Campus News

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Jan. 17, 2025 

WHEN: Tuesday, February 11, 2025, 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. 

WHERE: PURI School of Business, Rockford University, 5100 E. State St., Rockford, Illinois 61108 

WHAT: The Data Analytics Bootcamp will include multiple sessions on topics such as Data Approaches, including Survey Design and Theoretical Framework, Identifying Key Performance Indicators and creating Dashboards, how and where to Locate Data, Social Media Analytics, and more. 

WHO: The event is sponsored by Rockford University, Regional 1 Planning Council, and Gorman & Company. 

Facilitators include Ron Clewer of Gorman & Company; Seth Boswell, Steve Gregg, and Jacob Holcomb of Region 1 Planning Council; Jacob Bradt of Rockford Buzz, and Rockford University’s Elizabeth Nardi. 

To register for the event head to this link. 

Media interested in attending the event should RSVP to communications@rockford.edu by Monday, Feb. 10, at 5 p.m.

Contact:

Rockford University Marketing & Communications

communications@rockford.edu 

OR

Sara Myers-Hogshead

Digital Media & Communications Specialist 

SHogshead@rockford.edu

815.394.5052

Rockford, IL—Rockford University is thrilled to announce that tickets are now on sale for the 2025 Pathways to Possibility Gala. This year, all fundraising efforts will support the Student Opportunity Fund at Rockford University. 

This year’s Gala will be held on Saturday, February 8, 2025, at 6 p.m. in the Clark Arts Center on Rockford University’s campus. The campus is located at 5050 E. State St. in Rockford, Illinois. 

This unique event is an opportunity to invest in the bright futures of our students while enjoying an elegant night filled with engaging stories, fine dining, and entertainment. 

The Student Opportunity Fund helps Rockford University students turn aspirations into achievements by providing financial support for transformative experiences like research projects, international trips, conferences, etc. 

A donor’s generosity ensures that every student has access to the resources and opportunities they need to thrive. 

In addition to culinary delights and entertainment, the Gala will feature a social hour and a Silent Auction with an array of beautiful baskets for sale.

RU students will speak about how trips and experiences supported by the Student Opportunity Fund have impacted them. The event dress code is business formal, or you may come dressed as your favorite explorer or adventurer. 

For tickets and more information on the event, head to rockford.edu/gala.

To be a Gala sponsor, please contact Stewardship & Project Manager Lauren Prchal at LPrchal@rockford.edu or 815.394.5190. 

For other Gala information please contact Senior Advancement Officer Tanner Elliott at TElliott@rockford.edu or 815.394.5029. 

For media inquiries, please contact Rockford University Communications at communications@rockford.edu. 

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About Rockford University:

Rockford University, formerly Rockford College, is a four-year, co-educational institution founded in 1847 offering undergraduate and graduate degrees in traditional liberal arts and professional fields. The undergraduate program offers approximately 80 majors, minors, and concentrations, including three 100% online majors through the RU Online program. Five master’s degrees are offered through the graduate program, including a Master of Business Administration (MBA), Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT), Master of Education (M.Ed.), Master of Arts in Sport Management & Leadership (MASM), and Masters of Science in Exercise Physiology (MSEP).

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. Rockford University is proud to hold the prestigious Carnegie Classification for Community Engagement, an elective classification that highlights our dedication to meaningful and impactful partnerships within our local and regional communities. Named by The Princeton Review as a Best Midwestern College and a U.S. News & World Report Best Midwest Regional University, Rockford University currently serves approximately 1,200 full- and part-time students.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Jan. 7, 2025

Rockford, Illinois- Rockford University is thrilled to announce new curated professional programming is available online through the College of Professional & Extended Learning (CPEL). 

The new programming will focus on skills for the workplace through professional courses, certificates, programs, and Industry Certifications. Flexible online courses allow learners to take charge and individualize their learning journey. Spanish language programming is also available.

These professional courses, programs, and certificates include a variety of relevant skills in Business, Technology (including Artificial Intelligence, Information Technology, Data Science, Cybersecurity, etc.), Media Production and Design, Healthcare, Project Management, and more. 

Visit Rockford University Skills Marketplace to learn more about CPEL’s skills-based program offerings. 

Professional programming helps learners stay current in industry-relevant curricula. Whether it is the first job, career advancement or change, or simply continuing education, Rockford University can support learners in their journey.

For further information, please contact the College of Professional & Extended Learning directly at cpel@rockford.edu or Rockford University Marketing/Communications at communications@rockford.edu.

