North Park University New Varsity Esports Team Complements Diverse Student Population
Looking to work alongside an already booming gaming industry located in Chicago, North Park is excited to add Esports as the institution’s first coed and 19th overall sport. Recruiting for incoming student-athletes will begin immediately, with competition to start fall of 2023.
North Park Theological Seminary Awards Master’s Degree to Stateville Correctional Center Resident Scholars
North Park University School of Restorative Arts held a graduation ceremony at Stateville Correctional Center for 28 resident scholars in honor of earning their Master of Arts in Christian Ministry from North Park Theological Seminary.
North Park Sends Students Overseas through Scholarships and Grants
When the COVID-19 pandemic spread throughout the world in March 2020, and North Park students were called home from studying abroad in semester-long programs throughout Greece, UK, Argentina, and the UAE, North Park’s Office of International Affairs redirected its compass towards creating opportunities for students to apply for study abroad scholarships.
North Park University New Supply Chain Management Major Meets National In-Demand Skills
North Park is now offering a Bachelor of Arts in Supply Chain Management (SCM) with a curriculum focused on solving real operational and logistics challenges impacting the global supply chain.
North Park’s Dr. Gwendolyn Purifoye Serves on Advisory Committee to Address Gender-based Violence and Human Trafficking
Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot and City Clerk Anna Valencia announced a partnership with UN Women’s Global Flagship Program, Safe Cities and Safe Public Spaces. “My research expertise will hopefully be a valuable resource for a city and worldwide initiative to improve public space safety, security, and general experiences for women and girls,” said Dr. Purifoye.
North Park Welcomes Julie Fregetto as Director of Advancement Services
As its next Director of Advancement Services Julie Fregetto will be responsible for leading strategy, operations, and database management for the Office of Advancement.
North Park University Pioneering Nurse Bequeaths $2.4 million Estate
The unassuming “millionaire next door” who eventually earned her PhD, Wilma Peterson bequeathed almost her entire estate of more than $2.4 million to North Park, marking a significant gift to the university.
Crain’s Chicago Business Publishes Article on North Park’s Dr. Gwendolyn Purifoye’s Research on Race-based Transit Disparities
Dr. Gwendolyn Purifoye expertise on transit ridership quoted in article on how public transportation can offer upward mobility, but the current configuration also serves as a buffer and keeps people trapped.
North Park University and Art Institute of Chicago Partner on Free Admission for Undergraduates
North Park Art and Education student facilitates access to free admission for fellow undergraduates in a University Partner Program which also includes an invitation to AIC’s Jobs at Art Museums Fair.
North Park’s New Online Textbooks and Content Platform Boosts Affordability
North Park launched a new initiative that will enable thousands of its college students to access textbooks and course materials at a lower price through the selected course content platform Akademos.
North Park Music Education Alum Trevor Nicholas Named as Finalist for 2022 Music Educator GRAMMY
CBS 2 Chicago covers story on North Park’s alum Nicholas, who is also a music teacher at Senn High School.
North Park University Hosts Annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration
Children’s rights advocate and poet Yorri Berry to keynote virtual celebration on January 19, 2022.
Rev. Dr. David Kersten Retiring from a Life of Significance Story Appears in Covenant Companion
Kersten talks about his decision to retire as vice president of church relations and dean of North Park Theological Seminary, effective August 1, 2022.
North Park Theological Seminary Receives Support From $1M Lilly Endowment Grant
North Park has been awarded a $1M grant from Lilly Endowment Inc. to support North Park Theological Seminary in establishing the One Thriving Seminary initiative.
North Park University Champions Affordability with New Scholarships
In order to improve equity in access to a high-quality college education North Park has announced a new scholarship package.
North Park University and College of Lake County Partner on Transfer Student Guaranteed Admission
A partnership between North Park and College of Lake County (CLC), invites transfer students to complete their bachelor’s degree at North Park.
North Park University Awarded NSF-HSI Grant
The National Science Foundation (NSF) has awarded North Park University a $413,066 grant to support student success in Science, Technology, Engineering and Math majors (STEM), with a focus on the university’s diverse student population.
North Park University Welcomes Largest First-Year Class in 130-Year History
Students seeking an education prioritizing diversity, inclusivity, join North Park’s largest incoming first-year class.
New Pell Grants Support Higher Education In Prison
Dr. Michelle Clifton-Soderstrom shares the impact that additional funding would have on North Park’s prison education programming in PBS News Hour coverage.
