












Dedicated to Supporting Students at Rockford University




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Dedicated to Supporting Students at Rockford University




In the Fall 2025 semester, the Regents P.A.W.S. (Prepare, Adapt, Win, Succeed) program launched with its inaugural cohort. The program is designed to provide student athletes with wrap-around support to increase retention and graduation rates. As they transition to Rockford University, SSP provides support to Regent P.A.W.S. participants with a dedicated Student Support Coach, access to a Peer Assisted Student Support (PASS) team, and student-athlete leaders in SSP. This year program participants were primarily from the Regents Football and Flag Football teams. While the inaugural cohort was mostly comprised of two of our athletic teams, our goal is to include additional sports which will allow us to provide a more robust experience for participants. This is a phenomenal opportunity for student athletes to develop and experience academic success, develop leadership abilities, and strengthen their understanding and daily routines to ensure college completion.



















The Men of Confidence Mentorship (MCM) program welcomed in another Cohort at Rockford University, supporting 10 first year males as they transition from high school to college! Each year, the MCM program follows a theme, the 2025-26 MCM program theme was 'Building a Confident Community' to build on last years theme of 'Stepping out of the Comfort Zone.' Students participated in weekly study sessions, success workshops that enhanced college success skills, a financial literacy seminar, and meaningful discussions on becoming

Throughout the academic year, MCM had the privilege of hosting guest speakers to speak at six engaging “Chop It Up” sessions. The MCM Mentors kicked off the series sharing their unique journeys through college and showcasing their own paths to success. The mentors were followed by Motivational Coach Antwon Harris who shared the power of overcoming adversity and how it helps develop leadership. To end the fall semester, Maria Diemer, Director of the Office of Global Affairs, explained the benefits of obtaining a passport and the life-changing effects of studying abroad.
The spring semester started with Rockford Promise Scholar Support Coordinator and MCM alum, Jesse Campos ‘22 who led a discussion on how to achieve success through adversity. In March, Edgar Lopez, an Engagement Specialist at UPS, taught mentees the importance of staying true to your values and daring to live. MCM concluded the 2025-26 ‘Chop It Up’ Series with Freeport Police Officer Miguel Delvalle ‘23 wh insight on his post-graduation success and how MCM participants can do the same.











MCM participants attended three success workshops each semester hosted by Student Support Programming. These workshops focused on time management, taking care of your mental health, final exam study tips, note taking strategies, maintaining a growth & grit mindset, and financial literacy.
A Professionalism seminar hosted by Student Support Programming, Career Development, and JACCE brought Regents First and MCM together for this annual event. Held at the Nicholas Conservatory and Gardens, this event helped prepare MCM participants for career success by focusing on professional skills to achieve their goals. The MCM participants learned how to create an effective resume, leave a lasting impression on potential employers, and communicate with confidence in professional environments. Lastly, participants had the opportunity to walk through and enjoy the beautiful gardens at the conservatory.
During the Spring 2026 semester, MCM extended their study sessions by 30 minutes and implemented participant-led presentations on topics realted to leadership. These presentations were introduced to build the confidence and communication skills of the presenter while also providing a meaningful discussion about leadership amongst participants.








The second season of the MCM Podcast series, Empowering Voices: Breaking Barriers with MCM, continued on the 25-26 MCM theme of developing confident leaders. MCM participants interviewed guest community leaders and asked questions that explored their guests' individual leadership journeys with the goal of further developing their own communication skills. There were several leaders interviewed, including Motivational Coach Antwon Harris, Rockford University Head Football Coach Calvin Toliver, Rockford IceHogs Vice President of Marketing Mike Peck, and State Representative Maurice West. The podcast series has become a favored experience among participants, with MCM mentees looking forward to participating in future seasons of the podcast!
MCM Hosts: Whitney Harris III
Guest: Motivational Coach Antwon Harris
Release Date: 12-19-2025
MCM Hosts: Derrick Hozey
Guest: RU Head Football Coach Calvin Toliver
Release Date: 2-27-2026
MCM Hosts: Klownui Pler
Guest: Rockford IceHogs V.P. of Marketing Mike Peck
Release Date: 3-30-2026
MCM Hosts: Leonel Bautista
Guest: State Representative Maurice West
Release Date: 4-24-2026

