois. 

The groundbreaking ceremony featured key speakers, including Rockford Mayor Tom McNamara, alumni, Athletic Director Jason Mulligan, President Patricia Lynott, and VP of Advancement Linda Sandquist.

“This $3.5 million investment is amazing and is huge for Rockford University,” expressed Rockford Mayor Tom McNamara. “We couldn’t be more proud of Rockford University, and this is yet another reason for all of us to celebrate the tremendous traditions that have taken place here at the university.”

The new facilities, funded by Illinois’s Independent Colleges Capital Investment Grant, signify a significant advancement for Rockford University’s athletic programs. The project aligns with the university’s commitment to providing a world-class experience for its students, athletes, and the broader campus community.

Rockford University Athletic Director Jason Mulligan emphasized the impact of the project on the university’s competitiveness and overall campus experience. 

“We often speak of the need for our facilities to have a ‘wow’ factor for our recruits and prospective athletes and their families,” said Mulligan. 

“Along with recent renovations to the Seaver Center, this addition will indeed have a ‘wow’ factor. This allows us to be more competitive within the Northern Athletics Collegiate Conference and helps provide a first-class experience for our students. This project also benefits the entire campus community. Students, faculty, and staff can now come over and watch the team play. This is the first baseball and softball dedicated turf field in the area. We look forward to hosting local teams and tournaments throughout the year.”

For media inquiries, please contact Communications@rockford.edu.

Photos from the event can be viewed here.