CHICAGO, IL (April 23, 2009) \u2013 More than 300 alumni of North Park Academy gathered for a reunion over the weekend, during which they celebrated the school\u2019s history and its impact on their lives and future generations.
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\nThe high school opened in Chicago in 1894 and closed in 1969. Faculty and students of classes dating back to 1935 attended. The weekend schedule incorporated a variety of activities including tours of the city and campus, worship, and a concert by the university Gospel Choir.<\/p>\n
One of the highlights came during a luncheon on Saturday when John Douglass, a member of the North Park University Board of Trustees, announced a new scholarship for students attending North Park Theological Seminary. The scholarship will be named in honor of Ron Magnuson, who was the Academy chaplain from 1960-1969. He also is a long-time Evangelical Covenant Church pastor.<\/p>\n
Douglas described the scholarship as \u201ca meaningful way to say thank you.\u201d He informed Magnuson earlier in the day about the honor.<\/p>\n
\u201cHoly cow!\u201d Magnuson said in an interview following the announcement. \u201cIt left me speechless. I never anticipated it.\u201d<\/p>\n
Former faculty member Betty Nelson told of \u201cthat sad day\u201d in March 1969 when everyone gathered for a school assembly and heard the surprising news that the school would be closing.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt was a day of anger, of disbelief, much comment, many tears, and understanding,\u201d Nelson said.<\/p>\n
She recalled that sometime during the night, people who were never identified painted the class numbers for the years 1969-1972 on a large rock in front of Old Main, where all of the classes were held. \u201cIt gave us new hope,\u201d Nelson said.<\/p>\n
Nelson asked if any of the painters were in the room. The mystery of that night was solved when Wes Lindahl, the current dean of the School of Business and Nonprofit Management, stood up.<\/p>\n
Lindahl, who was the president of the class of 1972, said he and the presidents of the other classes painted the rock. \u201cWe just wanted to stake our name,\u201d he explained.<\/p>\n
Graduate Carol Economou said the school was as important for the students\u2019 spiritual lives as well as their academics. \u201cIt was the focus on religion that really made us who we are today.\u201d<\/p>\n
Anyone wishing to donate to the scholarship fund in honor of Magnuson should contact the development office at 773-244-6200.<\/p>\n