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About Rockford University:

Rockford University, formerly Rockford College, is a four-year, co-educational institution founded in 1847 offering undergraduate and graduate degrees in traditional liberal arts and professional fields. The undergraduate program offers approximately 80 majors, minors, and concentrations, including three 100% online majors through the RU Online program. Five master’s degrees are offered through the graduate program, including a Master of Business Administration (MBA), Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT), Master of Education (M.Ed.), Master of Arts in Sport Management & Leadership (MASM), and Masters of Science in Exercise Physiology (MSEP).

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. Rockford University is proud to hold the prestigious Carnegie Classification for Community Engagement, an elective classification that highlights our dedication to meaningful and impactful partnerships within our local and regional communities. Named by The Princeton Review as a Best Midwestern College and a U.S. News & World Report Best Midwest Regional University, Rockford University currently serves approximately 1,200 full- and part-time students.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

Dec. 11, 2024

Rockford, Illinois- Rockford University is thrilled to announce the addition of two new master’s degree programs in the Kinesiology department: Master of Science in Exercise Physiology (MSEP) and Master of Arts in Sport Management and Leadership (MASL). 

The MSEP degree is designed for individuals interested in advancing careers in personal health and wellness training, health promotion, and physical rehabilitation. Students who earn a Master of Science in Exercise Physiology degree will have numerous career opportunities, including roles as exercise physiologists, cardiac rehabilitation specialists, clinical research assistants, and physical therapy aides.

The MASL degree is designed for individuals passionate about the sport management industry. Graduates will be equipped for careers such as athletic coaches, athlete development specialists, athletic directors, business development coordinators, and more.

“These two (degree programs), sports management and leadership and exercise physiology, are really geared towards the scholars (RU students) that are thinking about what’s next,” said Dr. Cathy Headley, Associate Professor of the Kinesiology Department, who helped create both programs. “Students continuing their education here creates a legacy and commitment to Rockford University.”

Both programs will launch in Fall 2025 and feature courses that will be 8 weeks in duration and delivered asynchronously online.

Dr. Headley adds that she believes these graduate programs will provide a unique opportunity for Rockford University to invite potential students from outside of the area. 

Learn more about each of the new master’s degrees by going to rockford.edu/admission/graduate/master-of-exercise-physiology and rockford.edu/admission/graduate/master-of-sport-management-and-leadership.

For media inquiries, please contact:
Rockford University Marketing and Communications

communications@rockford.edu 

About Rockford University
Rockford University, formerly Rockford College, is a four-year, co-educational institution founded in 1847 offering undergraduate and graduate degrees in traditional liberal arts and professional fields. The undergraduate program offers approximately 80 majors, minors, and concentrations, including three 100% online majors through the RU Online program. Five master’s degrees are offered through the graduate program, including Master of Business Administration (MBA), Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT), Master of Education (M.Ed.), Master of Arts in Sport Management & Leadership (MASM), and Masters of Science in Exercise Physiology (MSEP). 

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. Rockford University is proud to hold the prestigious Carnegie Classification for Community Engagement, an elective classification that highlights our dedication to meaningful and impactful partnerships within our local and regional communities. Named by The Princeton Review as a Best Midwestern College and a U.S. News & World Report Best Midwest Regional University, Rockford University currently serves approximately 1,200 full- and part-time students.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
December 5, 2024

Rockford, IL – Rockford University is proud to announce the formal dedication of the “Zelenka Family Esports Center,” a state-of-the-art facility made possible by the generosity of the Janet Zelenka Family. This groundbreaking addition to campus solidifies the university’s commitment to fostering innovation, student engagement, and forward-thinking initiatives.

Esports is no longer a niche activity; it is a billion-dollar global industry transforming the landscape of entertainment, technology, and education. Competitive gaming has become an integral part of student culture across the country, and Rockford University is seizing the opportunity to embrace this dynamic trend.

“By investing in Esports, we are preparing our students for a growing market, fostering their success, and ensuring our university remains competitive in an ever-changing educational landscape,” said President Patricia Lynott. “This facility positions us as a leader in this space, attracting a new demographic of students who are passionate about gaming and eager to find a community where they can thrive.”

The Zelenka Family Esports Center boasts cutting-edge gaming equipment, dedicated spaces for training and competitions, and resources designed to support students’ academic and extracurricular pursuits. It is a hub for collaboration, creativity, and community, offering a unique space for students to excel both in and out of the virtual arena.