North Park Students Share Vital Campus Resources in U.S. News & World Report Article
For First-year college students, U.S. News & World Report suggests researching campus resources now for a strong start academically.
North Park University Prioritizes Diversity, Equity, Inclusion Across Campus
North Park – a recently designated Hispanic Serving Institution – has the third most ethnically diverse student population in the Midwest, according to U.S. News & World Report, and the 48th most diverse in the nation according to the Wall Street Journal.
North Park Selects Michael S. Carr, Ph.D. as New Provost
Dr. Carr joins the Senior Leadership Team, partnering with and reporting directly to North Park President Mary K. Surridge, beginning July 1, 2021. As chief academic officer, the Provost provides leadership for the development and implementation of all academic planning and policy.
Washington Post Features North Park’s Prison Education Program
Dean of Faculty and Professor of Theology & Ethics and Director of School of Restorative Arts, Dr. Michelle Clifton-Soderstrom talks about how North Park’s prison education programming has continued throughout the pandemic.
North Park University Holds In-Person Outdoor Diploma Ceremony and Virtual Commencement
The May 8th outdoor diploma ceremony held on the field of the Holmgren Athletic Complex, conferred 447 degrees upon 445 graduates, with 293 of those undergraduate and 154 graduated degrees. The diploma presentation ceremony was recorded and incorporated into a virtual program on May 15th.
Covenant Companion Features New Seminary Faculty
North Park Theological Seminary announces two new members will join its faculty this fall: Dr. Jules Martínez-Olivieri and Rev. Michelle Dodson.
North Park University Announces Campus to Fully Open Fall 2021
North Park is pleased to reopen its vibrant Chicago campus starting Fall 2021, with in-person classes and services, residential living, and a comprehensive range of intercollegiate athletics and student activities.
North Park University Extends Test Optional Policy into Fall 2022
The decision for North Park to go test optional for Fall 2022 was approved by North Park University President Mary K. Surridge to accommodate all students.
North Park University Adds Extra Layer of COVID-19 Risk Mitigation Protocols
North Park has partnered with SHIELD Illinois to implement a robust COVID-19 surveillance testing program to test approximately 10-20% of faculty, staff, and students.
North Park University Hosts Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration Featuring Activist Mikki Kendall
Live virtual celebrations reflect on the impact of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s work and life.
North Park University and UIC Partner on Athletic Training Program Admissions
North Park and UIC co-developed a partnership agreement for selected UIC graduates to gain admission into North Park’s Master of Science in Athletic Training (MSAT) program.
North Park University COVID-19 Risk Mitigation Protocols Sustained Fall 2020 Open Campus
North Park concluded its Fall 2020 semester to first-year, returning and transfer students. With the campuscommunity’s health, safety and successful educational progress leading every decision, a sense of gratitude permeated the campus.
North Park University Ranked Top 10 in Illinois by WalletHub
Ranked 147th out of 1,000 and 84th percentile for best universities, the 2021 College Rankings for Best Colleges and Universities also measured: student selectivity, cost and financing, faculty resources, campus safety, campus experience, education outcomes, and career outcomes.
North Park University Appoints Dr. Cynthia Hudson as New Dean of Nursing and Health Sciences
North Park appoints Dr. Cynthia Hudson as its Dean of the School of Nursing and Health Sciences. Bringing exemplary achievements in scholarship and service, Dr. Hudson succeeds Dr. Linda Duncan’s over four decades of service.
North Park University Rankings Jump in 2021 U.S. News & World Report
North Park’s Midwest Regional Rankings Climb 22 Spots. In the sum of its three distinct attributes – Christian, city-centered, and thoroughly intercultural – North Park finds its unique value, its competitive advantage, and its opportunity to continue this upward trajectory and emerge as the model for Christian higher education in 21st Century America.
North Park University: A Successful Start to the Fall 2020 Semester
Students, faculty and staff gratefully follow COVID-19 wellness protocols, as North Park welcomed its Fall 2020 class of first-year, returning, and transfer students to its Chicago campus.
North Park University Goes Test Optional in Response to Pandemic
North Park ensures equitable access to higher education for 2020-2021 applicants and continues to review its applicants on a holistic basis—grade point average, rigor of high school curriculum, perseverance, extra-curricular activities, and standardized test scores all are considered towards meeting admission criteria.