Student Support Programming

Whitney Harris III
Junior
Major: Criminal Justice

Curtis Hosea Fall ‘25
BS Computer Science

Derrick Hozey
Junior
Major: Criminal Justice


Djimon Jefferson Spring ‘26
BS Kinesiology

Claude Williams Spring ‘26
BS Kinesiology
Renee Martinez Fall ‘25
BS Kinesiology

BS Kinesiology





During the 25–26 academic year, Regents First welcomed its fifth cohort, obtaining 31 students. Participants attended either a summer or fall retreat, where they had the opportunity to connect with fellow students and peer mentors while learning about campus resources. Throughout the retreat, students were introduced to important tools and opportunities that support their success. They received guidance on applying for campusfriendly jobs, learned effective time-management strategies to balance their responsibilities, and began to see themselves as confident college students. The retreats have become a memorable part of Regents First, providing a welcoming and supportive environment during what can often feel like an overwhelming transition. After the retreat, many students reflect that they feel more prepared, supported, and confident as they begin their college journey.












“When I first got to RU, I felt nervous about managing the workload and meeting new people. Regents First has helped push me out of my comfort zone by connecting with new people, guiding me to new internship opportunities, and developing academic skills through the different workshops and seminars. Regents First really helped me improve my time management skills which has helped me be better prepared for classes.”


During the fall semester, Regents First hosted our annual Leadership Seminar featuring President Lynott. This event gave participants the opportunity to learn from and ask questions directly to Rockford University’s leader. Later in the semester, Regents First and MCM partnered with MembersAlliance Credit Union to host a Financial Literacy Seminar, where students learned about the importance of building strong credit and making smart financial decisions. We concluded the seminar with a group dinner at Lino’s restaurant!





Additionally, Regents First hosted the spring semester Leadership Seminar featuring a panel of inspiring first-generation graduates: Mary Ann Laudicina of Baird Financial, Edgar Lopez of UPS, and Janai Crumbley from Kelly & Bracey Law Offices. The semester concluded with the Regents First and MCM Professionalism Seminar facilitated by Career Development and JACCE at Rockford’s beautiful Nicholas Conservatory. During this seminar, students received valuable guidance on building strong resumes and developing career readiness skills through volunteerism.












Eight Regents First participants had the opportunity to be paired with a professional mentor from the Rockford Network of Professional Women (RNPW). Each participant was paired in September, allowing them to build meaningful relationships throughout the academic year. As part of the mentorship experience, students attended monthly luncheons hosted on campus and participated in cultural excursions at Hidden Creek Estate and Prairie Street Brewing Company. Through these experiences, participants were able to strengthen their professional networks while gaining valuable advice and guidance on navigating the professional world.

"In my short time with the RNPW, I was taken aback with how inspiring the members can be. Having the opportunity to connect with so many incredible women has been both an honor and a powerful motivation to continue pursuing my education."
~Rubi Cordova Summer‘25 Cohort

This year 3 of our Regents First participants were able to join with Braven X, for a 14-week virtual fellowship where college students gain the skills, confidence, networks, and experiences needed to launch a strong career. BravenX works with higher education and employer partners to offer a life-changing experience that begins with a semester-long fellowship. Support will last through graduation and prepare participants for a strong career launch.
“BravenX has provided me with the structure and support to actively work toward my career goals with confidence.”
-Victor Omari
Fall‘24 Cohort

“I would recommend this program because it aims to prepare you to enter the work force. All the assignments are meant to help you, whether that is learning how to write a cover letter or learning how to tell your story. These tools can be accessed even after completing the course, and it isn't a strain to commit 4 to 5 hours a week to help yourself become a professional. The experience was invaluable, and I believe that it is important to recognize that not everyone has the opportunity to receive help on career development. My advice would be to go for it.

