By Sara Myers-Hogshead, Digital Media & Communications Specialist

Learning about an institution’s history often requires research. To make Rockford University’s history more engaging without reading a book or two, RU’s Performing Arts professor Deborah Mogford decided to produce a dramatization of its most famous class, just in time for one of the University’s busiest weekends. 

During homecoming weekend, Oct. 13, 2023, Rockford University’s Performing Arts department performed Mogford’s production, “The Addams Thread,” focusing on the university’s most well-known classes.

“It’s lovely to read a novel, I’m a big reader, but people remember stories they see visually,” Mogford said. “That’s the beauty of drama.”

Mogford wrote and directed the play as a dedication to the “Glorious Seventeen,” the seventeen women who graduated from Rockford Female Seminary in 1881, which includes notable Alumni Jane Addams, a Nobel Peace Prize Winner and the founder of Chicago’s Hull House. Mogford added that she also dedicates this play to all RU alumni. 

“Graduates of this university can attest to RU’s dedication to advancing knowledge for the students while fostering life-long intellectual curiosity,” Mogford said in the director’s note in the production’s program. “They can also speak to the school’s commitment to instilling in the student population a desire to seek a life of purpose, service, and leadership to the community they choose to inhabit.”

To create this production, Mogford said she researched Jane Addams’s valedictorian speech where she discovered Addams’s nickname for her graduating class. This led Mogford to create a show that touched on how the “Glorious Seventeen” were always bonded and how Jane attending Rockford had the impact it did.

“I got to thinking that’s lovely and it’s 1893, four lovely women, all white,” Mogford said. “The school doesn’t look like that anymore. So, what is that legacy, and how does it look in 2023? So, I thought, I’ll then jump ahead 100 years.”

The play is split into two scenes at different times and places.

Scene I is set in the summertime in 1893 at Rockford College alumna Mrs. Jonathan McKnight or Aunt Katherine’s house. There, Aunt Katherine is joined by her niece Arabella Amato, her niece’s friend Cora Edwards, and her good friend and classmate from Rockford, Martha Gail. The scene is placed 12 years after graduation and four years after the Addams formed Hull House. 

The second scene is set in the Spring of 2023 at Maddox Theatre, where five students are talking about going for a coffee run together when they run into a potential RU student.

“I want to be able to have this piece ready to go at any time,” Mogford said. “So, as students graduate then that part goes to someone else. It’s a piece that’s always ready to go whenever the school needs it for recruitment or historical reference.”

After taking the summer of 2023 to write the play, Mogford was ready in August for prep. Mogford put together the cast and crew and held a complete read-through of the production. She would meet periodically with the groups from both scenes. She added that the cast would rehearse on and off but the final push came 10 days before the show went on. 

“I hope they bring it back for Charter Day or orientation,” she said. “And, when we have groups on campus who are looking at the school we can also do it then if we have plenty of notice.”

THE ADDAMS THREAD 

Performed Oct. 13, 2023 

Written and Directed by Deborah Mogford

Lighting Designer: Eric Brockmeier

Costume Designer: Ryan Moller

Stage Manager: Jeremy Rogers

Technical Director: Beth Drog

SCENE I

TIME: Mid-June on a perfect summer afternoon, 1883

Place: The lush garden of Aunt Catherine’s House on Harlem Blvd. in Rockford, IL

CAST, in order of appearance

Martha Gail: Aubry Musfelt

Arabella (Bella) Amato: Lindsay Johnson

Aunt Catherine (Mrs. Jonathan McKnight): Emmarie Wilson

Cora Edwards (Mrs. George Edwards): Lucy Parlapiano

SCENE II

TIME: Late April on a perfect spring day, 2023

Place: Maddox Theatre

CAST, in order of appearance

Marie: Adara Barrera Medina

Jake: Robbie Strader

James: Carter Coryell

Allison: Keira Alejandro

Samantha: Kaleigh Ferguson

Will: Elijah Lowry

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: 

Nov. 3, 2023

University officials hosted a press conference on campus 

Rockford University, the region’s leading private four-year educational institution, held a press conference Friday, Nov. 3, to officially announce the news that new students who enroll at Rockford University for the 2024-2025 academic year will lock in their tuition for four years at a rate of $37,230.

The press conference featured two speakers: Rebecca Epperson, Chair of the Board of Trustees at Rockford University; and Megan Frankfother, Associate Vice President of Enrollment Management at Rockford University.

The University also broadcasted the press conference live on their Facebook. 

Epperson spoke about higher education costs being a concern to families across the U.S. 