North Park Student DACA Recipient Julian Villagrana Expresses Relief in Supreme Court Ruling
Julian Villagrana, studying at North Park to become a math teacher, says the Supreme Court’s ruling is a major relief to him, fellow DACA recipients, and their families.
17 DREAMers Awarded Scholarships at North Park University
North Park has awarded scholarships to a cohort of 17 students recognized by the nation’s largest college scholarship program for DREAMers—undocumented students/persons brought to the United States as children.
Photo of Future North Parker Alhaji Jalloh Hangs in National Portrait Gallery in Washington, D.C.
Documentary photographer Sandra Steinbrecher captured three CPS seniors and their nascent activism in all its glory in photo hanging in the National Portrait Gallery, but coronavirus kept them from a trip to see it.
North Park University Named a College of Distinction in 20-Year Anniversary Cohort
North Park has been recognized for its honorable commitment to engaged, experiential education by Colleges of Distinction, which is celebrating its 20-year anniversary as a one-of-a-kind guide for college-bound students.
North Park University School of Nursing Lives out Mission Caring for Medically Complex Underserved and Mainstream Populations
Collaborative, skillful, passionate, ethical, knowledgeable—North Park University School of Nursing and Health Science embodies this mission as alumni and faculty serve the community and COVID-19 front lines.
David Kersten, North Park’s Dean of the Seminary, Appears in Chicago Tribune on How COVID-19 Affects Ordination Wait Time during COVID-19
“In the Evangelical Covenant Church, graduating seminary students wait two years before they are ordained,” said Kersten.
North Park University Graduates Offer Skills to Reduce Shortages in Healthcare
Representing future scientists and healthcare practitioners, students adapt to a rapidly changing COVID-19 world by learning directly from experts working in the frontlines.
North Park University Embraces Faith, Emotional Well-being during COVID-19
Paul’s letter to the Romans encourages prayer, patience, and hope. North Park’s President, Mary K. Surridge, reminds students, faculty, and staff to care for the entire self—mind, body, and soul.
North Park University: 4 Immediate Financial Actions for Small Businesses During COVID-19
Dr. Ann Ownby Hicks, North Park’s Dean of School of Business and Nonprofit Management (SBNM) and Professor of Accounting, says small businesses can take immediate action to saddle shoe-string budgets with doing social good.
Second Chance Month Launched as National Effort to Reduce Barriers Keeping Formerly Incarcerated Americans from Reaching their Full Potential
The Council for Christian Colleges & Universities (CCCU) and Prison Fellowship includes North Park University’s Master of Arts Degree in Christian Ministry at Stateville Correctional Center as part of coalition for prison education leaders at CCCU institutions.
Hispanic Serving Institution Designation Given to North Park by Federal Government
North Park University has been named a Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI) by the U.S. Department of Education, a designation that recognizes North Park’s commitment to equitable outcomes for Hispanic students.
North Park University Trains Students to be Future Ministry Leaders
As part of a new Christian Ministries Studies (CMS) major being offered at North Park University, students develop their spiritual formation and a comprehensive ministry skill set in classes taught by practitioners working in their field of expertise.
North Park Recognized Nationally for Its Top MBA Program
Abound: MBA, a college search and guidance resource for MBA-seeking professionals, has honored North Park as a prime institution for professionals. Inclusion in the system signifies North Park’s commitment to providing even the busiest of adults efficient, engaged, and valuable career-building experience.
USA Today Features North Park Hispanic Student
The success rates look more encouraging at a nearby private college, North Park University, which is less than a 10-minute walk away from Northeastern Illinois. Visitors to the campus on the north side will first see an ornate, black metallic gate, leafy trees and rolling green lawns.
Longtime Professor Michelle Clifton-Soderstrom named Interim Dean of North Park Seminary
A Seminary alum, Professor of Theology and Ethics, and Director of the School of Restorative Arts, Rev. Clifton-Soderstrom brings 15 years of teaching and leadership experience while spearheading innovative programs both on- and off- campus.
My Morning of Peace at Stateville Correctional Center
John Mjoseth from the Peace Exchange visits the North Park students at Stateville to learn how they are practicing peace and resolving conflict.
The North Park Distinctive: An Interview with President Mary K. Surridge
Covenant Companion magazine features President Surridge’s respect for faculty and shared governance in securing the university’s bright future.