~Jocelyn Solis
Fall‘22 Cohort


Leonel Bautista
Sophomore
Major: Spanish and Education


Arwen Guzman-Servin
Senior
Major: Elementary Education

Saidi Ishmail
Junior
Major: Accounting

Ny’kia McFadden
Sophomore
Major: Social Work

Dylan Nunez
Junior
Major: Marketing

Dayanara Sandoval
Sophomore
Major: Social Work

















Twelve of our Regents First participants will attend a two-week study abroad trip to either Ireland, England, Costa Rica, Rome, or Utah there adventures will begin after the Spring semester.














From March 7 to March 14, four of our Regents First participants went on the Alternative Spring Break trip to Starkville, MS. This is an amazing opportunity offered every year where students get to volunteer with Habitat for Humanity to help build homes to increase affordable housing options.








Regents First participant Jocelyn Solis was awarded the 2025 Illinois John Lewis Youth Leadership Award. Jocelyn was a part of the second cohort for Regents First and also has served as a Peer Assisted Student Support (PASS) worker for the past 3 years. She has not only excelled in her coursework, studying psychology and human development, but outside of the classroom as well. Off campus, Jocelyn works with the Community Foundation of Northern Illinois, leading their “In Youth We Trust” philanthropy program.
The John Lewis Youth Leadership Award honors “the late Congressman John Lewis, his impact and extraordinary accomplishments throughout his career. The award celebrates the efforts of young Illinoisians between the ages of 18 and 25 who, like Lewis, have made exceptional civic contributions to their communities.” Learn more at ilsos.gov










Phi Beta Kappa
Good Citizenship
Harriet Rheingold Outstanding Major in Psychology
Mya Barrett: RF First Peer Mentor, REGGIE, First Gen Forward Club President, BSU Secretary, Leading Ed, Study Abroad Tri-Alpha
Jenesis Burris: CAB, BSU President, Burpee Front Desk
Camila Contreras: Commuter CouncilTri-Alpha, Leading Ed, First Gen Forward
Kelcey Dodd: Resident Assistant, Leading Ed, Study Abroad, Tri-Alpha
Nicole Facer: Leading Ed, Inspiring Leader, First Gen Forawrd, Study Abroad
Arwen Guzman-Servin: RF Peer Mentor, Leading Ed, Study Abroad, REGGIE, Hispanic Cultural Club Vice President, TriAlpha
Jacob Johnson: Multi Cultural Club
Yael Maya: REGGIE, Leading Ed, Study Abroad
Kiarra Myrick: Peer Tutor, Peer Assisted Student Support, PAC
Jocelyn Solis: Peer Tutor, Peer Assisted Student Support, Book Club, Jane Addams Fellow, PAC, Tri-Alpha, First Gen Forward
Scarlet Torrisi: Peer Tutor, PAC


Norma Campos: First Gen Forward Club

Jayda Delvalle: Regents Singers, Clark Arts Archivist
Jacob Harker: REGGIE, Leading Ed
Richard Hart: Art Gallery Attendant, Art Club President, Leading Ed, SAGA
Hae Htoo: Tri-Alpha, Soccer
Saidi Ishmail: RF Peer Mentor, MCM, Seaver Front Desk, President FGF, Founder Toastmasters, SGA Treasurer, Tri-Alpha
Amahirany Lopez: Leading Ed
Veronica McLean: Leading Ed, Tri-Alpha Secretary, Alternative Spring Break
Jamera Morris: Library Attendant, Leading Ed, Tri-Alpha
Dylan Nunez: Commuter Council, Vice President of First Gen Forward Club, Circulation Desk Assistant at Howard Colman Library, RF Peer Mentor, Study Abroad, Alternative Spring Break, Tri-Alpha
Bodee Redieske: Tri-Alpha
Lezly Rivera: CAB, Women’s Soccer, Burpee Front Desk, Alternative Spring Break, Rockford Network for Professional Women
Yareli Salazar-Carillo: Leading Ed
Hannah Smith: Leading Ed, PASS
Daniela Torres: First Gen Forward Club, ASL Club, RF Peer Mentor, Leading Ed, Study Abroad PASS, Toastmasters
Alexandra Toro: Leading Ed
Daelyn Villanueva: Leading Ed, Tri-Alpha