“Rockford University is taking a proactive approach to make the college experience more affordable and more transparent,” Epperson said, during the press conference. “The decision to lock in tuition for Fall 2024 for incoming students means that students and their families and the parents who stand alongside them can plan their educational experience with much greater confidence than they had in the past.”

Frankfother spoke next and added more details and context to how the University can grant students financial aid, and more.

“Rockford University has put in countless hours, crunching numbers and budgeting so that we can ensure that we are able to offer that locked-in tuition rate of 37,230 for our incoming fall 2024 class,” Frankfother said, during the press conference. “In addition to locking in that rate and creating that sense of financial security, the university offers significant institutional aid. Students can be recipients of federal and state grants to also assist in helping that education be more affordable.”

Frankfother added: “We are on track currently to be able to award $14 million dollars in institutional aid for the current year. We are also on track to award $6.5 million in federal grants as well as $4.8 million in state grants.”

For more information on this new locked-in tuition, please feel free to reach out to RU’s Admission Department by calling 815-226-4050 or by emailing admissions@rockford.edu.

More information on how to apply to RU can be found here: rockford.edu/admission. 

Contact:

Sara Myers

RU Marketing/Communications

smyers@rockford.edu

communications@rockford.edu 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Oct. 30, 2023

New students enrolling in the 2024-2025 school year will keep the same tuition rate for four years. 

ROCKFORD, Ill. (October 30, 2023) Rockford University, the region’s leading private four-year educational institution, is proud to announce that new students who enroll at Rockford University for the 2024-2025 academic year will lock in their tuition for four years at a rate of $37,230.

Rockford University understands that the cost of education is a significant consideration for students and their families. Locking your tuition rate allows students to safeguard their financial future while investing in their education.

For over a century, Rockford University has been dedicated to nurturing academic excellence, personal growth, and community engagement. Our commitment to student’s success goes beyond the classroom.

With over 80 majors, minors, and concentrations and individualized attention from faculty and staff, Rockford University gives students the tools to develop the knowledge, values, and skills that impact their lives and our world. As you delve into your academic career, you’ll enjoy a range of stirring topics and thought-provoking experiences in your hands-on liberal arts curriculum.

RU offers:

Exceptional Faculty: RU’s distinguished professors are passionate about student success and will mentor students throughout their academic journey.

Diverse Programs: Choose from a wide range of programs to equip students with the knowledge and skills they need to excel in their field.

Supportive Community: Experience a tight-knit community where you can grow personally and professionally.

Endless Opportunities: Engage in internships, research, and study abroad experiences that will broaden your horizons.

RU is eager to provide students with a secure foundation for their future, both academically and financially. 

Rockford University’s admissions office can be reached by calling 815-226-4050 or by emailing admissions@rockford.edu.

More information can be found here: rockford.edu/admission. 

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:

Sara Myers

RU Marketing & Communications

smyers@rockford.edu

communications@rockford.edu 

ROCKFORD, Ill. (October 27, 2023) – Rockford University, the region’s leading private four-year educational institution, is proud to announce that Student Government President Nor Alamery will be honored in the 49th Annual Lincoln Academy Student Laureate Program. 

The Lincoln Academy seeks to honor students who have exhibited outstanding curricular and extracurricular involvement at their college or university. 

At the November 4th ceremony, Nor will be presented with the Abraham Lincoln Civic Engagement Award, as well as a Lincoln medallion, challenge coin, and $1,000 check from the Lincoln Academy. 

Alex Johnson, Director of Student Involvement and Orientation, says “Nor has truly exemplified the essence of an exceptional student and leader, infusing the student experience at Rockford University with her unwavering dedication and passion. Her ability to excel academically while enriching the lives of her peers is a testament to her remarkable commitment to both her studies and the Rockford University Community.”

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.

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Contact: 

Kayla Eddy

RU Marketing and Communications

keddy@rockford.edu

communications@rockford.edu 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE   

Oct. 18, 2023 

Media statement from Rockford University’s Head Football Coach Regarding Freshman Joey Alvarez being Named NACC ‘Football Defensive Player of the Week’ 

I am thrilled to announce that Joey Alvarez, one of our outstanding linebackers, has been named the NACC Football Defensive Player of the Week by the Northern Athletics Collegiate Conference. This recognition is a testament to Joey’s dedication, hard work, and incredible performance on the field.

Joey’s achievement holds special significance for our team, as he is the first Rockford University football player to receive an award from the conference this season. Moreover, his selection as the Defensive Player of the Week is the first time a defensive player has earned this prestigious NACC weekly award since 2021. It speaks to the tremendous impact he has had on our defense. 