National Science Foundation Awards North Park with $650,000 Grant
As part of the grant, North Park will select 20 first-year students, each of whom will receive a $5,000 annual scholarship for four years.
Associated Colleges of Illinois Features President Surridge
President Surridge shares the University’s vision on preparing a diverse student body with innovative programs.
North Park Gospel Choir on Tour
North Park Gospel Choir comes to Galesburg March 22.
As ‘Silent Night’ turns 200, its Austrian home cracks down on immigrants
The Chicago Tribune features commentary by Gregor Thuswaldner, dean of the College of Arts and Sciences at North Park.
CRUX: A Little Discomfort Goes a Long Way
Covenant Companion features North Park’s student discipleship community.
40 Students Enroll in New NPTS Program at Stateville Correctional Center
Covenant Companion reports on the opening of the first full degree program through North Park Theological Seminary’s School of Restorative Arts.
A Tale of Two Cities: North Park University Provost Michael O. Emerson Co-authors Book About Urban Development
Emerson’s new book, Market Cities, People Cities: The Shape of our Urban Future, explores differences in how Houston and Copenhagen treat their residents (and what it means for the rest of us.)
Summer Science Academy at North Park University
High School students gain college-level skills and learn to love science in hands-on classes.
The Chicago Audubon Society’s Birding America Conference Held at North Park University
The Chicago Sun-Times features Birding Conference held at North Park amongst other signs of spring.
North Park University Alumnus Alvaro Gago Wins a Grand Jury Prize at Sundance Film Festival
Chicago Sun-Times celebrates the growing influence of the Chicago film community at Sundance Film Festival.
Meet RaD Lab Artist Nnenna Okore
North Park professor and artist Nnenna Okore shares her creative process and passion for the environment at a public interactive presentation.
Engaging Chicago
PUPN Magazine shares Dean Thuswaldener’s insights into experiential learning and North Park’s new curriculum.
Lilly Endowment for Congregational Ministry
Lilly Endowment Inc. has launched a national initiative to help clergy working in congregations thrive in their roles as pastoral leaders.
Men’s Soccer to Play in First-Ever Final Four
North Park University is preparing for its first-ever Final Four appearance in the men’s NCAA Division III soccer tournament this weekend in Greensboro, North Carolina.
North Park University’s Men’s Soccer Heads to First-ever NCAA Final Four
Following a record-breaking 20-1-1 season, North Park University’s Men’s Soccer Team will make its first-ever appearance in the NCAA Division III Final Four tournament in Greensboro, North Carolina, Dec. 1.
North Park to Host Former Presidential Authority on “Religious Freedom in the Culture Wars,”
Two leading religious scholars explore how Christian identity is shaped by the current culture in a North Park University-sponsored forum.
Giving Students Real-world Experiences Means Putting Community Into Curriculum
Education DIVE interviews North Park University’s Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, Gregor Thuswaldner, regarding the University’s innovative curriculum.
Recovered Plaque Honoring North Park University Vets to Be Dedicated on 70th Anniversary of WWII’s End
WFLX Fox 29-TV shares the news of North Park’s rededication of WWII plaque on campus.
How This Chicago Organization Is Using Sports To Empower Young Girls
Lucy Mucino, a North Park student, is working with Girls in the Game. Girls in the Game is improving the lives of those who might otherwise get left behind.
Bach Week Festival and North Park University’s School of Music, Art, and Theatre Partner for 2017 Festival
The Chicago area’s 44th annual Bach Week Festival, opening April 28 in Evanston, Ill., will feature festival debuts of local and visiting artists of international stature in concerts devoted to the music of the festival’s namesake, German Baroque composer J. S. Bach.
North Park University Helps to Fill Digital Marketing Talent Shortage by Offering New Degree
Undergraduate students prepare to launch careers with covetable skills
North Park Faculty: Standing With the Vulnerable
Inside Higher Ed calls attention to a letter—Confessing Faculty—circulated among Christian college professors who pledged support for marginalized people. The letter was inspired by the North Park Theological Seminary Post-election Statement.
Changing Chicago Community Through Music
Tom Zelle, professor of music, interviewed by NBC local news about the SHIFT/Englewood orchestra program.
God’s Glory, Neighbor’s Good: Revisiting the Pietist Vision for Christian Higher Education
Professor John Laukaitis facilitated a conversation with historian Chris Gehrz about the Pietist vision for Christian higher education.