Leonel Bautista: RF Peer Mentor 26-27, REGGIE, MCM, Toastmasters, Treasurer Multicultural Club, Leading Ed, Hispanic Cultural Club, Study Abroad, Tri-Alpha, First Gen Forward
Abby Cannon: Leading Ed, Library Attendant, Alternative Spring Break
Kenia Castaneda Benavides: Interested in NSO
Reyli Castillo: ESports, Toastmasters, Art Club
Da’mon Dantzler: Burpee Attendant, Co President Black Student Union, MCM, Basketball, SGA Freshman Senator
JoJo Dixon: Volleyball, SAAC, Black Student Union
Josh Golden: Football, Regent P.A.W.S
Hailee Goodall: Softball, Leading Ed
Maddyson Halpin: Burpee Attendant, Computer Lab Attendant, SAGA, Leading Ed, Madison King: Rockford Network for Professional Women
Tabu Kiza: Library Attendant, Interested in NSO, TriAlpha RYCE
Lucie Mapendano: Women’s Soccer, Flag Football, Alpha Helix, Library Attendant
Rose Mary: Multicultural Club, Tri-Alpha, Toastmasters
Ny’kia McFadden: RF Peer Mentor 26-27, Secretary Black Student Union, Secretary First Gen Forward, Library Attendant, Leading Ed
Victor Omari: REGGIE, MCM Podcast, Toastmasters, FCA
Kandy Pompa-Vazquez: Interested in NSO
Samantha Ramirez: Commuter Council, Leading Ed, Hispanic Cultural Club
Jalyn Rhodes: REGGIE, Rockford Network for Professional Woman, Alpha Helix Leadership Role, Women’s Volleyball
Dayanara Sandoval: RF Peer Mentor, Commuter Council, Treasurer Hispanic Cultural Club
Emma Valenzuela: Career Connection Student Worker, RYCE
Hlu Yaw: Multicultural Club
Kassandra Aguilar: Interested in Library and Computer Lab
Attendant, PASS
Alex Aldama: Spirit Shop Attendant, PsychEd
Jasmin Ceniceros: Commuter Council, PASS, Hispanic Cultural Club, PsychEd
Malaika Chambers: Flag Football
Rubi Cordova: Art Club, RU Fit, Rockford Network for Professional Women
Raevyn Craig: Royal Regents Choreographer, BSU
Jadeamarie Crawford: Interested in NSO
Andi Elder: Interested in Esports
Keyon Floyd: Football, MCM, RYCE, Black Student Union
Darlena Flores: Tri-Alpha, Women’s Soccer, Interested in NSO
Aurelio Huerta: RU Fit President
Mu Lar Hser Htoo: Interested in Soccer
Amanda Horton: Royal Regents
Antoine Jackson: Freshman Senator, Burpee Front Desk
Attendant, RU Fit, MCM, ASL, SGA Secretary 26-27, Black Student Union
Jourdain Jimenez: Soccer, Hispanic Cultural Club, PASS
Zoe Lopez: V.P. Regents Players, Regents Singers, Art Club
Emil Luchesse: OGA Intern
Audriana Mahlum: Writing Center, Regents Singer, Royal Regents, Regents First Peer Mentor 26-27
Juana Marquez: Co-President RU Hearts, Secretary Multicultural Club, Treasurer Art Club, President Hispanic Cultural Club 26-27
Lorelei Monk: Softball, Hispanic Cultural Club, RU Fit
Carter Moore: Volleyball, SGA, Public Affairs Officer, Leadership Council, MCM, First Gen Forward, Burpee Front Desk Attendant, Black Student Union
Marisol Munoz-Mora: Hispanic Cultural Club, PASS
EllaRay Nelson: Fresh Ideas, Treasurer RU Fit, RYCE
Alondra Ortiz Najera: RYCE, Multi Cultural Club, Hispanic Cultural Club, Co-President RU Hearts, Regents First Peer Mentor 26-27
Romeo Perez: Football
Klownui Pler: Tri-Alpha, Hispanic Cultural Club, RU Fit, RU Hearts, MCM
Joel Sanchez: MCM, PsychEd, Hispanic Cultural Club, Treasurer
Hearts in Action, PASS 26-27, RYCE
Tevin Tennial: Football, MCM, Black Student Union
McKenzie Widell: Leading Ed

