Elmhurst Voices: Sesquicentennial Stories

As a special way to mark our sesquicentennial celebration, we asked some of our students, faculty, staff and alumni to share their fondest Elmhurst memories, favorite campus stories and hopes for the future of the University.

Follow along throughout our sesquicentennial celebration (May 2021–May 2022) as we share these stories and take a few deep dives into Elmhurst’s history and institutional legacy.

Elmhurst University English Professor Ann Frank Wake

‘Our Students are Fantastic and Hardworking’

English department chair Ann Frank Wake strives to constantly improve the student experience.

John Baines, head men's basketball coach at Elmhurst University.

‘Now, We’ve Got a Nationally Recognized Program’

Men’s basketball coach John Baines continues to build on a winning tradition.

Elmhurst University alumna Cynthia "Cyn" Campbell '01 MBA '05

‘I Got the Support I Needed’

Elmhurst helped Cynthia “Cyn” Campbell ’01 MBA ’05 advance in the world of finance.

Roby Thomas, professor of supply chain management at Elmhurst University.

‘A Little Piece in All of This’

Supply Chain Management Program Director Roby Thomas has helped shaped the future for students and the University.

Photo of Chicago business reporter and Elmhurst University

‘Elmhurst Offered Everything and More’

While at Elmhurst, Len Walter ’62 laid the foundation for a legendary career in news media.

Elmhurst University graduate Amanda O'Brien

‘A Perfect Time to Reinvent’

After thriving at Elmhurst, Amanda O’Brien ’21 is heading abroad to teach in France.

Elmhurst University Associate Professor of Education Ayanna F. Brown, Ph.D.

‘Creating Students Who are Willing to Push’

Ayanna F. Brown, Ph.D., guides students on their growth journey.

Elmhurst University alumnus Allen Riquelme, wearing his graduation cap and gown.

‘You Can Make Friends for a Lifetime’

Elmhurst’s study abroad opportunities helped
Allen Riquelme ’16, MBA ’21 build his worldview.

Elmhurst University faculty member Alan Weiger, chair of the Department of Theatre and Dance, sits in the dressing room of Elmhurst's Mill Theatre.

‘This is the Place to Be’

Faculty stalwart Alan Weiger ’72 has witnessed Elmhurst’s momentous changes.

Elmhurst University student Norbaya Jameela Durr '22

‘A Beautiful Challenge’

Student and mentor Norbaya Jameela Durr ’22 has seen growth in a time of change.

Mark Wakely, Services Manager at Elmhurst University, in front of the Old Main building on campus.

‘I See a Bright Future’

Storyteller and campus history buff Mark Wakely ’87 reflects on 40-plus years at Elmhurst.

Colleen Munro-Leighton is a chemistry professor at Elmhurst University.

‘So Many Ways to Grow’

Faculty member Colleen Munro-Leighton helps students become whole people.