End of an era: President Hal Wilde to retire after more than 21 years of service

Designed by Klariza Alvaran
Images are from NCC Archives and Chronicle file photos

North Central College President Hal Wilde recently announced his retirement, which is set for Dec. 31, 2012. After more than two decades with the college, Wilde has left a lasting legacy on the institution through his leadership and work, keeping the college’s mission in mind.

The Chronicle shares highlights of his time at the college thus far through a collection of photos and content from the college archives.

Dr. Wilde comes to Naperville

On March 25, 1991, Harold R. Wilde was appointed as the ninth president in North Central College history. Wilde left his post as vice president for external affairs with Beloit College in Beloit, Wis., to join North Central’s administration and set a goal for the College “to be the premiere institution of its type in the nation.”

Said one student member of the advisory committee that aided in the selection of the college’s new president: “He was my choice from the start. I’m very pleased with the decision.”

Reshaping the campus landscape:

Construction and renovation

Throughout Wilde’s time so far — especially in recent years, he has played a vital role in the decision-making for the acquisition, renovation, and construction of buildings to address the needs of the campus.

In 2004, the college acquired the old Grace Evangelical Church on Ellsworth Street, which was renovated to serve as the fine arts building now called Meiley-Swallow Hall. Kiekhofer Hall received renovations to hold classrooms and additional offices. The old arts building on Jefferson Avenue was repurposed to use as the College’s bookstore, moving out of its old location on the basement of the White Activities Center.

With regard to newly constructed buildings, the college dedicated the Wentz Concert Hall in late 2008. It has since garnered rave review for its acoustics. Not long after in 2009, the college completed construction of the Res/Rec Center to address the college’s need of additional housing to accommodate the growing number of resident students at North Central.

Hosting a Sesquicentennial

celebration to remember

When Wilde made an initial announcement to the Board of Trustees regarding his retirement, Wilde made it clear that he wished to remain with the college through its Sesquicentennial, according to a statement he released to the college. Formal festivities for the Sesquicentennial, which include the Convocation at the Sesquicentennial and the “11.11.11” homecoming dinner/dance, took place in November 2011, and Wilde was present for virtually all events.

Beyond the festivities involved with the Sesquicentennial, Wilde also stated that he would maintain his commitment to raising funds associated with Sesquicentennial plans prior to officially retiring.

A familiar, friendly face at North Central

It is not unusual for students and other members of the campus community to see Wilde  when he takes a walk — or bike ride — through campus. Campus ambassadors often point out to visitors that Wilde may frequently be seen sporting a North Central College baseball cap.

Wilde also reaches out to the student body by recognizing athletic teams and groups through “Pizza with the Prez” in the basement of his home.

A lifelong Cardinal athletics fan and supporter, Wilde can recount the details from some of the most dramatic victories from the College’s storied history in sports.

Notably, Wilde did not shy away from greeting each of the 598 graduates from the class 2010 in spite of the recovery process following a hand injury. Although he was unable to offer a handshake, Wilde gave fist bumps to each member of the graduating class present during commencement.