During our game against Benedictine, Joey had a remarkable career day, tallying a game and career-high 18 tackles, including a half tackle for loss. His 18 tackles are tied for the fifth most in a single game in our program’s history, coming just one tackle shy of the school record. Joey’s exceptional performance is not only his individual skills but also the teamwork, determination, and resilience that define our Rockford University football program.

We are incredibly proud of Joey Alvarez and his accomplishments. His dedication and leadership serve as an inspiration to our entire team, and we look forward to seeing his continued success both on and off the field. We congratulate Joey on this well-deserved recognition and applaud his commitment to excellence.

As a coach, I am excited about the future, and I believe that with talents like Joey Alvarez, we are poised for even greater achievements. We thank the Northern Athletics Collegiate Conference for recognizing Joey’s outstanding contributions, and we are proud to have him represent Rockford University. 

Go, Regents! 

Calvin Toliver 

Head Football Coach 

Rockford University

STATEMENT FROM STUDENT JOEY ALVAREZ

“I wasn’t really expecting that,” said freshman defensive player Joey Alvarez on the recognition. “I know I had a good game. But I was actually really excited. I’ve been putting in a lot of work with my teammates.” 

He credits the support of the entire team.

“If it wasn’t for them, I wouldn’t have been able to get those tackles.”

“This has given me a bit more of a boost on the field,” he said, adding that family and friends are extremely excited and proud of his success.“

Alvarez attended Jefferson High School in Rockford during his junior and senior high school years, before starting at RU in the Fall 2023 semester. He said that he is still undecided on his major, but has taken some courses in the Puri School of Business. He is considering a career in the business field after graduation, he said. 

“My goals for the future are just me being able to beat the record for tackles in a game,” Alvarez said. 

Media Contact: Andrea V. Watson awatson@rockford.edu

By Sara Myers-Hogshead, Digital Media & Communications Specialist 

Rockford University kicked off its 2023 Homecoming week earlier this week. Expect jampacked events for students, staff, faculty, and alumni from now until Saturday!

Rockford University is transforming into a time machine, taking you on a journey through the decades with the theme “The RU Times: Rockford University Throughout the Years.”

Each day of the week is dedicated to a different decade, and it’s not just a theme; it’s a full-on dress-up party! Monday is all about the funky 1970s, Tuesday takes us back to the neon-filled 1980s, Wednesday embraces the grunge and flannel of the 1990s, Thursday throws it back to the early 2000s, and Friday brings us into the 2010s. So, dust off your bell bottoms, leg warmers, flannel shirts, and skinny jeans, and prepare to turn back time.

Don’t forget to grab your exclusive Homecoming 2023 shirts, designed by our very own RU student, Rayan Alharbi, available for just $10 at Reggie’s Corner, located on the first floor of Burpee in the Den. Show your RU pride in style!

But that’s not all. Homecoming week is jam-packed with exciting events for students, staff, faculty, and alumni alike. Let’s break it down day by day:

Wednesday, October 11

• Men’s Soccer Game: Watch the RU Men’s Soccer team take on the Milwaukee School of Engineering at 2 p.m. at 8800 East Riverside Blvd. in Loves Park (Mercyhealth Sportscore Two).
• Roller Rave: CAB presents the Roller Rave in Regents Hall from 7 to 9 p.m. It’s time to roller skate and dance the night away.

Thursday, October 12

• Paint the Paws: At noon, join CAB for the “Paint the Paws” event where students will gather at the main entrance of the campus to paint lion paws. (Update: This event has unfortunately been canceled.)
• Women’s Volleyball Game: Don’t miss the Women’s Volleyball team’s second game of the week at 7 p.m. as they face off against Benedictine University at the Seaver.

Friday, October 13

• Art Gallery in Clark Arts: The RU Art Gallery will be open all day, featuring “Long Time No See” (Exhibit A) by Esau McGhee, a 10-year retrospective exhibition exploring McGhee’s career.
• Golden Grads Lunch: The Class of 1973 celebrates its 50th anniversary with a Golden Grads lunch in Regents Hall at noon.
• The Addams Thread: At 1:30 p.m. in Maddox Theatre, witness a play dedicated to RU’s most notable alumna, Jane Addams, called “The Addams Thread,” written and directed by Prof. Deborah Mogford.
• Alumni & Awards Hall of Fame Dinner: The Alumni & Awards Hall of Fame Dinner will be held at 6 p.m. in Regents Hall.
• Hypnotist and Mentalist Show: Get ready to be amazed at 7 p.m. in Scar Auditorium as hypnotist and mentalist Christopher Carter takes the stage.