Ribbon-Cutting Event Highlights

The dedication ceremony, held on Tuesday. December 3rd, marked a historic moment for the university. The event featured a ribbon-cutting led by Janet Zelenka alongside university leaders and students. Attendees toured the impressive facility and met with members of the Esports team.

The Zelenka Family Esports Center is now officially open, welcoming students, faculty, and community members to experience firsthand the exciting potential of Esports at Rockford University.

For media inquiries, please contact:
Rockford University Marketing and Communications

communications@rockford.edu

Photos of the center and the dedication ceremony can be found here. 

About Rockford University
Rockford University, formerly Rockford College, is a four-year, co-educational institution founded in 1847 offering undergraduate and graduate degrees in traditional liberal arts and professional fields. The undergraduate program offers approximately 80 majors, minors and concentrations, including three 100% online majors through the RU Online program. Five master’s degrees are offered through the graduate program, including: Master of Business Administration (MBA), Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT), Master of Education (M.Ed.), Master of Arts in Sport Management & Leadership (MASM), and Masters of Science in Exercise Physiology (MSEP).

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. Rockford University is proud to hold the prestigious Carnegie Classification for Community Engagement, an elective classification that highlights our dedication to meaningful and impactful partnerships within our local and regional communities. Named by The Princeton Review as a Best Midwestern College and a U.S. News & World Report Best Midwest Regional University, Rockford University currently serves approximately 1,200 full- and part-time students.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Dec. 2, 2024

Rockford, Illinois- Rockford University is thrilled to announce its upcoming December Recognition Ceremony, a momentous occasion to honor the achievements of our dedicated students. The ceremony will commence at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, December 7, 2024, at Rockford University in the Clark Arts Theatre located at 5050 E State St., Rockford, Illinois, 61108. This event promises to be a celebration of academic excellence and a culmination of hard work and commitment.

This year’s ceremony will include a keynote address from English Professor Dr. William Gahan, and speeches from University President Dr. Patricia Lynott, and Chair of the Board of Trustees Marci Taets. 

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 warmly invites families, friends, faculty, and the community to join us in celebrating the outstanding accomplishments of our graduates. The December Recognition Ceremony is a time-honored tradition, and we look forward to sharing this occasion with everyone.

For further information, please contact Rockford University Marketing/Communications at communications@rockford.edu or Sara Myers-Hogshead at SHogshead@rockford.edu. 

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About Rockford University:

Rockford University, formerly Rockford College, is a four-year, co-educational institution founded in 1847 offering undergraduate and graduate degrees in traditional liberal arts and professional fields. The undergraduate program offers approximately 80 majors, minors, and concentrations, including three 100% online majors through the RU Online program. Five master’s degrees are offered through the graduate program, including Master of Business Administration (MBA), Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT), Master of Education (M.Ed.), Master of Arts in Sport Management & Leadership (MASM), and Masters of Science in Exercise Physiology (MSEP).

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. Rockford University is proud to hold the prestigious Carnegie Classification for Community Engagement, an elective classification that highlights our dedication to meaningful and impactful partnerships within our local and regional communities. Named by The Princeton Review as a Best Midwestern College and a U.S. News & World Report Best Midwest Regional University, Rockford University currently serves approximately 1,200 full- and part-time students.

Rockford, Illinois — Rockford Promise is thrilled to announce an exciting expansion of its scholarship program in collaboration with Rockford University and the City of Rockford. This new partnership will provide eligible students with a fully-funded tuition opportunity to attend Rockford University, enhancing access to higher education for local high school graduates. This initiative is designed to support students living in the City of Rockford, offering them a pathway to a debt-free college education and empowering the next generation of local leaders.

The Rockford Promise-Rockford University Scholarship Program will begin in the 2025 academic year, allowing graduates from public or private Rockford Promise partner schools within Rockford city limits, who meet specific academic and financial qualifications, to attend Rockford University tuition-free. With annual support from the City of Rockford, Rockford Promise will administer the program to ensure equitable access to educational opportunities, aiming to increase educational attainment and foster economic growth throughout the region.

The City of Rockford has committed $500,000 annually towards the tuition of eligible students. This is funded through the casino tax from the Rockford Hard Rock Casino and is part of the Casino Tax Revenue Investment Plan.

