Elmhurst College president welcomes new students - personally

Elmhurst College President Troy D. VanAken recently hit the road to surprise and congratulate a number of high school seniors who had just been accepted to the college.

Roughly 30 students at Willowbrook High School and Elk Grove High School got a visit from VanAken and the school's mascot, Victor E. Bluejay.

The students also were presented with a "Bluejay Box" containing their letter of acceptance, a scholarship offer, an Elmhurst cap and more.

"We're delighted to offer you your formal acceptance to the college and are proud to support you in your educational endeavors," VanAken told the students.

Vice President for Admission Timothy H. Ricordati visited Wheeling High School and Round Lake High School to welcome another 30 newly admitted students.

Scholarship offers totaling more than $4.2 million over four years were awarded to the students at the four high schools; all were admitted to Elmhurst through its Early Action program.

At Willowbrook, about 17 seniors were called out of their classes to receive their early acceptance letters. Several parents also attended, as well as Elmhurst College alumni who work at the high school as teachers and staff.

"We really enjoy getting out and congratulating our newly admitted students," VanAken said. "This has been a great way for us to share in their excitement."

Willowbrook High School senior Jessica Soto of Villa Park said Elmhurst was the first school she applied to.

"I like that the campus is small and inviting, and I really want to get to know my professors well, so I believe Elmhurst will be a great fit for that," said Soto, who plans to study nursing.

"Elmhurst was my No. 1 choice," said Katherine Pettinger of Lombard, who plans to study elementary education. "The first time I took a tour of the campus, I loved it. It just felt like home."