Alpha Alpha Alpha (Tri-Alpha) is a national honor society that recognizes the academic accomplishments of first-generation college students and whose mission is to celebrate their achievements, promote leadership development, and provide a network of support. Rockford University–alongside ten other colleges and universities in the state of Illinois–has the distinct honor of being home to a chapter of the Tri-Alpha Honor Society. Dr. Joel Lynch, Chair of the Psychology Dept. and Jessica Morris of SSP serve as the chapter advisors.
On November 3, 2025, during National First-Generation College Celebration week, Rockford University proudly inducted its first class into the Nu Rho chapter of Alpha Alpha Alpha. The ceremony, held in Maddox Theatre, welcomed a total of 60 members, including 33 students, 22 faculty and staff, 4 alumni and 1 honorary member. This milestone event celebrated the achievements and resilience of first-generation scholars at Rockford University. We are incredibly proud of the students who were inducted and honored for their dedication and academic success. The Spring induction welcomed an additional 43 students and 4 members of RU’s faculty and staff.

Carlie Buestch President
Major:
Elementary Education



Jovanni Alvarez Vice President/Treasurer
Major:
Healthcare Administration

Veronica McLean Secretary/Historian
Major: English & Secondary

Education


Dominique
Campbell Spring ‘17
BA in Physical Education, minor in Health Education Masters in Management Communications

Jared Johnson Spring ‘19
BS in Physical Education with a concentration in Sports Management

Zachary Cooper Spring ‘17
BS in Physical Education, minor in K-12 Education with Teaching Licensure

Jamaal Ray Fall ‘19
BS in Sports Management

Malik Johnson Spring ‘21
BS in Computer Science with a minor in Business Administration

Edel Morales Spring ‘21
BS in Exercise Science

Cristan Newton Fall ‘18
BS in Computer Science

Joshua Davis Spring ‘20
BS in Computer Science

Ajibola (Michael) Oke-Diran Spring ‘18
BS in Business Administration and Marketing

Jeremiah Camphor Spring ‘21
BS in Computer Science with a concentration in

Dallas Brown Spring ‘22
BS in Kinesiology
Jesus Campos
Spring ‘22
BS in Kinesiology, minor in Business Administration
Justin Ewing Spring ‘19
BS in Physical Education

Christopher Hounnou Spring ‘21
BS in Biochemistry

Wesley Gray III
Spring ‘22
BS in Psychology, minor in Human Development


Dayshon Moore Spring ‘22
BS in Kinesiology
- Exercise Science

Mykal Brown Spring ‘23 BA Business Administration Masters in Business Administration ‘24
Carter-Grady Spring ‘23 BA in Kinesiology

Emani
Johnson Spring ‘23 BA in Kinesiology
BS Computer Science
Samuel Cade Spring ‘23
BS Political Science Masters in Business Administration ‘24






Spring ‘25 BS Business Administration
Marc Surpris
Fall ‘23
BS in Accounting

Spring ‘25 BS Marketing

Julian Santa Fall ‘23
BS in Nursing

BS Computer Science





Nursing




Administration

Da’Quan McIntosh Spring ‘25 Degree: Accounting


Elementary Education




Kyle Reed Spring
Degree: Middle Grades Education
Check out our Regents First Inagural Graduation video