Vikings Earn Share of CCIW Title
North Park Vikings can finally call themselves CCIW Men’s Basketball Champions.
North Park Theological Seminary Post-election Statement
Faculty and staff offer statement in response to current national climate.
Innovative Scholars Loan Program to Benefit Seminarians
A new Covenant Scholars pilot program will provide 0 percent interest loans to 10 North Park Theological Seminary MDiv students a year over the next three years to cover tuition costs, it was announced at the Midwinter Conference.
‘Hate has no home here’ campaign, started in North Park, goes viral
North Parker Steven Luce designed the “Hate has no home here” poster, and neighbors quickly printed and posted them — in North Park, Albany Park, West Ridge, Rogers Park. Now, they can’t keep up with requests for the posters.
Interview — Balodimas-Bartolomei: Researching the Greek Communities of the World
Dr. Angelyn Balodimas-Bartolomei, coordinator of the ESL and Master of Arts in Literacy, Language, and Culture programs at North Park University is interviewed on her forthcoming book, Greek Communities of the World. The book focuses on the demography and history of the people while also providing information on their religious, community and cultural lives.
Video — Liberal Arts Colleges & Universities: A Hidden Resource for Chicago and Illinois
David L. Parkyn, president of North Park University, spoke at the City Club of Chicago along with Donna M. Carroll, president of Dominican University. Dr. Parkyn discussed aspects and outcomes of a liberal arts education at North Park University and similar institutions.
Akvavit Theatre Announces New Artistic Leadership; Associate Company Members
North Park University alumnae, Kirstin Franklin, now serves as the company’s new co-artistic director. Joe Giovannetti, another alumnus, was also added as a new associate company member.
Letters from Stateville
In 2015 North Park Theological Seminary began offering theology courses at Stateville Correctional Center outside Chicago. The letters that follow are from incarcerated students and their professor on their transformative experiences of faith.
As Obamas exit center stage, they get to work shaping legacy
Dr. Wesley Lindahl, dean of North Park University’s School of Business and Nonprofit Management, comments on the Obama Foundation fundraising campaign. Dr. Lindahl is an expert in nonprofit fundraising.
Video — Bobby Flay and Hoda Kotb cook up a surprise for this Salvation Army volunteer
Merrill Powers, a graduate of North Park’s masters in business administration and nonprofit administration programs, was surprised by TODAY show and Bobby Flay. In an edition of “Hoda’s Bucket List Granted,” TODAY’s Hoda Kotb had a heartwarming surprise for Merrill Powers, head of a Salvation Army center in Chicago.
Rhodes School hires new assistant principal
Cindy Salas, graduate of North Park University’s master of arts in educational leadership program, has been hired as the west suburban school’s new assistant principal. Rhodes is an elementary school in River Grove, and Salas hopes to use her bilingual skills and Hispanic heritage to help connect with the community.
Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church America’s Churches: Often a reflection of the nation’s racial divide
Dr. Michael Emerson, North Park University provost and author of Divided by Faith: Evangelical Religion and the Problem of Race in America, is interviewed by Reuters for their story in the wake of the Charleston, South Carolina massacre.
Let’s Talk with Mark Elfstrand—Christians and Ramadan
On Friday, June 19, Dr. Boaz Johnson, professor of biblical and theological studies at North Park, sat down with the radio host to discuss what Christians can learn from Ramadan. Tune in to the 38:00 minute mark to hear from Dr. Johnson.
Ancient Faith Commentaries—Boring Work: Good for the Soul
Following his article in Christianity Today (see below), Dr. Brad Nassif, professor of biblical and theological studies at North Park, discussed the topic in depth in an Ancient Faith Commentaries podcast.
A Chemistry Department’s Epic Transformation
Caliper magazine explores the Nancy and G. Timothy Johnson Center’s use of LabQuest 2 and the Connected Science System in its laboratories.
Boring Work: Good for the Soul
Dr. Brad Nassif, professor of biblical and theological studies, writes in the April issue of Christianity Today that “No matter how monotonous, unseen, or ordinary, our jobs can powerfully transform us into Christlikeness.”
2015 March Madness by the Numbers
Professor John Born, assistant professor of sports management, was recently interviewed by WalletHub and gave his thoughts on March Madness and the issues surrounding compensation for student athletes.
Science Center at North Park University Earns LEED Gold
Green Building News shares the news of the Nancy and G. Timothy Johnson Center for Science and Community Life achieving LEED Gold Status.