“This collaboration is a profound investment in Rockford’s future,” said Mayor Thomas McNamara. “By enabling our students to achieve their educational goals without the burden of tuition, we are not only supporting individual success but also strengthening our community’s workforce and economic growth.”

Meanwhile, Rockford University has pledged to cover any additional tuition costs that exceed this contribution, guaranteeing that all qualifying students can benefit from this opportunity.

“This partnership with Rockford University and the City of Rockford marks a transformative milestone in Rockford Promise’s journey to making higher education accessible to all students within our community,” said Kaylene Groh, Executive Director of Rockford Promise. “Together, we are building a future where financial barriers do not stand in the way of academic and professional success for Rockford’s youth.”

The Rockford Promise-Rockford University Scholarship is aligned with Rockford Promise’s mission of supporting local students through scholarships, mentorships, and community engagement. The program reflects the City of Rockford’s commitment to strengthening its workforce and encouraging economic development. With the addition of this program, Rockford Promise, Rockford University, and the City of Rockford collectively work to inspire youth to pursue higher education and contribute to the city’s growth.

“This partnership with Rockford Promise and the City of Rockford marks a historic moment for our institution,” said Dr. Patricia Lynott, President of Rockford University. “Since 2016, we have
welcomed Rockford Promise Scholars, who have demonstrated exceptional dedication and academic success, reflected in their 92% graduation rate. Last year alone, we received over 90 applications from local students eager to pursue their studies at Rockford University through Rockford Promise. We are proud to deepen this relationship and look forward to seeing our community grow stronger through this initiative.”

How to apply:

Eligible students should complete their FAFSA and Rockford University admission applications by February 1 of their graduating year. They must apply through the Rockford Promise website application. Rockford Promise and Rockford University will coordinate to confirm student eligibility and manage the enrollment process. The City of Rockford will confirm address requirements.

To qualify, students must:

● Be a resident of the City of Rockford.
● Graduate from a public or private high school located within the city limits.
● Achieve a cumulative high school GPA of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale.
● Qualify for Federal Pell Grants and Illinois MAP Grants.

About Rockford Promise:

Rockford Promise is a non-profit 501(c)3 organization and location-based scholarship program that enhances the economic vitality in the Rockford region by providing access to post-secondary
education for local students.

The organization removes financial barriers by offering full-tuition scholarships and providing support to enhance student success to degree or program completion.

Rockford Promise is based on Promise programs throughout the nation, most notably the Kalamazoo Promise in Kalamazoo, Michigan. One of the longest-running Promise programs, Kalamazoo Promise has positively impacted high school graduation, college attendance, property values and public-school enrollment. Local leaders seek to replicate the initiative in Rockford. Through Rockford Promise scholarships, financial aid, and partnerships with Rock Valley College, Rockford University, Saint Anthony College of Nursing and Northern Illinois University, Rockford Promise Scholars attend college tuition-free.

About Rockford University:

Rockford University, formerly Rockford College, is a four-year, co-educational institution founded in 1847 offering undergraduate and graduate degrees in traditional liberal arts and professional
fields. The undergraduate program offers approximately 80 majors, minors and concentrations, including three 100% online majors through the RU Online program. Five master’s degrees are
offered through the graduate program, including: Master of Business Administration (MBA), Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT), Master of Education (M.Ed.), Master of Arts in Sport Management & Leadership (MASM), and Masters of Science in Exercise Physiology (MSEP).

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. Rockford University is proud to hold the prestigious Carnegie Classification for Community Engagement, an elective classification that highlights our dedication to meaningful and impactful partnerships within our local and regional communities. Named by The Princeton Review as a Best Midwestern College and a U.S. News & World Report Best Midwest Regional University, Rockford University currently serves approximately 1,200 full- and part-time students.

For more information please contact:

Cole Bathje
cole.bathje@rockfordpromise.org

Laura Maher
Laura.Maher@rockfordil.gov

Sara Myers-Hogshead
shogshead@rockford.edu

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

ROCKFORD, IL. – Rockford University proudly congratulates senior Julisa Gutierrez on being named a 2024 Student Laureate of the Lincoln Academy of Illinois.

This prestigious honor is awarded to outstanding seniors who “are honored for their leadership and service in the pursuit of the betterment of humanity and for overall excellence in curricular and extracurricular activities,” according to the Lincoln Academy.

“Julisa has been an outstanding student leader and role model on campus, especially through her dedication as a Regent Experience Guide and Regents First Mentor, where she has helped countless students navigate their university journey with confidence and care,” said Chelsea Minor, Director of Career Development & First Year Programs, who attended the ceremony on Oct. 26.

