Aurora University

Since the John C. Dunham STEM Partnership School opened on the Aurora University campus in 2014, its third- through eighth-grade students have consistently demonstrated outstanding growth in science skills. To strengthen undergraduate science offerings at AU in a similar way, Chetna Patel, professor of chemistry and chair of Physical Sciences, and her colleagues, including assistant professors of chemistry Ami Johanson and Kyle McElhoney, initiated a chemistry major using the same model: working with external partners to develop the curriculum. The classes, which kicked off in fall 2018, are part of a hands-on program that is better preparing AU students for careers in the chemical industry.

Aurora University is saddened to announce the death of John Curran. He was a valued member of the Theatre Department as an associate professor and technical director and also a great friend to the many students with whom he came in contact. He died Thursday, July 11, 2019.

Recent graduate and AU women’s basketball player Adriana Ramirez would never want to be called for traveling, but off the court, it’s a different story. She has been intrigued with travel since she was a child, so attending college 2,000 miles from her California home was almost to be expected.

Internships, choir tours, study abroad experiences, and mission trips — all adventures beyond the classroom — give students the opportunity to help others, think on their feet, meet remarkable people, and learn vital skills. All of which will help them in their careers. Political science and business administration double major Christine Emma-Ann Williams ’19, recently shared her experience participating in an exciting off-campus learning opportunity.

In an unprecedented accomplishment, Alexis Hodges ’21, Shea Demonteverde ’20, Kristy Britton ’19, and Kirsten Mueller ’19 were elected to the Student Nurses Association of Illinois board of directors.

Earning a college degree — whether undergraduate or graduate — is to be celebrated. Earning a new type of degree is truly special. For 32 Aurora University students, that moment of pride happened earlier this spring.

Jodi Moore and Erin Sester were thrilled to watch each other cross the Commencement stage at Aurora University. Moore graduated with a Doctor of Education degree. Sester had just earned a Master of Arts in Special Education. Nothing more special than a couple of AU buddies supporting each other, right? The occasion was, in fact, exceedingly special — because Moore is Sester’s mother.

Rita B. Garman, Illinois Supreme Court Justice, was awarded the degree of Doctor of Humane Letters from Aurora University during its spring Commencement ceremony. The degree was presented by Tom Cross, JD, Executive Director of the Institute for Collaboration at Aurora University, on behalf of the institution’s board of trustees.

Spring blossomed early for three AU students this year. Last month, they won a year of free tuition at AU’s Egg-stra Special 125th Birthday Party and Egg Hunt.