Dr. Karen Walker, Dean of Student Support Programming MCM, Regents First, & Regents P.A.W.S Program Founder
Our Student Support Programming options provide students with transformative knowledge and experiences critical to ensure college retention and completion. Our list of Men of Confidence Mentorship (MCM), Regents First, and Regents P.A.W.S. program participants and graduates continues to grow each year. Since its launch in 2016 the MCM Program has seen over 30 participants walk across the stage at graduation. Regents First continues to achieve stellar retention rates and as the academic year comes to an end, the program has supported 111 students since Fall 2021. Our newest program, Regents P.A.W.S. is completing its inaugural year and on track to make a positive impact on student athlete retention and graduation rates. Our support team experiences great joy observing our program participants move closer to graduation. May we each continue to support our growing and diverse student population to increase college graduation rates for our young men, first-generation college students and athletes at Rockford University.
Damian Evans Associate Dean of Student Support Programming
As I complete my first year in Student Support Programming, I have had a remarkable experience with the students participating in Regents First, Regents P.A.W.S., and the Men of Confidence mentoring program. Watching the participants of each program challenge themselves to do and be better students, athletes, and members of the Rockford University community has been and continues to be an incredible experience. Students have had some challenges, and their grit and resilience has shown that they are more than capable of academic and professional success. As a Proud First-Generation academician myself, I am elated to learn of each of their individual successes and their plans to be great in their personal and professional futures.


Jessica Morris Student Support Coach and Mentoring Coordinator
As an RU alum, I love seeing the different ways that the campus has evolved since my Undergraduate years, particularily in first-gen support. The growth of the Regents First program and the addition of the TriAlpha National Honor Society for first-generation college students proudly states that Rockford University is an institution that not only supports, but celebrates, its’ first-gen population.
As Regents First completes its fifth year, I can truly say that these students represent all of the best parts of RU. Watching the Regents First students step out of their comfort zones and take positions of leadership on campus, or learn how to advocate for themselves, or bounce back after a rough start to the semester, is a constant source of joy and pride to those of us who work with these students. My favorite moments of my day are when I walk into the Regents First Suite and see students from all cohorts gathering and enjoying the community that Regents First brings.
Fatima Mohamed Student Support Specialist & Event Coordinator
Having earned both my bachelor's and master's degrees from Rockford University, my connection to this campus and its community is deeply personal. My professional path within the university began during a twoyear role as a Graduate Assistant for Student Support Programming, where I focused on guiding freshman cohorts through their critical first year of college. Today, I am honored to serve as a staff member in the roles of Student Support Specialist and Event Coordinator. It has been a profound privilege to remain a part of our students' collective journeys across all programs; transitioning from working closely with freshmen to now supporting our second through fourth-year students as they navigate their upperclassman years. Witnessing their growth and being a constant resource in their academic and personal success is truly an honor.


Kennedy Gaddis Graduate Assistant
Serving as Graduate Assistant for Student Support Programming over the past two years has been an incredibly meaningful experience. I am truly grateful for the opportunity to work closely with students across
all programs, including witnessing and being inducted into the inaugural Tri Alpha cohort. I extend my sincere appreciation to the entire SSP team for the growth, support, and lasting memories I have gained. As I complete my MBA and move into the next stage of my professional journey, I will carry the lessons and experiences from SSP with me. for the program before graduating with my Bachelors of Science in Kinesiology, concentrated in Sports Management. Now I’m pursuing my MBA while also being involved with the Men of Confidence Mentorship program and helping first year males develop confidence and leadership skills. The continuence of the ‘Chop It Up’ series and the MCM podcast, combined with the progress and successes of the first year participants have been a rewarding part of this journey.

Daryan
Donadio
Graduate Assistant
Being a Graduate this year has really been a full circle moment. I w the inaugural Regents First Cohort and served as a


















Check out our portal page!


Student Support Programming is located in the lower level of Starr Science
Suite Locations
Regents First: Starr 108B Men of Confidence Mentorship: Starr 111

For more information please contact: Studentsupportprograms@rockford.edu