The Lincoln Academy honored top students from colleges and universities across Illinois during a ceremony held on Oct. 26 at the University of Illinois Springfield’s Performing Arts Center.

Each student laureate received the Abraham Lincoln Civic Engagement Award certificate signed by the Academy Chancellor, the Honorable Ron Spears; the President of The Lincoln Academy; and Illinois Governor JB Pritzker, as well as a Lincoln medallion; a challenge coin; and a $1,000 check from The Lincoln Academy.

Congratulations to Julisa for this remarkable achievement!

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Contact:

Rockford University Marketing & Communications

communications@rockford.edu

About Rockford University
Rockford University, formerly Rockford College, is a four-year, co-educational institution founded in 1847 offering undergraduate and graduate degrees in traditional liberal arts and professional fields. The undergraduate program offers approximately 80 majors, minors, and concentrations, including three 100% online majors through the RU Online program. Five master’s degrees are offered through the graduate program, including Master of Business Administration (MBA), Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT), Master of Education (M.Ed.), Master of Arts in Sport Management & Leadership (MASM), and Masters of Science in Exercise Physiology (MSEP).

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. Rockford University is proud to hold the prestigious Carnegie Classification for Community Engagement, an elective classification that highlights our dedication to meaningful and impactful partnerships within our local and regional communities. Named by The Princeton Review as a Best Midwestern College and a U.S. News & World Report Best Midwest Regional University, Rockford University currently serves approximately 1,200 full- and part-time students.

By Kayla Eddy, Social Media & Web Coordinator 

Rockford University Athletics has had an outstanding year. With the introduction of flag football, two brand-new athletic fields, exciting seasons for many teams, and a winning Esports program, the future looks bright for the Regents!

“It has been an outstanding year for Regent Athletics,” said Jason Mulligan, Director of Athletics. “We started the school year with a special Hall of Fame class being inducted. Longtime softball head coach, player, and administrator Kristyn King and baseball standout, Tom Flood, entered the Charles M. DeWild Hall of Fame. This spring saw longtime head coach Bob Koopmann take over the top spot as the all-time winningest coach in baseball program history, [and] the biggest development of the year was the announcement and construction of Phase I of our new athletic complex.”

Flag Football

Rockford University is proud to be the first university in Illinois to have a women’s flag football program. 

“Since our founding in 1847 as Rockford Female Seminary, Rockford University has been at the forefront of advancing educational opportunities for women,” Rockford University President Patricia Lynott said. “Now we can build upon that tradition with the introduction of women’s flag football.”

Head coach Tim Trevier has been busy recruiting for the inaugural Spring 2025 season.

RU is proud to be a forerunner in the introduction of flag football to the collegiate level. 

New Fields

In late November of 2023, RU broke ground on two brand new baseball and softball fields thanks to a $3.58 million grant from Illinois’ Independent College Capital Investment Grant. 

These new fields will “bring Rockford University baseball and softball players back home to play on their own turf,” said Linda Sandquist, former VP of Advancement. 

Rockford Mayor Tom McNamara attended the press conference to show his support. “We couldn’t be more proud of Rockford University,” he said. “And this is just another reason for all of us to celebrate the tremendous traditions that have taken place here at the university.”

Exciting Seasons

“The fall season brought with it a first for our men’s soccer program,” said Mulligan. In a historic move, the team made their first-ever trip to the NACC Tournament. Their five NACC wins throughout the season were the most in program history. 

“Making it to the NACC tournament for the first time in school history was huge for the program,” said Quinn Vukovic, defensive player and RU Marketing major. “What coach Mike has done in the three years he’s been here has been nothing short of amazing. The guys and I all agree that it’s just the beginning and now the only thing we want to do is go further into the tournament.” 

“It’s hard to pick one moment,” Vukovic said when asked about a stand-out moment or game from the season. “The first one that comes to mind is when we beat CUC this year. After back-to-back close losses in previous years it was a great feeling to finally beat them and celebrate with the team. The guys worked hard all game and getting to share that moment with them was amazing.”

It was also a memorable season for both men’s and women’s basketball. Both teams qualified for the NACC Tournament; the women’s team played a great, down-to-the-wire game, and the men’s team advanced to play in the NACC final round. 

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This article is part of the 2023-2024 issue of Catalyst.

