Since 1894 — before the city around it was even there – North Park University has been an anchor of Christian higher education in northwest Chicago. Today, the university’s president, Mary K. Surridge, left, sees the school emerging as the model for Christian higher education in 21^st Century America.

“Three distinctive characteristics help distinguish us from other universities,” Surridge says. “We’re distinguished by our Christian identity, and deeply rooted in faith. Second, we are centered in this world-class city of Chicago, a competitive advantage with opportunities that are limitless for education and career development. And third, we are distinguished and blessed by the rich tapestry of a thoroughly intercultural student community. Our student population has no majority group, and identifies as nearly 50 percent students of color. That is a strength for us that is unparalleled.”

“In my view,” Surridge says, “one of our Christian imperatives is that we prepare an intercultural, diverse student body to serve in the city — that we help students find their calling and equip them to use their vocational gifts for a better world.”