Saturday, October 14

• Esports Information Event: Learn all about Esports at RU at 10 a.m. in the Esports Lounge in the Burpee Den.
• Homecoming Tailgate: From 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., join the Homecoming Tailgate in Parking Lot A before the Homecoming Football game. Enjoy food, music, drinks, and games!
• Women’s Soccer Team Game: At 11 a.m., catch the Women’s Soccer Team as they take on Alverno College at Sportscore Two in Loves Park.
• Homecoming Football Game: The Homecoming Football game kicks off at 1 p.m. at Sam Greeley Field, with the Regents facing off against the Benedictine University Eagles.
• RU Performing Arts Cabaret: At 4 p.m. and 10 p.m., RU Performing Arts presents “All Around the World and Back Again: A Travel-Themed Cabaret” at the Cheek Theatre in Clark Arts Center.
• Club Kent Dance: The students-only Club Kent Dance starts at 10 p.m. in Kent Hall, so come dressed in style from one of the decades.

Don’t miss out on the excitement and nostalgia of Rockford University’s Homecoming 2023. 

Follow RU on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok to stay updated on all the latest Homecoming news. It’s going to be a week filled with fun, laughter, and memories that will last a lifetime. Get ready to rock through time! 

ROCKFORD, Ill. (September 25, 2023) – After a successful inaugural business summit in June, Rockford University is delighted to announce its first post-Business Summit networking event, set to take place on Tuesday, September 26, 2023, from 5:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. The event, titled “Investing in Rockford’s Talent,” aims to foster meaningful discussions about the importance of nurturing local talent and the positive impact it has on the community, businesses, and individuals.

As showcased in the inspiring video “Rockford University Graduate Helping Students Get Ahead” (view HERE), Rockford University firmly believes that investing in the development of local talent creates a beneficial feedback loop for all stakeholders. By focusing on education, upskilling, internships, and placements, we can not only strengthen our workforce but also contribute to the overall prosperity of the region.

The event will feature a distinguished panel of local business executives who will share their insights and expertise on various topics related to talent development, including employee retention, upskilling initiatives, internship programs, and more. Attendees will have the unique opportunity to engage in open discussions, ask questions, and gain valuable perspectives from these industry leaders.

Event Details:

• Event: Investing in Rockford’s Talent, a Networking Conversation
• Date and Time: Tuesday, September 26, 2023, from 5:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
• Venue: Rockford University
• RSVP: Business leaders can RSVP for the event by visiting https://forms.gle/tQu7X9SqPd2Rqhgp7.

Rockford University is committed to strengthening the ties between education and industry, and this networking event serves as a testament to that commitment. We encourage business professionals, educators, students, and community members to join us in this pivotal conversation and help shape the future of talent development in Rockford.

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.

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Media should RSVP by 12 p.m. Tuesday, September 26, by email at Communications@Rockford.edu.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Sept. 18, 2023

ROCKFORD, Ill. — Speaker, race and gender activist, educator, and Episcopal priest Rev. Nontombi Naomi Tutu will visit Rockford University Thursday, Sept. 21, in celebration of the International Day of Peace. 

The university will take part in honoring the annual global observation of the United Nations to call for all humanity to commit to peace above all differences and build a culture of peace. Rev. Tutu’s visit is also part of the Rockford University Forum Series.

Her forum “Striving for Justice: Searching for Common Ground,” will take place at 4 p.m. Thursday at the Maddox Theatre in the Clark Arts Center, 5050 E. State St. in Rockford.

Rev. Tutu’s lecture will be followed at 5:30 p.m. by a community event in Regent’s Hall, Burpee Center, to celebrate the Declarations and Interdependence– Rockford Series and commemorate International Day of Peace.

About Rev. Tutu

Rev. Tutu is the third child of Archbishop Desmond and Nomalizo Leah Tutu. She was born in South Africa, but lived in many communities and countries growing up. Educated in Swaziland, the U.S., and England, she has divided her adult life between the US and South Africa. 

She started speaking out publicly as a college student at Berea College in Kentucky in the 1970s when she was invited to speak at churches, community groups, colleges, and universities about her experiences growing up in apartheid South Africa.

After years spent as a development consultant, educator, and race and gender activist, she accepted her call to the ordained ministry in her 50s. Today, her consulting business is based on learning from and celebrating our differences—experience gained from her work with truth and reconciliation programs around the world.

More on Rev. Tutu can be found on her website. 