By Dr. Kelly Monson, Dr. Danielle Klein, & Dr. Beth Lipton

On May 14, 2024, sixteen students and three Rockford University faculty began a week-long transformational journey to serve a small rural community in the Dominican Republic.  Participants were immersed in the culture of the community through service and teaching.  

The team who led the students on this trip included Dr. Kelly Monson, Dr. Danielle Klein, and Dr. Beth Lipton, and had support on campus from Julie Griffith. Monsoon, Klein, and Lipton guided students through a cross-cultural experience that integrated their study abroad academic experience, combined with service.

Rockford University partnered with Kids Around the World, an outreach organization established in Rockford, to build a playground for a small community in the Dominican Republic.  This was the second Serve and Study Abroad trip for Rockford University in partnership with Kids Around the World, the first in 2022 serving in Ecuador.   

The team spent two rewarding and challenging days building a playground and one day teaching in a public school within the community.   

Student Daniella Torres Mandujano shared, “I am leaving feeling extremely grateful, grateful for the opportunity to have been able to go on such a remarkable trip. Grateful isn’t enough to express how it feels to have been able to be part of building a playground where children will be able to make lots of memories & be allowed to play, I hope to return and see the children playing, the impact it’s made on me is just as big as the impact it will be making on the children. The children there were the most welcoming and accepting, arriving at the school and feeling so loved and appreciated by the children made me so grateful to be there.”

Spanish is the primary language in the Dominican Republic and five of the Rockford University students were excited to act as translators throughout the trip. 

As student Naomi Cano Rodriguez shared, “To me the trip was astonishing. From seeing the kid’s faces light up to the parachute to having our final countdown as a team. Being able to speak Spanish was such an amazing possibility. I was able to make a deeper connection with the children and be able to help out the team by translating when it was needed. I was very excited to go out of the country for the first time because I knew that we were in good hands. As we landed and the days that we stayed I saw how the stories my mother used to tell me about how she lived when she was a child in Mexico and how the children’s lives were very similar.  

It brought tears to my eyes but I am beyond thankful to have built a playground in a location where all the children can enjoy and spend time with their families. This whole trip was very monumental because it made me realize all the stuff we take for granted that the families in the D.R. would love to have and it invokes change in me to be more appreciative for the stuff I have at home.  I am beyond thankful to the Kid Around the World team for all their effort in welcoming us and showing us the beauty that the Dominican Republic has to offer.”

The Rockford University students and faculty had the privilege of celebrating with the community and local government after the playground was complete. Students were appreciative of this opportunity.  

Student Savannah Turen shared, “Back home life is completely different. But not necessarily in a bad way. I will never forget the love the community gave us at the playground dedication. Back home playgrounds are so common they are often forgotten about. We forget to appreciate the simple things around us that not everyone has. This trip is a reminder to appreciate the little and simple things in life every day, not just sometimes.”

The majority of the students on this trip had never traveled out of the country and as future educators, the teaching opportunity had an impact on their future. 

Student Jennifer Pina shared, “I believe that there is truly no way to describe the impact of this trip besides actually living it. I have never flown out of the country, let alone be part of a project that would impact so many.  Being able to experience this trip allowed me to feel grateful for not only everything that I have back home but also the experience, culture, food, and community that we were surrounded by. 

As a future educator, I was grateful to work with children from a different population. As a person, I was grateful to work with and interact with people from a different Spanish-speaking culture who became like family. I am thankful for everyone who made this possible. I will forever remember this trip and can’t wait for the next one!”

Student Julissa Gutierrez shared that this was a life-changing experience.

“I am happy to say that going on this trip was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made,” Gutirrez said. “Not only do I feel that we really made a difference in the lives of many, but I also feel that I am going back home a different person in the best way possible. I met so many new people, listened to all kinds of stories, and learned about a beautiful culture. Not only that, but I learned that my life’s purpose goes way beyond what I thought before. I hope to continue living my life seeking the same joy, peace, and fulfillment that I felt throughout this whole adventure.”

This was an impactful experience for everyone on the trip. Students were asked to provide an impact word and story that encompassed their experience.  The impact terms included: Life-changing, Wondrous, Joyful, Eternal, Grateful, Unforgettable, Monumental, Love, Community, Appreciative, Grateful, Interesting, Grateful and Growth, Roles, Blissful, and Risk-taker.  

Rockford University hopes to partner with Kids Around the World to create a third Serve and Learn opportunity in the future.

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This article is part of the 2023-2024 issue of Catalyst.