By Dee Longfellow
Like most events since the pandemic began, Elmhurst University’s annual President’s Breakfast had to take a year off in 2021.
But with COVID cases stabilized and folks itching to get back to normal, more than 100 business, community and political leaders from throughout the area gathered at the university to hear Dr. Troy D. VanAken’s “State of the University” address.
Following the invocation delivered by university chaplain Rev. H. Scott Matheney, university senior communications director Desiree Chen introduced Mayor Scott Levin, after recognizing other officials in attendance.
In his comments, Levin noted that 1871 was not only Elmhurst University’s sesquicentennial year, but also was the 150th anniversary of the Great Chicago Fire.
“That fire helped [the city of] Elmhurst grow, as people migrated further west,” he said. “The university and the city have grown together at the same time. We are proud of our close association.”
Levin praised the students who volunteer for various city programs such the Youth Commission.
“As a matter of fact, there would not be a St. Patrick’s Day parade in Elmhurst, were it not for the 126 volunteers from Elmhurst University,” Levin said, drawing applause.
“Last time we met was March of 2020,” Dr. VanAken began. “A week later, classes were suspended due to COVID.”
He noted that it was after that time that the college had become a university and changed its name.
“So, THIS is the official FIRST President’s Breakfast for Elmhurst University,” he said, which brought forth cheers.
VanAken went on to recognize outstanding benefactors, contributors and supporters in the room. He then shared highlights of the past year:
• Approximately 43 percent of the students at Elmhurst University (EU) are first generation.
• About 30 percent of the student body is LatinX.
• EU has 165 International students from 50 countries around the globe.
• EU has $1.5 million in scholarships to help students who plan to become STEM teachers.
• EU set an ambitious goal to raise $50 million this year; $44 million has been given so far.
• There are plans for a 25,000-square-foot addition on campus.
• EU has a new video scoreboard and plans to consider upgrades to its athletic facilities.
• EU will grow its endowment fund to have money in perpetuity for future generations.
Van Aken concluded his address by thanking Mayor Levin for the city’s support.
“Our success is dependent on the city’s success,” he said. “Look for our float in the parade this afternoon (referring to the St. Patrick’s Day parade that was held March 5.”