Forum Series

The Rockford University Forum Series presents speakers in a variety of disciplines who have achieved success both nationally and locally, and performers of stature in the arts. The Forum Series’ central programming focus is geared toward students, while also seeking to connect campus to the local community. Lectures and performances are concerned with intellectual, social, and cultural matters of general interest to deepen and broaden students’ education at Rockford University and enhance the rich culture of Rockford.

Forum Series presenters and events cover a broad spectrum of scope and genre. Events have included the Tibetan lamas from Drepung Loseling Monastery and their creation of a mandala—a sacred sand painting; Holocaust survivor Zev Kedem, the compelling speaker who worked with Steven Spielberg on the movie Schindler’s List; Oscar Arias, former president of Costa Rica and winner of the Nobel Peace Prize for his work on a Central American Peace Plan; quadriplegic Olympic bronze medal rugby player Mark Zupan; film documentarian Barbara Martinez Jitner, who produced “La Frontera;” Davar Ardalan, author of “My Name is Iran;” and traditional University events like the President’s Opening Convocation, Charter Day Convocation, and theater productions.

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Local media is invited to the Rockford University campus at 1:45 p.m. at Fisher Chapel where Rev. Tutu will be having an open session with RU students from 2 to 3:15 p.m. 

To RSVP, please contact the Communications Department at Communications@Rockford.edu by Thursday, September 21 at 1 p.m.

Contact:

Sara Myers

RU Marketing & Communications

smyers@rockford.edu 

communications@rockford.edu 

815.980.4809

Rockford, Ill. (Sept. 11, 2023)- The students, faculty, staff, and alumni of Rockford University — the region’s leading private four-year institution — will spend Wednesday, September 13, 2023, giving back to the Rockford community during its annual Day of Service.

In celebration of Rockford University’s most famous alumna, Jane Addams — and her September birthday — the campus is joining together as a community to celebrate her legacy and our institutional commitment to her values. 

“Jane Addams Day of Service recognizes the birthday and the enduring legacy of Addams and her commitment to working for the common good,” said Mary Weaks-Baxter, Ph.D., Director of the Jane Addams Center for Civic Engagement at Rockford University. “Our hope is that this Day of Service can be an opportunity for us to consider ways we can reach out to communities in need and recognize how community engagement and activism can unite us in the common goal of working for the betterment of our society and world.”  

The 2023 Day of Service will benefit local organizations, including Noah’s Ark Animal Shelter, Kids Around the World, Miss Carly’s, the Discovery Center, Tinker Swiss Cottage, Burpee Museum of Natural History, Veterans Drop-In  Center, and more.

Students, faculty and staff will also include on-campus projects to improve Clark Arts Center, Starr Science Center, Lang Wellness Center for Health and Wellness, and Seaver Physical Education Center. 

Students, faculty, and staff will be spending the day volunteering not only on campus, but across the city of Rockford.

Photo and B-roll Opportunities:

• Students, staff and faculty will be working on projects at Clark Arts Center, Starr Science Center and Lang Wellness Center for Wellness on the RU Campus. Media can come to any of these buildings at 10 a.m. to noon to take photos and/or b-roll and chat with Weaks-Baxter about the event.
• Media can also go to Miss Carly’s, located at 1125 5th Ave. in Rockford at 10 a.m. to noon to meet with RU Marketing/Communications to take b-roll, as well.

RSVP to RU Marketing/Communications by emailing us at communications@rockford.edu by 8 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 13.

ABOUT ROCKFORD UNIVERSITY

Rockford University is a private four-year, co-educational institution founded in 1847 offering undergraduate and graduate degrees in traditional liberal arts and professional fields. The University offers more than 80 majors, minors and concentrations, including the bachelor’s degree completion program for a B.S. in Management Studies. Through its Graduate Studies department, degrees are extended to include the Master of Business Administration (MBA), Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT), and Master of Education in Urban Education, (M.Ed.). 

Rockford University is home to one of only 11 Phi Beta Kappa (PBK) chapters in Illinois, the most prestigious honor society in the United States. Named by The Princeton Review as a Best Midwestern College and is a U.S. News & World Report Best Midwest Regional University, Rockford University currently serves approximately 1,250 full-and part-time students.

Congrats to Staff/Faculty Emily Webb and Ian Seivert who won the Rockford University President’s Opening Convocation 2023 drawing!

Emily Webb (Assistant Professor of Biology) won a $50 Starbucks gift card. Ian Seivert (Assistant Director of Information Technology) won the 10 free meals in the Rockford University dining hall. Staff and/or faculty who attended the Friday, Aug. 25, event were eligible for the prizes. 

Director of University Events Tara Vanden Branden can be seen in the below video picking the winners.